The limited time cruise passengers generally have for shore leave while their vessel stays in the port may seem at odds with the exploratory spirit of the ‘traveler’. It would seem that such a brief window of opportunity implies rapidity, causing shore explorers to hastily navigate through the city like rushed ‘tourists’… but hold that thought! It’s feasible to explore Venice as though you’re a native despite the time constraints: all you need is a ‘Friend’ guiding you! Allow an authentic Venetian to greet you and lead you to your desired location in the most straightforward and rapid manner. Let me provide you an introduction to this city, offering you the finest advice to fully appreciate it, including suggestions on navigating around, dining, shopping and more. A Venice shore excursion isn’t complete without visiting Saint Mark’s Square, understandably, but my suggestion would be to get there by taking the lesser-known paths, the ones your fellow travelers will probably overlook by immediately hopping onto the shuttle or blindly trailing the yellow signposts. Live as the Venetians do!