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All Our Featured Spots

Full List

This guide offers a curated selection of Venice’s top spots, combining insights from trusted travel guides and user reviews, and validated by our own firsthand experiences in Venice.

Here’s the complete list of 73 spots, listed in alphabetical order.

Arsenale : The main waterway entrance
1

Arsenale

Historic shipyard powering Venice's former naval supremacy.

Perfect for boys of all ages, yet everyone will be amazed by the history of the complex and fascinated by the giant sculpture depicting six pairs of hands.

Explore Arsenale
Basilica dei Frari : Canova's mausoleum is perhaps the most distinctive monument among the many within this vast church
2

Basilica dei Frari

Imposing Gothic church housing art treasures and monumental mausoleums.

Escape the claustrophobia of crowds and narrow alleys into this expansive spiritual open space filled with art.

Explore Basilica dei Frari
Basilica di San Marco : The western facade, with the adjacent Palazzo Ducale and the lagoon in the background, as seen from Torre dell'Orologio
3

Basilica di San Marco

Grandiose cathedral with a gilded interior, the center of religious power in Venice.

The so-called Church of Gold will stir overwhelming emotions with its evocative mosaics, rich history and projected power, making it deeply memorable. It is a tribute not just to the glory of God but also to the glory of Venice.

Explore Basilica di San Marco
Bridge of Sighs : View facing the lagoon, from the small Ponte de Canonica
4

Bridge of Sighs

Enclosed bridge named for the sighs of convicts crossing it en route to the palace prison.

The Bridge of Sighs is simply one of the world's most famous bridges.

Explore Bridge of Sighs
Burano : The iconic pastel-colored houses are unique within the Venetian lagoon
5

Burano

Fishermen’s island known for its quaint, colorful houses and traditional lace-making.

A cheerful contrast to Venice, especially on sunny days, when the vibrant colors truly come to life.

Explore Burano
Ca' Pesaro : The first floor is reserved for modern art, such as this cast of 'The Thinker' by Auguste Rodin
6

Ca' Pesaro

Two distinct and captivating art museums, housed within a colossal canalside palace and accessible with a single ticket.

Even if modern art isn't to your taste and another grand palace feels like too much, the artifacts in the Oriental Museum are fascinating, with the collection considered one of the most important in Europe.

Explore Ca' Pesaro
Ca' Rezzonico : The throne room is draped in luxurious red velvet and it derives its name from the ornate gilded wooden throne adorned with cherubs, sea-nymphs, and sea-horses
7

Ca' Rezzonico

Museum showcasing the extravagance of 18th-century Venetian life, set within a grand palace.

Step back in time to Venice's Age of Decadence with a visit to this opulent residence, one of the few open to the public.

Explore Ca' Rezzonico
Ca' d'Oro : The distinctive facade, as seen from the Canal Grande
8

Ca' d'Oro

Exquisite Gothic palace housing a curated art collection.

You step into one of Venice's most elegant palazzos, with unobstructed front-row views of Canal Grande framed by Gothic arches.

Explore Ca' d'Oro
Campanile di San Marco : The top of the tower features the belfry (where you can climb), the symbol of St. Mark and a pyramidal spire topped by a golden angel
9

Campanile di San Marco

Basilica bell tower overlooking the square, tallest structure in Venice.

Enjoy spectacular aerial vistas over Venice and, on clear days, even the Alps, with effortless access by elevator.

Explore Campanile di San Marco
Campo Santa Margherita : Always teeming with activity!
10

Campo Santa Margherita

The city's liveliest square, buzzing with local energy and offering a great starting place for a night out.

Relax and people-watch in this vibrant square and later get the party started!

Explore Campo Santa Margherita
Canal Grande : View with Rialto Bridge in foreground, from Fondaco dei Tedeschi
11

Canal Grande

Majestic waterway, lined with a dazzling array of palaces.

Only here, in this one-of-a-kind place, can you admire some of the world’s most exquisite palaces and architecture while gliding alongside a vibrant array of boats.

Explore Canal Grande
Casa di Carlo Goldoni : One of the last puppet theatres - that were once common in the patrician houses of the 18th century- with its authentic collection of marionettes
12

Casa di Carlo Goldoni

Theatre museum in the former house of the renowned Venetian playwright.

Explore the history of Venetian theatre and admire the unique puppet theater, along with its displayed marionettes.

Explore Casa di Carlo Goldoni
Chiesa della Pieta (Vivaldi Church) : The anticipation builds as everyone awaits the arrival of the musicians
13

Chiesa della Pieta (Vivaldi Church)

Waterfront church located on the site where Vivaldi once worked, featuring evening classical concerts.

Best experienced by attending an evening concert, when you can admire Tiepolo's ceiling fresco while the uplifting rendition of 'The Four Seasons' fills the church space.

Explore Chiesa della Pieta (Vivaldi Church)
Chiesa di San Paolo : The Oratory of the Crucifix displays the 14 Stations of the Cross, which were painted by Giandomenico Tiepolo during his early twenties
14

Chiesa di San Paolo

Gothic church housing a series of evocative crucifixion scenes painted in an unconventional style.

After a peaceful break in the nearby square, curiosity may lead you inside to experience this unique take on a biblical scene.

Explore Chiesa di San Paolo
Chiesa di San Rocco : The impressive counter-facade with the organ loft
15

Chiesa di San Rocco

Confraternity church housing the remains of the protector against the plague.

The beautiful art inside is a good warm-up before your visit to the adjacent Scuola Grande.

Explore Chiesa di San Rocco
Da Vinci Interactive Museum : The room with flying machines
16

Da Vinci Interactive Museum

Museum featuring reproductions of Leonardo's masterpieces, with a focus on interactivity.

Get hands-on with Leonardo's mechanical inventions and be inspired by his sophisticated genius.

Explore Da Vinci Interactive Museum
Fondaco dei Tedeschi : The grand inner courtyard of the former warehouse is the core of the current shopping mall
17

Fondaco dei Tedeschi

Luxury shopping mall in a historical building, offering sweeping views from its rooftop terrace.

You can purchase high-quality souvenirs and enjoy sweeping views over Canal Grande and the Venetian skyline.

Explore Fondaco dei Tedeschi
Fondazione Querini Stampalia : The richly decorated interiors in their almost original state
18

Fondazione Querini Stampalia

Renaissance palace showcasing the family's historical art collection alongside contemporary works.

Explore beautiful interiors and an art collection where ancient and modern intertwine, culminating in a journey to the 1700s with vivid scenes of Venetian private and public life.

Explore Fondazione Querini Stampalia
Gallerie dell'Accademia : While Leonardo da Vinci's Vitruvian Man is the most renowned work in the Gallery, it is only exhibited for visitors on rare occasions
19

Gallerie dell'Accademia

Art museum documenting the evolution of Venetian art from the 13th to the 18th centuries.

Immerse yourself in one of Italy's finest art collections, featuring breathtaking canvases brimming with color, light and splendor.

Explore Gallerie dell'Accademia
Ghetto Ebraico : The main square of the Venetian Ghetto situated on the small island of Ghetto Nuovo ('New Ghetto')
20

Ghetto Ebraico

The term “ghetto” originated right here, in the area where Jews were compelled to live in the 16th century. Even today, echoes of this incredible past are still palpable.

Explore Ghetto Ebraico
Giardini della Biennale : The Giardini are dotted with numerous statues
21

Giardini della Biennale

Napoleon's creation of the park marked Venice's first public green space, now a peaceful retreat offering sweeping lagoon views and serving as the heart of the Biennale art exhibition.

Explore Giardini della Biennale
Libreria Acqua Alta : Well-known for its resident cats
22

Libreria Acqua Alta

Quirky bookshop complete with resident cats and its own gondola.

Step into a unique book lover's paradise where books rest in gondolas, overseen by charming resident cats.

Explore Libreria Acqua Alta
Lido : The inviting beach and sea are the perfect way to unwind after a couple of days of sightseeing
23

Lido

Venice's seaside resort featuring a wide, sandy beach.

Explore Lido
Madonna dell'Orto : The 'Presentation of the Virgin in the Temple' was initially created as two vertical halves, a fact easily noticeable at the bottom, particularly in the child's dress
24

Madonna dell'Orto

Gothic church adorned with 10 impressive paintings by Tintoretto, who is also buried within.

This graceful church, containing two of Tintoretto's best works, is a must-see when exploring Cannaregio.

Explore Madonna dell'Orto
Murano : The Clock Tower and Rio dei Vetrai mark the center of Murano
25

Murano

Just a short water bus ride from Venice, immerse yourself in all things glass: its production, history, artistry, and indulge in souvenir shopping right at the source.

Explore Murano
Museo Correr : In the Napoleonic Wing of the museum complex, the opulent ballroom reigns as one of the most exquisite chambers
26

Museo Correr

Prominent museum showcasing treasured artworks and Venice's history.

Included in the ticket to Palazzo Ducale, exploring the opulent interiors and rich collection is not to be missed.

Explore Museo Correr
Museo del Vetro : The spacious central room, also known as the portego, situated on the first floor
27

Museo del Vetro

Museum delving into the history of glassmaking, featuring glass items from ancient times to the present day.

You get to appreciate the artistry and decorative applications of this captivating material in the world’s largest historical collection of Murano glass.

Explore Museo del Vetro
Museo della Musica : Three cellos stand majestically in front of the altar
28

Museo della Musica

Museum dedicated to the art of Italian violin making, housed in a centuries-old deconsecrated church.

Few places in the world feature a church as the setting for a music museum, while also offering free entry.

Explore Museo della Musica
Natural History Museum : During the early 1700s, the 'rooms of wonders' became popular for showcasing collections of creatures rarely seen by Venetians at that time
29

Natural History Museum

Natural history museum featuring artifacts from Venetian expeditions.

Ideal for families with middle to older children, fostering a genuine sense of exploration among curious visitors.

Explore Natural History Museum
Naval History Museum : One of the museum's highlights is a replica of the Bucintoro, the Doge's ceremonial barge that was once adorned with gold
30

Naval History Museum

Museum of Venice’s naval history, housed in the former Granary of the Serenissima Republic.

Overall, the museum is fascinating for children and essential for naval warfare enthusiasts. After all, how often do you get the chance to board a military submarine?

Explore Naval History Museum
Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo : From afar, the staircase reveals its clever design of gradually reducing the height of its arches as it climbs upward
31

Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo

Get dizzy climbing this snail-shaped (bovolo) staircase, built with defiance in the 1400s to showcase the wealth of one of Italy’s oldest noble families.

Explore Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo
Palazzo Ducale : The Chamber of the Great Council is the largest and most majestic chamber in the palace
32

Palazzo Ducale

Ornate palace where the city's political leader once resided.

Behind the elegant facade, majestic chambers coexist with a darker side, creating a fascinating duality.

Explore Palazzo Ducale
Palazzo Fortuny : The Winter Garden is remarkable for its unexpected painting cycle on the wall, meticulously crafted by Fortuny over 25 years
33

Palazzo Fortuny

In the warm and inviting ambiance of Mariano Fortuny's former residence, the array of art is beyond words. With each display suggesting that the artistic work is still unfolding, you'll feel as though the artist could step into the room at any given moment, ready to continue his creative journey.

Explore Palazzo Fortuny
Palazzo Grassi : The front of the palace overlooking the Canal Grande
34

Palazzo Grassi

Contemporary art museum in a classical 17-th century palace.

It's an opportunity to immerse yourself in the lives and works of some of today's greatest artists, all within the setting of the last grand palazzo built in Venice.

Explore Palazzo Grassi
Palazzo Grimani : The Tribuna is also known as the 'Chamber of Antiquities' because it once housed over 130 ancient sculptures
35

Palazzo Grimani

Unusual Renaissance palace with theatrical frescoed halls adorned with intricate grotesques.

Get a sense of how the ultra-rich Venetians adorned their palazzos with out-of-the-ordinary decorations.

Explore Palazzo Grimani
Palazzo Mocenigo : To evoke daily life as it was back then, rooms contain mannequins wearing ancient garments and accessories
36

Palazzo Mocenigo

Museum that acts as a time machine to the daily life of Venetian nobility at the height of the Republic.

Be instantly transported to a bygone era with richly detailed decor, lavish historic garments and an interactive fragrance exhibition.

Explore Palazzo Mocenigo
Parco delle Rimembranze : The park is characterized by its unique umbrella pine trees, which offer a shaded retreat in the midst of a bustling urban setting
37

Parco delle Rimembranze

Tranquil park with shaded pine trees, a playground and stunning views over the San Marco basin.

Escape the city's narrow streets and crowds to open, green expanses and witness one of the best sunsets.

Explore Parco delle Rimembranze
Peggy Guggenheim Collection : Facing the Canal Grande, Palazzo Venier dei Leoni served as Peggy Guggenheim's residence for three decades
38

Peggy Guggenheim Collection

Modern art collection in an 18th-century unfinished palace.

Ideal for modern art enthusiasts and those seeking a respite from traditional Venetian art.

Explore Peggy Guggenheim Collection
Piazza San Marco : Some of the most iconic sights in Venice are located on the eastern side of the square
39

Piazza San Marco

Grand square and gathering place, the social, religious and political center of Venice.

There's a reason why most one-day travelers come just here. Piazza San Marco is indeed truly impressive. But don't let that deter you from discovering the rest of Venice's treasures.

Explore Piazza San Marco
Ponte dei Pugni : Stone footprints marked the start of the fights, but contestants often ended up in the murky canal as the bridge lacked railings
40

Ponte dei Pugni

Bridge famed for its historic tradition of organized fistfights between rival gangs.

Stand in the stone footsteps and imagine the tension that filled the air at the start of such a fight.

Explore Ponte dei Pugni
Punta della Dogana : Two atlases support a gilded globe upon which the allegory of Fortuna stands, indicating the direction of the wind
41

Punta della Dogana

Contemporary art museum housed in a former customs building with a stunning 270° vantage point.

Renowned for its spectacular views of the Venetian waterfront and lagoon, it's the perfect way to end a leisurely stroll through the charming Dorsoduro neighborhood.

Explore Punta della Dogana
Rialto Bridge : Southward view
42

Rialto Bridge

The first bridge over the Grand Canal, now one of Venice's most iconic landmarks.

You'll never get enough of witnessing the captivating bustle at Venice's acclaimed 'true heart'.

Explore Rialto Bridge
Rialto Market : The Pescheria (fish market) in the morning
43

Rialto Market

Historic market with lively stalls providing a glimpse into authentic Venetian life.

A feast for the senses: delight in vibrant colors, immerse yourself in an array of intoxicating smells, and listen to the lively banter of stallholders speaking in Venetian dialect.

Explore Rialto Market
Riva degli Schiavoni : The monumental waterfront is constantly bustling with crowds and souvenir stalls
45

Riva degli Schiavoni

Monumental waterfront along the San Marco basin.

Stroll next to the glittering water on one of the most beloved promenades, which is particularly charming close to sunset.

Explore Riva degli Schiavoni
San Barnaba : The stunning white marble façade is modelled after a Greek temple front and features Corinthian-style columns and a triangular pediment
46

San Barnaba

Catholic church, now home to a small museum showcasing works by Da Vinci.

Relive the scene from the third Indiana Jones movie, then step inside to admire the beautiful interior and be inspired by Leonardo's sophisticated genius.

Explore San Barnaba
San Giacomo dall'Orio : The beautifully painted cupolas above the right altar
47

San Giacomo dall'Orio

Romanesque church containing a curious depiction of a miracle performed by the Virgin.

It's a beautiful and peaceful church, filled with art and curiosities.

Explore San Giacomo dall'Orio
San Giacomo di Rialto : It features a bell-gable instead of the traditional bell tower
48

San Giacomo di Rialto

Tiny Gothic church with a large, unusual 15th-century clock on its facade.

A refreshing change from the grand churches of Venice, and a convenient stop if you're heading to the iconic fish market.

Explore San Giacomo di Rialto
San Giorgio Maggiore : On its small island as seen from across the lagoon from Punta della Dogana
49

San Giorgio Maggiore

Island church offering stunning panoramic views of Venice from its bell tower.

Take in breathtaking views similar to those from Campanile di San Marco, but this time with the iconic tower also included in the frame.

Explore San Giorgio Maggiore
San Moise : The impressive altarpiece combines frescoes, sculptures and rocks to depict Moses receiving the Ten Commandments from God
50

San Moise

Roman Catholic church with an over-the-top Baroque facade and an equally impressive altarpiece.

Just a short detour from Piazza San Marco, it's well worth the visit for its beautiful artwork and stunning ornate facade.

Explore San Moise
San Nicolo dei Mendicoli : The richly adorned interior
51

San Nicolo dei Mendicoli

Veneto-Byzantine church with a history of aiding the less fortunate.

It's a beautiful and tranquil church, nestled away from the crowds in a characterful part of Dorsoduro.

Explore San Nicolo dei Mendicoli
San Pantalon : The church is renowned for its vast ceiling painting
52

San Pantalon

Church concealing a vast ceiling painting that spans the heavens above.

The breathtaking ceiling, with its vibrant celestial scene and mesmerizing sense of depth, is sure to leave you in awe.

Explore San Pantalon
San Salvador : Titian’s 'Transfiguration of Christ' graces the high altar
53

San Salvador

Monumental Baroque church, adorned with abundant art and featuring two hidden gems.

If you're near Rialto, it costs nothing to step into this impressive church and take a break from the crowds while enjoying remarkable art.

Explore San Salvador
San Sebastiano : The bright interior is adorned with works by Veronese
54

San Sebastiano

Votive plague church adorned with vibrant paintings by Veronese, who is also buried here.

This was the three-decade 'workplace' of one of Venice's greatest painters. His dramatic works and the overall sense of peaceful harmony inside will captivate you.

Explore San Sebastiano
San Vidal : The anticipation builds as everyone awaits the arrival of the musicians
55

San Vidal

Baroque music venue in a long-deconsecrated church.

Conclude your day of sightseeing by immersing yourself in an emotional classical music concert.

Explore San Vidal
San Zaccaria : The flooded 10th-century Romanesque crypt
56

San Zaccaria

Gothic-Renaissance church with a mysterious flooded crypt.

While there is much to appreciate in the ornate decoration and art, it is the crypt that truly sets this place of worship apart.

Explore San Zaccaria
Santa Maria Formosa : The church is located in a charming square with shops & cafes
57

Santa Maria Formosa

Catholic church situated in a quaint square surrounded by cafes and shops.

The perfect spot to recharge before continuing your exploration of the surrounding sights.

Explore Santa Maria Formosa
Santa Maria dei Carmini : The friezes on both sides of the clerestory walls depict a total of 24 scenes related to Carmelite subjects
58

Santa Maria dei Carmini

Carmelite Church with an interior that gives the impression of vast length.

The beautiful art inside is a good warm-up before your visit to the adjacent Scuola Grande.

Explore Santa Maria dei Carmini
Santa Maria dei Miracoli : The narrow, tall nave has a raised altar so that everyone can see the venerated painting of the Virgin
59

Santa Maria dei Miracoli

Often called a 'Renaissance jewelry box' for its exquisite polychrome marble panels, supposedly crafted from leftover marbles from St. Mark's Basilica.

Explore Santa Maria dei Miracoli
Santa Maria del Giglio : This 18th-century painting depicts the church just before its brick belfry was demolished due to safety concerns for neighbouring buildings
60

Santa Maria del Giglio

Roman Catholic church with a remarkable Baroque Venetian facade featuring distinct relief maps.

After marveling at the facade, you'll discover a variety of artworks inside, including the only canvas by Flemish artist Peter Paul Rubens in Venice.

Explore Santa Maria del Giglio
Santa Maria della Salute : The exterior is embellished with no less than 125 statues, which starkly contrasts with the solemn ambiance inside
61

Santa Maria della Salute

Baroque votive church with a unique octagonal design.

Dominating the southern entrance of the Canal Grande, the church's silhouette has become one of the city's most recognizable landmarks. Why not experience its dramatic Baroque up close?

Explore Santa Maria della Salute
Santi Giovanni e Paolo : The main altar
62

Santi Giovanni e Paolo

The largest church in Venice, serving as the final resting place for 25 Doges.

It's ok to feel small inside this Gothic giant. The upside is that there's so much to explore in what feels like an endless space. Admire masterpieces by Bellini, Lorenzetti, Lombardo and Veronese.

Explore Santi Giovanni e Paolo
Santi Maria e Donato : The entire floor of the church is one giant mosaic
63

Santi Maria e Donato

Old church with magnificent Byzantine mosaics and a dragon myth.

You'll be welcomed by an elegant exterior and then mesmerized by the mosaics inside. Kids will ask countless questions about the fabled dragon.

Explore Santi Maria e Donato
Scuola dei Carmini : The capitular hall, the largest of the rooms, is adorned with the most precious works of the Scuola
64

Scuola dei Carmini

Archconfraternity building featuring lavish, luminous, art-filled interiors.

A hidden gem of a scuola that, with a bit of luck, you could have all to yourself while visiting.

Explore Scuola dei Carmini
Scuola di San Marco : The facade features many marble statues of angels, warriors, and other fantastical creatures
65

Scuola di San Marco

Medical museum housed in a grand confraternity building dedicated to the patron saint of Venice.

In addition to experiencing the grand interior, you'll be impressed by the evolution of medicine since ancient times.

Explore Scuola di San Marco
Scuola di San Rocco : The first glimpse of the spectacular Sala Capitulare as you ascend the grand staircase
66

Scuola di San Rocco

The wealthiest of the seven confraternity buildings will impress with its breathtaking grand interiors, showcasing some of the most dramatic artworks in Venice - matched only by those of the Doge's Palace.

Explore Scuola di San Rocco
Squero di San Trovaso : The workshop and living quarters, resembling an alpine chalet, are quite unusual for Venice
67

Squero di San Trovaso

One of the last few boatyards building traditional wooden gondolas.

Witness skilled artisans crafting and repairing gondolas by hand, a centuries-old craft that's quintessentially Venetian.

Explore Squero di San Trovaso
Torcello : There’s not much left on Torcello today, though it was once filled with palazzos and churches
68

Torcello

Small island considered the symbol of Venice's birth, where the lagoon’s oldest church still stands.

A peaceful escape from Venice’s bustle - this quiet, sleepy island is steeped in history and significance and it’s just a stone’s throw from Burano.

Explore Torcello
Torre dell'Orologio : The side of the clocktower facing Piazza San Marco
69

Torre dell'Orologio

Renaissance clock tower topped with two giant statues that hammer out the hours.

Going inside is essential to fully appreciate this 500-year-old iconic building and technological masterpiece.

Explore Torre dell'Orologio
Train Station : Completed soon after WW2, the train station predominantly features designs from the fascist era
70

Train Station

Your gateway for rail travel in and out of Venice.

While not a tourist attraction per se, it's the main access point for trips in and out of Venice.

Explore Train Station
Venice Jazz Club : Jazz is in full swing with the VCJ quartet
71

Venice Jazz Club

Intimate jazz club featuring live music from the VJC quartet plus a full bar.

After a day of exploring Venice's historical charm, indulging in contemporary live music at this effortlessly cool club is the perfect way to return to the present moment.

Explore Venice Jazz Club
Venice Vintage Toys : The giant Grendizer robot
72

Venice Vintage Toys

Small exibition with a massive collection of vintage dolls.

A delightfully nostalgic collection that evokes happy memories in adults and scores points with kids.

Explore Venice Vintage Toys
Zattere : Zattere is a favorite spot for the local 'ritual' of La Passeggiata (the promenade)
73

Zattere

Sun-bathed waterfront on the south of Dorsoduro.

The promenade is such a soothing spot, perfect for enjoying the local atmosphere. Watch the sunset while sipping an aperitivo and prepare for the evening.

Explore Zattere
Tip

Consider getting a city pass

In addition to saving on entry fees, the biggest advantage of the official city pass is skipping the lines and streamlining your admission to most of Venice's top attractions.

You simply show the pass and walk right in.

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