Naval Heritage
8 Ways to Get Closer to the Water
Water Escapes
Venice sits at the heart of a lagoon, perhaps closer to water than any other city in the world.
Connect even deeper with Venice’s defining element through 8 unforgettable experiences, waterways, and waterfront spots.
1
Hit the beach at Lido
Just a 20-minute water bus ride from Piazza San Marco, followed by a 10-minute walk, and you'll reach Venice's wide, sandy beach along the Adriatic.
2
Kayak in the canals
How extraordinary would it be to navigate the canals in your own self-propelled vessel?
3
Row a boat
If kayaking sounds a bit risky, there’s a safer alternative that still lets you explore the city in this unique way.
VeniceOnBoard offers 1-hour rowing lessons in the traditional Venetian style, plus a laid-back 1.5-hour experience for families and groups.
Hop on board for a relaxing rowing 'walk' through the city with one of their instructors.
4
Canal Grande
Majestic waterway, lined with a dazzling array of palaces.
Only here, in this unique setting, can you admire some of the world’s most exquisite palaces and architecture while simultaneously gliding past a vibrant array of boats.
Explore Canal Grande
5
Take a gondola ride
Riding a gondola is on many people's bucket lists, and it’s truly as unique to Venice as it gets.
A 30-minute gondola ride has a fixed price set by the city: €90 during the day and €110 in the evening or at night.
This price covers a private gondola that can hold up to 5 passengers, but note that payment is only accepted in cash.
If you don’t have cash on hand, or if you're traveling solo or as a couple, consider booking a shared gondola online for a more affordable option.
6
Island hopping
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.
7
Riva degli Schiavoni
Monumental waterfront along the San Marco basin.
Stroll next to the glittering water on one of the most beloved promenades, which is particularly charming close to sunset.
Explore Riva degli Schiavoni
8
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.
Explore ZattereTip
Water Bus hop-on hop-off
With a water bus pass, you can explore Venice and its surroundings cost-effectively, avoiding the hassle of constantly buying individual 75' tickets.
Picture yourself enjoying grand views from the water of the entire Canal Grande (line #1) and then taking in the breathtaking aerial vistas from the belltower of San Giorgio Maggiore (reachable with line #2).
Afterwards, head to the northern entrance of the Arsenale with line #4.1 and even travel further to Murano.
All in the same day, for only €25.