St. Mark’s Square area is one of the mostfamous places in Venice, but you can discover hidden gems that are found notfar from there. Your first stop will be the “Liberia Acqua Alta”, theself-proclaimed “most beautiful bookstore in the world”, which is composed of anumber of rooms stacked wall-to-wall with books, magazines, maps and othermementoes. However, due to Venice’s constant flooding, these picturesque pilesare all placed inside bathtubs, waterproof bins, and even a full-size gondola.The store’s whimsically cramped atmosphere is even reflected in their “fireescape” which is simply a door leading directly out into the canal. The storehas also become home to a few stray cats which escape the rising tides byhanging out on top of the stacks. After a pleasant walk, you will head to afine chocolate shop where all your senses will be treated in this world ofdelicacies. Together with the chocolatier, you will be able to taste hercreations and learn more about the history of chocolate and spices. Anothergood reason for stopping here is the chance to try the Goldoni hot chocolate,with its traditional Venetian recipe that contains neither milk nor sugar.
