For some reason too, the light is unique, particularly in the early morning and late afternoon. Combine this early morning or evening light with the ancient buildings and bustling canals, and you have a melancholy beauty of great sadness and great joy that is impossible to explain in words.
These photos of Jim's come as close as anything I have seen to capturing the essence of Venice.
It isn't only Venice that Jim has captured so well, and I'm sure you'll enjoy his photos of a few other stunning Italian places too.
A little about Jim before we get onto the photos: Jim Brandano is a photographer who now lives in Florida and runs a photography business with his wife. If you'd like to learn more about Jim, then click here.
On a radiant summer's day, the Grand Canal of Venice transforms into a breathtaking spectacle of shimmering light and lively activity. Golden sunlight dances across a surface of glimmering reflections. It's as if the Grand Canal itself has donned a splendid cloak of diamonds, each ripple sparkling, alive with light, energy, and possibilities under the warm Mediterranean sun.
Boats of all shapes and sizes dart up and down. The rhythmic chugging of boat engines and the soft lapping of water against ancient stone walls create a symphony of sound while gondolas slowly glide by in velvety silence.
Alongside the water's edge, palaces in hues of pastel gaze upon the timeless scenes below, blushing red with all they've seen as the sun slowly descends towards the horizon.
Amalfi, on the Amalfi coast. For more stories, tips, and photos about this most beautiful coastline, visit our guide here. If it is a beach you're after, then our "Beaches of the Amalfi Coast" is just the answer.
Planning a Christmas in Italy? I have everything you need - advice on Italian Christmas traditions, insider tips, weather, great accommodation picks and...
Discover the enchantment of Cannaregio, Venice. Meander its historic alleys, savor local flavors, and uncover the soul of this authentic Venetian district.
If the hustle and bustle of the usual Venice attractions gets too much, the flamingo-filled Southern Lagoon is a good place to escape to for a few days.
The Rialto Bridge is the most beautiful bridge in Venice and perhaps the world. There are some very weird secrets surrounding it. Read on to discover them....
Venice in Summer is wonderful. Colorful flower boxes add a splash of red while the gondolas ply their way up canals, sparkling aquamarine in the summer sunshine
Getting lost in Venice is the way to discover the amazing secrets and soul of this city. Join us on an adventure down the secret alleys and forgotten canals
The Jewish or Hebrew ghetto of Venice was the first ghetto for Jews in Europe and was the place where the word first originated. Read more in our guide.
Easter in Venice is wonderful, there's a special feeling in the air and Easter is still celebrated in the traditional way. Be a part of it - click for more.
Why visit Venice and the Veneto? This is the Italy of the imagination...except it's real. This is the Italy you've seen in the movies....but you're the star.
Castello in Venice is a get away from the theme park feel of St. Marks Square. In some ways this is small town Italy, old ladies gossiping in the squares and...
More Travel Tips:
Book your tickets to museums and other attractions in advance on Tiqets.com
Book your accommodation. Booking.com and Agoda help you to book accommodation in advance
Book your excursions. Wherever you go, make the most of your time! Excursions with professional guides will help you do this - choose a location and the best option for yourself on Viator or Getyourguide
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