Autumn is the best time to visit Italy. The tourist season is over, and there are fewer crowds and lower prices. Venice has been one of the world’s most desired tourist destinations for ten centuries. It should be on every senior traveler’s bucket list.

The first sights when visitors typically come ashore in the cruise ship’s boat are on the entrance to the Grand Canal. It’s a thrill to glide along rows and rows of magnificent waterfront Renaissance homes and churches.

The most visited spot is the Piazza San Marco (St. Mark’s Square), where tourists gather to feed the pigeons and get photos and video for folks at home. Nearby is the Basilica of San Marco and Bell Tower (Campanile).

On the side of the square nearest the canal is the Doge's (Chief Judge) Palace. Nearby is the Bridge of Sighs. Walking over it provides emotions of how sentenced prisoners felt when on their way to years of confinement.

There are many souvenir and style shops along the Piazza and throughout the center city area. Spend time at the Venier dei Leoni Palace to view the Guggenheim art collection. In addition to works by Renaissance artists, there are many by Matisse, Van Gogh, Renoir and Picasso.

You shouldn’t leave Venice without experiencing a traditional gondola ride. The scenic route through the canals provide many moments for making great photos and video.