Things to avoid in Venice ~ Places a train ride away..

[julianm]

We`re off to Venice for the first time - hoping to have a relaxing time with lots of walking & visits to art works. I have heard not to have a coffee in St Mark`s square, or order a Gondola with music at 8pm but what else is a must to avoid?
Secondly, if we get Veniced out, how about a day trip to somewhere which is a contrast?
Any ideas welcome.

[julianm]

Thanks a lot for the advice - it`ll be a big adventure (never been on a plane before!) currently watching Francesco's Venice as some background & really enjoying it.

[julianm]

Had a further look at a few books & also films - there is a selection on youtube & found this which is interesting : http://www.fictionalcities.co.uk/venicefilms.htm
Venetian Bird (aka The Assassin) 1952 is on youtube & includes shots inside the glassworks, possibly pretty much the same though it`s from the 50`s!
If you`ve got 10 mins to waste the last scenes in it are interesting & a rooftop chase ends up above St Mark`s square. You also get to see Sid James playing an italian undertaker!