It is rare to find someone who hasn’t heard of the beautiful city of northern Italy, Venice, at least once in their lives. The image of a charming man in a black and white striped shirt driving a gondola through Venice is what you picture when you hear the word. Venice is a favorite destination for tourists from all over the world, but not everyone can afford to visit this stunning gem. If you are planning a trip to Venice Italy and want to know the top things to do there, then look no further. Today’s article will show you 15 of the best things to do in Venice Italy. We hope you are ready, because we have lots of wonderful tips for you!
15 Best Things to Do in Venice Italy
What are the top things to do in Venice Italy, Italy? This city is great for sightseeing, regardless of whether you are traveling alone or with your family. You have a lot of options, so you can’t miss any part of your Venetian experience.
We can help you plan the best possible travel itinerary to explore one of Europe’s most stunning gems. You should check out restaurants and the best day trips to Venice if you’re planning on a trip there. Let’s now take a closer look at the top 15 things you can do in Venice Italy.
1. Piazza San Marco
Piazza San Marco is the heart of Venice Italy. It’s one of the top things you can do in Venice Italy. It is the largest square of Venice, and has played an important part in the history of Venetians. Piazza San Marco, also known as Saint Mark’s Square, is surrounded by religious and governmental buildings. It is the most striking spot in the city.
Did you know Napoleon called the square “the drawing area of Europe”? Stop for a moment and take a look around when you arrive. Admire the beautiful Italian architecture. Get lost in the details at Saint Mark Basilica, Doge’s Palace and the Clocktower. It is fascinating to be enveloped by beautiful buildings with so much history.
You will find the square right at the Grand Canal’s end. If you visit the city during “Acqua Alta”, or high water periods, it is recommended that you wear waterproof shoes. You don’t have to worry, though; the Venetian experience is enhanced by the fact that you will see locals in rainboots at their tables.
2. Basilica San Marco
Basilica San Marco is a must-see on our list of top 15 things to do while in Venice Italy. Basilica San Marco has a rich history dating back over a thousand years. It was built between 829-836 as a church to honor and house the remains of Saint Mark.
The church was severely damaged by fire in 976 during a popular uprising to overthrow Doge Pietro V. Candiano. Two years later, some repairing work was completed and the tomb of Saint Mark was rebuilt with brick vaults. This created a shrine. The Basilica’s history shows that 1062 was a significant year in which the entire church was rebuilt and enlarged.
The basilica has been the cathedral church for the Roman Catholic patriarchate of Venice since 1807. The Basilica’s interior is worth a visit, as well as its exterior. If you don’t know what to do in Venice Italy then visit Basilica San Marco. You will be amazed at the mosaics, altars and the stunning Dome of Creation located in the narthex.
3. Doges Palace
The Doges Palace is found on the side of St Mark’s Square. This gem is one of the most stunning things you can see in Venice Italy. It is made up of ornamentation dating back to the 14th and fifteenth centuries. It is composed of three large blocks. The Doge’s Palace style has seen many changes over the years, as a result of the numerous fires that have effected significant changes.
The palace’s magnificent art and grand staircases are a testament to the wealth and pride of Doges, who ruled over the Venetian Empire. The palace houses paintings by Tintoretto, Titian, and you can get a glimpse of the extravagant rooms and government chambers. This stop is a must-see for anyone who loves history and culture, as well as architecture. It will be a great decision.
4. Grand Canal – One of the most popular things to do in Venice Italy
Piazza San Marco is the perfect place to grab a cappuccino and enjoy the delicious Italian cuisine. It is worth noting that delicious pasta is one the most popular things you can buy in Venice Italy. Admire the Grand Canal from a table on the waterfront.
The Grand Canal is 3.8km long or 2.4 miles in length. It hosts the largest number of people. It connects two of the main islands on which Venice is built. It is easy to see how Venezia looked back in the past when merchant ships were sailing on the sea. It has changed so much yet, it is amazing how little. You can still see magnificent Venetian buildings on both sides of the Canal that bear the memories of grandiose carnivals.
You can see the traditional Venetian water bus, the Vaporetto, crossing the Grand Canal every day. This is the most affordable way to travel on the water. However, it is also one of the best 15 things you can do in Venice Italy. A gondola can be taken on a romantic cruise along the water as well, just like most tourists to Venice.
5. Rialto Bridge
Rialto Bridge is the perfect place to visit if you’re looking for things to do with your family in Venice Italy. Rialto, Venice’s oldest and most well-known bridge, is right in the center of the city. This bridge was built in 1588-1591. It is often crowded by tourists so it’s a good idea to get there early in the morning.
You can find small shops and stalls as you make your way towards the top. This is the best place to go if you are looking for souvenirs.
The Grand Canal’s view from the top is breathtaking. A fresh market can be found on the square below the bridge. It is also a popular spot to grab a drink or a snack at night.
6. Venice Opera House
La Fenice, Venice Opera House, is a must-see for any traveler looking for culture. This is one of the most beautiful places in Venice Italy.
La Fenice, the most famous landmark in the history and culture of Italian theatre, is a treasure. It was opened for the first time in 1792. It was a major opera house until 13 December 1836. The opera house almost lost its entire value when it caught fire that night.
Despite its massive damage, the opera house was rebuilt within a year. It was reopened on 26 December 1837. Take a moment to admire La Fenice’s beautiful entrance façade before you begin exploring the interior. You can take a look at Sala Grande and then walk through the Foyer. Don’t forget the Royal Box with its rich splendor decorations.
7. Venetian Ghetto
It is a must-see for any true traveler. A walk around this area is a must-do in Venice Italy if you’re planning to visit. Why? It was established in 1516 as the first ghetto in the world. Venetia, the oldest Jewish ghetto in the world, is actually what we said!
The Venetian Republic used back then to bind Jews to this area of the city. It became quickly one of the most commercially active and developed Venetian areas, home to many shops and vendors selling every type of merchandise.
This area is home to many Jewish residents. This area is home to many Jewish restaurants and synagogues. There are also bakeries that offer traditional Jewish food. You will instantly fall in love with the charm of this city and feel its rich history as soon as you get there. The Jewish Museum of Venice is a great place to learn more about Venetian Jewish history. You can learn more about Jewish life, and you can also enjoy delicious kosher coffee.
8. Bridge of Sighs is one of the most popular things to do in Venice Italy
Visit the Bridge of Sighs, one of Venice’s most iconic bridges. The Piazza San Marco is near this iconic bridge. It was once part of the Doge’s Palace prison compound.
Prisoners were sentenced after being interrogated by the Doge. They had to cross the bridge to get to the new prison. When the convicted were crossing the bridge, it is believed that they could hear sighs and despair. You can still admire the architectural beauty of this magnificent structure today. You can also walk across the bridge to see the prison cells.
After the tour is over, charming street vendors will greet you selling traditional Venetian masks. A carnival mask is a great souvenir to take home.
9. Gallerie dell’Accademia
Gallerie dell’Accademia was established in 1750 to provide a city with an academy for painters and sculptors. The Accademia Galleries is a must-see for all lovers of painting. If you’re looking for things to do in Venice Italy, this is the place to go. His gallery is undoubtedly the most important museum that you can visit while in Venice. The Academy was created to bring together all works of art scattered around Venice in one place.
Did you know that since 1822, the Gallerie dell’Accademia has housed the Vitruvian man? The extraordinary collection of Venetian paintings is housed in the Accademia Galleryeries today. These works of art span the Byzantine, Gothic, Renaissance and Modern eras. You will find paintings by Bellini, Carpaccio. Veronese. Tintoretto. Tiziano. Giambattista Tiepolo.
10. Murano, Burano, and Torcello
The top 15 things to do while in Venice Italy are: A day trip from Murano, Burano and the Torcello islands. Burano is known for its stunning blown glass and Murano for its colorful houses. Torcello is famous for its cathedral. To learn more about glass-blowing, visitors can join a Murano guided tour.
You will find many lovely souvenirs here. A beautiful pair of earrings or a medal made of Murano glass jewelry is a must-have item to purchase in Venice Italy. The glass museum houses a wide range of Murano accessories and jewelry.
Photographers and Instagram enthusiasts will find paradise in Burano. This little island is a paradise for photographers and Instagram addicts. It has tiny houses and bridges built by fishermen. The cathedral of 7th-century is Torcello’s main attraction. Enjoy the Byzantine art on Torcello and enjoy a stroll on this little island.
11. Enjoy art museums and exhibitions
You might think you’re done with Venice. But there are always more. After you have seen the most popular spots and attractions, what are some other things to do in Venice Italy? It is time to dig deeper.
There are many museums in Venice. For art lovers. This city is for you! The Peggy Guggenheim Collection, for example, houses art from American and European famous artists of 20th century.
Venice Biennale, an Italian cultural foundation, is primarily active in the figurative arts but also in music and theater. It organizes the Venice International Art Exhibition every two years. In addition, Palazzo Grassi and Punta Della Dogana are two contemporary art museums. There are many art exhibitions that they host throughout the year.
12. Aperitivo is one of the most popular things to do in Venice Italy.
We think that after exploring Venice Italy, the best thing to do is to relax on a terrace and have a drink. Cicchetti is a traditional Venetian appetizer that can be found at the Bacari counters. These appetizers can be enjoyed while you sip a glass wine or a spritz. An Aperitivo is a great way to meet locals.
Drinks are traditionally made with Campari, Aperol, white wines, and soda. After exploring Venice, an Aperol Spritz or even a Campari Spritz can be a great choice. Santa Margheria Square will become crowded at the Aperitivo hour. After that, the night will continue with a Chicchetto and lots of conversation.
If you are looking for places to have Aperitivo in Venice you should know that there are many bars that specialize in Aperitivo drinks. These bars offer a variety of Chichetti, with different toppings. You can also choose the ones that you like. Bakareto da Lele and Arcicchetti Bakaro are two of our favorites. Both are located on Campo dei Tolentini which is near the train station.
13. Lido di Venezia
Without a great beach vacation recommendation, our top 15 things to do Venice Italy are incomplete. The Lido di Venezia, or simply The Lido, is an 11-kilometer long barrier island that houses more than 20000 residents. The annual Venice Film Festival is held here in September/August. If you’re looking for things to do in Venice Italy, Lido di Venezia can be a great choice, especially if it is far from tourist noises.
This is a peaceful and tranquil place, perfect for a relaxing weekend getaway. You can swim in the clear blue Adriatic waters and the beaches are clean and safe. Watersports are also available. You can rent a paddle, or go windsurfing. A cruise ship can be used to set sail at sunset while you enjoy a delicious Italian meal.
14. San Giorgio Maggiore
San Giorgio Maggiore is a must-see in Venice Italy. This island was a favorite of Monet, particularly its Palladian Church which is the most well-known landmark. A stunning panorama greets you as you approach the island.
This island is home the San Giorgio Monastery, which was established in 982 after the entire island was converted into a monastery. You can take some time to visit the Church of San Giorgio Maggiore, and the belltower with 9 C# bells. Theatro Verde is an open-air theatre set in the garden of the island.
15. Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute
Let’s end our list of things to do in Venice Italy by mentioning the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute, one of the most stunning religious buildings in the area. This Roman Catholic church, also known as the Salute is a prominent feature in the Venice panorama.
The history of the basilica is strongly connected to the 1630 plague, when a third the population died in one year. In Venice alone, 46 000 people died within a single year. However, the death toll was higher in the lagoons. The Republic of Venice decided to build a church to dedicate to Our Lady of Health.
The church was built in 1687. You should take a look at the artwork when you visit. Many items and paintings have references to the Black Death, also known as the plague. Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute, with its rich history, is a must-see in Venice Italy.
Here are the top 15 things to do in Venice Italy
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We hope that you enjoyed our selection of top 15 things to see in Venice Italy. There is so much to see here. Take your time. To get the most out of your time, plan ahead if you have a tight schedule. You will need to bring comfortable walking shoes, as there are no cars within the city.
There are many things to do in Venice Italy, no matter if you’re traveling alone or with your family. There are many things to do in Venice: you can walk the streets, visit museums and churches, or enjoy the authentic Venetian lifestyle while taking a break at “aperitivo”. A delicious pasta dinner with sparkling prosecco is the best thing to buy in Venice Italy. Check out our list to find the best restaurants and cafes in Venice. Also, make sure to check out our accommodations suggestions for Venice!
