• Piazza San Marco

Piazza San Marco, also known as Saint Mark's Square, is Venice's largest and most essential tourist spot. It is home to some of the city's most significant attractions. It's a spacious area amidst the city's waterways, offering visitors a true taste of Venice's essence. Since ancient times, the square has been vital—once a bustling market and now a hub of social, religious, and political life.

Surrounded by covered walkways on three sides and the Basilica di San Marco on the fourth, the square is 180 meters long and 70 meters wide. It's unique as Venice's only "piazza," with other squares called "piazzales" or "campos." Over centuries, the square evolved under various leaders, starting from around 800 AD. Napoleon famously dubbed it "the drawing room of Europe" due to its artistic treasures.

Named after St. Mark's Basilica, the square features the Campanile di San Marco, offering panoramic views. It also houses Doge’s Palace, once Venice’s political center, now a museum. Visitors enjoy the basilica's Byzantine architecture and mosaics. The lively atmosphere with clock tower bells and waterfront views also adds to its appeal as Venice's top attraction.

• Doge’s Palace

The Doge’s Palace, also known as Palazzo Ducale, was the house of the Doge, the leader of the Venetian Republic. This Gothic-style palace was once the political heart of Venice. Today, it’s a museum where you can explore the Doge’s rooms and cross the famous Bridge of Sighs.

Highlights include Tintoretto’s ‘Paradise,’ the prisons, and the regular exhibitions featuring contemporary art. The ornate architecture and detailed frescoes make it a visual feast for history enthusiasts.

• Bridge of Sighs

The Bridge of Sighs, also known as Ponte dei Sospiri in Italian, is a breathtaking landmark in Venice. This white limestone bridge, built in 1600, connects the Doge's Palace to the New Prison. Originally, it was the last glimpse of freedom for convicts on their way to prison cells or the execution chamber. The bridge's name reflects this history, with "Sighs" referring to the prisoners' laments.

Today, the Bridge of Sighs is a popular tourist destination. While you can't walk across it on your own (unless you visit the Doge's Palace), you can admire its beauty from a gondola ride below.

The bridge has taken on a more romantic meaning in recent times. Legend says that couples who kiss while passing under the bridge at sunset will experience eternal love. Whether or not this is true, the Bridge of Sighs remains a symbol of Venice's rich history and captivating beauty.

• St. Mark's Basilica (Basilica di San Marco)

The Basilica di San Marco, also known as St. Mark's Basilica, is the principal church of Venice and the largest in the city. It serves as the cathedral of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Venice. Built in 828 by the Doge next to Palazzo Ducale, it houses the remains of St. Mark, the patron saint of Venice.

This magnificent cathedral showcases Italian-Byzantine and Gothic styles. It features multiple domes and over 8,000 square meters of luminous mosaics and ornamentation. The interior is decorated with stunning floor mosaics, including a depiction of a rhinoceros, and intricate Byzantine-style mosaics on the walls and ceilings.

The exterior is adorned with marble sculptures, adding to its grandeur. The glowing golden roof is a testament to Venice's history of wealth and power. Admire the majestic domes and towers adorned with gold.

Marvel at the 8,000 square meters of colorful Byzantine mosaics depicting Bible stories, saints, and patterns. Visit the historic building that has held St. Mark the Evangelist's sacred remains since the 9th century. For a small fee, visitors can explore the museum upstairs and enjoy views of Piazza San Marco.

The Pala d’Oro, a golden altarpiece encrusted with gems, is a highlight not to be missed. Located within St. Mark's Square, the basilica is close to other significant attractions like The Campanile di San Marco, The Bridge of Sighs, and Doge's Palace.

• Grand Canal

The Grand Canal is one of the world’s most famous waterways. It splits Venice into two parts and is lined with beautiful palazzos. Public transport, like the Vaporetto, offers a 45-minute cruise along the canal, providing views of churches, hotels, and iconic structures like the Rialto Bridge.

For a unique experience, take a traghetto—a public gondola—to cross the canal. The bustling waterway is a snapshot of Venetian life and a beautiful sight at sunset.

• Rialto Bridge

The Rialto Bridge is more than just a way to cross the Grand Canal. This marble-clad bridge, dating back to 1591, connects the San Marco and San Polo districts. It’s a popular spot for tourists, offering stunning views of the canal and a variety of shops.

Just across the bridge is the Rialto Market, where you can find fresh produce and vibrant local bars. The area is lively, with vendors selling everything from fish to flowers.

•  Galleries of the Academy

The Gallerie dell’Accademia is a must-visit for art lovers. This gallery houses an impressive collection of Renaissance art by masters like Titian, Tintoretto, and Bellini. Imagine exploring grand halls filled with masterpieces. Be captivated by Giorgione's "The Tempest," Titian's "The Pity" and "The Presentation of Mary at the Temple," and Carpaccio's stunning cycle of St. Ursula stories.

But the Gallerie dell'Accademia offers more than just these highlights. The museum provides a comprehensive journey through Venetian art, with dedicated rooms showcasing different eras and styles. Discover works by Bellini, Veronese, Tintoretto, Giorgione, Cima da Conegliano, Canaletto, and many more.

The Gallerie dell'Accademia isn't just about paintings – look for sculptures by renowned artists like Canova and Hayez. Don't miss temporary exhibitions, especially during the Venice Biennale art fairs, which bring in even more artistic treasures.

• Burano

A 40-minute Vaporetto ride from Venice, Burano is a colorful island known for its brightly painted houses and vibrant atmosphere. The island is home to Venice's largest community of fishermen. Instead of cars, each house has a small boat tied up outside, making the town feel like a fairytale.

Burano's houses are painted with some of the brightest neon colors in the world. Visitors love strolling the colorful streets, perfect for photography. The island is famous for its lace-making tradition, with shops where you can watch local artisans at work. Be sure to visit the 13th-century church of Santa Caterina and the Chiesa di San Martino, which features an ancient 17th-century bell tower.

Enjoy a meal at Trattoria Al Gatto Nero, renowned for its seafood and pasta. Don’t miss the chance to taste the local butter cookies called ‘bussolai buranelli’ and savor the fresh seafood at the island's casual eateries. Burano offers a unique and picturesque escape from Venice.

• Scuola Grande di San Rocco

The Scuola Grande di San Rocco in Venice, Italy, is famous for its stunning collection of paintings by Tintoretto. Commissioned to create these masterpieces, Tintoretto, his assistant, and his son Domenico filled the Scuola with over 60 artworks. Key pieces can be found in the Sala Terrena, Sala Superiore, and Sala dell’Albergo. Works by other renowned artists like Titian and Palma il Giovane are also on display.

The Scuola is located next to the Church of San Rocco, which holds the remains of saints. The building itself is beautiful, with a white exterior, colorful artwork around the windows, and a grand entrance door. Inside, visitors can explore the elegant main entrance hall, the medical museum, and the ancient library. The rooms are adorned with golden and blue carvings on the walls and ceilings, giving them a royal look.

Music is an important part of Scuola's history, with musicians like Giovanni Gabrielli and Stravinsky once performing there. Today, melodious music still fills the hall, attracting many visitors. The Scuola Grande di San Rocco is a must-visit site, offering a blend of art, history, and music that appeals to everyone.

• San Giorgio Maggiore

Across the water lies San Giorgio Maggiore, a beautiful island church known for its picture-perfect facade. Its white marble facade gives it an elegant look, contrasting with the colorful and spacious interiors. Natural light fills the church during the day. Columns separate the choir and high altar, adding to its beauty.

The church houses renowned paintings like "The Last Supper," "The Entombment of Christ," "The Fall of Manna," and "Madonna Enthroned with Saints." Visitors can also reach the top of the basilica for a stunning view of Venice's main island.

• Peggy Guggenheim Collection

The Peggy Guggenheim Collection is a must-see for art enthusiasts in Venice. Housed in Peggy Guggenheim's former residence, the Palazzo Venier dei Leoni, the museum showcases modern art masterpieces.

Imagine strolling through Peggy Guggenheim's beautiful home, now a museum brimming with art. Admire works by 20th-century giants like Picasso, Dalí, and Pollock. Don't miss the charming garden, where Peggy and her beloved dogs rest.

The Peggy Guggenheim Collection offers a unique look at modern art, focusing on European and American works from the first half of the 1900s. See paintings, sculptures, and more from Cubist, Futurist, Abstract Expressionist, Surrealist, and avant-garde movements.

Major artists like Picasso, Dalí, Braque, and Pollock are all part of the permanent collection. Temporary exhibitions also bring in works from other renowned artists. The museum's sculpture gardens feature works by Calder, Holzer, Caro, Judd, and Hepworth.

• Murano

Murano is a group of seven islands in the Venetian lagoon, about 1.5 km north of Venice. It’s famous for its glassmaking, a craft dating back to the 10th century. For over 700 years, Murano's skilled artisans have been creating beautiful glass objects. Legend says worried rulers moved glassmakers here to prevent fires in Venice.

Today, you can witness glassblowing demonstrations in factories, museums, and showrooms. Watch molten glass transform into stunning works of art!

But Murano offers more than glass. Explore the island's charming canals, historic churches, and interesting architecture. Relax at a waterfront cafe and enjoy the view.

Feeling adventurous? Take a glass-making class or learn about local life and culture on a walking tour. Don't forget to indulge in delicious Venetian food before you leave! Murano is a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience the artistry and beauty of Venetian glass.

• Torcello

Torcello, a peaceful island in the Venetian Lagoon, offers a glimpse into Venice's past. Though few live here, summer brings tourists eager to explore its history.

Visit the Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta to see Venetian-Byzantine mosaics and enjoy views from its bell tower. Other interesting sites include the Ponte del Diavolo, a unique bridge without railings, and Attila's Throne, an ancient stone seat.

Explore the Palazzo del Consiglio, a gothic building that once housed the government. The Torcello Museum contains artifacts from the Middle Ages, waiting to be discovered. Torcello offers a glimpse into Venice's rich history.

• Santa Maria Della Salute

Santa Maria Della Salute, near the entrance to the Grand Canal, is a stunning example of Baroque architecture. The church is adorned with white stones and high domes, creating a beautiful sight under the bright sun. Intricate carvings enhance the elegance of the exterior.

Inside, marble flooring with a central black dot is believed to radiate healing energy. Filtered sunlight streams through pale-tinted glass disks in the high dome. The highlight of the church is the grand Baroque high altar, adorned with a 12th-century Cretan icon of the Madonna of Good Health. Don't miss Titian's beautiful painting, "The Descent of the Holy Spirit," on a side altar near the entrance.

Entry to the church is free, but visiting the art-filled sacristy costs €4 for adults and €2 for students. Santa Maria Della Salute is a must-see for its architecture and art.

• Ca' D'Oro

Ca' D'Oro is a palace located on Venice's Grand Canal in northern Italy, renowned for its luxurious architecture and elegant style. Known as the "golden house," it dazzles visitors with its polychrome walls, gilded balconies, and impressive collection of fine arts.

Built between 1428 and 1430 by architects Giovanni and Bartolomeo Bon for the wealthy Contarini family, Ca' D'Oro exemplifies Venetian Gothic architecture. It has long symbolized prestige and wealth, reflecting the family's influence in Venice, which included eight dukes and significant contributions to the state.

Today, Ca' D'Oro stands as a fascinating example of Venetian architectural styles. Tourists are eager to explore its intricate details and prime location overlooking the Grand Canal and historic bridges like the Rialto. But Ca' D'Oro offers more than stunning views. Inside, a renowned art gallery houses works by artistic giants like Picasso and Rembrandt.

Don't miss Ca' D'Oro - a true gem where art and architecture come together!

• Desdemona’s House

Desdemona’s House in Venice, traditionally linked to Desdemona from Shakespeare’s "Othello," is a unique cultural site. Located in the charming San Polo district near the Grand Canal, the house features Gothic windows, ornate balconies, and a weathered facade, showcasing Venetian architecture.

While its connection to Desdemona is more legend than fact, the house enchants visitors with its romantic aura. This link to Shakespeare’s tragic heroine makes it a must-visit for literary enthusiasts. Walking through the narrow, winding streets to Desdemona’s House, one feels the evocative atmosphere of Venice, rich with history and romance.

Inside, the house often displays exhibits and artifacts celebrating Venice's literary and cultural heritage, including references to Shakespeare’s works. This blend of history and fiction allows visitors to step into the world of Othello and the Bard himself.

Whether you see it as a historical site or a tribute to literature, Desdemona's House offers a unique perspective on Venice. It's a reminder of the city's enduring beauty and its ability to inspire timeless stories.

• Bell Tower

The Bell Tower is an ancient structure in Venice's southeast square, known for its European architecture. Standing guard over St. Mark's Square is the iconic Bell Tower, a symbol of Venice for centuries. This grand structure boasts a unique design.

Imagine a square brick base topped by a white stone belfry with a balcony and a pointed spire reaching almost 100 meters high. An angel sculpture, the Archangel Gabriel, crowns the tower. Built over a thousand years ago, the Bell Tower has witnessed Venice's history. Unfortunately, the original tower collapsed in 1902.

Thankfully, it was rebuilt exactly as before, ensuring this landmark continues to grace the square. Take an elevator to the top for breathtaking views of Venice and beyond. A must-visit for any visitor to Venice!

• Clock Tower

Standing tall in St. Mark's Square is the famous Clock Tower, a recognizable symbol of Venice. Look for the clock face with its blue background, displaying the time, moon phases, and zodiac signs in gold. Two bronze figures, the Moors, strike the bell with their hammers every hour.

Above the clock is a small balcony with a statue of the Virgin Mary. Added in 1755 by Giorgio Massari, the tower features the winged Lion of St. Mark and a mosaic of gold stars on a blue background. Built in the 15th century, the tower reflects Venetian Renaissance architecture. Below, Calle Mercerei, one of Venice's busiest streets, passes through an arched gateway.

If you visit Venice during Epiphany, as the Moors strike each hour, you can see the Three Kings led past the Madonna by an angel.

Epiphany is a Christian holiday that celebrates two events: the visit of the Magi (Three Wise Men) to baby Jesus and the baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist. It marks the revelation of Jesus as the Son of God to the world. Climb the tower (if you dare!) for amazing views of the city. This 15th-century marvel is a great example of Venetian Renaissance architecture.

• Scala Contarini del Bovolo

Scala Contarini del Bovolo is a 15th-century palace with a distinctive spiral staircase. Climb to the top for panoramic views of Venice. The staircase’s design resembles a snail shell, giving it a unique architectural charm. The view from the top offers a different perspective of Venice’s rooftops and canals, making the climb worthwhile.

• Jewish Ghetto

The Jewish Quarter in Cannaregio is a historic area where Venice’s Jewish community was confined in 1516. Today, you can visit synagogues, the Jewish Museum, and a Holocaust memorial. Guided tours offer a deeper understanding of this important part of Venice’s history. The quarter is also home to kosher restaurants and traditional bakeries, providing a taste of Jewish culture in Venice.

• Museo del Vetro

Located on Murano, the Museo del Vetro showcases the history of glass-making from its origins to modern times. The museum features ancient vases, Renaissance tableware, and contemporary glass art. The exhibits showcase the technological progress and artistic skills of Murano's glassmakers. It's a must-visit for anyone interested in art and history.

• Lido

Lido is a long, narrow island with world-class beaches. It’s a perfect escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Visit in September for the Venice Film Festival, or enjoy cycling tours and walks year-round.

The island offers a mix of beach resorts and residential areas, providing a relaxed atmosphere. Lido’s Art Deco architecture and laid-back vibe make it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

• Teatro La Fenice

Teatro La Fenice is a stunning opera house known for its richly decorated interiors. Attend a performance or take a guided tour to appreciate its beauty. The theater hosts Venetian opera, ballet, and concerts.

La Fenice's history includes many successes and setbacks, such as multiple fires and rebuilds. This makes its current beauty even more impressive.

• Libreria Acqua Alta

Libreria Acqua Alta is a unique bookstore where books are piled in boats and bathtubs to protect them from flooding. The shop is also home to friendly cats that add to its charm. The quirky layout and whimsical decor make it a favorite spot for book lovers and curious travelers. It’s a great place to find both new and second-hand books, including rare editions and unique souvenirs.