Venice

Venezia

Built on 118 islands connected by canals, Venice is one of the world's most unique and iconic cities. It is renowned for its Gothic architecture, art, and centuries of maritime history.

Things to do

• Gondola ride on the Grand Canal — Book a shared gondola for a more affordable experience.
• Visit St. Mark's Basilica — Arrive early to avoid long queues and dress modestly.
• Explore Doge's Palace — The Secret Itineraries tour reveals hidden chambers not on the main route.
• Wander Dorsoduro neighborhood — Less touristy and home to the Peggy Guggenheim Collection.
• Day trip to Murano island — Watch live glassblowing demonstrations at local workshops.
• Visit the Rialto Market — Arrive early morning to see locals shopping for fresh fish and produce at this iconic 16th-century market.
• Explore Burano Island — Take the vaporetto to this colorful fishing island famous for its bright painted houses and delicate lacework.
• Attend evening Aperitivo in Cannaregio — Join locals for a spritz and cicchetti at the laid-back bacari bars lining the quiet canals of this residential sestiere.
• Tour the Peggy Guggenheim Collection — This world-class modern art museum sits in a Grand Canal palazzo and features works by Picasso, Dalí, and Pollock.
• Climb the Campanile di San Marco — Ride the elevator to the top of St. Mark's bell tower for sweeping panoramic views over Venice and the lagoon.

Food to try

• Cicchetti — Small Venetian tapas served in local bars called bacari, perfect with a glass of prosecco.
• Sarde in saor — Sweet and sour marinated sardines, a classic Venetian antipasto.
• Risotto al nero di seppia — Creamy risotto made with cuttlefish ink, a signature Venetian seafood dish.
• Frittelle veneziane — Fried doughnuts filled with cream or raisins, especially popular during Carnevale.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect resident spaces — Venice is a living city; avoid sitting on bridges or doorsteps, which is prohibited.
• No swimming in canals — It is illegal and unsafe to swim in Venice's canals.
• Dress code at churches — Shoulders and knees must be covered when entering St. Mark's and other churches.