Things to Do in Venice

Welcome to Venice, a city of unparalleled beauty and historical significance, floating on its serene canals in the heart of Italy. Known worldwide for its intricate waterways, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural heritage, Venice offers a unique journey into a magical realm where the charm of oldworld Europe blends seamlessly with timeless Italian elegance.

Table of Contents

• Iconic Attractions
• Cultural and Historical Tours
• Island Adventures
• Unique Experiences and Activities

Iconic Attractions

Venice is not just a city; it's a living museum with attractions that have captured imaginations for centuries. This section highlights the most iconic sights that are essential for any visitor's itinerary.

1. Piazza San Marco

Often referred to as the drawing room of Europe, Piazza San Marco is the principal public square of Venice. Home to the majestic Basilica di San Marco, with its lavish design and golden mosaics, and the towering Campanile, this square offers awe-inspiring views and a glimpse into the city’s grand history.

• Location: Piazza San Marco, 30124 Venice, Italy
• Hours: Open 24/7
• Cost: Free
• Features: Central square, home to Basilica di San Marco, Campanile, and Doge’s Palace; vibrant atmosphere, historic cafés.

2. Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale)

Adjacent to the Basilica, the Doge's Palace stands as a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Once the residence of the Doge of Venice, the palace now serves as a museum. A tour here reveals opulent chambers, intricate frescoes, and the eerie Bridge of Sighs, which offers a poignant view from the palace to the historical prisons.

3. Basilica San Marco

A symbol of Venetian wealth and power, the Basilica of San Marco dazzles with its elaborate architecture. This cathedral is known for its stunning gold ground mosaics and priceless treasures, an embodiment of Venetian artistry and faith.

4. Grand Canal and Ponte di Rialto

The Grand Canal is the main artery of Venice, snaking through the city and reflecting the grand facades of buildings lining its banks. The Rialto Bridge, one of the oldest bridges spanning the canal, has been a busy crossing and a central commerce area for hundreds of years.

5. Gallerie dell’Accademia

Gallerie dell’Accademia located on the south bank of the Grand Canal, this prestigious gallery houses one of Italy’s finest collections of Venetian art. Here, masterpieces by Titian, Tintoretto, and Bellini tell the rich story of Venice through the ages.

• Location: Campo della Carità, Dorsoduro 1050, 30123 Venice, Italy
• Hours: Mon 8:15 AM - 2:00 PM; Tue-Sun 8:15 AM - 7:15 PM
• Cost: Full price: €12; Reduced: €2 (EU citizens 18-25); Free for under 18 and over 65
• Features: Renowned Venetian art collection; works by Titian, Tintoretto, Bellini; housed in a former convent.

6. Scuola Grande di San Rocco

Scuola Grande di San Rocco is famed for its sumptuous interiors and stunning series of paintings by Tintoretto, the Scuola Grande di San Rocco offers an artistic experience that rivals some of the best galleries in the world.

7. Jewish Quarter

The Venetian Ghetto, established in 1516, was one of the first areas in the world where Jews were permitted to live and do business. Today, it remains a focal point of Jewish culture in Europe, offering historical insights, museums, and active synagogues.

• Location: Campo del Ghetto Nuovo, Cannaregio, 30121 Venice, Italy
• Hours: Open 24/7; Museums and synagogues have varied hours
• Cost: Ghetto Museum: €12; Synagogue tours included with museum ticket
• Features: Historical Jewish area; synagogues, museums; kosher restaurants; cultural insights.

8. Fondamenta della Misericordia

This less frequented canalside walk in the Cannaregio district is lined with old palazzos and offers a quieter side of Venetian life. Here, visitors can enjoy authentic Venetian restaurants, bars, and the serene atmosphere away from the tourist throngs.

Cultural and Historical Tours

Venice is steeped in a rich tapestry of history and culture, offering a diverse range of tours that allow visitors to delve deep into its past and present. Here are some of the most immersive and enlightening cultural and historical tours available in Venice.

1. Guided Tours of Venice

Group Tours: Join a group to explore major landmarks and hidden gems alike. These tours are great for firsttime visitors, providing a comprehensive overview of the city's highlights.

Private Tours: For a more personalized experience, private tours cater to your interests, whether it’s art, architecture, or the intriguing history of Venice.

2. Legendary Venice: St. Mark's Basilica with Terrace Access & Doge’s Palace

Experience two of Venice’s most iconic buildings with skip-the-line access. This tour includes a visit to St. Mark’s Basilica, where you can admire the stunning gold mosaics and breathtaking views from the terrace, and explore the lavish rooms and grim prisons of the Doge’s Palace.

3. The Hidden Canals: Electric Boat Tours

Discover the lesserknown canals of Venice in a quiet, ecofriendly electric boat. This tour offers a different perspective of the city, highlighting secluded waterways and the daily life of Venetians away from the crowded tourist paths.

4. Tour of the Real Hidden Venice

 Explore areas of Venice that are not typically covered by standard tours. This adventure takes you through residential neighborhoods, artisan workshops, and local markets, offering insights into the authentic Venetian lifestyle.

5. Venice Art and Architecture Tours

 Specialized tours focusing on Venice’s rich artistic heritage and unique architectural styles. These tours can include visits to famous sites like the Ca' Rezzonico or lesserknown gems such as the Madonna dell'Orto church, showcasing works by Tintoretto.

6. Historical Insights Tours

 Delve into the intriguing history of Venice through tours that focus on specific aspects of its past, from its maritime empire to its role in the Renaissance. These tours often include visits to historical libraries, archives, and the Arsenale, where Venice’s powerful navy was once built.

7. Venetian Crafts and Traditions

Engage with the centuries-old crafts that are still alive in Venice today. Tours might include demonstrations of glassblowing in Murano or lacemaking in Burano, providing a hands-on understanding of these ancient arts.

Island Adventures

Venice is surrounded by a picturesque lagoon dotted with intriguing islands, each boasting its own unique character and history. Embarking on island adventures offers a refreshing escape from the bustling mainland and a chance to explore Venice's diverse cultural landscape.

1. Day Trips to Murano, Burano, and Torcello

• Murano: Famous for its centuries-old glassmaking tradition, Murano is home to numerous glass factories and workshops where visitors can watch glassblowing artisans at work. The island also hosts the Museo del Vetro (Glass Museum), which chronicles the history of glassmaking and its evolution.
• Burano: Renowned for its brightly colored fishermen's houses and lacemaking heritage, Burano offers a visual feast and a slower pace of life. The Lace Museum there displays exquisite examples of the intricate craft.
• Torcello: Considered the mother of Venice, Torcello is a serene island with a rich historical tapestry. The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, founded in 639 AD, features stunning mosaics that are well worth a visit.

2. Murano Handblown Glass Demonstrations

 Visitors can participate in guided tours that include live demonstrations at some of Murano’s most prestigious glass factories. These tours provide insight into the delicate and skilled process of glassblowing and often include opportunities to purchase oneofakind pieces directly from the artisans.

3. The Colorful Island of Burano

 A guided tour of Burano not only highlights its vibrant architecture but also delves into its traditions of lacemaking. Visitors can explore small shops where local craftswomen weave lace using techniques passed down through generations.

Unique Experiences and Activities

Venture beyond the usual tourist paths to uncover unique experiences and activities that showcase Venice's diverse offerings. This section guides you through some of the city's most distinctive and memorable adventures.

1. Gondola Rides with Live Commentary

Experience Venice's iconic mode of transport with a twist. These gondola rides are accompanied by live commentary from knowledgeable guides who share fascinating stories and insights about the city's history and culture as you glide along its famous canals.

2. Cicchetti Tasting Tours (Venetian Tapas)

Dive into the heart of Venetian cuisine with a cicchetti tasting tour. Cicchetti are small snacks or side dishes, and you'll get to try various types served in traditional bacari (wine bars). It's a culinary journey that offers a taste of the local lifestyle and gastronomy.

3. Venice from Above: Saint Mark’s Bell Tower at Sunset

 For breathtaking panoramic views of Venice, climb or take an elevator up to the top of Saint Mark's Bell Tower. Visiting at sunset offers a spectacular perspective as the city bathes in golden hues, providing perfect photo opportunities and a memorable experience.

4. Exploring the Venetian Lagoon by Private Boat

Customize your exploration of Venice with a private boat tour. This allows for a personalized and intimate experience, navigating through lesserknown canals or visiting secluded islands, all at your own pace.

5. Venice Biennale: Art and Architecture Exhibitions

Participate in one of the most prestigious cultural events in the world. The Venice Biennale hosts international art and architecture exhibitions, showcasing cuttingedge works and installations that transform the cityscape every two years.

6. Engaging with Venetian Theatre and Live Performances

Venice has a rich theatrical tradition, and experiencing a live performance, whether it’s opera in a historic theater like La Fenice or an avantgarde show in a more contemporary venue, is a must. These performances provide a deeper connection to the artistic heart of the city.

7. Photography Tours

Guided by professional photographers, these tours help you capture the magical light and unique scenes of Venice. Ideal for photography enthusiasts, the tours offer tips on composition and technique while taking you to picturesque spots around the city.

8. Nighttime Kayak Adventures in the Canals

For a truly unique perspective, consider a guided nighttime kayak tour. Paddling through the quiet canals under the stars offers a serene and enchanting experience of Venice, highlighting the city's beauty in a different light.

9. MaskMaking Workshops

Engage in a handson workshop where you can learn the art of Venetian maskmaking from local artisans. These workshops delve into the history of the carnival masks and allow you to create your personalized souvenir.