January 2013
Officially lasting from 26 January to 12 February this year, the Venice carnival should be experienced at least once in a lifetime. There are extraordinary costumes, fascinating side-events and an ice-rink, open daily in Campo San Polo.

October 2012
The Carlo Scarpa-Venini exhibition is the first of an ongoing initiative focusing on glassmaking in the 20th-21st centuries. An accomplished designer and architect, Scarpa was art director for the Murano-based Venini glassworks between 1932 and 1947, and 300 of the works produced during this period are on show here (until 29 November; Fondazione Cini, Isola di San Giorgio Maggiore; cini.it).

April 2013
The Venetian island of Sant'Erasmo is famous for its purple artichokes, and spring is the season to enjoy them at their best. There's an artichoke festival held every May, and the peaceful island atmosphere makes a relaxing change from busy central Venice.

January 2013
Leave the crowds behind and spend an evening in the relaxed bars and eateries of the Cannaregio canalsides. Stroll down Fondamenta della Misericordia and degli Ormesini, and see the sunset from Fondamenta San Girolamo.

January 2013
Visit the renaissance city of Vicenza (45 minutes by train) to be inspired by the graceful Palladian palazzi. The views over the city are superb from the Rotonda monument, one of Palladio's most famous.

October 2012
The medieval walled town of Castelfranco Veneto is just an hour by train from Venice. Visit the 12th-century castle, walk round the sturdy walls and see the birthplace of Renaissance artist Giorgione. This is the area of Prosecco wine, so try a glass while you're here.