Venice tips?

pictures from Google

I'm traveling to Venice in less than a month and I'm already so excited I'm having hard time going to work every morning. I loved Rome last year and during the wintery months I missed Italy like every second day, so one day I had some extra money on my bank account so I extempore booked flights to Venice.

Now I'm asking you, my dear readers and fellow travel enthusiasts, possible locals or whoever might know.

  What to do and where to go? Where to shop all the coolest stuff in Venice? 

I've done some research, but I want to hear your tips !

Places nearby Venice are fine too, we're staying for over week so we have plenty of time. Also, tips for finding nice coffee shops near Rialto bridge (I'm staying in Hotel Graspo de Ua, which I think is near Rialto) are appreciated, I might be in for the kill if I don't get my daily dose of caffeine in the mornings.

Oh yeah, and if you know the best place for gelato in town, do share your wisdom. I just love that stuff.