If you steer clear of the tourist hotspots and venture off the beaten path, you'll discover these 18 fantastic, lesser-known spots, including hidden gems.
Church concealing a vast ceiling painting that spans the heavens above.
The breathtaking ceiling, with its vibrant celestial scene and mesmerizing illusion of depth, will certainly leave you in awe.
Discover San Pantalon
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.
Discover Da Vinci Interactive Museum
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!
Discover Campo Santa Margherita
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 that well repays a visit.
Discover San Nicolo dei Mendicoli
Votive Catholic 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.
Discover San Sebastiano
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.
Discover Arsenale
Museum dedicated to Venice's naval history.
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?
Discover Naval History Museum
Public gardens hosting the Biennale Arte Exhibitions.
During the Biennale, you'll be here anyway if you're a fan of art. Otherwise, the relaxed gardens offer a vantage point over the city and the lagoon, far from the crowds.
Discover Giardini della Biennale
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 to witness one of the best sunsets.
Discover Parco delle Rimembranze
Palace with a distinctive exterior spiral staircase.
It's just a small detour from the beaten path for a beautiful sight. Go even further and climb the staircase to the top, where you'll be rewarded with rooftop views of Venice.
Discover Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo
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.
Discover Santi Giovanni e Paolo
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.
Discover Scuola di San Marco
Marble church housing the miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary.
The church's exquisite polychrome marble panels and sculptures are sure to leave you in awe. Once inside, you'll quickly understand why it's sometimes called a 'renaissance jewelry box.'
Discover Santa Maria dei Miracoli
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.
Discover Madonna dell'Orto
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.
Discover Palazzo Mocenigo
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.
Discover Santi Maria e Donato
Gothic palace, former residence of Mariano Fortuny, now a museum showcasing his creativity and eclectic taste.
It’s one of those rare museums designed to provide an emotional experience rather than just an educational one.
Discover Palazzo Fortuny
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.
Discover Zattere