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The 8 Spots That Defy the Usual Expectations of Venice

Atypical Venice

Tired of art-filled churches and Rococo palaces?

Then it’s time to switch things up with some more unconventional spots that reveal lesser-known aspects of Venice.

Would you have expected these 8 atypical finds to exist in a city like Venice?

1

San Zaccaria

San Zaccaria : The flooded 10th-century Romanesque crypt
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Among the many treasures and curiosities of this Gothic-Renaissance church, none linger longer in the memory than its eerie, partially flooded crypt.

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2

Venice Vintage Toys

Venice Vintage Toys : The giant Grendizer robot
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Small exibition with a massive collection of vintage dolls.

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

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3

Palazzo Grimani

Palazzo Grimani : The Tribuna is also known as the 'Chamber of Antiquities' because it once housed over 130 ancient sculptures
20

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.

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4

Ponte dei Pugni

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
5

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

Step into the stone footprints and picture the tension in the air, the roar of the crowd, and the chaos about to unfold. Fortunately, today the only battle is resisting another gelato.

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5

Palazzo Fortuny

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

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6

Arsenale

Arsenale : The main waterway entrance
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This historic shipyard fueled Venice’s naval power for centuries and now offers an unforgettable adventure for boys of all ages — though everyone will be captivated by the site’s rich history and the giant sculpture of six pairs of hands.

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7

Parco delle Rimembranze

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
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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.

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8

Ca' Pesaro

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

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Keep exploring Venice your way

Browse the collections and choose what suits your vibe or interests best.