Venice, a unique city built on water, captivates visitors with its historic landmarks, art, and stunning architecture. To help you explore the best Venice has to offer, here’s a comprehensive guide to the top 20 attractions, complete with history, ticket info, travel tips, and more.
1. St. Mark’s Basilica (Basilica di San Marco)
Description: St. Mark’s Basilica is a breathtaking cathedral with golden mosaics, marble floors, and intricate domes that showcase Venice’s rich history and religious devotion.
History: Built in the 9th century, this basilica has undergone numerous renovations and is Venice’s most iconic religious landmark.
Google Maps: St. Mark’s Basilica Location
Official Website: St. Mark’s Basilica
Tickets: Book Tickets – €3 for basic entry; additional fees for museum, treasury, and Pala d’Oro
Opening Hours: Mon-Sat, 9:30 AM – 5:15 PM; Sun, 2 PM – 4:30 PM
Travel Options: Vaporetto Line 1 or 2 (San Marco stop)
Tips: Visit early to avoid crowds and dress modestly as this is an active place of worship.
2. Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale)
Description: Doge’s Palace is a grand Gothic structure that was once the seat of the Venetian government. It houses a museum filled with Venetian art and offers access to the Bridge of Sighs.
History: Constructed in the 14th century, it served as the residence of the Doge and a center of Venetian politics for centuries.
Google Maps: Doge’s Palace Location
Official Website: Doge’s Palace
Tickets: Book Tickets – €25
Opening Hours: Daily, 9 AM – 6 PM
Travel Options: Vaporetto Line 1 or 2 (San Marco stop)
Tips: Opt for the Secret Itineraries Tour to see hidden rooms and the prison cells.
3. Rialto Bridge (Ponte di Rialto)
Description: The Rialto Bridge is Venice’s oldest and most famous bridge, known for its beautiful views of the Grand Canal and vibrant shops.
History: Built in the late 16th century, the bridge was the only way to cross the Grand Canal by foot for many years.
Google Maps: Rialto Bridge Location
Opening Hours: Open 24/7
Travel Options: Vaporetto Line 1 (Rialto stop)
Tips: Visit early in the morning for quieter views and better photo opportunities.
4. St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco)
Description: St. Mark’s Square is Venice’s main public square, surrounded by historic buildings and filled with cafes, shops, and landmarks.
History: Developed in the 9th century, this square has been the cultural and political heart of Venice for centuries.
Google Maps: St. Mark’s Square Location
Opening Hours: Open 24/7
Travel Options: Vaporetto Line 1 or 2 (San Marco stop)
Tips: Grab a coffee at Caffè Florian, one of the oldest cafes in Europe, though expect high prices.
5. Murano Island and Glass Museum (Museo del Vetro)
Description: Murano Island is famous for its glass-making traditions, and the Glass Museum showcases Venetian glass art dating back centuries.
History: Glassmakers moved to Murano in 1291 to reduce fire risks in Venice. Since then, the island has become synonymous with world-class glass art.
Google Maps: Murano Glass Museum Location
Official Website: Murano Glass Museum
Tickets: Book Tickets – €12
Opening Hours: Daily, 10 AM – 5 PM
Travel Options: Vaporetto Line 3 (Murano Museo stop)
Tips: Watch live glass-blowing demonstrations for an unforgettable experience.
6. Bridge of Sighs (Ponte dei Sospiri)
Description: The Bridge of Sighs connects Doge’s Palace to the prison and offers scenic views of Venice’s canals.
History: Built in 1600, the bridge earned its name as prisoners would take one last look at Venice and sigh before entering the prison.
Google Maps: Bridge of Sighs Location
Opening Hours: View from outside 24/7
Travel Options: Vaporetto Line 1 or 2 (San Marco stop)
Tips: The best view is from Ponte della Paglia, adjacent to the Doge’s Palace.
7. Gallerie dell’Accademia
Description: This renowned gallery houses an impressive collection of Venetian Renaissance art, including works by Titian, Veronese, and Tintoretto.
History: Established in 1750, it was the first institution to offer art classes in Venice.
Google Maps: Gallerie dell’Accademia Location
Official Website: Gallerie dell’Accademia
Tickets: Book Tickets – €12
Opening Hours: Tue-Sun, 8:15 AM – 7:15 PM; closed Mondays
Travel Options: Vaporetto Line 1 (Accademia stop)
Tips: Plan for at least an hour to fully appreciate the artworks.
8. Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute
Description: This stunning baroque church is dedicated to the Virgin Mary, and its impressive dome is one of Venice’s defining features.
History: Built in 1631 as a plea for deliverance from the plague, it remains a symbol of Venice’s resilience.
Google Maps: Santa Maria della Salute Location
Opening Hours: Mon-Sat, 9 AM – 12 PM, 3 PM – 5:30 PM
Travel Options: Vaporetto Line 1 (Salute stop)
Tips: Free to enter; visit at sunset for breathtaking views of the Grand Canal.
9. Scuola Grande di San Rocco
Description: Known for its lavish interior, the Scuola Grande di San Rocco features Tintoretto’s masterpieces covering walls and ceilings.
History: Established in the 16th century, this scuola (confraternity) was one of the richest in Venice.
Google Maps: Scuola Grande di San Rocco Location
Official Website: Scuola Grande di San Rocco
Tickets: €10
Opening Hours: Daily, 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Travel Options: Vaporetto Line 1 (San Tomà stop)
Tips: Known as the “Sistine Chapel of Venice,” it’s a must-see for art enthusiasts.
10. Jewish Ghetto
Description: The historic Jewish Ghetto offers a look at Venice’s Jewish heritage, with synagogues, museums, and kosher eateries.
History: Established in 1516, it’s considered the world’s first ghetto and remains culturally rich.
Google Maps: Jewish Ghetto Location
Official Website: Jewish Museum of Venice
Tickets: Museum and Synagogue tours – €12
Opening Hours: Daily, 10 AM – 6:30 PM;
11. Fondaco dei Tedeschi
Description: Originally a trading post for German merchants, Fondaco dei Tedeschi is now a luxury shopping center with a rooftop terrace offering stunning views over Venice.
History: Built in the 13th century and later converted to a customs house by Napoleon, it was recently transformed into a high-end retail destination.
Google Maps: Fondaco dei Tedeschi Location
Official Website: Fondaco dei Tedeschi
Tickets: Free entry; rooftop terrace access is free, but reservations are recommended.
Opening Hours: Daily, 10 AM – 8 PM
Travel Options: Vaporetto Line 1 (Rialto stop)
Tips: Book a rooftop slot in advance for panoramic views of the city and Grand Canal.
12. Ca’ Rezzonico
Description: Ca’ Rezzonico is a grand 18th-century palace along the Grand Canal, showcasing Venetian art, furnishings, and frescoes from the 18th century.
History: Built in the 17th century and later completed by Baldassare Longhena, Ca’ Rezzonico served as a residence for the Rezzonico family, one of Venice’s most influential families.
Google Maps: Ca’ Rezzonico Location
Official Website: Ca’ Rezzonico
Tickets: Book Tickets – €10
Opening Hours: Daily, 10 AM – 5 PM; closed Tuesdays
Travel Options: Vaporetto Line 1 (Ca’ Rezzonico stop)
Tips: Don’t miss the view from the Grand Canal-facing windows for a classic Venetian experience.
13. San Giorgio Maggiore Island
Description: This serene island offers a unique view of Venice and is home to the Church of San Giorgio Maggiore, an architectural masterpiece by Palladio.
History: Founded in the 10th century, the island’s church and bell tower have become iconic landmarks and offer one of the best vantage points of Venice.
Google Maps: San Giorgio Maggiore Location
Tickets: Bell tower access – €6
Opening Hours: Daily, 9 AM – 6 PM
Travel Options: Vaporetto Line 2 (San Giorgio stop)
Tips: Climb the bell tower for unbeatable views of St. Mark’s Square and Venice’s lagoon.
14. Peggy Guggenheim Collection
Description: This modern art museum, housed in the former home of art collector Peggy Guggenheim, features works by Picasso, Dalí, Pollock, and other renowned artists.
History: Peggy Guggenheim bought the palazzo in 1948, dedicating it to modern art. It opened to the public in 1980 and is now a key cultural institution in Venice.
Google Maps: Peggy Guggenheim Collection Location
Official Website: Peggy Guggenheim Collection
Tickets: €15
Opening Hours: Daily, 10 AM – 6 PM; closed Tuesdays
Travel Options: Vaporetto Line 1 (Accademia stop)
Tips: Visit the sculpture garden, and don’t miss the view of the Grand Canal from Guggenheim’s terrace.
15. Lido di Venezia
Description: Lido is a long barrier island known for its beaches and the annual Venice Film Festival. It offers a tranquil escape from Venice’s historic center.
History: Once an exclusive beach destination in the early 20th century, Lido remains popular for its serene beaches and relaxed atmosphere.
Google Maps: Lido di Venezia Location
Opening Hours: Public beach open 24/7; beach amenities are seasonal.
Travel Options: Vaporetto Lines 1, 5.1, 5.2 (Lido stop)
Tips: Consider renting a bike to explore the island or enjoy the beach in the morning for fewer crowds.
16. Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute
Description: This baroque basilica, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, is famous for its striking white facade and massive dome at the entrance of the Grand Canal.
History: Built in the 17th century as a dedication for deliverance from the plague, it’s an enduring symbol of Venice’s resilience.
Google Maps: Santa Maria della Salute Location
Opening Hours: Mon-Sat, 9 AM – 12 PM, 3 PM – 5:30 PM
Travel Options: Vaporetto Line 1 (Salute stop)
Tips: The best time to visit is sunset for spectacular views over the Grand Canal.
17. Scuola Grande di San Rocco
Description: Often called the “Sistine Chapel of Venice,” this building is filled with Tintoretto’s masterpieces, covering the ceilings and walls.
History: Built in the 16th century, this scuola served as a confraternity and became one of Venice’s wealthiest religious institutions.
Google Maps: Scuola Grande di San Rocco Location
Official Website: Scuola Grande di San Rocco
Tickets: €10
Opening Hours: Daily, 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Travel Options: Vaporetto Line 1 (San Tomà stop)
Tips: Take time to appreciate Tintoretto’s massive paintings on the ceilings and walls.
18. Fondamenta delle Zattere (Zattere Promenade)
Description: A popular waterfront promenade offering beautiful views of the Giudecca Canal, Zattere is ideal for leisurely strolls, dining, and enjoying Venice’s sunset.
History: Zattere was historically used for unloading timber, and today it’s a favorite local spot for walking and enjoying the scenic waterfront.
Google Maps: Zattere Promenade Location
Opening Hours: Open 24/7
Travel Options: Vaporetto Line 2 (Zattere stop)
Tips: Visit at sunset for picturesque views and grab some gelato from nearby cafes.
19. Ca’ d’Oro (Golden House)
Description: Ca’ d’Oro is a 15th-century palace on the Grand Canal, featuring a stunning gothic facade and housing an art museum with works by Venetian masters.
History: Known as the “Golden House” for its once-gilded exterior, Ca’ d’Oro has been meticulously restored and serves as an art gallery today.
Google Maps: Ca’ d’Oro Location
Official Website: Ca’ d’Oro
Tickets: €6
Opening Hours: Tue-Sun, 8:15 AM – 7:15 PM; closed Mondays
Travel Options: Vaporetto Line 1 (Ca’ d’Oro stop)
Tips: Don’t miss the courtyard and balconies with views over the Grand Canal.
20. Teatro La Fenice
Description: One of Italy’s most famous opera houses, Teatro La Fenice has hosted numerous world-renowned performances and remains a top cultural venue.
History: Originally opened in 1792, La Fenice has burned down and been rebuilt twice, symbolizing resilience and “rising from the ashes.”
Google Maps: Teatro La Fenice Location
Official Website: Teatro La Fenice
Tickets: Book Tickets – prices vary by performance
Opening Hours: Daily tours available; performance times vary
Travel Options: Vaporetto Line 1 (Santa Maria del Giglio stop)
Tips: If you’re not attending a performance, book a daytime tour to explore this iconic theater’s history.
