The top 21 attractions in Venice, Italy

Who doesn’t dream of visiting the floating city? A living tapestry of history and art, Venice feels like a storybook come to life.

With around 118 islands linked by approximately 400 bridges, there’s an abundance of

What are the must-see activities in Venice?

With stunning palazzos, transformative art, iconic architecture, and exquisite cuisine, Venice truly lives up to its legendary status. From Piazza San Marco to the Grand Canal and the Rialto Bridge, its list of “must-see” sites is extensive and remarkable.

However, the real enchantment of Venice is found in its winding streets, quirky buildings, and the deep-rooted traditions that characterize much of this Italian gem. Taking the time to venture off the tourist trail allows you to connect with the locals and discover what makes you fall in love with Venice.

The city is facing challenges, too. Overtourism has a significant impact, so visitors must commit to preserving its heritage and future. Support local artisans by purchasing genuine souvenirs, dine in traditional, family-run eateries, and plan your visits to major attractions outside peak hours. This way, you’ll enjoy a more fulfilling experience, and the city will appreciate your efforts.

Here’s our selection of the 21 top activities in Venice, Italy right now. If you need additional assistance planning your Venice adventure, check out our Venice Travel Guide.

1. Glide along the Grand Canal

While in Venice, it’s essential to begin your journey on the canal. Although strolling through the city is a pleasure, the waterways provide the most stunning views of the beautiful palazzos and bridges.

The Grand Canal is the main attraction, and you have several options to explore it. Gondolas are the priciest choice, so consider taking a vaporetto instead. These water buses navigate the canals and lagoon. Lines 1 and 2 are the central routes that cruise along the Grand Canal. Hop on vaporetto 1 and keep an eye out for numerous palazzos, churches, and palaces as you glide by. You’ll pass under the modern glass bridge, the Della Costituzione.

On your right, watch for the Veneto-Gothic Fontego dei Turchi, home to the Museo di Storia Naturale (natural history museum). Be sure to admire the stunning facade of the Ca’ d’Oro before passing under the Ponte di Rialto. Finally, look left to spot a series of magnificent palazzos, including the Grassi, Malipiero, and Franchetti.

Disembark at Salute at the lagoon's entrance, and you’ve completed one of the world’s most scenic bus routes. Single vaporetto tickets can be expensive, so if you plan to use them frequently, consider purchasing a one-day or multi-day pass to save some money.

2. Spend a day at Piazza San Marco

For many travelers, a walk through St Mark’s Square is the quintessential first experience in Venice, and it's easy to see why. This iconic public square is a harmonious blend of historical and architectural marvels. The Basilica di San Marco boasts stunning peaked domes and dazzling gold interiors, while the intricate fortifications of the Palazzo Ducale (Doge’s Palace) whisper tales of a tumultuous past.

The Museo Correr ranks among Venice’s premier museums, highlighting the city’s rich cultural and historical heritage. The two towers are also must-sees, not just for their breathtaking views of Venice. The Torre dell’Orologio, or St. Mark’s Clock Tower, is a remarkable 500-year-old piece of technology, and St Mark’s Campanile stands as Venice’s tallest structure.

Conclude your day with some cicchetti and a spritz at one of the charming cafés lining the piazza. Keep in mind that St Mark’s Square is the lowest point in Venice and can flood during the Acqua Alta. If you’re not equipped with rubber boots, check the forecast before your visit, although authorities do set up wooden walkways to help keep visitors drier.

Dinogo top tip: Eating or drinking in St Mark’s Square is not allowed. If you want to avoid the steep café prices, make your way to the nearby Giardini ex Reali, a beautiful garden perfect for a peaceful picnic.

3. Get lost in the wonders of the Palazzo Ducale

Known as Doge’s Palace in English, the Palazzo Ducale is the highlight of Venice’s expansive museum scene. Once the center of power and a prison, it holds a vast collection of tales, history, and some of the most remarkable artworks ever made.

Instead of attempting to see every single painting, fresco, and stunning piece of furniture, focus on what fascinates you the most. This might mean a quick look at the Bridge of Sighs, where many condemned souls once took their last glance, and skipping the eerie prison. Immerse yourself in the sheer luxury of the palace and let its history and opulence envelop you.

A standard ticket allows entry to the Doge’s Palace and several other attractions. Be prepared for long lines, so consider purchasing a fast-track ticket to bypass the queue.

4. Find tranquility at Chiesa di San Sebastiano

A charming escape from the bustling crowds of Piazza San Marco is the Church of San Sebastiano. This relatively unassuming 16th-century church houses some of the most significant works by one of Venice’s Renaissance greats, Paolo Veronese.

What truly sets it apart is the painstaking restoration carried out by the non-profit group Save Venice. Over more than ten years, they have revitalized most of the church, focusing particularly on Veronese’s ornate wooden ceiling, canvases, and frescoes, returning them to their original splendor. The results are breathtaking.

Open daily until 17:00, except Sundays, but it closes for lunch.

5. Splash colors on Burano

In sharp contrast to the classical charm of Venice, the fisherman’s island of Burano is adorned with vibrantly painted, multicolored homes. Just a 40-minute Vaporetto ride from the main island, this spot offers a refreshing change of pace if the wonders of Venice become too much. The colorful houses have also turned into an Instagram sensation, so be mindful of wayward selfie sticks.

The island is renowned for its exquisite lacework, highlighted at the Museo del Merletto. For a break from the crowds, consider a private tour of the beautiful northern lagoon with a local fisherman.

And when hunger strikes, head to one of the fantastic local trattorias scattered around. A top choice might be the Barbaro family-owned Trattoria da Romano; don’t miss the risotto di Gò, a beloved local delicacy.

6. Discover the art of glass on Murano

The vaporetto to Burano makes a stop at Murano along the way. Step off and you’ll find yourself in glass-blowing paradise, where artisans have practiced their craft for centuries.

At the Museo del Vetro, you can learn about the art of glass blowing and gain insight into how these incredibly intricate pieces are crafted. If you’re looking for a glass souvenir, visit Salviati, one of the island’s most esteemed and historic glass-makers, which has a showroom open to visitors.

While exploring Murano Island, take the chance to wander along its charming waterfront palazzos and visit a couple of its churches. San Pietro Martire is especially beautiful, featuring artworks by Tintoretto and others.

7. Purchase a book from Libreria Acqua Alta

Bookshops are truly magical places. They serve as gathering spots and welcoming havens, often acting as hyper-local hubs that support their communities for decades. Many embody the spirit of their surroundings.

This is especially evident at the quirky Libreria Acqua Alta, known as “the bookshop of high water,” located on Calle Longa Santa Maria Formosa, near Piazza San Marco. The term Acqua Alta refers to the phenomenon that periodically floods Venice’s already waterlogged streets, for which this bookshop has devised an ingenious solution.

Step inside its series of snug (albeit cramped) rooms overflowing with new and vintage books, and you'll find them stacked high off the ground, often in bathtubs, sinks, canoes, and even a gondola. Managed by the friendly Luigi Frizzo, this delightful spot is open daily and is also home to four cats (as of the last count).

8. Walk across the Ponte di Rialto

Among the roughly 400 bridges connecting Venice's islands, none is more beloved than the Rialto. Constructed from Istrian stone, it shines over the Grand Canal and transforms in appearance throughout the day, so feel free to return at various times.

Shops are integrated into its structure – don’t miss Leon Doro for stunning papier-mâché Venetian masks. It’s always worth pausing for a photo over the Grand Canal as you cross, especially at sunset, but brace yourself for some jostling as tourists vie for the best angle.

Once you cross the bridge, be sure to visit Mercato di Rialto, the city's primary food market for the last thousand years. Always teeming with locals and tourists, if you snap photos, consider buying something as a courtesy – it’s an active market (and the produce is outstanding).

9. Drift away on a gondola

A quintessential part of any trip to Venice, a ride through the canals in a gondola is a delightful cliché. Gondoliers, dressed in black trousers, striped shirts, and banded straw hats, once filled the canals by the thousands, but now only about 600 remain.

Before you hop on, though, consider a few things. First, they’re quite pricey. A 30-minute ride costs €80 during the day and €100 after 19:00. If you book through a hotel or agency, expect to pay more, so it's best to settle the fee directly with the gondolier. While they can carry up to six people, sharing can help lower costs but might not enhance the romantic vibe of the experience.

Skip the Grand Canal, which often resembles a traffic jam of gondolas. Instead, explore the quieter back canals and choose a lesser-known neighborhood to discover. You can find gondoliers ready for such an adventure around San Polo and Campo San Barnaba.

10. Marvel at Tintoretto’s masterpieces at Scuola Grande di San Rocco

Many great masters found inspiration in Venice, leaving their mark on the city. If Tintoretto is among your favorites (or even if he isn’t), head to the Scuola Grande di San Rocco.

Founded in 1478, this lay confraternity (a brotherhood often focused on charity or religion) is the only historic Scuola Grande to endure the collapse of the republic. Its impressive headquarters were adorned by Tintoretto in honor of the end of the plague in 1576, which claimed a third of the city’s inhabitants.

Across two floors, you’ll find over 60 vibrant Biblical scenes by Tintoretto decorating the walls and ceiling of the Ground Floor Hall, Chapter Room, and Sala dell’albergo. A fitting tribute to one of Venice’s true masters. Open daily, and don’t miss the nearby Church of San Rocco for even more Tintoretto works.

11. Explore Peggy Guggenheim’s art collection and final resting place

The niece of renowned art collector Solomon Guggenheim, Peggy Guggenheim built one of the most significant private art collections in the world. She opened it to the public in 1979, after spending decades curating her collection in a partially constructed palace she acquired 30 years earlier in the tranquil Dorsoduro district of Venice.

Come to admire works by legendary artists in surrealism, abstract expressionism, avant-garde sculpture, and cubism. Don’t forget to visit her private palazzo, Venier dei Leoni, connected to the museum, where you’ll find a plaque marking the spot where her ashes are scattered alongside those of her cherished “babies” – her 14 Lhasa Apso dogs.

Open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, except on Tuesdays. It’s best to book your time slot online as they often sell out, particularly during peak season, and guided tours are also offered.

12. Unwind at the beach

After absorbing so much art and history, a visit to one of Venice’s beaches provides a perfect respite from the cultural intensity.

The nearest beach, often dubbed Venice Beach, is Lido di Venezia. It’s long and narrow, frequently bustling with people, and dotted with beach clubs, hosting various festivals. For a quieter option, head to Spiaggia Ca’ Roman on Pellestrina Island, nestled in a protected area maintained by LIPU, the Italian bird conservation organization.

13. Indulge in as much cicchetti as you can

Much like the pintxos of San Sebastian and tapas of Barcelona, Venetians thrive on cicchetti. These small, delectable bar snacks are a staple found on the counters of every bacaro, the charming Venetian wine bars and taverns scattered throughout the city.

You can’t truly enjoy cicchetti without an ombra, the petite glasses of wine also served in a bacaro. With an abundance of options, it’s best to simply pop into any that catch your eye rather than meticulously plan your visit. Or, if you're up for it, embark on an “andar a ombra” – the classic Venetian bar crawl.

14. Satisfy your sweet tooth at I Tre Mercanti

Embracing local cuisine doesn’t solely mean dining in traditional family-run trattorias and bacari. In 2007, three Venetians established I Tre Mercanti in Calle al Ponte de la Guerra, a charming deli offering exquisite foods, wines, and legendary Tiramisù — Venice’s signature dessert. While they feature a variety of twists and flavors, the classic combination of coffee, mascarpone, and cocoa is unbeatable. Stop by to savor it fresh, as they prepare it hourly right in the shop window.

15. Encounter the Vitruvian Man at Gallerie dell’Accademia

Modest by Venetian standards, the Gallerie dell’Accademia lies just across from the Ponte dell’Accademia along the Grand Canal. Step inside, and you'll discover a wealth of treasures featuring Renaissance and pre-19th century artwork.

Among the illustrious names featured are Tintoretto (again), Bellini, Canaletto, Titian, and Veronese (again), to name just a few. However, my personal favorite is a simple drawing – Da Vinci’s Vitruvian Man, the iconic depiction of the human male figure in perfect proportion.

While it may not always be on view due to its age and delicacy, even if you miss seeing the Man himself, the collection of masterpieces surrounding it will keep you thoroughly engaged. The gallery is open daily, except on Mondays, and while you can purchase tickets on-site, it’s always smart to reserve a time slot online ahead of your visit.

16. Explore Venice’s origins at Torcello

Perhaps the most historically significant of all Venice’s islands, tranquil Torcello in the North Lagoon once stood as a major port, rivaling Venice itself. This is the very place where Venice first emerged around 1,500 years ago.

As its prosperity declined due to shifting canals and overwhelming mosquito plagues that spread malaria, the inhabitants abandoned the island, taking their buildings with them. What remains is an extraordinary and atmospheric island that is well worth the boat ride to explore.

Make your way to the somewhat eerie Venetian-Byzantine cathedral, Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta, also known as Torcello Cathedral. Famous for its vibrant mosaics, including the Harrowing of Hell, the site also features a Campanile bell tower that offers breathtaking views of the island.

17. Embrace your inner Hemingway at Locanda Cipriani

This cozy “inn” boasting stunning views over Torcello has gained a larger-than-life reputation. Owned by the Cipriani family since 1934, it became famous as the preferred retreat of Ernest Hemingway during his visit in 1948. Here, amidst duck hunting excursions, he penned his novel Across the River and Into the Trees.

It has also been a favorite of various members of the British Royal Family, including the late Queen Elizabeth II and the current King Charles. Since then, it has transformed into a haven for the rich and famous, a hotel and restaurant where people come to see and be seen.

Drop by to savor one of its legendary Bellini cocktails, crafted by Giuseppe Cipriani (the founder of the iconic Harry’s Bar) in the summer of 1948, which became a favorite of Hemingway’s, and enjoy it along with the ambiance.

18. Savor bigoli like a local at Al Covo

As you might expect, Venice boasts an abundance of excellent dining options, from casual roadside pizzerias to exquisite Michelin-starred establishments. For something truly local, we adhere to our “family-run” philosophy and direct you to Al Covo.

Established in 1987 on Campiello de la Pescaria, Al Covo is renowned for its fresh seafood and has received accolades for its tasting menu. However, you should definitely try the bigoli first. A Venetian version of traditional spaghetti, bigoli is thicker and softer, typically served with a robust onion and anchovy sauce, making it as authentic as it gets.

Once favored by the workers and clients of local brothels, the vibrant Antiche Carampane is as truly Venetian as any eatery you'll discover. Situated in the red light district on Rio Tera de le Carampane, its rich history is woven into the fabric of the area, and it takes pride in that heritage.

Make sure to try the Venetian classic Sarde in Saor, which features deep-fried sardines marinated in onions and sweet vinegar, followed by cuttlefish in black sauce. The menu changes seasonally, sourcing ingredients from the nearby Rialto Market for guaranteed freshness.

19. Go bridge crazy

With over 400 bridges connecting the top attractions in Venice, you might quickly grow indifferent to the city’s bridges. However, if you dig deeper, you'll uncover fascinating tales behind many of them.

For generations since the 1600s, fist-fighting on bridges has been a cherished tradition among Venetians. Rival clans would converge to try to knock each other into the sewage-laden canals below as a point of pride—how charming!

Many bridges bear names that reflect this history (like Ponte della Guerra), but the most renowned is likely the Ponte dei Pugni, or bridge of fists, located in Dorsoduro. Look closely, and you'll spot white marble footprints that mark the starting points for the fighters.

20. Choose from a selection of churches with a Chorus Pass

It’s said that Venice boasts a church for every day of the year, with much of the city’s finest art tucked away within them. While you can’t see them all, there are several that are absolutely worth your time.

Beginning with a sense of simplicity and age, the Church of San Giacomo di Rialto is considered by some to be the oldest church in Venice, allegedly consecrated on March 25, 421—the very day Venice was founded. However, recent research suggests it may actually date to 1152. Located near the Rialto Bridge, it’s worth visiting for its remarkable one-handed clock, which features a rotated quadrant placing midday on the left and midnight on the right.

Don’t overlook the stunning marble gem of Santa Maria dei Miracoli and the Church of San Giovanni Elemosinario, renowned for its exceptional artwork by Titian and Pordenone.

With so many churches to explore, investing in a Chorus pass is a smart choice. This pass grants you access to 16 of the most remarkable churches in Venice for approximately €14, and it’s valid for an entire year.

21. Ascend the spiral staircase at Scala Contarini del Bovolo

Nestled in the heart of Sestiere San Marco is the stunning Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo, famous for its remarkable spiral staircase known as the bovolo or “snail”.

Constructed in the late 15th century, this staircase was an addition to the original palazzo, designed to reflect the Renaissance aesthetics of the era and to showcase the opulence of the Contarini family, one of Venice’s founding clans. Its striking design made the term bovolo synonymous not only with the palazzo but also with that branch of the Contarini family.

Rising to ninety feet, the staircase is adorned with a series of layered loggias and winds its way up six levels of alternating red cotto bricks and white Istria stone. It exhibits a blend of Renaissance, Gothic, and Byzantine architectural styles, making it the most impressive staircase in Venice.

Ascend its 80 steps to be rewarded with breathtaking views of the city’s skyline. However, visitor numbers are limited, so be sure to book your tickets online in advance and follow the directions closely, as the entrance is somewhat hidden.

What criteria did we use to curate our guide to the 21 best activities in Venice?

Venice is a destination you can never explore too often. Each visit unveils new incredible churches, museums, and dining spots that beckon for a return. This abundance makes it both easy and challenging to compile a list of our top recommendations for experiencing the city.

Nevertheless, we’ve worked hard to gather the collective insights of team Dinogo, transforming our personal favorites into a well-rounded selection. From major landmarks to quirky attractions, exquisite dining, and classic street food, we hope you mix and match to create the vacation you’ve always envisioned. After all, this is Venice.

Is a car necessary in Venice?

There’s no place on earth where having a car is less necessary than in Venice!

What’s the best time to visit Venice?

Venice is enchanting throughout the year, offering plenty to explore both indoors and outdoors. The summer months can be oppressive and plagued by crowds, so consider visiting during the off-peak seasons like winter for a more pleasant experience. Just keep an eye on the Acqua Alta—those seasonal high tides that often inundate large parts of the city, including Piazza San Marco.

How much time should I spend in Venice?

If you’re planning a weekend getaway, whether it’s romantic or just for fun, focus on a few key attractions and then spend the rest of your time exploring the streets, getting delightfully lost, and enjoying cicchetti and ombra at local bacari (see number 13).

Is Venice a safe destination?

Venice boasts one of the lowest crime rates in Europe, making it very safe to stroll around both day and night. Designed with tourists in mind, street crime is uncommon, even in the less appealing and more intimidating alleys.

In reality, you’re more likely to accidentally tumble into the canals than to become a victim of crime, especially on crowded days. So watch your step while gazing up at the stunning sights of Venice.

Are there tourist passes available in Venice?

Absolutely, there are several options. If you’re a fan of churches, grab a Chorus pass for access to 17 remarkable churches throughout the city. For transportation, consider a multi-day vaporetto pass if you plan to frequently use the water taxis, as individual fares can add up quickly.

For convenience, the City Pass is available in various packages that offer discounts on tickets to multiple attractions. Simply select the one that aligns best with your itinerary.