11 Best Things to Do in Venice: The Italy Dreams are Made Of
Make the most of your trip to Italy by adding these can’t miss Venice sights to your list of things to do in Venice!
Ah Venice, a city that needs no introduction. With its timeless beauty, rich history, and captivating atmosphere, Venice is a destination that fascinates people all over the world.
For those fortunate enough to visit Venice, there’s a ton of unforgettable experiences to add to your Venice itinerary. From exploring the iconic landmarks of St. Mark’s Square and the Doge’s Palace to gliding through the famous canals in a gondola, you’re in for a treat.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an art lover, a hopeless romantic, or a foodie, Venice has something for everyone. Lose yourself in the labyrinthine streets. Marvel at the artistry of Venetian glassblowers on Murano Island. Savor delectable Venetian cuisine in a traditional trattoria. It’s an amazing city.
Let’s take a look at the best things to do in Venice to help you uncover the magic of this extraordinary European city.
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1. Meander through the Canals of Venice
Venice is most famous for its intricate network of canals. These canals are not just an integral part of the city’s unique charm, but also of the transportation system in Venice. While it’s difficult to give an exact number, there are estimated to be around 150 canals in Venice with over 400 bridges.
These canals crisscross the city, creating a web-like structure that connects its various islands and neighborhoods. The largest and most prominent canal in Venice is the Grand Canal. It serves as the main thoroughfare and divides the city into two halves. In addition to this canal, here are tons of smaller canals that wind through the narrow streets, providing access to homes, businesses, and historic landmarks.
Exploring Venice’s canals is a delightful adventure, whether you opt to do it on land on on the water. It offers you a glimpses of the city’s architecture and daily life. Each canal presents a new perspective and an opportunity to further immerse yourself into the many amazing things to experience in Venice.
You can choose to wander through the endless canals by yourself, or join a walking tour of Venice to be guided through the canals and locate the most famous sights in Venice!
2. Take a Gondola Ride
One of the most famous Venetian experiences is taking a gondola ride. Drifting through the picturesque waterways in a traditional black gondola, propelled by a gondolier in his striped shirt and straw hat, is an iconic symbol of Venice.
As you go through the narrow canals, you’ll pass by historic buildings, picturesque bridges, and quaint squares. The gondolier may even serenade you with a traditional Venetian song. Whether you’re riding with a loved one, by yourself, or with friends and family, a gondola ride is a must-do in Venice. Book your gondola ride online!
Unfortunately, gondola rides can be quite pricey and may not fit into your budget, but don’t give up hope of gliding through the canals. If you’re looking for an alternative to a gondola ride in Venice, there are several other enjoyable ways to explore the city’s canals. Here are your best bets:
- Vaporetto (Water Bus): Vaporettos are public water buses that operate along the Grand Canal and throughout the city’s waterways. They offer a cost-effective way to navigate Venice’s canals while enjoying the beautiful views. You can purchase tickets at the ticket booths located at the major vaporetto stops.
- Traghetti: Traghetti are large gondolas that serve as a means of transport across the Grand Canal at various points. These gondolas function like a ferry, allowing pedestrians to cross the canal quickly and affordably. Although it may not provide the same romantic experience as a gondola, it can be a fun and unique way to get across the canals of Venice.
- Water Taxi: If you’re looking for a more private and convenient option, you can consider hiring a water taxi. Water taxis are a bit more expensive than other forms of transportation in Venice, but they offer a faster and more personalized way to explore the canals. You can find water taxis at designated stands or book them through hotels or taxi companies.
Want to see most of Venice in a day?
This popular day tour takes you to the Rialto Bridge, on a gondola ride through the Grand Canal, through St. Marks’s Basilica, and provides skip-the-line access to Doge’s Palace!
3. Admire St. Mark’s Square & Basilica
St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco) is the considered the heart of Venice. It’s always bustling with locals and tourists alike. This picturesque square is dominated by the stunning St. Mark’s Basilica (Basilica di San Marco), a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture, which is adorned with intricate mosaics.
Nearby, the Campanile offers panoramic views of the city. The square is also home to the Doge’s Palace, a symbol of Venetian power and wealth, which can be explored through guided tours.
When you visit St. Mark’s Square, you’ll definitely want to visit the Basilica, and then I recommend you relax at one of the historic cafรฉs that line the square, sipping a coffee or a Bellini while admiring the architectural wonders surrounding you.
Book your fast-track entry to St. Mark’s Basilica before your visit, or due to its popularity, you may want to skip the crowds and try an after-hours tour of St. Mark’s Basilica for a more intimate experience.
4. Visit Doge’s Palace
The Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale) is an architectural marvel that reflects Venice’s rich history. Once the residence of the doge (the chief magistrate of the Venetian Republic), this Gothic palace is a testament to the city’s past glory.
You’ll have to take a tour of Doge’s Palace to explore its lavishly decorated rooms, admire its beautiful artwork, and walk across the famous Bridge of Sighs that connects the palace to the old prisons. For additional insight into the political and judicial systems of the Republic, consider a guided tours. Guides are also able to highlight the significance of the artwork displayed.
The Doge’s Palace is a must-see attraction in Venice that transports you back in time and offers a glimpse into Venice’s golden age. Skip-the-ticket line by buying your Doge Palace ticket in advance.
Book a skip-the-line tour of St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace to save time when visiting these two amazing places in Venice.
5. Cross the Rialto Bridge
Spanning the Grand Canal, the Rialto Bridge (Ponte di Rialto) is another iconic landmark in Venice. Dating back to the 16th century, it is the oldest and most famous bridge in the city. The bridge is considered an architectural masterpiece featuring elegant arches and shops lining the sides.
Crossing the Rialto Bridge is an essential Venetian experience, offering a glimpse into the city’s historical and commercial significance. From the bridge, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Grand Canal that really capture the essence of Venice’s waterways.
For the best views of the Rialto Bridge, you’ll have to walk down the canal a bit, but there’s more to see in the area. Make sure to check out the nearby Rialto Market, where you can shop for fresh produce, fish, and other local products.
6. Explore the Grand Canal
The Grand Canal is the main waterway that winds its way through Venice and acts as the city’s “main street.” Exploring the Grand Canal on a vaporetto (water bus) ride is a fantastic way to soak in the beauty and grandeur of Venice.
The canal is lined with magnificent palazzos, churches, and historical buildings that showcase the various architectural styles and the city’s rich heritage. As you explore the canal, you’ll pass under multiple bridges and be able to witness the daily life of Venetians.
Whether you opt to take a ride on the Grand Canal or simply grab a snack or drink and admire it from the side, you’ll understand why Venice is such a special city.
7. Visit the Peggy Guggenheim Collection
Located on the Grand Canal, the Peggy Guggenheim Collection is a haven for art lovers. Housed in Peggy Guggenheim’s former home, this museum showcases a remarkable collection of modern art. You’ll find works by influential artists, such as Picasso, Pollock, Dalรญ, and Kandinsky, among others.
The museum’s intimate setting allows for an immersive experience, where you can appreciate the evolution and impact of the 20th-century art movements. From surrealism to abstract expressionism, the Peggy Guggenheim Collection offers a glimpse into the avant-garde art world, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts.
Explore one of the most important cultural attractions in Venice with a skip-the-line ticket to the Peggy Guggenheim Collection.
8. Visit Burano and Murano Islands
One of the most popular side trips from Venice is taking a boat trip to the colorful islands of Burano and Murano in the Venetian Lagoon.
Burano is renowned for its rows of houses painted in bright hues, creating a picturesque backdrop. The island is also famous for its intricate lace-making tradition where local artisans produce delicate lace products that showcase their craftsmanship.
On the other hand, Murano is celebrated for its glass-making industry. Here you can witness glassblowers shaping molten glass into exquisite creations. Explore the beautiful streets. Visit the workshops. Truly immerse yourself in the rich artistic heritage of these islands near Venice.
Check out this amazing guided small-group tour to Murano and Burano using a private boat and guide!
Want to add on a trip to Torcello Island with Murano and Burano? Check out this popular tour to all three islands – including a glass blowing demonstration!
9. Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute
Standing majestically at the entrance of the Grand Canal, the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute is a stunning example of Venetian architecture. Built in the 17th century as a votive offering for the city’s deliverance from the plague, this baroque masterpiece is characterized by its distinctive domes and marble faรงade.
Step inside to admire its ornate altars and beautiful art. Climb up to the rooftop terrace to enjoy panoramic views of Venice’s skyline, including the other iconic domes of the city at St. Mark’s Basilica.
10. Explore the Lesser-known Neighborhoods
While the main Venice attractions are captivating, taking the time to explore the lesser-known neighborhoods unveils a different side of the city.
Cannaregio, for instance, offers a more local and laid-back atmosphere. Discover hidden squares, tiny alleyways, and authentic Venetian eateries, all of which provide a glimpse into everyday Venetian life.
Dorsoduro on the other hand is known for its bohemian vibe and is home to several art galleries, cafรฉs, and the renowned Accademia Gallery, which houses a remarkable collection of Venetian Renaissance art.
Exploring these less popular Venice neighborhoods allows for a deeper appreciation of the city and also helps you escape the infamous Venice crowds. To get a greater appreciation of these local gems, you may want to take a guided tour off the beaten path in Venice!
11. Try Venetian Cuisine
No visit to Venice is complete without indulging in the local cuisine. You’ll have to sample traditional Venetian dishes, like risotto with seafood, fegato alla veneziana (sautรฉed liver), baccalร mantecato (creamed cod), or sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines).
Head to the bacari, small local bars, to enjoy cicchetti, the Venetian version of tapas. Here you can savor an array of small bites paired with a glass of wine. Don’t forget to treat yourself to tiramisu, a classic Italian dessert that originated in the region.
Venetian cuisine combines flavors of the sea, regional produce, and traditional techniques to create a unique culinary experience. From waterfront restaurants offering stunning canal views to cozy trattorias tucked away in narrow alleyways, Venice offers a variety of dining options to suit every palate.
Make sure to pair your meal with a glass of Prosecco, the sparkling wine produced in the nearby region of Veneto, or try the local Venetian Aperol Spritz, a refreshing cocktail that has become an international favorite.
Want to eat like a local?
Join a walking food tour to sample a variety of regional foods, like fresh seafood, Venetian wines, and homemade gelato.
Explore More of Italy
From the bucket list worthy gondola rides to the intricate architectural wonders, Venice is sure to wow you with its rich history, culture, and charm. With so many amazing Venetian experiences to choose from, you’ll have to carefully plan your trip to fit them all in!
Now that you know the best things to do in Venice, it’s time to start exploring other parts of the amazing country of Italy to see where else you may want to visit! Here are some posts to get you started.
- 40 Best Things to Do in Florence, Italy
- How to Day Trip to Siena from Florence + One Day Itinerary for Siena
- Planning a Trip to Cinque Terre: The Complete Guide
- Where to Stay in Cinque Terre, Italy: Selecting the Right Town for Your Trip
- Visiting the Famous Romeo & Juliet Balcony in Verona, Italy
- 10 Secrets of Bologna to Know Before You Go
- 10 Best Things to Do in Bologna, Italy: The City of Porticos
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