
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 ArsenaleThis 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.
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 ArsenaleImposing 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 FrariGrandiose 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 MarcoEnclosed 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 SighsFishermen’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 BuranoTwo 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' PesaroMuseum 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' RezzonicoExquisite 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'OroBasilica 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 MarcoThe 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 MargheritaMajestic 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 GrandeTheatre 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 GoldoniWaterfront 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)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 PaoloConfraternity 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 RoccoMuseum 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 MuseumLuxury 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 TedeschiRenaissance 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 StampaliaArt 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'AccademiaThe 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 EbraicoNapoleon'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 BiennaleQuirky 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 AltaVenice's seaside resort featuring a wide, sandy beach.
Explore LidoGothic 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'OrtoJust 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 MuranoProminent 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 CorrerMuseum 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 VetroMuseum 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 MusicaNatural 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 MuseumMuseum 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 MuseumGet 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 BovoloOrnate 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 DucaleIn 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 FortunyContemporary 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 GrassiUnusual 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 GrimaniMuseum 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 MocenigoTranquil 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 RimembranzeModern 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 CollectionGrand 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 MarcoBridge 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 PugniContemporary 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 DoganaThe 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 BridgeHistoric 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 MarketCanal with glass souvenir shops.
Explore Rio dei VetraiMonumental 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 SchiavoniCatholic 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 BarnabaRomanesque 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'OrioTiny 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 RialtoIsland 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 MaggioreRoman 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 MoiseVeneto-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 MendicoliChurch 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 PantalonMonumental 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 SalvadorVotive 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 SebastianoBaroque music venue in a long-deconsecrated church.
Conclude your day of sightseeing by immersing yourself in an emotional classical music concert.
Explore San VidalGothic-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 ZaccariaCatholic 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 FormosaCarmelite 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 CarminiOften 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 MiracoliRoman 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 GiglioBaroque 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 SaluteThe 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 PaoloOld 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 DonatoArchconfraternity 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 CarminiMedical 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 MarcoThe 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 RoccoOne 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 TrovasoSmall 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 TorcelloRenaissance 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'OrologioYour 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 StationIntimate 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 ClubSmall 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 ToysSun-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 ZattereIn 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.