A shoo-in at the top of our list, Venice’s Grand Canal snakes through the heart of the famous floating city. The canal functions as the city’s main transportation source as the use of automobiles is strictly prohibited.

At just over two miles (3km), the Grand Canal is the main artery of Venice, separating it into two, and is surrounded by some of the city’s most famous landmarks. Crossing the water, the lavish Rialto Bridge remains a top attraction. Completed in 1591, it is the canal's oldest bridge.

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Ranked: the world’s most beautiful canals and waterways