re: 13 Nights in Italy - What to do?

Venice may be one of the most polarizing cities in all of Europe.

Personally, I love it. Its got a uniqueness and history that is fascinating. St. Mark's, the Rialto Bridge, Bridge of sighs, gondolas...all of that gets a bad rap for being touristy, which it is, but its still pretty amazing to see.

But to me, the real soul of whatever is left of Venice is just wandering around and finding these other squares that are quiet and usually have a bar or cafe, a fountain, and some kids kicking a soccer ball and not much else, maybe a market on the right day.

If flying out of Venice, might be a good idea to do one or 2 nights in Venice, then hit the road then end with a night or 2 back in Venice as a way to wind down.