The Floating City is one of the most visited, most photographed and most romantic destinations in the world, thanks to its rich architectural heritage, timeless beauty and shameless attachment to the good things in life.Venice is an easy city to explore on foot thanks to its dense network of cobblestone streets winding amongst its trademark canals. Stroll across ancient bridges, dive down narrow alleyways and wander through picturesque piazzas – it seems there’s something to surprise and delight around every corner.St Mark’s Square is where many visitors choose to start their voyage of exploration. This world-famous attraction can get very crowded, especially in the summer months, but there’s no better place to get a first taste of the splendours of Venetian architecture, such as the glorious gold and marble of St Mark’s Basilica (Basilica di San Marco) and the richly decorated dome of the Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale).From the piazza, head to the Grand Canal for a boat ride along one of the most breathtakingly beautiful stretches of water in the world. For speed and convenience, take the vaporetto (water bus) to access most of the principal sights, or enjoy a more traditional view of the canal from the prow of a romantic gondola. Either way you can catch a glimpse of the Basilica of St Mary of Health (Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute) as you glide beneath the ancient arches of the Rialto Bridge (Ponte di Rialto).The vaporetto is a great way to reach other attractions such as the Chiesa Santa Maria dei Miracolo, a 15th-century church built on an ancient pilgrimage site, or take a day trip to the glass-blowers’ island of Murano or the lace museum on Burano.As the sun goes down and the pace of the day dwindles, head for a traditional osteria (a bar that serves food) or a shady restaurant terrace to sample some delicious Italian food and wine and listen to the street musicians singing their love songs into the night.
Venice Travel Guide
Venice Travel Guide Video
Where to stay in Venice
Venice City Center
The stunning cathedral and charming cafes are just a few highlights of Venice City Center. Make a stop by St. Mark's Square or St. Mark's Basilica while you're exploring the area.
San Marco
San Marco is beloved for its popular shops. Take some time to explore sights in the area like St. Mark's Square and St. Mark's Basilica.
Cannaregio
A noteworthy feature of Cannaregio is its popular shops. While you're in town, be sure to stop and check out Jewish Museum of Venice and Venetian Ghetto.
Dorsoduro
The ample dining options and fascinating museums are top of the list for many visitors to Dorsoduro. A stop by Maritime Station or Campo Santa Margherita might round out your trip.
Castello
Castello is known for its popular shops, and with sights like St. Mark's Square and Venetian Arsenal, you won't get bored spending a day wandering around this part of Venice.
San Polo
San Polo is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari and Palazzo Pisani Moretta while you're in town.
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Popular places to visit
St. Mark's Square
Surround yourself in Venetian splendour as you soak up the heady atmosphere of the city’s social and cultural hub.
Port of Venice
Explore the waterfront of Port of Venice and enjoy other activities such as boating in Venice. Experience the area's acclaimed art galleries and fascinating museums.
Rialto Bridge
The oldest bridge in Venice has become one of its most popular modern-day tourist attractions.
St. Mark's Basilica
The jewel in Venice’s crown is known as the “Church of Gold” for its gilded spires that tower over St Mark’s Square.
Doge's Palace
The walls of this grand palace are steeped in the history of Venice’s powerful and wealthy ruling classes.
Grand Canal
The Grand Canal is Venice’s crowning glory, so flag down a gondola and get ready for one of the most beautiful boat trips in the world.
Activities
Murano & Burano Tour
St. Mark's Basilica & Doge's Palace Tour with Skip-the-Line
Venice: Leonardo Da Vinci Museum Entrance Ticket
Reviews of Venice
5/5 - Excellent
A must-see city!
5/5 - Excellent
Venice is a great experience for a couple of days.
5/5 - Excellent
Beautiful city, Canal, bridges, laneways and surrounding islands (Burano was our favourite). Probably our favourite European trip destination!
5/5 - Excellent
Loved Venice, it was our favourite place on our travels in Italy.
5/5 - Excellent
Been to Venice twice, both between Christmas and New Year. Way less tourists during this period. No flooding issues.
5/5 - Excellent
Beautiful place to visit. We were lucky with the weather which made it even better.