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13 Outstanding Things to do in Venice – how many you know?

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    If you have done the things to do in Italy, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Venice.

    Step into the enchanting city of Venice and immerse yourself in a world of gondolas gliding down winding waterways, architectural gems emerging from the mist, and vibrant culture bursting from every corner.

    Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Venice:

    1. Doge’s Palace

    Doge’s Palace

    A stunning Gothic-style palace located in St. Mark’s Square in the heart of Venice.

    What to see or do: Explore the lavish interiors adorned with magnificent artwork, stuccos, and frescoes that will transport you to the golden era of Venice’s political power.

    Visit the Doge’s apartments, the Hall of the Great Council, the Armory, and the prison cells connected by the iconic Bridge of Sighs where prisoners used to get a last glimpse of the outside world before being incarcerated.

    Don’t miss: The stunning artistic masterpieces by the great masters such as Tintoretto, Veronese, and Tiepolo that decorate the ceilings and walls of the palace.

    Also, don’t forget to throw a coin through the hole in the courtyard’s well grille for good luck.

    Insider travel tips: Book your tickets online in advance to avoid long queues. Get an audio guide for a more immersive experience and a better understanding of the palace’s history.

    The palace can get crowded, so go early in the morning or in the late afternoon to beat the crowds.

    2. Rialto Bridge

    Rialto Bridge

    The Rialto Bridge is one of Venice’s most famous landmarks and is known for its stunning panoramic views of the Grand Canal.

    What to see or do: Enjoy a leisurely stroll across the bridge and take in the beautiful views of the Grand Canal. Be sure to stop and check out the various shops selling local souvenirs, jewelry, and glassware.

    Don’t miss: Don’t miss out on the opportunity to get a close-up view of the bridge and the canal by taking a gondola ride under the bridge.

    This is a romantic and unique way to experience the beauty of Venice.

    Insider travel tips: To skip the crowds, visit the bridge early in the morning or late in the evening.

    If you are interested in photography, the best time to visit is during the late afternoon or sunset when the lighting is perfect for capturing stunning photos of the bridge.

    Watch out for pickpockets, as this is a busy area with lots of tourists.

    3. Grand Canal

    Grand Canal

    The Grand Canal is the main waterway in Venice that winds through the city.

    It is considered one of the most beautiful and romantic canals in the world and is a must-see attraction in Venice.

    What to see or do: Take a gondola or water bus ride along the canal to see the stunning Venetian architecture and historic buildings. Admire the palaces that line the canal which date back to the 13th century.

    Don’t miss: Don’t miss the Rialto Bridge which is the oldest and most famous bridge that crosses the Grand Canal.

    Also, make sure to visit the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute which is a magnificent baroque church that sits at the entrance of the canal.

    Insider travel tips: To avoid the crowds and get the best views, take a water taxi at sunset.

    You can also explore the smaller canals that branch off from the Grand Canal to see the lesser-known parts of Venice.

    4. Bridge of Sighs

    Bridge of Sighs

    The Bridge of Sighs is an iconic landmark in Venice, Italy. It is a bridge made of limestone that connects the Doge’s Palace with the New Prison.

    What to see or do: See the stunning architecture and take a boat tour under the bridge for a unique perspective.

    Don’t miss: The view from the top of the bridge, where you can see the beautiful city of Venice.

    Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and take a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of the bridge.

    5. Ca’ d’Oro

    Ca’ d’Oro

    Ca’ d’Oro is an iconic palace-turned-museum located on the Grand Canal in Venice, Italy.

    What to see or do: Visitors can admire the stunning Gothic architecture, explore the various rooms and exhibits, and take in breathtaking views of the canal from the rooftop terrace.

    The museum houses a collection of Renaissance and Baroque art, including works by Titian, Tintoretto, and Giovanni Bellini.

    Don’t miss: The highlight of Ca’ d’Oro is the opulent Golden Staircase, which features intricate marble and gold leaf decorations.

    The Sala del Doge, which was originally the palace’s reception hall, is another must-see, with its soaring ceilings and ornate decorations.

    Insider travel tips: It’s best to arrive early in the day to avoid crowds.

    6. Peggy Guggenheim Collection

    Peggy Guggenheim Collection. pic by Detlef Schobert. by-nd 2.0

    Peggy Guggenheim Collection is a modern art museum located in the Palazzo Venier dei Leoni in Venice, showcasing the personal art collection of Peggy Guggenheim.

    What to see or do: Admire a large collection of 20th-century modern art, including works by artists such as Picasso, Ernst, and Dalí. The museum also features temporary exhibitions, a sculpture garden, and the collector’s bedrooms decorated with surrealist art.

    Don’t miss: Viewing Jackson Pollock’s masterpiece “Alchemy,” as well as other notable works such as “The Madonna” by Kandinsky and “Picasso on the beach” by Picasso.

    Insider travel tips: Save time and money by purchasing tickets online in advance. Visit during the off-season to avoid crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience with the art.

    Finally, be sure to take a stroll through the museum’s tranquil sculpture garden overlooking the Grand Canal.

    7. Saint Mark’s Square

    Saint Mark’s Square

    A public square in the heart of Venice, named after the nearby Saint Mark’s Basilica.

    What to see or do: Admire the beautiful architecture of Saint Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace. Take a gondola ride through the canals or enjoy a coffee at one of the outdoor cafes.

    Don’t miss: Witnessing the pigeons being fed in the square – a popular activity for both tourists and locals.

    Insider travel tips: Visit the square early in the morning to avoid the crowds and get a more peaceful experience.

    If you plan on entering the basilica, make sure you dress appropriately (no shorts or bare shoulders) and arrive early to avoid long lines.

    8. Murano Island

    Murano Island

    A small island in the Venetian Lagoon, famous for its glassmaking industry.

    What to see or do: Visit one of the many glass factories and watch a glassblower create intricate works of art. Check out the Murano Glass Museum for a deeper understanding of the history and techniques used in glassmaking.

    Wander around the island’s quaint streets and piazzas, admiring the colorful houses and hidden canals.

    Don’t miss: The Chiesa di Santa Maria e San Donato, an ancient church with beautiful Byzantine mosaics and a precious stone altar.

    Insider travel tips: Stay on the island overnight to experience its quiet charm after the day-trippers depart.

    During the summer, the island can get hot and crowded, so plan your visit in the early morning or late afternoon for a more enjoyable experience.

    Be cautious of cheap glass souvenirs, as they may not be authentic Murano glass.

    9. San Giorgio Maggiore

    San Giorgio Maggiore

    San Giorgio Maggiore is a beautiful island located in Venice’s lagoon, just a short vaporetto ride away from St. Mark’s Square.

    What to see or do: Visit the San Giorgio Maggiore Church, designed by renowned architect Andrea Palladio, admire the stunning panoramic views from the bell tower, take a stroll through the beautiful gardens, and explore the contemporary art exhibitions at the Cini Foundation.

    Don’t miss: Climbing to the top of the bell tower for a breathtaking view of Venice’s skyline and the surrounding lagoon.

    Insider travel tips: Avoid the crowds by visiting early in the morning or later in the evening.

    Take a picnic to enjoy in the gardens or on the waterfront, and consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the history and architecture of the island.

    10. Torre dell’Orologio

    Torre dell’Orologio

    A historic clock tower in the heart of Venice.

    What to see or do: Admire the intricate clock face, which features zodiac signs and the phases of the moon. Watch the two bronze figures at the top of the tower strike the bell every hour.

    Don’t miss: The stunning views of the city from the top of the tower.

    Insider travel tips: Buy tickets in advance to avoid long lines. Visit the tower early in the morning to beat the crowds.

    Combine a visit to the Torre dell’Orologio with a stroll through the nearby Piazza San Marco.

    11. Scuola Grande di San Rocco

    Scuola Grande di San Rocco. pic by Dimitris Graffin. by 2.0

    A 16th-century confraternity building in Venice, famous for its impressive collection of Tintoretto paintings.

    What to see or do: Admire the stunning architecture and impressive artwork on display, from the ornate wooden ceilings to the intricate marble floors and walls.

    The highlight of your visit will undoubtedly be the Tintoretto paintings – there are over 50 of them!

    Don’t miss: The upper floor of the building, which is home to the Sala dell’Albergo and the Sala Superiore.

    These rooms are adorned with stunning frescoes and paintings by Tintoretto, and are some of the most impressive examples of Venetian Renaissance art you will ever see.

    Insider travel tips: Visit early to avoid the crowds, and if possible, hire a tour guide to get the most out of your visit.

    Also, be prepared to spend a couple of hours in the Scuola Grande di San Rocco – there is simply too much to see to rush your visit.

    Finally, don’t forget to bring your camera – this is a truly memorable experience that you will want to capture for posterity!

    12. Santa Maria della Salute

    Santa Maria della Salute

    A breathtaking Baroque church in Venice, Italy built in the 17th century.

    What to see or do: Marvel at its stunning architecture, visit the inside of the church, and take in the stunning views of the Grand Canal from outside.

    Don’t miss: The high altar and the paintings by Tintoretto and Titian inside the church.

    Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds. Wear comfortable shoes as there are many stairs to climb inside the church.

    Combine your visit with a stroll along the Zattere, a picturesque promenade nearby.

    13. Palazzo Grassi

    Palazzo Grassi. pic by TheCreativePenn. by-nc 2.0

    Palazzo Grassi is an imposing historic palace in Venice, Italy, that now serves as a modern art museum.

    What to see or do: The museum offers a rotating selection of contemporary art exhibitions, including works by internationally acclaimed artists. Visitors can also explore the stunning architecture of the palazzo, which dates back to the 18th century.

    Don’t miss: One of the main highlights of a visit to Palazzo Grassi is the collection of works by the legendary artist and sculptor Damien Hirst, which is on permanent display.

    Be sure to also check out the rooftop terrace, which offers stunning views of the city.

    Insider travel tips: – Book your tickets online in advance to avoid long lines at the entrance.

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