The best things to do in Venice
Venice is one of the most beautiful and unique cities in the world. With its winding canals, picturesque bridges, and stunning architecture, it’s no wonder that Venice is a popular tourist destination. Whether you’re interested in art, history, culture, or just soaking up the atmosphere, there’s something for everyone in Venice. Here are some of the best things to do in this enchanting city.
Explore the Canals
One of the most iconic things to do in Venice is to explore the canals. Gondola rides are a popular way to see the city from the water, but you can also take a water taxi or vaporetto (water bus) to see the canals from a different perspective. Don’t miss the Grand Canal, the main waterway in Venice, which is lined with beautiful palaces and churches.
Visit St. Mark’s Basilica
St. Mark’s Basilica is one of the most famous landmarks in Venice. The striking Byzantine architecture and incredible mosaics make this church a must-see for any visitor. Be sure to check out the Pala d’Oro, a gold altarpiece that is covered in precious stones and enamels.
Visit the Gallerie dell’Accademia
The Gallerie dell’Accademia is one of the most important art museums in Venice. It houses an incredible collection of Venetian art, including works by Titian, Tintoretto, and Veronese. Be sure to check out the Gallerie dell’Accademia’s website to see which special exhibitions are on during your visit.
Take a Walk in the Jewish Ghetto
The Jewish Ghetto is one of the oldest Jewish communities in Europe. Today, it’s a fascinating area to explore, with synagogues, museums, and restaurants. Take a walk through the narrow streets and learn about the history of the Jewish people in Venice.
Visit the Rialto Bridge and Market
The Rialto Bridge is one of the most famous landmarks in Venice. It’s the oldest bridge across the Grand Canal and offers great views of the city. The Rialto Market is also a must-see. This colorful market is home to a wide variety of seafood, produce, and souvenirs.
Visit the Peggy Guggenheim Collection
The Peggy Guggenheim Collection is one of the most important modern art museums in Venice. It’s housed in the Palazzo Venier dei Leoni, the former home of Peggy Guggenheim, and features works by artists such as Jackson Pollock, Salvador DalÃ, and Mark Rothko.
Take a Day Trip to the Islands
Venice is made up of more than 100 islands, so be sure to take a day trip to explore some of them. Murano is famous for its glass-blowing, Burano for its colorful houses and lace-making, and Torcello for its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful mosaics in the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta.
Enjoy a Meal in a Trattoria
No trip to Venice would be complete without trying the local cuisine. There are plenty of great restaurants in Venice, but for a more authentic experience, head to a trattoria. These casual eateries serve traditional Venetian dishes such as pasta with fish, risotto with seafood and polenta.
Visit Palazzo Ducale
Palazzo Ducale, also known as the Doge’s Palace, is one of the most important historical buildings in Venice. It was the residence of the Doge, the leader of Venice, and it’s a great place to learn about the history and politics of the city. The palace is filled with beautiful artwork and frescoes, and the Bridge of Sighs, which connects the palace to the prison, is a popular spot for tourists.
Take a Walk on the Lido
The Lido is a long, narrow island that separates the Venetian Lagoon from the Adriatic Sea. It’s a great place to take a walk or bike ride and escape the crowds of the city. The Lido is also famous for its beaches and is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing in the summer.
Visit the Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari
The Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari, also known as the Frari, is one of the most important churches in Venice. It’s known for its beautiful Gothic architecture and impressive art collection, which includes works by Titian, Bellini, and Donatello.
Take a Tour of the Scuola Grande di San Rocco
The Scuola Grande di San Rocco is a beautiful building that was once the meeting place of a religious confraternity. The building is covered in stunning Tintoretto frescoes, which are considered some of the finest examples of Renaissance art in Venice. Guided tours of the Scuola Grande di San Rocco are available, which are a great way to learn about the history and art of the building.
Visit the Chiesa di San Giovanni e Paolo
The Chiesa di San Giovanni e Paolo, also known as the Dominican Church, is one of the largest churches in Venice. It’s known for its impressive size and beautiful art, including works by Titian and Bellini. The church also houses the tombs of 25 doges, making it an important historical site as well.
Overall, Venice is a city of endless possibilities and offers something to everyone, whether you’re interested in art, history, culture, or just soaking up the atmosphere. With its winding canals, picturesque bridges, and stunning architecture, a trip to Venice is a truly unforgettable experience.
