Insider’s Venice

✩ La Biennale di Venezia – Architecture

A private behind the scenes guided tour led by an artist-guide. This tour, featuring immersive cultural experiences, offers a memorable exploration of Venice’s architectural landscape—from historical landmarks to contemporary masterpieces—designed to enrich your understanding and reignite your passion for design.

The 19th International Architecture Exhibition was curated by the architect and engineer Carlo Ratti.

« Architecture has always been a response to a hostile climate. From the earliest “primitive hut,” human design has been led by the need for shelter and survival, driven by optimism: our creations have always strived to bridge the gap between a harsh environment and the safe, livable spaces we require.» Carlo Ratti stated. «Today, that dynamic approach is being taken to a new level – as climate becomes less forgiving. […] Adaptation demands a fundamental shift in our practice. This year’s Exhibition Intelligens. Natural. Artificial. Collective. invites different types of intelligence to work together to rethink the built environment. The very Latin title Intelligens contains the word gens (“people”) – inviting us to experiment beyond today’s limited focus on AI and digital technologies. »

✩ Cocktail dinner

One evening in a classic Venetian bar with a Cicchetti toast.

Venice’s reputation as a tourist hotspot often overshadows the truly memorable gastronomic experiences there are to be had in the historic center. The city’s Bacari (“wine bars”) are amongst the most Venetian of traditions and are a trademark of its intricate and unique history. Serving a variety of Cichetti (the Italian equivalent to tapas), and local wines called Ombra (a small glass in Venetian dialect), Bacari are integral to the fabric of the city beyond its tourist-tailored culture.

Locals who work in the historic center will drop in for Cichetti and an aperitivo pre-dinner at the end of their working day, but these are also great spots for lunch on the go. They are favored by students and young Venetians as social hubs once the sun has gone down.

✩ Venice film tour

Discover key locations that served as inspiration to world renowned film directors. 

There are countless movies set in Venice: Death in Venice by Luchino Visconti, Othello by Orson Welles, Casanova starring the late Heath Ledger, or James Bond in Casino Royal. Also, The Merchant of Venice, The Tourist with Angelina Jolie and Johnny Depp, and Everyone Says I Love You by Woody Allen.

✩ Film critic luncheon

Meeting with a film industry critic or professional,  who will reveal some of the Mostra Festival secrets.