Choose from 58 Fun Things to Do in Venice
ShowingFilter 41-58 of 58 listings.
Santa Maria della Salute
With its ornate facade and towering dome, the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute is one of the most beautiful sights along Venice’s Grand Canal. Known simply as La Salute, the church dominates the mouth of the canal and its steps seem to rise directly from the water, inviting visitors to explore its soaring interior.
The Basics
This baroque church, designed by Baldassare Longhena, was built in the 17th century and dedicated to the Virgin Mary, or Our Lady of Health, for having brought a stop to a devastating plague outbreak that killed a third of the Venetian population in the early 1600s. You can view its grandeur during a gondola ride or luxury motorboat cruise on the canal, or stop in to admire the Byzantine-influenced interior—with its exquisite mosaic floor and impressive artwork by Tintoretto and Titian—during a Venice walking tour. Private tours often combine a stop at La Salute with other famous sights like St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace in St. Mark’s Square, and the Rialto Bridge (Ponte di Rialto).
Things to Know Before You Go
- Be sure to bring your camera if taking a gondola or speedboat cruise up the Grand Canal to snap pictures of Santa Maria della Salute along with other canalside landmarks.
- If you’re planning to visit the interior of the church, wear modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
- Walking tours of Venice cover a lot of ground, so wear comfortable shoes and sun protection.
- There is a flight of steps to enter La Salute, so the church is not accessible to wheelchairs.
How to Get There
From Piazza San Marco, take a water taxi or vaporetto (water bus) to the Salute stop. You can also walk across the Ponte dell’Accademia, weaving your way through Venice’s beautiful alleys to the church.
When to Get There
One of the most picturesque festivals in Italy takes place each year on November 21, when Venice celebrates the Festa di Santa Maria della Salute. The city builds a temporary bridge across the Grand Canal to the church for pilgrims and holds a boat procession in honor of the Virgin Mary. Try to schedule a visit around this time to see the festivities. The church closes each day from noon to 3pm, so be sure to stop by in the early morning or late afternoon to visit when the church is open yet not too crowded.
Exploring the Dorsoduro Neighborhood
Santa Maria della Salute is located in Venice’s Dorsoduro neighborhood, home to other important sights like Ca' Rezzonico, the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, and the Church of San Sebastiano.
Address: Fondamenta Salute, Venice 30123, Italy
From $ 26
Scuola of San Giovanni Evangelista
The Scuola of San Giovanni Evangelista is a confraternity of the church of San Giovanni Evangelista. This was an association of lay people dedicated to Christian beliefs and linked with the church. It was originally established in the church of San Aponal in 1261, making it the oldest of the six Great Schools of the former Republic of Venice, but it 1307 it was moved. The Scuola became famous in 1369 when the confraternity's Guardian Grande received the Relic of the Cross as a present. Many artists depicted this relic in paintings at the time.
During the 19th century, the Austrian government threatened to take the Scuola's beautiful marble floor. The Venetians organized to raise enough money to buy the building, saving it from being picked apart. They donated it to the world of art, and today it is an art museum where visitors can view its Hall of Columns, Monumental Staircase, the atrium, a variety of marble, and the works of art that decorate the walls.
Practical Info
Scuola of San Giovanni Evangelista is located on Calle de la Laca in the San Polo district.
Address: San Polo, 2454, Venice, Italy
Hours: Vary
Admission: €5
From $ 12
Santa Maria Formosa
The striking church of Santa Maria Formosa stands in a sleepy piazza of the same name and has seen several transformations since the founding of the original wooden church in 842. Dedicated to the Virgin Mary, it owes its present appearance to Renaissance architect Mauro Codussi, who was commissioned to rebuild the church nearly 400 years after it burnt down in 1106. Much of the work was finished after his death in 1504 and the church is almost unique for having two marble façades, one overlooking the Campo Santa Maria Formosa and the other facing the Rio (canal) del Novo Mondo. It has a freestanding Baroque campanile (bell tower) that was designed by the priest Francesco Zucconi in 1688, and a vast white marble dome, which was repaired in the same year following an earthquake and again in 1921 after Austria bombed Venice in World War I.
The restrained marble interior is laid out on a Greek cross plan and is largely the result of work commissioned by wealthy merchant Torrino Tononi in 1689; the main highlight of its three aisles is the luminous polyptych Santa Barbara by Palma il Vecchio above the main altar.
It is rumored that Santa Maria Formosa gets its strange name – ‘formosa’ translates as ‘comely’ or ‘buxom’ from Italian – from a well-endowed prostitute who lived in the neighborhood in the late 16th century.
Practical Info
Campo Santa Maria Formosa, Castello, Venice. Open Mon–Sat
10am–5pm. Admission €3. Ferry to Rialto or San Zaccaria.
Address: Campo Santa Maria Formosa, Castello, Venice, Veneto 30122, Italy
Hours: Mon–Sat 10am–5pm
Admission: €3
From $ 29
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
Villa Barbaro
Villa Barbaro, masterpiece of 16th-century Italian architect Andrea Palladio, is one of the most striking of Veneto’s UNESCO-listed Palladian villas. This group of elegant patrician residences are scattered in the hills between Vicenza and Treviso, and make for a fascinating day trip from Venice.
The Basics
The countryside surrounding Vicenza is dotted by dozens of stately villas with classical architecture and sweeping manicured gardens. Known as the Palladian Villas after their architect Andrea Palladio, these rural residences were constructed in the first half of the 16th century for a handful of wealthy families from the Venetian Republic. Villa Barbaro (also known as Villa di Maser), completed around 1558, is characterized by its Roman-inspired façade with four ionic columns, interior frescoes by Paolo Veronese, tempietto (chapel), and nymphaeum with elaborate stuccoes by Alessandro Vittoria.
Today, the villa estate includes a working farm and winery, and visitors can explore the sumptuous residence, view the carriage collection, and enjoy a wine tasting. Day trips from Venice to Villa Barbaro can also include stops in the picturesque medieval hill towns of Bassano del Grappa and Asolo, along with a prosecco tasting at an area winery.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Touring the villa and gardens requires a bit of walking, so wear comfortable shoes, a hat, and sunscreen.
- The villa is not accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
- Visitors are required to wear shoe coverings (provided) to protect the historic floors.
- Photography without flash is permitted inside the villa.
- There are public restrooms, a snack bar, and gift shop outside the villa.
How to Get There
The villa is located on Via Barbaro near the village of Maser, just over an hour from Venice by car. Arriving by public transportation involves multiple bus connections, so the most convenient way to visit is by joining a small-group or private tour that includes transportation.
When to Get There
One of the main draws of Villa Barbaro are the lovely grounds, which are in full bloom in spring and fall.
The Palladian Villas
The Veneto region is home to numerous Palladian Villas. Among the most famous are Villa La Rotonda, officially known as Villa Almerico Capra, which is an example of Palladio’s skill in blending architecture with the surrounding landscape; and Villa Emo, home to a fresco cycle by Giambattista Zelotti.
Address: Via Cornuda, 7, Maser, Veneto, Italy
From $ 179
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
St. Mark's Clock Tower (Torre dell'Orologio)
Sitting high above St. Mark’s Square and visible from the Grand Canal, the remarkable clock in St. Mark’s Clock Tower (Torre dell'Orologio) has served as Venice’s official timepiece for more than 500 years. Touring this historic symbol of the city is a highlight of any visit, not least for the sweeping views from the top of the tower.
The Basics
A unique landmark of Venetian architecture, St. Mark’s Clock Tower is part of a 15th-century building featuring the central tower thought to be designed by Mauro Codussi flanked by two shorter wings on either side. The clock mechanism has changed over time, with a later addition of panels with Roman numerals and Venice’s winged lion symbol, but the two large bronze figures that strike the hours on a bell, the copper statues of the Virgin and Child, and the clock face are all original. The clock displays not only the time of day but also the current zodiac sign and phase of the moon.
A visit to the clock tower is generally included in tours of the highlights of St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco), including St. Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale), and the bell tower; skip-the-line tickets are a must for these popular sights. Tours include an explanation of the internal clock mechanism and a climb to the top of the tower.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Venice clock tower tours must be booked in advance and are led by a specialized guide.
- Children under six years old are not allowed.
- Due to small spaces and steep stairs, the clock tower is not accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
St. Mark’s Clock Tower is located on the north side of St. Mark’s Square, in the center of Venice. The nearest vaporetto (water bus) stop is San Zaccaria.
When to Get There
Venice is one of the most popular destinations in Italy, and can be very crowded in the summer. The best time to visit is from October through March, when the sights around St. Mark’s Square are more pleasant to tour.
The Procession of the Three Magi
One of the most unique features of St. Mark’s Clock Tower is the procession of the three Magi—statues of the three Wise Men led by an angel that emerge from a small doorway to pass in front of the Virgin and Child statues. This happens only twice a year, on the Epiphany (January 6) and on Ascension Day (40 days after Easter Sunday).
Address: Piazza San Marco, Venice, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 18
Villa Foscari (La Malcontenta)
With its temple-like colonnaded façade flanked by weeping willows and bordering the glittering Venetian lagoon; the stunning setting of Villa Foscari begs to be photographed. The striking villa, also known as La Malcontenta, was built in 1559 for Nicolò and Alvise Foscari, and makes up one of a number of UNESCO World Heritage-listed Palladian villas.
The work of acclaimed architect, Andrea Palladio, Villa Foscari combines traditional Venetian, Greek and Roman architecture to give a palatial feel, aided by the villa’s elevated location, looking out over the Brenta River. The regal atmosphere continues inside, where visitors can admire magnificent frescoes from the likes of Battista Franco and Gian Battista Zelotti.
Practical Info
Villa Foscari is located on the Venetian Lagoon, around 15km west of Venice by road, and is open from May to October from 9am to midday (or by reservation). Admission is €10.
Address: Via dei Turisti, 9, Mira, Italy
Hours: May-Oct: Tues-Sat 9am-12pm or by reservation
Admission: €10
From $ 126
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
Venice Lido (Lido di Venezia)
The Venice Lido (Lido di Venezia), a long stretch of sand in the Venetian Lagoon, is an easy escape for a quick beach break, round of golf, bout of shopping, or leisurely meal. Along several water bus lines and just minutes from the center of Venice, sneaking away from the crushing crowds of St. Mark’s Square couldn’t be simpler.
The Basics
The Lido island’s northern half is home to the Venice Film Festival, a smattering of stylish hotels, the Venice Casino, and a host of restaurants and nightlife spots. Toward the island’s south, an impressive golf course welcomes visitors looking to get out on the green. In the center of the island are two large public beaches perfect for relaxing under the sun along Italy’s Adriatic Sea, and the Gran Viale Santa Maria Elisabetta, a popular destination for shopping, entertainment, and uninterrupted ocean views.
You can use a hop-on-hop-off Venice sightseeing boat tour to visit the Lido, or an Alilaguna boat transportation pass. Otherwise, opt for a private tour of Venice’s outlying islands, including Burano, Murano, Giudecca, and the Lido.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Most of the beach is reserved for guests of the Lido hotels; if you are not staying in one of these, head to the public beach at the end of the Gran Viale.
- Kids who need a break might enjoy a few hours of outdoor activities and water sports at the Lido beach.
- The vaporetto (water bus) services in Venice are all accessible to wheelchair users, though the city itself is a challenge to navigate.
How to Get There
You can reach the Lido by taking the vaporetto from Piazza San Marco that travels up the Grand Canal and getting off at the Santa Maria Elisabetta stop. Alternatively grab a private water taxi.
When to Get There
Venice gets very crowded during the summer months (from June to September), so if you want mild weather and smaller crowds, the best times to visit the area are spring and fall. The annual Venice Film Festival is held from late August to early September.
The Venice Lido Beach
The Lido beaches can be crowded in summer, but the water is clear and gentle due to a number of breakwaters sheltering the shoreline. The beach clubs are elegant and well outfitted, providing everything from “huts”—large cabins with a veranda and an awning—to simple deck chairs and umbrellas.
Address: Lido di Venezia, Italy
From $ 23
Teatro La Fenice
Of the many historic opera houses in Italy, few are more legendary than Venice’s Teatro La Fenice. Opened in 1792, the theater quickly became a major venue for opera and ballet. Today you can view the sumptuous 19th-century-style interiors during a musical or dance performance, or join a guided tour of the theater.
The Basics
La Fenice has a rather understated facade that belies the opulence within, and it’s an impressive sight whether or not you’re a fan of opera or ballet. A tour of this famous opera house is a must for any music lover, so consider joining a walking tour of Venice’s highlights that includes a stop at the theater to learn first-hand about its fascinating history and architecture. Of course, you can also soak in the elegant atmosphere by enjoying a concert, ballet, or opera during the performance season.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Purchase performance tickets in advance to ensure a seat.
- The theater boxes and gallery are accessible to wheelchairs.
- The dress code for opening or gala performances is semi-formal; regular performances is smart casual. Shorts or sleeveless t-shirts are not allowed.
- Photographs are allowed during theater tours but not performances.
- There is a cloakroom where large bags, umbrellas, and cameras must be left during performances.
How to Get There
Teatro La Fenice is located on the Campo San Fantin square in the heart of Venice. Take Vaporetto (public ferry) line 1 or 2 to the Rialto stop; from there, it’s a short walk to the theater.
When to Get There
Performances at the Teatro La Fenice run year-round. The theater is open for tours daily, though opening times may vary when there’s a rehearsal or performance scheduled.
The Rise of the Phoenix
The theater’s name, La Fenice—or “The Phoenix”—pays tribute to an earlier theater, owned by the same company, that burned down. Unfortunately, the name proved prescient—La Fenice burned down twice, first in 1836 and again in 1996. Both times, though, it was rebuilt.
Address: Campo San Fantin, 1965, Venice 30124, Italy
Admission: Varies
From $ 12
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
Madonna dell'Orto Church
The Church of the Madonna dell'Orto is a small church in Venice, built in the 14th century by a religious order that no longer exists. Roughly 100 years after it was built, it was taken over by a different congregation. After another 200 years, the church was again taken over by another religious order, and in 1787 the church fell under public administration.
The Madonna dell'Orto church was reopened in 1868 and has undergone several restorations in the 20th century. While the church is officially dedicated to Saint Christopher, it's most commonly known by its nickname, "Madonna dell'Orto" - "Madonna of the Orchard." The name comes from a statue of the Virgin Mary that was commissioned for a different church in the 15th century, rejected by that church, and left in a nearby orchard. The supposedly miraculous statue was brought to the church that would later bear its name, and the statue is still on display in the St. Mauro Chapel.
Artwork inside the Madonna dell'Orto includes work by Tintoretto, Bellini, and Molinari. Tintoretto is also buried in this church, which is in the Cannaregio sestiere.
The Madonna dell'Orto church was reopened in 1868 and has undergone several restorations in the 20th century. While the church is officially dedicated to Saint Christopher, it's most commonly known by its nickname, "Madonna dell'Orto" - "Madonna of the Orchard." The name comes from a statue of the Virgin Mary that was commissioned for a different church in the 15th century, rejected by that church, and left in a nearby orchard. The supposedly miraculous statue was brought to the church that would later bear its name, and the statue is still on display in the St. Mauro Chapel.
Artwork inside the Madonna dell'Orto includes work by Tintoretto, Bellini, and Molinari. Tintoretto is also buried in this church, which is in the Cannaregio sestiere.
Address: Cannareggio, 3512, Venice, Province of Venice 30121, Italy
From $ 75
Venice Jewish Ghetto (Campo del Ghetto)
Venice’s former Jewish ghetto (Campo del Ghetto Nuovo) is one of the most fascinating and poignant corners of the Floating City. The oldest Jewish ghetto in Italy is home to a number of 16th-century synagogues, the Jewish Museum, a small Holocaust memorial, and kosher restaurants and bakeries.
The Basics
The origins of the word ghetto can be traced back to Venice: gheto in Venetian means foundry and refers to the island where Venetian Jews were once confined after sunset by Venetian Republic decree. The area is divided into the Ghetto Nuovo (New Ghetto), and the adjacent Ghetto Vecchio (Old Ghetto), though the Ghetto Nuovo is actually the older of the two. Jews from across Europe settled in this neighborhood from the 16th to the 18th centuries, and each synagogue historically catered to a different nationality—German, Italian, Spanish, and Sephardic.
Today Campo del Ghetto Nuovo is still the center of the Venetian Jewish community and offers a glimpse into its history and culture. The ghetto’s Jewish Museum (Museo Ebraico) narrates local Jewish history with a collection of antique gold objects and textiles from ghetto artisans, historic religious texts and artifacts, and personal and household items from former residents. There is also a small Holocaust memorial in the neighborhood to honor the many residents deported during World War II. Book a Jewish ghetto walking tour with a guide to learn more about the ghetto, or pair your visit with a Cannaregio food tour or home cooking experience to explore local cuisine. The museum offers guided tours of the neighborhood’s historic synagogues, or you can book a private tour to view these historic places of worship more intimately.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Jewish ghetto is a must for those interested in Jewish culture and history.
- With its narrow streets and quiet square, the ghetto is one of Venice’s most pleasant historic walking areas—and a lovely spot to snap photographs.
- Jewish ghetto tours are on foot, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes.
- This area is also known for its excellent traditional kosher restaurants, so it’s a good place to stop for lunch or dinner.
How to Get There
The Jewish ghetto is in Venice’s Cannaregio neighborhood. Take the vaporetto (water bus) to the Ponte delle Guglie stop on the Fondamenta di Cannaregio.
When to Get There
As one of the main tourist destinations in Europe, Venice can be very crowded most of the year. To avoid the thickest throngs, visit in early spring or late fall. The December Hanukkah festivities in the historic ghetto, with music and celebrations with the traditional lighting of the menorah, make for a particularly beautiful time to visit.
Venice’s Historic Synagogues
The ghetto has five historic synagogues: the Schola Tedesca for the German community; the Schola Spagnola and the Schola Italiana for the Spanish and Italian communities, respectively; the Schola Levantina for the Sephardic community; and the Schola Canton, a private synagogue probably built by French emigrés.
Address: Campo del Ghetto, Cannaregio sestiere, Venice, Italy
From $ 52
Venice Islands
Venice is made up of over 100 small islands, but generally “the Venice islands” refers to the three most famous outlying islands in the Venetian lagoon: Murano, Burano, and Torcello. Murano, just north of Venice proper, has been the center of Venice’s famous glass-making industry since 1291, and the island’s expert glassblowers still handcraft stunning pieces of Murano glass today. Farther north, Burano has quiet canals lined with brightly painted fishermen’s houses and is home to Venice’s traditional lace artisans. Its neighboring island of Torcello, first settled in 452, is believed to be the first populated island in the Venetian lagoon.
The Basics
The only way to visit Venice’s islands is by boat. By far the best option for avoiding the hassle and delays of the vaporettos (ferries) is booking a private motorboat tour. Tours enable you to make the most of your time on each island—visiting the glass factories on Murano, lace-making demonstrations on Burano, and the historic sights on Torcello—without having to navigate the complicated and crowded interisland public transportation system. Choose a half-day sightseeing tour if you are pressed for time, or a more leisurely full-day Venice cruise to explore the Grand Canal and lagoon islands at a more relaxed pace.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Be sure to bring your camera to capture the picturesque glassblowing demonstrations on Murano and traditional lace-making on Burano.
- Murano glass and Burano lace are famous for their impeccable quality—and prices reflect that. Be wary of glass or lace shops that advertise “bargain” prices, which often means low-quality goods imported from outside Italy.
- Murano’s glass shops are known for their hard-sell techniques, so always book your Venice islands tour through a reputable company to avoid unpleasant strong-arming tactics.
How to Get There
From St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco), take vaporetto 4.1 from the San Zaccaria stop, or a private water taxi from the Grand Canal boat launch near the Doge’s Palace, to Murano. From there, local water buses or taxis run to Burano and Torcello.
When to Get There
The Venice islands are most crowded in summer. The crowds thin considerably from November through February, though chilly temperatures can mean a less pleasant boat trip across the lagoon.
Torcello in Literature
Over the decades, a number of famous artists, musicians, and Hollywood stars have spent time on the quiet island of Torcello. Ernest Hemingway, for one, wrote parts of “Across the River and into the Trees” during his stay on the island in 1948.
Address: Italy
From $ 21
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
Scuola Grande di San Rocco (Scuola of San Rocco)
The Scuola Grande di San Rocco was one of the many “Scuole Grandi” in Venice, typically established by the church for charitable purposes. The “Great School” of San Rocco was founded in the 15th century by a group of Venetian aristocrats, although other schools in Venice at the time were more egalitarian - there was no rule against lower classes joining.
The structure of these “Great Schools” was similar from building to building, with a large meeting hall on the main floor and more private meeting rooms on the upper floor. The Scuola di San Rocco was founded in 1478, but the building to house the confraternity wasn’t complete until 1560. The building that is still known as the Scuola of San Rocco is next to the church of San Rocco, from which the society took its name.
The main draw of a visit to the Scuola Grande di San Rocco is to see the many paintings by the master Tintoretto. He was commissioned to decorate the new building with his works soon after it was complete, and he worked on the project from 1564-1587. Some of Tintoretto’s best-known works are in the Scuola of San Rocco, along with paintings by Titian.
The structure of these “Great Schools” was similar from building to building, with a large meeting hall on the main floor and more private meeting rooms on the upper floor. The Scuola di San Rocco was founded in 1478, but the building to house the confraternity wasn’t complete until 1560. The building that is still known as the Scuola of San Rocco is next to the church of San Rocco, from which the society took its name.
The main draw of a visit to the Scuola Grande di San Rocco is to see the many paintings by the master Tintoretto. He was commissioned to decorate the new building with his works soon after it was complete, and he worked on the project from 1564-1587. Some of Tintoretto’s best-known works are in the Scuola of San Rocco, along with paintings by Titian.
Practocal Info:
The Grande Scuola di San Rocco is in the Cannaregio sestiere. The
building is open for tours from 9:30am-5:30pm, except for Christmas Day
and New Year’s Day. Admission is €10, which includes an audio-guide.
Address: Sestiere San Polo, 3054, Venice, Province of Venice 30125, Italy
Hours: Open 9:30am - 5:30pm Daily except Christmas and New Years.
Admission: Adult 10 EUR, 8 EUR for young/seniors, Free Children
From $ 22
Music Museum (Museo della Musica)
A nod to Venice's rich classical musical heritage, the small but fascinating Music Museum (Museo della Musica) is one of the city's little-known gems. Housed in the beautifully restored church of Chiesa di San Maurizio, the museum explores the art of violin making and the preservation of rare musical instruments.
The Basics
Visitors can learn more about Venice's most famous composer, Antonio Vivaldi, and gain insight into the city's violin-making legacy, but the most compelling aspect of this free museum are the instruments themselves, dating from the 17th to the 19th century. The collection includes a wide variety of string instruments, including violins, cellos, and harps, with highlights including a 19th-century lyre and an exquisite mandolin inlaid with mother-of-pearl. True lovers of classical music can combine a tour of this small museum with an evening concert in the nearby Church of San Vidal by the Interpreti Veneziani ensemble, which performs works by famous Italian and German baroque composers.
Things to Know Before You Go
- This specialty museum is one of the best in the city of Venice and especially worth a stop for musicians and music lovers.
- The Music Museum is not accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothing if visiting as part of a walking tour.
- Photography without flash is allowed inside the museum, though much of the collection is stored in glass cases so not easy to photograph.
How to Get There
The Music Museum (Museo della Musica) is located inside the Chiesa di San Maurizio (Church of San Maurizio) on Campo San Maurizio, a short walk from Piazza San Marco.
When to Get There
If visiting in the popular summer months, you can duck into the Music Museum to escape the crowds during the peak hours of midday and have a few minutes of quiet respite while enjoying the impressive collection.
Antonio Vivaldi
One of Italy's most famous musicians, Vivaldi was born in Venice in the 17th century and wrote a number of the most recognized pieces of classical music in the world, including The Four Seasons. His work greatly influenced later composers like Bach.
Address: Campo San Maurizio, Venice, Italy
From $ 39