Ca' Rezzonico

"Museum of the 18th Century (Ca' Rezzonico) Go back in time to Casanova's Venice at this perfectly preserved palazzo. Built in the heyday of Venice's decadent 18th century for the Rezzonico family, it was also, at one time, the residence of poet Robert Browning (who died here). In the 1930s the palazzo passed into public hands and the museum was founded. Inside, you'll find the gilded remains of a culture that was fueled by sex, pleasure and scandal, and it's easy to imagine yourself consorting with the glamorous ghosts of Venice's Baroque past. The gift shop on the ground floor is a great place to find unique souvenirs as well as rare art books on the era."

"This 18th-century palazzo on Venice’s Grand Canal came into existence when one of the city’s old noble families commissioned the best architects of the day to build a dream home. Now Ca' Rezzonico serves as an icon of that era, and each room houses a trove of opulent historical and artistic relics across three floors. The ground floor boasts paintings, sculptures, and 18th-century furniture beneath a frescoed ceiling. The second floor is dedicated to the famed Venetian painters Pietro Longhi and Giandomenico Tiepolo. And the third floor is home to a replica 18th-century pharmacy." - Jenna Scatena

"Zoom out. What’s this place all about? This 18th-century palazzo on Venice’s Grand Canal came into existence when one of the city’s old noble families commissioned the best architects of the day to build a dream home. Now Ca' Rezzonico serves as an icon of that era, and each room houses a trove of opulent historical and artistic relics. Ye shall know them by their permanent collection: How was it? The collections are displayed throughout all three floors of the palazzo. The ground floor boasts paintings, sculptures, and 18th-century furniture beneath a frescoed ceiling. The second floor is dedicated to the famed Venetian painters Pietro Longhi and Giandomenico Tiepolo. And the third floor is home to a replica 18th-century pharmacy, complete with Murano glass jars and authentic mortars. What did you make of the crowd? Patrons here, having already ticked off Doge’s Palace and Museo Correr, are seeking a deeper immersion into Venetian history. On the practical tip, how were the facilities? While it’s easy to get turned around in this opulent, fully outfitted museum, the building is accessible. Any guided tours worth trying? There are two-hour guided tours in multiple languages. Gift shop: obligatory, inspiring—or skip it? The gift shop has a standard assortment of history and art books, jewelry, prints, and crafts by local artists. Is the café worth a stop, or should we just plan on going elsewhere? Ristòart Café, in the museum's portico, offers a selection of fresh Italian food, including vegan and gluten-free options, Italian wines, and twice-monthly Sunday brunch. Any advice for the time- or attention-challenged? Two hours is the best way to get the full experience, but you can whiz through in half that time. If you’re really in a pinch, beeline up the grand staircase to the pharmacy." - Jenna Scatena