Are you searching for the best things to do in Venice, Italy? Venice is a magical city that always leaves a lasting impression. While famous places like St. Mark’s Square and the Grand Canal are must-sees, a quieter side of Venice is worth exploring.
If you wander off the beaten path, you’ll find hidden alleys, peaceful neighborhoods, and local cafes where Venetians go about their daily lives.
Whether visiting for the first time or returning for more, this guide will help you find the best things to do in Venice, Italy—famous spots and secret treasures. I’ve visited Venice many times to experience more local experiences, and I’m excited to share my favorite places that make it unforgettable.
I’ve always liked to travel without a strict plan. But in Venice, I quickly learned that this approach also doesn’t work.
Venice is a small city and one of the most visited places in Europe, so the best restaurants get booked months in advance, hotels fill up fast, and popular sights require reservations.
Planning goes a long way to make the most of your trip. Here are some tips:
When I tried to book hotels for an October trip in July, many were already full. I recommend booking at least six months ahead, especially if you have a specific hotel in mind.
Top restaurants like Al Covo and Antiche Carampane can be fully booked a month in advance during peak season. It’s best to make reservations 1-2 months ahead. If you can’t book online, try calling three weeks in advance or ask your hotel concierge for help.
Top sights like Basilica San Marco, Campanile di San Marco, and the Doge’s Palace can have long lines. It’s best to pre-book your tickets. If not, you must get there early or be prepared to wait.
Let’s look at the top 20 best things to do in Venice, Italy.
One of the most classic things to do in Venice, Italy, is ride a gondola through the Grand Canal. When I visited Venice, one of the first things I did was take a gondola ride. The Grand Canal is the main waterway, and it was such an incredible experience to see the city from the water. I loved how different everything looked from the gondola!
Sure, it can be a little pricey, but it was worth it, especially since it was my first time in Venice. If you’re looking for something more affordable, you can always take the Vaporetto, Venice’s public waterbus, and still enjoy the beauty of the Grand Canal. Either way, it’s a great way to experience the city’s uniqueness.
One of my favorite things to do in Venice, Italy, was visiting Piazza San Marco. It’s such a famous square, and when I got there, I could see why! In the center of the square is Saint Mark’s Basilica, a fantastic church with beautiful architecture. You don’t want to miss it when you’re in Venice.
I just walked around the piazza, enjoyed the atmosphere, and even grabbed a coffee at one of the cafes. The best part? The Basilica is free to enter! But if you don’t want to wait in a long line, I’d recommend booking a tour. It made my visit even better because I learned more about the place.
One of the most unique things to do in Venice, Italy, is to walk across the Rialto Bridge (Ponte di Rialto). This bridge is one of the most famous landmarks in Venice, crossing the Grand Canal. It’s been around since the 16th century and has much history!
While there, I took some time to enjoy the fantastic views of the canal and the city. I also checked out the little shops along the bridge, and it was so fun to walk around and people-watch. Don’t forget to take some pictures—the Rialto Bridge is one of Venice’s most photogenic places!
After walking across the Rialto Bridge, I decided to check out the Rialto Market, just a short walk away. It’s a busy place where locals buy fresh fruits, seafood, and other stuff. Even if you’re not planning to shop, walking around and seeing how people go about their daily lives in Venice is super fun.
The market has existed for hundreds of years, so it’s a great way to learn about Venetian history. Grab some fresh ingredients here if you’re in the mood for a picnic. It was one of my favorite stops! For a local experience, visiting the Rialto Market is one of the best things to do in Venice, Italy.
Another one of the must-do things to do in Venice, Italy, is visiting the Doge’s Palace. If you’re into history like I am, you can’t miss the Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale) right next to Saint Mark’s Basilica. This vast Gothic palace was home to the Doge, the ruler of Venice. The palace is full of art, history, and fantastic architecture.
I took a tour of the palace, and it was so cool! I observed the majestic halls, an ancient jail, and the renowned Bridge of Sighs linking the palace to the prison. If you would like to learn about the history of Venice, Doge’s Palace is a place you must visit!
Should you find additional time on your journey, consider taking a boat trip to the nearby islands of Murano and Burano. Murano is famous for its glass-blowing workshops, and I watched artists make stunning glass pieces! It’s super cool to see how they work.
Burano has a different vibe. It’s known for its bright, colorful houses, and it’s also famous for making lace. Both islands are a great escape from the busy city, and they’re easy to get to by Vaporetto (Venice’s water bus).
They make the perfect half-day trip to see more of Venice and its beautiful surroundings. Exploring Murano and Burano is among the top things to do in Venice, Italy.
This hidden gem combines history, art, and modern design, making it a unique experience in Venice, Italy. The Fondazione Querini Stampalia is an incredible museum inside a 16th-century building.
It combines a museum, gallery, library, and modern section with a garden designed by the famous architect Carlo Scarpa. The main gallery shows amazing artworks by well-known artists like Palma il Vecchio and Canaletto.
One of the best things to do in Venice, Italy, is to explore the city by water. If you haven’t already taken a gondola, you should try a Vaporetto ride along the Grand Canal. The Vaporetto is like a bus, but instead of driving on roads, it’s a boat that floats along the canal. It’s an easy and cheap way to see Venice from the water.
I loved how relaxing it was to sit back and enjoy the view. From old palaces to busy marketplaces, there’s so much to see. Plus, the Vaporetto is helpful if you want to get around the city and stop at different places. It’s a fun and affordable way to explore Venice!
If you like modern art, exploring the Peggy Guggenheim Collection is one of the best things to do in Venice, Italy. It’s right on the Grand Canal and has a fantastic collection of modern art. You can see works from famous artists like Picasso and Dalí.
It’s a fun way to add some culture to your trip to Venice. Plus, the museum has a peaceful garden where you can take a break and enjoy the quiet away from the busy city. It’s a great spot to relax and enjoy some fantastic art!
Venice has some of the best art in its churches, and with so many churches to choose from, it can be hard to know where to begin. The best way to see them all is by getting a Chorus pass. This pass gives you access to 18 beautiful churches around the city.
The churches are scattered all over Venice, so as you walk around the city, you can stop by and enjoy the art. While all the churches are impressive, some of the best ones to check out are Santa Maria dei Miracoli, a charming small church in Venice, and San Sebastiano, which is filled with paintings and frescoes by the artist Veronese.
Some churches have limited hours, so when you get your pass, ask for a map showing their opening times.
One of the most incredible things to do in Venice, Italy, is to climb the Campanile di San Marco. This is the tall bell tower next to St. Mark’s Basilica, one of the most famous sights in Venice.
When I visited, I took an elevator to the top, and the views were amazing! You can see Piazza San Marco, the Grand Canal, and even the islands. You might even glimpse the Dolomite mountains if it’s a clear day.
It’s a great way to view the city and take incredible photos. I recommend going early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the big crowds. It’s worth it!
One of the more peaceful things to do in Venice, Italy, is to visit Giudecca. It is a hidden gem, and it’s worth visiting.
While it’s become more popular, it has a unique charm, with stylish waterfront restaurants and the famous Belmond Cipriani Hotel. I discovered the peaceful Garden of Eden and rare plants like magnolias.
If you’re looking for a calm and relaxing walk, I recommend checking out the Fondamenta delle Zattere in the Dorsoduro district. This spot has peaceful views of the Giudecca Canal and is a perfect place to take a break from all the sightseeing.
While you’re there, don’t forget to grab some gelato at Gelateria Nico, which is super popular with locals and visitors. Their special treat, the Gianduiotto (a chocolate-hazelnut ice cream bar dipped in whipped cream), is fantastic and a must-try!
Venice isn’t just about canals and bridges—it’s also home to around 500 secret gardens! Most are hidden behind tall walls, but luckily, some are open to the public. I went on a guided tour to check out some of the best ones.
During the tour, I explored beautiful gardens in hidden palaces, quiet courtyards, and even an incredible sculpture garden. I also learned which plants grow best in Venice’s salty soil and the fascinating history of these secret spots. If you love nature, this tour is worth it!
Exploring local markets is another fantastic thing to do in Venice, Italy. Venice has some amazing ones to explore if you love food and markets! I decided to get up early and join a special tour of the Rialto markets before the crowds showed up. It was a super cool experience to see the market come to life as the stall owners set up for the day.
On the 2.5-hour tour, I tried some delicious prawn cicchetti (Venetian snack), watched fishermen prepare local squid, and checked out all the fresh fish, fruits, and vegetables.
If you’re in Venice, stopping at Caffè Florian is a must, even though it’s pretty touristy. Sure, there are many pigeons around, and the violin music can be a little much, but having an espresso here is exceptional.
When I visited, it was the perfect place to relax. I chose to sit inside, away from the crowds. The cafe has several rooms—some with wood panels, some with gold, and others with mirrors.
I sat on a comfy red velvet seat and enjoyed the rich smell of coffee and yummy pastries. It was a fun, old-timey experience that made me feel part of history! Sipping coffee at the world’s oldest cafe is one of the most charming things to do in Venice, Italy.
If you’re into art but don’t want to deal with all the planning, I found a great way to explore Tintoretto’s masterpieces without the stress.
Take a private guided tour to some of the best places to see his work, like the Gallerie dell’Accademia, the Scuola Grande di San Rocco, and Madonna dell’Orto, where Tintoretto is buried.
The tour lasts about two hours, and even though it’s not an affordable option, it’s worth it because the guide makes everything super easy, and you get to learn a lot. It’s a great way to experience Tintoretto’s art without worrying about all the details!
If you’re curious about where gondolas are made, check out the Squero di San Trovaso. Located in a quiet corner of Dorsoduro, this workshop is where some of the 400 gondolas used in Venice get repaired.
It’s not a typical tourist spot, but it’s a real piece of Venetian history, having existed since the 17th century. You can take a guided tour to watch the artisans create the gondolas by hand, making each one special before they’re painted and decorated. It’s a great way to learn about the tradition of gondola making!
Venice is full of hidden neighborhoods; the best way to find them is by getting a little lost! You can either create your itinerary or let the experts show you around.
I explored peaceful areas like Dorsoduro and San Basilio, Venice’s “green” neighborhood, on my tour. I even visited the beautiful Palazzo Ca’ Zenobio and its stunning baroque courtyard.
The tour also included a stop at a floating vegetable market and some quiet, lesser-known churches. The guides also suggested places to grab an aperitif and enjoy authentic local food!
One of the most magical things to do in Venice, Italy, is to watch the sunset from the Skyline Rooftop Bar in Giudecca. If you stay on Giudecca long enough, you’ll experience one of Venice’s best sunset spots.
The Skyline rooftop bar at the Hilton Molino Stucky offers a fantastic view on the eighth floor. This hotel used to be a flour mill, but now it’s home to a chill cocktail bar with a rooftop infinity pool.
When the sun sets, the view is incredible — the sky turns colors like apricots and purple, and you can see Venice’s beautiful buildings, bell towers, and church domes. It feels like something out of a painting! Just remember to book in advance. Plus, they serve Venice-inspired cocktails, and live jazz makes the experience even better.
Fly into Marco Polo Airport, then take the Alilaguna shuttle to Venice. There are three shuttle lines: red, orange, and blue. Check with your hotel for the nearest stop. Alternatively, take a bus to Piazzale Roma and a water bus from there, or book a private water taxi.
Venice has two train stations: Venezia Mestre (on the mainland) and Venezia Santa Lucia (on the island). If you’re staying on the island, book a trip to Santa Lucia. From there, walk or take a vaporetto (water bus).
Cars can’t drive around Venice. Park at Piazzale Roma or Tronchetto, then use public transportation.
Choosing luxury accommodations gave me a peaceful place to relax after exploring Venice. Venice has a hotel whether you want a private island or views of the Grand Canal. Here are my top picks for luxury stays:
Aman Venice, located on the Grand Canal, offers suites with stunning artwork and two exquisite restaurants.
Address: Calle Tiepolo, 1364, 30125 Venezia
Best for: Luxury and elegance
A historic palazzo by the Grand Canal with antique furnishings and a spa.
Address: Campo Santa Maria Del Giglio, 2467, 30124 Venezia
Best for: Elegant decor
It is on a private island and offers a boat shuttle to central Venice, several restaurants, and a spa.
Address: Isola Delle Rose Laguna Di, 30133 Venezia
Best for: Quiet getaway
Planning a trip to Venice? Whether you’re drawn to its picturesque canals, rich history, or incredible cuisine, this enchanting city has something for every traveler. Here’s a guide to help you find the perfect experiences based on your interests:
Venice captivates visitors with its timeless beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, there are endless things to do in Venice, Italy. Every corner of Venice tells a story, from iconic landmarks like St. Mark’s Basilica and the Rialto Bridge to hidden gems in quiet neighborhoods.
Whether you’re gliding through the canals on a gondola, exploring world-class museums, or discovering local markets, there’s always something to experience.
Planning goes a long way in making your trip smooth and unforgettable. Venice always offers something new to explore, no matter how often you visit.
Make the most of your Venice trip by exploring Piazza San Marco, visiting the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica, enjoying a gondola ride on the Grand Canal, and strolling through the charming streets and markets.
Two days in Venice is enough to see the main sights and experience the city’s charm, but it will be busy. You’ll probably need more time to explore and enjoy everything fully.
Venice, Italy, is famous for its unique canals, iconic gondola rides, beautiful architecture, and rich history, which have earned it the nickname “City of Canals” and “The Floating City.”
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