British Airways fly from London Heathrow to Venice. Flights plus two nights' hotel start at £124pp. A world of what if is waiting. Discover and book your perfect city break here.
London has its fair share of snazzy department stores, sure. Sadly, it looks like Venice has bested us on that front – by opening one in a literal palace. Fondaco dei Tedeschi, a palazzo near the famous Rialto bridge, was originally built in 1228, and has served many lives – including as a customs hall, and, er, Mussolini’s post office. But it’s recently been converted into a temple to fashion, stocking over 300 luxury brands from Gucci to Valentino. Those with modest budgets can get in on the fun, too – as well as a highly Instagrammable café, it has a roof terrace offering fine views across the watery city, and a palatial courtyard – both of which are free to enter all year round. Sounds like a right royal day out.
Flo Wales Bonner