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VENICE
Reveal the secrets of the floating city.
RECOMMENDED
MAY - JUNE
IDEAL LENGTH
6 NIGHTS
FLIGHT TIME FROM LONDON
2.5HRS
AN INSIDER'S VIEW OF HIDDEN VENICE
Over seven days in the enlightening company of acclaimed architect, author and lifelong Venetian citizen Francesco da Mosto, The Luminaire unveils the layered history of Venice and the more recent impacts of climate change on this floating city. Through privileged and rarely-granted access to restoration projects, artisan workshops and private homes, the secrets of Venice are revealed. Step behind the scenes and meet the leading experts in their fields, offering thought-provoking insights into the city’s cultural and artistic life. Learn about the painstaking work of restorers dedicated to preserving the endangered architecture of Venice and experience a new and intimate bond with the floating city.
DAY 1
VENICE THROUGH NATIVE EYES
Home for the week is a 17th-century palazzino overlooking the Grand Canal, where host Francesco da Mosto welcomes his guests with an aperitivo. Francesco, whose family has lived in Venice for 11 centuries, uncovers the rich history and culture of the city, as experienced by his ancestors. Sample the cuisine and the wines of the Veneto region this evening at a candlelight dinner on the canal-front terrace, prepared by a Michelin-starred chef.
DAY 2
A WATERFRONT CITY IN PERIL
Francesco brings his substantial knowledge to illuminate the architectural treasures of Venice. Alongside a private tour of the Doge’s Palace, Francesco opens the door to his own family home, completed in 1602. Following lunch at a traditional trattoria, a rare invitation is extended to visit a private architectural restoration site. Venice was once the pre-eminent trading port in the Mediterranean, but could the former strength of this floating city be the cause of its uncertain future?
DAY 3
TRAVELLING THROUGH RENAISSANCE VENICE
Join an acclaimed art critic on a tour of carefully selected churches showcasing masterpieces of the Venetian Renaissance. Spend some time in the city’s oldest church and uncover the history behind works by Titian, Tintoretto and Bellini. This evening Francesco will share his extensive knowledge on a visit to the spiritual heart of Venice, the magnificent St Mark’s Basilica. Dinner follows, at an intimate local trattoria.
DAY 4
ART FROM THE INSIDE
Enjoy privileged access to an art conservation laboratory. Witness restorers at work and learn about the meticulous techniques used to repair and save the city’s precious artworks. Will seeing this delicate process ignite a keener appreciation for the endangered artistic fabric of Venice? The afternoon continues with a visit to the Gallerie dell’Accademia. This evening, an art historian leads a private tour of the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, offering a fresh perspective on modern art.
DAY 5
RELAX AND REFLECT
Explore Venice at your own pace today. A local Venetian family welcomes you into their home this evening. Join your hosts in their historic palazzo on the Grand Canal for dinner and good company.
DAY 6
DISCOVERING THE ANCIENT TRADES OF VENICE
Meet Francesco for an espresso at his favourite café before heading to Murano. Francesco, the city’s Ambassador of Glass, introduces you to a glassmaker for an interactive workshop visit. How do historical artisan trades continue to flourish today? Observe traditional winemaking methods at a vineyard, stopping for lunch at the estate’s Michelin starred restaurant. Learn about the challenges of cultivating vines on a flood plain and meet experts dedicated to preserving Venice’s rare vineyards.
DAY 7
A MUSICAL JOURNEY
Accompanied by a local expert, explore the world’s first Jewish ghetto, established in 1516. A reading of The Merchant of Venice is followed by a visit to a synagogue. Later, enjoy a classical music recital with Francesco. On a private tour of La Fenice Opera House, learn how Francesco took part in its reconstruction after a devastating fire, while the artistic director shares his creative influences. The evening ends with supper in a historic building which dates back to the 18th-century.
EXPERT
FRANCESCO DA MOSTO
Francesco da Mosto, whose family has called Venice home for a millennium, is an architect and historian who has been closely involved in the city’s vital ongoing conservation projects. Francesco shares his personal insights into the history and culture of the city and his thoughts on the future of its endangered heritage.
START PERSONALISING YOUR EXPERIENCE
We believe in the power of travel to nurture personal growth. Our goal is to explore and build upon the interests of our guests, while igniting newfound passions along the way.
From discovering the life of a classical composer with an acclaimed concert pianist, to unearthing treasures in Cairo with an archaeologist, our travel designers will create a personalised one-off journey, shaped by you.