Venice, the “Serene Republic,” is a city unlike any other in the world, built on water and filled with historical, cultural, and architectural treasures. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned visitor, Venice offers a wealth of must-see activities that captivate the imagination and spirit.
In this article, we will guide you through the best things to do in Venice, from exploring its famous canals to discovering its lesser-known neighborhoods and its culinary delights. Prepare to immerse yourself in the magic of this fascinating city.
Discovering Venice early in the morning
The first must-do thing in Venice is to explore the city early in the morning, preferably at sunrise. The beauty of Venice is undeniable, but the crowds and heat can ruin the experience. Waking up early to explore the city is the perfect solution to avoid these problems. You can visit the main sights before the crowds arrive and enjoy the serenity of the place. It is also a unique opportunity to see behind the scenes how a city built on water is run.
Admire Venice from the water
A must-see experience in Venice is admiring the city from the water. Whether you’re on a Venetian gondola, vaporetto, or private water taxi, the views are spectacular. It’s recommended to take a gondola ride in the morning, before the crowds arrive, to fully enjoy the experience. You can also take a rowing class with Row Venice for a more immersive experience. For an affordable option, you can take the Traghetto, a boat that crosses the Grand Canal for just 2 euros.
Feast on Venetian Cichetti
A culinary must-try in Venice is to taste Venetian Cichetti. These small bites are the equivalent of tapas and are very affordable. In the Venetian taverns called Bacari, you can taste specialties like Sarde in Saor, fried sardines served with vinegar and onions, Crostini, slices of toasted bread topped with different preparations, Polpette, fried meatballs, or Croquette Fritte, fried croquettes topped with potatoes, cheese or sometimes fish.
Explore San Marcon Venice
Discover St. Mark's Square
St. Mark's Square is the tourist heart of Venice and is home to some of the city's most iconic sights. To avoid the crowds, it is recommended to visit this square early in the morning or late in the evening. You can admire the Doge's Palace, St. Mark's Basilica and the Campanile, the tallest structure in the city offering incredible panoramic views. Don't forget to check out the impressive clock in the square which not only shows the time, but also the phases of the moon and the signs of the zodiac.
Explore Rialto Venice
The Rialto Bridge is another must-see in Venice. It offers a great view of the Grand Canal and is lined with shops. Try to cross it early in the morning to avoid the crowds. A great vantage point to admire the bridge is the free terrace of the Fondaco dei Tedeschi. This terrace offers great views of the city, but it is advisable to book in advance as places are limited.
Discover other neighborhoods
Visit San Polo Venice
The San Polo district is home to several unique and less-visited attractions. You can visit the Scuola Grande di San Rocco, a treasure trove of Tintoretto's artwork, as well as the Leonardo da Vinci Interactive Museum. Also, be sure to stroll through the Jewish Quarter, where you'll discover five synagogues and the Jewish Museum of Venice. Don't forget to sample local specialties at the neighborhood's bakeries.
Explore Cannaregio Venice
The Cannaregio district is less frequented by tourists and offers many interesting attractions. You can visit the Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo, famous for its impressive spiral staircase, as well as the Teatro La Fenice, a magnificent opera house. A walk through the Jewish Ghetto of Venice is also a must, with its synagogues and museum.
Discover Dorsoduro Venice
Dorsoduro is the perfect neighborhood for art lovers, with renowned museums and galleries such as the Peggy Guggenheim Collection and the Gallerie dell'Accademia. You can also enjoy spectacular views of the city from the Ponte dell'Accademia. Be sure to stop by Campo Santa Maria Formosa to relax and have a drink.
Explore the islands of the Venice lagoon
Finally, consider exploring the other islands of the Venetian Lagoon, such as Burano, famous for its colorful houses, Murano, known for its glassblowers, and Lido, famous for its beach and the Venice Film Festival.
Conclusion
Venice is a city that never ceases to amaze with its beauty and timeless charm. Whether you are looking for breathtaking landscapes, culinary delights or cultural treasures, this city offers unforgettable experiences around every corner and canal. As you explore Venice, take the time to get lost in its alleys, discover its lesser-known neighborhoods and appreciate its rich history and culture. No matter what you choose to do, Venice promises magical moments that will remain etched in your memory. Enjoy your stay in Venice!
Also to know: Discover the 10 most beautiful cities in Europe to visit
