One of the city's finest examples of Venetian Gothic architecture, the Ca' d'Oro (Golden House) is one of the most remarkable buildings lining the Grand Canal. With its delicate lacy pink façade, luxuriant beamed ceilings and palatial trappings, it was the residence of Baron Giorgio Franchetti. He generously bequeathed his palazzo and collection of paintings, furniture, sculptures, Flemish tapestries and other artwork to Venice during World War I. Franchetti’s ashes are interred beneath an ancient purple column in the mosaic-floored court downstairs.

The highlights of his collection include Titian’s Venus with a Mirror and Andrea Mantegna's arrow-riddled St Sebastian from the 15th century. Other masterpieces by Tintoretto and Van Dyck are also on display. Aside from the usual pieces displayed, Napolean had also collected unique pieces of ceramics! Complete your experience by stepping out onto the palazzo's loggia (balconies), gaze at the bustling Rialto pescheria (fish market) and admire the romantic scenes of gondolas on the Grand Canal.