(Calle Carminati, 5641 Castello, tel: 041 523 5500). It's hard to pass by the shop of Giovanna Zanella without stopping to eye up the stylish footwear in the window. The designer specialises in bespoke handmade shoes for men and women. www.giovannazanella.it

Exquisite engraving on glass is the speciality of Murano-born Luigi Camozzo, who also continues to experiment with all sorts of other glass techniques. Visit him at his studio-shop on the famous glass-making island (3 Fondamenta Venier, Murano, tel: 041 736 875).

Don't miss seeing the incredible number of exotic-looking creatures on sale at the Rialto fishmarket. Restaurant chefs and Venetian housewives have counted on the freshness of the seafood here for around 700 years (Campo della Pescaria, mornings only).

If you're planning a picnic, visit one of the Nave De Oro stores where wine is sold from huge demijohns. Don't forget to take a container - any sort of bottle will do (locations include 3664 Campo Santa Margherita, Dorsoduro and 5786B Calle del Mondo Nuovo, Castello).