Looking for the best things to do in Venice? To find them, you will have to get lost in the city, the authentic way to discover a quiet canal adorned with hanging gardens, suspended from
Looking for the best things to do in Venice? To find them, you will have to get lost in the city, the authentic way to discover a quiet canal adorned with hanging gardens, suspended from the Venetian terraces. But, of course, there are things that are unavoidable: the gondola rides on the Grand Canal, crossing the Rialto Bridge, wandering through the maze of cobbled streets, or visiting its extraordinary museums.
You’ll want to visit the Venice Art Biennale (if it’s held when you’re there, of course) and see some of the most interesting works of contemporary art from around the world. And don’t miss the exhibitions at Punta Della Dogana and Palazzo Fortuny on your list of art-related interests.
Don’t forget to set aside a lot of time to explore the city, try local specialties such as cicchetti or baccalá mantecato in Venice’s best restaurants, scattered around its different neighborhoods.
If you feel like it, get out of the city on a short boat ride and enjoy a typical lunch on the northern Venetian lagoon at Venissa or at Il Gatto Nero.
Some pro tips: The city is sinking as the seas rise, especially during the colder months; pack your wellies. The best way to get around, unless visiting neighboring islands, is on foot; And it’s always the right time for a glass (or two, or three) of prosecco, the famous Italian white wine.
But there are a few other specific things that you can do there and we wanted to share them with youl. Ready, set … let’s explore!
Best Things to Do in Venice
Grand Canal
During peak season, the water buses that run along the Grand Canal can get oppressively crowded, especially during morning and evening commutes. Avoid the chaos by traveling on the Grand Canal at night; an attractive option, like all the royal palaces, are illuminated, making the ceiling frescoes and large chandeliers visible.
Another way to avoid the crowds of tourists on the Grand Canal is to hire your water taxi. Some ships even serve champagne on board. This indulgence is more expensive than public transportation, but it’s a great idea if you’re traveling with a group and want to enjoy water transportation (it’s often cheaper than gondolas). Water taxis are also more comfortable for navigating smaller, more picturesque canals. Plus, since you’ll only be with your group on board, you can slow down for photos as often as you like.
Caffè Florian
Located in the heart of Piazza San Marco, Caffè Florian is truly legendary. This iconic place in Venetian history has been a hallmark of royalty since 1720, drawing celebrities throughout the centuries, from Charlie Chaplin to Andy Warhol, and its decor hasn’t changed much since the 18th century. Try the ‘risotto’ or, if you want something sweet, the gourmet chocolates, the specialty coffees, and the frozen ice cream. The patio is perfect in summer.
Venice Biennale
If you haven’t guessed it already, the Venice Biennale is held every two years and fills the city with art from around the world. However, if your trip does not coincide with the festival, don’t worry: the Foundation organizes many other events regularly, such as the Contemporary Music Festival or the International Film Festival.
San Sebastiano
Millions of people prowl the outskirts of San Marco each year, waiting their turn to take a look at the fabulous basilica. Why not go to the church of San Sebastiano, where you can find some of the best works of Paolo Tiepolo, the master of the Venetian Renaissance? Save Venice Inc., the non-profit organization responsible for restoring countless Venetian art and architecture throughout the city (such as the glittering marble facade of the Santa Maria dei Miracoli), recently restored Tiepolo’s ceiling paintings, and has spent more than a decade repairing and restoring much of the church.