Venice Grand Canal: The world's most exquisite 'street' is in the early morning, as we take a boat ride

The weather throughout this entire trip to Europe has been great, without a single day of rain, truly fortunate. The peace pigeons at the dock bask in the sun with me, waiting for the ferry together. The Grand Canal of Venice is the main waterway of Venice, naturally winding in an inverted S-shape from St. Mark's Basilica to Santa Chiara Church, and connected to many smaller canals. Most of the city's transportation is conducted through these waterways. In the 15th century, French writer and Venetian ambassador Commynes described the Grand Canal of Venice as the most exquisite street in the world, flanked by the most exquisite houses. Five centuries later, the Grand Canal can still rival the world's most beautiful boulevards. Taking a water bus from Piazzale Roma, weaving between ancient buildings on both sides, quietly appreciating the soul river of Venice, you can most closely experience the daily life of Venetians living on the water. The Grand Canal winds in an inverted S-shape from Piazzale Roma in the northwest to St. Mark's Square in the city center, about 4 kilometers long, 6 meters deep, and 40 to 100 meters wide, serving as Venice's main transportation artery. Over 100 ancient buildings along the banks were once the residences of Venetian nobles and wealthy merchants from the 12th to the 18th century. The first Sunday of September each year is Venice's traditional regatta, a race of gondolas and other traditional boats held on the Grand Canal. Before the race, there is a spectacular parade of boats decorated in 15th-century style.