Venice, the floating city of canals, bridges, and timeless beauty, is unlike any other destination in the world. With its unique blend of historic architecture, romantic waterways, and rich cultural heritage, there’s no shortage of things to do in Venice—whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveler seeking new experiences.
This guide will walk you through the must-see landmarks, authentic local experiences, and hidden treasures that make Venice a dream destination for millions of travelers each year.
1. Take a Gondola Ride Through the Canals
No trip to Venice is complete without the classic gondola ride. While it may seem touristy, gliding through the narrow canals in a traditional gondola offers a magical perspective of the city’s charming backstreets and bridges.
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Tip: Opt for a gondola ride in the early morning or around sunset for fewer crowds and better lighting.
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Cost: Around €80 for 30 minutes (prices are regulated).
2. Visit St. Mark’s Basilica (Basilica di San Marco)
Located in Piazza San Marco, this masterpiece of Byzantine architecture is one of the most iconic landmarks in Venice. Its golden mosaics, opulent domes, and intricate details make it a must-visit.
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Highlights: Golden altarpiece (Pala d’Oro), rooftop terrace, and impressive interiors.
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Admission: Free (separate ticket required for museum and terrace access).
3. Explore the Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale)
Right next to St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace is a stunning Gothic-style building that once served as the residence of the Doge (leader) of Venice. Today, it’s a museum filled with historical art, government chambers, and secret passageways.
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Don’t miss: The Bridge of Sighs, connecting the palace to the old prison.
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Admission: Around €30 (combo tickets often include other museums).
4. Wander the Streets of Cannaregio
Cannaregio is a less touristy district where you’ll find peaceful canals, authentic local eateries, and the historic Jewish Ghetto—Europe’s oldest.
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Why visit: It’s perfect for slow travel, photography, and avoiding crowds.
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Local tip: Stop at a bacaro (Venetian wine bar) for cicchetti (Venetian tapas) and a glass of spritz.
5. Shop for Murano Glass and Venetian Masks
Venice is world-renowned for its artisan crafts, particularly Murano glass and handmade masks. Visit the shops near Rialto Bridge or take a boat trip to Murano Island to see glassblowing demonstrations.
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Authenticity tip: Buy from certified shops with “Vetro Murano” labels.
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Mask shopping: Great for unique souvenirs or Carnival attire.
6. Discover Masterpieces at the Peggy Guggenheim Collection
Located along the Grand Canal, the Peggy Guggenheim Collection houses one of Europe’s most important collections of modern art. You’ll find works by Picasso, Dalí, Magritte, Pollock, and more.
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Admission: Around €16
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Vibe: Elegant and peaceful, ideal for art lovers
7. Take a Vaporetto Ride Along the Grand Canal
The vaporetto (water bus) is the most practical way to get around Venice—and one of the best ways to enjoy the scenery. Line 1 runs the entire Grand Canal and is perfect for sightseeing on a budget.
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Cost: €9.50 per ride or get a Venice transport pass for savings.
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Best seat: Front or rear of the boat for unobstructed views.
8. Visit the Colorful Island of Burano
A short ferry ride from Venice takes you to Burano, famous for its brightly painted houses and traditional lace-making. The island feels like stepping into a fairytale and offers a slower, more peaceful pace than the main city.
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Top activities: Walking, photography, lace museum, and seafood dining.
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Ideal for: A half-day trip or relaxed afternoon escape.
9. Climb the Campanile di San Marco (St. Mark’s Bell Tower)
For a panoramic view of Venice, climb—or take the elevator—to the top of the Campanile di San Marco. From here, you’ll see the city’s rooftops, lagoon, and nearby islands.
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Height: 98.6 meters (tallest structure in Venice)
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Best time to visit: Early morning or sunset for the best photos
10. Savor Authentic Venetian Cuisine
Venice has a unique culinary tradition that blends seafood, fresh vegetables, and centuries-old recipes.
Must-try Venetian dishes:
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Sarde in saor (sweet-and-sour sardines)
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Bigoli in salsa (pasta with anchovies and onions)
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Risotto al nero di seppia (squid ink risotto)
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Tiramisu (invented in nearby Treviso!)
Pair your meals with a Venetian spritz or a glass of local white wine like Soave or Prosecco.
11. Visit the Accademia Gallery (Gallerie dell’Accademia)
This is the place to see pre-19th-century Venetian art, including works by Bellini, Tintoretto, Titian, and Veronese. Located near the Accademia Bridge, the museum offers a fascinating look into Venice’s rich artistic past.
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Great for: Art history lovers and those seeking a quieter cultural stop.
12. Cross the Rialto Bridge
One of the oldest and most iconic bridges in Venice, the Rialto Bridge spans the Grand Canal and offers stunning views, especially at sunrise or sunset.
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Shops on the bridge: You’ll find jewelry, leather goods, and souvenirs.
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Nearby highlight: Rialto Market, full of fresh seafood, fruits, and vegetables.
13. Enjoy a Nighttime Stroll
Venice at night is a different experience—quiet, romantic, and mystical. The crowds thin out, and the reflections on the canals create a magical atmosphere.
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Suggested route: From St. Mark’s Square through Dorsoduro or San Polo, crossing quiet bridges and stopping at cozy wine bars.
14. Take Photos from the Ponte dell’Accademia
This bridge offers one of the most photogenic views of Venice, featuring the Grand Canal with the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute in the background.
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Tip: Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and capture soft lighting.
15. Step Inside Santa Maria della Salute
This stunning white-domed basilica sits at the entrance to the Grand Canal. Built in the 17th century as a plague offering, it’s now one of Venice’s most cherished landmarks.
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Don’t miss: The impressive interior and views from the front steps.
Hidden Gems and Local Experiences
Looking for non-touristy things to do in Venice? Here are a few insider ideas:
Attend a Classical Music Concert
Catch a Vivaldi performance at a historic church like Chiesa di San Vidal.
Learn Venetian Calligraphy or Glassblowing
Some workshops offer short courses or demonstrations for visitors.
Explore Dorsoduro and Castello Districts
These quieter neighborhoods offer a more authentic look at Venetian daily life.
Travel Tips for Visiting Venice
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Pack light – Many streets and bridges are not luggage-friendly.
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Wear comfortable shoes – You’ll walk a lot on cobbled streets and stairs.
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Book attractions in advance – Especially in peak travel seasons.
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Respect local customs – Avoid eating on steps or in church areas.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re drawn to the romance of gondola rides, the awe of ancient churches, or the flavor of Venetian cuisine, there’s no shortage of unforgettable things to do in Venice. From iconic landmarks to hidden corners, this unique city offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and charm. Take your time, wander without a map, and let Venice reveal its beauty at every turn.