Venice, the magical place of canals, gondolas and history, has something for everyone. This list includes all the things you can see and do in Venice, describing them, and giving pieces of advice:
Table of Contents
1. St. Mark’s Basilica (Basilica di San Marco)
St Mark’s Basilica, a Byzantine masterpiece, is a must-see place in Venice. Admire its golden mosaics, its sculpted domes and the magnificent Pala d’Oro, a golden altarpiece covered with precious stones. Take a look inside for its majestic columns and beautiful marble surfaces. The roof-top terrace over St Mark’s Square offers great views. To dive deeper you can go to the museum and see original mosaics and historical pieces. You can avoid the crowds by visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon, and guided tours provide fascinating explanations of the basilica’s history and symbolism.
2. Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale)
The Doge’s Palace is a triumph of Venetian Gothic elegance and was the family home of the Doges. Take a stroll through its grand rooms with paintings by Titian, Veronese and Tintoretto. Its highlights include the Hall of the Great Council, the grand staircase and the Bridge of Sighs linking the palace to the former prison. Visits to the passageways provide an insight into palace crypts, offices and interrogation chambers. The palace offers an informative tour of Venice’s political, juridical and artistic past, and visitors can marvel at its sculptural beauty.
3. Gondola Ride
A ride in a gondola is the perfect Venetian moment. Walk along the city’s network of canals while experiencing the beauty of centuries-old palaces, narrow cobblestone streets and life in the waterways. Choose a route along the Grand Canal for great landmarks or on the side canals to enjoy a quieter and more private experience. There are numerous gondoliers telling you about their history and it adds a bit of atmosphere to the experience. Take a sunset boat for the romantic atmosphere or listen to live music if it’s available. It is a peculiar way to view Venice’s beauty in its most magical form.
4. Rialto Bridge (Ponte di Rialto)
Venice’s signature bridge, Rialto Bridge, spans the Grand Canal with its beautiful stone archways. It is a place of action and provides stunning views over the canal and the streets below. Go early to avoid crowds, or come at sunset for enchanted shots. Explore the shops along the bridge that sell jewellery, souvenirs and Venetian glass. Nearby, there’s the lively Rialto Market, where you can taste regional foods, like fresh seafood, fruits and vegetables. It is the ideal place to immerse yourself in Venetian industry and tradition.
5. Grand Canal (Canal Grande)
The Grand Canal in Venice, the most famous of the canals, is a visual feast for the eyes. Use a vaporetto (water bus) for a cheap ride along its entire length, or opt for a gondola for a more exclusive trip. Walk the canal and admire the Ca’ d’Oro, the Accademia Bridge, and the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute. There is something magical about the canal at night with city lights on the water. Venetian, which is a very popular and ancient city, is situated on the Grand Canal.
6. Murano Island
Murano Island, renowned for its centuries-old glassmaking legacy, is a fantastic small substitute for Venice. Visit a glassblowing studio to observe the artists as they produce a piece of art. Discover more about the traditional practices and crafts of the island by taking a tour of the Murano Glass Museum. Explore the canals to find cafes and tiny stores. Don’t miss the Basilica of Santa Maria e San Donato, which has beautiful mosaics and artifacts. The island’s quietness and creative legacy make it a magical location.
7. Burano Island
Burano Island is well-known for its vibrant homes and lacemaking.With each house painted a different color, every canal walk seems like it belongs in a fairy tale.Discover the centuries-old history of Burano’s elaborate lace at the Lace Museum.Savor the cuisine, particularly the fresh seafood from the island and the Bussolà, a native cookie.Burano’s laid-back vibe and sunny vibe provide a pleasant diversion from Venice’s fast-paced environment.
8. Peggy Guggenheim Collection
The Peggy Guggenheim Collection contains the masterpieces of modern art in a beautiful mansion on the Grand Canal. Explore the paintings of Picasso, Pollock, Dali and more in this small museum. The sculpture garden is a calm place to think and the terrace offers spectacular views of the Grand Canal. Special displays and tours add a layer of experience. To see this collection is a refreshing trip into the 20th-century art world and a departure from Venice’s long history.
9. Teatro La Fenice
The Teatro La Fenice in Venice is an icon of resilience and talent. It has been reconstructed several times after horrific fires and is lavish in its interiors with gilded plasterwork and frescoed ceilings. Visit it on a guided tour to see its long history and memorable performances. If you can, visit an opera, ballet or concert and soak up its legendary acoustics and magical vibes. The history of the theatre and the architectural splendour make it an iconic cultural treasure of Venice.
Conclusion
Venice is a place of history, culture and architectural beauty. Whether it’s boating along the canals, cruising on colourful islands or diving into art and history, you can never get enough. You should create your itinerary to see as much as possible while visiting!
