Known as the “City of Water” amongst many other nicknames, the enchanting city of Venice captivates first-time and returning visitors to roam its streets and find everything from its main landmarks to its local corners.
Start your adventures discovering the treasures inside Saint Mark’s Basilica and spend a few moments at Piazza San Marco for a little people-watching. Secure your seats for a dreamy gondola ride, winding your way through the romantic waterways, appreciating the city’s unique architecture.
Museum and art lovers, visit the Peggy Guggenheim Collection filled with pieces of 20th-century art from all corners of the world, and the fascinating Doge’s Palace. For epic views of the city, climb to the tops of Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo!
Just as there are the popular tourist attractions in Venice to explore, there are also the quiet, local gems to discover. Kick things off by visiting the unique Libreria Acqua Alta, and taking a quiet stroll through the picturesque Giardini Papadopoli Park.
And that’s just the start! Let’s get to it and see all the best things to do in Venice!
1 – Saint Mark’s Basilica
Admire the Byzantine exterior architecture and explore the interiors of the famous Saint Mark’s Basilica, the main cathedral of Venice, located on the famous Piazza San Marco (Saint Mark’s Square).
Dating back to the 9th century, the basilica offers a historic visit rich with the amazing sight of golden mosaics, and artifacts that went missing in Alexandria, Egypt, and then were found and kept at Saint Mark’s Basilica. It’s believed that’s one of the reasons why the church was built in the first place.
Learn more about the impressive history of the church, while listening to a few legends and stories of the events that took place on a St. Mark’s Basilica tour! With your entry ticket, you may get access to the towering 98.6 meter-high Saint Mark’s campanile (bell tower) and get wide views of the city, and its famous canals.
2 – Doge’s Palace
Also known as Piazza Ducale, Doge’s Palace was the residence of the Doge of Venice, who reigned between 726-1797.
The remarkable Gothic masterpiece sits centrally in Piazza San Marcos and is a prime example of a mix of architectural styles, from Renaissance to Venetian Gothic, and modifications to expand the palace to fit administrative and governmental needs, including a prison!
With so much to see inside the palace, from the living quarters of the Doge of Venice, including the luxurious decor and gold details of the Venice Golden Age, and Renaissance-style artwork, to crossing the Bridge of Sighs into the former prison, be sure to book a Doge’s Palace tour with your tickets to see it all.
To ensure you get the best deal, with skip-the-line access, make sure to head to our complete guide for Doge’s Palace Skip-The-Line Tickets.
3 – Gondola Ride
Don’t leave the “City of Water” without a picturesque gondola ride through the scenic canals, one of the most romantic things to do in Venice for couples!
Whether you think it’s cliche, or it’s your dream to ride a gondola through Venice, a magical experience awaits you as you embark on the 30-minute gondola ride, carrying 4-5 other passengers. As you start cruising, you’ll learn the history of the gondola as a means of transportation in Venetian history, from how they are made, to what they use to transport, and other interesting stories!
As expensive as gondola rides can be, we want to make sure that you get the best deal on the dream experience, so make sure to check out our Gondola rides in Venice recommendations to score the best deal for your budget!
Not feeling the gondola rides? Learn more about the best Venice boat tours to explore the city’s magical waterways!
4 – La Fenice Theatre
Listen to an opera or a classical concert at the historic La Fenice Theatre, one of Italy’s premier concert halls dating back to 1792, and a largely important theater in the world of opera.
After two devastating fires that wiped out the first few theaters, La Fenice Theater was later built as a gift from the wealthy Noble Society of Scenographers, as a way to revive the city’s cultural spirit.
With multiple shows throughout the year, one of the theater’s main productions is its New Year Concert, which is annually broadcasted throughout Europe. Check their website to see what upcoming shows are on the calendar, and be sure to book your tickets ahead of time.
Pro tip: when planning your attire for an event, make sure to check the specified dress code for the show you’re attending. Some require formal wear while others accept casual dress.
5 – Bridge of Sighs
The Bridge of Sighs has to be one of the most beautiful corners of Venice, and by default, one of the most Instagrammable spots. With its pristine white limestone appearance and stone bar-crossed windows, you’d never know the bridge was used for prisoners!
Opened in 1603, and connecting the interrogation rooms at Doge’s Palace to the new prison, this bridge is said to be named after a legend. The legend says that the bridge was the path that prisoners took and where they’d get their last look at the world. As they crossed, they expressed a sigh.
Some of the most famous prisoners that crossed the bridge were Giacomo Casanova and Galileo Galilei.
Book a tour of the Doge’s Palace, walk through the bridge yourself, and see the same, last few glimpses of Venetian beauty and life, just as the prisoners did centuries ago.
6 – Peggy Guggenheim Collection
Art lovers, visit the impressive art collection at the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, one of the best museums in Venice that houses the private and life-long collection of the American art collector, Peggy Guggenheim.
The Peggy Guggenheim Collection is known as one of the best tourist attractions in Venice, as it consists of some of the best pieces of 20th-century art, from Picasso to Kandinsky, and many more artists and timeless pieces!
Wander through the equally ornate museum, which is housed inside a grand palace that Peggy herself lived in at one point. The palace still maintains a sense of home and is beautifully located right beside the Grand Canal.
Walk through or book a tour of the different exhibits, and pay attention specifically to the Japanese collections and the temporary exhibits that rotate a focus on different artists.
7 – Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo
Climb the most popular staircase in Venice at the Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo, a 28-meter high spiral staircase adorned with beautiful arches and columns, leading up to a beautiful viewing platform to take in the red roofs of Venice from above!
Bovolo, which means snail, and in this case, the shape of the snail’s shell is used to describe and name the staircase. The staircase and viewpoint originated in the 19th century when a German astronomer staying at the hotel inside the Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo, used his telescope from the top of the tower, which started to popularize the location for its viewpoints.
Today, you can climb the magical staircase, taking in the mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Byzantine architectural styles, until reaching the top to see all of Venice and the canals at your feet.
The last entry is at 5:30 PM.
8 – Leonardo Da Vinci Museum
Learn about the great Leonardo Da Vinci and his incredible contributions to the science and art world at the Leonardo Da Vinci Museum.
Take a peek at the impressive pieces of works and inventions that helped jump-start some of the inventions we use in today’s world, from helicopters to solar power, cars, and much more!
Learn about the work and genius behind some of Da Vinci’s best works and inventions, from the engineering, to the physics, and functionality of these machines that changed the world to what it is today. Don’t forget to take a look through the paintings and drawings exhibits, showcasing the sketches and blueprints for some of Da Vinci’s machinery, as well as the Vitruvian Man.
Lastly, check out the experimental stations, where you’ll get a live masterclass on the creation of some of Da Vinci’s inventions, and even try some yourself!
9 – Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari
Commonly known as the Frari, the Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari is one of the largest churches in Venice, dedicated to the Assumption of Mary, and located in the San Polo district.
Though from the outside, the basilica may not look too ornate and detailed, as some of the other architecturally stunning basilicas in Venice, upon entering, you’ll see that the interiors have more than a few details to see, from the incredible amounts of paintings, high ceilings, carvings, and religious relics.
Inside, seek out the painting of the Assumption by Titian, on the altar, and stop by to see the mausoleum of Antonio Casanova, recognizable for its large sculptures.
The church is free to enter, however, if you don’t have time to stop by, you’ll see the famed basilica on a walking tour in Venice, gaining insight from your tour guide.
Read more: Dive into our recommended best walking tours in Venice and experience the allure of this unique city.
10 – Libreria Acqua Alta
Browse the many books in the vintage and beautiful Libreria Acqua Alta, a popular bookstore not only in Venice but in the world as it’s been named repeatedly by past visitors as one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world.
Set alongside a canal, and therefore susceptible to constant flooding, the famed bookstore has the books stacked up in waterproof bins a few inches off the floor to prevent any sort of book disasters during its rainy seasons in October and November.
Though unfortunately throughout time, some books have been ruined in past floods, those books are still utilized and have been converted into a staircase that people can climb onto and view the canal and gondolas pass by.
Located in the Castello district, stop by the Libreria Acqua Alta, get your selfie, and support the local business by purchasing a book!
11 – Accademia Gallery
Step into the critically-acclaimed Accademia Gallery, one of the most well-known art galleries in Venice that houses numerous types of Venetian paintings, that range between the 14th century to the 19th century.
Divided into 3 floors, the Accademia Gallery hosts the largest collection of Venetian art and tells the story of the city, Northern Italy’s most famous events, and political situations. Come by, and see art by the famous Titian, Tintoretto, and Veronese, amongst more! Located on the southern bank of the Canale Grande, the gallery is divided into three buildings.
When visiting don’t miss out on the Leonardo da Vinci exhibits, showcasing his contribution to the world of art and science during the Renaissance with his famous depiction of man in the “Vitruvian Man”.
12 – Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute
One of the most photographed basilicas in Venice has to be the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute, which was built in 1687, to commemorate the end of the plague in 1631.
A beautiful church with a name that translates to Saint Mary of Health, is memorable due to the large dome seen from any part of the city. The Basilica houses in its interiors a few beautiful pieces of art by Tintoretto and Titian, including the painting “Marriage at Cana” by Tintoretto and “The Descent of the Holy Spirit” by Titian.
If you’re visiting on November 21st, make sure to attend the city-wide Festa della Madonna della Salute, where locals visit the Basilica to salute the Saint Mary of Health in the Basilica, remembering the terrible plague.
The basilica is open and free to enter, however, long lines may form, so come early!
13 – Classical Music Concert
Check out the talented Interpreti Veneziani, and indulge in the musical stylings of Baroque-style music that takes place within the walls of the historic 17th-century Church of San Vidal. Listen to famous pieces by Mozart, Bach, and Vivaldi, performed in such a historic setting with wonderful acoustics.
Have a “Phantom of the Opera” moment when you experience the Traveling Opera within the Palazzo Barbarigo Minotto, one of the historical buildings on the Grand Canal. The name “traveling” opera comes from the fact that the opera group holds their show in different rooms throughout the palace depending on the show.
Explore the string music talents of the l Musici Veneziani, in a concert held at the stunning Scuola Grande di San Teodoro! Listen to a beautiful rendition of Vivaldi’s “Four Seasons” amongst other classical songs.
14 – Prisons Palace
Visit the city’s main prison located at Doge’s Palace, after it was the residence of the leader of Venice.
Learn about the prison’s most famous inmates, the crimes for which they were admitted into the prison, and the petty reasons why innocent people could end up in jail!
See the differences between the Piombi and Pozzi prisons inside the Doge’s Palace, and explore the Hall of the Compass. Here, learn about the details of the last judgment and even hear about one of the prison’s most famous escapes in 1756, by the famous Casanova when he was locked inside the Piombi Prison, one of the oldest prisons inside the Doge’s Palace.
Make sure to book your tickets and sign up for a tour to get the details behind Casanova’s grand escape, which would launch him into worldwide fame in years to come!
15 – Museo di Storia Naturale di Venezia
Engage with the mysteries of natural history and specific marine animals that live in the picturesque lagoon around Venice at the Museo di Storia Naturale di Venezia.
Explore the newly re-opened museum, and dive into the exhibits that cover over 700 million years of natural history in Venice, divided up by zoological, botanical, fossils, microbes, and much more. Check out the special exhibits on the skeletons of whales and other sea animals, and even go as far back as the ancient dinosaurs that roamed Venice.
The museum itself is housed at the Fontego dei Turchi palace which was once the residence of the wealthy Pesaro family back in the 13th century and proves to be one of the most ornate buildings near the canal.
General admission to the natural museum starts at 11 euros per adult, with discounts available for students and other visitors.
16 – Scuola Grande di San Rocco
Navigate the interiors of the Scuola Grande di San Rocco, a building dating back to 1478 that houses some of the most famous paintings by Tintoretto and also houses the confraternity of San Rocco, who is admired for his protection against the plague.
Inside, you’ll discover the impressive walls and ceilings painted by Tintoretto, which took him over 20 years to finalize, as well as continue to see 3 halls that are open to the public within the 2-story building.
Some may say that the Scuola Grande di San Rocco is to Venice as the Sistine Chapel is to Rome, due to its incredible artwork within its walls, and on the walls themselves. Locals recommend if you’re not a huge art fan visit the Scuola, as there is enough art to engage your senses but not overwhelm you.
General admission starts at 10 euros.
17 – Correr Museum
Probe more into the intricate Venetian culture at Correr Museum, located in the stunning St. Mark’s Square, and see some more remarkable pieces of artwork, from “Two Venetian Ladies” to “Dead Christ Supported by Two Angels” and the sculpture of “Orfeo”.
Considered one of the more popular culture and art museums in Venice, explore the different items inside the museum, from sculptures, paintings, antique items, and many more items rescued throughout time.
Admire the stunning frescoes and stuccos throughout the museum, properly displaying Venetian Baroque style art, and don’t miss out on the exhibit on Venetian costumes, further amplifying your knowledge of Venetian culture when it came to tradition and luxurious society. So make sure to book your Correr Museum tour to gain more cultural insight!
The original collection was started by Teodoro Correr, an avid art collector, and later founder of the famed museum.
18 – San Giorgio Maggiore
Take a ferry to the nearby island of San Giorgio Maggiore, and enjoy roaming its small streets and main landmarks, including climbing atop Campanile di San Giorgio (bell tower) to get exquisite views of Venice and the lagoon.
Walk around the historic Chiesa di San Giorgio Maggiore church, and admire the facade and interiors of the church, constructed completely by Italian Renaissance architecture Andre Palladio. Walk through the all-white facade of the church and explore its white marble interiors and historic engravings.
Entry to the San Giorgio Maggiore church is free, however, to climb up to the bell tower it is 8 euros per person. Many past visitors recommend climbing to the top for impressive views and the perfect photo op of Venice.
To get to San Giorgio Maggiore, take a speed boat or Vaporetto and arrive in 45 minutes.
19 – Giorgio Cini Foundation
Located on the island of San Giorgio Maggiore, step into the Giorgio Cini Foundation, a non-profit educational resource that houses all sorts of texts, literature, and resources throughout various fields of study from drama to history.
The beautiful, and modern space is a unique area to browse through and see a few of the resources inside, or simply take a peek in, and sit in one of the tables and chairs in between your sightseeing.
The Giorgio Cini Foundation also hosts several cultural events and conferences, some of which are free of charge, and cover interesting topics!
Inside the resource center is the Stanza del Vetro workspace, which creates some of the most impressive pieces of glasswork in the world.
20 – Islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello
Wander off for the day to explore the beautiful islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello, each offering its charm, and beauty to get lost in.
Step into the culture and traditions of Murano, specifically with glass-making and crafts made with artisanal tradition. Check out the Museo del Vetro (glass museum) to learn the history of this craft, and of course, bring a glass-made gift back home.
Fall in love with the bright colors of the buildings at Burano, where the local tradition is lace work. Take a walking tour of the island, walk through small alleyways, and then make your way to the Lace Museum to learn more about this tradition.
Torcello offers a quieter vibe than the other islands, yet still plan a visit to the Santa Maria Assunta church, the oldest building on the Venetian Lagoon, with a bell tower offering impressive views.
21 – Jewish Ghetto
Explore the Jewish Ghetto in Venice, dating back to 1516, which at the time, was the home of around 923 Jewish people.
The Jewish Ghetto in Venice was one of the first ones in the world alongside the ones in Germany, yet the Jewish Ghetto in Venice significantly influenced the city’s culture.
Doused in centuries of history, book an informative Jewish Ghetto tour, to learn about the influence of the Jewish population in Venice, from the origins of the word “Ghetto” coming from Venice, to the fact that ⅓ of Hebrew books printed in Europe were printed in Venice, and more!
On your tour, you’ll explore the synagogues, and the exterior of the Jewish Museum and learn about how the Jewish Ghetto transformed from a humble space to a bustling quarter where Jewish people from all over Europe migrated to at points!
22 – Ca’ Pesaro Museum
Browse through 19th and 20th-century art pieces at the Ca’Pesaro Museum, located near the Grand Canal, specifically pieces created by Bambini, Pittoni, Trevisani, and a few more notable Italian artists!
Analyze one of the most famous pieces inside by Tiepolo called “The Triumph of Zephyr and Flora” and admire the other numerous international pieces, from artists like Kandinsky, Klee, and Klimt, specifically their piece “Judith ll”.
The museum is 3 floors, and on its 3rd floor, is where you can find pieces of Asian art, specifically Chinese and Japanese. Step inside the Photographic Library, and explore over 6,000 films!
Located inside the Ca’ Pesaro Palace, the former home of the Pesaro family, enjoy walking through the ornate space filled with art. Tickets to the museum start at $13 USD.
23 – Palazzo Rezzonico
Wander throughout the Palazzo Rezzonico also known as the Ca’ Rezzonico, an art museum located on the Grand Canal, featuring paintings created by Venetian artists from the 18th-century works by Francesco Guardi and Giambattista Tiepolo.
Enter the palace, and admire the amazing golden tones of the grand chandeliers hanging from the incredibly stylized ceiling with carved details. Divided into 3 floors, explore the first floor which displays frescos, sculptures, and other collections of the 18th century.
The second floor is where you can find pieces by Italian artists Canaletto and Longhi, housed within the extraordinary ballroom-style rooms. Lastly, the third floor continues with pieces by Martini and a few pottery pieces.
General admission tickets for the museum start at 11 euros.
24 – Workshops
Get your hands dirty inside a Carnival Mask workshop class where you’ll get the choice to take either a production class or a mask decorating class (or both!). When you book a production class, you’ll learn the art of making paper mache and other materials traditional to mask making.
When you book the mask decorating class, you’ll get to go straight to adorning your face mask in the traditional Venetian ways, while learning from your instructor the historical use of Venetian masks in high society and social events.
Learn the artisanal craft of glassworking in a workshop, where you’ll get to practice this 1,000-year-old tradition with specialized experts. Learn how to work with molten glass, and how to shape it into different figures, using special techniques used throughout the years in Venice.
In the end, take home your homemade souvenirs made with love in Venice!
25 – Cannaregio District
Cross the streets of the picturesque Cannaregio District, one of the trendiest and liveliest districts in Venice to explore, by day and night!
Explore the best of all there is to do from the Colour Library, a stunning collection of mosaic glass to walking through the narrowest street in Venice, Calle Varisco, and of course crossing the magical bridges around the districts many waterways.
Looking for some souvenir shops for your friends back home? Check out Strada Nuova for handmade jewelry and Italian-brand items!
To see it all, book a Cannaregio District tour, and look through the different tours offering walks through the district, either by day or by night! Enjoy a delicious food tour through Cannaregio and try some local bites like fritoìn. Or visit by night and embark on a spooky walk on a 2-hour ghost tour!
Cannaregio tours start at $30 USD.
26 – Santa Maria dei Miracoli
Also located within the Cannaregio district is the historical Santa Maria dei Miracoli, which is translated to Saint Mary of Miracles. This church is known as “The Marble Church” for its amazing facade made out of polychrome marble and Venetian Renaissance-style architecture.
Though the church is small, it was built in the 15th century to house the miraculous image of the Virgin Mary and Child, which was painted by a famous painter at the request of the wealthy Francesco Amadi.
It was quickly then discovered that the holy image was miraculous, as many claimed that visiting the image was the reason for their recuperation back to health, and other miraculous activities, starting in 1480.
Step inside, and allow your eyes to travel through the extreme details of the church, from ceiling to floor, constructed by Pietro Lombardo, and take a look at the sculptures and paintings.
27 – Hop on and hop off tours
Let yourself relax and still keep exploring the charm of Venice on an enjoyable hop-on hop-off tour!
You may have done a hop-on hop-off tour in other cities on a bus, but in Venice, the tour takes place on a boat! When you book a hop-on hop-off tour, you’ll get to explore the city through its waterways, comfortably taking in the views of the city, and its major landmarks like Doge’s Palace the Accademia Gallery, through the Grand Canal!
While on your tour, you’ll listen to an audio guide sharing historical insight on the landmarks, while also learning cultural tips that you won’t want to miss out on.
Go off through the lagoon and stop at the nearby islands for a little while, before hopping on again, exploring other islands, or returning to Venice. Hop-on hop-off tickets are valid between 24-48 hours.
28 – Rialto Market
Visit the bustling Rialto Market, and pick up some snacks as you people watch the locals interact with each other, selling and buying their groceries! Located beside the Grand Canal, the Rialto Market offers amazing fresh produce, and fresh seafood mainly.
If you’re lucky, you’ll see the moment when the fisherman brings his fresh seafood to sell, yelling out to those who will buy from him.
Though the market is open every day, try visiting on Saturday mornings, as that is when the locals do most of their grocery shopping at the market. The later it gets in the day, the more tourists start to flock to the market.
Sign up for a food tour in Venice, explore all there is to see and try at the market, with the guidance of a local foodie! Learn about staple Italian ingredients, sample snacks, and learn traditional recipes!
29 – Giardini Papadopoli
Explore the beautiful Giardini Papadopoli, a charming park of 8,800 square meters that offers a botanical garden, children’s play areas, and shaded walking trails, located in the Santa Croce district.
Although the park is not huge, the Giardini Padaopoli is a wonderful place to stretch your legs for a bit, relax with a small picnic, or come by and sit with a book to read. The park is perfectly tended to, with small gardens, and perfectly trimmed bushes.
Not known by many tourists, you can rest assured that most of those who visit the park are locals, which makes it a perfect activity and place to visit to immerse yourself in local culture! And even then, depending on when you visit, you may even have the park to yourself!
You can find Giardini Papadopoli near Grand Canal and Rio Novo.
30 – Palazzo Grassi
Browse through the modern art inside the grand Palazzo Grassi, also known as the Palazzo Grassi-Stucky, that most recently holds the grand art collection from French businessman and billionaire, François Pinault.
Before its use today, the Palazzo Grassi dates back to 1748 and 1772, when it was first built and designed, and housed some beautiful frescoes by Alessandro Longhi. Though it never really belonged to anyone specifically, the palazzo was owned by many wealthy and noble families throughout time, and at one point, it was even the International Centre of Arts and Costume.
Purchased by the French billionaire in 2009, the palazzo now houses numerous modern pieces of art, both Italian and international, and hosts numerous art events within its grand walls.
Make sure to check the museum’s website to see the upcoming shows and art exhibits on rotation, focusing on different forms of art.
31 – Punta della Dogana
Another art space owned by the French businessman and billionaire, François Pinault, the Punta della Dogana is known most as being the building located where the Grand Canal meets with Giudecca Canal, and it’s a triangle shape.
As it was owned by different people and institutions at different times, the building was empty and not in use by the time it was purchased in 2009. Today, the space houses the Pinault art collection, and interesting art exhibitions including the “Mapping the Studio: Artists from the François Pinault Collection”.
Step inside and admire the art on the walls, as much as the interior of the palace, which was completely redone by a Japanese architect, who added a modern touch while honoring the building’s history including items like a floating staircase, and cut-out windows onto the passing ships on the canal.
Entry starts at 15 euros.
32 – Venetian Arsenal
Visit the Venetian Arsenal, a famous and former shipyard where the majority of Venice’s ships and boats were built between the Middle Ages and the early modern era.
Known as one of the very first formal shipyards of its kind in the early 12th century, the location of Venetian Arsenal was built strategically in the city’s northern region, so that it would be protected from potential enemy attacks, while also being accessible to receive wood from nearby forests.
The main hub of the Venetian naval industry began and flourished here, and so were the majority of the ships built for Turkey, during their domination of the Aegean Sea, which may have a connection with the name Arsenal, which in Turkey means “place of production”.
Though no organized tours are offered currently, visitors may come in and explore the historical grounds, and learn from the plaques.
33 – Cicchetti veneziani
Eat like a local with the Venetian tradition of Cicchetti Veneziani! Similar to a Spanish tapa, a Cicchetti is a small snack or food portion served alongside a glass of housemade wine (Ombra) at a traditional style taven called a bàcari.
Typically enjoyed before dinner, a Cicchetti in Venetian culture is a way to meet with friends at a bàcari, any day of the week whether they are coming off work, or if it’s the weekend and they want to meet up for a night out.
Almost always, the Cicchetti, which means small in Latin, usually consists of small plates of meat such as the classic Venetian liver, or fish dishes, such as marinated anchovies, creamed salted cod on toasted bread, and many more varieties.
To experience for yourself this culinary tradition, book a Cicchetti tour, and hit the streets to find the best bàcari!
34 – Kayaking tours
See Venice best through its canals, and wind your way around on a kayaking tour! Roam the narrow canal ways, paddle under the scenic bridges, and gain a whole new viewpoint of the city from the water.
Go for a guided kayaking tour in Venice, and explore the city’s stunning lagoon, on a sunset kayaking tour! Glance at the gorgeous city from afar, and peek at the islands nearby! Book a kayak tour and move to the natural side of Vence towards the Stagnone Nature Reserve!
If you want to see the city in a different light, book a night kayak tour in Venice, and visit some of the less visited canals, as you learn about the local history from your guide. If you’re traveling with your partner, this tour will be perfect to have a romantic moment on the waters of Venice!
35 – Dorsoduro District
Absorb the youthful spirit of the Dorsoduro District, mainly attracting a younger crowd for its amazing and low-cost food scene, amazing nightlife, and a few notable and historical sights and art collections to explore.
Also known as the University District, the Dorsoduro District is jam-packed with action happening, any time of the day! Other than its young crowds and restaurants, Dorsoduro also houses the Accademia Galleries and the Peggy Guggenheim Collection. The church Santa Maria della Salute and the picturesque corner of Punta della Dogana are also famous points of interest in the district!
Book a Dorsduro District tour and explore all of its hidden corners, passing by the district’s trendies areas and then its historic sights, including the Squero di San Trovaso, the 17th-century factory that produces the city’s gondolas.
Dorsduro district tours start at $20 USD, with even a few free tours available!
36 – Basilica dei Santi Giovanni e Paolo
Walk into the largest basilica in Venice, the Basilica dei Santi Giovanni e Paolo, also known as the Basilica of Saint John and Paul.
Located on the eastern side of the island, the basilica dons a special Gothic-style architecture, on the outside, which took almost a century to complete, and on the inside, includes a special collection of art to see.
Explore the works of Italian artists, Giovanni Bellini, Paolo Veronese, and Giovanni Battista Piazzetta, in specific, look for the “Madonna della Pace” by Paolo Veronese and the “Cornotation of the Virgin” by Giovanni Battista. See the tombs of the 27 doges, in specific, the tombs of Alvise Mocenigo and Pietro Mocenigo, who were 2 important Venetians.
Because of the tombs inside the church, the basilica is also known as “The Pantheon of Venice” so make sure to stop by, and enter, free of charge.
37 – Cabaret show
Finalize your evening in Venice with a spectacular cabaret show, as you wine and dine watching the talented actors and singers take center stage in a colorful performance!
Enjoy a Venetian-style cabaret, with all the glitz, glamour, and Venetian masks, accompanied by live music, and a delicious Italian dinner. Before the show gets started, you’ll be welcomed with a cocktail to get settled in, and then, you’ll start to enjoy your five-course meal catering to all sorts of diets, from vegetarians to meat eaters.
Relish the spectacular show come alive in full color, inside the baroque-style theater, lasting a total of 4 hours. If you’re visiting during the New Year, don’t hesitate in booking a seat at the show for the special New Year’s spectacle!
The cabaret show tickets start at $109 USD.
Looking for the best Venice tours?
Get the complete round-up of the best Venice tours to explore the city, from the Doge’s Palace to St. Mark’s Basilica, the character-filled districts, historic art galleries, and more! Be guided by the locals leading the tours, and learn from their expert and local knowledge of all there is to know and see in Venice!
Visiting Venice on a budget?
Sign up for a free walking tour in Venice, and discover on foot the most popular sights of the city, while discovering some of its quaint corners that not many others get to see.
Cut down on the cost of visiting the museums and city attractions with the Venice City Pass! Choose up to 11 museums and 3 churches to enter with this single pass and skip-the-line privileges. Just want to visit the museums? Check out the Venice Museum Pass with direct access to special exhibits and collections!
Move around Venice on the city’s water bus system using the ACTV Transport Pass easily when you book a 1-7 day option pass!
Final thoughts
As we finalize the list of the best tourist attractions in Venice, we hope that you’ve gotten a good dose of inspiration, and ideas to add to your own Venice itinerary!
From the famous Doge’s Palace, and Accademia Gallery, to the off-the-beaten-path places like the Libreria Acqua Alta, people-watching at the Rialto Market, or trying your skills at mask making at an artisanal workshop, there are tons to do in Venice that will truly enchant you.
Happy travels!