10 Incredible Things To Do In Venice
Venice is made up of hundreds of canals to connect the various islands that make up the city. This floating city has a history as rich and beautiful as the landscape itself. Here are a few places to visit on your next trip.
St. Mark’s Square
Known as Piazza San Marco by the locals, located on the grand canal, this square is a stunning place to visit. The Piazza is surrounded by ornate buildings with arched walkways to beautifully frame it. Several important buildings are located here such as St. Mark’s Campanile, St. Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace, and Torre dell’Orologio.
St. Mark’s Basilica
Located in the Piazza San Marco,this impressive Basilica was built in 1092 and is one of the most recognizable buildings in Venice. The front facade features ornate detail, and sculptures, while the inside features beautiful frescos and Byzantine works of art.
San Marco Campanile
Located in Piazza San Marco, this tower was originally created in the 9th century, although the current tower is a replica of the one that collapsed in 1902. Largely made up of a simple red brick design, the top features arches and beautiful stonework, and a golden statue of the Angel Gabriel. Head to the top for beautiful panoramic views of Venice.
Doges Palace
Located on St. Mark’s Square looking out onto the Grand Canal, this ornate palace features gorgeous arches made from white stone and pink Verona marble. The interior is stunning with immensely decorated rooms with original details, furniture, and artwork.
Bridge of Sighs
Passing over the Rio di Palazzo, the bridge connects the Prigioni Nuove to Doge’s Palace. According to legend, as criminals were taken from the Palace over the bridge on their way to prison cells or execution, they would get one last look at Venice through the bridge and sigh.
Canale Grande
The largest canal in Venice, it features over 170 buildings from as early as the 13th century lining its banks. Only four bridges cross the canal, as most traffic goes along it on boats or gondolas.
Ponte de Rialto
The oldest and most famous bridge that crosses the Canale Grande, it connects the San Marco and San Polo districts. Built in the 16th century, it’s renowned as an architectural and engineering achievement of the Renaissance.
Gallerie dell’Accademia
Located on the Canale Grande, this building was formerly a convent and was converted to a museum in the late 1700s. Featuring Renaissance art by Tintoretto, Titian, and Veronese, its best known piece is the Vitruvian Man by Da Vinci.
Murano Glass Museum
Marvel at the traditional glass-making artistry the island is known for. While here, take some time to watch the open studio to see glass being blown, and learn about the history of Murano Glass.
Teatro La Fenice
One of Italy’s most popular Opera houses, the name translates to Theater of the Phoenix - and ironically it has been rebuilt three times due to fires. Recently renovated, this theater still has a charming Old World style with intricate gold interiors and plush red chairs. Catch a show in the evening, or tour the theater during the day.
There are so many amazing things to do in Venice, I couldn’t possibly list them all here! If you’re interested in learning more, or are ready to book your vacation, request a quote today!
