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Venice's Most Iconic Landmarks
Classic Venice
These 10 world-famous landmarks define Venice's iconic image and appear in every travel guide.
If you've already visited these classic sights, check out our 20 hand-picked favorites that go beyond them, offering a fresh, deeper perspective on the city.
01 |Rialto Bridge
Oldest bridge over the Grand Canal, where merchants once crossed in search of trade and visitors now stream between two lively parts of Venice.
Few places capture the energetic side of Venice like this: gondolas, water buses, delivery boats, locals, and visitors all converge here, creating a scene that has changed remarkably little over the centuries.
02 |St. Mark's Square
There's a reason most one-day visitors head straight here: Venice's grand central square, the city's social, religious, and political heart, is nothing short of spectacular.
03 |St. Mark's Basilica
With its dazzling golden mosaics, profound history, and commanding aura, the so-called Church of Gold evokes a sense of overwhelming emotion. It stands as a lasting tribute to divine glory and the enduring power of Venice.
04 |Museo Correr
Prominent museum in an opulent setting, showcasing Venice's treasured artworks and rich history.
Included in the ticket to Doge's Palace, exploring the opulent interiors and rich collection is not to be missed.
05 |Doge's Palace
Grand palace of power, ceremony, and justice, the political heart of Venice for centuries. Behind its ornate facade are vast painted halls, intricate chambers of government, and even prisons connected by the Bridge of Sighs.
It's one of the rare places where you can experience both the elegance and the severity of Venetian power in a single visit. You move from majestic halls filled with art into the quiet weight of the old prisons. It is this contrast of beauty, power, and justice in one place that makes the Doge's Palace visit unforgettable.
06 |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.
07 |Teatro La Fenice
This historic, richly decorated opera house was reborn twice after fires burned it to the ground - just as its name (The Phoenix) foretold.
08 |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.
09 |Santa Maria della Salute
One of Venice's most recognizable landmarks, the church features a vast interior with notable artworks and balcony views over the Grand Canal.
10 |Grand Canal
Venice's main waterway winds through the heart of the city, lined with grand palaces, churches, and historic facades that reflect centuries of wealth and power.
One of the few places in the world where magnificent palaces and historic architecture rise directly from the water, allowing you to glide through the heart of the city amid a vibrant mix of gondolas and boats.
Ride Venice's iconic vessel
Riding a gondola is on many people's bucket lists, and it's truly as unique to Venice as it gets.
The most atmospheric rides usually take place along quieter side canals, where the city feels slower and more intimate. Some routes also pass along the Grand Canal or under the Rialto Bridge, where larger boats pass close by and the water feels busier and more dynamic.
Gondola rides can be booked on the spot at a fixed city rate: €90 for a 30-minute ride during the day and €110 in the evening or at night. The price is per boat, not per person, and each gondola can carry up to five passengers. Payment is cash only.
You could also book a shared gondola ride online. These are more budget-friendly for solo travelers or couples who don't mind sharing the gondola with others, and they also remove the need to handle cash payments.
Find your Venice
Tailored picks to match your travel style, mood, or interests.