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Venice   Travel Guide

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20 Best Things To Do in Venice

Losing yourself in Venezia's charm is easy, but there are an endless number of bucket list activities and century-old landmarks to see while you're there. Touring top attractions like St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace is a

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St. Mark's Basilica (Basilica di San Marco) St. Mark's Basilica (Basilica di San Marco)

This elaborate church sits on the popular piazza by the same name. The church was built in honor of St. Mark the Evangelist, whose remains were stolen in Alexandria, Egypt, by a couple crafty Venetians, intent on bringing him to rest in Venice. (What made them crafty? They smuggled the remains to Italy in barrels of pork fat.) 

Crafted from many different styles of architecture, today the basilica's opulence shines from nearly every corner – from the four full-size bronze horses that guard the entrance to thousands of square feet of mosaics to the Pala d'Oro — an elaborate altar piece commissioned in Byzantium by the Venetians. If you look closely at the center gable on the exterior of the basilica, you can even see a statue of St. Mark along with Venice's emblem: a lion with wings. 

Grand Canal Grand Canal free

U.S. News Insider Tip: You don't need to make a reservation for a gondola ride. Instead, speak with a gondolier in person the day you want to ride. You may be able to negotiate a lower price or longer ride if you're traveling during off-peak months, or if you find a gondolier along one of the side streets. – Holly D. Johnson

Considered to be the main street of Venice, the roughly 2-mile Grand Canal is one of the city's most popular and highly photographed attractions. Recent travelers recommend hiring a gondolier for a romantic row along the canal. If you're hoping to do this option, plan to fork over between 80 and 120 euros (about $87 to $132) for the ride.

Gondola Rides Gondola Rides

Taking a gondola ride is a must-do when you're visiting a city that rises directly from a network of canals. A relaxing journey on one of these light, flat-bottomed boats will help you admire the historic charm of Venice from a range of new angles, and to explore neighborhoods and buildings you won't see on foot.

You can prebook a Venice gondola ride online if you prefer, which typically costs at least $80 for two adults. Some of the best gondola tours you can book online come from companies like Walks of Italy , Venice Tours and The Roman Guy .

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Rialto Bridge (Ponte di Rialto) Rialto Bridge (Ponte di Rialto) free

Several centuries ago, if you wanted to cross the  Grand Canal , the Rialto Bridge was the only way. There are now four major bridges that cross the canal, but Rialto is by far the most famous.

The bridge's current incarnation is the handiwork of Antonio da Ponte, who beat out Michelangelo and Palladio for the job. Antonio da Ponte's name translates to "Anthony of the Bridge," and he built the Rialto Bridge entirely of Istrian stone after it collapsed multiple times from previous designs. Predicted to fail by critics, the bridge still stands and is considered an engineering marvel. 

Teatro La Fenice Teatro La Fenice

The  Teatro La Fenice is one of Italy's most popular opera houses, and one that has almost faced its demise from not one, but three big fires since opening in 1792. Locals and visitors alike joke at the name (which translates to Theater of the Phoenix), and how it has coincided with the theater's unfortunate history: like a phoenix rising from the ashes, La Fenice has lived on.

Although renovated in 1996, the historic opera house still has an Old World feel with decadent, intricately designed gold interiors outfitted with plush, red velvet chairs, making it the perfect setting to take in the auditory/visual pleasure of classic Italian opera. In addition to opera and musical performances, there are also a variety of dance – particularly ballet – performances scheduled throughout the year. For those with a tight itinerary, the theater offers day tours.

Torcello Torcello

Torcello is a northerly island in the Venetian lagoon that sits nearby Burano, another island and tourist hot spot. Torcello features a range of archaeological finds, including the so-called "Attila's Throne" and the Palazzo del Consiglio — the Gothic-style seat government of the island. The Museum of Torcello is also worth a visit according to past visitors, mainly due to its displays of early Christian artifacts and the other finds from the island.

Most tours to Torcello also include stops at the nearby islands of Burano and Murano, which are both known for their artisan crafts and glass blowing. These tours typically cost $25 to $40 per person and last six to seven hours. Each one includes boat transportation with several interesting stops that vary by tour operator.

Campanile di San Marco Campanile di San Marco

This particular bell tower was constructed in the early 20th century as a replica of the 16th-century original. The original structure provided the optimal setting for Galileo Galilei's presentation of the telescope; it also served as a stage for tight rope walkers who would humor the doge (the highest Venetian official at the time) with their feats during the Flight of the Angel celebration. Today's campanile is used for sightseers desiring a Venetian panorama – though one with few canal views, oddly, since most of the canals are obscured from its 324-foot height.

Most visitors say the attraction is well worth your time and makes for a great photo. To avoid crowds, travelers say it's best to go early in the morning or later in the evening. If you join one of the best Venice tours , you'll likely pass by the iconic landmark on your jaunt through the city.

St. Mark's Square (Piazza San Marco) St. Mark's Square (Piazza San Marco) free

St. Mark's Square, or  Piazza San Marco , is considered by many to be the heart of Venice. As the largest square in Venice, St. Mark's Square is the only piazza in the city. Lining the square are multiple historical sites including  St. Mark's Basilica ,  St. Mark's Campanile  and  Doge's Palace , as well as a number of restaurants, making it the perfect spot for leisurely people-watching and wine sipping. The square even has a handful of dueling piano bars that let you sit down and relax in a decadent setting, although the cost of food and drink at any of them is exorbitant.

Along with intricate architecture and hearty plates of spaghetti carbonara, visitors will be met with throngs of tourists, pigeons and vendors selling souvenirs. If you hoped to pick up a gondola hat or a carnival mask during your trip, this is the place you will find them.

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Bridge of Sighs Bridge of Sighs free

Centuries ago, the Bridge of Sighs, which connects the  Doge's Palace  to dungeons, was used to transport prisoners from the courtroom to the prisons. Legend has it that the Bridge of Sighs, or  Ponte dei Sospiri , was named for the sighs prisoners like Giacomo Casanova would utter as they took one last look at the outside world through the bridge's windows as they made their way to prison for good. On a much lighter note, Venetian lore says if two lovers kiss on a gondola under the bridge, they'll be granted eternal bliss. 

Recent travelers offer mixed reviews on the Bridge of Sighs. Those who enjoyed it appreciated the details of the architecture and unique placement of the bridge, saying it was a nice photo-op, especially while the gondolas passed underneath it. Those who weren't as smitten noted its lack of accessibility as the main drawback, saying that merely looking at the bridge was underwhelming. Other disgruntled visitors pointed out that the number of tourists, combined with the small amount of viewing space, made the bridge barely visible. For a better viewing experience, consider tagging along on one of the best Venice tours .

Santa Maria della Salute Santa Maria della Salute free

The Santa Maria della Salute was built to celebrate the end of the plague in 1631 and is dedicated to Our Lady of Health. Nowadays, many will recognize this magnificent Roman Catholic Church as the backdrop for many photos of Venice. There's a good chance you'll see it whether you take the time to go inside or not – at least from a distance. In fact, you can easily see the Santa Maria della Salute over the Grand Canal from Piazza San Marco . The church itself stands out due to its white marble facade and the 125 statues that adorn it, but there's much to see and explore inside.

The basilica features famous paintings by Titian and Tintoretto, as well as a remarkable sculpture called The Queen of Heaven Expelling the Plague. A 13th-century version of the painting "Madonna and Child" is also found within the basilica.

Doge's Palace (Palazzo Ducale) Doge's Palace (Palazzo Ducale)

Views from the Venetian Lagoon give the Doge's Palace an ethereal look – almost like it's floating on top of water. But it's fitting, as the Doge's Palace (or  Palazzo Ducale ) has witnessed an intriguing history in its role as the residence of the doge (leader), the seat of government and the palace of justice. Everything from execution orders to the affairs of Venetian leaders was carried out here; and a web of secret passageways and hidden doors reveals a decidedly mysterious past.

Along with the attraction's historical significance, Doge's Palace is located in the busy St. Mark's Square , which means it sees a lot of foot traffic. It isn't uncommon to see a line wrapping around the building, so book your tickets in advance, and if you can't do that, arrive right when it opens to avoid crowds.

Academy Gallery (Gallerie dell'Accademia) Academy Gallery (Gallerie dell'Accademia)

Originally an academy, this building was later turned into the Galleria dell'Accademia museum by none other than Napoléon. Today, it's filled with an expansive collection of Venetian art from the 14th to the 18th century by artists such as Bellini, Tintoretto and Veronese. 

If you enjoy art – especially Renaissance art – then you'll probably enjoy this museum. If not, you might be disappointed. Travelers who enjoyed this museum were primarily self-proclaimed art enthusiasts, while those who didn't identify as such reported being a bit bored.

Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari

The Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari, sometimes referred to simply as Frari , is a gothic-style church that was finished in the 14th century. The exterior is minimal in comparison to  Saint Mark's Basilica  because the Franciscans who built it wanted the building to emulate their beliefs on living a life of poverty. The interior, however, is a different story. Inside, you'll see works by Titian, Bellini and Vivarini, among other famous artists, and all for a cheaper price than the city's art museums.

Recent visitors appreciated the minimal entrance fee and the fact that it sits away from the frenzy of the Piazza San Marco . Others admired its intricate interiors, as well as its bevy of artworks, calling the church a "must-see."

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Jewish Ghetto (Ghetto Ebraico di Venezia) Jewish Ghetto (Ghetto Ebraico di Venezia) free

In 1516, Jews in Venice were forced to move to a small northwestern section of the island. Considered to be the world's first ghetto, residents were only allowed to leave the neighborhood during the day and were then locked up at night and guarded. Today, this area is a part of the Cannaregio  sestiere (district) and is filled with restaurants and shops (some offering kosher products) and several synagogues, which are open for touring. Although it's free to wander around the neighborhood – and you might want to do just that – the synagogue tours do cost .

For a deeper understanding of the ghetto's history, recent travelers recommend booking a walking tour; some of the best Venice tours include stops here. Several water bus lines stop near the neighborhood, but you can also reach it on foot. 

Peggy Guggenheim Collection Peggy Guggenheim Collection

Expat American art collector Peggy Guggenheim dedicated her life to gathering this impressive body of 20th-century contemporary art. The collection, which is housed in the Palazzo Venier dei Leoni on the  Grand Canal  (also Peggy's former home), contains works by artists such as Magritte, Picasso, Pollock, Chagall and Dalí. In the sculpture garden, you can pay your respects to Peggy herself (she was laid to rest on the property), as well as her beloved dogs, who are buried beside her.

Many travelers agree the Peggy Guggenheim Collection is well worth the visit. Some visitors were keen to point out that getting to know Peggy's life, on top of seeing the exceptional art, made the experience more unique than merely visiting a museum. Others who also enjoyed the museum said its modern collection is a nice break from the traditional Renaissance paintings often seen in Venetian museums. 

Correr Civic Museum (Museo Civico Correr) Correr Civic Museum (Museo Civico Correr)

The Correr Civic Museum, also known as the Museo Correr, is a large museum that displays art and artifacts from Venice's history as well as the former royals' quarters. If you're also planning to visit Doge's Palace  (the former government seat and leader's residence), the standard ticket includes entry to this attraction.

Those who visited the museum said they were pleasantly surprised at how much they enjoyed the stop, considering it wasn't on their must-see list (though they recommend you add it to yours). Others enjoyed the museum's peace and quiet and said it's a great escape from the crowds in Piazza San Marco . Reviewers were also pleased with the on-site cafe.

Ponte dell'Accademia Ponte dell'Accademia free

Ponte dell'Accademia is one of the four bridges that crosses the Grand Canal in Venice. While not as famous as the Rialto Bridge , its wooden structure makes it truly unique from other Grand Canal bridges in Venice that are made of metal or stone. It crosses the southern end of the canal where it connects the Dorsoduro and San Marco neighborhoods. Consider stopping by the Gallerie dell’Accademia or the Peggy Guggenheim Collection before or after viewing the bridge, as both are nearby.

Visitors say this bridge not nearly as crowded as the Rialto , and that the views of the canal and surrounding neighborhoods are spectacular. They also note that a vaporetto stop is nearby, so it's easy to visit the bridge by boat if you don't want to walk. Not only will you want to cross the bridge to get views of the water, but also you’ll want to take photos of the bridge from the surrounding buildings and walkways, according to past visitors.

Libreria Acqua Alta Libreria Acqua Alta free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Many books at Libreria Acqua Alta are for decor only. Not everything you see is for sale. – Holly D. Johnson

The Libreria Acqua Alta is often called the "most beautiful bookstore in the world," and it's easy to see why. From its ancient stone walls to its cobblestone floors and embellished (and sometimes flamboyant) decor, there's a lot to see here other than books.

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Ca' d'Oro Ca' d'Oro

Ca' d'Oro is a patrician palace that was originally built in the 15th century in the Renaissance style coupled with Gothic and Islamic elements. Built by Giovanni and Bartolomeo Bon (famous father and son architects and sculptors of the time) at the request of the procurator of St. Mark, the building is located along the Grand Canal . Several stories high, the palace facade is adorned with marble terraces and intricate architectural design. The building features ornate cornices and cresting that was made to please local Venetian patrons at the time.

The building is worth a look due to its elaborate exterior, but art lovers should note the Ca' D’Oro Franchetti Gallery is housed inside. Past visitors said that a trip inside was just as meaningful as an outside view, mostly due to the exceptional collection of art and heirlooms. Art you can view in this palace-turned-gallery includes sculptures, antique furniture, 16th-century Flemish tapestries, paintings and more.

Rialto Market Rialto Market free

Located near the famous Rialto Bridge , the Rialto Market is a centuries-old market that features everything you would expect including fruit, fish and vegetables. Of course, many travelers head here to pick up souvenirs as well, some of which wind up being edible. Visitors to the market have said it's a vibrant and busy place that's ideal for buying local herbs and sauces, or trying out meats, cheeses, spices and freshly caught seafood.

What should you do while visiting the market? You can walk throughout and try interesting foods and sauces, and there are places to sit down and eat or relax. Hours can vary, but the produce market is typically open 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Saturday and the fish market is open the same hours Tuesday through Saturday. To avoid crowds, try visiting first thing in the morning.

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24 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Venice

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Dec 22, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

In a city as filled with tourist attractions as Venice, it's hard to know where to begin. Perhaps the best way is to simply get lost for a few hours wandering through its enchanting little streets and passageways, strolling beside its canals, and finding its secret corners.

At every turn, you'll see something worth remembering with a photo. No matter where this exploration takes you, it's easy to find your way back to Piazza San Marco and the Grand Canal. Most of the best sights you'll want to visit lie around these two landmarks.

Venice is divided into six sestieri, neighborhoods that have distinctly different characters. San Marco is the central one, surrounded on three sides by a great loop in the Grand Canal. Across Rialto Bridge is the artisans' neighborhood of San Polo, and across the Grand Canal to the south is stylish Dorsoduro, with its prestigious art museums and lively squares.

At the outer edges are Santa Croce, Castello, and Cannaregio, home of the original Ghetto. Beyond the six sestieri – neighborhoods – of the city itself, you'll want to hop aboard a vaporetto to its islands: Lido, Murano, Burano, and Torcello. A fourth island, San Giorgio Maggiore, is worth visiting for the beautiful views of San Marco and Venice from the tower of its church.

To plan your stay so you won't miss any of the best places to visit, use this list of the top attractions and things to do in Venice.

1. St. Mark's Basilica

2. piazza san marco (st. mark's square), 3. palazzo ducale (doge's palace) and bridge of sighs, 4. canale grande (grand canal), 5. ponte di rialto (rialto bridge) and san polo, 6. torre dell'orologio (clock tower), 7. campanile, 8. santa maria della salute, 9. scuola grande di san rocco, 10. teatro la fenice, 11. ca' d'oro, 12. murano and burano, 13. peggy guggenheim collection, 14. explore the ghetto and museo ebraico di venezia, 15. santa maria gloriosa dei frari, 16. gallerie dell'accademia (fine arts museum), 17. santa maria dei miracoli, 18. palazzo rezzonico, 19. torcello island, 21. hear classical music in a church, 22. contarini del bovolo palace, 23. ca' pesaro and galleria d'arte moderna, 24. the arsenal and the museum of naval history, where to stay in venice for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to venice, venice, italy - climate chart, more things to see and do.

Certainly Venice's best-known church, and one of the most easily recognized in the world, St. Mark's Basilica (Basilica di San Marco) was originally the Doge's private chapel, decorated with Byzantine art treasures that are part of the booty brought back by Venetian ships after the fall of Constantinople.

The gold-backed mosaic pictures above the doorways on the façade only hint at the mosaic artistry inside, where 4,240 square meters of gold mosaics cover the domes and walls. These set a distinctly Byzantine tone to its soaring interior, but you'll find treasures from other periods, including later mosaics designed by Titian and Tintoretto - names you'll encounter all over the city.

The magnificent golden altarpiece, the Pala d'Oro , one of the finest in Europe, was begun by early 12th-century artists, and centuries later, adorned with nearly 2,000 gems and precious stones. If you can tear your eyes from this, the mosaic domes, and the multitude of richly decorated altars, glance down at the floor, a masterpiece of marble inlay. And take time to see the gold reliquaries and icons in the Treasury.

• Read More: Exploring St. Mark's Basilica in Venice: A Visitor's Guide

The vast expanse of Venice's largest square is brought together and made to seem almost intimate by the elegant uniformity of its architecture on three sides. But more than its architectural grace, St. Mark's Square (Piazza San Marco) is loved as Venice's living room, the place everybody gathers, strolls, drinks coffee, stops to chat, meets friends and tour guides, or just passes through on the way to work or play.

Three sides are framed in arcades, beneath which are fashionable shops and even more fashionable cafés. The open end is bookmarked by the erratic, exotic curves, swirls, mosaics, and lacy stone filigree of St. Mark's Basilica .

Above it towers the brick shaft of the campanile. For overviews of this busy piazza, you can go to its top or to the top of the Torre dell'Orologio , where a pair of "Moors" strikes the hour.

Author's Tip: Don't be tempted to sit on the steps around the piazza to eat a take-away sandwich. Or throw the crumbs to the pigeons. Both are illegal.

• Read More: St. Mark's Square, Venice: 12 Top Attractions, Tours & Nearby Hotels

Visitors arriving in Venice once stepped ashore under the façade of this extraordinary palace. They couldn't have failed to be impressed, both by its size and the finesse of its architecture.

If they were received inside by the Doges, the impression would only strengthen as they entered through the Porta della Carta, a perfect example of Venetian Gothic at its height, and ascended the monumental Scala dei Giganti and the gold-vaulted Scala d'Oro to be received in what many consider to be the palace's most beautiful chamber, Sala del Collegio.

Even jaded 21st-century travelers gasp in awe at the palace's grandeur and lavish decoration. You'll see works by all the Venetian greats, including Tintoretto, whose Paradise is the largest oil painting in the world.

Not open on public tours but included on private tours is a walk across the Bridge of Sighs to the dark cells of the Prigioni - the prisons from which Casanova made his famous escape. The best view - and the postcard classic - of the Bridge of Sighs is from the Ponte della Paglia , on the Riva degli Schiavoni behind the Doge's Palace.

Lines for admission to the Doge's Palace are often long, but you can avoid these, and see sections of the palace not open to general visitors, with a Skip the Line: Doge's Palace Ticket and Tour . A local guide will take you past the lines and explain the history and art in each of the dazzling rooms before leading you across the Bridge of Sighs and into the notorious prison.

• Read More: Exploring the Doge's Palace in Venice: A Visitor's Guide

Sweeping through the heart of Venice in a giant reverse S curve, the Grand Canal is the principal boulevard through the city, connecting Piazza San Marco , Rialto Bridge, and the arrival points of the rail station and bridge from the mainland.

Only four bridges cross its 3.8-kilometer length, but stripped-down gondolas called traghetti shuttle back and forth at several points between bridges. The Grand Canal was the address of choice for anyone who claimed any influence in Venice. Palaces of all the leading families open onto the canal, their showy Venetian Gothic and Early Renaissance facades facing the water, by which visitors arrived.

These grand palaces – or at least their facades – are well preserved today, and a trip along the canal by vaporetto, Venice's floating public transport system, is the best way to see them. Or you can see the palaces at a more leisurely speed on a Venice Grand Canal Small Group 1-Hour Boat Tour , which also includes some of the smaller canals. And, of course, a ride along the Grand Canal in a gondola is one of the most romantic things to do in Venice at night.

• Read More: Exploring the Grand Canal in Venice: Top Attractions

Once the only bridge across the Grand Canal , Rialto Bridge marks the spot of the island's first settlement, called Rivus Altus (high bank). Built in 1588, some 150 years after the collapse of a previous wooden bridge, this stone arch supports two busy streets and a double set of shops.

Along with serving as a busy crossing point midway along the canal, it is a favorite vantage point for tourists taking - or posing for - photos, and for watching the assortment of boats always passing under it.

The church of San Bartolomeo , close to the San Marco end of the bridge, was the church of the German merchants who lived and worked in the Fondaco dei Tedeschi (German Commodity Exchange) bordering the canal here. It has an excellent altarpiece, The Martyrdom of St. Bartholomew , by Palma the Younger. The former exchange is now a popular place to go shopping.

On the other side of Rialto Bridge is the busy food market, where Venetians and chefs shop for fresh produce and seafood. In the narrow streets of San Polo, beyond the market, are artisans' shops and mask-making studios, one of the best places for shopping in Venice . You'll also find places to eat that are not so filled with tourists as those nearer San Marco.

Author's tip: If you're visiting Venice with children , look for the carnival mask and costume studios in San Polo. Masks are inexpensive souvenirs of their trip to Venice.

To one side of the basilica, facing onto Piazza San Marco, is one of Venice's most familiar icons, a clock tower surmounted by a pair of bronze Moors that strike the large bell each hour. The face of the clock shows phases of the moon and the zodiac in gilt on a blue background, and above the clock is a small balcony and a statue of the Virgin.

Above that, the winged Lion of St. Mark and a mosaic of gold stars against a blue background were added in 1755 by Giorgio Massari. The tower itself is from the 15 th century and typical of Venetian Renaissance architecture. Through an arched gateway at its base runs one of Venice's busiest streets, the narrow Calle Mercerei.

If you're in Venice during Ascension Week or at Epiphany, as the Moors strike each hour, you can see the Three Kings led past the Madonna by an angel. You can climb the tower for a closer look at the clockwork.

Standing like a giant exclamation point above the expanse of Piazza San Marco, the Campanile is not the first to stand here. The original one, erected as a lighthouse in 1153, collapsed dramatically into the piazza in 1902, and was rebuilt on a firmer footing. Also rebuilt was the Loggetta at its base, a small marble loggia completed in 1540, where members of the Great Council assembled before meeting in the sessions.

In the loggia at the base, you can see Sansovino's four bronze masterpieces between the columns, all of which were rescued from the rubble after the collapse. The Campanile has a grimmer side to its history: in the Middle Ages, prisoners, including renegade priests, were hoisted halfway up the outside in cages, where they hung suspended for weeks.

Today, the Campanile is a popular attraction for the views from the platform on top, which extends across the city and lagoon to the Adriatic (try to go early or late in the day, as lines for the lift can be very long).

One of the most photographed churches in Venice, Santa Maria della Salute has a postcard setting, rising at the tip of a peninsula across from the Doge's Palace.

The monumental Baroque church was built as thanks for the end of the plague of 1630. But the fragile land wouldn't support its tremendous weight, so its architect, Baldassare Longhena, had more than a million timbers driven into the floor of the lagoon before he could erect the church.

The vaporetto landing is right in front of the church, and the highlight of its interior – apart from the magnificent dome – is the Sacristy, where you'll find paintings that include Tintoretto's Marriage at Cana .

This impressive white marble Scuola Grande di San Rocco was built between 1515 and 1560 to house a charitable society dedicated to San Rocco. Soon after its completion, the great 16th-century Venetian artist Tintoretto won the competition to paint a central panel for the ceiling of the Sala dell'Albergo by entering the building and putting his painting in its intended place before the judging, much to the irritation of his rival artists.

He later decorated its walls and ceilings with a complete cycle of paintings, which are considered to be the artist's masterpiece. The earliest works, in the Sala dell'Albergo, date to 1564 and 1576 and include The Glorification of St. Roch, Christ before Pilate, the Ecce Homo, and the most powerful of all, The Crucifixion . Those in the upper hall depict New Testament scenes, painted between 1575 and 1581.

The lighting is not good, and the paintings themselves are dark, but you can still appreciate Tintoretto's innovations in the use of light and color. You can see the ceilings more easily with one of the mirrors that are provided. More works by Tintoretto are in the chancel of the adjacent church of San Rocco.

Address: Campo San Rocco, San Polo, Venice

The name La Fenice (The Phoenix), chosen at the constriction in 1792, proved prophetic, as like the mythical phoenix, it has risen from the ashes. The theater has been destroyed by fire three times, the last one, in 1996, leaving only the outer walls standing. Each time, it has been rebuilt, and continues to be one of the world's great opera houses.

Throughout its history, but particularly in the 19th century, La Fenice saw the premiers of many of the most famous Italian operas, including those of Rossini, Donizetti, and Verdi, and today schedules performances of opera, ballet, and musical concerts.

Even after its reopening in 2003 with somewhat expanded seating, La Fenice is still a comparatively small opera house, so tickets are very hard to get, especially for major performances. You can take a tour of the spectacular Rococo interior, however, using an audio guide; these self-guided tours last about 45 minutes and include the public areas of the theater.

The delicate marble filigree by Bartolomeo Bon seems too lace-like to be carved of stone, and you can only imagine the impression this façade must have made covered in its original paint and gold. Along with the Porta della Carta in the Palazzo Ducale , also created by Bartolomeo Bon, The Ca' d'Oro is considered the most perfect example of Venetian Gothic.

You can admire the interior, too, as this palazzo is now an art museum, restored to provide both a setting for the art works and a look at the way wealthy Venetians lived in the 15th and 16th centuries. The connoisseur responsible for saving the palace, Baron Giorgio Franchetti, gave his art collection to the state in 1922, with works by Titian, Mantegna, Van Dyck, Tullio Lombardo, and Bernini.

A trip to Venice wouldn't be complete without hopping aboard a vaporetto for the ride across the lagoon to Murano, home of Venice's fabled glass workers. They were sent here in the 13th century in hope of decreasing the risk of fire from one of the glass furnaces sweeping through Venice's tightly compacted center.

Or so they claimed. Just as likely, it was to keep the secrets of glassblowing a Venetian monopoly. This was no small matter to the Venetians, whose Council of Ten decreed in 1454: "If a glassblower takes his skill to another country to the detriment of the Republic he shall be ordered to return; should be refuse, his nearest relatives shall be thrown into prison so that his sense of family duty may induce him to return; should he persist in his disobedience secret measures shall be taken to eliminate him wherever he may be." It was a lot easier to keep track of them if they were confined to an island.

The canal sides today are lined by glass showrooms and studios, showing everything from cheap imported trinkets to exquisite works of art. Inside the 17th-century Palazzo Giustinian is the Glass Museum , with one of the largest and most important collections of Venetian glass from the time of the Romans to the 20th century.

But it's not all glass: The church of Santi Maria e Donato combines Veneto-Byzantine and Early Romanesque features, a result of its various stages of building between the seventh and 12th centuries. Notice especially the columns of Greek marble with Veneto-Byzantine capitals, the 12th-century mosaic floor with animal figures, and the St. Donato above the first altar on the left. Dated 1310, it is the earliest example of Venetian painting.

The 14th-century San Pietro Martire contains several splendid Venetian paintings: Bellini's Madonna in Majesty with St. Mark and the Doge Agostino Barbarigo and his Assumption of the Virgin , along with St. Jerome in the Wilderness and St. Agatha in Prison by Paolo Veronese.

It's a quick hop to the next island, Burano, a fishing village of brilliantly painted houses, known historically for its lace making. The Scuola dei Merletti (lace school) and its small museum will help you distinguish the real thing from the cheap imports you'll find in most shops.

The slender campanile of the 16 th -century church of San Martino leans at an alarming angle, made all the more dramatic by its height.

The personal art collections of heiress Peggy Guggenheim are housed in her former home alongside the Grand Canal, Palazzo Venier dei Leoni. Although most of Italy's great art museums are filled with masters of the Middle Ages and Renaissance, the Peggy Guggenheim concentrates on American and European art from the first half of the 20th century.

The low building, with its spare, white interior, is a fitting venue for these bold and often dramatic works, which represent Cubist, Futurist, Abstract Expressionist, Surrealist, and avant-garde schools of painting and sculpture.

The permanent collection includes works by Picasso, Dali, Braque , Léger , Mondrian , Kandinsky , Klee, Ernst , Magritte , and Pollock , and frequent exhibitions bring in works from other major artists. In the museum's sculpture gardens are works by Calder , Holzer , Caro , Judd , and Hepworth .

Address: 704 Dorsoduro, Venice

The Venetians called the foundry here geto , and in 1516 it was decreed that all Jews in the city would live on this islet, the origin of the word "ghetto." Residents could only leave in the daytime, and the gates were locked and guarded at night.

This part of the Cannaregio sestiere still has distinct Jewish presence, with synagogues and the Museo Ebraico di Venezia (Jewish Museum) with artifacts of Jewish life here from the 17 th and later centuries. Facing the Ghetto Nuovo Square, a touching memorial of bronze panels, created in 1980 by artist Arbit Blatas, remembers the victims of the deportation during the Nazi occupation of the city in 1943.

Address: Museo Ebraico di Venezia, Campo del Ghetto Nuovo, Cannaregio

This Gothic church was begun by the Franciscans about 1340 and finished with the completion of the facade, interior, and two chapels in the middle of the 15th century. Its impressive 14th-century campanile is the second highest in the city.

Although the interior is in keeping with the simple unadorned style of Franciscan churches, it contains a wealth of artistic treasures. In the right transept is an important wood statue of St. John the Baptist by Florentine sculptor Donatello, done in 1451 (first chapel to the right of the sanctuary).

In the sacristy is a triptych Madonna and Child Enthroned with Four Saints by Giovanni Bellini. In the left transept, the statue of St. John the Baptist on the stoup of the Cappella Cornaro was created by the sculptor and master-builder Jacopo Sansovino

The Monks' Choir is an outstanding example of the wood-carving of Marco Cozzi, with reliefs of saints and Venetian scenes. And the sanctuary contains the tomb of two Doges by Antonio Rizzo, and over the high altar is Titian's Assunta , painted between 1516 and 1518. The Mausoleum of Titian in the south aisle was a gift from Ferdinand I of Austria, when he was King of Lombardy Veneto.

You can't help noticing the pyramidal mausoleum made by the students of the sculptor Antonio Canova in the north aisle, and opposite, the large monument to Titian, also by students of Canova. Beside the Cappella Emiliani, which has a fine mid-15th-century polyptych with marble figures, is Madonna di Ca' Pesaro , completed in 1526 and one of Titian's most important works.

Address: Campo dei Frari, I-30100 Venice

Called " The Accademia " for short, this museum on the Grand Canal has the most important and comprehensive collection of 15th-18th-century Venetian painting in existence. Much of the collection was assembled from monasteries and churches that were closed and from the clearing of palaces of noble families, now displayed in the former Monastery of Santa Maria della Carità.

Some of the galleries, such as the first one, which contains Venetian Gothic Painting, have richly carved and gilded 15th-century ceilings. Works are arranged chronologically, so you can not only trace the evolution of styles, but can compare the works of contemporaries.

Highlights of the 15th- and 16th-century paintings are St. George by Andrea Mantegna, St Jerome and a Donor by Piero della Francesca, Madonna and Saints by Giovanni Bellini, Portrait of Christ by Vittore Carpaccio, and Madonna under the Orange Tree by Cima da Conegliano.

St. John the Baptist and a magnificent Pietà by Titian, Tintoretto's Cain and Abel and The Miracle of St. Mark, Paolo Veronese's Marriage of St. Catherine and Supper in the House of Levi , St. Ursula by Vittore Carpaccio, and several works by Giambattista Tiepolo are also worth special notice.

After the vast grandeur of St. Mark's and the soaring expanse of Frari, little Santa Maria dei Miracoli is like a fresh breeze, a masterpiece of Early Renaissance architecture by Pietro Lombardo. This jewel box of pastel inlaid marble was built from 1481 to 1489 to enshrine a miraculous picture of the Virgin.

Unlike Venice's other churches, whose facades are embellished with architectural flourishes and statues, Lombardo used painstakingly matched colored marble to create delicate patterns of rosettes, circles, octagons, and crosses on the facade. The method continues inside, which heightens the effect of the golden domed ceiling rising above gray and coral marble walls.

The nave is separated from the chancel by an exquisite Early Renaissance balustrade decorated with figures. It's no wonder that this is Venetians' favorite place to be married, as its interior is one of the most beautiful in the city.

Address: Campo dei Miracoli, Venice

Just as Ca' d'Oro lets you glimpse into the life of the late Middle Ages, Palazzo Rezzonico gives a vivid picture of life here in the Baroque and Rococo periods, in the 18th century. Designed and begun by Venice's master of Baroque architecture, Baldassare Longhena, the palace was completed nearly 100 years later in 1750 by Giorgio Massari.

The furnishings and collections complete the picture painted by the building, including its interior decoration of silk wall coverings, elegant finish details, and Flemish tapestries. The costume collection highlights the importance of silk production in Venice from the late Middle Ages through the 18th century, when it was a major competitor with Lyon, France.

Rigid technical regulations were enforced, resulting in some of the most beautiful silk fabrics ever made. So important was silk that even in times of war with the Turks, battle lines parted for the silk-laden ships to pass through.

The museum details the importance of luxury goods, particularly clothing and fashion, for the Venetian economy in the 18th century, when brocades embellished with gold and silver thread produced here were treasured throughout Europe and the New World.

Venice began on this outer island of Torcello, founded here as early as the seventh century, and by the 12th century, it was a flourishing commercial town. Of its palaces, churches, shipyards, and docks, only two churches and a handful of houses remain, dotted over the large island.

You can get some idea of the importance of Torcello from its cathedral, dedicated in 639 to Santa Maria Assunta . It is considered the best remaining example of Venetian-Byzantine architecture. It was reconstructed in 834 and 1008, and the portico and two lateral apses were added in the ninth century; much of the building dates from the 11th century. The mosaics lining the interior are outstanding.

The oldest of these are in the chapel to the right of the high altar, where 11th-century angels carrying a medallion with the Lamb of God show a strong Byzantine influence. The Fathers of the Church ; Gregory, Martin, Ambrose, and Augustine; were added later, along with Christ in Majesty between two Archangels .

The 12th-century mosaics in the main apse and the Virgin and Child above a frieze of the Twelve Apostles surrounded by flowers are all on a gold background. The west wall is covered in tiers of a Byzantine mosaic of the Last Judgment from the late 12th or early 13th century.

Along with the exquisitely detailed marble carvings on the rood screen, notice the 11th-century mosaic floor and the pulpit, which was assembled in the 13th century from earlier fragments.

Adjoining the cathedral is the little 11th-century church of Santa Fosca , on a pure Byzantine central plan with a portico. Your admission ticket includes the interesting little historical museum with artifacts from antiquity to the 16th century.

The long (12-kilometer) strip of sand that separates the Venetian lagoon from the Adriatic Sea was Europe's first real beach resort, and in its heyday, at the turn of the 20th century, was Europe's most fashionable watering hole for royalty and the day's celebs. Today, the grand hotels where they reposed still welcome guests and still own the beautiful fine-sand beaches, although for a price you can share them with hotel guests.

Public beaches are at the north end of the island, near the church of San Nicolo, where relics of St. Nicholas are revered. After considerable controversy between Venice and Bari, which also claims the saint's relics, it has been established by an anatomical expert that both have an equal claim; about half the skeleton, including the skull, is in Bari and the other half in Lido. The cloisters are lovely, and in the church are paintings by both Palma the Elder and Younger.

You can tour Lido on foot or a bicycle rented near the landing stage where the 10-minute Motonave or longer vaporetto ride from St. Mark's deposits you. The island is filled with Art Nouveau villas and hotels; to see the villas, wander along some of the side streets. In August and September, the Lido is the venue for the International Film Festival, held in the Palazzo del Cinema.

Two churches in Venice are venues for concerts of classical music , both featuring the works of Venetian composer and virtuoso violinist, Antonio Vivaldi. One of these churches, Santa Maria della Pietà , was Vivaldi's own, where he taught and composed the music for major church feasts. Near Saint Mark's Square, it is a beautiful mid-18 th -century church.

The other church where you can hear concerts is San Vidal church, in Campo Santo Stefano, not far from the Academia bridge. Along with the concerts, the church is notable for its magnificent main altarpiece, San Vidal on Horseback with Eight Saints, painted in 1514 by Vittore Carpaccio. Concerts in both these venues feature "The Four Seasons" and other works by Vivaldi. 123

During the 15 th -century renovations of an earlier Gothic building near Campo Manin, a unique spiraling staircase was added to the outside, creating one of the city's most unusual places to visit. The staircase spirals upward, encased by a balustrade and a series of graceful arches that give it an almost delicate air. The building became known as the Contarini del Bovolo Palace , referring to the Venetian word for snail.

Alongside the round tower, a series of 5 layered loggias decreasing in height with each level provides access to the building's five stories. You can see the exterior from the courtyard, or climb the tower for views from the roofed terrace at the top.

Address: San Marco, Campo Manin

The impressive façade of Ca' Pesaro overlooking the Grand Canal, was inspired by the Sansovino Library that stands across from the Doge's Palace, built a century earlier. The lavish Venetian Late Baroque interior contrasts sharply with the art displayed there, for the palazzo now houses the Galleria d'Arte Moderna.

One of Italy's finest collections of modern art, it contains works by important 19th- and 20th-century painters and sculptors including Gustav Klimt, Marc Chagall, and Auguste Rodin. Highlights include decorative arts of the 20 th century such as works in glass made by Carlo Scarpa in the 1930s and 1940s and rare furniture pieces by the cabinetmaker Carlo Bugatti.

The Museo d'Arte Orientale occupies the third floor of the palace, with collections of fine and applied arts from Asia. Highlights are the Chinese vases and Japanese enamels, porcelains, and armor of the Edo period.

Ca'Pesaro is reached by Vaparetto from the San Stae stop, at the church of Sant'Eustachio, more commonly known as San Stae. Step inside the church to see paintings by early 18th-century artists, including Tiepolo and Pellegrini.

Address: Santa Croce, Venice

The Arsenal, the shipyard of the Venetian Republic, was the largest and busiest in the world until the end of the 17th century. From its founding in 1104, it was continuously expanded, until in its heyday, it employed as many as 16,000 workers.

Closely guarded to preserve the secret production methods that enabled it to build a fully sea-ready ship in a single day, the Arsenal was accessible by one land and one sea approach only. So tight was its security that the Republic managed to keep its art of shipbuilding secret until about 1550.

At its imposing land entrance is a Renaissance-style triumphal arch guarded by lions brought from Greece as booty after the reconquest of the Peloponnese in the 17th century. Of the two lions on the left, the larger one stood guard over the port of Piraeus, while its fellow stood on the road from Athens to Eleusis.

Adjacent to the shipyard is the Museum of Naval History , displaying impressive booty brought back from the numerous maritime wars of the Republic, along with fascinating collections that include votive paintings made on wood panels in thanks for rescues at sea. These charming pictures are interesting for their depiction of sea life, not so much for their artistic finesse.

Models and artifacts relate to shipbuilding, the types of vessels afloat in the period that Venice was a sea power, and the Republic's strongholds throughout the Adriatic. A large model of the legendary ship of state Bucintoro , the Doge's sumptuous official galley, is especially interesting.

Address: Riva degli Schiavoni, Castello, Venice

While it's nice to stay close to St. Mark's Square, or between there and the Rialto, it's not essential for sightseeing. Attractions are all fairly close, and you'll have to walk between them anyway. Just as important is how close the hotel is to a Vaporetto stop on the Grand Canal. In addition to hotels near San Marco and San Zaccaria stops, consider those near Salute and Academia stops in Dorsoduro. Here are some highly rated and convenient hotels in Venice:

Luxury Hotels :

• Only a few steps from the Salute stop and one stop from St. Mark's, Ca' Maria Adele is a lush island of serenity near the Guggenheim Collection, with antiques-furnished rooms and superb guest services.
• The Gritti Palace, A Luxury Collection Hotel was once the home of a Venetian Doge, and its large, sumptuously appointed rooms (some with balconies) overlook the Grand Canal or a quiet piazza close to St. Mark's.
• Set on a small canal less than two minutes' walk from Piazza San Marco, Bauer Palazzo could hardly have a more convenient location for tourists. Opulent appointments include marble floors and Murano glass chandeliers; guest rooms and the rooftop terrace overlook views of the Grand Canal and other landmarks.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Elegant and luxurious Hotel Ai Cavalieri di Venezia is also a walk from the Rialto stop, but well located near attractions.
• Londra Palace could hardly be better located, a three-minute walk from St. Mark's at the San Zaccaria stop, with balconies overlooking the lagoon; breakfast is included.
• The large rooms at NH Collection Venezia Palazzo Barocci overlook the Grand Canal, at the San Angelo vaporetto stop.

Budget Hotels:

• In a quiet neighborhood of Santa Croce, a short walk from a Vaporetto stop, about 20 minutes from Rialto and close to a good choice of restaurants, Hotel Tiziano has comfortable rooms and includes breakfast.
• Rio Venezia Hotel is just behind St. Mark's, a block off the Grand Canal.
• Also just steps from St. Mark's, Hotel Orion is on the shortest route to Rialto.

Exploring the Islands:

• A highlight for most travelers is a visit to the islands of Murano and Burano. The easiest way to explore these islands is on a five-hour guided Murano Glass and Burano Lace Tour from Venice , which includes motorboat transport to the islands, with visits to a glassblowing factory on Murano and lace makers on Burano.

Sightseeing and Gondola Rides :

• Venice is a little bit of a maze, and if you have limited time, taking a guided tour is a good idea. The Venice Walking Tour and Gondola Ride includes the best of both worlds, with an opportunity to learn the history of the sites as you wander the city and then relax and enjoy the scenery on a gondola ride.
• Alternatively, to just soak up some of the ambience, skip the walking piece and see the sites from the water on a 35-minute shared gondola ride while being serenaded on the Venice Gondola Ride and Serenade .
• A third option, the Venice Super Saver: Skip-the Line Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Basilica Tours, Venice Walking Tour and Grand Canal Cruise offers priority admission to the two must-see sights with the longest lines, a guided walking tour that takes you to some of Venice's secret sights, and a water-taxi cruise along the Grand Canal.

Good to Know

• Beginning in 2025, day visitors will be charged an access tax of between €6 and €10, depending on the season and expected tourist numbers. Visitors staying overnight in Venice already pay a lodging tax of €1 to €5 per person per night for the first 5 nights.
• If you plan to use the Vaporetto, either on the Grand Canal or to visit the islands of Murano, Burano, Lido and Torcello, ACTV transit passes are a good value. Single fares are €9.50, and a full-day pass is €25, less than the cost of three single rides. Multiple day passes save even more: 2 days for €25, 3 days for €45 and €65 for an entire week.
• While Venetians are quite tolerant of the masses of tourists that pour in every day, the city has some rules for visitor behavior. While these are not uniformly enforced, recent violations have resulted in steep fines. Some that you should be aware of include prohibitions on picnicking in a public place, buying from street vendors, lying down on a public bench, putting padlocks on bridges, and leaning against store fronts.

Where to Go near Venice : After you've visited the city's top tourist attractions, you may want to explore some of the beautiful nearby towns. Only 20 kilometers away is pretty Treviso , enclosed by walls and with its own waterside villas. Padua , with its famous shrine of St. Anthony, is easy to reach by train or by a cruise along the historic Brenta Canal. Stop along the way at Villa Pisani, one of the most beautiful gardens in Italy .

Places to Visit from Venice: North of Treviso are the soaring Dolomites, with some of the top ski resorts in Italy but with plenty of things to do in all seasons. Along the Adriatic to the east is Trieste , where Italian blends with Hapsburg architecture reminiscent of Vienna. Following the Adriatic coast south, you'll reach Ravenna , with its magnificent Byzantine mosaics.

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The 23 best things to do in Venice

Aperol Spritz, gondola rides and some of the best contemporary art around? Welcome to the city of love

Ignore Venice ’s somewhat  stuffy reputation - this is a place to live the good life. Think art, architecture and (of course) the Aperol Spritz, and you’ve got Venice. It’s busy, obviously, but most people are there to see St Mark’s and the Rialto Bridge. To avoid the crowds, you just need to know the right spots. A whopping 118 islands linked by over 400 bridges make up the centre of Venice, so there is a whole  lot to explore - and that’s where we come in. 

Maybe you just want to get lost in the narrow calli , sit canalside with cicchetti (Venice’s famous finger food) hearing the slap-slap of the water, or wander the Biennale gardens. Maybe you’re coming for the art – Renaissance maestros and modern marvels are all covered here. Maybe you’re here to party like it’s 1699 at Carnevale, or maybe you just want to get away from it all, and hit the outer islands of the lagoon. Whatever you’re into, here are the best things to do in Venice, by a local. 

RECOMMENDED: 🍴 The best Venice restaurants 🏘️ Where to stay in Venice 🍷 The best bars in Venice 🏨 The best hotels in Venice

Julia Buckley is a travel writer based in Venice . At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines . 

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Best things to do in Venice

1.  Piazza San Marco

Napoleon called this ‘the drawing room of Europe’, and even with today’s crowds and thickets of selfie sticks, St Mark’s Square is as refined as ever. Ride the elevator to the top of the campanile (bell tower) for drone-style views, watch high tides bubble up through the drains (note: that’s why you shouldn’t be splashing through the water barefoot), and visit the famous Correr Museum, located above the famous porticos. Most importantly, have a drink at one of the famous cafes, some of which have been going strong for hundreds of years. Florian has been serving eager Venice tourists since 1720, but our tip is for Quadri, on the opposite side of the square – it’s owned by the local Alajmo brothers, who have a Michelin-starred restaurant upstairs and gourmet bar snacks downstairs. 

2.  Doge’s Palace

Few buildings on the planet are as gloriously camp as the pink-tinged, candy-striped Doge’s Palace, dandling on the water’s edge. It’s certainly seen some action – the political heart of the Venetian Republic, which lasted for over 1000 years until 1797, this is where doges were ‘crowned’ (and the naughty ones executed), while prisoners were tried and marched to their deaths over the Bridge of Sighs. Some of the greatest artists of the Renaissance came to slather its walls in paintings, and even Casanova was imprisoned here, although he swiftly escaped over the rooftops to slay another day. Leave enough time to see it properly – highlights include the one of the largest canvas paintings in the world (‘ Paradise’  by Tintoretto in the Sala del Maggior Consiglio), the seriously creepy prisons, and the Bridge of Sighs, where you can recreate your own death walk. The regular exhibitions, including contemporary art installations, are always worth a look. 

3.  Basilica di San Marco

All that glitters probably is gold, if the Venetians are anything to go by. They looted left right and centre, down the Adriatic and across to Constantinople to make this, their main church, as spectacular as possible. From the intricate Byzantine-style mosaics on the floor (don’t miss the rhinoceros) to the glowing golden roof and wall mosaics, whose saints and martyrs sparkle, it’s deliciously outré. For a small extra fee you can visit the museum upstairs, and walk outside for views of the Piazza. 

4.  Grand Canal

This is one of the world’s greatest waterways for good reason – splitting Venice neatly into two, lined with palazzos each fancier than the next, and crossed by just four bridges, including the Rialto (below). Luckily in this most expensive of cities, public transport plies exactly the same route around its legendary bends as you’d take in a taxi or a gondola – you just have to make sure you bag a decent seat. Hop on the number 1 boat at Piazzale Roma, and it’ll take you on a 45-minute leisurely cruise, past churches (including the iconic domed Salute church) mindblowingly beautiful palazzos like the gothic wedding cake that is Ca’ d’Oro, fancy hotels like the Aman (where you might get a glimpse of Clooney and his ilk), and gliding under the Rialto. Because it’s a busy waterway, seeing the Grand Canal by gondola can be pretty stressful – you’re better off hopping into one at a quieter stop. What you should do here, though, is take a ride in a traghetto – essentially a public gondola, they cross the Grand Canal at five points. You get all the views, with less of the waves caused by all the boats – and all for €2 a pop.

5.  Ponte di Rialto

• Attractions
• Historic buildings and sites

Only in Venice can a bridge be a tourist attraction, a work of art… and a shopping mall. The marble-clad affair, linking the San Marco and San Polo districts via the Grand Canal since 1591, is second only to Piazza San Marco when it comes to visitor numbers. Fight for a space to get a prime view of the Grand Canal, check out the shops that line it (but be aware they’re mostly tourist traps), and most importantly cross it (if you’re coming from the San Marco side) to reach the market that’s been going strong for over 1,000 years. Today, the market itself may be of slightly less interest to visitors, since it’s mainly fruit, veg and fish, but the bars that have fuelled market workers for centuries are some of the best in the city for both atmosphere and cicchetti (see below).

6.  Try the cicchetti

People often slate Venice as expensive – with bad food. These people haven’t eaten cicchetti , the legendary Venetian bar snacks, which started as bitesize fodder for gondoliers and workers on the run. Today, they usually come in the form of slices of baguette bread topped with anything from seafood to meat and cheese – you’ll find some of the best in town at Schiavi in Dorsoduro, where gourmet toppings include egg dusted with tiny flowers and tuna tartare with a sprinkling of cacao. The more traditional cicchetti , though, don’t involve bread – they’re anything from a boiled egg with anchovies, to sarde in saor , sweet-sour-style sardines marinated with onion, raisins and pine nuts. Pair it with an ombra – the Venetian term for a small glass of house wine. The bars around the Rialto market are a good place to start a cicchetti crawl. 

7.  Gallerie dell’Accademia

When Napoleon conquered Venice, he swiped plenty of its best Renaissance artworks and took them back to France. Lots have been recovered, however, and are now part of this vast gallery, one of the best in Italy, sporting one of the finest collections of Renaissance art on the planet. The high-ceilinged rooms are stuffed with altarpieces by Venetian greats like Titian, Tintoretto, Bellini and Carpaccio, as well as those who hit the big time here, from Mantegna to Veronese. Look out for contemporary exhibitions, too, especially in Biennale years – a recent Anish Kapoor show was mesmerising. 

8.  Burano

• Walks and tours

Burano might be a 40-minute Vaporetto from the main island, but it’s worth the day trip. This island is filled with homes painted in every colour of the rainbow. Stroll past the 13th-century church of Santa Caterina to check out local restaurants, like the Trattoria Al Gatto Nero, which serves fresh seafood and homemade pasta (look for the bright blue building).

9.  Scuola Grande di San Rocco

Throughout the rest of Italy a scuola is a school, but in Venice it’s something altogether less pedestrian – essentially a group of locals who come together to do charitable deeds, and, more excitingly for today’s tourists, called in the best artists of the time to do the decoration. This is the best, covered almost entirely in paintings by Tintoretto – including the kaleidoscopic ceiling in the main room upstairs. It’s a mindblowing place – pick up one of the mirrors on hand so you don’t crick your neck, and follow the cycle. Don’t miss the wall seats sporting esoteric carved figures, either – including what looks like a cowboy. 

10.  Carnevale

Today, it’s almost exclusively tourists that take part in Carnevale – Venice’s carnival – but that doesn’t make it any less spectacular. Visit during February (usually, depending on the dates – but it ends on Shrove Tuesday) and you’ll find the streets full of your fellow visitors dressed up (you can tell the foreigners because they’ll be dressed in antique-style garb while Italians will be in general fancy dress). So grab a mask – splash out on one from a local artisan rather than buying a cheap plastic one from a stall, you won’t regret it – and join the crowds. You’ll find the official events listed on the Venice Carnival website each year – the most spectacular one is the Volo dell’Angelo, which marks the start of the Carnival, with a young woman ‘flying’ on a zipline from the campanile to the Doge’s Palace. 

11.  Peggy Guggenheim Collection

When the late, great Peggy Guggenheim moved to Venice in 1949, the city was busy looking back at its past glories. Guggenheim changed that pretty much singlehandedly (the Biennale aside), with her focus on contemporary art, filling her almost modernist-looking single-storey palazzo on the Grand Canal (it’s not a bungalow – it’s just an unfinished classical one) with works by her favourite artists. Today, her home is a museum bursting with her huge collection, with works by the likes of Picasso, Dalií, Pollock and more. Don’t forget to pay respects on your way out to her garden grave, alongside those of her best friends: her dogs.

12.  Murano

Come for the glass and stay for the island. Murano is a mini Venice, complete with its own palace-lined ‘Grand Canal’ snaking down its middle – and it’s only a five-minute vaporetto ride into the north lagoon (depending on where you alight). It is, of course, best known for its glass – the streets are lined with glass shops (make sure you’re buying something made locally, not a foreign-import trinket), blazing furnaces fire the factories where maestri blow and hand-turn glass, and there’s a superb – and compact – museum (below). But it’s a gorgeous island in its own right. Don’t miss the Basilica dei Santi Maria e Donato with its 12th-century mosaic ‘carpet’ of geometric patterns and fantastical animals, or the art-stuffed San Pietro Martire church. If you’re buying, Lucevetro has glasses, accessories and glass artwork designed and made on the island at accessible prices, while big spenders should head to Venini , whose collaborations with 20 th -century designers have made it world famous. 

13.  Torcello

• Religious buildings and sites

Just across the water from Burano is this semi-deserted island, whose current population just about hits double figures. Back in the day, though, this was where Venice began – before the Venetians settled around the Rialto, Torcello was a thriving port. Today it’s best known as being to a famous restaurant ( Locanda Cipriani  – great food, if sometimes snooty service), and the Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta , built in the seventh century, and topped and tailed with glittering 11 th -century mosaics, including the dramatic Last Judgement on the back wall, which has some particularly gruesome depictions of those unlucky souls in hell. 

14.  Venice Biennale

Every other year from May to November, the art crowd flocks into town for the Venice Biennale, which sees countries from all over the world set up shop (or ‘pavilions’) to showcase the best of their modern artists. There are two official areas – the made-to-measure pavilions in the Giardini (a park to the east of the centre) and the Arsenale, the ancient shipyard, whose centuries-old factory premises make beguiling gallery space. You can get a ticket for one space or for both, and it’s worth adding a guided tour, led by experts, which give much-needed context to the exhibits and the Biennale theme as a whole (it’s contemporary art after all). What’s often more exciting are the ‘fringe’ events, which take place in multiple locations around the city: private palazzos, churches, abandoned buildings and even supermarkets. It’s a window onto another world. 

15.  Jewish Quarter

In 1516, Venice’s Jewish community was forcibly settled onto an island in Cannaregio, and the word “ghetto” was born. Over the following centuries it expanded, though citizens were still confined to the area at nightly curfew, and had to build ‘skyscrapers’ – as much as eight storeys high – to fit into the tiny area. While they lived in cramped conditions, though, they worshipped in synagogues every bit as fancy as Venice’s churches, and got the starchitects of the time to design them. Each community of origin had its own place of worship – today, guided tours take you to two of the five of them (which ones you get depends on the day). Outside in the area’s main square is a Holocaust memorial, remembering the 246 Jews who were arrested here and sent to the concentration camps during World War II.

16.  Fondamenta della Misericordia

Venice has never been a party city, but this is its wondrously watery take on a bar strip: dozens of wine bars, restaurants and boozy joints lining a wide canal in residential district Cannaregio, backing onto the Jewish quarter. Try Vino Vero for fancy (think biodynamic) wines, Al Timon whose seating includes a boat moored on the canal, and Ae Bricoe for delicious cicchetti . There’s also a great artist wedged between bars, Nelson Kishi at his shop Codex Venezia , for a truly unique souvenir of Venice. 

17.  Museo del Vetro

A museum about glass sounds yawnsome, but this is anything but: it runs you through the history of glass-making, from its Middle Eastern origins, to the Romans, and the medieval Venetian traders who brought back works from Syria to be copied back home – promptly moving the global glass business to Murano. There are plenty of examples, from pre-Roman vases to elaborate Renaissance tableware, as well as more design-led glass art from the 20 th century. If you turned your nose up at the glass chandeliers in your hotel, you’ll be converted here. 

18.  Take in the views

Few cities look as good from on high as this one, and you’ve a few places to choose from if you want a bird’s eye view.  The most obvious one is the campanile in Piazza San Marco – but while that nets you stellar views of the Piazza and the Doge’s Palace, it has the same problem as the observatory of the Empire State Building – you’re in the view. The campanile on the island of San Giorgio Maggiore, just across the water, is a good alternative for classic Venice views, while for the Grand Canal, you’ll want to head to the rooftop of the Fondaco di Tedeschi department store, right above the Rialto Bridge.

19.  Lido

When you’ve had enough culture, escape to the Lido – the seven-mile sandbar separating the lagoon from the Adriatic Sea. It’s home to world-class beaches with Miami-style sugary sand – think Dirk Bogarde sprawling on the beach in ‘Death in Venice’ – although you’ll need to rent a sunlounger at one of the many beach clubs, since almost all of it is privatised. The island has celebrities oozing out of its pores come September, when the Venice Film Festival comes to town (the best star-spotting is at the wildly OTT Excelsior Hotel), but it’s lovely year-round, even on bracing winter walks. Take a bus (yes, this island has cars) to the eastern end to find its wilder side, with dramatic breakwaters and dunes that feel a world away from the city.

20.  Venezia Autentica

Feel like you’ve got shopping fatigue from passing by all those trashy souvenir shops? Take another breath – and let Venezia Autentica guide you towards the kind of places you actually want to shop at. Venice has been known for its world-class artisans for centuries, and this online platform run by two locals has a detailed database of the best of them. Whether it’s a hand-bound notebook, a blown-glass necklace or an actual Venetian mask (not the foreign-made plastic ones you’ll see all over) there are exquisite items out there – and it’s the most sustainable way to shop in this most fragile of cities, too. 

Our first look at Venice's photography museum

@timeouttravel Come with us to Venice’s new photograohy museum, just a hop, skip and a vaporetto ride away from St Mark’s Square. 📸 #venice #veniceitaly #italy #italytravel #traveltiktok #timeouttravel ♬ original sound - Ghibli Shorts

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15 Best Things to Do in Venice

By Andrea Whittle

You'll find part of the appeal of Venice in its layers and contrasts: There are plenty of beautifully preserved palaces, churches and glorious renaissance masterpieces to be sure, but there are also abandoned Byzantine shipyards used to display the world's most cutting edge contemporary art, and house museums that now host avant garde poetry readings and dance shows. It's all about the mix of crumbling old world glamour and mysterious chic. Yes, it's a major tourist town, but with this list of the best things to do, we've tried to guide you towards the stuff that's really worth seeing, be it on everyone's hit list or more of a low-key secret.

St. Mark’s Basilica Arrow

The cathedral anchoring St. Mark's square is so over-the-top beautiful it almost looks imaginary, like a church in a storybook. Outside, it's all Byzantine domes and columns and lions and angels; inside, it's aglow with glittering, gilded mosaics. For those just interested in the architecture, you can visit when there's not a mass in session (it's still very much a functioning church, with regular services), but check the website for the latest on the sometimes-nonsensical opening hours. Also know that, because it's in the Times Square of Venice, the church has had to start limiting crowds in recent years and there's often a long line. Make plans to go early.

Palazzo Fortuny Arrow

Palazzo Fortuny, a Gothic palazzo, was once the home of Mariano Fortuny, the artist, stage designer, and textile designer behind Fortuny Fabrics, which still turns out luxurious damask silks, cut velvets and printed cottons today. As a museum, it's a tribute to his opulent and eclectic taste: Rooms, draped in a patchwork of luxurious textiles or painted in floor-to-ceiling frescoes, are filled with art, antiques, and decor from his collection.

Venetian Arsenal Arrow

Arsenale di Venezia, a massive Byzantine armory and shipyard, was originally built in the 12th century, and it served as the Venetian military HQ for centuries afterwards. Now, its cavernous halls and landscaped gardens are used as one of the main venues for the Biennale, as well as the city's Naval Museum. During the Biennale, the Arsenale is filled with curators, collectors, tourists, and artists checking out the exhibition or relaxing on one of the lawns overlooking the harbor.

Giardini della Biennale Arrow

Every two years, during the Art Biennale, Giardini della Biennale, the leafy garden at the edge of the city, transforms into the Epcot of the art world. Maritime pines and gravel pathways conjoin a series of small pavilions, each pertaining to a different country, and each with its own architectural style. At all other times, the park is simply a beautiful, secluded, walkable, mostly tourist-free green space, with views of the canal and plenty of benches. Getting here is a bit of a trek though though; the park is about a 30-minute walk from San Marco, so if you're there in the heat of summer, consider taking the vaporetto (water bus).

Lauren Burvill

Kaitlin Menza

Charlie Hobbs

Gallerie dell'Accademia Arrow

Gallerie dell'Accademia is Venetian Renaissance 101. Name an important painter from the era—Titian, Canaletto, Bellini, Bosch, Tiepolo—and you can bet you'll find it here, spread among rooms as decadent as the paintings themselves. The collection spans the 13th to 17th centuries and consists mostly of works created in and around Venice. There are a lot of oil paintings, many of them religious masterpieces that have been beautifully restored and displayed. Particularly fun are the historical scenes of Venice, which offer a sense of the city's chaos during its heyday as a merchant capital.

Caffè Florian Arrow

Caffè Florian, in Piazza San Marco, has been open since 1720. In the early days, it was a watering hole for the likes of Proust, Dickens, and Casanova. Now, it's a tourist spot, sure—but it's a charming, beautiful, and an inarguably romantic one. Musicians (which you're paying for by the way—a fee will show up on your bill) play in the square out front, and patrons cluster around low marble tables, sipping hot chocolate and picking delicate pastries off silver trays. For first-timers to Venice, Florian is a glamorous place to stop and refuel.

Church of San Giorgio Maggiore Arrow

The main attraction on San Giorgio Maggiore, a small island next to Giudecca, is the church designed by Andrea Palladio, which has a bell tower with some of the best views in the city. But there are also multiple art foundations, including Fondazione Cini and Le Stanze del Vetro, worth checking out as well. Since the island is only reachable by boat, there's built-in crowd control, making it a perfect choice if you're looking to escape the San Marco fray.

Teatro La Fenice Arrow

The name of Teatro La Fenice, a landmark opera house, means "The Phoenix"—a nod to the fact that it's literally risen from the ashes not once, but three times, most recently after two arsonists burned down everything but the exterior walls in 1996. But it's been rebuilt and restored to its former glory (complete with its world-famous acoustics) by a team of architects and artists who sought to recreate every inch of the way it looked and felt in the 19th century.

Peggy Guggenheim Collection Arrow

This squat palazzo on the Grand Canal was once the home of the eccentric gallerist and collector Peggy Guggenheim, who played a big part in the careers of artists like Jackson Pollock, Max Ernst, and Alberto Giacometti. Today the eponymous museum still maintains the feeling of a private house. Most of the work on display was collected by Guggenheim during her lifetime—and it's some of the best art of the 20th century. In the entryway, two Picassos hang next to a Calder mobile. There are rooms filled with Kandinskys and Brancusis and Pollocks and Dalis. One mantlepiece is lined with Joseph Cornell boxes.

Fondazione Prada Arrow

This gloriously crumbling Baroque palazzo is the Venetian headquarters of Fondazione Prada. Much like the Italian fashion brand's designs, the artistic programming is bold, contemporary, and innovative. There is no permanent collection; instead, the three main floors of the palazzo are used as a project space for immersive exhibitions that often run concurrently with the Biennale. Sometimes, the foundation invites multiple artists to build installations that interact with the architecture; otherwise, curators will utilize every inch of the space to display a survey by one artist.

Pinault Collection Arrow

The contemporary art collection of French billionaire Francois Pinault is split between two Venetian venues: Palazzo Grassi, near the Accademia bridge, and Punta Della Dogana, the former customs house at the tip of Dorsoduro. Both are pretty spectacular, and they present a rotating program of blockbuster exhibitions. The shows at Palazzo Grassi tend to focus on a single living artist, giving them full reign of multiple floors as well as the massive central atrium. Across the canal, Punta Della Dogana usually goes wider, with thematic shows featuring work by multiple artists.

Doge’s Palace Arrow

Palazzo Ducale, an opulent gothic palace overlooking Saint Mark's Square, was the city's government seat (and the Doge's home) from the 14th to 18th centuries. It's been rebuilt and expanded over the years, so it's really a conglomeration of multiple buildings and styles—pretty much all of them over-the-top and glamorous. Visitors have access to various ballrooms, the Doge's former apartments, the grand inner courtyard, and the former prisons. It's run as a museum, so tickets are required.

Fondazione Querini Stampalia Arrow

Part 19th-century house museum, part contemporary exhibition space, part architecture nerd's dream garden, Fondazione Querini Stampalia is a microcosm of everything that's fascinating about Venice. The collection spans centuries and defies categorization: Renaissance paintings by the likes of Bellini and Tiepolo are displayed next to antique instruments, gilded French porcelain is laid out carefully on lace-trimmed tablecloths, and perfectly fluffed pillows sit on gleaming Louis XVI chairs. The garden, designed by the architect Carlo Scarpa in the 1960s, is a maze of geometric fountains and a serene lawn.

Mercato di Rialto Arrow

The fruit, vegetable, and fish market near the Rialto Bridge has been running for hundreds of years, and it's still where local chefs and home cooks come to stock their kitchens. Depending on the season, you'll find local cherries and peaches, artichokes and Treviso radicchio grown on nearby islands, and soft shell crabs and eels pulled straight from the lagoon. The produce market runs from 7:30 am to 1 pm every day except Sunday; the fish market is open those same hours, but Tuesday through Saturday.

Scuola Grande di San Rocco Arrow

Scuola Grande di San Rocco, an ornate Venetian "scuola" (the headquarters of a religious guild), is home to some of the Renaissance painter Tintoretto's best works, which cover the ceilings and walls of the building's two floors. Every inch of this place is decorated: In addition to the more than 60 paintings depicting scenes from the bible, floors are a geometric array of polished stones, every molding is intricately carved and/or gilded, and every wrought-iron lamp is as big as a person.

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• 26 Best Places To Visit In Venice – The Most Beautiful Canal City Of The World

23 Mar 2023

The floating city of Venice looks like a picture postcard with crisscrossing canals, marvellous castles, ancient museums, cathedrals, art galleries, churches, and public squares. The attractions make for the most preferred and best places to visit in Venice and cast a fervent charm on the tourists.

One of the most frequented places by the lovebirds, Venice is truly a charmer attracting millions of tourists around the year. Epitomized by the Grand Canal that runs across the city and picturesque heritage monuments, Venice is where you would love to walk into the sunset.

26 Best Places To Visit In Venice

Here is a quick list of the best places to visit in Venice, Italy, that will make you come back again and again.

1. Grand Canal

Canale Grande or Grand Canal is the most important icon of Venice- lined with gorgeous and vibrant-looking palaces and castles on both sides. The canal is one of the best places to visit in Venice and meanders through the city in a zigzag way with a few breathtaking bridges built over it.

It is one of the most popular places to visit at Venice at night, to enjoy the stunning sunset and watch the sparkling water of the canal.

Don’t Miss: A thrilling and romantic Gondola ride in the Grand Canals makes it one of the must-visit places to visit in Venice for a honeymoon. Also, enjoy the view of the Venetian Gothic and Early Renaissance facades of the palaces that come off the sides. Opening hours: 24 hours Charges:  NA

Must Read: 28 Offbeat Honeymoon Destinations In The World For Trip You’d Have Never Heard Of

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2. Rialto Bridge

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Rialto Bridge is one of the famous landmarks of Venice- built over the Grand Canal in 1588. Besides linking two crowded streets of the city, the bridge is regarded as one of the best places to visit in Venice, Italy. It is an important crossing point of the Canal.

Don’t Miss: Watching the gondolas and boats passing under the bridge, posing on the bridge, watching the adjacent fresh market, and visiting Bartolomeo – one end of the bridge. Opening hours:  24 hours Charges: NA

3. Doge’s Palace

One of the famous places to see in Venice, Doge’s Palace is an immensely beautiful and gorgeous palace, located on the bank of the Grand Canal. During the early days, it was the Seat of Government, the Palace of Justice, and the official residence of Doge. The finesse & soberness of its Venetian Gothic architecture and décor set it a class apart. It is one of the best Venice tourist attractions.

Don’t Miss: Popular tourist attractions like Porta della Carta, Scala dei Giganti, gold vaulted Scala d’Oro, Sala del Collegio, and works of Tintoretto Opening hours: 8:30 am – 7 pm Charges: € 14

Suggested Read: 20 Romantic Things To Do In Rome With Your Amore

4. Basilica Di San Marco

Basilica di San Marco or St Mark’s Basilica is one of the most beautifully designed churches in Italy and Venice’s top attractions. The marvellous décor with gold mosaics and works by Renaissance painters and Byzantine domes are incredibly charming and make it one of the must-visit Venice tourist places. 

Don’t Miss: Pala d’Oro (the golden altarpiece), mosaics designed by Titian & Tintoretto, and Quadriga of St Mark’s (a group of four bronze horses) Opening hours: 9:45 am – 5 pm Charges: € 5

5. Piazza San Marco

Piazza San Marco is the most crowded public square and one of the most happening places to visit in Venice, located in front of St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace. The square is separated from the palace by a small inland waterway, known as the Rio Batario. This is the place where all the government buildings and other offices are located in Venice. It is no doubt one of the best places to visit in Venice.

Don’t Miss: A city tour that covers all the major Venice attractions, a map would suggest. This includes places like St. Mark’s Basilica, The Bell Tower, Doge’s Palace, St. Mark and St. Teodoro of Amasea columns, National Library of St. Mark’s, the Museum of Archaeology, and the Correr Museum

Suggested Read: 10 Tourist Places In Italy That Are Sinfully Gorgeous

6. Gallerie Dell’Accademia

This is one of the most prestigious art galleries and must see places in Venice, Italy known for its rich collection of Venetian paintings. The paintings are arranged chronologically so that one can comprehend the evolution of art forms of the medieval period.

Don’t Miss: Works of Bellini, Carpaccio, Giorgione, Veronese, Tintoretto and Tiziano. Some of the must-see masterpieces are Michelangelo’s David and Slaves, Rape of the Sabines, Cassoni Adimari and Jacopo di Cione. Opening hours: 10 am – 7:15 pm on all days except Monday. The gallery is open from 10 am – 2 pm on Monday. Charges: € 12 + € 1.50 as reservation fee

7. Teatro La Fenice

Don’t Miss: The premieres and performances of famous composers like Rossini, Bellini, Donizetti, and Verdi. Opening hours: 10 am – 6 pm Charges: € 20 onwards

Suggested Read: An Exquisite Venice Honeymoon Guide For A Flawless Experience In This Paradise

8. Ca’ Rezzonico

Ca’ Rezzonico is a public museum located on the bank of the Grand Canal and one of the best places to visit in Venice in 1 day. This is one of the 11 museums managed by Fondazione Musei Civici di Venezia authority and has outstanding collections of paintings and sculptures including masterpieces by Titian, Mantegna, Van Dyck, Tullio Lombardo, and Bernini. The museum also boasts of its marvellous collection of Venetian glasswork and vintage furniture.

Don’t Miss: Famous work of The Allegory of Merit, the picture illustrating the family of Barbarigo, Throne Room, and Chinoiserie-style salon Opening hours: 10 am – 5 pm Charges: € 30

9. Chiesa Della Madonna Dell’Orto

The Church of Madonna dell’Orto is another one of the best places to see in Venice. It was built in the 14th century and dedicated to Saint Christopher Martyr. The church looks gorgeous with its brickwork construction, mullioned and rose windows, stunning arches, geometrical themes, and marble pillars.

Don’t Miss: Sculpture of Madonna with Child, Altarpiece of St John Baptist with Saints Peter, Monument to Gerolamo Cavazza, and Martyrdom of St Lorenzo by Daniel van den Dyck Opening hours: 10 am – 5 pm kjihyut. Charges: € 2.50

Suggested Read: Try These Top 8 Indian Restaurants In Venice To Get The Taste Of Real India

10. Santa Maria Gloriosa Dei Frari

Another name in the top tourist attractions in Venice is Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari, a stunning Gothic church by the Franciscans. The chapel, façade, and the interiors look sober, artistic, and charming. Besides, the church displays some famous historical paintings, figures, and sculptures by the most popular artists of the Renaissance period. Undeniably, this is one of the not-to-be-missed tourist places in Venice.

Don’t Miss the wooden statue of St. John the Baptist by Florentine sculptor Donatello, the Madonna and Child enthroned with Four Saints by Giovanni Bellini, the Monks’ Choir by Marco Cozzi, an altar painting of Assunta by Titian Opening hours: 9 am – 5:30 pm Charges: € 3

11. Jewish Museum

Jewish Museum is one of the noteworthy tourist destinations and famous sites in Venice. It was founded by the Jewish Community of Venice and is located in Campo of the Ghetto Novo. The museum showcases valuable items made by textile makers, goldsmiths, and coppersmiths along with ancient books and manuscripts depicting the civil & religious lives of the community. Visiting this wonderful place is one of the unique things to do in Venice during your trip. 

Don’t Miss: Alef – the Bookshop – and Library archive Opening hours: 10 am – 7 pm from June to September & 10 am – 5:30 pm from October to May Charges: € 4

Suggested Read: 15 Romantic Things To Do In Venice: A Drop-Down Of Everything Magical

12. Scuola Grande Di San Rocco

Scuola Grande di San Rocco is a marvelous-looking heritage building and one of the best places to visit in Venice, initially built for a charitable society office. It is made of white marble with soothing interior décor and comprises a grand entrance, a couple of halls, and an impeccably painted ceiling.

Scuola Grande di San Rocco is famous for possessing many popular artworks of renowned artists like Tintoretto. The walls of the upper hall depict scenes from the New Testament. It should be on your list when exploring Venice!

Don’t Miss: The Glorification of St. Roch, Christ before Pilate, the Ecce Homo, and The Crucifixion by Sala dell’Albergo Opening hours: 9:30 am – 5:30 pm Charges: € 10

13. Santa Maria Della Salute

The Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute or Basilica of St. Mary of Health, popular simply as La Salute, is one of the largest churches and most important tourist places when exploring Venice. This Roman Catholic Church is located by Punta della Dogana between the Grand Canal and the Giudecca Canal.

The church is a huge octagonal structure comprising of bell towers, domes, and a stunning façade decorated by statues of the four evangelists. The interior consists of eight radiating chapels and three altars decorated with paintings of the Virgin Mary. The stunning church is surely one of the not-to-be-missed places to visit in Venice for free.

Don’t Miss: Baroque High Altar, Marriage at Cana by Tintoretto, and St Mark Enthroned by Titian Opening hours: 9 am – 12 noon and 3 pm – 5:30 pm Charges: € 4 (adults), € 2 (students)

Suggested Read: 25 Venice Hotels To Make Your Stay Perfect On An Italian Sojourn

14. Peggy Guggenheim Collection

Situated in the Dorsoduro Sestiere, the Peggy Guggenheim Collection is a modern art museum on the bank of the Grand Canal. The museum is housed in the residence of American heiress Peggy Guggenheim. She had a huge collection of historic artwork, which was showcased to the public after her death. The museum premises comprising of café, bookshops, libraries, and displayed works of lesser-known modern artists are definitely one of the fun places to visit in Venice. The Peggy Guggenheim Collection is one of the main attractions in Venice.

Don’t Miss: Gianni Mattioli Collection, images of Italian futurism by Boccioni & Rudolph, and Hannelore Schulhof Collection Opening hours: 10 am – 6 pm. The museum remains closed on Tuesday. Charges: € 15

Murano is a cluster of islands in the Venetian Lagoon- one of the most popular places of tourist interest in Venice. This assemblage of seven islands linked by bridges and separated by eight canals is famous globally for glass making, glass products, and mirrors; it is hence known as the Glass Island of Venice. It is amongst the famous places in Venice.

Don’t miss: Glass Factories, Glass Museum, and glass Shops, Basilica of Saint Mary & Saint Donatus, The Church of Saint Peter, Campo Santo Stefano, and Palazzo Da Mula Opening hours: NA Charges: NA

Suggested Read: This Winter, Escape To The Best Honeymoon Destinations In Europe

16. Venetian Arsenal

When someone mentions Venice, the tranquil water around the place is definitely something every single one of the visitors looks around. The Venetian Arsenal has been a status of pride around in the country. It has been churning out ships since way back in history and the magnificent wealth and beauty of the country is definitely defined by this enigmatic complex. It is littered around with a wide range of bars and a number of informational displays.

Don’t Miss: Explore the place and go through the display if you wish to get to know a bit more of the history of the place. Opening hours: NA Charges: NA

17. Santi Giovanni E Paolo

The next time you are in Venice, visiting one of the tallest and largest churches around is definitely a must. The Santi Giovanni e Paolo stands tall amidst all the surrounding buildings around. The significance of this place comes because of the fact that 25 of Venice’s dogs are buried there. The red-brick church is built in the Italian Gothic style and stands out as one of the best tourist spots around the place. Explore the explicit tombs and monuments around.

Don’t Miss: Make sure you do not miss Cima da Conegliano’s Coronation of the Virgin and David by Alessandro Vittoria. Opening hours: 8:30 a.m to 12:00 p.m, 3:30 p.m to 6:00 p.m; closed on Mondays Charges: € 3.50

Suggested Read: A Handy Holiday Guide To Venice Tourism-Queen Of Adriatic Sea

18. Museo Correr

The Museo Correr is located around Piazza San Marco and is, definitely, one of the must-visit sites if the art and history of Venice is something that intrigues you. The majestic building has imprints of both the Napoleonic and the Hapsburg features. The wide range of collections of antique coins, artilleries and other features around is definitely something that makes visiting Museo Correr a worthy visit.

Don’t Miss: Don’t miss out on visiting the local museum if you wish to unlock the treasure trove that this place is known for. The Biblioteca Nazionale Marciana is another must-visit. Opening hours: 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m Charges: € 20

19. Venetian Ghetto

Next on the list of the amazing must-visit places around Venice is the Venetian Ghetto. It was established back in 1516 and marks one of the most popular historical spots around Venice. It dates back to being considered as the first ghetto in the city. The place now withholds a wide range of popular Jewish inhabitants and the entire street and locality are infiltrated by Jews all around. Its bustling streets and tourist crowd make it one of the best places to visit in Venice at night. 

Don’t Miss: Explore the buildings and the entire street to glimpse the Jewish lifestyle in Venice. Opening hours: NA Charges: NA

Suggested Read: Experience Stockholm Tour-Venice Of The North On Your Swedish Holiday

20. Lido Di Venezia

If you are tired of the monuments and the rich historical sites around Venice, catch a break out on the beach at Lido di Venezia. It does have a long stretch of sandy beach and is one of the best places to find some peace and recluse in. The sandbar is what lies to the south and the southeast of Venice, facing out to the Atlantic.

Don’t Miss: Enjoy a relaxing time on the beach, far away from the hustle and bustle of the chaotic tourist spots. Opening hours: NA Charges: NA

21. Rialto Market

Next on the list of the amazing spots to visit around Venice is the Rialto Market. Known for its vivid presence of small shacks, shops, and food carts, this is the perfect place to visit after a long day of sightseeing. Located along the Grand Canal, this is one of the most crowded places around. This is quite an infamous and popular spot around Venice. The food market is often the place where the locals source their food from. If you are looking for places to visit in Venice at night, Rialto Market is the best place to be.

Don’t Miss: Try out buying the local produce from the sellers and even indulge in the food from the shacks for a wholesome experience. Opening hours: 7:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Charges: NA

Suggested Read: Venice Simplon Orient Express: For Experiencing The World’s Most Luxurious Train Journey

22. Ponte Dell’Accademia

Opened back in 1854, the Ponte dell’Accademia is one of the only four bridges around Venice which allows pedestrians to walk around to cross the Grand Canal. The bridge is made of wood and metal bits and is situated around the southern end of the canal. This bridge is often a popular spot for couples to visit and rejoice in.

Don’t Miss: Visit the midpoint of the bridge for some eclectic views from there Opening hours: NA Charges: NA

23. Bridge Of Sighs

Don’t get deterred by the name, The Bridge of Sighs is the connecting bridge between the Doge’s Palace and the New Prison. It was constructed back in 1600 and is situated across the Rio di Palazzo. The bridge was designed by popular construction designer Antonio Contino. The bridge is named so because legends have it that the prisoners would sigh at the final view of the bridge.

Don’t Miss: Look around the scenic beauty from atop the bridge. Opening hours: NA Charges:  NA

Suggested Read: This May Day, Venice Plans To Segregate Its Locals & Tourists For Ensuring Sustainable Tourism

24. San Giorgio Maggiore

The San Giorgio Maggiore is a quaint little island located across the lagoon from St. Mark’s Square. It was designed by the famous architect, Andrea Palladio, the beauty of the church lies in the facade clad in gleaming white marble. The open and spacious interiors further add to the beauty of the place even further. The paintings of the “Las Supper” and the “Fall of Manna” adorn the entryway.

Don’t Miss: Ride to the top of the church using the elevator to visit the Neoclassic bell tower and enjoy the panoramic view of the area around. Opening hours: 9:30 to 6:00 pm Charges: No charges, the ride to the top of the bell tower is €6

25. Ca’ D’Oro

Also known as the Palazzo Santa Sofia, the Ca’ d’Oro is considered one of the most enigmatic palazzos that date back to the 15th century. The ornamentation on the pink and white building is definitely something that entrances your attention to the core. It is located near the Grand Canal and is one of the best places to visit in Venice Italy.

Don’t Miss: Have a look at the huge range of paintings, antiques, and sculptures. Opening hours: NA Charges: NA

Suggested Read: Italy In April: A Sunny Slice Of Heaven

Burano is quite picturesque which makes it one of the top places to visit in Venice. The colourful fishermen’s houses make for a great backdrop to click pictures here. One can also buy local items like butter cookies which are called “bussolai buranei”, linen and other products here.

Don’t Miss: Clicking pictures with the colourful houses as the backdrop Opening hours: NA Charges: NA

Further Read: 16 Essential Italy Travel Tips That Will Save You Money, Time & More

Now that you have a pretty sorted list of all the tourist attractions and the best places to visit in Venice, it’s time to book for yourself an Italy trip . Find packages or get them customized for the best value for your vacation! Have a great time exploring all these beautiful places to visit in Venice.

For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here .

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Venice

What are the amazing places to visit in Venice for free?

When looking for exciting places to visit in Venice for free, check out this well-curated list of places that offer mesmerising experiences:

• Piazza San Marco
• Basilica di San Marco
• Ponte di Rialto
• Dorsoduro Ponte dei Sospiri

What is the most famous street in Venice?

The most famous street in Venice is the Grand Canal. This iconic waterway winds its way through the heart of the city, flanked by magnificent historic buildings, showcasing the architectural grandeur of Venice. Lined with colourful palaces, elegant bridges, and bustling Venetian activity, the Grand Canal is not just a street but a symbol of Venice's unique charm and beauty, attracting millions of visitors from around the world.

What are the most visited museums in Venice?

Here is a list of some of the most visited and popular museums in Venice: 1. Gallerie dell'Accademia 2. Doge’s Palace 3. Ca' Pesaro International Gallery of Modern Art 4. Peggy Guggenheim Collection 5. Museo Storico Navale di Venezia

Which are the best places in Venice that can be visited in a day?

Venice is a city you would not want to leave in a day. But if you are looking for-a-day trip to Venice, visit these places for a power-trip. Try to start your trip in the morning at least by 9 and head to these places: 1. Galleria dell’Accademia: Visit duration – 1.30 hours 2. Piazza San Marco: Visit duration – 1 hour 3. Campanile di San Marco: Visit duration – 30 minutes 4. Basilica doi San Marco: Visit duration – 1 hour 5. Palazzo Ducale: Visit duration – 1 hour 6. Ponte dei Sospiri: Visit duration – 15 minutes 7. Riva degli Schiavoni: Visit duration – 1.30 hours 8. San Zaccaria: Visit duration – 45 minutes

What are the must-have experiences in Venice?

Venice is a city where water fills the ground and love fills the air. Just wander in Venice and take a gondola ride through the city, climb the sky-scraping bell tower, take a ride to the Grand Canal in the Vaporetto water bus for a local Venetian experience. The view of the Grand Canal from the Ponte dell’Accademia is something you must not miss.

What are the three famous landmarks in Venice?

Venice is one of the most beautiful destinations in the entire world. With numerous places to visit in Venice, there are three main landmarks that one should definitely not miss out on. These top landmarks in Venice are St. Mark’s Basilica, Palazzo Ducale, and Canale Grande/Grand Canal.

What is Venice famous for?

Also known as the ‘La Dominate’, ‘City of Masks’, or ‘The Floating City’, Venice is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is known for its lagoon, iconic landmarks, and gondola rides.

How many days should I spend in Venice?

If one wants to witness every nook and corner of this beautiful and unmatchable destination, then spending at least a week in Venice would be an ideal choice. However, to majorly cover the busy streets, surreal gondola rides, and shopping areas, a minimum of three days in Venice can also suffice.

What is the best month to visit Venice?

The months when the bitter cold has seen its way out and the spring is right around the corner or when the summer has half passed till winter is about to settle in are considered as the best months to visit Venice. Hence, the months of April, May, September, and October are considered to be the best time for sightseeing around Venice.

How can I get to Venice from Venice airport?

In order to travel from Venice airport to Venice City, one can take the ATVO Express Bus. This bus is a 20-minute ride that runs nonstop from the airport to the Piazzale Roma. One can take this bus ride for 6 euros per person.

Is Venice worth visiting?

The alluring beauty of nature, awe-inspiring architecture, exciting gondola rides, vibrant locals, deeply rooted history, city reeking of charm, and iconic landmarks makes Venice definitely worth visiting at least once in a lifetime.

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The Unknown Enthusiast

Your Ultimate Venice Bucket List: 23 Amazing Things to Do

Check out our ultimate Venice bucket list for the best things to do in the city!

If you’re planning a trip to Venice, you are in for a treat! Venice is such a pretty city, full of interesting things to see and do. I have absolutely loved the time I’ve spent in Venice, and although it’s a popular tourist destination, I definitely think Venice is worth visiting .

This post is your go-to guide for the ultimate Venice Bucket List. Of course, Venice is famous for all of her charming, winding canals filled with floating gondolas. But there’s so much more to this city!

Each spot on our list is a snapshot of Venice’s beauty and charm. Whether you’re marveling at the grandeur of St. Mark’s Basilica, wandering through the vibrant Rialto Market, or crossing the famed bridges, you’ll feel Venice’s unique vibe. It’s a mix of awe-inspiring history and lively present-day culture.

23 Amazing Things for Your Venice Bucket List

1. take a water bus through the grand canal.

One of our favorite memories in Venice was actually riding the water bus through the Grand Canal first thing in the morning. You can buy tickets and pick up the bus at the Piazza Roma at the very top of the Grand Canal, and then ride the bus to the Giardini stop at the far end of the island (or get off at San Marco or wherever you’d like).

I’d highly recommend doing this first thing in the morning, because it’s a much, much more pleasant experience when the boat isn’t too full and you can just sit in the very back and enjoy the view. Trust me, I speak from experience! Riding the water bus in the middle of the day when it’s jam-packed full of people is definitely not the same.

For 9.50€, it’s a great ride through Grand Canal. 

2. Gondola Ride

It’s dreamy and romantic and one of the most “classically Venice” things you can do in the city (and yeah, pretty touristy, but who cares!) – you can’t visit Venice without going on a gondola ride. There are gondolas available for rides all over the city, navigating unique routes through the narrow, winding canals.

While there are a lot of gondolas that go up and down the Grand Canal, I’d actually recommend grabbing a gondola on a quieter back canal and taking the water bus through the Grand Canal. That way you can experience both types of water passageways (and the smaller canals are just so dang charming!).

On our gondola ride, we spent more of the time going through small canals, and then about 5 minutes in the Grand Canal – it was perfect!

It’s 80 € during the day, 100 € at night for a 30-minute ride, and the price is fixed.

3. St Mark’s Basilica

The Basilica di San Marco sits prominently on the Piazza di San Marco (St Mark’s Square) and is a jaw-dropping display of Italo-Byzantine architecture and the wealth that Venice once had. Its exterior boasts domes and archways clad in golden mosaics, complemented by the intricate tracery stonework typical of Venice.

Inside is no less impressive. The many domes and archways are covered in intricate gold-leafed mosaics and are interspersed with colorful mosaics portraying Biblical or religious scenes. The effect is a shimmering golden glow over the basilica. The ground is also covered in intricate tilework.

I’ve visited my fair share of gorgeous and outstanding churches in Europe and around the world, and the St. Mark’s Basilica had my jaw on the floor.

Different Areas : The church includes several must-visit areas (each with its own entrance fee): the main church (3€), the Pala d’Oro (5€), and the Museum + Terraces (7€), each with a separate entrance fee.

The museum, albeit small, offers a close look at the detailed mosaics and the original horses, leading to a terrace with stunning views of the basilica’s exterior, Piazza San Marco, and the Doge’s Palace.

Tickets : Advance ticket purchases are recommended, so you don’t have to stand in line. You can also buy tickets on-site, although this often involves a lengthy wait (we waited 30 minutes to get in).

Pro Tip: A guided tour would be a really good option for a visit to the church, to fully appreciate the history, significance, and craftsmanship of the building. We visited without a tour, but actually really wished we had the benefit of a tour guide as we were exploring the church.

👉This is a great guided tour option of the basilica during the daytime 👉 Alternatively, these night-time tours are a top-rated activity, where you get to experience the basilica illuminated by lights and without the crowds

4. St Mark’s Campanile

At nearly 100 meters tall, St. Mark’s Campanile (aka the Bell Tower) is Venice’s tallest structure and stands proudly outside of the Basilica and the Doge’s Palace in St Mark’s Square.

It was built back in the 10th century as a watchtower to see approaching ships, and also functioned as a landmark to guide ships into the harbor. The current bell tower is actually a reconstruction, after the original collapsed in the early 1900’s.

When you visit, it’s best to buy tickets ahead for a designated time slot, allowing you to walk right in without a wait. An elevator takes you to the top, where you can enjoy open-air, panoramic views over Venice.

From this vantage point, you can see numerous other bell towers and the sprawling Piazza San Marco below. The tower’s bells still ring every hour, echoing through the square, adding to the charm of your visit to this remarkable landmark.

5. Doge’s Palace

The Doge’s Palace sits right next to the St. Mark’s Basilica on St. Mark’s Square, and showcases the wealth and power of the Venetian Republic at the height of its reign. This is one of the top things to do in the entire city.

The Doge was like a duke and was the chief magistrate and leading ruler of Venice. The Palace was both the residence of the Doge and the administrative center of the city.

The palace is full of endless, opulent rooms designed for different councils and meetings, which really highlighted how powerful Venice was and the power that the Doge and magistrates and council members had in the city. 

The ceilings are almost the best part of all the rooms. They essentially have “golden picture frames” around different paintings and murals on the ceilings, and are incredibly detailed and ornate.

Besides regular administrative affairs, the Doge’s Palace also saw high amounts of intrigue, drama, and torture – unsurprising given the amount of power held in the city.

As part of the tour, you’ll cross the Bridge of Sighs that takes you from the palace to the dungeons (so named for the sigh prisoners would give for the last view they would have of the outside world). The tour continues through the dungeons and then ends back in the palace.

I would definitely recommend buying your tickets online in advance, so you can skip the queue. The official website was really confusing, but getting tickets through GetYourGuide was really easy. You can show up anytime, timed entry was not required.

6. Correr Museum

The Museo Correr, located on the far end of St. Mark’s Square, is housed in a former palace and has both beautiful architecture and priceless artwork on display.

Inside, you’ll find spectacular rooms filled with art and sculptures, including works that give a glimpse into Venice’s artistic and historical legacy​ ​.

A Somewhat Random Tip : As a book lover, I really enjoy visiting beautiful libraries around the world, and I saw that the National Library in Venice was open to the public… or so I thought. Turns out that the actual library is only open to users and students, but you can visit the Monumental Rooms of the National Library in the Correr Museum.

Unfortunately, the Monumental Rooms were a little disappointing – beautiful, to be sure, but they also didn’t have any books in them!

Your ticket to the Doge’s Palace also includes entry to the Correr Museum.

7. Bridge of Sighs

The Bridge of Sighs, an iconic Venetian landmark, stretches over the Rio di Palazzo canal, connecting the Doge’s Palace to the historic prisons. This enclosed bridge, made of white limestone and adorned with windows barred with stone, is named for the sighs of prisoners catching their last glimpse of Venice before they get locked away.

The bridge is unique in that it is the only bridge in Venice that connects two buildings instead of two streets.

You’ll walk across the Bridge of Sighs during your visit to the Doge’s Palace, but the best view of the bridge itself is on the Ponte della Paglia, right off of the Riva degli Schiavoni.

8. Riva degli Schiavoni

The Riva degli Schiavoni is a walkway along the water, starting at the Piazza San Marco and continuing east, away from the city’s top attractions. This promenade is really lovely, and you’ll pass several noteworthy spots as you stroll (the viewpoint for the Bridge of Sighs, the Danieli Hotel, and the Chiesa della Pieta church).

This tends to be a pretty busy spot with lots of people and souvenir stands around, but it’s a wide promenade, there’s plenty of space, and the farther you get from Piazza San Marco the quieter it gets.

This is a particularly great spot for watching the sunset as well. Because of the way that Venice is oriented, you don’t really get sunsets over the water, but the evening views from the San Zaccharia F dock , just off of the Piazza San Marco, are really lovely.

9. Hotel Danieli

The Hotel Danieli, a Venetian gem with a pink facade along Riva degli Schiavoni, began as the 14th-century Palazzo Dandolo, built by the noble Dandolo family, and the palace hosted grand social gatherings and lavish parties for the nobility of Venice.

In 1822, the palace was transformed into a hotel, blending its historical grandeur with modern luxury.

When you step inside, you’re welcomed by beautiful marble staircases, archways, chandeliers, and intricately carved ceilings – it truly feels like you’re stepping into a palace.

We didn’t stay in the hotel, but we just stopped in and walked around, enjoying the feeling of having stepped into a palace, listening to the soft melodies being played on a grand piano in the corner of the dining room.

10. Libreria Acqua Alta

Libreria Acqua Alta, Venice’s unique bookstore, is a charming haven for book lovers. Housed in a simple building off a side street, it’s famed for keeping its books in waterproof basins, bathtubs, and even a full-size gondola to protect them from flooding.

It’s certainly a picturesque shop, filled with photo-worthy book displays and a few spots designed as photo-ops.

To avoid crowds and fully enjoy its quaint charm, it’s best to arrive early, ideally right at its 9 AM opening. The space is cozy, and it can get busy quickly, making early visits more enjoyable.

To be honest, I found this shop to be cute, but the aisles are very narrow and make it extremely difficult to navigate through if there are crowds. We got here at 9:30am, and it was busy but tolerable, but by the time we left 20 minutes later, it was packed and not worth it at that point.

I’d only visit if you can get there right at opening, otherwise, I don’t think its worth a stop.

11. Rialto Market

The Rialto Market is an authentic fish and produce market that has been in operation for almost a thousand years! Locals come here daily to pick up the catch of the day (with a wide variety of seafood on display) or peruse the juicy, fresh, vibrant fruits and vegetables available for purchase.

The fish market is pretty stinky, but it’s still fun to walk through and see all of the different types of fish being sold. The produce market has high-quality foods at very reasonable prices, as well as pasta mixes, rice mixes, and herb mixes that are more geared for tourists and are great things to bring home as gifts.

12. Teatro La Fenice

Teatro La Fenice is a gorgeous landmark in Venice that still sees relatively few visitors. The name of the opera house (“ The Phoenix “) certainly foreshadowed its future – the theater has burned down and been rebuilt no less than three times.

The opera hall itself is gorgeous – there is seating on the floor and multiple levels of boxes in a horseshoe shape around the stage. The room is adorned with heavy fabrics, a painted ceiling, gold leafing, and intricate designs and sculptures.

We were in awe standing in the room, and even though we visited during the day, we immediately wanted to come back later to experience a show.  

After you visit the opera hall, don’t miss the singing hall at the top of the staircase. This smaller room is designed for more intimate performances and is just stunning – adorned with delicate pink and cream curlycue designs in marble.  

You can do a guided tour or a self-guided tour – both are great options. If you do self-guided, there is no need to buy a ticket in advance. The actual theater itself is sometimes not open because they are rehearsing for a show – you can check the times online before you go.

13. Rialto Bridge

The Rialto Bridge, Venice’s oldest bridge over the Grand Canal (and one of only four that does so), is an architectural marvel and a symbol of the city.

Initially, a pontoon bridge was built in the late 1100’s, but that floating structure was replaced in 1255 by a more permanent wooden bridge due to increased traffic from people visiting the nearby Rialto market.

​Finally, the current stone bridge that we all know and love was built in the late 1500’s. This large, wide bridge has sets of staircases going up each side that end in a central portico.

As you walk across the Rialto Bridge, you’re treated to stunning views of the Grand Canal. However, to truly appreciate its beauty and architectural ingenuity, it’s best to view it from the walkways along the canal.

Here, you can admire the bridge’s striking design and its integration into the vibrant life of Venice, making it a must-visit on any trip to the city.

14. T Fondaco Rooftop Terrace

T Fondaco Dei Tedeschi is a luxury shopping mall just around the corner from Rialto Bridge, and the very top of the mall has a rooftop terrace with some of the best views over the Grand Canal.

The best part about the terrace? It’s totally free to visit. You do need to make a timed-entry reservation to enter. These spots open up a week ahead of time and are usually gone within 1-2 days of becoming available.

15. Santa Maria della Salute

The Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute, commonly known as the Salute, is one of Venice’s most notable churches. It sits right at the southern tip of the Grand Canal. The interior has beautiful sculptures, some small chapels, and open space right under the dome.

The basilica was constructed in response to the devastating plague of 1630, and is in honor of the deliverance of Venice from the plague – the name “Salute” meaning “health.” Built in a beautiful Baroque style, the art inside bears references to the Black Death​ ​.

The Salute’s dome has become a defining feature of the Venetian skyline, with the tall dome rising prominently against the backdrop of the surrounding sea.

16. San Giorgio Maggiore

Visiting the little island of San Giorgio Maggiore should definitely be a part of your  itinerary for Venice !

The island offers beautiful views of the main island, and a chance to experience a quieter part of the Venetian lagoon. The island holds the Church of San Giorgio Maggiore, built in the 16th century. It was designed by Palladio.

Even before you go to the island, you have to snap photos of the pristine white basilica from San Marco.

The campanile, similar to the one in San Marco, has a lift that you can ascend for views, not only of the main island but also other islands like Giudecca. Inside, look for two large paintings by Tintoretto.

Today the small island has an arts center and a theater If you visit during an exhibition, you may be able to see some of the art on display. Stroll around the church and take in the views of the boats in the harbor and the water before you head back.

Getting to San Giorgio Maggiore is easy: you simply ride the Vaporetto from San Marco.

17. Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo

What might be a hidden gem is the Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo, a small palazzo in Venice. It’s a must see place and perfect for a weekend getaway in Venice .

The panoramic views from here are simply breathtaking. There is a beautiful spiral staircase known as the Scala Contarini del Bovolo which you can climb.

At the top you’ll find a stunning vista of Venice’s red-tiled rooftops and picturesque canals. Gothic, Renaissance, and Byzantine styles are blended together and showcased in the palace’s architecture. 

Top tips for visiting: Take your time exploring each level, capturing the stunning cityscape at various heights. Don’t forget your camera for that perfect shot! To avoid crowds, aim for early morning or late afternoon. 

Buy tickets ahead online. A full ticket costs 8 € but there are reduced tickets for children and elderly at € 6.

The palazzo is located on a hidden street near Campo Manin, about halfway between Campo San Bartolo and Campo Santo Stefano, which are both not too far from Rialto.

18. Madonna dell’Orto Church

The neighborhood of Cannaregio in Venice  isn’t the most popular part of the Floating City, but there is one compelling reason to explore it, hidden away on the city’s quiet northern shore.

Cannaregio is home to several fine Venetian churches, and the best of these is Madonna dell’Orto, between the Ghetto and Cannaregio Canal. It’s named after a statue of the Virgin Mary believed to have healing properties.

But its main claim to fame is that it was the parish church of the great Venetian artist Tintoretto, and has one of the two best collections of his work in the world.  It’s also his burial place.

Jacopo Robusti was born in 1518, the son of a dyer – hence his later name, Tintoretto. He spent most of his life in Venice, which included a brief, turbulent apprenticeship to another great Venetian master, Titian. 

Some of his greatest works are in Madonna dell’Orto. His superb  Last Judgment  is perhaps the best-known work on display. However several others can also be seen, including  St Peter’s Vision of the Cross  and  The Beheading of St Paul .       

If you visit Madonna dell’Orto, try to coincide it with the opening times of the Casa di Tintoretto, the house where the artist lived on the Fondamenta dei Mori.

19. Crypt of San Zaccaria Church

The flooded crypt of San Zaccaria Church is a unique attraction in Venice, steps away from San Marco Square.

It is mostly overlooked by tourists because, from the outside, it looks just like another church. However, San Zaccaria Church, which dates from the 9 th  century, is special.

As you enter the church you will see its impressive and unique to Northern Europe architecture, with its walls covered in paintings by famous artists of the 17 th  and 18 th  centuries.

The entrance to the church is free, but to see the crypt and the Golden Chapel, you will have to pay 3 euros. 

The crypt is flooded, and you can’t really walk around it. You can descend a staircase, in two different areas, to see it though. The crypt has eight tombs inside, where early doges of Venice are buried.  

Besides the crypt, the ticket also includes access to the Golden Crypt, which has part of the original mosaic floor, from the 9 th  century.

The Choir Chapel, which is at the entrance of the crypt, has some very famous paintings hanging on the walls, including a large work by Tintoretto.

The flooded crypt of San Zaccaria Church is without a doubt a  hidden gem in Venice , so don’t miss it when you visit the city.

20. Sample Cicchetti

Cicchetti is one of Venice’s delicious local cuisine, and you can find it throughout the city. Very similar to tapas, cicchetti is composed of slices of crusty bread topped with various assortments of meat, seafood, cheese, and sauces.

Since we were in Venice, seafood features prominently in cicchetti toppings, but you can also find options like caprese.

21. Visit the Island of Murano

Another thing you absolutely need to add to your Venice bucket list is a day trip to Murano .

Murano, a small archipelago consisting of seven individual islands connected by bridges, is just a short 10-minute ferry ride from Venice.

Exactly like Venice, Murano has its own Canale Grande running down from one end of the island to the other. Although it’s not as big as the original one it’s still great to see all the old buildings on each side of it.

Another place you shouldn’t miss seeing in Murano is the Church of Santa Maria e San Donato. Apparently, the basilica contains bones of a slain dragon that can be found behind the altar.

However, the main reason why a trip to Murano is a must-do is neither the church nor the smaller Canale Grande. It’s the long tradition of glass-making. Visitors from all over the world come to this island to purchase the most gorgeous things made out of the iconic Murano glass.

To understand this tradition a bit better, plan a visit to the Museo del Vetro where you’ll learn the story of glass through many centuries. And don’t forget to buy a small glass figure as a souvenir!

22. Visit the Island of Burano

When it comes to Venice bucket list activities, it is worth mentioning not only the center of Venice but also the surrounding smaller islands. One of these is the island of Burano, a real highlight in the area.

Burano is a small island in the Venetian Lagoon, relatively far from Venice, but can be easily reached by regular Vaporetto service.

If you are in Venice, it is worth spending a half or whole day in Burano. The main attraction of the island is its brightly colored houses. Seeing the increasingly colorful streets, strolling along the canals, or taking a boat trip around the area are all great experiences.

Burano is also famous for its lace-making, which has a centuries-old historical tradition. For those interested in local history, a visit to the Lace Museum is also recommended.

While in Burano, don’t miss the local Italian restaurants, where you can sample Italian cuisine in a more peaceful and charming setting than in the bustling center of Venice.

All in all, whether you are traveling specifically to Venice or as a stop on a  longer Italian journey , Burano is a destination that is highly recommended to visit.

23. Visit Lido Island

As discussed above,  the enchanting Burano  is a great place to visit, and popular for tourists. But you should also consider a visit to Lido!

Just a 20 minute vaporetto ride from the Venice train station, Lido Island offers the closest beach to Venice itself, and is also well-known for the Venice Film Festival. 

Lido Beach is the most popular beach on the Island with white sands and great views. Others include Alberoni – a wild beach, popular with locals and a bit isolated, and Blue Moon Beach, which stretches along the exquisite hotels and has several amazing restaurants nearby.

But Lido is not only about the beaches. Malamocco is a charming village, connected to Lido by several bridges. The most significant buildings in the village are Santa Maria Assunta Church, Palazzo del Podestà, and Ponte Borgo.

Strolling along Viale Santa Maria Elisabetta will allow you to see numerous beautiful historic buildings – we loved the astonishing facade of Grande Albergo Ausonia & Hungaria.

The historical Church of San Nicolo hosts the famous Festa della Sensa dedicated to the marriage between Venice and the sea.

Venice Bucket List – The Wrap Up

Venice definitely belongs on your northern Italy itinerary (along with amazing destinations like Milan and Lake Como !) There are so many interesting things to do and places to see in Venice. You could easily spend many days, weeks even, exploring this fairytale city.

Stephanie is the author of The Unknown Enthusiast. She's visited 21 countries and 37 of the 50 US states (but her first love will always be France). When she's not traveling, she enjoys reading, taking naps, playing games, eating popcorn, and spending time with her husband (Matthew) and 4 daughters. Stephanie lives in Alabama, USA.

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Visit Venice: Top 31 Things To Do and Must-See Attractions

Things to do in venice: the 31 best places to visit and highlights.

You’re planning to visit Venice during your next trip?

Great choice!

With its charming canals and the numerous activities you can do in Venice , you will for sure enjoy your trip to this city built on water, often referred to as “The Floating City”.

In order to help you plan your stay, I have prepared this guide of the 31 best things to do in Venice , with all points of interest and must-see attractions.

In addition to this list of things to do and places to visit, I will also give you itineraries to visit Venice in 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 days (or even a week!) as well as my selection of the best accommodations depending on your budget.

So, what are the best things to do in Venice? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

Best way to save time and money: Buy a city pass to visit Venice

1. grand canal gondola ride, 2. st. mark’s square, 3. st. mark’s basilica, 4. st mark’s campanile, 5. doge’s palace, 6. ponte dell’accademia: the best photo spot over venice grand canal, 7. rialto bridge, 8. bridge of sighs, 9. san giorgio maggiore, 10. peggy guggenheim collection, 11. santa maria della salute, 12. ca’ d’oro, 13. basilica di santa maria glorious dei frari, 14. scuola grande di san rocco, 15. rialto market – food tour in venice, 16. teatro la fenice, 17. attending a classical concert or an opera in venice, 18. ca’ rezzonico, 19. scala contarini del bovolo, 20. accademia gallery, 21. libreria acqua alta, 22. museo correr, 23. basilica di san giovanni e paolo, 24. santa maria formosa, 25. chiesa di santa maria dei miracoli, 26. museo di storia naturale, 27. museo storico navale, 28. visit the venetian islands: murano, burano, torcello, 29. lido beach, 31. discover the prosecco wine region, 32. bonus – the dolomite mountains, one day in venice, 2 days in venice, 3 days in venice, 4 days in venice, 5 days in venice (or more), where to stay in venice, tourist map of venice, best time to visit venice, you’re traveling in italy these articles will help you.

In order to help you plan your stay in Venice, I have prepared detailed itineraries depending on your trip duration . You should read them after reading this article.

You can find them here, simply click on the orange links to read the articles:

• 2 Days in Venice – An Epic 48h itinerary
• 3 Days in Venice – The perfect 72h itinerary
• 4 Days in Venice – Itinerary + Best Things to do + Tips

They will allow you to plan your trip very easily!

And if you have any question, don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments section located at the end of each guide. I would be glad to help you plan your stay.

If you’re planning to discover the city’s most iconic monuments during your trip to Venice, I strongly recommend you to get a City Pass.

It’s the best way to save money and avoid queueing!

Depending on what you want to do in Venice, you can choose between 2 city passes:

1) The Venice City Pass. It includes:

• Entry to Doge’s Palace
• Entry to 11 museums 
• Entry to 16 churches on the Chorus circuit
• Entry to the Querini Stampalia Foundation 
• Transportation on the ACTV network waterbus and bus (this is optional, you can choose to add it or not when you buy your city pass).

To buy your Venice City Pass, simply click on the green button below:

2) The Venice Pass, which includes the following attractions:

• Skip the line ticket for Saint Mark’s Basilica
• Fast track admission ticket to the Doge’s Palace
• A gondola ride
• A self guided audio tour (to download on your phone)

To buy your Venice Pass, click on the green button below:

So, which city pass should you get?

Personally, I would recommend the Venice Pass (click here) , as it includes the 3 most important things to do in Venice!

When you think about Venice, the first thing that comes to your mind is probably the iconic gondola rides along the city’s famous waterways.

The Grand Canal , the main waterway of Venice, offers a unique perspective of the city’s architecture and will allow you to get a good overview of the city of canals.

So during your trip to Venice, you will for sure want to take a gondola ride along the Grand Canal!

Float along the canal, admire the historic buildings, palaces and bridges that line the waterway, and simply enjoy the romantic atmosphere of the city.

A gondola ride is included with the Venice Pass.

Keep in mind: The gondola rides are extremely popular, especially during peak season, so you should really book your gondola ride in advance to secure your spot (and a decent price!).

You need to book your gondola ride by clicking on the green button below:

You prefer to enjoy a private VIP Gondola ride in Venice at night time ? No problem, you need to book it by clicking here.

And if you’re looking for the original and off the beaten path version, you can actually explore Venice Canals with a kayak tour! It needs to be booked by clicking there.

Let’s continue your visit to Venice and head to the famous St. Mark’s Square , the main square of the city.

This hub of Venetian life and history is home to:

• The iconic St. Mark’s Basilica (#3 of my list of the best things to do in Venice), a stunning example of Italo-Byzantine architecture.
• St mark’s Campanile (#4), for a great view over Venice
• The Doge Palace (#5), another historical landmark of Venice located on St Mark’s square.

In the square, you will also find numerous cafes where you can sit, have a drink, and soak in the ambiance of the city.

Located on St Mark’s Square, the iconic St. Mark’s Basilica is a must-see in Venice.

Known as the “Church of Gold” it showcases the wealth and power Venice wielded in the past.

As you approach the Basilica, you’ll immediately notice its stunning Italo-Byzantine architecture.

But once you step inside, it’s the golden mosaics covering the interior  and the famous Pala d’Oro altar , adorned with thousands of gems, that really steal the show.

And for an amazing view over St Mark’s square, head to the Basilica’s terrace , included in your priority ticket.

St Mark’s Basilica opening hours: the Basilica usually opens at 9:30 AM, and the last admission is at 4:00 PM. Keep in mind that these times can vary depending on the season and religious services.

Remember, as a religious site, the Basilica requires visitors to dress modestly. That means your shoulders and knees should be covered.

Don’t be fooled!

Some websites sell tickets to the basilica that just offers access to the ground floor. They sell them for 20€ and it’s basically worthless.

The real tickets to St Mark’s basilica includes:

• Priority access to the basilica
• Access to ground floor
• Access to St.Mark’s Museum
• Access to the Pala D’oro
• Access to the Terrace (amazing view over St Mark’s Square)

To buy the real tickets to St Mark’s basilica , the ones that include everything, simply click on the button below:

The Venice Pass   also included the fast track ticket to Saint Mark’s Basilica. 

And if you want to learn more about St Mark’s Basilica , you should book a guided tour. I recommend you to book that one , or to have a look at all tickets and guided tour to St Mark’s Basilica there:

To enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the city , you can climb to the top of St Mark’s Campanile .

The Campanile is located in St Mark’s Square , right next to St Mark’s Basilica. It stands at an impressive 98.6 meters tall, making it one of the highest structures in Venice.

For your convenience, a lift will take you to the top of the tower . Once there, you can enjoy a stunning 360-degree view of the city .

From this vantage point, you can see the entirety of Venice, the lagoon, and even as far as the Dolomite Mountains on a clear day.

As there is only 30 tickets for each time slots , you really need to book your visit as early as possible.

Access to the top of St Mark’s Campanile costs 15€, but trust me, the view is worth every penny!

You need to book your priority ticket to St Mark’s Campanile by clicking on the button below:

Let’s end your tour of St. Mark’s Square monuments with a visit to the Doge’s Palace, one of the best places to visit in Venice.

This beautiful Gothic style palace used to be the residence of the Doge , the supreme authority of the Republic of Venice.

You can explore the beautiful chambers, admire the incredible art , and get a sense of the history and power of the Venetian Republic.

One of the highlights is the famous Bridge of Sighs , which you will pass through during your visit!

The Doge’s Palace is one of the busiest Venice attractions, so you should ideally visit early in the day to avoid the crowds.

Entry to the Doge Palace is included in Venice city Pass and Venice Pass.

If you don’t have the City Pass, you need to book fast track tickets by clicking on the button below:

You want to do a VIP guided tour of both the St Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace?

In that case, the best way to save money is to book a combined guided tour.

The best one needs to be booked here:

And if you’re looking for an off the beaten path visit, the Secret of Doge’s Palace VIP tour is for you! You need to book it by clicking here.

When you’re visiting Venice, you shouldn’t miss the opportunity to snap a few photos at the Ponte dell’Accademia .

This iconic wooden bridge , one of only four that cross the Grand Canal, offers exceptional views that you can’t get anywhere else.

The view from the bridge is truly postcard-perfect , featuring the Grand Canal , the dome of Santa Maria della Salute , and Venetian palazzos in the background.

It’s a favorite spot for photographers , and you’ll certainly want to capture a few memories of your own here!

Getting the best shot requires a bit of timing: my favourite moment to take a picture from the Ponte dell’Accademia is early in the morning, to get the sunrise in the frame.

But if you don’t want to wake up early, no worries! The scenery is worth a picture all day long 😄.

Let’s continue this list of the best things to do in Venice with the Rialto Bridge , the oldest bridge spanning the Grand Canal.

A hallmark of Venetian architecture, the bridge is also home to numerous shops where you can buy everything from souvenirs to Venetian glass. You should definitely take a moment to appreciate the panoramic view of the canal from the bridge.

Nearby, you’ll find the vibrant Rialto Market , where locals shop for fresh produce and seafood. It’s a great place to take in local life and even grab a bite.

The Rialto Bridge can be quite crowded during the day, so you might want to consider visiting early in the morning or later in the evening for a quieter experience and a lovely view of the sunset .

Another great option to avoid (most of) the crowds is to opt for the Unusual Walking Tour. It’s the perfect way to discover Venice hidden gem’s with a friendly guide!

Simply click on the button below to book it:

And if you’re looking for something original and want to visit Venice at night, there is a pretty good ghost tour in Venice, you can book it here.

While you’re near Doge’s Palace , you should take a moment to admire the Bridge of Sighs .

This famous Venetian bridge has a fascinating history. It was the last view of Venice that convicts saw before their imprisonment , hence the name.

For a unique experience, you can see the bridge from the water on a gondola ride. Alternatively, the view from the neighboring bridges is also fantastic.

A great spot to photograph the Bridge of Sighs is from the Ponte della Paglia , the bridge located right behind it.

As I mentioned above, you will walk thorough the bridge during your visit to the Doge’s Palace, but if you want to admire it from beneath, you will need to book this Gondola ride:

You’re going to Venice?

You probably know it: the hardest part of planning your trip is to find an hotel offering a good value for money!

And that’s even worse in big touristic cities like Venice 😅.

The closer you get to your travel dates, the harder it will be to get a good deal. Lots of people will be visiting Venice on the same dates as you , so you can be sure that the best deals are booked extremely quickly!

Hopefully, there is a pretty simple solution to this problem: do like me and book your hotel as early as possible!

So, my best advice is to take 5 minutes (now) to have a look at the list of travelers’ favorite hotels in Venice.

And if you see a good offer, book it!

Most hotels offer free cancellation, so it’s quick, easy, and you will avoid the the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the current best deals for your hotel in Venice, simply click on the green button below 😎:

Once you’ve booked your hotel, it will be time to continue reading this guide and find out more about the best things to do in Venice!

If you’re keen on escaping the hustle and bustle of Venice’s main islands, you should go on a short trip to San Giorgio Maggiore.

This small island is home to a beautiful church and a bell tower , offering one of the finest views of Venice.

San Giorgio Maggiore Church , a gem designed by the famous architect Andrea Palladio , stands majestically on the island. Its white façade against the blue Venetian sky is truly a picturesque sight!

Inside, you can see remarkable artworks , including Tintoretto’s “The Last Supper”.

After exploring the church, make sure to visit the bell tower . Just like for the one in St. Mark’s Square, a small fee and a short lift ride will get you to the top!

From there, the panoramic view of Venice is simply breathtaking. It’s a perfect spot for capturing splendid photos of the city, especially during sunset.

If you prefer, you can also visit San Giorgio Maggiore with a guided tour.

The best one is a small group tour (limited to 9 participants only) that includes a boat tour, the visit to the church and the ticket to climb the San Giorgio Maggiore Bell Tower.

You need to book it here:

Last but not least, if you’re an art enthusiast , or simply want to enjoy an off the beaten path visit , you should go to the Cini Foundation , located on the island. This cultural institution hosts a rich collection of art and a library specializing in art history.

You need to book your tickets to Cini Foundation by clicking here.

So, how do you get to San Giorgio Maggiore?

Simple, you can catch a vaporetto (water bus) from St. Mark’s Square. The journey is short, but scenic. Remember to check the vaporetto schedule and tickets in advance.

To take the Vaporetto, the easiest is to buy the ACTV Card that includes unlimited access to the buses and water buses an (cheap boat trips yeahhhh! 😎). To get it, you can:

• Buy the Venice City Pass (click here) and choose the public transport option.
• Buy the ACTV Card (also called Vaporetto pass) on its own.

If you are interested in modern art, you should definitely visit the Peggy Guggenheim Collection.

The museum is housed in Palazzo Venier dei Leoni, an unfinished 18th-century palace which was the home of Peggy Guggenheim for 30 years.

It showcases her extensive art collection, featuring masterpieces from renowned 20th-century artists like Picasso, Pollock, Kandinsky, and Dali.

Don’t miss the sculpture garden , it offers a peaceful break with a wonderful view over the Grand Canal.

You need to book your ticket to Peggy Guggenheim Collection by clicking here:

And if you want to learn more about the artworks, you can book a tour with a private art guide:

Please note that if you book the guided tour, you will also need to book your tickets to the museum separately (with the other button above).

Let’s now talk about Santa Maria della Salute , an iconic baroque church located at the entrance to the Grand Canal.

You can admire its grand exterior from various points in Venice , including the Ponte dell’Accademia and the St Mark’s Campanile I mentioned above.

In addition, you should also go take a closer look at its interior, which is equally impressive with stunning frescoes and art pieces.

Entry is free , and the church is generally less crowded than other sites in Venice, offering a moment of relative tranquility amidst your other visits.

Also known as the Golden House, Ca’ d’Oro is another must-visit site when in Venice.

This beautiful example of Venetian Gothic architecture houses the Galleria Giorgio Franchetti , an important Renaissance art collection.

You can visit the Galleria, and enjoy stunning views over the Grand Canal from the loggia.

You need to book your ticket for the Ca’ d’Oro and the Galleria Giorgio Franchetti by clicking on the button below:

The Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari, more commonly known as Frari , is a magnificent 13th-century Gothic church.

It’s is not just another religious building in Venice. It’s a treasure trove of art and a historic resting place for Venetian greats, including the famous painter, Titian.

As you step inside Frari, you will discover numerous paintings, sculptures, and architectural features that makes the Basilica truly unique.

The early mornings and late afternoons usually have fewer crowds, allowing for more personal experience of this Venetian gem.

If you enjoy Renaissance art, the Scuola Grande di San Rocco should definitely be on your Venice itinerary.

Located close to the Basilica di Santa Maria Glorious dei Frari I just talked about and known as the ‘Sistine Chapel of Venice’, this confraternity building hosts amazing works by Tintoretto , a famous Venetian artist.

You can admire numerous paintings on the walls and ceiling.

There is so much to see everywhere that they even provide mirrors to avoid straining your neck while admiring the ceiling artwork!

Tickets for the Scuaola Grande di San Roco need to be purchased on site.

One of the experiences you shouldn’t miss while in Venice is a visit to the Rialto Market .

This bustling market is a feast for the senses with its wide array of fresh local produce, seafood, and Venetian specialties .

You can explore the various stalls, sample local delicacies , and maybe even have a little picnic with your market finds!

The market is most vibrant in the morning, so it’s best to go early to see the true bustle of Venetian life . Also, don’t forget to try the local seafood – it’s incredibly fresh!

If you want to discover Venice’s gastronomy and typical products , you should book a street food guided tour with a local guide.

It’s clearly the best way to discover off the beaten track places and enjoy great italian food, including typical Cicchetti (local tapas)!

To book it, you simply have to click on the button below:

And if you’re a wine lover , you should probably opt for this other tour , which also offers tasting of 5 high quality wines: Guided tour of Venice wine bars + food tastings .

Known as the Phoenix Theater, Teatro La Fenice is one of the most famous opera houses in the world.

While it’s a great venue to enjoy a concert or opera, even without a show ticket, you can still explore its architectural beauty.

And I strongly recommend you to do so!

From the grandeur of the auditorium to the elegance of the Apollonian Halls , it’s a really nice visit to do in Venice.

Teatro La Fenice is easily accessible by vaporetto (don’t forget to get your Venice City Pass with transport option or ACTV Card ). The closest stops are Sant’Angelo and Rialto.

If you’re already near St. Mark’s Square , the opera house is only a 5-minute walk away. Remember, getting lost in Venice is part of the charm!

Tickets to visit Teatro La Fenice need to be bought by clicking on the button below:

And if you want to learn every secret of the opera house , you should book the guided tour by clicking here. The guided tour also includes a priority entrance.

If you would like to attend a classical concert or an Opera in Venice , you can of course book one on the website of Teatro La Fenice .

However, there are also more intimate concerts , that are cheaper and totally worth it!

Here are my 2 favourites (simply click on the orange links for more info and to book):

Four Seasons concert at Vivaldi Church: attend a classical concert at Santa Maria della Visitazione, nicknamed “Vivaldi’s church”. You might not know it, but the famous composer was actually venetian!

Opera in an historic palace on  the Grand Canal: if you’re up for a truly Venetian experience, how about an opera in a historic palace on the Grand Canal? It’s a magical blend of music, history, and the unique charm of Venice.

It’s really a once in a lifetime experience, I loved it!

If you’re keen to dive into Venice’s rich history, Ca’ Rezzonico is the place for you.

This palatial museum of 18th century is filled with beautiful furniture, frescoes, and artwork. You can easily spend 2 hours exploring the various rooms and exhibits. The Ballroom is especially impressive!

The museum also offers stunning views over the Grand Canal.

Access to Ca’Rezzonico is included with Venice city Pass .

Scala Contarini del Bovolo is a hidden gem in the heart of Venice.

This ornate spiral staircase provides an amazing panoramic view of the city . As you climb the steps, you’ll be greeted with a different perspective of Venice at each level.

This remarkable architectural structure is often overlooked by tourists, making it a perfect spot for a more tranquil and unique experience.

To visit, you need to book your tickets in advance here:

You will also pass by Palazzo Contarini is also included in the “Venice secret spots” walking tour. You need to book it by clicking here.

Art enthusiasts should make sure to visit the Accademia Gallery , one of the most important art museums in Italy .

The museum hosts an extensive collection of Venetian painting from the 14th to the 18th centuries, including masterpieces by artists such as Titian, Tintoretto, and Canaletto.

If you want to immerse yourself in the rich art history of Venice , the Accademia Gallery is one of Venice highlights.

To ensure a smooth visit, you should book your tickets in advance on the official website.

Try to allocate at least 1h30 for your visit to the Accademia Gallery, as there is a lot to see.

Tucked away in one of Venice’s quieter corners, Libreria Acqua Alta is a unique bookstore that has become a favorite among tourists and locals alike.

Its name translates to “Bookstore of High Water,” a fitting name as the store is filled with bathtubs, waterproof bins, and even a gondola , all filled with books to protect them from the city’s frequent floods.

Apart from its unconventional storage methods, the bookstore is known for its wide range of books, from brand new bestsellers to antique books, all stacked in no particular order.

If you’re a book lover, visiting Libreria Acqua Alta is a must. It’s a unique experience that perfectly encapsulates Venice’s charming and unconventional spirit.

Plus, you might even find a special souvenir to remind you the best of Venice!

Located at the far end of St. Mark’s Square, Museo Correr is an often-overlooked museum in Venice that offers a fascinating insight into Venetian art, history, and culture.

And it would be a shame to miss it, as the entrance to Museo Correr is included in the Doge’s Palace ticket!

The museum houses a vast collection of artworks, historical documents, maps, coins, and more that span centuries.

One of the museum’s highlights is the Neoclassical section, which houses works from Canova, one of Italy’s greatest sculptors.

It also offers a stunning view of St. Mark’s Square from its windows – a perfect photo opportunity.

Remember to book your tickets to the Doge’s Palace (that include Correr museum) by clicking here.

The Basilica di San Giovanni e Paolo, known in Venice as San Zanipolo , is one of the city’s largest and most important churches .

It holds a special place in Venice’s history, as many Doges (leaders of the Venetian Republic) are buried here, lending it the nickname “Pantheon of Venice.”

The basilica’s stunning interior is filled with precious art pieces, including paintings by famous Venetian artists such as Veronese and Bellini.

However, the real charm of this place lies in its tranquil, relatively undiscovered status.

One of Venice’s oldest churches, Santa Maria Formosa , is not only a place of worship but also a storehouse of local legends.

As the story goes, the Virgin Mary herself appeared to St. Magnus, the bishop of Oderzo, in a vision and instructed him to build a church in her honor at this site.

In addition to the grandeur of the church and its beautiful bell tower, the area around Santa Maria Formosa is a charming part of Venice known for its art galleries and boutique stores.

As you walk around the neighborhood, you will find numerous unique pieces of Venetian artistry and craftsmanship to bring back home.

Included in the City Pass.

The Chiesa di Santa Maria dei Miracoli, often called the Miracle Church , is a small but really nice church from the Renaissance period, notable for its marble-clad exterior and interior.

Despite its small size, it packs a lot of detail that is worth taking the time to appreciate.

For those with a love for nature and the sciences , Venice’s Museo di Storia Naturale , or Natural History Museum, offers a fascinating journey through our natural world.

Housed in the stunning Fondaco dei Turchi, a palace with its origins dating back to the 13th century, the museum’s exhibits span millions of years of natural history.

From prehistoric fossils to displays showcasing present-day biodiversity and ecology , this museum is the perfect place to learn more about life on Earth.

You need to book your tickets to the Museo di Storia Naturale by clicking on the button below:

Entrance to the museo is included with Venice city Pass .

If you’re looking for things to do in Venice with children , Venice Natural History Huseum is the ideal cultural visit.

Its interactive exhibits offer a fun and educational experience .

And don’t forget to soak up the stunning views of the Grand Canal from the museum’s windows!

While you’re in the St. Mark’s area, consider a visit to the Museo Storico Navale , or the Naval History Museum.

This museum, located in the Castello district, offers a deep dive into Venice’s maritime history.

From the grand ship models to naval instruments and weapons , this museum gives you a comprehensive view of Venice’s naval prowess and its maritime history.

It’s a must-visit for history buffs.

The Naval History Museum can be visited on the same day as your tour of St. Mark’s Square and Basilica, given its proximity.

Best Things to Do Around Venice

Venice’s charm doesn’t stop at the city’s borders!

After discovering all the best places to visit in Venice, you should spend some time to visit the surroundings .

In order to help you plan your visits, here are the 4 best day trips from Venice.

Murano, Burano and Torcello are 3 islands in the Venetian lagoon that are each worth a day trip.

Murano, most famous for its centuries-old tradition of glassmaking, offers tourists the chance to visit glass factories or ‘fornaci’, where skilled artisans mold glass into intricate designs.

You can also visit the Museo del Vetro , where you’ll see historic and contemporary glass art.

From Murano, take a short boat ride to Burano, recognizable by its vibrant, multicolored houses. While here, make sure to visit a lacemaking workshop to witness a craft that dates back to the 16th century.

End your day at Torcello, the oldest inhabited island in the lagoon. I ts main attraction is the Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta, home to stunning Byzantine mosaics.

If you want to do this day trip on your own , please note that Murano glass museum and Burano lace Museum are both included in the Venice City Pass.

It’s very convenient!

Else, If you’re looking for an hassle-free solution , you can visit Murano, Burano and Torcello from Venice with an organised day trip.

The 6h guided tour includes the 3 islands and starts from St Mark’s Square. You need to book it by clicking on the button below:

And if you prefer a shorter tour (4h), you can opt for the one that only goes to Murano and Burano. Simply click here to book it.

For a change of scenery, you can take a vaporetto (as always, you need your Venice City Pass with transport option or ACTV Card ) to Lido Beach .

This long stretch of sand is the perfect place to unwind after a few days of sightseeing. Rent a cabana and relax in the sun , take a refreshing dip in the Adriatic Sea, or enjoy a picnic with local Italian delicacies.

Alternatively, you can take a walk around the island or rent a bike to discover its Art Nouveau villas, charming streets , and lush gardens.

Last but not least, Lido is also home to the Venice Film Festival, which takes place every September at the historic Palazzo del Cinema.

If you’re planning to spend a few days in Venice, you should consider a day trip to Verona , a nearby city listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Located only 1h30 drive from Venice, Verona is famous for its Roman history and the legendary love story of Romeo and Juliet.

Start your visit at the Verona Arena, a well-preserved Roman amphitheater that hosts opera performances in the summer.

Wander through the city’s cobblestone streets   and head to Juliet’s House , where you can see the famous balcony , take a picture with the statue of Juliet and leave a love note on the gate.

If you don’t want to bother with organizing your day by yourself, you should book a guided tour with transport included.

The best day trip will allow you to visit several places: Verona of course, but also a winery in the wine regions of Amarone and Valpolicella.

Yes, during your tour, you will also have the opportunity to taste some of the best Italian wines!

To book your guided tour to Verona + Amarone winery, simply click on the button below:

The Prosecco region is a wine district in Italy between the towns of Conegliano Veneto and Valdobbiadene .

It’s the only area in the world where the world famous white sparkling wine, Prosecco DOCG , is produced.

Since 2019 this area has been added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites.

If you are looking for things to do in Venice or around the city , the Prosecco region is a great option! In fact, this area can be reached by car from Venice in around one hour.

Here are my favorite things to do in Prosecco wine region:

• Hike or bike along the Via del Prosecco: Many hotels can arrange bike rental
• Visit one of the many towns in the area , for example Cison di Valmarino (nominated one of the most beautiful villages in Italy), or Castelbrando, a fairytale castle up on a hill.
• Do a wine tasting workshop in one of the many wineries in the region
• Have a glass of wine watching the sunset while sitting in the vineyards
• Stop at one of the many restaurants or trattoria in the area and try one of the local specialties

If you have more time, you can combine the Prosecco wine region with the Dolomites and the Braies Lake , which are just a 2-3 hours drive away from here.

You can find more authentic places and hidden gems to discover around the Prosecco Region on Beating Jetlag .

You want to get away from the hustle and Bustle of Venice?

Then, you should head to the Dolomite Mountains , a UNESCO World Heritage site , and a must for nature lovers. These majestic peaks offer spectacular landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities .

In the summer, you can hike or bike on well-marked trails, while in the winter, you can ski or snowboard on world-class slopes.

Don’t miss a visit to the picturesque Lake Misurina or the famous Tre Cime di Lavaredo, 3 distinctive peaks that are one of the Dolomites’ most iconic sights .

Remember to check the weather before you go – it can change quickly in the mountains!

The best Tour to Dolomite Mountains includes Transfer from Venice with return and, of course, beautiful landscapes all along the way.

To book your day trip to the Dolomites, you just need to click on the button below:

How Many Days to Visit Venice?

How much time should you spend in Venice?

This depends on your personal preferences and the pace at which you like to travel. However, a typical recommendation is to plan for a 3 to 4-day trip .

This duration allows you to visit the main attractions like St. Mark’s Square, Doge’s Palace, and the Rialto Bridge.

It also leaves you with enough time to enjoy a gondola ride , visit the islands of Murano and Burano, and even explore a bit off the beaten path!

What are the best things to do in Venice in 1 day?

Here is the perfect itinerary to visit Venice in a day:

• First, go to Saint Mark’s Square
• Visit Saint Mark’s Basilica
• Climb the saint Mark’s campanile (provided you have booked your tickets in advance)
• Visit the doge’s Palace , and cross the Bridge of Sighs
• Optional, if you’re interested in this type of visit: Correr Museum (entrance included with Doge’s Palace ticket)
• Gondola tour on Venice’s Grand Canal
• Pass by the 3 most famous churches: Santa Maria Formosa / Basilica of San Giovanni e Paolo / Church of Santa Maria dei Miracoli
• Go to the rialto Bridge to end the day in style.

For this one-day itinerary in Venice, you should really buy the Venice city pass . It includes skip the line tickets for Saint Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace and a gondola ride.

It’s the best way to save time and be able to visit Venice’s must see attractions in one day!

You need to click on the button below to buy your Venice Pass:

If you’d like to spend a weekend in Venice and have 2 days to visit the city of the Doges, I recommend the following itinerary:

For the first day, you can do the itinerary I mentioned above for 1 day in Venice and visit St. Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace, do a Gondola Tour, go to the Rialto Bridge etc.

• For art lovers, visit the Ca d’Oro
• Rialto Market
• Basilica of Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari
• Scuola Grande di San Roco
• Ca’Rezzonico
• Ponte dell Accademia
• Optional: the Accademia Gallery or Peggy Guggenheim Collection
• Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute
• Attend a concert or opera in Venice.

To easily plan your 2-day itinerary in Venice, you should read my dedicated article: The best 2-day Venice itinerary .

If you have 3 days in Venice , you should do the itineraries I mentioned above for the 2 first days.

Then, for your 3rd day , you should explore the nearby islands of Burano, Murano and Torcello!

You can go there on your own, taking the boat between the islands each time , or opt for a guided tour with transport included from Saint Mark’s Square.

You can choose between a 6-hour tour (Burano + Murano + Torcello) or the 4h tour , only including Burano and Murano.

In order to help you plan your 3-day stay in Venice, I have written a detailed itinerary. Simply click here to read it: How to visit Venice in 3 days?

For 4 days in Venice , simply do the 3 days itinerary I suggested above , and add for the 4th day:

Start your day with a visit to the island of San Giorgio Maggiore .

You can get there on your own by boat or or opt for the guided tour (boat trip + visit to the church and bell tower).

In the afternoon, you have 2 options :

1) You can stroll around Venice , see its many churches or visit the natural history or naval history museums , and of course do a bit of shopping .

2) Go to Lido island and beach for a relaxing afternoon.

Planning to spend 4 days in Venice? In that case, you should read my detailed article: The Perfect itinerary for 4 days in Venice .

Once you’ve explored the city and seen all the best places to visit in Venice , it’s time to explore the surrounding area .

Why not go on a day trip to Verona or discover the Dolomites?

Here is my selection of the best hotels in Venice depending on your budget.

If you already know your travel dates, you should book your hotel: Venice is super touristy and the best deals don’t last long!

So if you don’t want to end up with a very expensive mediocre room, book your hotel now by clicking on the orange links below:

• Generator Venice: Located on Giudecca. Beds in dormitories from €40. Strong points: very clean, comfortable bed, view.
• Il Lato Azzurro: Located on the picturesque island of Sant’Erasmo, a short boat ride from the bustling streets of Venice. Double rooms, beginning at 85€ per night, with breakfast included. What I loved: the peaceful island location, the garden, the bright rooms.
• Casa Sulla Laguna: Located on Murano, a short boat ride of Venice. Double room overlooking the lagoon, from €120. Strong points: the friendliness of the owners, the peace and quiet, and the quick and easy access to Venice.  This is my favourite hotel in Venice for its exceptional value for money!
• San Lio Tourist House: Located in Castelleo district. Modern double room from €150. Strong points: perfect location, super helpful host, near the Rialto bridge.
• Hotel Villa Rosa: Located in the Cannaregio district. Elegantly decorated double room from €190, breakfast included. Strong points: great location, comfortable room, very friendly staff.
• Hotel Moresco: Situated just a short walk from the Grand Canal. This 4* hotel offers spacious and lavishly decorated double rooms, beginning at 330 € per night, with breakfast included. What I loved: the tranquil garden, the enchanting Venetian decor, the hotel’s short distance from key sights. The best hotel in Venice for a luxury stay!

If you’re looking for a luxury hotel to stay in Venice , here’s my selection:

• Radisson Collection Hotel: Located on Cannaregio. Well-decorated, comfortable double room from €520, breakfast included. Benefits: the spa, beautiful interior design, great service.
• Ca’di Dio-Small Luxury Hotel: Located 800 metres from the Doge’s Palace. Elegantly decorated double room from € 640 including breakfast. Strong points: great views, friendly and attentive staff, wonderful breakfast.
• Baglioni Hotel Luna – The leading hotels of the world: Just 50 metres from Piazza San Marco. Magnificent and very spacious double room from €690, breakfast €35. Strong points: exceptional staff, very central location, amazing breakfast.
• The St Regis Venice: Located on the banks of Venice’s Grand Canal. Beautiful, elegantly decorated rooms from €1,500 per night, breakfast €50. Strong points: exceptional services, amazing views, beautiful design.

To help you plan your visits, I have made a tourist map of Venice , with all the best places to visit, must see attractions and activities I talk about in this guide.

You can display the map legend by clicking on the top left button , the one with a small arrow.

Choosing the best time to visit Venice depends on what you want out of your trip.

This city has a unique charm in every season, but each time of the year offers a different experience .

1) Spring (April to June) is often considered one of the best times to visit Venice.

The weather is usually mild and pleasant, making it ideal for walking around and exploring. The city is starting to come alive with tourists, but it’s not as crowded as it gets in the summer.

2) Summer (July to August) is the busiest tourist season.

The city can be quite crowded, and the temperatures can be quite high.

However, you’ll find plenty of outdoor events and festivals to enjoy.

3) Autumn (September to November) is another good time to visit.

The tourist crowds start to thin out, and the weather, while cooler, is still generally good. Autumn also sees the Venice Film Festival taking place.

4) Winter (December to March) is the least crowded time to visit Venice.

The weather can be chilly, and you might experience acqua alta (high water), but you’ll have the city’s beauty almost to yourself.

Plus, if you time your visit right, you can experience the unique spectacle of the Venice Carnival.

If you need help planning your trip to Venice, don’t hesitate to ask me your questions in the comments section below!

Italy travel Guides

• Buy the Lonely Planet Italy guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
• Buy the Rick Steves Italy guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk

Discover all my articles about Italy : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Italy are listed there.

• The 20 Best Things to do in Italy – All the must-see places!
• Cinque Terre: The definitive guide to plan your visit
• Florence: The 27 best things to do and must-see attractions
• Milan: The Top 15 things to do in the city and around
• Pisa: Top 21 must-see attractions + Tips
• Rome: The 25 best things to do and see
• Siena: Top 20 best places to visit
• Turin: The 20 must-see attractions
• Venice: The 31 best things to do (+ Tips)
• 2 days in Florence
• 3 days in Florence
• 4 days in Florence
• 5 days in Florence
• 2 days in Milan
• 3 days in Milan
• 4 days in Milan
• 2 Days in Rome – How to visit Rome in 48h
• 3 Days in Rome – The best itinerary to visit Rome in 72h
• 4 Days in Rome – The best places to visit in 4 days
• 5 Days in Rome – How to spend 5 days in Rome
• 6 Days in Rome – The ultimate Itinerary + Where to stay
• One week in Rome – The perfect 7-day itinerary
• Where to stay in Milan? My guide to the best areas and hotels for a perfect stay
• Where to stay in Rome? – The definitive guide of the best areas!
• Where to stay in Venice? My selection of the best hotels and districts for an epic stay
• Omnia Card: The definitive guide
• Colosseum: The 7 best skip the line tickets
• Trevi Fountain: History, Secrets and Facts
• Rome’s Hidden Gems : The Definitive Guide with 17 secret spots!
• The 20 Best museums in Rome – With all my best tips!
• Rome in May: The definitive guide to plan your visit: weather, things to do, itineraries and more!
• Rome in June: Guide + All my best tips

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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The Best Things to do in Venice: 28 Attractions in the City of Canals

Looking for the best things to do in Venice? Don’t miss this step-by-step guide. 

The capital of the Veneto Region in Northern Italy, in the past Venice was a significant trading and military centre, giving it a rich history, an extensive art collection and those beautiful waterways. 

We’ve all heard the (justified) concerns about over tourism and yes, it really is sinking but you know what? Venice is captivating nonetheless. 

Venice might not be perfect but it is a charming destination that can be a pleasure to explore. I say can be – because with talk of hour-long traffic jams to walk less than a kilometre – and impossible-to-get-tickets for some of the main attractions, you’re best off avoiding high season if you can. 

The city is at its absolute busiest between the months of June and August – skip these months and you increase your chances of actually doing this beautiful city justice – and lessening the burden of its popularity at the same time. 

Venice is one of the most popular places to visit in Italy and has many wonderful things to see and do. If you’ve been planning a trip to Italy but are not quite sure what to do in Venice, then keep reading to discover some of the best sites and attractions in the city. 

Tip: Planning on staying in Venice for a few days? Check out the Hotel Carlton on the Grand Canal .

Top 5 Things To Do in Venice

Visit st mark’s square .

St Mark’s Square, also known as Piazza San Marco, is the heart of Venice. The square is home to iconic Italian landmarks like the St Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace and the St Mark’s Campanile. 

The square sits on the Grand Canal and extends into an area known as the Piazzetta along the San Marco Basin. The two areas form the social, religious and political centre of Venice. 

It has always played an essential part in Venice’s history, and surrounding it are a few elaborately decorated buildings with arched walkways. If you’re visiting Venice for the first time, this is a great place to start exploring the city. 

It’s the perfect place for people-watching, grabbing a bite to eat and taking in the architectural wonders of Venice. A visit to St Mark’s Square is one of the most popular things to do in Venice.

Enjoy the Cuisine

Venice is well-known throughout Italy for having some of the county’s best (and most distinctive) cuisine. Some of that is down to its location – the Venice Lagoon is a source of high-quality local fish caught daily and has shaped the city’s culinary scene throughout the centuries. 

Looking for an iconic Venetian dish to try? Opt for Baccala Mantecato – a local delicacy made from salted cod, garlic, parsley, potatoes and cream and blended together to create a mousse that’s usually eaten with crostini bread. 

Some other delicacies found in Venetian cuisine include goose and lobster. The Veneto Region also has some of the best vineyards in Italy and is famous for producing Prosecco (bottoms up!). 

Cruise Down the Grand Canal

Can you really say that you’ve been to Venice without riding down the Grand Canal? Once the main route in and out of Venice, the Grand Canal teemed with merchant ships. Today it remains a vital waterway that runs through the centre of Venice. 

Cruising down the Grand Canal is one of the best things to do in Venice. Hop on a Vaporetto (a water bus) or a gondola ride , sail down this iconic canal and discover some of Venice’s iconic vistas. 

Stroll Around Cannareggio

Cannareggio is the northernmost district in Venice, famous for being home to the Jewish Ghetto. While it has a somewhat troubled past, it has transformed itself into one of the liveliest areas in Venice – with cool wine bars, cafes and restaurants frequented by locals and tourists alike. 

You can discover the Jewish Museum here and a few synagogues open to the public. Cannareggio also has a number of great restaurants and shops. It’s especially great if you’re looking for handcrafted and vintage goods, 

This district is also home to the beautiful Ca’ d’Oro or Palazzo Santa Sofia on the Grand Canal. The palace is one of the best surviving examples of Venetian Gothic architecture and still features many of the palace’s original features. 

The Ca’d’Oro is now a museum that displays a large collection of Renaissance art. 

Take a Day Trip to Burano 

If you think Venice is picturesque… wait until you take a trip to Burano . 

Famed for its rainbow-coloured houses, Burano is the perfect day trip from the city. 

The island is located at the northern end of the Venice Lagoon – a short 40 minute vaporetto ride from central Venice. 

It is an old fishing village with traditions that date back to Roman times. The island is also famous for making lace and has a museum dedicated to this traditional art in its town square. 

Burano is also well known for its fish dishes. Order the Risotto de Go, a creamy rice dish made with a local fish if you find yourself on the island. If you’re not a fan of fish, Burano has several great pizzerias and gelato shops. 

There are also a few stands where you can buy souvenirs for a much better price than in central Venice. All in all, Burano is a great place to escape from the bustling streets of the mainland.

Read Next: Time to Discover… Burano

Brilliant Things to See & Do in Venice During the Day 

Take a trip to st mark’s basilica.

The St Mark’s Basilica, also known as Basilica San Marco, is one of Italy’s most instantly recognisable sights. The Basilica is an absolute must-see in Venice. 

The Basilica is on the eastern end of St Mark’s Square. It is a magnificent piece of architecture that has stood the test of time since its construction in 1094. 

It remains one of the most important religious buildings in Italy and is one of the best examples of Byzantine architecture. Every aspect of the church is intricate and beautiful, from the sculptures and artwork to the dome ceiling. 

St Mark’s Basilica is easily accessible from the Grand Canal and should be on your list of places to see as it is one of the top things to do in Venice.

Be warned that as this is one of the most popular Venice landmarks, you will need to book tickets in advance. You can either book tickets direct or take a guided tour of the Basilica and the Doge’s Palace. 

Admire the Campanile di San Marco 

The impressive Campanile di San Marco is one building that you should not miss visiting. It is the tallest building in Venice and is a staggering 98.6 metres (323 feet) tall. 

Initially built in the 9th century, the tower later collapsed in 1902 and construction of the current building ended in 1912. The recent Campanile di San Marco has stood the test of time and has endured fires, earthquakes and even lightning strikes. 

It is a true Venetian gem and is also the perfect place to admire Venice in its entirety from St Mark’s Square, where it’s located. 

Go Shopping In One Of the Rialtos 

Venice is famous for being an important trading destination during the Italian Renaissance . To get a glimpse of Venice’s trading past, head over to one of the Rialto markets. You’ll find everything from the freshest produce to Italian leather goods like shoes and handbags. 

Check Out the Horological Clock (St Mark’s Clock)

St Mark’s Clock, also known as the Torre dell Orologio, sits inside the grand Clock Tower in St Mark’s Square. It is an impressive Renaissance building on the north side of the square and contains the clock and two buildings on its lower side. 

Built in the late 14th century, the tower overlooks the waters of the Venice lagoon. It serves as a symbol of the wealth and glory of the Venetian empire. 

St Mark’s Clock Tower was one of the first large public astronomical clocks to be built in Europe. Its two lower floors make a large archway that extends into the main street known as the Merceria. 

The Merceria links St Mark’s Square, Venice’s religious and political centre, with the Rialto – its commercial centre. St Mark’s Clock is undoubtedly one of the best sights to see in Venice.

Step Inside Doge’s Palace 

Doge’s Palace is a true Venice tourist attraction, and while you’re in St Mark’s Square, don’t forget to check it out. It is a true masterpiece of Gothic architecture made up of different layers of building elements. 

The Palace overlooks the Grand Canal, and its facade features stunning arches made from white stone with diamond patterns on the walls. While the outside is pretty spectacular, the interior of the Doge’s Palace will certainly take your breath away. 

It features highly decorated rooms and awe-inspiring ceilings with intricate artwork, gold framework, and beautiful furniture. 

A tour of the Doge’s Palace is the best way to explore both its interior and exterior and appreciate the details of this important piece of Venetian history. 

Take A Gondola Ride 

For centuries the Gondola has played an important part in transporting people up and down the Grand Canal and other waterways in Venice. While it may be pricier than a Vaporetto, it’s worth it. 

Gondolas are perfectly suited for the Venice lagoon and are a good way to see some of Venice’s historical sights without any obstructions. 

Escape To Lido Island

If you’re looking to escape the heaps of tourists that flock to central Venice, then Lido Island is the place to go. Lido ( Lido di Venezia ) is an 11-kilometre (7-mile) barrier island that separates the Venice Lagoon and the Adriatic Sea . 

It is home to around 20 000 people and has loads of residential areas, shops, restaurants and hotels. It has a more laid back vibe, in contrast to the busy streets and waterways around the Grand Canal. 

Lido has a long stretch of beautiful beach where you can lay around and soak up the wonderful Italian sun. 

Check Out the Peggy Guggenheim Collection 

A visit to the Peggy Guggenheim Collection is one of the most interesting things to do in Venice. If you’re an art lover, this contemporary art museum on the Grand Canal might be of particular interest to you. 

This impressive art display is the private collection of expatriate American art collector Peggy Guggenheim. Her collection features the work of the most influential European and American artists of the 20th century. 

The collection sits in the Palazzo Venier dei Leoni , the home of Peggy Guggenheim and features artwork and sculptures. You can also learn more about Peggy herself and even pay respects to her in the sculpture garden.

Enjoy Views of Venice From the Accademia Bridge (Ponte dell’Accademia) 

For some truly spectacular views of Venice, make your way over to the Accademia Bridge. While it may not be as popular as other Venice bridges like the Bridge of Sighs or the Rialto Bridge, it’s still pretty special. 

It crosses the Grand Canal at its lower southern end and links the San Marco District with the Accademia Galleria. It is one of four bridges that span across the Grand Canal in Venice. 

It may look like a simple wooden bridge, but it is one of the best places to see the Grand Canal in its entirety. There’s also a Vaporetto stop right next to the bridge to help you get to other parts of the city. 

Cross the Bridge of Sighs 

Although relatively small compared to other bridges in Venice, the Bridge of Sighs is an important historical landmark. It is one of the top Venice attractions, and thousands of people visit it each year. 

It is a true architectural gem made from white limestone, with windows and stone bars. It passes over the Rio di Palazzo and connects the Prigioni Nuove (New Prison) to the Doge’s Palace. 

According to legend, as criminals were taken from the palace to the New Prison, they would catch one last glimpse of Venice and sigh before receiving their final punishment. 

Explore the Jewish Ghetto (Ghetto Ebraico di Venezia) 

The Jewish Ghetto is one of the most interesting places to visit in Venice. This neighbourhood is one of the oldest in the world, dating back to 1516. Shakespeare even mentioned it in his book The Merchant of Venice . 

The Ghetto sits in the northwestern area of Venice known as Cannaregio. As you wander around, you’ll gain some valuable insight into this area’s complicated past. You’ll be able to discover how people once lived throughout the ages and how they live today. 

You’ll find a few synagogues and the Jewish Museum, which are all open to the public within the area. 

Visit the Murano Glass Museum 

One of the things that the Venetians are best known for is their impressive glasswork. As a result, Venice became the leading producer of glass in Europe in the Middle Ages and exported it all over the continent. 

The island of Murano lies 1.5km (1 mile) north of Venice and is renowned for its long tradition of glassmaking. To discover the artistry that the island is famous for, pay a visit to the Murano Glass Museum . 

You’ll get the opportunity to learn about the history of glass, notably the local Murano Glass. Murano Glass is a unique decorative glass made from several different techniques that date back over 1000 years. 

There’s a small factory on-site where you can see this intricate glass made and even purchase souvenirs. The Murano Glass Museum is one of the top things to see in Venice.

Cross the Rialto Bridge (Ponte di Rialto) 

The Rialto Bridge is the oldest of four bridges that span across the Grand Canal and is one of the most recognisable landmarks in Venice. 

Centuries ago, crossing the Grand Canal was only possible through the Rialto Bridge. Initially, it was a wooden bridge, but it was rebuilt using stone after its collapse in 1524. It is an architectural and engineering achievement of the Renaissance. 

The bridge features one large archway with several smaller arches. Its design is simple but is beautiful and perfectly frames the Grand Canal. The Rialto Bridge is certainly one of the top sights in Venice. 

Grab a Takeout Pasta at Dal Moro’s

Want to dine on the best pasta in the city? No, you don’t need to head to a fancy restaurant – you need to visit Dal Moro’s Fresh Pasta to Go. Nope, I’m not kidding. 

This tiny hole-in-the-wall pasta joint has made quite a name for itself and serves up some of the tastiest noodles in the city. All you need to do is pick which pasta you fancy and choose your sauce – the cacio e pepe is sublime. Bellissimo.

Top Tip: Save the map offline – you’ll need to navigate a maze of streets to find Dal Moro’s. Once you see a queue you’ll know you’re there.

Step Inside the Gallery Accademia (Gallerie dell’Accademia)

Sitting opposite the Accademia Bridge on the Grand Canal lies the incredible Gallery Accademia. It houses a marvellous collection of pre-19th century art, including pieces from Bellini, Tintoretto and Veronese. 

If you’re a fan of Renaissance art, this gallery is the place for you. The gallery has an expansive collection of Venetian masterpieces. One of its notable pieces is the Vitruvian Man by Da Vinci. 

Browse the Libreria Acqua Alta

I love a weird bookshop. And the Libreria Acqua Alta fits the bill. 

This spot is full to the brim with books old and new(ish), with unique displays – like a book-filled boat – and plenty of resident cats perched atop the displays to help you find the purr-fect novel.

Cool Things to See & Do in Venice at Night

Hop on a vaporetto at sunset.

A gondola ride at sunset is one of the coolest things you can do in Venice. Gondolas can be pretty expensive, so if you’re looking for a cheaper way to discover Venice’s waterways while watching the sunset over the city, why not hop on a Vaporetto? 

A Vaporetto is a Venetian public waterbus. There are about 19 scheduled lines that service the districts in Venice and the surrounding islands. 

Discovering Venice from the water at sunset is a pretty unforgettable experience, so board a Vaporetto and sail down the Grand Canal. 

Enjoy a Drink at the Stappo Wine Bar

The Stappo Wine Bar and Kitchen is in the heart of Venice and is just a five-minute walk away from the Rialto. 

It serves a fantastic variety of Italian dishes paired with sublime natural wines. Stappo promotes sustainability and only uses local ingredients. It has an intimate internal courtyard where you can sit and enjoy your meal or drink. 

Hang Out at the Venice Jazz Club 

If you’re looking for one of the coolest places in Venice, then don’t forget to check out the Venice Jazz Club. Located in the Dorsoduro area, the jazz club will take you away from the more touristy neighbourhoods of San Marco and San Polo. 

Whether you’re a jazz fan or not, the Venice Jazz Club is the perfect place to visit at night. You can sit back and listen to some great music in a cosy venue. 

Sip Wine at Vino Vero 

Vino Vero is another wine bar located in Canareggio. It’s a local wine bar and shop with a great selection of natural wines paired with local meals like Cicchetti.  

It’s an ideal place to meet up with friends and enjoy an evening out in Venice and is open until late.  

Down Aperol Spritz’s at All’Arco 

Situated just a few minutes away from St Mark’s Basilica is the All’Arco Bar. For a true taste of Venetian hospitality, good wine and a warm atmosphere, be sure to check out All’Arco. 

They have a great selection of Cicchetti, which are snacks made from cold meats and cheese served on crostini. 

Grab a Drink at the Skyline Rooftop Bar

For incredible views of Venice in the evening, head over to the Skyline Rooftop Bar at the Hilton Molino Stucky Hotel. 

You can enjoy one of their signature cocktails while taking in the panoramic views of Venice in a relaxed setting. The bar is also open until late, so you can sit back and relax. 

Things to do in Venice: Practical Tips for Your Trip

Before you start planning your trip to Italy, here are a few practical tips that can help make the planning process easier. 

What to Do in Venice: Frequently Asked Questions

You should not miss out on a gondola or Vaporetto ride down the Grand Canal, especially at sunset. You should also not miss St Mark’s Square, where you’ll find some iconic landmarks such as the Basilica and Doge’s Palace.

Absolutely. Venice may have many sights to discover, but they can easily be seen on guided tours in three days. For more information, check out this 10 Day Italian Itinerary . It provides tips for how to spend the first two days in Venice, to which you can add an extra day.

Ideally, you can spend two to three days in Venice, as it will give you enough time to discover most of its popular sights.

The best time to visit Venice is from September to November when the huge crowds of tourists have left the city. It’s also much cooler, and hotel rates are reasonable.

Where Should I Stay in Venice? 

Hotel casanova.

Hotel Casanova is just a few metres away from St Mark’s Square. It is set in an 18th Century building in the heart of Venice and is near to attractions such as Doge’s Palace and the St Mark’s Basilica. It features simple but ornate Venetian architecture and style.

Check Rates and Availability for Hotel Casanova on Booking.com 

Bauer Palazzo 

The Bauer Palazzo is a two-minute walk from St Mark’s Square and where you should stay if you are after some luxury. It has spacious and elegantly decorated rooms.

Check Rates and Availability for Bauer Palazzo on Booking.com

Recommended Tours in Venice to See Venice’s Landmarks 

• Venice: Murano, Burano and Torcello Islands Full-Day Trip
• Doge’s Palace and St Mark’s Basilica Tour  

Things to do in Venice: Map

Looking For More Italy Guides?

• 10 Days in Italy – The Perfect Itinerary 
• Italy Travel Guide and Tips 
• Best Places to Go in Italy
• The Most Famous Bridges in Venice
• Discover Colourful Burano

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I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

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Don't get vexed in Venice: 25 things to know before you go

Jun 22, 2023 • 17 min read

Here's how to know you're buying the genuine article in Venice © Oleg Breslavtsev / Getty Images

It’s one of the most familiar destinations on the planet, yet also one of the most alien. Venice is a constant conundrum: how do I see the best of it? How do I avoid destroying it? Is it possible to have a local experience? What do I need to know before traveling to Venice?

I’ve lived in Venice since 2020 and these are questions I still ask myself. This is a fiercely fragile city facing unique challenges, a place where tourism is largely destructive and Venetians respond by getting ever more insular. Traveling here is a delicate balance between sightseeing and preserving; enjoying and respecting; spending your money responsibly but not feeling like your wallet’s been emptied.

It also means sacrificing some things you might do without a thought in other places – silly things, like impromptu picnics or dawdling in the street to take photos. Some challenges are more major – this is intrinsically not an accessible city, and anyone with mobility issues will struggle.

The good news: the rewards are huge. Spend enough time here to really scratch the surface and you’ll get privileged access to a world that few people have visited – despite this being one of the world’s most visited cities. People often ask me how best to see the city; as well as my favorite things to do , here are my dos and don’ts when visiting Venice.

1. Pick the right route from the airport

One floating city, three ways to get in from the airport. The chi-chiest way is by water taxi, which will whisk you from the airport’s pontoon area straight to your hotel (or as near as it can get, depending on the canals). However, it’s pricey – think €130 and up.

Then there’s the Alilaguna ferry, which has various routes and stops around the city center – at €16, it’s much cheaper and the views are the same. Finally, you can get a coach or bus to Piazzale Roma, the road terminus on the edge of the city (€10). From there, walk or take a vaporetto (€9.50).

2. Know your boats…

You’re going to be taking a lot of boats in Venice – here’s how to know which one to take. From the airport, if you want to arrive by water, take the Alilaguna ferry – a private company that has different routes and stops around the city. Alilaguna also has a couple of tourist lines out to the islands.

Your main routes, however, will be with the public transport company ACTV . This runs the vaporetti – waterbuses – in and around town. If you’ll be using them a lot, it’s worth getting a timed pass rather than paying by the ride.

There are also water taxis – slinky private rides that whisk you around like any other taxi, only for about 10 times the price of a car. And of course, there are gondolas, for those romantic rides along the water. If a gondola doesn’t feel right, you can get a similar experience in a traghetto – an oversized gondola that’s used as a public transport option to cross the Grand Canal at regular points. This costs just €2, as opposed to €80 for a gondola (rising to €90 from November 2023).

3. …But don’t live your life through the vaporetto map

A prime mistake visitors make (and I should know – I did this even when I first moved here) is seeing Venice through its vaporetto map, and calculating the nearest stop to places you’re going. It’s understandable – this is famously a city to get lost in – but unnecessary.

Often, it’s quicker and cheaper to walk, since the vaporetti are so expensive. For instance, you can walk to most parts of San Polo or the Zattere in 15 minutes from the station – about half the time it’d take in a vaporetto – and Piazza San Marco to Rialto is under 10 minutes on foot. People often ask, “How can I see Venice like a local?” Walking more is the easiest (and cheapest) way.

4. Take your time

Plenty of people don’t like Venice, and they tend to have something in common: they didn’t stay long. Pop in on a day trip and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the crowds ticking off the main sights alongside you, as well as the heat and the myriad alleyways. Stay longer, and a different side of the city will open up.

That’s the same for any destination, of course, but it’s more extreme in Venice, partly because of the overcrowding and partly because there are just two main sights that a lot of people come for, Piazza San Marco and the Rialto Bridge. I always say a week is the best way to explore the city, and possibly add in a day trip further afield , but if time is tight, five days should be enough to get a good idea of the city and the islands . In three days, you can get a taster of the main sights and islands, though it’s unlikely that you’ll "get" Venice as a place, or an atmosphere.

5. Plan your journeys

Venice is no ordinary city, and that goes for public transport, too. If you’re used to round-the-clock services, be aware that some vaporetto lines (including to the hospital) shut down entirely before 9pm, and others run a restricted service. If you’re going out for dinner and need to get the vaporetto back, make sure you time it right, or you may have a long wait. Download the CheBateo?  app for timetables and journey planning – meaning you know whether to make a run for it or stay for another drink.

6. Don’t drive to Venice

You know, of course, that there are no cars in Venice. But there is a popular parking lot at Piazzale Roma, the road terminus for the city, located on the outskirts of Santa Croce. Don’t bother trying to get there – it’ll likely be full, and at peak times you could spend upwards of an hour navigating the one-way system to turn back. If you really want to park near the city center, fork off right to Tronchetto before Piazzale Roma, where there’s a vast car park.

Better still, park near the train station at Mestre , on the mainland, and take a 10-minute train to Venice – or drop the rental car off at Marco Polo Airport and take the Alilaguna ferry into town. Wherever you park, don’t leave valuables in your car – and certainly leave nothing visible inside.

7. Check the tide

Until 2020, having an app on your phone that checked the tide level was an essential Venice download – but since the MOSE flood barriers came into action during the pandemic, it’s highly unlikely the city will see regular flooding as it once did. However, some parts of Venice – St Mark’s Square and the area around the Rialto market , for starters – sit below the level for the barriers and can still get wet in higher than normal tides.

It’s not a big deal – you can always get around, it lasts under an hour, and for tourists, it’s more beautiful than annoying – but if you want to check levels before heading over to those areas, download the High Tide Venice app. If you’re traveling in January or February, low tides might be more of an issue – those photos that get published of muddy canals at the start of the year are a regular event but, again, it’s more of a bummer for your photos than a real problem.

8. Pack a bathing suit

Is it summer? Your dreamy trip to the floating city is going to feel like you're in a furnace. From roughly June to September, Venice is a hot, sticky, humid mess – and combine that with half the planet trying to crowd into the same place, and it becomes one big outdoor steam room. Pack a bathing suit, and whenever it gets too much, hop on a vaporetto to the Lido , where you’ll find mile upon mile of soft, clean, sandy beach. Pay for a sunlounger at a beach club or head to the free public beach at the northern end.

9. Accessible Venice

For obvious reasons, Venice isn’t the most accessible city, but don’t assume that it’s a no-go if you have mobility issues. The bridges along the Riva degli Schiavoni – the main waterfront leading off from Piazza San Marco – have ramps, and the same goes for the Zattere waterfront, which also enjoys spectacular views.

You can reach many, if not most, of the main sights on a vaporetto – wheelchair users pay the same as locals for a ticket, just €1.50, with their companion traveling for free. The city authorities have a list of suggested itineraries for wheelchair users. None of this is to say it’s easy – it isn’t. However, it’s worth it.

10. Dress right

You’re on vacation, as are 90% of the people around you – so we’re not going to tell you to try and pass as a local. Do you need to dress up in Venice? No – Venetians are actually pretty dressed down unless they’re going to a fancy restaurant. However, there are practical clothing rules to know about.

Avoid flip-flops – you’re going to do a lot of walking in this city, and the paving stones are hard on the feet and can also get slippery. If you’ll be going into churches, you’ll need shoulders and knees covered – so keep a wrap or shirt in your bag to sling on. Don’t wear swimming gear in the city – you can be fined for doing so. The most important accessory of all? Insect repellent.

11. Walk on the right

This one’s simple. This may be a pedestrianized city but Venice has more foot traffic than most places have cars, so there are unwritten rules. Walk on the right, overtake on the left, try not to grind to a halt in the middle of the narrow streets, and never – never – sit down on the pavement (not least because you can be fined – see below). Think of these as real roads and you’ll be fine.

12. Don’t get fined

What is Venice like? For starters, it’s not a theme park, as many tourists seem to think it is. Like other major Italian cities, Venice has fines for bad behavior – but here, things that might be acceptable anywhere else could land you with a hefty bill. Swimming in the canals and sitting on the pavements to have an impromptu picnic can land you triple-figure fines, for example; walking around in swimwear, feeding the birds and even pushing a bicycle (not even riding it) also bring penalties.

Check out the list of forbidden behavior on the city council’s website and remember, some of the actions may seem silly or petty – but this incredibly fragile city can have up to 250,000 visitors a day, and if they all sat down for a picnic, it would have serious consequences. Don’t be part of the problem.

13. Make sure it really is an "artisan" product

So you want to buy something locally made to take home with you, and you’re confronted by shop after shop with wonderful-looking masks, stationery and what looks like Murano glass – how do you know what’s real and what’s fake? The first clue is the price – if it’s on the cheaper side of what you’ve seen, it’s likely made in a factory.

The next is what’s in the shop around it – real artisans specialize in just one thing. That could be a material (a leather worker might have bags and books) or an item (like masks) but there will be a congruence to every item in the store. Finally, ask – almost always, artisans run their own shops, and the stores usually double as their workshops. Most will be delighted to tell you about their craft, and even show you where the magic happens.

14. Book in advance

The Palazzo Ducale . The Peggy Guggenheim Collection . That restaurant George Clooney goes to. If you’re ticking off the main sights, be aware that potentially hundreds of thousands of others will be doing the same – on the same day. So don’t spend hours of your vacation lining up for tickets, or hoping the restaurant has a no-show – book in advance.

15. Keep your eats cheap

Venice is notoriously expensive, so it’s excellent news that this is the home of cheap bar snacks: cicchetti , designed as grab-and-go eats for on-the-job gondoliers and other workers, but varied enough to make up a full meal at a reasonable price. Swill them down with an ombra (see below), and take a reusable water bottle to fill up at the many drinking fountains around the city. See? There’s no excuse to have a (illegal, fineable) picnic.

16. Get a shade, not a spritz

Everyone drinks a spritz (usually an Aperol spritz) when they come to Venice, but the real drink here is an ombra : a small glass of wine, perfectly proportioned to go with cicchetti bar snacks and named after the Italian for “shadow” – because wine sellers used to stand in the shade beneath Piazza San Marco’s Campanile (belltower) . An ombra is much cheaper than a spritz – if you’re lucky, you can find them for €1-3. If you must have a spritz, get one made with Select, which is made locally, rather than Aperol.

17. Food rules

This being Italy, there are strict rules when it comes to food and drink. First, there are the national ones: no cappuccino after 11am, and certainly not at the end of a meal; expect your “side” to come after your main; don’t put cheese on fish pasta. But then there are Venice-specific ones. This isn’t traditionally a pizza or pasta place – polenta is a more traditional food base, followed by rice.

Of course, everywhere does pasta now so there’s nothing to stop you from trying it, but the more traditional the dish you pick, the better it’ll be. Another trope with some truth to it is to never order a pizza in Venice – it’s true they’re not exactly Naples or Rome quality, but there are some good pizzerias these days, like Oke on the Zattere and the two Muro outlets in San Polo.

18. Stand up at the bar

This is another Italy-wide rule but it comes into sharper relief in Venice: drink your coffee or eat your croissant at the bar to avoid paying a seating supplement. If you’re happy to stand, you can get a drink at fancy Piazza San Marco cafes like Florian or Quadri for a few euros – while those sitting outside are paying double figures, and that’s before the additional fee if an orchestra is playing in the square.

19. Watch your step on the vaporetto

There are strict unwritten rules on a vaporetto – unfortunately, many tourists aren’t aware of them, provoking residents’ wrath. Here’s how to avoid getting huffed at: first, let people off before you get on. Once you’re on, stash your luggage – on the larger ferries like numbers 1 and 2, you should leave them up front behind the captain’s cabin, whereas on the smaller ones, you should leave them at the bottom of the stairs that lead to the seating area. (Speaking of which, many people sit in this spot, but if you do, you’re liable to be kicked out when those with luggage board.) And watch out for pickpockets, both onboard and on the pontoons, who are sadly on the increase with little being done about the issue.

20. Respect the priority lines for residents

Several vaporetto stops – including at Piazzale Roma, Ferrovia (the train station) and Rialto – have separate turnstiles marked in pink as “priorità” (priority) and “Venezia Unica” for residents. Don’t bother trying your ticket at them – they won’t work. Once you’re on the pontoon, don’t try to dodge over to their side, either. Most of those major stops have staff positioned or chains over the residents’ side, if you end up too close to the water it can be dangerous… and it’s plain old disrespectful to those who have to live here and deal with the crowds on a daily basis. Let them at least board the boat first.

21. Glove up in the supermarket

This rule goes for all Italy, not just Venice – when you’re in the fruit and veg section of the supermarket, make sure you wear one of the disposable gloves on offer before you touch any fruit. And don’t forget to weigh it yourself – every item has a number that you should enter on the scales.

22. Buy from local vendors

What’s better than picking your own fruit and veg in the supermarket? Going to a fruttivendolo – an independent greengrocer. These guys stock not only your generic bananas and potatoes, but plenty of locally grown fruit and veg – much of it grown on Sant’Erasmo island in the lagoon, and some of which you’ll never have seen before. Even better, it means you’re supporting a local business. There’s one on a boat at Campo San Barnaba and another at the end of Via Garibaldi if you want a fruity photo op.

23. Try first aid before rushing to the hospital

Sprain an ankle as you sprint across a bridge? Feeling faint and overwhelmed by all the art? Venice has one hospital, helpfully at the vaporetto stop called Ospedale, but you don’t have to go to the ER for help. There are two first aid centers (“Punto di Primo Intervento”), one in Piazza San Marco and one at Piazzale Roma. They’re staffed by doctors, who can tell you if you need to go to the hospital, but who can also save you the wait if they can deal with it themselves. In an emergency, call 118.

24. Hold on to your valuables

Venice has always been, and still is, incredibly safe compared to other tourist cities, but incidents have been on the rise for the past few years. Beware of pickpockets at the main sights, on the main route between the train station, Rialto and Piazza San Marco , on the vaporetto pontoons (especially at the station) and on the boats themselves. If you’ve parked to visit the city, don’t leave anything in the car.

Avoid any interaction with anyone inviting you to play a game – you might see people asking you to bet money on a game of (empty) boxes on the major bridges – or offering you something for "free". And pay special attention to the biggest criminals of all: seagulls, which will swoop in and nick any food you’re carrying unsealed. They can even dive in for it when you’re eating outside – so be on permanent alert.

25. Know about tourist prices

"Tourist prices" are definitely a thing in Venice – often someone speaking the local dialect will not be paying the same as you for that coffee, or won’t get charged a seating fee – but think of it as a locals’ discount off the official prices rather than inflated amounts for tourists.

That’s not worth getting bothered about; what is crucial, though, is to not get ripped off. Always check the menu before ordering, ask the price of daily specials, and watch out for items priced by weight, like fish (these are often given a very cheap-looking price per 100g, or “all’etto”, on the menu – if the price looks too good to be true, it is).

If you’re at a bar or café, ask to see the menu for prices at the table, rather than at the bar. And remember that although the odd horror story does go viral, they do so because they are extremely rare. If something’s up with the bill, query it with the staff – and if they’re not playing ball, ask them to call the carabinieri (police), or call them yourself on 112.

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15 things you must do in Venice, Italy

Posted: September 26, 2023 | Last updated: September 26, 2023

Even if you've never been to Venice, you know what it looks like. Venetian buildings lined across canals, open courtyards dotted with plants, exotic bridges soft with seaweed, and buzzing with tourists. The mere mention of Venice conjures a whirlpool of images. 

So why not dive in? Visit the historic city and you can amble around sun-speckled canals, mysterious alleyways, unmissable museums, and romantic restaurants. There are a million things to do in Venice, but there are only 15 things you can't go without. 

Grand Canal

The city's beating heart and romantic soul, there's no shortage of things to do here. Take a water taxi or a gondola ride. Admire the view from a bridge or a nearby restaurant. Or circle back at night when the crowds are thin, the streets are quiet and the lights flicker across the canal, beckoning you to take a closer look. 

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St. Mark's Square

St. Mark's Square is kind of like Times Square without the streakers. Or the homeless people, trash cans, or New Yorkers. OK, so it's not exactly like Times Square, but it is nicknamed "the Times Square of Venice," because it's the central spot for tourists and is surrounded by history. Thankfully, this slice of history is lined with columns and museums, and if you arrive early enough, you can have the place to yourself. 

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Caffe Florian

While you're in St. Mark's Square, you'll want to visit Caffe Florian. This iconic Venetian restaurant was once a watering hole for Proust, Dickens, and Casanova, and the decor hasn't changed much over the years. My advice: enjoy an espresso in the same seat Dickens once enjoyed a beer. 

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Teatro La Fenice

The name Teatro La Fenice, a landmark opera house, means "The Phoenix"--a nod to the fact that it's risen from the ashes not once, but three times, most recently after two arsonists burned it down in 1996. But it's been renovated and restored back to its former glory, complete with rows of balconies and red-velvet chairs. 

Peggy Guggenheim Collection

This private collection was once the home of Peggy Guggenheim, who played a big role in the careers of Jackson Pollock, Max Ernst, and Alberto Giacometti. Now, you'll find the walls lined with Picasso, Dali, Mondrian, and Malevich. Plus, Joseph Cornell! 

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Lido Island

After wandering museums and alleyways, you'll want to lie down on the serene sands of Lido. A 15-minute Vaporetto ride from St. Mark's Square, the island offers beaches that stretch as far as the eye can see, dotted with kids, teens, families, and leather-skin grandpas. Two hours on the beach and you'll have a pretty great tan, too. 

Venice Film Festival

Speaking of the Lido, when the Venice Film Festival hits town every September, there's no better place to be. Pro tip: get to screenings early. Even if you have a pass, you'll need to be there a couple of hours before the film starts. 

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Murano Glass Museum

While your hopping from island to island, make time for a trip to Murano and admire the glass-making artistry. The products are held on display at the Murano glass museum, where you're gonna want to keep an eye on your pocketbook. Not because of pickpockets, which are a problem in Venice. But because these dreamy works of art are going to inspire you to stop by the gift shop on your way out, or at a glass factory nearby. 

Osteria Alla Frasca

For a true Venetian dinner, Osteria Alla Frasca is one of the most authentic spots in town. You come here, of course, for the delightful seafood pasta, but you're really here to eat like the locals, with the locals. It's an adventure just trying to find this small, family-owned gem, though once seated in its courtyard, you won't want to leave. 

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Church of San Giorgio Maggiore

Everyone needs a picture of themselves in Venice. Whether it's for Instagram, Twitter, or Tinder, you can't go wrong with the tower of San Giorgio, which boasts panoramic views of Venice from 350-feet up. 

Rialto Bridge

Another candidate for best-selfie: Rialto Bridge has the best view of the Grand Canal, though best not to go midday. Like every main attraction in Venice, make plans to go in the morning or at night. 

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Burano Island

Burano is a beautiful island 40-minutes away from Venice, but what truly sets this destination apart are the colorful buildings sprinkled around the city. The fisherman painted each house a different color so they knew whose house was whose, which makes it look like a paint sampler come to life. Every street is a rainbow of discovery. 

Carnevale Festival

Every February, the city hosts a carnival where three million people dress up in costumes and dance until dawn. It's the closest thing to Fellini-esque Venice has to offer. 

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Hotel Locanda

Known as the spot where Ernest Hemingway wrote Across the River , the Hotel Locanda is nicely situated just outside of town, and it's $75 a night. Not bad for a place with so much history...and such great croissants! 

Venice is a crazy, decadent maze of streets--and each one leads to a new, exciting place. You're going to get lost. Your map is going to be off. The best thing to do is walk around, lose the schedule, and discover a new restaurant, cafe, canal, or church. Once you've seen the tourist spots, wander into the heart of Venice, glide across a sun-soaked street, dance into a wine-soaked night, share a bottle with a loved one or a spritz with a stranger. There are a million things to do in Venice, but getting lost is mio preferito . 

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14 Best Places to Visit in Venice Italy (A First Timer’s Guide)

By: Author Charles

Posted on May 15, 2023

Venice, Italy. One of the most well-known cities in the world and one that is full of things to do and sites to see.

While you may come across articles talking about how the city is overrun by tourists and can be left off an Italy itinerary, I would have to disagree. If you are heading to Italy and have the chance to visit this one of kind place, I say go for it!

This guide will go over the best places to visit in Venice Italy, talk about how to avoid the crowds, and provide you with some helpful info to make your trip as memorable as possible.

*  Affiliate Disclosure : This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you make a purchase through the links provided, at no additional cost to you. Thanks for supporting the work I put into TripTins!

1) 14 Best Places to Visit in Venice

I will first go over some of the best places to visit in Venice followed by all logistical info later on in the guide. The following attractions can be seen over a couple of days but feel free to pick and choose based on preference and amount of time you have in the city.

Helpful Tip: be sure to purchase tickets in advance for the top attractions in the city. This will save you valuable time during a visit as you won’t need to spend your day just waiting in lines. Also, always check the latest opening hours prior to heading out!

Piazza San Marco

Without a doubt, the most popular square in Venice is Piazza San Marco. All around the square you will find some of the best architecture and most well known buildings that Venice has to offer.

The square has quite a history as it was first built all the way back in the 9 th century (although it was smaller back then). Beyond its beautiful architecture and tiled floor, be on the lookout for the hundreds of pigeons who call St Marks home. And don’t be surprised if you come across a flooded square either. Piazza San Marco is the lowest point of Venice and it does flood after heavy rainfall.

Some of the main highlights that can be found around the square include St Marks Basilica, the San Marco Campanile, Doge’s Palace, and the National Archaeological Museum of Venice.

St Mark’s Basilica

• Opening Hours : 9:30AM – 5:15PM (Sundays & Holidays opens at 2:00PM)
• Sunday Mornings : museum can still be visited
• Entrance Fee : 3 Euro (+5 Euro for Pala d’Oro & +7 Euro for museum)
• Skip the Line Ticket : St Mark’s Basilica Fast Track Entry & Audio Guide

Once you have had enough time outside in the piazza, it is time to head indoors to the St Mark’s Basilica. Here you will find a magnificent building with huge arched ceilings and detailed artwork all throughout.

During a visit to the St Marks Basilica, you can opt to just head into the basilica, or also add on a visit to the Pala d’Oro (golden alter) and Loggia dei Cavalli museum (both for an extra fee).

You can spend your time in the Basilica taking in the ornate architecture, mosaics and artwork, in addition to visiting the Treasury and the Crypt.

Tip : there is also the opportunity to head out onto the St Marks Basilica terrace overlooking the piazza. In order to do so, you must purchase a museum ticket as that is where it connects from.

St Mark’s Bell Tower

• Opening Hours : 9:30AM – 9:15PM
• Entrance Fee : 12 Euro
• Skip the Line Ticket: St Marks Bell Tower Ticket

If you are looking to head up the tallest structure in Venice, then the San Marco Campanile is for you. This is the bell tower of the St Marks Basilica, and can be found just next door.

From the top of the 320 foot / 99 meter tall tower, you will be able to enjoy some of the best views of Venice from above. And don’t worry, you will not need to climb it yourself. Instead a quick lift will take you right on up.

Be sure to book your tickets online ahead of time to guarantee a spot and lessen any potential waiting times.

Important Note:

During the high season, the lines for both the Basilica and Bell Tower can get very long. To avoid this you can purchase skip the line tickets beforehand on the websites linked above. If you do book ahead of time you will be able to skip the lines when you arrive and walk right in.

Doge’s Palace

• Opening Hours : 9:00AM – 7:00PM
• Entrance Fee : 30 Euro
• Skip the Line Tickets : Doge’s Palace Reserved Ticket
• Guided Tour : Doge’s Palace & St. Mark’s Basilica with Terrace Access Tour

Right nearby the square you will find Doge’s Palace , a museum filled with numerous chambers, dungeons, and passageways. You can purchase a ticket to the museum and wander around on your own or you can also take part of a guided tour.

One such tour is called “ Secret Itineraries ”, which takes you through hidden passageways and to rooms not available for the public to see.

Bridge of Sighs

One of the more unique bridges that can be visited during a trip to Venice is the Bridge of Sighs.

The bridge connects Doge’s Palace with Prigioni Nuove (New Prisons), and has quite the history. It was built in 1614 as a way for prisoners to be safely transported from the court at Doge’s Palace directly into the prison.

It has been named the Bridge of Sighs due to the sighs that the prisoners would let out, as they came to the realization they would be headed to prison and may not see Venice again.

If you would like to actually head onto the bridge, that can only be done as part of a Doge’s Palace guided tour. However, if you just want to view from the bridge from afar, you can head to the nearby Paglia Bridge to get the experience.

San Giorgio Maggiore

• Church Hours : 9:00AM – 7:00PM (closes at 6:00PM in winter)
• Entrance Fee : Free (6 Euro for bell tower)
• Tour : Boat Tour with Grand Canal and San Giorgio Maggiore

Located just south from the main Venice island, you will find San Giorgio Maggiore. The island is quite small but does have a historic church and bell tower to visit.

Visiting the island is quite simple as you can catch a vaporetto (waterbus) right over. During a ride towards the island, you will be able to enjoy some views all around, both of mainland Venice and of the island.

The main highlight of the island is the Church of San Giorgio Maggiore, where you will find a beautiful piece of architecture highlighted by some paintings of the artist, Tintoretto.

Be sure to also head up the bell tower, where you can get great views of the island, the water, and of the main Venice area.

While the church and bell tower are the main highlights, feel free to walk around the small island too. The gardens, waterfront area, and overall landscape is a peaceful place to explore outside of the hustle & bustle of Venice.

Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute

• Opening Hours : 9:30AM – 12:00PM and 3:00PM – 5:30PM
• Entrance Fee : Free

Perhaps the most well known basilicas in the city is the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute, one of the places to visit in Venice .

The basilica began construction in 1631 as tribute to the end of a plague that killed many Venetians. It took over 50 years to build, and was finally completed in 1687.

You can find the octagonal Salute at the southern entrance of the Grand Canal, just opposite from the San Marco Square area.

During a visit to Venice, you can opt to view the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute from a distance, or you can make your way across the water and head inside to see it for yourself.

T Fondaco Rooftop Terrace

• Opening Hours : 10:15AM – 6:00PM
• Reserved Tickets : T Fondaco Tickets

As you may imagine, Venice is one of the most picturesque cities to view from above. Taking in views of the canals, churches, and rooftops is going to be a panorama like no other.

One of the best ways to get that elevated view is from a place called the T Fondaco Rooftop Terrace.

Now, this isn’t your ordinary rooftop. Instead, it is actually the rooftop of a shopping mall. Since the viewpoint has been popularized over time, you must make a reservation in advance.

These reservations are free of charge and open up 21 days in advance online. It is important to note that visits are subject to a 15 minute duration, but that should still give you enough time to fully enjoy the view.

Gallerie dell’Accademia

• Opening Hours : 8:15AM – 6:50PM (closed Mondays)
• Official Website (for tickets)

The Accademia Gallery Museum is one of the top choices for museum lovers out there. The art collection comprises of pieces that were created between the 14 th and 18 th centuries.

You will find over 800 individual pieces of art throughout the museum from artists such as Tintoretto, Titian, Bellini, Veneziano, Veronese, among others.

Peggy Guggenheim Collection

• Opening Hours : 10:00AM – 6:00PM (closed Tuesdays)
• Entrance Fee : 16 Euro
• Skip the Line Tickets : Peggy Guggenheim Tickets
• Guided Tour : Peggy Guggenheim Collection Tour with Private Guide
• Official Website

If you are interested in the art world, you can check out the Peggy Guggenheim Collection , which is filled with hundreds of art pieces from some well known artists. It is also right nearby many of the attractions mentioned above so it would be easy to add it onto your day.

The Grand Canal

Odds are at one point or another you will come across the Canal Grande of Venice .

This main canal of the city winds it way through from the train station all the way to the area of Piazza San Marco. Walking along the canal or taking a water bus down it will be an experience of its own.

Note : While you cannot walk along the entirety of the canal, you will have the chance to cross over some bridges and stroll a portion of it.

Ponte di Rialto

The most famous of bridges that hangs over the grand canal is the Ponte di Rialto . As you are walking along the canal be sure to head to this bridge for a great vantage point of the city.

Gondola Ride

A trip to Venice is not complete without the classic gondola ride around the canals right?

If you are interested in taking part, you should have no trouble finding a gondola to take you on a ~40 minute ride all around the city. It won’t come cheap – somewhere in the 80-100 Euro range for the boat, but it will be an experience you won’t forget.

Murano, Burano, Torcello

The last thing I want to mention is a potential day trip outside of the main city of Venice . Throughout the Venetian lagoon you will find several other smaller islands to visit and enjoy.

Three of the main ones are Murano, Burano and Torcello . Murano is known for its exquisite glass making, Burano for its colorful buildings, and Torcello as the original center of Venice.

You can decide to visit them by doing a self guided tour using the waterbus system or join a group (or private) tour. Whatever you decide it is sure to be quite the experience.

If you want to learn more take a look at the Murano, Burano, Torcello overview I have up on the site

Bonus! – Get Lost

While all the above attractions are great places to visit and enjoy, wandering the streets of Venice is a site within its own right . The entire city is just a huge maze of narrow streets, plazas, bridges, and canals.

Simply just head out on your own and get lost for a bit exploring all that Venice has to offer.

→ Why not add Lake Como to your Italy trip while you are at it! You can find the nearest airport to Lake Como to better plan your trip.

2) Map of Attractions

Below you can find a map of the best places to visit in Venice (not including the day trip islands).

Nothing is further than a 15-20 minute walk from one to another but you could also use public transport down the Canal Grande if you would like.

3) How to Get to Venice

There are a few ways to get into Venice depending on where you are coming from – fly, train or bus .

If coming from farther out, a flight into the Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE) is your most likely option. From the airport though you will need to make it to the city center. There are a few ways to get you there.

The easiest and most convenient option is to get a water taxi to take you to your hotel. You can book a shared water taxi over to save a good amount of money.

If you want to get to Venice by land instead of water you can also opt for the bus from the airport to the city center . The ATVO bus goes from the airport to Piazzale Roma, where you can then walk, water taxi or vaporetto to your hotel.

If you are coming into Venice from another city in Italy or a close by country, odds are you will be taking the train. Note though that there are two train stations when looking at schedules.

One is in the Venice center called Venezia Santa Lucia Station and the other is on the Italian mainland – Venezia Mestre Station . Odds are you will want to train into Santa Lucia since it is right in the city itself.

Similar to the train section you can also bus into Venice if coming from nearby. There will also be two different bus stop options – one in the city center called Piazzale Roma and the second on the mainland – Venice Mestre (like the train station).

4) How to Get Around Venice

Once you are in Venice, you will want to figure out how to get around the city. This will also depend on where you are staying and what you want to do in the city.

If you are staying close by to the attractions mentioned above then you will not need to worry too much about transportation within the city.

Walking the streets will work out just fine and you will not necessarily need to take public transport .

However, if you want to venture a bit farther out then the waterbus system is your next best bet .

The ACTV water bus company will be your go to when exploring Venice by boat (Vaporetto). There are set timetables and you can hop on and off the boat at your convenience.

Tickets start at 9.50 Euro, so it is not necessarily that cheap to get around. If you feel like you will be taking the boats a bit more frequently you can opt for a 1, 2, 3, or 7 day pass to save some money.

Be sure to check out the ACTV website for the latest schedules and maps.

5) When to Go to Venice

One of the biggest questions to ask yourself when planning a trip, is when to go to Venice. There are a few main considerations at play here, mostly to do with the tourist crowds and the weather.

Without a doubt, Venice is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. But it is also not that big of a city as its walkways, bridges, plazas, & canals can be overrun with many people.

For some, being around crowds like this just may not be the type of experience that is enjoyable.

While the crowds can be there throughout the year, you will find that the warmer months between May to September bring the most tourists. This is mostly due to summer holidays and the ability to take advantage of other parts of Italy (such as the Amalfi Coast and Capri ).

If you have some flexibility with your trip timing, a visit in the early Spring or late Fall may be a better option altogether when it comes to fewer crowds. And if you want to have the lowest number of tourists around, that usually happens during the colder winter months.

The Weather

When it comes to the weather in Venice, you can expect a Mediterranean climate. The peak summer months can be very hot and uncomfortable for some. Couple that with the peak number of tourists, and it is not the best combo.

Before and after the summer though, the temperatures will be milder & more enjoyable altogether. You can still expect some warm temperatures that are perfect for a comfortable experience altogether.

In the winter, the temperatures will drop further. While it usually doesn’t get below freezing cold, it is still a pretty chilly time of year to visit.

Other Considerations

Beyond the crowds & the weather, there are some other considerations you may want to think about.

Venice hosts a few major festivals throughout the year, when locals & tourists descend on the city. Accommodation will be at a premium and more expensive altogether. However, experiencing a festival may be exactly what you want out of a trip.

Lastly, you should also think about holidays in general such as Easter Week or Christmas time . During these times of the year, many people enjoy traveling which can increase prices and the crowds.

So, with all of that said, I would recommend either a mid-Spring or mid Fall trip. During these times of the year, the crowds would have subsided from their summer peaks & the weather will still be comfortable.

6) Venice Tours

While seeing Venice on your own is one way to go about a visit, taking a guided tour is another option. These tours will give you the chance to see many of the top attractions while having a local guide by your side.

This is a great option for those that really want to learn as they go and have the opportunity to ask questions along the way.

Tours come in all shapes & sizes. You can opt for full day tours visiting several different attractions, or you can opt to just take a tour of a particular place. These usually can be done as both group and private options depending on your overall preference and budget.

Below are some longer half day & full day tour options that come with some very high rated reviews. I have also included in the article tour options for a few particular spots, where having a guide may be more helpful.

• Venice Doge’s Palace & St Mark’s Basilica Skip-the-Line Tour
• Venice: Grand Canal by Gondola with Live Commentary
• Hidden Venice: Unusual Walking Tour
• Venice: Street Food Tour with a Local Guide and Tastings

7) How Many Days in Venice

As you are going about planning an Italy itinerary it is always hard to figure out exactly how many days to spend in each place.

When it comes to Venice though, I would recommend at least 2-3 days to fully appreciate all that it has to offer.

Venice is a place full of bridges, canals, plazas, alleys, and more to explore. In addition to the city itself, there are several attractions to visit in Venice as we talked through in this overview.

You want to give yourself enough time to explore it all at a leisurely pace and to fully enjoy your time there. If you to only have a day, you will find yourself rushing through the top spots and not appreciating the city for what it is.

With 2-3 days in Venice, you will have enough time to visit the top sites, wander the streets, take a day trip out into the Venetian Lagoon, and spend time eating some meals along the way.

You can visit Italy as part of this 10 Day Italy Itinerary or 2 Week Italy Itinerary .

8) Where to Stay in Venice

Venice can get tricky due to the various canals, narrow streets and small bridges all around the city.

I have highlighted below a few hotel options that are close by Piazza San Marco (and many of the other attractions listed). This way, once you are all settled into your hotel, you will not have to be concerned about venturing too far out to start your day.

• Hotel Bisanzio
• Residence Corte Grimani
• Hotel Serenissima
• Hotel Mercurio Venezia
• Duodo Palace Hotel

That about wraps up a guide to the best places to visit in Venice! If you want to learn more about Italy, check out the other Italy itineraries and guides I have up on the site. Also, feel free to ask any questions below!

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7 days Milan, Florence and Venice - Italy Forum

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I’m reaching on 24th 8pm to Milan , and departing from Milan on the 31st at 10 pm

I want to stay in Milan and take day trips to lake como and Venice

I also want to spend some days in Florence and stay the night in Milan

How can I manage to do it ?

4 replies to this topic

What month?

If you have 7 nights consider:

—Train to Florence - 1/2 day

—Florence 3.5 days/4 nights (day trip Venice **, day trip Siena , 1.5 days Florence)

—Train to Milan -1/2 day

—Milan 1.5 days/2 nights (day trip Lake Como , 1/2 day Milan)

—Depart Milan

Pace is 1-4-2.

** Venice is not day trip material but I included it so you had an option….OR consider….head to Venice after first night in Milan. Stay in Venice 3.5 days/4 nights with day trip to Florence. Head back to Milan for 1.5 days/2 nights. You can’t see everything in such limited time. Encourage you to prioritize and create a manageable and enjoyable trip.

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Where to get free solar eclipse glasses: Libraries, Warby Parker and more giving glasses away

You can’t very well watch one of the most anticipated celestial phenomena of the year without a pair of proper eclipse glasses now, can you? 

It's time to figure out where you might procure a pair of ISO-certified glasses , especially with the total solar eclipse just days away – but beware of companies that claim their products are approved by NASA . 

Millions of Americans are set to witness this once-in-a-lifetime event on April 8, with hundreds of cities and smaller towns in 13 states across the country catching “a glimpse of a spectacular sight not often seen,” Michael Zeiler, an eclipse cartographer, previously told USA TODAY. 

The eclipse is predicted to chart along a 115-mile-wide path of totality, shrouding portions of Mexico, the United States and Canada in unnatural darkness and unveiling the sun's elusive outermost layer for a brief moment, USA TODAY reported.

That being said, there are a couple places you might be able to obtain a pair of solar eclipse glasses that are sure to keep your eyes safe. 

The retailers included in this story are giving them out to members of the public, free of charge and while supplies last – though some require the purchase of a product to get the glasses.

You might also be able to find these glasses at your local public library or hardware store in your area. Solar eclipse themed celebrations held and public schools in your area may also provide eclipse glasses free of charge.

Total eclipse 2024 news: Here's the latest weather forecast

How to tell if your solar eclipse glasses are safe

As you begin to scour the internet for a pair of solar eclipse glasses, the safety of your eyes and the eyes of your loved ones should be one of the first things on your mind. Especially, since this total solar eclipse is set “to last longer, be brighter and be visible to more people than the one observed in 2017,” according to USA TODAY reporting. 

You could damage your retinas on eclipse day if you don’t have proper eye protection. Even observing the eclipse through camera lenses, binoculars and telescopes without a specialized solar filter could instantly cause severe eye injury , USA TODAY reported.

That’s why checking out whether the vendor you purchased your glasses from is on the list of verified North American manufacturers by the American Astronomical Society . 

You can also check whether the product you purchase has an “ISO” label, which is a surefire sign that the independent organization vouches for the product's safety and quality.

Where can I get free solar eclipse glasses?

Warby parker.

Warby Parker, an online eyewear retailer wants to “help you see” this special celestial spectacle, offering members of the public a pair of ISO-certified glasses starting Monday, April 1. 

• Dates available : Monday, April 1 through Monday, April 8 
• Quantity : 2 pairs of glasses/family
• Where : Warby Parker retail locations nationwide, find one here. 

Warby Parker has also provided a guide on how to DIY your own pinhole projector if you aren’t located near a store. 

Take the perfect pic: How to get a great photo of the eclipse with your phone

Public libraries offering free eclipse glasses

With help from Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation and the Space Science Institute, The STAR Library Network has been able to distribute 5 million solar eclipse glasses to 10,000 public libraries across the country with assistance from Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, the Space Science Institute and STAR Net’s Solar Eclipse Activities for Libraries program. 

STAR Net has also provided librarians with information and activities that will be shared with library patrons leading up to the big day, according to the STAR Net website. 

• Dates available : Now
• Quantity : 1 pair/patron
• Where : Participating public libraries nationwide, check locations here. 

New York State

New York State is offering members of the public an opportunity to get their hands on two free ISO-certified pairs of “I LOVE NY” solar eclipse glasses, according to the I LOVE NY webpage.

The free pairs of specs are given out daily while supplies last. 

“Please note that there is no guarantee that glasses will be available as demand has been very high,” the website states. 

• Dates available : Now 
• Quantity : 2 pairs of glasses/person 
• Where : “I LOVE NY” eclipse glasses are available at at New York State Welcome Centers, select Thruway Rest Stops, and other locations. Specific locations with addresses are linked here. 

MyEyeDr., which is a network of eye care providers that offers glasses, contacts and ophthalmology services is giving out “free solar eclipse glasses ” on them. 

About 438 participating MyEyeDr. locations will be giving away a free pair of eclipse eyeglasses while supplies last, Forbes reported.

• Quantity : 1 pair of glasses/person
• Where : Participating MyEyeDr. retail locations nationwide, find one here. 

Jeni's Ice Cream

Jeni’s, a Columbus, Ohio-based ice cream brand, will be giving out four pairs of eclipse glasses with purchase of the “Punk Stargonaut collection ,” which are four “out-of-this-world flavors” launched to celebrate the eclipse.

• Dates available : Thursday, March 28 (online) and Friday, April 5 (in-store)
• Quantity : 4 pairs with purchase of Punk Stargonaut collection
• Where : Jeni’s Ice Cream website and Jeni’s Ice Cream parlors

Perfect Snacks

Perfect Snacks, a protein bar brand that manufactures Perfects Bars has decided to debut a new flavor tied to the upcoming eclipse, Chocolate Brownie. The company is also offering customers the chance to get 20% off the new flavor since it will be 20 years before another solar eclipse will be visible in the U.S. 

Online orders for Chocolate Brownie bars come with free eclipse glasses, while supplies last, USA TODAY reported. 

• Quantity : Unclear 
• Where : Select grocery stores and nationwide retailers like Target and Walmart 

Smoothie King 

Smoothie King is celebrating the once-in-a-lifetime celestial moment with a themed-drink called the “Eclipse Berry Blitz.” 

The smoothie, which will be available for purchase March 27 through April 8 is made with “bananas, wild blueberries, apples, blueberry juice blend, white grape lemon juice blend, protein blend and blue spirulina, a blue-green algae powder .”

Smoothie aficionados who buy an Eclipse Berry Blitz at a participating Smoothie King location within the path of totality will also get a free pair of eclipse glasses while supplies last. 

• Dates available : Wednesday, March 27 through Monday, April 8
• Quantity : 1 pair of glasses with purchase of “Eclipse Berry Blitz.” 
• Where : Participating Smoothie King locations 

Sonic Drive-In

Smoothie King isn’t the only restaurant with a solar eclipse themed beverage, choosing to offer customers a “ Blackout Slush Float ”  to celebrate the momentous occasion. The drink will be available through Sunday, May 5. 

Sonic will also be hanging out “free solar eclipse viewing glasses with every purchase of the float, while supplies last.” 

• Dates available : Now through Sunday, May 5
• Quantity : 1 pair of glasses with purchase of “ Blackout Slush Float .” 
• Where : Participating Sonic Drive-In locations nationwide

One of America’s favorite space themed snack brands is offering customers the chance to purchase a “MoonPie Solar Eclipse Survival kit” online for $9.99, which comes with four chocolate mini MoonPies and two pairs of eclipse glasses. 

Glasses can also be purchased on MoonPie’s site for $1.99.

• Dates available : Now through Monday, April 8
• Quantity : 2 pairs of glasses per “MoonPie Solar Eclipse Survival kit”
• Where : MoonPie’s website , Dollar Tree locations nationwide, select Walmart retail locations

Contributing: Eric Lagatta and Mike Snider

Will solar eclipse be visible in Florida? How much will you see? Enter ZIP code for answers

The 2024 solar eclipse is five days away.

For those still unsure, or have been focused on other news, Florida won't see a total eclipse where the moon totally blocks the sun, but will see a partial eclipse on April 8. How much of the sun will be blocked depends on where you are in the state.

Enter your ZIP code to see specifics on what you will be able to see from any Florida location, along with when the eclipse will start, end and maximum coverage of the sun.

Countdown clock to 2024 solar eclipse

What time will the solar eclipse be visible in florida.

While Florida isn't in the path of totality,  residents will be able to see a partial eclipse.  Here's  when you can watch  the eclipse from any Florida location.

Click on your location in the map to see:

• When the eclipse starts at your location
• What the maximum coverage will be
• What time maximum coverage will occur
• When the eclipse ends at your location
• Chances for clear skies based on historical averages for April 8

Roughly speaking, the peak of the eclipse will happen about 1:55 p.m. CDT in Pensacola and 3:02 p.m. EDT on Miami Beach.

Can't see the map?  Open in a new browser.

➤  See exact times to go outside to see the eclipse across Florida

Interactive map: Enter your ZIP code to see when the eclipse starts, peak coverage, when it ends

Can't see our graphics? Click here to reload the page.

Enter your ZIP code to see:

• When the eclipse starts at your location.
• When the peak coverage will be.
• What the peak coverage will be.
• When the eclipse ends.
• How long the partial eclipse will last.
• How are you are from the path of totality.

The time lapse graphic shows what the eclipse will look from Orlando.

Timing of 2024 solar eclipse in Pineville, best viewing location in Florida

All times are local.

• Start: 12:36 p.m.
• Peak: 1:55 p.m.
• End: 3:13 p.m.
• Maximum coverage: 78.6%
• Total time: 2 hours 37 minutes

Timing of 2024 solar eclipse in Pensacola

All times are local. ZIP code 32501.

• Start: 12:35 p.m.
• Maximum coverage: 76.6%

Timing of 2024 solar eclipse in Fort Walton Beach

All times are local. ZIP code 32547.

• Start: 12:37 p.m.
• Peak: 1:56 p.m.
• End: 3:14 p.m.
• Maximum coverage: 75.4%
• Total time: 2 hours 36 minutes

Timing of 2024 solar eclipse in Panama City

All times are local. ZIP code 32401.

• Start: 12:38 p.m.
• Peak: 1:57 p.m.
• Maximum coverage: 72.2%

Timing of 2024 solar eclipse in Tallahassee

All times are local. ZIP code 32301.

• Start: 1:42 p.m.
• Peak: 3 p.m.
• End: 4:16 p.m.
• Maximum coverage: 70.1%
• Total time: 2 hours 34 minutes

Timing of 2024 solar eclipse in Jacksonville

All times are local. ZIP code 32034.

• Start: 1:48 p.m.
• Peak: 3:05 p.m.
• End: 4:20 p.m.
• Maximum coverage: 65.2%
• Total time: 2 hours 32 minutes

Timing of 2024 solar eclipse in St. Augustine

All times are local. ZIP code 32080.

• End: 4:19 p.m.
• Maximum coverage: 61.8%
• Total time: 2 hours 31 minutes

Timing of 2024 solar eclipse in Gainesville

All times are local. ZIP code 32601.

• Start: 1:45 p.m.
• Peak: 3:03 p.m.
• End: 4:18 p.m.
• Maximum coverage: 63.4%

Timing of 2024 solar eclipse in Ocala

All times are local. ZIP code 34470.

• Peak: 3:02 p.m.
• End: 4:17 p.m.
• Maximum coverage: 61.4%

Timing of 2024 solar eclipse in Leesburg

All times are local. ZIP code 33585.

• Maximum coverage: 59.8%

Timing of 2024 solar eclipse in Daytona Beach

All times are local. ZIP code 32114.

• Peak: 3:04 p.m.
• Maximum coverage: 59.3%
• Total time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Timing of 2024 solar eclipse in Melbourne

All times are local. ZIP code 32901.

• Maximum coverage: 54.7%
• Total time: 2 hours 29 minutes

Timing of 2024 solar eclipse in Vero Beach

All times are local. ZIP code 32960.

• Maximum coverage: 52.8%
• Total time: 2 hours 28 minutes

Timing of 2024 solar eclipse in Orlando

All times are local. ZIP code 32789.

• Start: 1:46 p.m.
• Maximum coverage: 57.9%

All times are local. Timing of 2024 solar eclipse at Disney World

All times are local. ZIP code 32836.

• Maximum coverage: 57.6%

Timing of 2024 solar eclipse in Lakeland

All times are local. ZIP code 33801.

• Start: 1:44 p.m.
• Peak: 3:01 p.m.
• End: 4:15 p.m.
• Maximum coverage: 57.2%

Timing of 2024 solar eclipse in Winter Haven

All times are local. ZIP code 33839.

• Maximum coverage: 56.6%

Timing of 2024 solar eclipse in Fort Pierce

All times are local. ZIP code 34946.

• Maximum coverage: 52.2%

Timing of 2024 solar eclipse in Stuart

All times are local. ZIP code 34957.

• Maximum coverage: 51.1%
• Total time: 2 hours 27 minutes

Timing of 2024 solar eclipse in West Palm Beach

All times are local. ZIP code 33401.

• Maximum coverage: 49.1%
• Total time: 2 hours 26 minutes

Timing of 2024 solar eclipse in Naples

All times are local. ZIP code 34102.

• Start: 1:43 p.m.
• Peak: 2:59 p.m.
• End: 4:12 p.m.
• Maximum coverage: 50.6%

Timing of 2024 solar eclipse in Miami

All times are local. ZIP code 33101.

• Start: 1:47 p.m.
• End: 4:13 p.m.
• Maximum coverage: 46.2%
• Total time: 2 hours 25 minutes

Timing of 2024 solar eclipse in Key West

All times are local. ZIP code 33040.

• Peak: 2:56 p.m.
• End: 4:09 p.m.
• Maximum coverage: 45.5%

Timing of 2024 solar eclipse in Fort Myers

All times are local. ZIP code 33901.

• Maximum coverage: 52.3%

Timing of 2024 solar eclipse in Sarasota

All times are local. ZIP code 34230.

• Maximum coverage: 56.1%

When to see the eclipse in Florida: Search by ZIP code for viewing guide of April 8 solar eclipse

The day of the 2024 solar eclipse. is nearing and while Florida won't be in the path of totality , residents will be able to see a partial eclipse on April 8.

Those in the northern parts of the state will see the moon block more of the sun than those farther south.

It's important to emphasize: Do not look directly at the sun, even during an eclipse. You can seriously damage your eyes . There might still time to get a pair of solar glasses or make a pinhole projector. Be sure to watch out for fake eclipse glasses . They're dangerous.

Want to have some fun while viewing the eclipse? Wear red or green during the eclipse for a fun science lesson.

See when the eclipse will occur and what it'll look like from Florida.

When is the solar eclipse?

The solar eclipse will take place April 8.

What will the solar eclipse look like in Florida?

Can't see our graphics? Click here to reload the page.

Countdown clock to 2024 solar eclipse

Path of 2024 total solar eclipse.

The path of totality for April's solar eclipse stretches from northern Mexico to southeastern Canada before moving over the Atlantic Ocean.

In the United States, April's total solar eclipse will  cross 13 states.

Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine, plus parts of Tennessee and Michigan, are all in the 115-mile-wide path of totality.

To see the exact path of totality, check out  an interactive map  created by French eclipse expert Xavier Jubier.

How much of the solar eclipse will be visible in Florida?

Florida is not in the path of totality for April's solar eclipse. That means the moon won't totally block the sun.

Depending on where you are in the Sunshine State, the moon will block  anywhere from 54 percent to 82 percent  of the sun. Residents in the northwest corner of the state will see more of the eclipse.

➤ See exact times to go outside to see the eclipse across Florida

What's the best place in Florida to see the Great North American Eclipse?

Pineville, in the northwestern tip of Florida's Panhandle, is the  city in Florida where the greatest percentage of the sun will be covered  during the eclipse, according to  Eclipse2024.

At the midpoint of the eclipse, Pineville viewers will see 82.4 percent of the sun covered at 1:55 .m. CDT, closely followed by Bratt with 82.3 percent of the sun blocked by the moon.

Can you damage your eyes if you look at the sun during an eclipse?

Yes. The only time you can look directly at the sun is when the moon totally blocks it, which will not happen anywhere in Florida.

Looking directly at the  sun can cause permanent damage  to your eyes, including blindness.

To look at the sun to see the eclipse, you'll need solar eclipse glasses or some sort of projector.

Warby Parker offered free eclipse glasse s  at its locations starting April 1. Some  libraries have free solar glasses  available but call first to make sure some are still available.

Florida will be in path of totality for 2045 solar eclipse

While Florida will see only a partial eclipse on April 8, mark your calendars for another eclipse with a great view.

On Aug. 12, 2045, a total solar eclipse will be visible over almost all of Florida , according to  NationalEclipse.com.

2045 solar eclipse and Florida: Mark your calendar! Florida in prime viewing area for a different total solar eclipse

States in the path of totality  — where residents will see the moon completely block the sun — include not only Florida but also: California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, and Georgia.

Contributors: Ramon Padilla, Katrina Zaiets, USA TODAY