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This quiet courtyard took its name from the anatomy theatre which existed here as of 1368. In 1671, a College of Anatomy was also established over the bridge in Campo San Giacomo dell’Orio, now an isolated building with a pretty vine-covered trellis.

Painted images over a lace-trimmed mantlepiece.

This former osteria is now a trendy restaurant that serves memorable seafood in a pretty “hidden courtyard” (corte sconta ). Don’t miss pincia , the local bread pudding, for dessert. The house wine is also wonderful. Booking ahead is essential.

The newly restructured Malibran Theatre in this photogenic square was erected on the site of the Polo family abode, where famous 13th-century explorer Marco was born (see Marco Polo). Other early Gothic buildings remain, their timber overhangs set off by bright red geraniums. Along with the adjoining bridge, the square was named in honour of the explorer whose marvellous stories about the Orient in his book Il Milione continue to inspire generations of travellers.

Now occupied by the university architecture faculty, these former cotton mills are a fine example of re-using the city’s derelict industrial buildings. The mills and their 1,000 employees were active from 1883 to 1960.

The Virgin’s protection has been implored here against plague and enemy attacks.

Contemporary light fittings in bold Italian designs and a great selection of coloured candles.

Illegal in Venice itself though you’ll see kids zooming around. Rent a bike on the Lido from Bruno Lazzari.

Reservations are essential at this sophisticated restaurant, where the owners base the day’s menu on what is fresh at the market. They might have pappardelle con ostriche e zafferano (flat ribbon pasta with oysters and saffron), or moleche fritte con polenta (fried soft-shelled crab with cornmeal).