Ah, Venice…there is something about this city that makes it one of the most breathtaking destinations in the world.

From its captivatingly romantic canals to its stunning piazzas and grandiose palaces, Venice truly has something for everyone.

However, if there is one thing that makes Venice even more special, it’s the amazing restaurants the city has to offer.

In this article, I’ll explore 12 wonderful places to explore during your visit so that you can make the most of your time spent discovering “La Serenissima.”

12 Wonderful Places to Visit in Venice, Italy

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St. Mark’s Basilica:

• Architectural masterpiece: St. Mark’s Basilica is a stunning example of Byzantine architecture, adorned with intricate mosaics and marble columns.
• Piazza San Marco: Located in the heart of Venice, the basilica stands in the grand Piazza San Marco, providing a magnificent backdrop.
• Iconic mosaics: The basilica’s interior is adorned with breathtaking mosaics depicting biblical scenes and intricate gold leaf work.
• Pala d’Oro: This dazzling altarpiece is a masterpiece of Byzantine enamel and precious stones, showcasing exceptional craftsmanship.
• Horses of Saint Mark: The bronze horses, once part of a triumphal arch in Constantinople, now adorn the basilica’s facade.
• Treasury: The basilica houses a treasury filled with religious artifacts, including relics, liturgical objects, and precious artworks.
• Terrace and panoramic view: Visitors can ascend to the basilica’s terrace for panoramic views of the city and its iconic landmarks.
• Dress code: To enter the basilica, visitors must adhere to a dress code that includes modest attire and covered shoulders.

Grand Canal:

• Main waterway: The Grand Canal is the primary waterway that winds through Venice, showcasing the city’s unique architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
• Palaces and historic buildings: Along the canal’s banks, you’ll find magnificent palaces and historic buildings, including the Ca’ d’Oro and Palazzo Grassi.
• Vaporetto ride: Taking a vaporetto (water bus) ride along the Grand Canal allows you to experience the charm of Venice from the water.
• Rialto Bridge: The iconic Rialto Bridge spans the Grand Canal and offers picturesque views of the waterway and surrounding buildings.
• Gondola experience: The Grand Canal is a popular route for gondola rides, providing a romantic and quintessential Venetian experience.
• Ponte degli Scalzi and Ponte dell’Accademia: These bridges, along with the Rialto Bridge, offer convenient crossings over the Grand Canal.
• Historic significance: The Grand Canal played a vital role in Venice’s history, serving as a major trade route and a symbol of the city’s wealth and power.
• Spectacular sunsets: Watching the sunset over the Grand Canal is a breathtaking experience, with the canal reflecting the warm hues of the sky.

Rialto Bridge:

• Oldest bridge: The Rialto Bridge is the oldest and most famous bridge spanning the Grand Canal, connecting the districts of San Marco and San Polo.
• Architecture and engineering marvel: Designed by Antonio da Ponte, the bridge’s elegant arches and stone structure have stood since 1591.
• Shops and markets: The bridge is lined with shops and stalls selling jewelry, souvenirs, and fresh produce, creating a bustling and vibrant atmosphere.
• Panoramic views: From the top of the bridge, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Grand Canal, with gondolas gliding beneath.
• Rialto Market: Located near the bridge, the Rialto Market is a lively place to experience the city’s culinary delights, including fresh seafood and local produce.
• Historical significance: The Rialto Bridge holds historical importance as it was once the only pedestrian crossing over the Grand Canal.
• Photographic opportunities: The Rialto Bridge is a popular spot for capturing stunning photographs of Venice’s iconic canal and bustling activity.
• Architectural details: Take note of the decorative reliefs and statues that adorn the bridge, showcasing the artistic craftsmanship of the time.

Peggy Guggenheim Collection:

• Modern art museum: Located in the Palazzo Venier dei Leoni, the Peggy Guggenheim Collection houses an impressive collection of modern art.
• Artistic masterpieces: The museum features works by renowned artists such as Picasso, Pollock, Mondrian, and Dali, showcasing various art movements.
• Sculpture Garden: Visitors can explore the museum’s serene sculpture garden, which offers a tranquil setting to appreciate contemporary sculptures.
• Surrealist and Cubist collections: The collection includes notable works from the Surrealist and Cubist movements, providing insight into their significance.
• Guggenheim family history: The museum also offers glimpses into the life and patronage of Peggy Guggenheim and her contributions to the art world.
• Temporary exhibitions: The museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions, providing opportunities to experience contemporary art and emerging artists.
• Canal-side location: Situated along the Grand Canal, the museum offers picturesque views of the waterway and the Venetian landscape.
• Educational programs: The Peggy Guggenheim Collection offers educational programs, guided tours, and workshops to engage visitors of all ages.

Saint Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco):

• Cultural and social hub: Piazza San Marco is Venice’s principal public square, known for its lively atmosphere and historical significance.
• St. Mark’s Basilica: The square is dominated by St. Mark’s Basilica, with its grand architecture and iconic mosaics.
• Campanile di San Marco: The square is also home to the Campanile, a tall bell tower offering panoramic views of Venice from its observation deck.
• Doge’s Palace: Adjacent to the square is the Doge’s Palace, a magnificent Gothic building that once served as the political center of the Venetian Republic.
• Procuratie: The arcaded Procuratie buildings surround the square and house luxury shops, cafes, and museums.
• Pigeon feeding: Piazza San Marco is famous for the tradition of feeding pigeons, attracting visitors who enjoy interacting with the birds.
• Street performers and live music: The square often hosts street performers, musicians, and orchestras, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.
• Historical events: Piazza San Marco has witnessed significant historical events, including political ceremonies, festivals, and public gatherings.

Murano Island:

• Glassmaking tradition: Murano Island is renowned for its centuries-old glassmaking tradition, producing exquisite glass artworks and products.
• Glass factories and workshops: Visitors can tour glass factories and workshops to witness the intricate glassblowing techniques and craftsmanship.
• Murano Glass Museum: The island is home to the Murano Glass Museum, showcasing a vast collection of historic and contemporary glass art.
• Glass shopping: Murano Island offers numerous shops where visitors can purchase beautiful glass creations, including jewelry, vases, and sculptures.
• Faro di Murano: The island’s lighthouse, Faro di Murano, offers panoramic views of the island and the surrounding lagoon.
• Church of Santa Maria e San Donato: This Byzantine-style church houses stunning mosaics and a renowned reliquary with alleged dragon bones.
• Murano Colonna Vaporetto Stop: Take a vaporetto ride to Murano Colonna and explore the island’s picturesque canals and charming streets.
• Glassmaking demonstrations: Some glass factories offer live demonstrations where visitors can witness the artistry and precision of glassmaking.

Burano Island:

• Colorful houses: Burano Island is famous for its vibrant, brightly colored houses that line its canals, creating a picturesque and cheerful atmosphere.
• Lace-making tradition: Burano is renowned for its intricate lace-making tradition, and visitors can explore lace shops and even witness lace-making demonstrations.
• Scenic canals and bridges: The island’s canals and bridges offer scenic walks and opportunities to capture stunning photographs.
• Museo del Merletto: The Museo del Merletto (Lace Museum) showcases the history and craftsmanship of Burano’s lace industry.
• Local seafood cuisine: Burano is known for its excellent seafood restaurants, offering traditional dishes made from fresh catches of the day.
• Church of San Martino: This 16th-century church is home to notable artworks, including paintings by Tiepolo and Bellini.
• Traditional festivals: Burano hosts various traditional festivals throughout the year, including the Festa di San Martino and the Burano Regatta.
• Shopping for souvenirs: Burano offers a range of shops selling lace products, handmade crafts, and local delicacies, making it a great place for souvenir shopping.

San Giorgio Maggiore Island:

• San Giorgio Maggiore Church: The island is dominated by the San Giorgio Maggiore Church, designed by Palladio and known for its striking architecture.
• Bell tower and panoramic views: Visitors can ascend the church’s bell tower for breathtaking panoramic views of Venice, including St. Mark’s Square.
• Fondazione Giorgio Cini: The island is home to the Fondazione Giorgio Cini, a cultural institution hosting exhibitions, concerts, and scholarly activities.
• Peaceful atmosphere: San Giorgio Maggiore offers a tranquil and less crowded alternative to the bustling streets of Venice, ideal for relaxation and contemplation.
• Gardens and cloister: The island features beautiful gardens and a serene cloister, providing a peaceful retreat surrounded by lush greenery.
• Vaporetto ride: Take a vaporetto from Venice to San Giorgio Maggiore for a scenic journey across the lagoon, enjoying views of the cityscape.
• Photographic opportunities: The island’s architecture, gardens, and panoramic views offer stunning photography opportunities for enthusiasts.
• Sunset visits: San Giorgio Maggiore is particularly captivating during sunset, as the golden light bathes the church and surrounding landscape.

Scuola Grande di San Rocco:

• Renaissance architecture: The Scuola Grande di San Rocco is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture, known for its grandeur and artistic treasures.
• Tintoretto’s artworks: The building houses an extensive collection of paintings by the Venetian artist Tintoretto, including his renowned series of the Life of Christ.
• Sala dell’Albergo: The Sala dell’Albergo features intricately decorated ceilings and walls adorned with Tintoretto’s masterpieces.
• Sala Terrena: The Sala Terrena showcases elaborate woodwork and stunning sculptures, creating an atmosphere of opulence.
• Chapel of the Crucifix: The chapel is adorned with striking artworks, including Tintoretto’s Crucifixion, considered one of his greatest works.
• Richly decorated interiors: Visitors can marvel at the intricate details, gold leaf embellishments, and frescoes that adorn the Scuola’s interiors.
• Artistic significance: The Scuola Grande di San Rocco played a significant role in promoting the arts during the Renaissance period and continues to inspire artists today.
• Cultural events: The Scuola hosts various cultural events, including music concerts and exhibitions, enhancing its reputation as a cultural hub.

Ca’ d’Oro:

• Gothic architecture: Ca’ d’Oro, also known as the Palazzo Santa Sofia, is a prime example of Venetian Gothic architecture, renowned for its ornate façade.
• Golden House: The palace’s name, Ca’ d’Oro, translates to “House of Gold” due to its once-gilded exterior decorations.
• Museum and art collection: The palace now serves as the Galleria Giorgio Franchetti, housing an art collection that includes Renaissance masterpieces and ancient artifacts.
• Courtyard and loggia: The palace features a beautiful courtyard and loggia, offering a peaceful retreat and stunning views of the Grand Canal.
• Tapestries and decorative arts: The museum showcases a collection of tapestries, furniture, and decorative arts, providing insights into Venetian craftsmanship.
• Canal-side location: Ca’ d’Oro’s position along the Grand Canal offers visitors a glimpse into the palace’s former splendor and grandeur.
• Architectural details: Marvel at the intricate stone carvings, delicate tracery, and decorative motifs that adorn the palace’s exterior and interiors.
• Restoration and preservation: The palace underwent extensive restoration efforts to preserve its historic features and maintain its architectural significance.

Santa Maria della Salute:

• Iconic church: Santa Maria della Salute is an iconic basilica located at the entrance of the Grand Canal, known for its prominent dome and striking architecture.
• Baroque style: The church showcases Baroque architectural elements, including its grand dome, elaborate façade, and intricate marble decorations.
• Votive church: Santa Maria della Salute was built as a votive offering in gratitude for the city’s deliverance from the plague in the 17th century.
• Interior design: Step inside to admire the richly decorated interior, featuring beautiful artworks, intricate altars, and stunning sculptures.
• Grand Canal views: The church offers panoramic views of the Grand Canal and the Venetian skyline, making it a popular spot for photography.
• Festivals and processions: Santa Maria della Salute is central to several annual Venetian traditions, including the Festa della Salute in November.
• Promenade along Punta della Dogana: Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along Punta della Dogana, a promenade offering views of the church and the surrounding waterways.
• Spiritual significance: The basilica remains an important place of worship and pilgrimage for locals and visitors alike.

Final Verdict

From the history of Seganeto to the art of San Marco Square, Venice is a city full of wonders and discoveries.

Whether you decide to spend your time exploring quiet alleys or searching for the best view of the Grand Canal view, you’ll find something amazing around every corner.

And if you want to add that extra bit of magic, why not take a romantic gondola ride? With its unique canals and world-class attractions, Venice is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and fascinating cities in Italy.

It’s no wonder why so many people come back year after year – it simply can’t be beaten.

So pack your bags today and prepare to experience one of the world’s most unforgettable cities.

With any luck, you’ll leave with lasting memories that will stay with you forever.