Everywhere you look in Venice there's an archetypal romantic scene: a short bridge arching over a canal, a gondola gliding by, the moon reflecting off the water. Its winding, narrow streets can be eerily quiet and mysterious, particularly on a foggy night. Without a city's usual traffic noise, you can hear the laughter of children from your window as well as the enigmatic sound of footsteps seemingly just around the corner. Set on islands connected by bridges, Venice's main street -- the Grand Canal -- is traversed by an assortment of watercraft, from rowboats and water buses to barges piled high with cargo or garbage. During Carnival (10 days in late February or March), its waterfront is lit by torches at night, as colorfully masked and costumed revelers overrun the city's ancient palaces and public squares. No wonder Venice is one of the most visited cities on the planet. Within this charming city is a plethora of world-famous museums and artistic treasures. Don't miss highlights such as the Basilica of San Marco (with its spectacular Golden Altar and St. Mark's treasure), the infamous Palazzo Ducale (the Doge's Palace) and its romantic Bridge of Sighs (where prisoners about to enter the dark jail on the other side would stop to enjoy one last glimpse of the beautiful city) or a visit to the fascinating glass factories. Pick a few museums, such as the Gallerie dell'Accademia (art of the 14th-18th centuries) or the Peggy Guggenheim Collection (20th-century art). But just because you'll be bumping into thousands of other visitors there, don't be fooled into thinking it's just a museum of architecture and art. We were delighted to see Venetians chatting with friends in the campi (squares) and sharing a bottle of wine in the osterie. It remains a treasure to be savored -- and not just by lovers.