Deeper into Venice
Discover fascinating spots beyond the classics
This is the second layer of Venice Unveiled.
After experiencing the classics on your first visit, you’re now ready to dive deeper and explore Venice’s equally fascinating, and often lesser-known sides.
Venture to Venice’s iconic island trio
There are over 100 islands in the lagoon, but the most famous ones are Murano, Burano, and Torcello.
Boat tours take you to all three islands in just a few hours, which is a great idea if you have limited time.
Murano has been the heart of Venice’s renowned glass-making industry since 1291.
Burano is distinguished by its brightly painted houses and is renowned for its traditional lace artisans.
Torcello is often seen as the symbolic birthplace of Venice.
Stroll a waterfront promenade
Whether it’s the busy Riva degli Schiavoni or the quieter stretches like the Zattere, Venice’s waterfront promenades are made for slow walks.
These open-air paths invite you to pause, breathe in the lagoon air, and watch boats drift by and waves gently lap the embankment.
Lined with cafés, they offer a welcome sense of space — a refreshing contrast to the city’s narrow alleys.
Don’t miss the postcard panorama from Punta della Dogana, where Canal Grande opens into Venice’s shimmering lagoon.
Choose from our Top 20
Our guide to Venice contains over 70 incredible top spots — so believe us, narrowing it down to just 20 wasn’t easy.
The Top 20 beyond the classics brings together a diverse mix of sights — from spectacular landmarks to so-called 'hidden gems' — offering a little of everything: museums, churches, palaces, and lively local squares, each with its own unique charm and story to tell.
Now might be the perfect moment to take a look through the list and see what sparks your curiosity.
Try some fun activities
Venice is a paradise for sightseeing, but what if you want something more hands-on or active?
Beyond sightseeing, there are plenty of quintessentially Venetian experiences — from crafting your own carnival mask to learning how to row like a local.
Go to an evening concert
Venice — where Antonio Vivaldi was born and spent much of his life — still echoes with his music during regular evening concerts across the city.
Listen to an uplifting rendition of Vivaldi's beloved 'Four Seasons', performed not in a concert hall, but in the intimate settings of the churches of San Vidal or Chiesa della Pieta (Vivaldi Church) (also known as the Vivaldi Church).
Or step back into Venice's golden era with baroque classics and operatic arias, featuring performers in traditional Venetian costumes.
Experience Italian opera like never before as you move from room to room with the performers, soaking up the drama of epics like 'La Traviata' and 'Rigoletto' in the intimate and historically elegant setting of a 15th-century palace on the Canal Grande.
See Venice from above
With its maze of canals, iconic landmarks, and the shimmering lagoon in the background, Venice offers a rooftop panorama like no other.
Taking it all in from above is a unique experience — and Venice has no shortage of breathtaking viewpoints: from the most iconic, the Campanile di San Marco, to the best-value view at San Giorgio Maggiore, and the only true 360° panorama from the terrace of Palazzo Pisani.
We cover them all — plus a couple of surprises in between — so you can pick your favorite and maybe save a few for next time.
Keep unveiling Venice
As part of our Venice Unveiled series, we're revealing the city in layers — from iconic sights, perfect for first-time visitors, to hidden corners, awaiting returning explorers.
Third Layer
Venice for returning visitors
Fourth & Final Layer
Venice for regular visitors
First Layer
Classic VeniceFind your Venice
Tailored picks to match your travel style, mood, or interests.