A gondola ride through the canals of Venice has been a tradition that travelers have enjoyed for centuries. Venice is a city of islands and the canals have long been the city's main streets, connected by a labyrinth of narrow passages. Along the canals are old buildings that have remained relatively unchanged for hundreds of years, adding to the romantic charm. The Grand Canal is the most famous of these waterways and one of the most photographed sites in Venice. The best way to see many of the grand palaces, whose facades overlook the water, is from a vaporetto ride along the Grand Canal.