Venice is made up of more than 100 islands, all linked by Venice’s unique network of canals. As one of the most beautiful cities in the world, Venice will not disappoint its visitors. Explore Venice’s famous canals, old bridges, impressive palaces and great art.

What to do and see in and around Venice

St. Mark’s Square

The busy Piazza San Marco is probably the most famous square in Venice. Enjoy a coffee in one of the cafes while admiring the beautiful architecture that surrounds you. Many of Venice’s main attractions, such as the Campanile and the Clock Tower, are located nearby. Do not miss the golden altarpiece of the impressive Basilica of San Marco.

Academy Gallery

The Accademia Gallery has one of the best art collections in Europe. The walls are lined with works by Venetian master painters, including Bellini, Titian, Veronese, and Tintoretto.

Doge’s Palace and the Bridge of Sighs

The Ducal Palace was the home of the Doges from where they ruled the Venetian state. You see all aspects of the doge’s life from where he lived to where affairs of state were discussed and justice was meted out. Walk over the infamous Bridge of Sighs, named after the days when the bridge led from the courthouse to the prison cells. The Prisoners saw the view of the beautiful lagoon and sighed.

Ca d’Oro

Ca’ D’Oro (House of Gold) located on the Grand Canal is a beautiful palace and a great example of Gothic architecture. The Palace displays an excellent collection of sculptures, tapestries and paintings.

Santa Maria della Salute

Guarding the entrance to the Grand Canal is Santa Maria della Salute, a Venetian landmark and magnificent Baroque church. The sacristy has paintings by Titian and The Wedding at Cana by Tintoretto.

San Giorgio Maggiore

San Giorgio Maggiore church is a well-known Venetian monument designed by Palladio, the famous Renaissance architecture. Inside, you’ll find several of Tintoretto’s paintings, including “The Last Supper.”

Channels

It is impossible to think of Venice without thinking of canals and gondolas. Cars are not allowed in the city and all transportation is by water. Travel like a true Venetian, hop on the Vaporati (water bus) and cruise down the Grand Canal. It will take you under the Rialto Bridge and is a perfect way to admire the beautiful palaces that line the Canal.

Rialto Markets

The lively Rialto Markets are open every morning. Fruits, vegetables, souvenirs and clothes are offered. The fish market has been held here for 1000 years; don’t miss the live lobsters and crabs.

Great School of San Rocco

The Scuola Grande di San Rocco is one of the best art museums in Venice with an impressive collection of more than 50 works by Tintoretto.

Peggy Guggenheim Collection

The Venier dei Leoni Palace was the home of the American collector Peggy Guggenheim for 30 years. It is now a museum with an impressive collection of modern art. Artists represented include Magritte, Picasso, Pollock, and Kandinsky.

The Lido – 20 minutes by water bus from Venice

The Lido is a long strip of sand that protects the Venice lagoon from the sea. The island’s sandy beaches make it a popular day trip destination for families and sun worshipers.

Verona – 80 minutes by train from Venice

The charming city of Verona has much to offer its visitors, including Roman monuments, impressive architecture, and delicious restaurants. Don’t miss the Roman Arena, where an open-air opera festival is held every year.