Things to Visit in Venice: Iconic Landmarks and Hidden Gems

Venice is a city like no other, with its winding canals, stunning architecture, and rich history. From the grandeur of St. Mark’s Square to the colorful houses of Burano, Venice has a wealth of attractions for every traveler. Here’s your guide to the things to visit in Venice to ensure an unforgettable trip filled with the best sights and experiences.

The Grand Canal

The Grand Canal is Venice’s main waterway, curving through the city in a wide S-shape and lined with palaces and historic buildings. Known as the “Main Street” of Venice, the Grand Canal offers some of the most iconic views of the city. Many of Venice’s most important buildings, dating back to the 13th century, stand along its banks. A boat ride on the Grand Canal, either by vaporetto (water bus) or gondola, is a must-do to appreciate Venice’s architectural wonders up close.

For a truly magical experience, consider taking a boat ride at sunset or in the evening when the buildings along the canal are beautifully lit. The canal is bustling during the day, but in the evening, it takes on a calm, reflective beauty that’s hard to match. Grand Canal

St. Mark’s Basilica

St. Mark’s Basilica, located in Piazza San Marco, is a breathtaking mix of Byzantine, Gothic, and Renaissance architectural styles. Known for its golden mosaics that cover nearly every surface, St. Mark’s is one of Venice’s most revered sites. The basilica was originally built in the 9th century to house the relics of St. Mark, Venice’s patron saint. Today, its walls are covered in mosaics that tell the stories of the Bible, and its interior shimmers with gold and gemstones.

Visitors can also climb to the basilica’s balcony, which offers a spectacular view of St. Mark’s Square and the Venetian lagoon. This spot is especially picturesque at sunrise when the light casts a golden glow over the basilica. To avoid the long lines, it’s recommended to book your visit online. St. Mark’s Basilica

Doge’s Palace

Next to St. Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale) was the official residence of the Doge of Venice and a political heart of the Venetian Republic. This grand Gothic palace is a masterpiece of architecture, featuring intricate marble designs and beautifully carved facades. Inside, the palace contains numerous paintings by Venetian masters, including Titian and Tintoretto. Walking through the Hall of the Great Council, one of the largest rooms in Europe, offers a glimpse into Venice’s political past.

One of the most unique parts of the Doge’s Palace tour is crossing the Bridge of Sighs, which connects the palace to the old prison. Legend has it that prisoners sighed as they took one last look at Venice before heading to their cells. A walk through both the palace and the prison gives visitors a complete picture of Venice’s history, from grandeur to the more somber parts of its past. Doge’s Palace

Rialto Bridge

The Rialto Bridge is one of Venice’s most famous bridges and a popular attraction for visitors. Built in the 16th century, this stone bridge spans the Grand Canal and is lined with shops that sell everything from jewelry to souvenirs. Standing at the top of the bridge, visitors can enjoy a beautiful view of the Grand Canal and the bustling activity below. It’s a great spot for photos, especially in the early morning or late afternoon when the light is softer.

The bridge connects two major districts in Venice, San Marco and San Polo, making it a convenient and scenic route for those exploring both areas. Rialto Bridge

The Island of Murano

Famous worldwide for its glass-making tradition, Murano is a nearby island that offers a fascinating look into Venice’s craftsmanship. Since the 13th century, Murano has been renowned for its glass artisans, who produce everything from intricate chandeliers to delicate glass sculptures. Visiting Murano gives you a chance to watch these artisans at work, as many studios offer glass-blowing demonstrations.

Murano also has the Murano Glass Museum, which showcases the history and art of glassmaking, including ancient glass artifacts and contemporary works. After exploring, you can browse the local shops for a unique piece of Murano glass to take home as a souvenir. Island of Murano

The Peggy Guggenheim Collection

Art enthusiasts should not miss the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, a museum dedicated to modern art along the Grand Canal. Housed in Peggy Guggenheim’s former home, the Palazzo Venier dei Leoni, this museum features works by celebrated artists such as Pablo Picasso, Jackson Pollock, and Salvador Dalí. Guggenheim was an avid art collector, and her collection spans surrealism, abstract expressionism, and more.

The museum also includes a beautiful sculpture garden, where you can enjoy the art in a peaceful setting. From the museum, there’s a stunning view of the Grand Canal, making it a lovely spot to relax after taking in the art. Peggy Guggenheim Collection

Burano Island

Known for its brightly painted houses, Burano Island is a colorful and charming place, perfect for a day trip from Venice. This island is famous not only for its colors but also for its lace-making tradition, with shops and studios where you can watch artisans creating delicate lace by hand. The bright houses along Burano’s canals make it one of the most photogenic spots in Venice, especially on sunny days.

For photographers, the early morning light provides the best colors and fewer crowds, making it easier to capture the vibrancy of Burano’s streets. After exploring, consider enjoying a meal at a local trattoria, where fresh seafood is often the highlight. Burano Island

Teatro La Fenice

Opera lovers will want to visit Teatro La Fenice, one of Italy’s most famous opera houses. This historic venue has a rich history and has hosted premieres of operas by Rossini, Verdi, and other famous composers. Although it has been rebuilt twice due to fires, Teatro La Fenice remains a symbol of Venice’s resilience and passion for the arts.

Visitors can attend a performance or take a guided tour to learn about the theater’s history and admire its lavish decor. Highlights of the tour include the stunning auditorium and the royal box, both of which showcase the opulence of Italian opera. Teatro La Fenice

Jewish Ghetto

The Jewish Ghetto of Venice is one of the oldest in Europe, dating back to the early 16th century. This area offers a unique look into the city’s Jewish heritage and includes synagogues, the Jewish Museum, and Kosher restaurants. The Ghetto is a quieter part of Venice, where you can explore at a relaxed pace while learning about the history of Venice’s Jewish community.

Notable sites include the Jewish Museum, which houses artifacts and documents that provide insight into the lives of Venetian Jews, and the Holocaust Memorial. This area of Venice is both culturally and historically significant, offering a unique perspective on Venice’s diverse heritage. Jewish Ghetto

Ca’ d’Oro

The Ca’ d’Oro, or “House of Gold,” is a striking palace along the Grand Canal. Known for its intricate Gothic facade, this palace is one of Venice’s architectural treasures. Inside, the Ca’ d’Oro houses the Giorgio Franchetti Gallery, which displays a collection of Renaissance art, including works by Titian and other Italian masters.

The balconies of the Ca’ d’Oro offer a stunning view of the Grand Canal, making it a perfect spot for photos. Visiting this palace allows you to appreciate the craftsmanship and beauty of Venetian Gothic architecture. Ca’ d’Oro

Conclusion

Venice offers countless attractions, but these things to visit in Venice capture the essence of the city’s beauty, history, and culture. From the bustling Grand Canal to the vibrant colors of Burano and the artistic treasures of the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, Venice is a city that leaves a lasting impression. Plan your visit and immerse yourself in the charm, elegance, and history of this unforgettable city.