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Without Crowds

Where to escape the tourist crowds

Avoid the hordes of tourists and discover these 18 fantastic, lesser-known spots, including hidden gems.

All off the beaten path.


San Pantalon
1

San Pantalon

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.

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Da Vinci Interactive Museum
2

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.

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Campo Santa Margherita
3

Campo Santa Margherita

The city's liveliest campo, meaning square or open space.

Relax and people-watch in this lively and authentic square.

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San Nicolo dei Mendicoli
4

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 that well repays a visit.

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San Sebastiano
5

San Sebastiano

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.

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Arsenale
6

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.

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Naval History Museum
7

Naval History Museum

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?

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Giardini della Biennale
8

Giardini della Biennale

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.

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Parco delle Rimembranze
9

Parco delle Rimembranze

Tranquil park with plenty of shade under the pine trees and a playground.

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

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Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo
10

Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo

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.

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Santi Giovanni e Paolo
11

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.

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Scuola di San Marco
12

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.

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Santa Maria dei Miracoli
13

Santa Maria dei Miracoli

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.'

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Madonna dell'Orto
14

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.

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Palazzo Mocenigo
15

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.

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Santi Maria e Donato
16

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.

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Palazzo Fortuny
17

Palazzo Fortuny

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.

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Zattere
18

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.

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