Venice, the 5 best alternatives for National Geographic
Venice is a beloved city all over the world. Famous for its canals, the narrow and poetic streets, the art and beauty that pop out at every corner. Precisely for these reasons the city is undergoing the pressure ofexcessive tourism that has clogged it for years now. The situation is so dire that local authorities plan to introduce an entrance fee for tourists next year in an effort to reduce the number of visitors. But what if you also visit other cities?
Alternative cities in Venice according to National Geographic
To say that there are substitutes in Venice is a stretch, no city is like it. But second National Geographic the romantic atmosphere of the Venetian dream streets can also be found elsewhere. The magazine was therefore inspired by the “floating city” to find other beautiful locations to visit, without crowds around.
The town of Chioggia
In the belt of the Venetian lagoon, there is Chioggia. A panorama different from the Venetian one, but equally fascinating. Chioggia also has a network of channels, winding through the city and spanned by pretty bridges. The romantic and timeless atmosphere of Venice, however, gives way to the panache. Fishermen, cars, people strolling across the bridges… Here you can enjoy the real life of the lagoon.
The beautiful Genoa
At first glance it might not seem like that, but there are several similarities between Venice and Genoa. From the bustling port of Genoa and a labyrinthine tangle of medieval alleys, full of hidden artistic treasures that are best experienced when you come across them by accident. Large palaces, built for the Renaissance nobility, now house shops and bars. While strolling it is possible to stumble upon large balustrades, neoclassical columns and balconies built to overlook the water, which shine in the distance. Sounds a bit Venetian, doesn’t it?
The warm Palermo
For an absolute immersion in coastal culture, in a city of strong personality like that of Venice, it is Palermo the right place. In every street, in every corner, there is culture that exudes from every pore. This is a place whose history is as layered as that of the Venetian palaces. The influence of the former Arab and Norman kings is still felt: the food sweet and spicy comes from the first and much of the architecture from the second. Sure, there is a different kind of atmosphere, Palermo is more chaotic, noisy, exuberant and warm, but it will steal your heart.
Winter in Parma
Winter is when Venice is most romantic. The fog comes from the Adriatic and swirls around the city, leaving a rarefied and fairytale atmosphere .. The same goes for Parma. The river Po, on whose banks the city is built, sends great waves of mist and thin fog, making the city a postcard view, also Parma has a great story, with amazing sites and works that take visitors directly to the past. Then there is the Parma Cathedral, with two sculpted lions supporting the front door, or Palazzo della Pilotta, a wonderfully eerie castle-palace complex, abandoned before its completion.
Trieste and the waterfront
A first sight, Trieste it appears as a more modern Venice. With a spectacular square on the waterfront and even a Grand Canal, which cuts through the center of the city. In other words, what makes Trieste special, however, is the quiet. A quiet city with adelightful architecturea Roman amphitheater, hidden behind the main square, and a medieval fortress overlooking the city e seafront beautiful to walk around. what you need for a visit full of discoveries and relaxation.
There is no one like Venice, but there are many other cities that are worth a visit and a corner of the heart. Beautiful, romantic, overlooking the sea, full of history and incredible buildings. This year we can replace Venice and avoid going to the crushing grandeur.