Choose from 58 Fun Things to Do in Venice
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Venice Accademia Gallery (Gallerie dell'Accademia)
Home to the best art collection in Venice, the Accademia Gallery (Gallerie dell'Accademia) houses Venetian paintings dating from the 14th century to the 18th century. Leonardo da Vinci’s Vitruvian Man is the collection’s most famous work, but the Venetian painters best capture the spirit of the Floating City.
The Basics
Venice’s Accademia Gallery gathers sumptuous masterpieces by Venetian artists like Titian, Giambattista Tiepolo, Canaletto, Mantegna, Hieronymus Bosch, Giovanni Bellini, and Paolo Veronese. Housed in the Scuola della Carita, part of the former Santa Maria della Carità convent complex, the museum first opened in the early 19th century. Today it is home to both a permanent collection and rotating temporary exhibitions. To fully understand the scope and importance of the artwork on display, by far the best way to visit is with a guided tour that includes skip-the-line access to the popular museum.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Accademia Gallery is a must-see for art enthusiasts.
- Da Vinci’s Vitruvian Man is on display only periodically due to its fragile nature.
- The Accademia Gallery is accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
Venice's Accademia Gallery is located on Campo della Carità in the Dorsoduro district right on the Grand Canal. Take vaporetto line 1 or 2 to the Accademia stop from either St. Mark’s Square or the train station.
When to Get There
Venice is one of the most popular destinations in Italy, and the best time to visit its sights is October to March, when the city is less crowded. That said, the Accademia Gallery is the perfect respite from the muggy heat in summer, cold lagoon winds in winter, and sudden rainstorms in spring and fall. The museum is closed on Monday afternoons, May 1, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
Venice’s Scuole Grandi
The Scuola della Carità was the oldest Scuola Grande in Venice, dating from the 13th century. The city originally had six of these important charitable and religious confraternities, which were Napoleon disbanded during his 18th-century occupation.
Address: Campo della Carita 1050, Venice, Veneto, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 24
Peggy Guggenheim Collection (Collezione Peggy Guggenheim)
One of the most popular and prestigious museums in Venice, the Peggy Guggenheim Collection of modern art provides a welcome contrast to Venice’s ornate Gothic and baroque art and architecture. A visit here is a must for any lover of 20th-century art.
The Basics
Peggy Guggenheim, an important New York art collector who spent the last 30 years of her life in Venice, amassed an important collection of early 20th-century European and American art. Upon her death in 1979, her home on the Grand Canal, Palazzo Venier dei Leoni, became the Peggy Guggenheim Collection museum. The palazzo and sculpture garden include works by such artists as Picasso, Kandinsky, Magritte, Dalí, Calder, Giacometti, Marini, and Pollock.
Because of the scope and importance of the collection, it’s best to visit as part of a Peggy Guggenheim Collection guided tour, or take an after-hours private tour to enjoy the art without the crowds.
Things to Know Before You Go
- In addition to the permanent collection, the museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and retrospectives.
- Photography (without flash) is allowed inside the museum and sculpture garden.
- Both the museum and garden are accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
- The museum has a shop and a café serving lunch and snacks.
How to Get There
The easiest way to reach the Peggy Guggenheim Collection is by water: take vaporetto 1 or 2 to the Accademia stop.
When to Get There
Palazzo Venier dei Leoni was retrofitted as a museum after Peggy Guggenheim's death, so the rooms are small and the collection is best viewed early in the day before the crowds arrive. The museum is open daily except Tuesdays.
The Guggenheim Museums
Before her death, Peggy Guggenheim donated her palazzo and art collection to the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation, created by her uncle in 1937. It was this same uncle who commissioned New York's famous spiral-shaped Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in the 1950s.
Address: 704 Dorsoduro, Venice 30123, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 29
St Mark's Basilica (Basilica of San Marco)
St. Mark’s Basilica is the crown jewel of Venice, one of the most sumptuous cities in the western world. This ornate cathedral blends elements of Gothic, Byzantine, Romanesque, and Renaissance architecture—testimony to the city’s political and economic dominance that spanned centuries. Topped by soaring domes and with an interior of astonishing golden mosaics, the church is so opulent it is known as the Chiesa d’Oro, or the Golden Church. Construction began in 828, when the body of St. Mark was smuggled back to Venice from Alexandria; the church has been rebuilt, expanded, and delicately restored over the centuries.
The Basics
St. Mark’s Basilica is the most famous monument in Venice and hosts millions of visitors each year, so there are often long lines to enter. To avoid the crowds and wait times, book a skip-the-line tour, or opt for an after-hours tour for private evening access. While the exterior is visited on just about every city sightseeing tour, a guided tour is the best way to experience the cathedral, given the complexity of its art and architecture. A private or small-group evening tour led by an expert tour guide offers a unique and intimate experience, and the basilica is located on St. Mark’s Square, so you can easily combine a basilica tour with a gondola ride and a Doge’s Palace tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Like most churches in Italy, St. Mark’s Basilica requires visitors to wear appropriate clothing—no exposed shoulders, knees, or midriffs.
- Large bags are not permitted in the basilica. Deposit any luggage at Ateneo di San Basso (in Piazzetta dei Leoncini).
How to Get There
The cathedral is on the eastern end of the Piazza San Marco, adjacent to the Palazzo Ducale (Doge’s Palace) along the Grand Canal. The nearest vaporetto (ferry) stop is San Marco–San Zaccaria.
When to Get There
The basilica is most crowded at midday, so begin or end your Venice tour with a morning or late-afternoon visit. Summer is the most popular time of year to visit, while Venice is relatively quiet from November through February (aside from the Christmas and New Year holidays, and during Carnival).
The Pala d’Oro
St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome is famous for Michelangelo's “Pietà” and Florence’s Duomo is known for Brunelleschi’s dome, but St. Mark’s Basilica’s greatest treasure—the stunning Pala d'Oro—dates back centuries before either of those masterpieces. This glittering gold and enamel altarpiece from AD 976 is considered one of the most important, refined examples of Byzantine enamel in the world.
Address: Piazza San Marco, Venice 30124, Italy
Hours: Mon - Sat 9:45am-5:00pm, Sun and holidays 2pm-4:30pm
Admission: Free
From $ 3
Chiesa di Santa Maria del Giglio (Santa Maria Zobenigo)
A showstopper of a church, Santa Maria del Giglio (known locally as Santa Maria Zobenigo after the Venetian family who founded the original chapel) has one of the most ornate baroque facades in Venice. The church also houses works by Peter Paul Rubens and Tintoretto and boasts an ornate, cherub-covered baptistery.
The Basics
Founded in the 9th century, Santa Maria del Giglio (Saint Mary of the Lily) was rebuilt in the 17th century by Italian architect Giuseppe Sardi for Antonio Barbaro, a renowned military leader and scion of a wealthy Venetian dynasty. The sumptuous marble facade is unusual in that it includes largely secular imagery. The interior contains Tintoretto’s The Evangelists and, in the Molin chapel, Rubens’ Virgin and Child with the Young St. John, the only painting by the Flemish master in Venice.
Santa Maria del Giglio is a stop on some private walking tours of the San Marco neighborhood, which may also include nearby highlights such as St. Mark's Basilica (Basilica San Marco), the Doge's Palace (Palazzo Ducale), and the Rialto Bridge (Ponte di Rialto). You can easily pair a visit to the church, set just off the Grand Canal, with a gondola ride and serenade.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Venice is largely a walking town, so it’s a good idea to wear comfortable shoes and a sun hat.
- With a short flight of steps at the entrance, Santa Maria del Giglio is inaccessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
- If you plan to visit the church’s interior, choose modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
How to Get There
The Chiesa di Santa Maria del Giglio is located at Campo Santa Maria del Giglio in the San Marco neighborhood, just a short walk from Piazza San Marco. It’s also possible to reach via vaporetto (water bus); take line 1 to the Santa Maria del Giglio stop along the Grand Canal.
When to Get There
Venice is one of the most crowded tourist destinations in Italy, especially in summer. Visit in late fall or early spring to enjoy the city with fewer crowds. As the church isn’t one of the city’s blockbuster sights, it’s a good choice during the busiest part of the day.
A Worldly Facade
The unusually secular facade of this church features prominent statues of the Barbaro family, who financed the church’s 17th-century rebuilding. Also depicted are maps of the regions where Antonio Barbaro served on his military campaigns, battle scenes, and the family coat of arms. Flemish sculptor Josse Le Court, who also worked on Venice’s Santa Maria della Salute church, contributed figures of the Four Virtues.
Address: Campo Santa Maria del Giglio, San Marco, Venice, Veneto 30125, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 47
Querini Stampalia Foundation (Fondazione Querini Stampalia)
Palazzo Querini Stampalia is one of Venice’s few noble palaces open to the public. Here you can tour the 18th-century ducal apartments as well as view the extensive collection of fine art—including works by Giovanni Bellini, Pietro Longhi, and Tiepolo—at the Fondazione Querini Stampalia (Querini Stampalia Foundation).
The Basics
La Fondazione Querini Stampalia was created by Count Giovanni—the last of the Venetian Querini Stampalia family—as a cultural center; today it houses a library and art collection, the original apartments, and exhibition areas for concerts and events. Architect Carlo Scarpa reworked the ground floor and garden in the 1960s, and Mario Botta completed a later renovation and expansion were completed in the 1990s. But the palazzo dates from the 16th century and the ornate stuccos, Meissen porcelain, and fine tapestries of the original noble apartments remain.
A stop at the Querini Stampalia Foundation is a highlight of any Venice walking tour that combines quieter, lesser-known sights with skip-the-line tickets to A-list attractions like St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The foundation’s 700-year-old library, considered the most beautiful in Venice, is open to the public.
- The foundation often holds contemporary art exhibits in the Carlo Scarpa Area during Venice’s Biennale.
- The complex’s ground floor houses a bookstore and café.
- The palazzo is accessible to wheelchair users via a secondary entrance with a bell to alert staff.
How to Get There
Entrance to Querini Stampalia Palace is on Campo Santa Maria Formosa, Castello 5252, a short walk from Piazza San Marco and the Rialto or San Zaccaria vaporetto (water bus) stops.
When to Get There
Venice is one of the most visited cities in Italy, so less famous sights like the Querini Stampalia Foundation are a welcome respite from the summer crowds. The foundation holds regular events, so check their program calendar to experience a workshop, classical concert, or temporary art exhibition.
The Querini Stampalia Library
The Querini Stampalia Foundation’s library has a collection of over 350,000 historical and modern pieces, with a reading room of about 32,000 books, more than 350 magazines and journals, and 20 local, national, and international newspapers. Count Giovanni wanted the citizens of Venice to have access to culture, so he stipulated that the library be open on Sunday, on holidays, and late into the evening. The library is free for visitors aged 16 and up.
Address: Santa Maria Formosa, 5252, Sestiere Castello, Venice, Veneto 30122, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 16
Marco Polo's House
In a quiet corner of Venice ,the Venetian palace (palazzo) believed to be explorer Marco Polo’s former residence is easy to miss. Stop by Corte Seconda del Milion, a square named for Marco Polo's travel memoirs, Il Milione, to honor Italy's most famous adventurer while visiting the Floating City.
The Basics
Marco Polo's House (Casa di Marco Polo), near San Giovanni Crisostomo Church and behind Teatro Malibran, isn’t open to the public, but there’s a small marble plaque on the wall commemorating its importance. The house, which faces a small triangular patch of sidewalk next to a canal in the Corte Seconda del Milion, can be quite difficult to find. Walk through a passageway (sottoportego) that cuts through what would be a building’s ground floor to reach it.
Marco Polo's House is best visited as part of a Venice walking tour or guided tour of nearby highlights, including Piazza San Marco and St. Mark's Basilica, Doge's Palace, and the Rialto Bridge. The building is set on one of Venice's quiet internal canals not far from the Grand Canal, so it can also be seen during a gondola ride through the city. Being near to the Rialto market, it’s an easy stop on Venice street food tours that include a walk through the market stalls and surrounding neighborhood.
Things to Know Before You Go
- If exploring Venice on a walking tour, wear comfortable shoes, a hat, and sunscreen.
- The sidewalk facing the palace is accessible to wheelchairs, if approaching from the Cannaregio side; from the Castello side, there is a small bridge with stairs to cross the canal.
- Though you can’t tour inside the palace, its facade and surrounding neighborhood are particularly picturesque, so be sure to bring your camera.
- This is a memorable stop for history buffs.
How to Get There
Marco Polo's House is located on Calle Scaleta, on the border between the Castello and Cannaregio neighborhoods. Reach the building on foot from St. Mark's Square or the Rialto Bridge, or by water taxi from the Grand Canal.
When to Get There
Marco Polo’ house is one of Venice's quieter sights, located in a sleepy quarter of the city center. If you need a respite from the crowds during busy midday hours, this is a good spot to choose.
The Marco Polo House Plaque
The plaque marking is in Italian; the English translation reads: “Here was once the home of Marco Polo, who traveled to the furthest reaches of Asia and described his journeys. Placed by city decree in 1881.”
Address: Corte Prima del Milion, Venice 30100, Italy
From $ 3
Rialto Bridge (Ponte di Rialto)
The Rialto Bridge was the first to span Venice’s Grand Canal (Canal Grande) between its two highest points above sea level. The original 12th-century wooden bridge was replaced in 1592 by a stone structure resting on wooden pilings—a bold design by Antonio da Ponte featuring a single central arch over the water that allow ships to pass. Today, the bridge is among Italy’s most famous, carrying an endless stream of tourists and locals across the canal while countless gondolas and vaporetto water buses pass beneath.
The Basics
The Rialto is one of the most famous landmark bridges in Europe, and a popular and crowded Venice attraction connecting the San Marco district, home of St. Mark's Square, to the San Polo district, where Venice's famous fish market has stood for 700 years. The bridge is visited on nearly every walking tour through the "Floating City," along with other historic tourist attractions like the nearby Doge's Palace (Palazzo Ducale), Bridge of Sighs (Ponte dei Sospiri), and St. Mark's Basilica (Basilica di San Marco). For a unique view of the bridge far from the crowds, consider booking a Venice gondola ride or Venice Grand Canal evening boat tour to see the bridge from the water.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The bridge is lined with tiny shops and leads to the San Polo neighborhood, known for its market and gourmet stores; it’s an ideal spot for souvenir shopping.
- The Rialto is a pedestrian bridge but has stairs on each side, so it is not accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get to There
The Rialto Bridge crosses the Grand Canal between the San Marco and San Polo districts, and can be reached by vaporetto water bus lines 1 and 2 via the Rialto stop. Along Venice's maze of tiny streets, there are signs and arrows painted on the walls at regular intervals pointing toward the Rialto.
When to Get There
The islands of Venice are crowded with tourists during the popular summer months, and it can be a challenge to navigate the crowds on the bridge. Take an early morning or late evening stroll if visiting between April and October, or book a private tour by boat along the Grand Canal.
The Grand Canal Bridges
The Rialto Bridge is one of four bridges that span the Grand Canal. The other three are the wood-and-steel Accademia Bridge (Ponte dell'Accademia), the modern Constitution Bridge (Ponte della Costituzione), and the marble ‘Bridge of the Barefoot’ (Ponte degli Scalzi).
Address: Ponte di Rialto, Venice 30125, Italy
Hours: Open every day, 24 hours a day.
Admission: Free
From $ 21
Lake Misurina
Just over 106 miles north of Venice, high up in the Dolomites, sits a large natural lake that contributed to Olympic speed skating history. With its handful of hotels lining its shores, clear, fresh air and mountain backdrop, Lake Misurina is the spot to go to if you're looking for a scenic getaway from the canal city of Venice.
The lake is near the 1956 Winter Olympics host city of Cortina d'Ampezzo and served as the site of the last Olympic speed skating events that were held on natural ice. A 1.6-mile path runs around the lake, which has a maximum depth of 16 feet. Each of the several hotels on the lake offer views of the spectacular mountains. Behind each of the hotels on the lake are the spectacular mountain views.
Practical Info
Lake Misurina is accessible via public transit from Venice, but the easiest (and fastest) way to get there is by renting a car or booking a private tour that includes direct transportation. While you're in the area, don't miss a stop in the ski resort town of Cortina d'Ampezzo to see how the town’s Germanic influences combine with Italian heritage.
Address: Venice, Italy
From $ 179
Museo del Merletto (Lace Museum)
The island of Murano in the Venetian lagoon is famous for its glass-making, but nearby Burano has its own crafty claim to fame - lace-making. The ancient tradition of hand-made lace is not nearly as common as it once was, but you can still see some women in Burano making lace the old-fashioned way, and you can get your lace education at the island’s Museo del Merletto - the Lace Museum.
The Lace Museum on Burano contains more than 200 examples of Venetian lace-making dating from the 16th to the 20th centuries. The collection is organized in chronological order over two floors, including a section on the Burano Lace School, which existed on the island for nearly 100 years. There are also special exhibits that are on display periodically, so check at the museum ticket desk to find out what extra collections are there when you visit.
In addition to the exhibits in the Museo del Merletto, you can also see traditional lace-making being done by hand by people who still maintain and practice the art form.
The Lace Museum on Burano contains more than 200 examples of Venetian lace-making dating from the 16th to the 20th centuries. The collection is organized in chronological order over two floors, including a section on the Burano Lace School, which existed on the island for nearly 100 years. There are also special exhibits that are on display periodically, so check at the museum ticket desk to find out what extra collections are there when you visit.
In addition to the exhibits in the Museo del Merletto, you can also see traditional lace-making being done by hand by people who still maintain and practice the art form.
Practical Info:
The Lace Museum is open April 1-October 31 from 10am-6pm, and November
1-March 31 from 10am-5pm. It’s closed on Mondays, Christmas Day, New
Year’s Day, and May 1. Admission is €5. The Museo del Merletto is part
of the Venetian Civic Museums, so it’s on the cumulative Museum Pass
(which costs €24).
Address: Piazza Baldassare Galuppi, 187, Venice, Burano Province of Venice 30142, Italy
Hours: Apr 1 - Oct 31 from 10am - 6pm, and Nov 1 - Mar 31 from 10am - 5pm. It’s closed on Mondays, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day, and May 1
Admission: 5 EUR
From $ 8
Venice Cruise Port
Cruising into the Venetian Lagoon is an unforgettable experience, as you skirt the islands to dock at the Stazione Marittima near the Piazzale Roma transport hub. St. Mark’s Square and its many-domed basilica is only a short public ferry or water taxi ride away, and the picturesque canals, bridges, and palaces of Venice await.
The Basics
Venice can be a confusing maze of winding canals and tiny backstreets for any visitor, so joining a private walking tour of the Floating City is the most stress-free way to savor its unique beauty and visit the most famous attractions while in port. Maximize your time by exploring Venice with a shore excursion that includes a water taxi ride from the cruise port down the Grand Canal to St. Mark’s Square and skip-the-line tickets to the more crowded attractions like the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica. Most Venice shore excursions include a half-day guided walking tour that takes in highlights like St. Mark’s Square and Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, the Rialto Bridge, and the city’s famous network of canals, bridges, and quiet backstreets.
Things to Know Before You Go
- St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace are the most visited attractions in Venice, so be sure to choose a tour with skip-the-line tickets.
- Entry to most Venetian churches, including St. Mark’s Basilica, require clothing that covers shoulders and knees.
- Private tours and shore excursions of Venice require a fair amount of walking, and comfortable footwear and weather-appropriate clothing is recommended.
- There are numerous canalside stops around the city where you can book a gondola ride; rates are official and posted at all the stops.
How to Get to Venice from the Venice Cruise Port
Vaporettos (public ferries) and water taxis run to St. Mark’s Square from the Stazione Marittima cruise port hourly and take about 20 minutes to make the trip down the Grand Canal; you could also walk 10 to 15 minutes to Piazzale Roma and catch the vaporetto from there, which run more frequently. Some cruise lines provide a free shuttle to St. Mark’s Square, and many shore excursions include a private water taxi to the square.
Venice Cruise Port Information
Most of the largest cruise lines stop at the Venice cruise port. Italian is the predominant language here, but English is widely understood throughout Venice. The local currency is the euro; ATMs and foreign exchange bureaus are clustered around St. Mark’s Square.
Address: Marittima-Fabbricato 248, Venice 30100, Italy
From $ 64
Murano
Of Venice’s 100-plus outlying islands, the group that forms Murano is the most famous. This tight cluster of small islands has been the center of the Floating City’s historic glassmaking industry since 1291, when the city center’s glass factories were forcibly moved across the lagoon—just north of Venice proper—after a number of devastating fires. Today, travelers visit Murano to see how expertly trained artisans blow glass into exquisite stemware, chandeliers, vases, and sculptures. Those particularly interested in the history of glassmaking should stop by the Museo del Vetro, which traces the art back to ancient Egypt.
The Basics
The best way to visit Murano is on a boat tour of the Venice islands. These tours make stops on Murano to see traditional glassblowing the island of Burano, famous for its lace-making; and Torcello, believed to be the first populated island in the Venetian lagoon. Private tours let you enjoy a boat ride across the waters of the lagoon, visits to artisan workshops and factories accompanied by an expert tour guide, and a bit of free time for shopping and exploring without having to navigate Venice’s complex vaporetto (ferry) system between the islands.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Be sure to bring your camera, as Murano glassblowing and Burano lace-making demonstrations make for great photos.
- Murano glass and Burano lace are both famous for their impeccable craftsmanship and quality—and prices reflect that. Be wary of “bargain” prices, which often mean counterfeit goods.
- Murano’s glass shops are known for their hard-sell techniques, which can be uncomfortable. To avoid being strong-armed, always book your Venice islands tour through a reputable company.
How to Get There
From St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco), take vaporetto (ferry) 4.1 from the San Zaccaria stop, or a private water taxi from the Grand Canal boat launch, just steps from St Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace.
When to Get There
The Venice islands are most crowded in summer. From November through February, Venice is relatively quiet, though the temperatures can make for a chilly boat trip across the lagoon.
There Be Dragons
Murano’s seventh-century Basilica di Santa Maria e San Donato, one of the oldest in Venice, is famous for its exquisite Byzantine mosaics. It’s also known for what’s on display behind the altar: four massive rib bones said to be from a dragon slain by St. Donatus in Greece.
Address: Venice, Italy
Admission: Free
From $ 23
St Mark's Square (Piazza San Marco)
St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco), often referred to as “the drawing room of Europe,” is one of the most famous squares in Italy. The geographic and cultural heart of Venice—with St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace at one end, the campanile in the center, and the colonnaded arcade topped by the Procuratie palaces lining three sides—this elegant piazza is also steeped in history. Settle in at one of the many coveted café tables and watch tourists (and pigeons) pose for photos while you sip a Bellini and soak in the square’s Renaissance splendor.
The Basics
Located at the center of Venice, St. Mark’s Square is the perfect hub around which to plan your walking tour of Venice. It is just steps from the Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale) and its famous Bridge of Sighs, the Rialto Bridge over the Grand Canal, and the Riva walk along the waterfront. The piazza is home to a number of palaces and sculptures by the Renaissance sculptor and architect Sansovino, so a private or small-group guided tour is key to fully appreciating its rich Venetian Gothic art and architecture.
Things to Know Before You Go
- You can climb to the top of the square’s clock tower, but prebook skip-the-line access to avoid a long wait.
- Kids love to feed and chase the pigeons that flock to the center of this family-friendly piazza.
- The main square connects to the smaller piazzetta square, which is flanked by the Doge’s Palace and the St. Mark’s library (Biblioteca Nazionale Marciana), and opens out onto the Grand Canal.
- St. Mark’s Square is the focal point of Venice’s lavish Carnival celebrations every February.
- Although often crowded, the flat square is easily accessible for strollers and those with limited mobility.
How to Get There
St. Mark’s Square is located along Venice’s Grand Canal. The nearest vaporetto (ferry) stop is San Marco–San Zaccaria.
When to Get There
St. Mark’s Square is an open-air square, so the area is best enjoyed during the milder months of the year. Summer brings the largest crowds to the piazza, but overall, Venice is relatively quiet from November through February.
Flooding at St. Mark’s Square
Venice sits at sea level on the Adriatic, so when tides are especially high during winter, the city is often flooded. St. Mark’s Square is one of the lowest parts of the city center, and when acqua alta, or high water, hits, Venice sets up elevated walkways so locals and visitors can cross the piazza without getting wet.
Address: Piazza San Marco, Venice 31024, Italy
Hours: Open daily 24hrs
Admission: Free
From $ 5
Venetian Lagoon
Venice is a patchwork of many islands in the Venetian Lagoon, an enclosed bay on the Adriatic Sea that covers 212 square miles (549 square kilometers). After visiting the main Venetian islands, take a boat trip across the shallow lagoon to the outlying islands of Burano, Murano, and Torcello.
The Basics
Italy’s Venetian Lagoon was formed by nature thousands of years ago, but human intervention over the past centuries—including hydraulic projects to prevent the lagoon from becoming a marsh and the drainage and construction of islands—has shaped the bay into what it is today.
The most popular way to explore the lagoon is by motorboat cruise from the city of Venice to quieter nearby islands such as Burano, famous for its lace and colorful buildings; Murano, known for its glass production; and Torcello, thought to be one of the first inhabited islands in the lagoon. For a romantic evening on the lagoon, opt for a Venice sunset cruise or a gondola ride along the canals in Venice proper fed by the waters of the lagoon.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Most Venetian Lagoon cruises last about half a day (four hours), giving you time to disembark on each island and explore.
- Confirm wheelchair accessibility for lagoon boat tours ahead of time.
- Be sure to bring sunscreen and a hat if touring by boat during the summer months.
- The waters of the lagoon are generally quite calm, so cruises can be pleasant even for those who suffer from motion sickness.
How to Get There
The Venetian Lagoon straddles the provinces of Venice and Padua in northern Italy, but by far the easiest and most popular way to reach the lagoon is via the city of Venice either by plane, train, or car.
When to Get There
The lagoon can be choppy in winter, so the best time to cruise the waters is May to September, with the additional benefit of escaping the crowds that invade the main islands during these months. Venice has a number of festivals that take place in whole or in part on the lagoon; the most spectacular are Carnival in January and February, the Festa del Redentore in July, and the Festa della Madonna della Salute in November.
Acqua Alta
The water level in the Venetian lagoon varies dramatically during the year. Often, Venice experiences acqua alta (high water) in the wet winter months, when sea waters flood the low-lying areas of the city along the Grand Canal, including Piazza San Marco and the Rialto Market. The city sets up raised wooden walkways during acqua alta, so people can get around the flooded portions of the city without getting their feet wet.
Address: Venice, Italy
From $ 23
Hard Rock Cafe Venice
Venice may look like it hasn't changed in hundreds of years, but wander behind St. Mark's Square and you'll find evidence to the contrary – the Hard Rock Cafe Venice.
This is the smallest Hard Rock Cafe in Europe, and it's located inside an historic Venetian building. One side of the restaurant overlooks a canal and what is typically a large gathering of gondolas – it's near one of the main pick-up points for visitors who want a gondola ride.
It's the place to go in Venice if you're craving classic American food and the only place to get those signature Hard Rock Cafe souvenirs. There's also a “Rock Shop” at the Rialto Bridge, if you just want to go shopping without eating at the restaurant.
Practical Info
The Hard Rock Cafe Venice is open daily from 11am-11:30pm, and the bar is open Sunday-Friday from 11am-12:30pm and Saturdays from 11am-1:30am. The shop at the restaurant is open daily from 10am-11pm, and the shop at the Rialto Bridge is open from 9:30am-11pm.
Address: Bacino Orseolo, Venezia 30124, Italy
Hours: Sun-Fri 11am-12:30pm, Fri 11am-1:30am
From $ 27
Palazzo Mocenigo
Palazzo Mocenigo in Venice was built in the late Renaissance period and was extensively rebuilt in a Gothic style in the early 17th century. It was once the home of the Mocenigo family, a prestigious family in Venice, and seven members of the family became doges between 1414 and 1778. The last descendent of the Mocenigo family left the palace to the city in order for it to become a museum, which opened in 1985 and became the Study Center of the History of Fabrics and Costumes.
Aside from large collections of ancient fabrics and clothes, the museum also has a library that houses books on the history of fabrics, costumes, and fashion. The exhibition area shows different aspects of the life and activities of a Venetian nobleman during the 17th and 18th centuries. There is also a new exhibit focusing on the history of perfumes and essences.
Practical Info
Palazzo Mocenigo is located at Santa Croce 1992. Entrance is 8 euros.
Address: Santa Croce 1992, Venice, Italy
Admission: Admission: 8 euros
From $ 9
Cannaregio
Cannaregio is the largest and most populated of Venice’s six central districts (sestieri). Home to the Jewish ghetto, the art-filled Chiesa della Madonna dell'Orto, the Renaissance Chiesa di Santa Maria dei Miracoli, and the restaurant-lined Fondamenta de la Misericordia, Cannaregio offers something for everyone.
The Basics
Cannaregio, bookended by the Santa Lucia train station and the Rialto Bridge, lines most of Venice’s Grand Canal. Strada Nuova, the district’s busy main street, teems with souvenir shops and tourists; however, meander off into the side streets and canals and you'll soon find peaceful squares (piazzas) and churches.
The best way to explore Cannaregio is by linking up with a walking tour led by a professional guide—someone who knows both the famous monuments and the hidden gems. The biggest attraction here is the Jewish ghetto; tours will also include the area's key churches, Ca' d'Oro Palace, Campo San Leonardo and Campo dei Mori squares, and Ponte delle Guglie (a historic bridge). You can pair small-group and private tours with a gondola ride or a tour of Venice highlights, such as St. Mark's Basilica, the Doge's Palace, and the Rialto Bridge.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Tours of Cannaregio include a fair amount of walking, so wear comfortable shoes and a sun hat.
- The quiet backstreets of the Cannaregio are easier to manage with kids than the crowded areas around Piazza San Marco.
- Ponte delle Guglie has recently added ramps, making it one of the few Venetian bridges that’s wheelchair accessible.
- Venice has six districts: Castello, Cannaregio, Dorsoduro, San Marco, Santa Croce, and San Polo. Cannaregio borders Castello and a tiny corner of San Marco; it’s situated across the Grand Canal from Santa Croce and San Polo.
How to Get There
To get to Cannaregio, take a Grand Canal water bus—vaporetto line 1 to the Ponte di Rialto stop—or walk from Santa Lucia train station across the Ponte delle Guglie bridge.
When to Get There
The December Hanukkah celebrations in Cannaregio’s historic Jewish ghetto are particularly beautiful, with live music, celebrations, and a traditional menorah-lighting.
Venice’s Jewish Ghetto
Venice is home to the world's oldest Jewish ghetto, established in 1516. Today, the area is still filled with historic synagogues, Jewish-run businesses, and Kosher restaurants.
Address: Venice, Italy
From $ 27
Mazzorbo
If you are looking to escape the crowds in Venice, Mazzorbo is the place to go. With only 350 residents and located far off the main tourist track, the small island is home to hundreds of artichoke fields, vineyards and fruit trees. Connected to larger Burano by a wooden bridge, Mazzorbo makes a great day trip from Venice combined with stops in Burano and the nearby island of Torcello. It has a rich history that dates to the year 640 and the most notable building on the island, the Santa Caterina Monastery, dates to 1283.
If visiting in the summer, you may want to time your visit to coincide with the annual fair held in the yard of the monastery. There, you can get a taste of life on the island by sampling local dishes and red wine and enjoying live music and games.
Also worth a visit is Venissa, an ancient estate that has been restored by a family of winemakers and converted into an excellent restaurant with a menu that changes daily.
Practical Info
The only way to get to Mazzorbo is by boat or by walking across the bridge from Burano. From Venice, take the Laguna Nord ferry from the Fondamente Nuove stop on the northern shore. It operates every 30 minutes and the trip from Venice to Mazzorbo will take just over half an hour. Alternatively, you might join a day tour that visits Torcello, Burano and Mazzorbo.
Address: Mazzorbo, Italy
From $ 229
Prosecco Hills
Prosecco has grown world famous as the sparkling wine of Italy. Grown in the Prosecco Hills just north of Venice, a visit to the wine region is not only tasty but excessively scenic. As opposed to champagne which refers to a region, the name ‘prosecco’ refers to the grape itself, though it is also called ‘glera.’ It is grown in this lush valley of Italy, surrounded by green hills and framed by the Dolomite Mountains. Prosecco has been grown here for more than ten centuries.
Three main towns can be found in the region: Valdobbiadene, Conegliano and Vittorio Veneto. Mild climate and rich soils make this the Vineyards, tasting rooms, and local restaurants all offer opportunities to taste the dry, light sparkling wine at its source. Many of the vineyards have small terraces on steep slopes that offer great views of the surrounding countryside. Wine-centered events take place during the summer months.
Practical Info
The Prosecco Hills are roughly an hour’s drive from Venice. The closest airport is Treviso. It is advised to call ahead to check that a vineyard is open before visiting.
Address: Valdobbiadene, Veneto, Italy, Italy
From $ 179
Ponte dell'Accademia
Spanning the southern end of the Grand Canal between the Galleria dell’Accademia in Dorsoduro and Campo San Vidal in San Marco, the Ponte dell’Accademia is one of only four bridges crossing the canal. It’s the perfect vantage point to view the church of Santa Maria della Salute and the canal or observe the city’s Carnival festivities.
The Basics
The Accademia Bridge has had several incarnations since the original steel structure was constructed in 1854. This was replaced by a wooden bridge designed by Eugenio Miozzi in 1933, later deemed unsafe and removed. Today’s version, erected in 1985, was crafted out of wood in a single arched span and is identical in construction to Miozzi’s but has additional steel supports.
The bridge is a highlight of skip-the-line walking tours that cover the Accademia Gallery and Dorsoduro district. For a unique view of the bridge, consider a Venice gondola ride or cruise by luxury motorboat along the Grand Canal.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The craze for lovers placing locks on bridges in European cities has taken hold on the Ponte dell’Accademia, but Venetian authorities fear for the structure and have imposed fines for attaching “love locks.”
- Though a pedestrian bridge, Ponte dell’Accademia has stairs on each side, so is not accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
- The span offers sweeping views over the Grand Canal, so be sure to stop and snap a few pictures when crossing.
How to Get to There
The Ponte dell’Accademia crosses the Grand Canal between the San Marco and Dorsoduro districts. To get there, take vaporetto water bus line 1 or 2 to the Accademia stop.
When to Get There
Venice is crowded with tourists during the popular summer months, and it can be frustrating to navigate the crowds on the bridge. Between April and October, the best option is to take an early morning or late evening stroll over the bridge, or opt for a private gondola ride or boat tour along the Grand Canal. During the two weeks of Carnival, which ends 40 days before Easter, the bridge offers excellent views of costumed revelers in colorfully draped gondolas.
The Grand Canal Bridges
The Accademia Bridge is one of four bridges that span the Grand Canal. The other three are the iconic Rialto Bridge (Ponte di Rialto), the modern Constitution Bridge (Ponte della Costituzione), and the marble Bridge of the Barefoot (Ponte degli Scalzi).
Address: Dorsoduro, Venice, Veneto 30123, Italy
From $ 29
Rialto Fish Market (Mercato di Rialto)
To get a glimpse into authentic Venice, a visit to the city’s historic outdoor fish market is a must. Venetians have been purchasing their fish and seafood, fresh fruit and vegetables, and other foods at the Rialto Market since 1097, making it one of the most long-lived aspects of daily life in the Floating City.
The Basics
At Venice's best-known local market, stalls stand cheek by jowl hawking familiar seafood as well as local specialties from the Venetian lagoon. Browsing the selection is a great way to get an idea of what's local and fresh before you peruse restaurant menus later in the day.
Many walking tours of Venice include a stroll through the Rialto Market along with stops at Piazza San Marco and the Doge's Palace and a gondola ride. An excellent way to visit is as part of a food tour of the city that combines the market with tastings of cicchetti, Venetian snacks.
Things to Know Before You Go
- As with any busy outdoor market in Italy, it's a good idea to keep an eye on your valuables.
- Be sure to bring your camera, as the stalls filled with artful displays of fresh seafood make for great photo opportunities.
- Tours through the Rialto Market are on foot, so wear comfortable shoes and a sun hat.
- The Rialto Bridge is essentially a flight of stairs going up and down, so getting to the market from across the canal may be challenging with a wheelchair or stroller. Instead, take vaporetto Line 1, which is wheelchair accessible, to Rialto Mercato.
How to Get There
Cross the Rialto Bridge from the San Marco side of the Grand Canal to San Polo, then turn right and follow the edge of the canal to Campo della Pescaria, the open square where the Erberia (fruit and vegetable market) is located. Beyond that is the Pescheria, the covered fish market.
When to Get There
The Rialto Market is open Tuesday through Saturday, and the stands are usually closed up by lunch. To see them at their most interesting (and to pick up anything you'd like for a picnic lunch), be there in the early morning.
Food Markets in Italy
Before the recent rise of supermarkets, Italians shopped for their food and housewares in bustling outdoor markets for centuries. A visit to the local market is a fascinating slice of Italian life in any city or town you visit.
Address: 42 San Polo, Venice 30125, Italy
From $ 35