Built in the 13th century and dedicated to the Assumption of Mary, the Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari, usually called the Frari, is the largest church in Venice and an important example of Venetian Gothic ecclesiastical architecture. It holds many masterpieces of Venetian art from the Renaissance period, which is simply a delight for the eye. Titian, the most renowned member of the Venetian school of painting of the 16th century, not only has paintings here, Assumption of the Virgin (1516–18) and Pesaro Madonna (1519–26), as this is also his final resting place.

Whether or not you're a fan of classical music, the Interpreti Veneziani is a welcome break from the city's pulsating core. After its inauguration in 1987, its concerts have been performed all over the world, in countries such as the US, Japan, Canada, and across Latin America. Take one evening to enjoy the harmony brought to you by the orchestra.

The Mingei Iyo-Kasuri Kaikan is a museum and shop devoted to the folk craft (mingei) of weaving with dyed yarn (kasuri). The building itself is attractive with a traditional Japanese-style frontage, resplendent with elaborate plaster and tile work, and a little garden of manicured pines. Behind this frontage is a series of sheds that house the exhibits.

The bustling Hoi An market takes a little getting used to: it's distinctly more hectic than the downtown area and teems with local vendors and shoppers as much as it does with tourists. Abundant Asian herbs, souvenirs like lacquered coconut shell bowls, Vietnamese coffee-makers and traditional cone hats are some of the wares on sale. Of particular interest are the indoor food stands serving up scrumptious snacks at some of the lowest prices in town.