Things to do in Venice
Discover the best attractions and experiences Venice has to offer
Historic Monuments
Venice’s skyline is a tapestry of centuries of power and artistry. Explore iconic structures that define the city’s story.
Basilica di San Marco (St. Mark's Basilica)
An opulent church on St. Mark's Square famed for its gilded interior and stunning mosaics.
Palazzo Ducale (Doge's Palace)
Gothic grandeur that housed Venice’s rulers, connected to the canals via the Bridge of Sighs.
Ponte di Rialto (Rialto Bridge)
The oldest bridge across the Grand Canal with panoramic views and lively markets nearby.
Campanile di San Marco (St. Mark's Campanile)
A towering bell tower offering sweeping views of the lagoon and city.
Museums
Venice is home to world-class collections housed in palazzi and purpose-built museums. Here are must-see picks.
Peggy Guggenheim Collection
A premier collection of modern art set in a chic palazzo on the Grand Canal.
Gallerie dell'Accademia
Impressive pre-19th-century Venetian and Italian masterworks housed in a grand complex.
Museo Correr
Museum detailing Venice’s history, art, and daily life inside a historic palace near St. Mark's.
Ca’ Rezzonico – Museo del Settecento Veneziano
A baroque palazzo museum showcasing 18th-century Venetian life and art.
Religious Monuments
Venice’s sacred sites reflect its maritime, mercantile, and mystical heritage. Embrace the spiritual side of the city.
Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute
A grand baroque church perched at the Punta della Dogana with striking views.
Chiesa di San Giorgio Maggiore
A serene church on its own island with Renaissance art and lakefront views.
Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari
A vast church housing Titian masterpieces and a tranquil, spiritual atmosphere.
National & Theme Parks
Natural spaces around Venice offer escapes into water, wetlands, and woodlands just beyond the city vibe.
Riserva Naturale Laguna di Venezia
A protected lagoon area teeming with birds and waterways to explore.
Parco Naturale Regionale dei Colli Euganei
Rolling hills and forests near Venice for scenic walks and views.
Parco San Giuliano
Mestre’s expansive riverside park with open green spaces and lake views.
Neighborhoods
Each sestiere has its own character, vibes, and little-known corners waiting to be explored.
Cannaregio
A riverfront quarter with authentic bacari, canals, and the historic Jewish Ghetto.
Dorsoduro
Artistic heart with museums, canal-side promenades, and sunset views.
San Polo
Bustling bridges and markets; a great hub for food and lively streets.
Castello
Ventured streets and quiet squares, with access to the Arsenale and quiet canals.
Free Things to Do
Explore the city on foot and soak in views without spending a euro.
Walk the Grand Canal and views from Accademia Bridge
Stroll along Venice's main waterway and pause for photo-worthy views.
Visit Libreria Acqua Alta
A quirky, free bookshop with a wildly whimsical staircase and book-lined rooms.
Rialto Market stroll
Wander through stalls and watch the daily life of the city’s traders.
Zattere promenade at sunset
A long waterfront walk with views across the Giudecca and sunset colors.
Gastronomy
Venetian bites and regional specialties to savor when wandering the city’s back lanes and bacari.
Cicchetti at bacari
Small, savory bites served with a drink in intimate wine bars.
Sarde in saor
Sweet-and-sour marinated sardines, a classic Venetian starter.
Risotto al nero di seppia
Rich squid ink risotto with a distinctive ocean flavor.
Bigoli in salsa
Thick spaghetti-like pasta with anchovy or onion-based sauce.
Nightlife
From historic bars to opera houses, Venice keeps its evenings lively and atmospheric.
Bacari crawl
Sample several small bars for a diverse taste of Venice’s snacks and drinks.
Harry's Bar
Iconic bar known for refined cocktails and a storied history.
Teatro La Fenice evening performance
Experience world-class opera or ballet in a historic venue.
Entertainment
Make the most of Venice’s performance culture and cinematic-era vibes.
Gondola ride
A quintessential canal experience with scenic city views.
Teatro Goldoni tours or performances
Historic theatre with insightful tours and shows.
Murano glass demonstration on Murano island
Witness glassmakers craft luminous pieces in real time.
Sports
Active ways to experience the water and coast around Venice.
Kayaking in the Venetian Lagoon
Paddle through calm waters and see the city from a new angle.
Cycling around Lido di Venezia
Pedal along the seafront and enjoy wide-open spaces.
Beach time on Lido di Venezia
Relax on the sandy shoreline with views of the Adriatic.
Off the Track
Dig a little deeper with lesser-known islands and hidden corners.
Burano Island (colorful houses and lace shops)
Vibrant facades line the canals; a photographer’s favorite.
Torcello Island and Santa Maria Assunta cathedral
Ancient and peaceful island with early mosaics and slower pace.
Scala Contarini del Bovolo staircase
A hidden spiral staircase offering unique city views.
Isola di Mazzorbo
Quaint island nearby, known for wineries and relaxed charm.