Top 15 Must-Do Activities in Venice, Italy

Venice is a city characterized by extraordinary beauty and rich historical significance, setting it apart from any other city in Italy. As the capital of the Veneto Region in Northern Italy, Venice comprises 117 small islands interconnected by bridges and a network of canals. With a population of approximately 250,000, Venice is not the largest city in Veneto; however, it stands out as one of the most frequented tourist destinations in the country.

Throughout the Middle Ages and the Italian Renaissance, Venice emerged as a formidable stronghold, functioning as a major financial and military hub. Moreover, it served as a center for significant cultural and artistic advancement, earning global recognition.

Today, Venice continues to hold substantial economic importance and ranks among the world’s preeminent tourist cities; landmarks such as St. Mark’s Basilica and the Grand Canal attract millions of visitors annually to this collection of islands.

Let us delve into the premier attractions in Venice:

1. St. Mark’s Basilica

Undoubtedly the most illustrious building in Venice, St. Mark’s Basilica represents a magnificent piece of architecture that has endured since its construction in 1092, remaining one of the most significant religious structures in Northern Italy.

Every detail of this church is exceptional—from the intricate sculptures and artwork adorning the front facade to the beautifully painted frescoes and Byzantine art within the dome’s ceiling.

Situated in Piazza San Marco, this basilica is easily reachable from the Grand Canal and exemplifies one of the best-preserved instances of Italian Byzantine architecture.

2. St. Mark’s Square

While St. Mark’s Basilica is the most recognizable edifice in Venice, St. Mark’s Square stands out as the most famous piazza.

Located on the Grand Canal, across from the island of San Giorgio Maggiore, this square holds immense importance in Venice and offers a truly spectacular experience.

Encircling the piazza is an array of ornate buildings with arched promenades that beautifully frame the area.

Additionally, several significant structures are located in the square, including St. Mark’s Campanile, St. Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace, and Torre dell’Orologio.

This piazza is an ideal starting point for your exploration of Venice, allowing you to experience some of its most impressive landmarks.

3. Canal Grande

Venice is home to a vast network of canals that interlink the various islands, with the largest being the Canal Grande.

This grand canal resembles a river, traversing through the heart of Venice in a distinctive S-shaped course.

With over 170 historic buildings lining its banks, dating back to the 13th century, this vital waterway has played a significant role in the city’s development for centuries.

Only four bridges cross the Grand Canal, as the majority of people and visitors travel along the waterway rather than across it.

Consider strolling along sections of the canal to admire the architectural beauty and observe the bustling water traffic that characterizes Venice.

4. Ponte di Rialto

As one of the bridges spanning the impressive Grand Canal, the Ponte di Rialto is undoubtedly the most famous and iconic.

This bridge connects the San Marco and San Polo districts of Venice, serving as an essential pedestrian thoroughfare as well as a prominent tourist attraction.

Originally a wooden bridge, it stood for centuries until its collapse in 1524; following this, an ornate stone bridge was constructed and continues to endure today.

The bridge’s design and aesthetic appeal are remarkable, and its symmetry perfectly frames the Grand Canal.

Additionally, a series of shops on the bridge offer a variety of goods, from souvenirs to jewelry.

5. Gallerie dell’Accademia

Located opposite the Ponte dell’Accademia along the Grand Canal, this museum hosts an exceptional collection of pre-19th century art, featuring works by renowned artists such as Bellini, Canaletto, and Titian.

The gallery is housed in a building that was originally a convent, repurposed as a museum in the mid to late 1700s.

For admirers of Renaissance art and iconic masterpieces, this gallery is highly recommended.

Perhaps its most famous piece is the Vitruvian Man by Da Vinci, which illustrates the ideal human proportions.

Other noteworthy works include the Resurrection by Tintoretto, Virgin and the Child by Titian, and the Battle of Lepanto by Veronese.

6. Venice Lido

If you seek a retreat and wish to escape the throngs of tourists, the Lido is the ideal destination.

This separate island creates a barrier between Venice and the Adriatic Sea, featuring a vast stretch of pristine beach to enjoy.

Home to approximately 20,000 residents, the Lido also offers a variety of residential areas, shops, restaurants, and hotels.

With a calmer atmosphere compared to central Venice, Lido serves as a true respite, presenting a stark contrast to the bustling streets and waterways surrounding the Grand Canal.

7. Doges Palace

Among the most recognized buildings in Venice, apart from the Basilica and Campanile, Doges Palace is also situated in St. Mark’s Square, overlooking the Grand Canal.

This exquisitely ornate palace captivates with its stunning façade, featuring a beautiful arched design crafted from white stone adorned with diamond patterns.

The interior is just as impressive, with numerous lavishly decorated rooms that retain original details, furniture, and artwork.

It is advisable to dedicate time to appreciate both the exterior and interior to fully absorb the historical significance of the palace.

8. Bridge of Sighs

Though relatively modest in scale by Venice’s standards, the Bridge of Sighs is one of the most photographed structures in the city and serves as a significant historical landmark.

Spanning the Rio di Palazzo, the bridge connects the Prigioni Nuove to Doge’s Palace.

Legend has it that criminals, while being escorted over the bridge, would cast one last glance at Venice, sighing for their impending punishment and confinement.

While exploring St. Mark’s Square, it is essential to make time to view this iconic bridge.

9. Ride a Vaporetto through the Grand Canal

The Vaporetto serves as the primary mode of transportation in Venice. While one can catch a train to the main station and navigate the city on foot, to fully experience Venice, you must do so from the water! The Vaporetto system is exceptionally efficient, offering one of the quickest ways to reach various islands.

Extended passes can be procured, enabling multiple uses without the need to buy a ticket for each trip.

During your stay in Venice, strive to utilize the Vaporetto as frequently as possible to enjoy the sights and sounds along the waterways.

10. San Marco Campanile

As the tallest structure in Venice, the campanile stands at an impressive height of 98.6 meters.

The current building is a reconstruction, as the original collapsed in 1902. Originally constructed in the 9th century, the campanile served as a watchtower.

Over the years, the tower has suffered damage from fires, earthquakes, and lightning.

Featuring a simple red-brick design, the main shaft appears understated, but the bell housing and pinnacle showcase a multitude of arches and stonework, topped with a golden statue of the Angel Gabriel.

Admire the tower from Piazza di San Marco and consider ascending the elevator for breathtaking panoramic views of Venice.

11. San Giorgio Maggiore

This smaller island, not directly connected to Venice’s main canals, is San Giorgio Maggiore, located a short distance from the Venice Basin and the Grand Canal, accessible by Vaporetto or private water taxi.

The island hosts the magnificent San Giorgio Monastery, the Church of San Giorgio Maggiore, and a tall campanile mirroring that of St. Mark’s Square.

Wander through the small harbor to see various boats moored, explore the remarkable church and monastery, and ascend the campanile for stunning views back towards the main city of Venice.

12. Murano

Murano is another island within the Venice district; this region consists of several smaller islands interlinked by a system of canals and bridges, akin to Venice itself. Murano possesses a delightful charm and is often less crowded than the main areas of Venice.

This enchanting island town boasts numerous attractions, including the Basilica dei Santa Maria, Campo Santo Stefano, and Palazzo Da Mula.

Moreover, Murano is famous for its glassblowing artistry, and visitors can observe live demonstrations at the various factories established here.

13. Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta

Situated in the Cannaregio area of Venice, the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, also known as I Gesuiti, is a splendid building.

The front facade features multiple stone columns, intricately sculpted statues of religious figures, and a wealth of detail—a large bronze door marks the entrance.

Constructed in 1729, this relatively newer church remains significant, with its interior housing impressive artworks such as the Martyrdom of St. Lawrence by Titian.

Additionally, the ceiling features elaborate frescoes and gold detailing, complemented by beautiful motif artwork adorning the walls and columns.

14. Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute

Considered the second most famous church in Venice, the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute is located across the Grand Canal from St. Mark’s and is notable for its distinctive architecture.

With a Baroque design, this church was completed in 1687 and designated as a minor basilica of the Roman Catholic Church.

Positioned prominently on the Grand Canal, the exterior adorns four statues of apostles and features a main dome that dominates the skyline.

The interior evokes a sense of spaciousness, with a hexagonal design that allows ample natural light to enter.

Although not as extravagantly decorated as other churches in Italy, the basilica exhibits a remarkable symmetry that is visually appealing.

15. Torcello Island

If peace and tranquility are what you seek, Torcello Island offers a serene escape, considerably less crowded than Venice’s key attractions.

Located in the far east, Torcello is positioned behind Burano and is approximately 45 minutes from Venice via a regular ferry.

Stroll along Torcello’s main thoroughfare and appreciate the lovely canal until you reach the Church of Santa Maria Assunta, known for its remarkable design.

Furthermore, a dedicated museum detailing the history of this chain of islands is present, along with a variety of shops and restaurants.