What Are the Best Things to See in Venice?
Venice is a magical city with so many must-see attractions. If you’re interested in architecture, the Best Things to See in Venice are:
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- St. Mark’s Square
- St. Mark’s Basilica
- Rialto Bridge
- Doge’s Palace
- St. Mark’s Campanile
- Bridge of Sighs
- Biblioteca Nazionale Marciana
- Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari
- St. Mark’s Clocktower
- Basilica of Saints John and Paul
- Procuratie Vecchie
- Basilica of Saint Mary of Health
- Church of Santa Maria del Rosario
- Church of Madonna dell’Orto
- Scuola Grande di San Rocco
- Church of Saint Giorgio Maggiore
- Church of Saint Roch
- Ca Rezzonico
- Church of Santa Maria Formosa
- Church of the Redeemer
- Church of Saint Mary of the Lily
- Chiesa di San Simeon Piccolo
- Church of St. Stephen
- Church of Saint George of the Greeks
- Ca d’Oro
- Church of Santa Maria dei Miracoli
- Ca Pesaro
- Teatro La Fenice
We spent the entire month of March visiting the sights in Venice. Based on our experience, we put together this list of the best things to see.
If you don’t have a month to explore, you can follow our suggested Venice Walking Tour and see all the best sights on our list in one day (albeit a rather full day).
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Best Things to See in Venice
St. Mark’s Square
One of the best things to see in Venice is St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco). This waterfront square is the heart of Venice, with its stunning Basilica di San Marco and centuries-old cafes. The square is surrounded by beautiful architecture, including the vast Campanile (bell tower) and the Doge’s Palace. It’s a bustling area where you can enjoy Venice’s atmosphere and take in this iconic city’s sights and sounds. St. Mark’s Square is a must-visit for any sightseeing itinerary in Venice.
Saint Mark’s Basilica
Saint Mark’s Basilica (Basilica di San Marco) is located on the eastern end of Saint Mark’s Square and is attached to the Doge’s Palace.
- Style: Byzantine, Romanesque, and Gothic
- Built: originally c. 829 to c. 836; rebuilt c. 1063 to 1094
- Address: P.za San Marco, 328, 30100 Venezia VE
One of the must-see attractions in Venice is the Basilica di San Marco, known for its stunning mosaics. Dating back to the 9th century AD, this Byzantine basilica features intricate and colorful mosaics that cover the interior walls. The mosaics depict various religious scenes and are a true work of art. Visitors can also admire the Pala d’Oro, a Byzantine altarpiece covered in gold and adorned with nearly 2,000 gems. The Basilica di San Marco is a testament to Venice’s rich history and artistic beauty.
Rialto Bridge
The Rialto Bridge (Ponte di Rialto) was the first bridge crossing the Grand Canal (Canal Grande).
It connects the San Marco and San Polo districts.
- Architect: Antonio da Ponte
- Style: single-span stone bridge
- Built: 1588 and 1591
- Address: Sestiere San Polo, 30125 Venezia VE
At the end of the day, you will find the perfect place for a glass of wine (or bellini) overlooking the Grand Canal near the foot of the Rialto Bridge. Then, you can capture the perfect sunset picture as you cross the bridge on your way to dinner!
Doge’s Palace
- Architect: Andrea Palladio, Antonio Rizzo, Bartolomeo Bon, and others
- Style: Venetian Gothic
- Built: 1340 onwards
- Address: P.za San Marco, 1, 30124 Venezia VE
Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale) is made up of three large blocks: the wing towards the St. Mark’s Basin is the oldest, rebuilt from 1340 onwards; the wing towards St. Mark’s Square was built in its present form from 1424 onwards; and, the canal-side wing, housing the Doge’s apartments and many government offices, dates from the Renaissance and was built between 1483 and 1565.
This iconic landmark offers a glimpse into Venice’s rich history and architecture. You can explore the opulent rooms, admire the stunning artwork, and learn about the power and influence of the Venetian Republic. A tour of Doge’s Palace is a must-do for anyone visiting Venice, as it provides a fascinating insight into the city’s past.
St. Mark’s Campanile
St. Mark’s Campanile (Campanile di San Marco) is a bell tower in Saint Mark’s Square.
The tower was initially constructed as a watchtower in the 9th or 10th century. It was renovated over time until it reached its full height in 1514.
- Built: original 9th century; restored 1511 – 1514; rebuilt 1903 – 1912
- Address: P.za San Marco, 30124 Venezia VE
The current campanile is a reconstruction completed in 1912 after the last tower collapsed in 1902.
Bridge of Sighs
The Bridge of Sighs (Ponte dei Sospiri) is an enclosed bridge over the Rio di Palazzo. It connects the Doge’s Palace with the prison and, according to legend, gets its name from the sound prisoners made when they took their last view of the city.
- Architect: Antonio Contin (nephew of Antonio da Ponte)
- Built: 1600 – 1603
- Address: P.za San Marco, 1, 30124 Venezia VE
The Ponte della Paglia, a small bridge on Riva degli Schiavoni, is the best place to see the exterior of the Bridge of Sighs.
Possibly, the most romantic bridge in a city filled with romance and bridges. It’s said that if you kiss someone as you pass beneath it on a gondola, you will experience eternal love.
Biblioteca Nazionale Marciana
- Architect: Jacopo Sansovino, Vincenzo Scamozzi
- Style: Renaissance
- Built: 1537 – 1588
- Address: P.za San Marco, 7, 30124 Venezia VE
Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari
The Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari aka the Frari is located in the San Polo district.
- Architect: Jacopo Celega and Pier Paolo Celega
- Style: Venetian Gothic
- Built: 1250 to 1338 (original construction)
- Address: San Polo, 3072, 30125 Venezia VE
The church has been enlarged multiple times, including significant reconstruction in the late 14th and 15th centuries.
The design is based on the Latin cross plan and has three naves with pointed arches resting on six columns on the side.
St. Mark’s Clocktower
St. Mark’s Clocktower (aka Torre dell’Orologio) is located on the north side of the Piazza San Marco.
- Architect: Zuan Carlo Rainieri
- Style: Renaissance
- Built: 1495 to 1499
- Address: P.za San Marco, 30124 Venezia VE
The tower and clock have been renovated and reconstructed multiple times over the centuries.
Basilica of Saints John and Paul
The Basilica of Saints John and Paul (Basilica dei Santi Giovanni e Paolo) aka San Zanipolo is located in the Castello district.
- Architect: Bartolomeo Bon
- Style: Italian Gothic
- Built: 13th-century expansion completed in 1343
- Address: Campo S.S. Giovanni e Paolo, 6363, 30122 Venezia VE
After renovations, the church was finally consecrated in 1430.
The interior plan is a Latin cross with a transept and three naves divided by enormous cylindrical columns connected by wooden tie rods.
Procuratie Vecchie
- Architect: Pietro Bon and Zuan Celestro (attributed)
- Style: Early Renaissance
- Built: ca. 1514 – 1538
- Address: P.za San Marco, 105, 30124 Venezia VE
The Procuratie Vecchie was built to serve as rental property to fund work on St. Mark’s Basilica.
Basilica of Saint Mary of Health
The Basilica of Saint Mary of Health (Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute) aka the Salute is located at Punta della Dogana in the Dorsoduro district.
- Architect: Baldassare Longhena
- Style: Baroque
- Built: 1631 to 1687
- Address: Dorsoduro, 1, 30123 Venezia VE
One of the must-see attractions in Venice is the Roman Catholic Church of Santa Maria della Salute. Built in a stunning Baroque design, this church is designated as a minor basilica of the Roman Catholic Church. It stands out on the Grand Canal with its intricate exterior adorned with statues of the apostles and a prominent main dome.
Inside, visitors can explore the sophisticated baroque high altar and even tour the sacristy, which houses vestments, treasures, and an impressive collection of masterpieces by Titian.
Church of Santa Maria del Rosario
The Church of Santa Maria del Rosario (Chiesa di Santa Maria del Rosario) aka I Gesuati is located in the Dorsoduro district.
- Architect: Giorgio Massari
- Style: Baroque
- Built: 1724 to 1736
- Address: Fondamenta Zattere Ai Gesuati, 30123 Venezia VE
The façade, dome, and two short onion-shaped bell towers are distinctive from across the water.
Church of Madonna dell’Orto
- Style: Italian Gothic
- Built: originally mid-14th century; restored 1840s – 1869
- Address: Cannareggio, 3512, 30121 Venezia VE
The façade was built from 1460 to 1464.
Scuola Grande di San Rocco
The Scuola Grande di San Rocco, dedicated to the patron saint of plague victims, began in 1478 as a Scuola dei Battuti.
- Architect: Bartolomeo or Pietro Bon, Sante Lombardo, Antonio Scarpagnino, and Giangiacomo dei Grigi
- Style: Renaissance
- Built: 1515 – 1560
- Address: San Polo, 3054, a, 30125 Venezia VE
Church of Saint Giorgio Maggiore
- Architect: Andrea Palladio
- Style: Renaissance
- Built: 1566 to 1610
- Address: Isola di S.Giorgio Maggiore, 30133 Venezia VE
Church of Saint Roch
Chiesa di San Rocco is located in the San Polo district.
- Architect: Bartolomeo Bon (attributed); Giovanni Scalfarotto (renovations); Bernardino Maccaruzzi (facade)
- Style: Renaissance
- Built: original 1489 – 1597; renovated 1726 – 1732; facade completed 1765 – 1769
- Address: Campo S. Rocco, 30125 Venezia VE
Ca Rezzonico
Ca’ Rezzonico is located in the Dorsoduro district overlooking the Grand Canal.
- Architect: Baldassarre Longhena and Giorgio Massari
- Style: Baroque
- Built: started in 1667 and completed in 1758
- Address: Dorsoduro, 3136, 30123 Venezia VE
Following demolition of the pre-existing buildings, construction started in 1667. However, construction was abandoned in 1682 due to the owner’s economic difficulties and the death of Longhena.
Giambattista Rezzonico (brother of Pope Clement XIII) bought the building in 1751. Massari finally completed the construction in 1758.
The palace currently houses the Museum of 18th-century Venice.
Church of Santa Maria Formosa
The Church of Santa Maria Formosa (Chiesa Parrocchiale di Santa Maria Formosa) aka The Church of the Purification of Mary is located in the Castello district.
- Architect: Mauro Codussi
- Style: Renaissance (church) and Baroque (façade)
- Built: church completed 1492; façade facing canal completed in 1542; Baroque-style façade facing the square completed in 1604
- Address: Calle Seconda de la Fava, 5263, 30122 Venezia VE
The interior is a Latin cross layout with a nave and two aisles.
The dome was rebuilt after an earthquake in 1688.
Church of the Redeemer
The Church of the Most Holy Redeemer (Chiesa del Santissimo Redentore) aka Il Redentore is located on the island of Giudecca in the Dorsoduro district.
- Architect: Andrea Palladio
- Style: Renaissance
- Built: 1577 to 1592
- Address: Redentore, Sestiere Giudecca, 30133 Venezia VE
The church was designed with a single nave and three chapels on each side.
It was built as a thanksgiving following a major plague outbreak that killed 46,000 Venetians between 1575 and 1576.
Church of Saint Mary of the Lily
The Church of Saint Mary of the Lily (Chiesa di Santa Maria del Giglio) aka Santa Maria Zobenigo is located in the San Marco district.
- Architect: Giuseppe Sardi (rebuilt)
- Style: Baroque (rebuilt)
- Built: original 9th century; rebuilt 1678 – 1681
- Address: Campo Santa Maria del Giglio, 30125 Venezia VE
The church was rebuilt in 966 and 1105 due to damage from fires.
It has a single nave with three short side chapels on each side.
Church of San Simeon Piccolo
Chiesa di San Simeon Piccolo is located in the Santa Croce district.
- Architect: Giovanni Antonio Scalfarotto
- Style: Neoclassical
- Built: rebuilt 1718 – 1738
- Address: Santa Croce, 698, 30135 Venezia VE
Church of St. Stephen
The Church of St. Stephen (Chiesa di Santo Stefano) is located at the end of Campo Santo Stefano in the San Marco district.
- Style: Italian Gothic
- Built: original 13th century; rebuilt 14th century; renovated 15th century
- Address: S. Marco, 3471C, 30124 Venezia VE
Church of Saint George of the Greeks
Chiesa di San Giorgio dei Greci is located in the Castello district.
- Architect: Sante Lombardo
- Style: Renaissance
- Built: 1539 – 1573
- Address: Calle dei Greci, 3422, 30122 Venezia VE
Ca d’Oro
Cà d’Oro aka Palazzo Santa Sofia is located in the Cannaregio district overlooking the Grand Canal.
- Architect: Bartolomeo Bon, Matteo Raverti, Giovanni Bon, Marco d’Amadio
- Style: Venetian Gothic
- Built: 1428 – 1440
- Address: Calle Ca’ d’Oro, 3934, 30121 Venezia VE
Originally, some parts of the façade, an excellent example of Venetian flowery Gothic, were covered with gold, thus giving the palace its name.
Church of Santa Maria dei Miracoli
- Architect: Pietro Lombardo
- Style: Renaissance
- Built: 1481 – 1489; restored 1990 – 1997
- Address: Campiello dei Miracoli, 30121 Venezia VE
Ca Pesaro
Ca’ Pesaro is located in the Santa Croce district overlooking the Grand Canal.
- Architect: Baldassarre Longhena and Antonio Gaspari
- Style: Baroque
- Built: 1652 to 1710
- Address: Santa Croce, 2076, 30135 Venezia VE
Longhena designed the palace for the noble Pesaro family. Construction started in 1652 but was still not completed when Longhena died in 1682. Gaspari finally completed the palace in 1710.
It is home to the International Gallery of Modern Art and the Oriental Art Museum of Venice.
Teatro La Fenice
- Architect: Gian Antonio Selva, Aldo Rossi, Giovanni Battista Meduna
- Style: Neoclassical
- Built: 1792 (original)
- Address: Campo S. Fantin, 1965, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy
Teatro La Fenice is a historic opera house that has repeatedly risen from the ashes. This famous theater has a rich history and is considered one of the most beautiful opera houses in the world. Despite being destroyed by fire three times, most recently in 1996, it reopened in 2003 and continues to captivate visitors with its stunning architecture and performances.
If you’re still on the fence after reading about the best things to see, check out “Is Venice Worth Visiting.” We review a long list of factors you should consider before reserving a room and booking your flight.
Venice Walking Tour
There are no cars in Venice, so you’ll be walking or taking a water taxi from sight to sight (gondolas are typically for tours – not transportation).
If you have limited time, we suggest visiting the recommended sites in the following order:
Cannaregio
Islands of San Giorgio Maggiore and Giudecca (Optional)
Santa Croce
Following the suggested route will take you past the Best Things to See in Venice and many more amazing sights!
Depending on your level of urgency, it will take approximately 2 hours to complete the first half of the walking tour, about 2 hours to complete the optional part of the tour to the islands; and about 3 hours to complete the second half of the tour. These estimates allow time to stop for photos and take a peak inside the churches (along with an occasional drink of water). But they do not include tours of the attractions.
If you’re trying to see everything in one day, you should probably skip the trip to the islands.
Map of Things to See in Venice
Our suggested Venice Walking Tour starts at the Venice Santa Lucia train station, passes sights in all six districts, and ends back at the train station.
The first half of the tour takes you to the Cannaregio, Castello, and San Marco districts and ends in St. Mark’s Square. If you started the day early, this would be an excellent time to get lunch. There are many good places to eat around the square and along the waterside promenade.
OPTIONAL: You can visit the Church of Saint Giorgio Maggiore and the Church of the Redeemer, located on islands inaccessible by a bridge. However, they are a short water taxi ride from St. Mark’s Square. To visit Chiesa di San Giorgio, take a short ride on the No. 2 Ferry from San Marco-San Zaccaria “F” to San Giorgio (the first stop).
To get to the Church of the Redeemer from the Island of Saint Giorgio Maggiore, take the No. 2 Ferry from San Giorgio to the Zitelle stop on Giudecca island. Finally, to return to St. Mark’s Square and continue the walking tour, take the B Ferry from Zitelle to San Marco Valaresso.
The second half of the walking tour starts in St. Mark’s Square and passes sights in the San Marco, Dorsoduro, San Polo, and Santa Croce districts before returning to the train station where you started.
City Tours in Venice
Want to learn about Venice’s history with a local guide? Book a highly-rated guided tour in Venice!
Venice Information and Travel Tips
What is Venice Famous For?
Venice, Italy is famous for its gondolas, canals, bridges, and unique architecture.
What not to miss in Venice?
Venice is a city full of charm and beauty, with many attractions to explore. Here are some of the top things not to miss in Venice:
1. St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco): This iconic square is the heart of Venice and home to famous landmarks such as St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace.
2. The Grand Canal: Take a gondola ride or hop on a vaporetto (water bus) to cruise along this picturesque canal, passing by stunning palaces and bridges.
3. Rialto Bridge: One of Venice’s most famous landmarks, this bridge offers beautiful views of the Grand Canal and is an excellent spot for shopping at the nearby Rialto Market.
4. Burano Island: Known for its colorful houses and lace-making tradition, Burano Island is a charming place to wander through narrow streets and enjoy local cuisine.
5. Venetian Cuisine: Indulge in delicious Venetian dishes such as risotto, fresh seafood, Cicchetti (small plates), and traditional desserts like tiramisu or fritole.
One of the best ways to explore Venice is by taking a ride on the water buses. These buses, also known as vaporettos, are a convenient and affordable mode of transportation in the city. They allow you to navigate through the canals and take in the breathtaking views of Venice’s iconic landmarks, such as the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute. Riding on the water buses gives you a unique perspective of the city and allows you to experience its vibrant atmosphere. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience when visiting Venice.
For art lovers, Venice has a couple of must-visit art museums. The Peggy Guggenheim Collection is housed in the Palazzo Venier dei Leoni. This modern art museum includes works by renowned artists such as Picasso, Dalí, Miró, and Kandinsky. The museum was curated by American heiress Peggy Guggenheim and offers visitors a chance to admire these masterpieces while enjoying the stunning view from the terrace overlooking the Grand Canal.
Also, the Gallerie dell’Accademia, situated at the end of the famous Ponte dell’Accademia, showcases some of Italy’s finest artwork. Visitors can immerse themselves in world-class art as they explore the meandering itinerary that takes them through buildings filled with masterpieces that once adorned the city’s church walls. The Gallerie dell’Accademia tells the story of Venetian art and offers a glimpse into its rich artistic heritage.
Remember that Venice can be crowded with tourists, so planning your visits to popular attractions in advance and trying to avoid peak times is advisable. Additionally, be sure to take the time to explore the lesser-known parts of Venice, as they often hold hidden gems and a more authentic Venetian experience.
While in Venice, don’t forget to wander through its winding streets and alleyways. This is where you’ll discover the city’s unique charm and stumble upon hidden squares, quaint shops, and local cafes.
Is Venice Pretty?
Yes, Venice is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, which is why it is so popular and crowded with tourists.
Where to stay in Venice?
There are many great places to stay in Venice. For the best experience, we recommend staying near St. Marks Square (the castle marker on the map below). It is the epicenter of Venice, with great cafes and bars for people-watching and the stunning Cathedral as a backdrop.
Here’s an interactive map with hotel and apartment options that can be filtered to meet your needs. Select your travel dates to get specific availability and prices.
Book your stay now!
How To Get to Venice?
If you fly into Venice Airport, you can get to the historic city center by a public water bus, private water taxi, or traditional public bus transfer.
How Many Days Is Enough for Venice?
It depends on what you want to see and do in Venice. Some people find that two or three days is enough to explore the main attractions and get a feel for the city. Others may prefer to spend more time and immerse themselves in the unique atmosphere of Venice. If possible, I would recommend spending at least four or five days in Venice to fully experience everything it has to offer, including its beautiful canals, historic landmarks, and delicious cuisine.
Additionally, if you stay more than a couple of days, you will have time to take a day trip across the Venetian Lagoon to the nearby islands of Murano and Burano. Murano is famous for its glassmaking, while Burano is known for its colorful buildings and lacemaking. These islands offer a unique and charming experience that is different from the main island of Venice. Take a vaporetto ride and explore these beautiful islands for a memorable day trip from Venice.
Is 2 days Enough for Venice?
It depends on your personal preferences and how much you want to see and do in Venice. Some people find that two days is enough time to see the main sights and get a feel for the city, while others prefer to spend more time exploring at a leisurely pace. Keep in mind that Venice can be quite crowded with tourists, especially during peak travel seasons, so having an extra day or two can allow for a more relaxed experience. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide how much time you want to dedicate to your visit to Venice.
Is 1 Day Enough to Explore Venice?
While it is possible to explore Venice in one day, it would be quite a rushed experience. With just one day, you would have limited time to see the main sights and truly soak in the atmosphere of the city. However, if you are short on time and eager to get a taste of Venice, it can still be worth visiting for a day. Just prioritize the must-see attractions like St. Mark’s Square, Rialto Bridge, and take a gondola ride along the canals. Remember to plan your itinerary carefully to make the most of your time in Venice.
What is the best time to visit Venice?
The time of the year with good weather and fewer crowds is often referred to as the shoulder season. The shoulder season in Venice is March, April, October, and November. For many, this is the best time of the year to visit.
Venice is a destination that is crowded year-round, so you might want to focus on the weather when deciding when to visit.
Is Venice Expensive?
Yes, Venice, Italy is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world which makes it expensive.
Do I need to speak the local language to visit Venice?
It is not necessary to speak Italian to visit and enjoy Venice. A large percentage of the locals speak English.
Is Venice Safe?
Yes, Venice is extremely safe.
What Region is Venice in?
Venice is located in the Veneto region of Italy. Veneto is in northeastern Italy and is famous for its Prosecco wine.
What Region is Venice in?
Venice is located in the Veneto region of Italy. Veneto is in northeastern Italy and is famous for its Prosecco wine.
What do I need on my Venice packing list?
Your Venice packing list should include non-slip shoes for the slick cobblestones when they get wet.
Best WIFI for a Venice visit?
Do you need wifi during your trip and don’t want to pay for roaming? We use eSIMs from Airalo during our travel and highly recommend them. They are cheap, easy to set up, and allow you to leave your primary sim card in your phone (so you don’t loose it). Click below for more info.
Where is Venice?
Venice is a historic city on the Adriatic Sea in northeastern Italy. It is a 7 hr train ride south of Munich, Germany, a 2 hr 30 min ride east of Milan, Italy, and a 2 hr 15 min ride north of Florence, Italy.
