Venice is for lovers, lovers of life and all that makes life rich. Of course there are the iconic gondolas, the pigeons of Piazza San Marco and the basilica, but Venice is so much more.

This year carnival time is 6 -16 February 2010 and the city will be filled to the brim with people. So when all the party goers have departed and for a more intimate stay in Venice enter to win two round-trip tickets from our partner Air France. The last day to enter the Lyon à la Carte Air France Valentine’s Day Contest is 14 February 2010. Click here for contest rules.

Instead of rushing from place-to-place like a mad tourist select a few places and attractions and indulge yourself. Here are three Petit Futé suggestions to sample the wine, have a great italian café or gelato. Go to the Petit Futé website and plan your itinerary.

BAR: UN MONDO DIVINO 5984a, Salizada San Canzian Cannaregio Tél : (041) 52 11 093

A tiny wine bar with standing room only where you can sample from their long list of wines. They also have a variety of snacks and appetizers.

CAFÉ FLORIAN Piazza San Marco, 56/59 Tél : (041) 52 05 641

The oldest, most elegant and most famous café in Venice founded in 1720.

GELATO: LA BOUTIQUE DEL GELATO Salizada San Lio, 5727 Castello Tél : (041) 52 23 283

Italy is also renowned for its gelato (ice cream) and there are vendors everywhere. Gelato differs from ice cream in that it has a lower fat, but higher sugar content. It is frozen very quickly and usually in individual small batches. The ingredients are usually fresh and the flavor is intense.

Whether strolling the fashionable piazza or a tiny campo, Venice, at every turn and intersection is a discovery of color, art, food, and conversation. Whatever your interest, just start walking!

Be sure to register for a chance to win a pair of Air France tickets to Venice.

No purchase is necessary to win but some restrictions apply. Click here for complete details and the contest rules.