Must Do’s in Venice, Italy: The Ultimate Guide

must do's in venice italy

Venice, Italy, is one of the most enchanting cities in the world, offering a unique blend of history, art, and culture. As one of Italy’s most iconic destinations, it’s full of must-see places and unforgettable experiences. If you’re planning a trip, you may be wondering about the must do’s in Venice Italy. Whether it’s your first time visiting or you’re returning for another dose of its charm, this guide will walk you through the top activities that will make your stay even more magical.

 Explore the Grand Canal by Vaporetto

what to do in venice italy

One of the must do’s in Venice Italy is cruising down the Grand Canal. This bustling waterway is the heart of Venice, lined with historical buildings and palaces. The Vaporetto, Venice’s public waterbus, is the best way to get around and see the city from a unique perspective. Here’s why you should add it to your itinerary:

Pros: Offers incredible views of Venice’s iconic architecture. Affordable and easy to use for tourists. A fantastic way to get from one point to another, such as from Piazza San Marco to the train station.

Cons: Can get crowded, especially in peak tourist seasons. Might not be the most intimate experience compared to a private gondola ride.

Visit St. Mark’s Basilica

what to see in venice italy

Another must see in Venice Italy is St. Mark’s Basilica. This stunning cathedral, with its golden mosaics and intricate architecture, is one of the most significant landmarks in the city.

Don’t miss:
The Pala d’Oro: A masterpiece of Byzantine art, showcasing over 1,000 gems.
The View from the Terrace: A panoramic view of the Piazza San Marco and the city beyond.

Pros: Free entry (though there is a charge for special areas). The basilica’s history is deeply connected to Venice’s culture.

Cons: Expect long queues during peak tourist seasons. There’s a dress code (shoulders and knees covered).

Discover the Doge’s Palace

must see in venice italy

A visit to the Doge’s Palace is another must do in Venice Italy for anyone interested in the city’s rich political history. Once home to the rulers of Venice, this Gothic-style building is full of art, history, and intrigue. Highlights include:

The Grand Staircase: A grand entrance leading into the heart of the palace.
The Bridge of Sighs: A famous bridge that connects the palace to the old prisons.

Pros: Fascinating mix of history, art, and Venetian politics.
A great way to learn about Venice’s past rulers and the Republic of Venice.

Cons: The museum can feel overwhelming with its vast collection.
It’s another spot that can get crowded during peak seasons.

Wander Through Rialto Market

must do's in venice italy

A visit to the Rialto Market is one of the must do’s in Venice Italy for food lovers. Located near the famous Rialto Bridge, this market is full of fresh seafood, vegetables, and local specialties.

Pros: A great place to taste fresh, local produce and seafood.
Excellent photo opportunities of the vibrant Venetian culture.

Cons: It’s quite touristy, especially during the daytime.
Can get very busy, especially on weekends.

Enjoy a Gondola Ride

what to do in venice italy

No trip to Venice would be complete without a gondola ride. It’s one of the must do’s in Venice Italy, offering a romantic and timeless experience through the winding canals.

Pros: A truly unique experience to see Venice from the canals.
Perfect for couples or special occasions.

Cons: Gondola rides can be expensive, especially during peak seasons.
They can feel touristy, though they remain a staple of the Venetian experience.

Take a Walk in the Hidden Gems of Venice

what to do in venice italy

While the main tourist sites are stunning, there are countless hidden gems in Venice that are worth discovering. Take a stroll through quieter districts like Cannaregio, Dorsoduro, and San Polo. Here you’ll find:

Quiet canals and charming bridges.
Local artisan shops selling Venetian glass and lace.

Pros: You’ll get a more authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience.
Perfect for photography and quiet reflection.

Cons: Some of these areas may feel a bit remote for those looking for the traditional Venetian hustle and bustle.

Taste Venetian Cuisine

must do's in venice italy

Venetian cuisine is another must do in Venice Italy for those who love food. Try classic dishes like:

Risotto al nero di seppia: Squid ink risotto.
Fegato alla veneziana: Venetian-style liver with onions.

Pros: Venice offers a unique blend of seafood and northern Italian flavors.
Local trattorias provide a more authentic experience compared to touristy restaurants.

Cons: Venice can be expensive, and dining in tourist-heavy areas may cost more.
Some dishes can be an acquired taste.

FAQs

What to see in Venice Italy?
Top attractions include St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, Rialto Market, and the Grand Canal. You can also discover Venice’s quieter areas, such as Cannaregio.

What to do in Venice Italy?
Must-do activities include taking a gondola ride, visiting the Grand Canal, walking through hidden alleyways, and indulging in Venetian cuisine.

What are the must see places in Venice Italy?
The must-see places in Venice include St. Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace, Rialto Market, and the Grand Canal. Be sure to also explore some of Venice’s lesser-known gems, such as the quieter neighborhoods of San Polo and Dorsoduro.

Conclusion

Venice is a city of magic, filled with a mix of history, culture, and beauty. From taking a Vaporetto along the Grand Canal to exploring hidden alleyways and tasting the local cuisine, these must do’s in Venice Italy will make your trip unforgettable. So, pack your bags, and get ready to explore one of the most beautiful cities in the world!

For more visual inspiration, check out this YouTube video on Venice’s top things to do: Top 10 Things to Do in Venice, Italy.

This comprehensive guide should help you make the most of your time in Venice, ensuring that you don’t miss out on any of the must see places in Venice Italy and giving you plenty of ideas for a memorable experience.

Tip Discover here below some of the top experiences you can try in Venice

Are you ready to visit Italy? What do you expect from Venice? Is there any missing information in this guide?
Let us know in the comments below!

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