Also available in:
Español
Venice is the enchanted crown of Northern Italy. The atmosphere of the islands mesmerizes everyone who visits. The bridges, churches, the Grand canal, and the gondolas give a unique soul to this town. Although Venice is a small island, every neighborhood has something special to offer. The crucial question you will be asking though is what you must see in Venice! While there is a lot to see we have narrowed down the 8 Things to See in Venice, especially if you have limited time on the island.
The Venice Lagoon Lido is much bigger than you might think, the lagoon has a total of 118 islands. This main island, which is the historical center of the city, is often what people think of when they hear about Venice. This is most likely where you will start your journey before exploring the other islands. It is a good base to come back to while you find the hidden gems in the outer parts of the city.
1.PIAZZA SAN MARCO
If there is only one place you have to visit while you are in Venice, it is the Piazza San Marco. This is the main square of the island and it is truly something for you to see! The piazza is one of Italy’s most well known and famous squares. It is also home to the Doge’s Palace, Basilica di San Marco, Torre dell’ Orologio, Campanile di San Marco and also the Correr Museum.
The square is quite large and has been an important site for the history of Venice. Architecturally, it is quite impressive and buildings like the San Marco Basilica have been there since the year 800! You can spend hours exploring the square and absorbing its rich history and architecture, it has to be at the top of your list if you are coming to Venice.
2. PALAZZO DUCALE
Located directly behind the Basilica di San Marco, is the Palazzo Ducale, known in English as Doge’s Palace. The building was the site of many political and government meetings. It was also the residence of the Doge, himself.
Built in 1340, the building is in a Gothic style with Byzantic and oriental details. Inside, there are several different rooms that serve various functions. Some were meant for political meetings, ambassadors, small cabinets, for international discussions and other political purposes. It was a multifunctional residence for the Doge.
In order to see inside of Palazzo Ducale, you need a buy a ticket which will also give you access to other museums in the Piazza San Marco. The cost of the ticket is €20 for adults. You will also get access to the Correr Museum, Archeological Museum, and the National Library Museum.
3. LA BIENNALE DI VENEZIA
La Biennale di Venezia used to be a contemporary visual art festival that has now become a full-fledged museum. Nowadays, they have events for various forms of art like cinema, music, dance, theatre, film, and architecture.
Their events take place throughout the year so make sure to check what exhibits or festivals they are holding during your visit. Tickets are €26.50 but you should try and book your ticket in advance as it can get very crowded! Also, don’t forget to stop by the amazing biennale garden which overlooks the sea!
4. CAFE FLORIAN
Caffe Florian is the oldest coffee house in both Venice and Europe. It dates back to the 1720s and it is located in the middle of Piazza San Marco. It was very popular among women back in the day as it was one of the only cafes they were allowed in. This is also why it was frequented by Casanova.
Nowadays, its a place for everyone and it continues to have its classic and elegant style. It is a truly iconic spot in Venice! The ambiance is sophisticated and the service is impeccable! You can choose if you want to sit down inside and experience the traditional cafe design or outside where you can watch the square and the basilica. Enjoy their coffee or maybe if you are feeling for it you can enjoy a Bellini.
5. CARNEVALE DI VENEZIA
Once you get off at the Santa Lucia train station in Venice, you will notice the famous Venetian mask from the moment you reach the stairs. These masks are a prominent symbol of the city. Carnevale di Venezia is the biggest and oldest festival in Venice. It is famous for having elaborate and beautiful mask and costume competitions. It occurs in the month of February every year, so if you happen to be there during the festival you will be in for a treat!
The mask was a big part of the high society in Venice during the 17th century. Doge banned wearing masks except for the Carnevale and the official events. This is why they continue to play such a big role in the celebrations today. If you are going to visit during the event, don’t forget to bring your own mask or costume. Who knows, maybe you might even win a competition!
6. TEATRO LA FENICE
Right next to Chiesa di San Fantin is the La Fenice Theather. This building was very prestigious back in the day for opera, theatre, ballet, symphony, and classical concerts and it continues to be up to this day! There are different halls within the building, this includes the theatre hall, Apollonian Halls, Foyer, and Malibran Hal.
If you would like to go to see a show you will have to book in advance as they are very popular amongst locals and tourists. You can also join the moonlight tour of the Opera where you will be guided around after the shows – this also includes cocktails. There is also a day time tour if that suits you better! You will feel like you are traveling back in time in here, as you will be within the walls of this piece of history, which is so reminiscent of life in the old Venice.
7. A REAL BACARO
What to eat in Venice? This is a question many people ask even before stepping onto the island. The best answer would be to go to a bacaro. A bacaro is a wine bar, in the Venetian dialect. It is a local tradition to visit a bacaro for a happy hour drink and eat some finger food. We recommend going to Cantina Do Mori.
The best way to enjoy the food in Venice is to eat like a local and this is as local as it gets! Make sure to grab a Prosecco and order a bunch of snacks – cicchetti is a great option. Bacaros are the heart and soul of the Venetian eating and drinking culture and certainly should be a part of your Venice trip.
8. GRAND CANAL
Ah, the Venetian canals! Is there anything more romantic than a canal with a gondola carrying a couple? The Grand Canal is what makes Venice the floating city – it the essence of this magical island. The canal will lead you towards the best attractions of the area as well.
The famous bridge of the island is also settled on the Grand Canal itself – Ponte di Rialto. The bridges are amazing to see when you are in the gondola. They are beautiful structures and they are literally everywhere!
You can also walk along the paths by the river if you don’t take a gondola ride. Around there you can grab a gelato from one of the city’s gelaterias or grab a drink from a local bar to accompany your experience. Just relax and wander around!
Also available in:
Español