I go to Venice off-peak in the winter when it’s quiet. Few things are more enchanting than the Grand Canal with a moody mist, but any season is special. Venice is a labyrinth of secrets with infinite layers to discover. For me, avoiding the touristic Rialto bridge is crucial to maintain that allure. I enjoy the Dorsoduro area—elegant, dreamy, and my pace.
Here are a few places that I visit every time.
Shops
This wonderful, unexpectedly modern shop is filled with handmade textiles—napkins, placemats, tea towels, linens, and a small selection of exacting clothes. I mentioned Stella in the last newsletter. She makes that great olive tote bag, and she collaborates with local artisans to craft intricate collections that feel authentic and unadorned.
I have dozens of velvet slippers, and Piedaterre makes my favorite, the Wilde. I've been collecting friulane all over Italy for years now. I like these because they feel the most substantial but with the comfort of traditional unstructured pairs. The original shop is a tiny jewel box near the fish market. There’s also a location in Campo Santo Stefano, a lovely square.
Gianni Basso Stampatore
If you're seeking an old-world letterpress to have custom note cards, business cards, and letters made, this place is for you. I loved receiving beautifully printed correspondence cards after the trip.
Keep reading with a 7-day free trial
Subscribe to CLEMENTINA to keep reading this post and get 7 days of free access to the full post archives.