20 incredible things to do in Venice, Italy

With stunning waterways swerving through the city, centuries of history dripping from every street corner, and delicious Italian food, Venice truly is a destination like no other.

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Where to stay in Venice

The best area to base yourself in Venice is the San Marco district since it’s the most central and home to the majority of attractions in Venice.

Related: Where to stay in Venice

Best things to do in Venice

1. Explore the Famous Piazza San Marco

When you visit Venice, make sure to explore Piazza San Marco, also known as St. Mark’s Square. This iconic landmark is home to some of the most remarkable buildings in Venice, including the awe-inspiring St. Mark’s Basilica, the magnificent bell tower, and the historic Doge’s Palace.

2. Take in the splendor of St. Mark’s Basilica

The stunning Byzantine-style St. Marks’ Basilica is dedicated to Saint Mark, the city’s patron. This magnificent structure, completed in 1094, stands on the site of two previous churches.

From the outside, marvel at the intricately carved archways resembling delicate lace, adorned with round domes, columns, and blue accents reflecting the building’s eastern influence. Inside, be sure to take a look at the basilica’s renowned golden Byzantine mosaics and the famous Pala d’Oro high altar.

Related: Your Guide to St. Mark’s Basilica

As a popular attraction, the line to enter can be long, so it’s advisable to book tickets in advance. Consider a guided tour that includes the Doge’s Palace or opt for skip-the-line tickets with an audio guide.

If you’re visiting for mass or prayer, you can enter through Porta dei Fiori free of charge.

Book your tickets:
Skip the line St Mark’s Basilica tour
St. Mark’s Basilica with Terrace Access & Doge’s Palace

3. See the view from Campanile di San Marco

St. Marc’s Bell tower with its 99m is the highest building in Venice and offers sweeping views over St. Marc’s square and the town. Best of all? No need to climb any stairs! The original campanile collapsed in 1902 and red brick tower was rebuilt in the 20th century when they incorporated an elevator!

At the top, take in the breathtaking 360° views of Venice and its lagoon. After marveling at the vistas, extend your visit to explore the terrace’s two exhibits—the ancient clock mechanism and a collection of bells that still ring out when called upon!

Book your San Marco Bell Tower tickets

4. Visit Doge’s Palace

The Palazzo Ducale, also known as the Doge’s Palace, used to be the grand residence of the Doge of Venice and the seat of the Venetian government. It’s facade is a remarkable blend of Byzantine, Gothic, and Renaissance architecture.

Inside the palace, you’ll embark on a journey through the magnificent Courtyard, admire the Loggias, and ascend the Scala d’Oro, a stunning staircase adorned with intricate golden details. On the upper floors, explore the Doge’s Apartments, the Institutional Chambers, including the impressive Maggior Consiglio hall, and the Armoury.

Related: Your guide to Palazzo Ducale

But the adventure doesn’t end there. Cross the famous Bridge of Sighs and delve into the chilling Dungeons, where you’ll experience the harsh reality of the prisoners’ cells.

Keep in mind, this popular attraction can have considerable wait times. So, it’s advised to book your ticket in advance to make the most of your visit to the Doge’s Palace in Venice.

Book your tickets:
Doge’s Palace Guided Tour
St. Mark’s Basilica with Terrace Access & Doge’s Palace

5. Take in the breathtaking Bridge of Sighs

The Bridge of Sighs is a baroque-style bridge, built in the 17th century, that served as a pathway from Doge’s Palace to the prisons. As the prisoners crossed, they would peek through the small windows, sighing at the lost freedom. That’s where the melancholic name comes from.

If you’re visiting Doge’s Palace (which you should!), don’t miss the chance to stroll across the Bridge of Sighs! For the best view of the bridge, head to Ponte della Paglia or the porticos of the Doge’s Palace and Prisons’ Palace. But the ultimate experience? Catching a gondola ride and passing underneath! It’s a sight you won’t forget!

6. Enjoy the breathtaking views from Riva degli Schiavoni

Stretching along the Canal Grande east from Piazza San Marco, the Riva degli Schiavoni is a bustling waterfront promenade where numerous gondolas gracefully line the foreground, adding to its picturesque charm.

Despite its crowds, this scenic spot offers unparalleled views and opportunities for capturing stunning photographs. From the Riva, you can enjoy the mesmerizing views of San Giorgio Island and the Basilica di St. Maria della Salute.

7. Visit La Fenice theatre

Teatro La Fenice, also known as the Phoenix Theatre, holds immense significance in Italian history and the world of Opera. Ravaged by fire twice, it was reborn from the ashes in 1996, radiating grandeur and resilience.

While it may appear modest from the outside, inside it is adorned with intricate golden detailing, frescoes, plush red velvet, and magnificent chandeliers.

Book these tickets to visit La Fenice during the day or indulge in an unforgettable evening performance.

Book your La Fenice tour

8. Stroll across Rialto Bridge

The Rialto Bridge, although reconstructed multiple times, stands as the oldest bridge in Venice. This magnificent stone arched bridge consists of two ramps that ascend towards a central portico flanked by rows of charming shops. As one of the primary symbols of Venice, visiting the Rialto Bridge is an absolute must for anyone exploring this enchanting city.

Read next: One day in Venice itinerary

9. Discover the tower at Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo

Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo is a small palace that often gets overlooked and omitted in most Venice itineraries and that really is a shame. Its external spiral staircase and beautiful white arches give this building a truly unique look.

The palace is home to many stories and legends but what really sets it apart is the incredible view from the top of the staircase. Join this walking tour to find this palace and many other hidden corners of Venice.

Book your tour:
Hidden Venice Walking Tour
Ghost stories tour

10. Learn to make pasta from scratch in a cooking class

Italian cuisine is simply unbeatable, isn’t it?! Nothing compares to a steaming plate of homemade pasta, bursting with flavors!

Join this fantastic cooking class to discover the secrets of crafting tagliatelle and ravioli like a true Italian nonna and indulge in the delectable delights of your own culinary masterpieces! Get ready for a mouthwatering adventure. Buon appetito!

Book your cooking class

11. Get lost in a book or cuddle a cat at Libreria Acqua Alta

The Acqua Alta bookstore is a truly unique and captivating place to visit. As you step inside, you are immediately greeted by towering piles of books that stretch from wall to wall, seemingly reaching the heavens. However, what sets this bookstore apart is its intriguing twist!

Situated at a level almost parallel to the adjacent canal, the store has faced the challenge of constant flooding. To safeguard the books, they have ingeniously been placed inside bathtubs, waterproof bins, and even a full-size gondola brimming with literary treasures.

As time went by, the store has transformed into a safe haven for numerous stray cats seeking shelter from the flooding canals. These friendly feline companions offer warmth and company as you make your way among the towering book stacks.

12. Have a blast at the Venice Carnival

The Carnival of Venice is an amazing event that takes place annually for 10 days before Ash Wednesday. It usually happens in February or early March, with varying dates each year and features parades, balls, competitions, and historical traditions, making Venice feel like a journey back in time with costumes from seventeenth-century Venice.

The Carnevale in Venice starts with The Flight of the Angel, where an acrobat jumps off the San Marco Bell Tower and lands on Saint Mark’s Square using a zipline.

If you visit during the carnival (highly recommended!), expect crowds and book your accommodation and tickets well in advance.

13. Learn the art of Venetian mask making

While strolling along the enchanting streets of Venice, you’ll come across numerous shops offering exquisitely adorned Venetian masks. However, why not unleash your creativity and create a truly unique mask of your own?

Join this mask-making coruse where you have the option to choose between a production class or a decoration class, or you can even indulge in both!

Accompanied by a skilled artisan, you’ll be guided through every step of crafting your very own papier-mâché mask. In the decoration class, you’ll have the opportunity to paint and embellish it to your heart’s delight.

Book your mask-making course

14. Explore the eerie side of Venice

Uncover the hidden secrets, ancient myths, and ghostly tales of Venice on this spooky walking tour.

As twilight descends, your knowledgeable guide will lead you through the labyrinthine alleys and ominous squares to the eerie palaces of Venice. Delve into the enigmatic history of the city’s nobility, listen to bone-chilling ghost stories, and unravel the legends surrounding the medieval butcher of Venice.

Book your Ghost stories tour

15. Enjoy the rooftop view at T Fondaco de’ Tedeschi

Located at the foot of the Rialto Bridge, Fondaco dei Tedeschi is a 500-year-old palace that once served as a warehouse. Today, it has been transformed into a luxury shopping mall with a rich history.

Whether you’re drawn in by the shopping, the stunning architecture, or the fascinating stories, the true gem of this place is the breathtaking view from its rooftop terrace.

Accessible free of charge, the T Fondaco de’ Tedeschi rooftop offers panoramic vistas of the Canal Grande and the charming red roofs of Venice. Make sure to book your visit in advance to take advantage of this unforgettable experience.

16. Discover the submerged Crypt of San Zaccaria

When exploring the breathtaking architecture and art in Venice, it’s easy to overlook the Church of San Zaccaria. With its impressive Gothic-Renaissance architecture and captivating artworks, including a breathtaking altarpiece by Bellini, this church is a true gem.

However, the true highlight lies beneath the surface – a fascinating half-submerged crypt of San Zaccaria, adding an extra layer of intrigue to this magnificent place of worship.

17. Capture that perfect shot in Venice

Venice is a treasure trove of hidden corners, each offering incredible photo possibilities. With its labyrinthine streets and picturesque bridges, every turn offers a new and breathtaking photo opportunity.

Whether you choose one of the marked photo spots on the map or wander through the narrow streets, you’re bound to find your own perfect insta-worthy spots. For a truly memorable Venice photo shoot, consider hiring a professional photographer and get dressed up in traditional Venetian costumes.

18. Try the Bellini at Harry’s Bar (or don’t)

Harry’s Bar is where the famous Bellini cocktail was first created by Giuseppe Cipriani Senior in 1948.

The Bellini, a delightful blend of two parts Prosecco, one part white peach purée, and a dash of raspberry or cherry juice, has gained popularity. In the post-war period, this bar drew in notable figures such as Peggy Guggenheim, Katherine Hepburn, Ernest Hemingway, and Charlie Chaplin.

However, despite its deliciousness, the steep price at Harry’s may not be justified. Moreover, the real secret to a truly exceptional Bellini lies in the peach, which is only in season during July.

19. Discover Murano and Burano islands

The vibrant and picturesque islands of Murano and Burano are fabulous day-trip destinations from Venice.

Burano is famous for its charming and vividly colored houses, which create a captivating and cheerful atmosphere. Additionally, the island is renowned for its intricate lacework, showcasing the rich craftsmanship and tradition of the region.

On the other hand, Murano is renowned for its exquisite and colorful glasswork. A visit to a glass factory is an absolute must to witness the skilled artisans creating stunning glass pieces. For those who are feeling adventurous and artistic, there is an opportunity to participate in a glassworking class and craft your own unique Murano glass souvenir.

20. Visit a gallery or museum

With its incredible architecture and rich history, Venice can sometimes feel like a living museum but believe it or not, there’s more! This town is home to some fabulous and world renowned museums and galleries. Below are just a few of the best ones;

Museo Correr – this is the most famous museum in Venice and it is dedicated to Venetian culture, history and art. The entrance ticket to the Museo Correr is also valid for the National Archaeological Museum and the Marciana National Library.

Marciana National Library – among the most prestigious historical libraries in Europe. Its main hall was decorated by Veronese, Titian and Tintoretto.

Ca’ Rezzonico – one of the most fascinating palaces in Venice houses the Museum of eighteenth-century Venice.

Galleria dell’Accademia – the single most influential art gallery in Venice houses works of art by Veronese, Canaletto, Tintoretto, Tiziano and Bellini.

Ca’ Pesaro – International Gallery of Modern Art with a vast collection of nineteenth and twentieth century works of art, including masterpieces by artists like Klimt, Chagall, Kandinsky, Klee and Moore.

Museo Storico Navale di Venezia – this naval history museum dedicated to the maritime history of Venice displays a large number of ships and weapons.

Peggy Guggenheim Collection – A private collection of European and American art from artists such as Georges Braque, Salvador Dalí, Robert Delaunay, Piet Mondrian and Francis Picabia.

Scuola Grande di San Rocco – Tintoretto decorated its walls and ceilings, which took 24 years to complete.