Venice

I think I have to start a description of Venice by saying, Yes, it does look like that.  The first picture is of the iconic St Marks Square, the historic, and cultural center of Venice.  The large building to the right is the Doge's Palace - home to the Dukes or rulers of Venice, behind it is St Marks Basilica and St Marks Square, more pictures to come.   

From the top of St Marks Basilica looking out toward the lagoon 

In St Marks Square, the Basilica is just to the left of the bell tower 

If you think you will arrive in Venice by gondola, think again, most arrive by train, cruise ship (there were five mega cruise ships in port our second day there,) or by water bus from the mainland.