Considered one of Europe’s most romantic cities, Venice’s stunning architecture and warren-like network of medieval streets are situated on 117 islands in a marshy lagoon in the Adriatic sea. The birthplace of Vivaldi, Venice was an important centre of commerce and art between the 13th and 17th centuries. It still hosts cultural and artistic events such as the current biennale of contemporary art and the annual carnival, during which masked revellers transform the city.