Choose from 58 Fun Things to Do in Venice
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Doge's Palace (Palazzo Ducale)
The powerful Doges ruled the Venetian Empire from the Gothic fantasy palace that is Doge's Palace (Palazzo Ducale) until 1797. The site was one of the first things those arriving in Venice saw as their ships sailed through the lagoon and landed at St Mark's Square, and the doges ruled with an iron fist—justice was often meted out here. Today, the site is one of the most well-known attractions in Italy.
The Basics
The Palace of Doges is a significant historical site in Venice, with many travelers arriving to hear about the strict rule of the Venice Doges from an expert local guide. The site is most often visited on a two- to five-hour Venice tour and can be combined with a stop at St Mark's Basilica, once the private chapel of the Doges. Inside the palace, admire the many paintings by Titian, Tintoretto, and Veronese, and climb the narrow staircases to visit the Doge's apartments and the prison cells, as well as the ducal notary. Outside the palace is the Bridge of Sighs and the beautiful columns along the piazzetta.
Things to Know Before You Go
How to Get to the Doge's Palace
The Doge's Palace (Palazzo Ducale) is located next to St. Mark's Church in St. Mark's Square. The site is easily accessible by vaporetto (the public water taxi) on the Grand Canal or on foot.
When to Get There
Summertime is popular in Venice; be prepared for lines and crowds. The palace's hours vary seasonally.
A Haunting History
The Basics
The Palace of Doges is a significant historical site in Venice, with many travelers arriving to hear about the strict rule of the Venice Doges from an expert local guide. The site is most often visited on a two- to five-hour Venice tour and can be combined with a stop at St Mark's Basilica, once the private chapel of the Doges. Inside the palace, admire the many paintings by Titian, Tintoretto, and Veronese, and climb the narrow staircases to visit the Doge's apartments and the prison cells, as well as the ducal notary. Outside the palace is the Bridge of Sighs and the beautiful columns along the piazzetta.
The popular Secret Itineraries tour allow visitors, accompanied by a guide, into chambers of the palace not open to the general public. You'll see the secret chancellery where the delicate work of governing was done, the secret archives, the torture room, and the cell from which the famous writer Giacomo Casanova made his escape.
- The palace is best explored on a guided tour for an in-depth historical understanding.
- Booking a St. Mark's museum pass allows access to the three museums in St. Mark's Square.
- The palace is wheelchair accessible, and an audio guide is available for rental.
- The majority of palace tours include Venice hotel pickup and dropoff, although a few tours offer departures from Florence and Milan.
How to Get to the Doge's Palace
The Doge's Palace (Palazzo Ducale) is located next to St. Mark's Church in St. Mark's Square. The site is easily accessible by vaporetto (the public water taxi) on the Grand Canal or on foot.
When to Get There
Summertime is popular in Venice; be prepared for lines and crowds. The palace's hours vary seasonally.
A Haunting History
Death sentences were declared between the 9th and 10th columns outside the palace, while executions were carried out between the freestanding columns in the piazzetta next to the lagoon; even today Venetians won't walk between them. A final chance at life was offered if the accused were able to walk around the edge of the third column on the seaward side of the palace.
Address: San Marco, 1, Venice, Veneto 31024, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 5
Bovolo Staircase (Scala Contarini del Bovolo)
Tucked down a Venice side street near the Grand Canal, Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo is worth a detour for its Bovolo Staircase (Scala Contarini del Bovolo). Named for the Venetian word for snail, this spiral staircase—the most famous in Venice—is housed in a cylindrical tower with open arches that climbs the facade, offering beautiful views over the city.
The Basics
The Scala Contarini del Bovolo was commissioned by Pietro Contarini at the end of the 15th century, and built by Giorgio Spavento in perfect synthesis to the original palace’s six floors of loggias designed by Giovanni Candi. A dramatic series of white stone arches spiral more than 90 feet (27 meters) up the imposing brick tower and seem inspired by the coils of a snail shell; at the top of the 80 steps, the belvedere has wonderful views over the Venetian rooftops.
Though it’s the city’s most famous staircase, Bovolo is also somewhat of a hidden treasure, and visits to this architectural gem are often a highlight of off-the-beaten-track city tours. Consider joining a Secret Venice tour to explore the lesser-known corners of the city along with must-see sights such as St. Mark’s Square, the Doge’s Palace, and the Rialto Bridge. You can also pair walking tours with a gondola ride, so you can explore the city both by land and water.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Bovolo Staircase is especially interesting for architecture enthusiasts.
- Be sure to bring your camera to capture the lovely views from the staircase and rooftop scenic overlook.
- Tours of hidden Venice require a bit of walking, so wear comfortable shoes and a sun hat.
- Due to steps and no elevator to reach the belvedere, the Bovolo Staircase is not accessible to wheelchairs or strollers.
How to Get There
The Bovolo Staircase is located at the Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo, near Campo Manin in the San Marco district of Venice. Take vaporetto line 1 or 2 to the Rialto stop from the train station. Trains to Venice run from most major cities in Italy, including Rome and Florence.
When to Get There
Bovolo Staircase is wonderful any time of day and year. If you’re a photography buff, visit in the late afternoon (before its 6pm closing time) to capture the city of Venice as the sun sets.
Bovolo on the Silver Screen
The Bovolo Staircase became popular among visitors to Venice after being immortalized on screen in Orson Welles’ 1952 adaptation of Shakespeare’s Othello.
Address: Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo, San Marco 4299, Venezia 30124, Italy
From $ 8
Campo San Bartolomeo
Sitting at the southeastern end of the steps leading up to the Rialto Bridge, the lively Campo San Bartolomeo is named after one of the Apostles; at its southwestern end is the church of San Bartolomeo, which was formerly the place of worship for German traders in the city. The long, narrow piazza is dominated by a flamboyant bronze statue of comic Venetian playwright Carlo Goldoni (1707–93), created in 1883 by sculptor Antonio Dal Zotto. Thanks to its location near the Rialto, it is nearly always crowded and is a popular meeting point for visitors and locals alike. It is lined with smart boutiques and restaurants fronting elegant, ocher-tinged Venetian townhouses and just a step away from the city’s upmarket shopping district of Mercerie, whose narrow streets link the Rialto Bridge with Piazza San Marco.
Practical Info
Campo San Bartolomeo, Castello, Venice. Ferry to Rialto.
Address: Campo San Bartolomeo, Castello, Venice, Veneto, Italy
From $ 30
Church of San Vidal
A short walk from the banks of the Grand Canal, the elegant Church of San Vidal is one of Venice’s lesser-visited churches, now best known as a concert venue. The church dates back as early as the 11th-century, but its remarkable classical façade is the result of a 17th-century reconstruction by architect Antonio Gaspari.
For most visitors, the main reason to visit is to attend one of the regular Baroque music concerts performed by the acclaimed Interpreti Veneziani ensemble, but additional highlights include impressive artworks by Piazzetta, Carpaccio and Pallegrini.
Practical Info
The Church of San Vidal is located close to the banks of the Grand Canal in San Marco, Venice, and is open Monday-Saturday from 9am-5:30pm. There is no admission fee, although advance tickets are needed to attend a concert.
Address: Campiello San Vidal, Venezia, Italy
Hours: Mon-Sat 9am-5:30pm
From $ 39
Church of St Maria Assunta (Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta)
On the island of Torcello in the Venetian lagoon sits one of the most important churches in Venice - the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta. Torcello itself is the site of one of the earliest settlements on the Venetian islands, so it has enormous historical importance. The cathedral itself is one of the oldest structures in Venice.
The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta dates from the 7th century, although most of what you see today was built in the 9th, 11th, 12th and 14th centuries. The 11th- and 12th-century renovations in the Byzantine style include some stunning mosaic pieces on the interior walls in what’s called the Byzantine-Ravennate school. If you’ve visited St. Mark’s Basilica in Venice and liked the colorful mosaics there, then you’ll love seeing the mosaics in the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta—in the same style, but older.
The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta dates from the 7th century, although most of what you see today was built in the 9th, 11th, 12th and 14th centuries. The 11th- and 12th-century renovations in the Byzantine style include some stunning mosaic pieces on the interior walls in what’s called the Byzantine-Ravennate school. If you’ve visited St. Mark’s Basilica in Venice and liked the colorful mosaics there, then you’ll love seeing the mosaics in the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta—in the same style, but older.
Practical Info:
There’s not much to do or see on Torcello, so follow the path from the
vaporetto dock all the way to the end, where you’ll find the cathedral.
It’s open March–October from 10:30am–6pm, and November–February from
10am–5pm. Admission is €5 (€8 if you also want to visit the accompanying
museum). You can also climb into the bell tower for views over the
lagoon.
Address: Campo San Donato, 11, Venice, Province of Venice 30141, Italy
From $ 23
Ca' d'Oro (Palazzo Santa Sofia)
When floating down Venice’s Grand Canal, the Ca' d'Oro—so named for the gold-leaf details that once adorned its Gothic-style exterior—is sure to catch your eye. This 15th-century Venetian masterpiece, also known as Palazzo Santa Sofia, is home to a lavish collection of art and furnishings, and offers gorgeous canal views.
The Basics
The Ca' d'Oro (House of Gold or Golden House) was built by Venetian architects Giovanni Bon and Bartolomeo Bon for the Contarini family in 1430, and purchased centuries later by Baron Giorgio Franchetti, who bequeathed the palace and its contents to the Italian State in 1916. Palazzo Santa Sofia is now home to Galleria Giorgio Franchetti alla Ca' d'Oro and holds the baron’s impressive art collection—including paintings by Tiziano, Jan Van Eyck, and Van Dyck—along with furniture, medals, and tapestries. You can explore the interior and its collection, and savor the palazzo’s captivating canal views from its front loggia.
Palazzo Santa Sofia is one of Venice’s most famous palazzi, and the highlight of any boat tour or gondola ride along the Grand Canal. Many private tours of Venice include a stop at the Ca' d'Oro along with the Doge’s Palace, Rialto Bridge, and St. Mark’s Basilica; booking a tour that includes skip-the-line tickets is essential in the summer months.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Ca' d'Oro houses temporary exhibits that run during the year for an additional entrance fee.
- Most of the palazzo is accessible to wheelchair users, though there are a number of steps to access the loggias that overlook the Grand Canal.
- Large bags, backpacks, and umbrellas must be left in the cloakroom.
How to Get There
The Ca' d'Oro is located along the Grand Canal in Venice’s Cannaregio neighborhood. Take vaporetto line 1 from Piazza San Marco to the Ca' d'Oro stop.
When to Get There
Venice is one of the most popular destinations in Italy, and the city’s main sights can be crowded, especially in summer. Ca' d'Oro is particularly busy on the first Sunday of each month, when entry to the art museum is free.
The "Vandalism" of Ca' d'Oro
In the 19th century, ballet dancer Marie Taglioni briefly owned Palazzo Santa Sofia. She infamously destroyed a priceless Gothic stairway and balconies overlooking the inner courtyard in an act that many art historians consider nothing less than vandalism.
Address: Sestriere of Cannaregio 3932, Venice 30121, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 18
Correr Civic Museum (Museo Civico Correr)
Dedicated to the art and history of Venice, Correr Civic Museum (Museo Correr) holds objects from the city’s past, including neoclassical sculptures, books, medallions, documents, paintings, musical instruments, and Greek and Roman statues. Located in the ornate palaces lining St. Mark’s Square, the museum includes neoclassical rooms decorated in the period’s opulent style.
The Basics
Set in the 16th-century Procuratie Nuove and 19th-century Napoleonic Wing on St. Mark’s Square, the Correr Civic Museum is home to an extensive collection of Venice artifacts. Sculptures by Antonio Canova and sumptuous Imperial Rooms used by the Hapsburgs during their residency in Venice share space with relics of the Venetian republic, including model ships, maps, and weaponry.
Due to the size and scope of its collections, the Correr Civic Museum is best visited with a guide who can explain the museum’s architecture and art. You can join a private tour of the museum, or take a more general tour that includes skip-the-line entrance to St. Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale), and all three St. Mark’s Square museums (Correr Civic Museum, National Archaeological Museum, and Marciana National Library).
Things to Know Before You Go
- Tickets to Correr Civic Museum allow entrance to Doge’s Palace, the National Archaeological Museum, and Marciana National Library.
- The museum entrance is inside the building and up a staircase. Wheelchair users can access it via elevator but should contact the museum in advance to arrange assistance.
- Large bags and backpacks must be left at the free coat check at the entrance.
- Restrooms, a cafe, and a gift shop are located inside the museum.
How to Get There
The main entrance to the Correr Civic Museum is via the monumental staircase in the Napoleonic Wing on St. Mark’s Square. Vaporetto (water bus) lines 1 and 2 stop nearby.
When to Get There
Expect crowds in Venice during summer, with spring or fall seeing fewer visitors. The museum can be a welcome respite from the crush in St. Mark’s Square and is open daily with no midday closing.
The Drawing Room of Europe
St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco) is the geographic and cultural heart of Venice. It’s home to St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace at one end and the bell tower in the center. The colonnaded arcade topped by the Procuratie palaces and Napoleonic Wing lines three sides. The square is one of the most popular spots in the city to relax at an outdoor table with a drink and soak in the Venetian atmosphere.
Address: San Marco 52, Venice 30124, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 28
Campo Santa Margherita
The most famous square in Venice is that of St Mark, but if you're in the Dorsoduro sestiere, you should head for the Campo Santa Margherita—one of Venice's largest public squares.
The Campo was named for a church on the square, although that building is now used as a university lecture theater. It’s still worth a visit, though, and so is the “scuola” of Santa Maria dei Carmini. There is a regular outdoor market held in the square, as well as a supermarket that opens for visitors to wander through. But the Campo Santa Margherita is primarily known as a lovely place to relax during the day and as a hub of Venetian nightlife after the sun sets. There are several bars and cafes lining the streets.
Practical Info
The Campo Santa Margherita is in the Dorsoduro sestiere, a 10- to 15-minute walk from both the Piazzale Rome and the train station. To see the square at its most lively, visit in the evening for a pre-dinner drink.
Address: Dorsoduro, Venice, Italy
From $ 22
Dorsoduro
Most visitors to Venice head directly to the San Marco district, but if you want to enjoy the quieter side of the city, don’t miss Dorsoduro. Home to important art collections, excellent restaurants, beautiful churches, and impressive architecture, the neighborhood has it all—with a fraction of the crowds.
The Basics
Dorsoduro, one of the six Venetian districts (sestieri) in the city center, is located just across the Grand Canal from the more touristy San Marco. Walk across the wooden Accademia Bridge and along the canal to the Gallerie dell’Accademia—home to masterpieces by Titian, Tiepolo, and Veronese—and the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, famous for its modern art. The 18th-century Ca' Rezzonico museum is one of the most sumptuous in the city, and the Church of San Sebastiano and Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute are among the most ornate.
To really get a feel for Dorsoduro, join a walking tour led by a local guide who’s familiar with the district’s big-name landmarks and secret corners. Pair a Dorsoduro tour with a gondola ride or a Venice highlights tour that includes St. Mark's Basilica, the Doge's Palace, and the Rialto Bridge.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Tours of Dorsoduro require a bit of walking, so wear comfortable shoes and a sun hat.
- Because of the thinner crowds and outdoor spaces, the Dorsoduro district is easier to manage with kids.
- This district is known for its excellent restaurants serving traditional Venetian cuisine and cafés serving cicchetti, or Venetian-style tapas.
- If you’re looking to take an evening stroll, Fondamento della Zattere (along the Giudecca Canal) and the Campo Santa Margherita square are both great destinations at night.
How to Get There
Dorsoduro, just across the Grand Canal from San Marco, is easily reached by walking over the Accademia Bridge.
When to Get There
With views of San Marco to one side and the island of Giudecca to the other, Dorsoduro is particularly beautiful at night, just as the sun is setting. Plan to tour its sights by day and then linger at its restaurants and cafés after dark.
Venice's Six Sestieri
Venice has six districts—Castello, Cannaregio, Dorsoduro, San Marco, Santa Croce, and San Polo—in addition to the outlying districts of Lido and Giudecca and Lido and the islands of Torcello, Murano, and Burano.
Address: Sestiere di Dorsoduro, Venezia 30100, Italy
From $ 35
Bridge of Sighs
As poignant as it is beautiful, Venice’s 17th-century, white-limestone Bridge of Sighs (Ponte dei Sospiri) spans the narrow Rio di Palazzo canal between the interrogation rooms in the Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale) and the New Prisons just opposite. It’s one of the most famous bridges in the Floating City.
The Basics
The Bridge of Sighs is one of the most photographed sights in Venice. Its ornate stonework design was created in 1603 by Antonio Contino, nephew of the architect who designed the Rialto Bridge. The structure got its name from the tale that asserts convicts who passed through the covered bridge from their interrogation to their prison cell would let out mournful sighs when catching their final glimpse of Venice through the barred windows. You can sigh over this same view while walking over the bridge during a tour of the Doge's Palace, the only way to make the crossing.
Both the palace and St. Mark's Basilica host millions of visitors each year, so it is important to book a guided tour for skip-the-line access, saving hours of time in long lines. Joining a small-group walking tour is an excellent way to see the highlights in and around St. Mark's Square, accompanied by a tour guide who can explain this fascinating city's history and architecture.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Bridge of Sighs is most striking as seen from the outside. From St. Mark's Square, walk around the corner of Doge’s Palace along the Grand Canal; as you cross the first bridge, look to your left. Otherwise, for a more romantic (and less crowded) view, take a gondola ride under the iconic bridge.
- For an even deeper dive into the political history of the Republic of Venice, consider an official Doge’s Palace Secret Itineraries tour, which includes visits to some of the historic governmental halls deep inside the palace.
- Large backpacks, bags, and umbrellas are not allowed inside; there is a free cloakroom near the palace entrance.
- Parts of Doge’s Palace, including the Secret Itineraries route and Bridge of Sighs, are not wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
S. Zaccaria is the closest vaporetto stop to Piazza San Marco. Venice is one of the most popular destinations in Italy and well-connected by train to Rome, Florence, and Milan.
When to Get There
Doge's Palace is among the most visited sights in Venice and can get unpleasantly full of tourists during the peak midday hours. Booking a skip-the-line tour is imperative during the months of April through October and also recommended even during winter , the least crowded time to visit.
Lord Byron and the Bridges of Sighs
Much of the Bridge of Sighs’ fame is due to poet Lord Byron (1788–1824), who mentioned it in his long narrative poem Childe Harold's Pilgrimage.
Address: Doges Palace, Venice 30124, Italy
Hours: Open Summer 9am - 7pm (until 6pm in Winter)
Admission: Varies
From $ 23
Burano
Venice is made up of a group of islands that is crowded with opulent churches and sumptuous palaces. The humble island of Burano, though, in the outer reaches of the Venetian lagoon, shows a completely different side of the city, with its jumble of technicolor fishers’ houses and a long tradition of lace-making.
The Basics
Join a guided tour of the Venetian islands and stroll through the winding streets of this charming island to admire the brightly painted houses and watch a lace-making demonstration. A private tour of Burano, Murano, and Torcello islands is a fascinating way to explore the less famous corners of the Floating City by boat.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A boat trip to Burano is a must for photography buffs, who will love capturing the vibrant colors.
- Venice island tours require getting on and off a boat, so confirm wheelchair and stroller accessibility ahead of time.
- Burano lace, like Murano glass, is made entirely by hand and is very expensive. Don't be fooled by cheap industrial knock-offs sold at many souvenir shops.
- The island's main street is lined with souvenir shops, cafés, and restaurants.
How to Get There
From St. Mark's Square, take the 5.2 vaporetto from the San Zaccaria stop to Fondamente Nove, then transfer to the 12 to Burano. Boats run until late, but if you miss the last vaporetto, you’ll have to take what may be an expensive water taxi back to Venice.
When to Get There
Though the small islands outside Venice are less visited than sights like St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace, they can still get quite crowded. The best time to visit is in early spring or late fall. If you’re there in summer, head to Burano first thing in the morning.
Visiting Burano and Murano
Burano is often mistaken for Murano, the island known for its long history of glass blowing. You can easily visit both in a single day on a tour that combines them both. You’ll want to see Burano for the photo opportunities and lace-making and Murano for the glass-making demonstrations in the island's many glass factories.
Address: Burano, Italy
Admission: Free
From $ 23
Campo San Luca
A bustling square at the heart of Venice’s historic center, Campo San Luca has long been a popular meeting point for locals, and its constant stream of visitors make it a lively hub both day and night.
Home to a cluster of shops, cafés and restaurants, Campo San Luca makes a good spot for people-watching, but it’s also an important navigational landmark, just a short stroll from the Grand Canal and the Rialto Bridge, en route to Piazza San Marco.
Practical Info
Campo San Luca is located in central Venice, close to the Grand Canal and the Rialto Bridge.
Address: San Marco District, Venice, Italy
From $ 23
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
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
Dolomites
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Dolomites mountain range comprises almost 20 spectacular peaks topping 10,000 feet (3,000 meters) in the Alpine region of Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol, which straddles the Italian-Austrian border. The scenery is staggering in both summer and winter, and includes the dramatic Tre Cime di Lavaredo pinnacles, the emerald-green Lake Misurina and Lake Santa Caterina, the elegant Cortina d'Ampezzo ski resort, and idyllic mountain villages such as Pieve di Cadore.
The Basics
In addition to being one of the most popular ski destinations in Europe, the Dolomites are also known for summer activities such as mountain climbing, Alpine hiking, mountain biking, paragliding, and hang gliding. Visitors can join a small-group driving tour from Venice to explore the many gorgeous drives through the Dolomites without the stress of having to navigate the winding mountain roads. Upon arrival in the region, small-group and private walking and hiking tours are also excellent ways to explore in summer, with plenty of photo opportunities and a tour guide who can pick a trail suited to individual skill levels. Cable cars transport travelers up to the trailheads, ski slopes, and lodges year-round.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Many top trails in the Dolomites are for advanced hikers, though there are also easier routes. Wear clothing and footwear suitable for the weather, and bring water.
- For train buffs, the historic narrow-gauge Renon railway and the Brennero railway are considered the most scenic in Italy.
- To sample traditional cuisine, stop for a meal at a rifugio, or refuge mountain lodge.
How to Get There
Most visitors depart from Venice for a day trip or a longer stay in this part of the Italian Alps. The nearest airports are in Venice or Treviso, and there are airport shuttles directly to the ski resorts in winter. You can drive or take the train from Venice too.
When to Get There
The Dolomites are spectacular year-round. In winter, you can ski, snowshoe, or hike the winter trails. In summer, visitors hike, tour the countryside, and explore the area’s many villages.
The Multicultural Dolomites
The Dolomite mountains were part of Austria until after the World War I, and residents here still identify with Germanic history. In addition, the ancient Ladin people, who have their own separate culture and language, have been living among these mountains for centuries.
Address: Italy
From $ 179
Ca' Rezzonico
Of all the sumptuous palaces lining Venice’s Grand Canal, Ca’ Rezzonico is arguably the most magnificent. An outstanding example of Venetian baroque and rococo architecture and décor, this palace and its museum offer a glimpse into the extravagances of 18th-century Venice.
The Basics
Started by Baldassare Longhena and completed more than a century later by Giorgio Massari, Ca' Rezzonico was owned by one of the Venetian aristocracy's most prominent families; in the same year that Giambattista Rezzonico was finishing work on the palace, his brother Carlo was elected Pope. The intricate canal-side facade is decorated with arcades, porticoes, and arched windows, while the interior features marble staircases, gilded apartments, Murano glass chandeliers, and ballrooms covered in frescoes and trompe l’oeil by Venetian artists such as Giambattista Tiepolo, Pietro Longhi, Giovanni Battista Crosato, and Pietro Visconti. Today, the palace is home to the Museum of 18th-Century Venice, with a collection of furniture and decorations; paintings by Canaletto, Tintoretto, Cima da Conegliano, and others; and frescoes by Giandomenico Tiepolo and Antonio Guardi.
Because of its size and scope, the best way to see Ca' Rezzonico is with a private tour that combines the museum with other highlights in the city of Venice, including St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace. A visit to Ca' Rezzonico is also often included in boat tours of the Grand Canal.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Ca' Rezzonico contains almost 20 rooms on three floors, so be prepared to spend some time on your feet and wear comfortable shoes.
- The third floor contains the 18th-century interiors of the Ai Do San Marchi pharmacy, which was once located in Campo San Stin.
- Ca' Rezzonico is wheelchair accessible.
- Large bags, backpacks, and umbrellas must be left at the coat check.
How to Get There
Ca' Rezzonico is located along the Grand Canal in the Dorsoduro neighborhood; take vaporetto (water bus) 1 from Piazza San Marco or the Santa Lucia train station to the Ca' Rezzonico stop.
When to Get There
Like all Venice museums, Ca' Rezzonico can be very crowded in summer. The best time to visit is from late fall to early spring. The museum is closed on Tuesdays.
Artists and Poets in the Palace
In the 1880s, the palace was owned by English painter Robert Barrett Browning, son of poet Robert Browning, who died there in 1889. The American painter John Singer Sargent also had an apartment in the palazzo during that time.
Address: Dorsoduro, 3136, Venice, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 12
Church of Santa Maria dei Miracoli
With its multi-colored marble façade and striking round windows, the small-yet-beautiful Church of Santa Maria dei Miracoli is one of the most important examples of early Renaissance architecture in Venice. It’s also a highlight of the historic Cannaregio neighborhood along the Miracoli Canal.
The Basics
This early Renaissance church was built in the late 15th century to honor of a sacred icon of the Virgin Mary that was said to have performed a number of miracles. Renaissance architect Pietro Lombardo's use of polychrome marble, sculpted pilasters, and ornate reliefs lends a distinct grandeur to the exterior and interior, where the fabled icon still stands proudly on display.
Because of its architectural importance, it's best to visit Santa Maria dei Miracoli as part of a Venice art and architecture private tour. Many private walking tours stop also stop here, along with other famous sights like St. Mark's Basilica, the Doge's Palace, and the Rialto Bridge.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Art and architecture tours generally involve some walking, so wear comfortable shoes and a sun hat.
- Church of Santa Maria dei Miracoli is mostly wheelchair accessible, although the main altar, by Pietro Lombardo, is located up a flight of steps.
- Filled with pretty squares and quiet backstreets, the surrounding neighborhood of Cannaregio is one of Venice's most delightful.
- If you’re planning to tour the interior of the church, be sure to wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
How to Get There
The Chiesa di Santa Maria dei Miracoli is located on the Miracoli Canal at Ponte dei Miracoli. Take vaporetto (water bus) line 1 or 2 from San Marco or the train station down the Grand Canal to the Rialto stop near the Rialto Bridge, then walk north along the Miracoli Canal.
When to Get There
Venice is one of the most popular destinations in Italy, and the city can be especially touristy in summer. Time your visit to late fall or early spring to enjoy the city without the crowds.
Holy Leftovers
It’s said that the pastel-colored marble used for the facade of Santa Maria dei Miracoli was taken from leftover construction materials after the completion of St. Mark's Basilica, also in Venice.
Address: Cannaregio, Venezia 6074, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 70
Campo Santa Maria Formosa
In the Castello neighborhood of Venice is Campo Santa Maria Formosa, a lively piazza named after the 15th-century church that sits in the area. The structure has two facades, each representing two different architectural styles, with its more ornate Baroque façade opening up onto the square.
Campo Santa Maria Formosa also includes the 13th-century Palazzo Vitturi and the 17th-century Palazzo Ruzzini, both of which are now hotels that have largely kept many of their original elements. Visitors are likely to see locals shopping in the area, as well as children playing in the square.
Practical Info
Campo Santa Maria Formosa is located in the Castello district and sits to the northeast of St Mark's Basilica and only minutes from the Rialto Bridge.
Address: Castello District, Venice, Italy
From $ 29
Brenta Riviera
An ancient waterway connecting the Italian cities of Padua and Venice, the channel of the Brenta Riviera dates back to the 16th century and was built to flow directly into the lagoon of Venice. The green space lining the canal inspired many wealthy Venetians to build villas along its waterfront, and some still remain open for exploration today. These country homes often served as second residences for Venice’s noble families — far enough away to enjoy a countryside atmosphere but close enough to return quickly to Venice.
Not just any second home, many of the Brenta Riviera villas are more like monuments or palaces complete with exquisite works of art and large frescoes. The amount of villas, gardens, and residences lining the canals built up to a point where it was nearly considered an extension of Venice’s Grand Canal. Many of the villas can be visited still today, including the Villa Foscari and the Villa Pisani — which has gardens, an art collection, and a famous maze.
Practical info
The Brenta Riviera is best accessed by boat from either Padua or Venice. There are many famous towns, such as Stra and Mira, to stop in along the way.
Address: Venice, Italy
From $ 58
Frari Church
Frari Church, whose official name is Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari, is one of the grandest churches in Venice. It sits in the San Polo district on the Campo dei Frari and is dedicated to the Assumption of Mary. The church contains many Renaissance masterpieces and monuments to Renaissance artists and sculptors. It was built in an Italian Gothic style, and visitors will notice the plain exterior. This was intentional as it emphasizes the Franciscan values of poverty and austerity.
Inside you can see Titian's Madonna di Ca' Pesaro in the left aisle, which was modeled after his wife who died in childbirth. Over the main alter is Titian's Assumption of the Virgin. This piece is famous for its innovative style and bright colors, though at the time, the church was hesitant to accept the piece because of these features. Titian's tomb is in the church. Other notable artwork that can be seen in Frari Church includes Giovanni Bellini's Madonna and Child with Saints, Bartolomeo Vivarini's altarpiece St. Mark Enthroned and Saints John the Baptist, Jerome, Peter, and Nicholas, and Donatello's John the Baptist.
Practical Info
Frari Church is located at Campo dei Frari. Opening hours are 9am to 6pm Monday to Saturday and 1pm to 6pm on Sunday.
Address: San Polo, Venice, Italy
From $ 80