Italy: Venice
Venice is one of those cities with a romantic reputation that people dream of visiting on their honeymoon. But really, those starry-eyed people are morons.
Venice thrives on tourism, yet hates tourists. There isn't much to do in the city aside from getting lost and looking at pretty buildings. The buildings are quite lovely, so if you happen to be in the area, spend a few hours admiring them... but don't go out of your way.
Yes, there are canals everywhere and no cars are allowed. Water taxis and gondolas are the only form of transportation. All of the Venetians must be pissed because the streets are so narrow they can't possibly get any new furniture into their homes. They have to be using the same shit that there ancestors' ancestors created. We assume they can't haul refrigerators up there either, so they must be very wealthy to afford eating at Venetian restaurants... and very clever to remember how to find their way home.
If you're looking for something to do, as soon as you get off the train check your luggage and start looking for the Basilica di San Marco (a cathedral) in Piazza San Marco. There are signs all over Venice and often they point in multiple directions. By the time you finally find it, you'll have seen the whole city.
Nightlife is dead in Venice. Hostels all have early curfews, which is fine since there's nothing to do anyway. For a hipper scene, take the train to Venice Mestre (mainland) or head to the beach. In February there's a crazy carnival where everyone strolls the city in masks and looks at each other. Sadly, it too is dead by nightfall.
We recommend visiting Verona (home to Romeo and Juliet) instead. It's a cooler city with cheaper prices and nicer people.
