What to Do in Venice: Your Ultimate Travel Guide
Venice, a city of canals, romance, and history, offers an unparalleled experience for every traveller. Famous for its enchanting waterways, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture, Venice is a destination brimming with possibilities. Whether you're exploring what to do in Venice in 1 day or planning a longer visit, this guide will help you uncover what to see and do in Venice, from the must-sees to the truly unique experiences.
Events found for Venice
Venues found for Venice
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Scuola Grande di San Teodoro
Venice, Italy
The Scuola Grande di San Teodoro is one of eight 'Scuole Grande' in Venice. It was founded in 1258. In 1960 San Teodoro was reconstructed and today it is used as a venue for cultural events.
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Chiesa di San Vidal
Venice, Italy
The Church San Vidal was built in 1084, today it is frequently used as a concert hall for chamber concerts.
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Palazzo Barbarigo‐Minotto
Venice, Italy
Facing the Grand Canal, this splendid 15th century palace bears decorative elements by famous artists.
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Teatro La Fenice
Venice, Italy
The Teatro La Fenice was founded in 1792. In the nineteenth century, the theatre staged the world premieres of numerous operas, including Rossini’s Tancredi, Sigismondo and Semiramide, Bellini’s I Capuleti e i Montecchi (The Capulets and the Montagues) and Beatrice di Tenda, Donizetti’s Belisario (Belisarius), Pia de’ Tolomei, and Maria de Rudenz, and Verdi’s Ernani, Attila, Rigoletto, La traviata and Simon Boccanegra.
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Santa Maria della Pietà
Venice, Italy
S. Maria della Pietà, 'Church of Vivaldi,' has Tiepolo frescoes, connected to Vivaldi. Since 1978, it hosts concerts honoring Vivaldi's legacy.
Popular Topics in Venice
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Concerts in Venice
Classical Music in a City of Echoes and Elegance
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Venice Opera
Tickets for Venice opera. Purchase your e-Ticket today!
An overview of opera performances in Venice
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Palazzo Barbarigo Minotto Venice
Opera Tickets and Schedule
Opera up close and personal in Venice
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Venice Christmas Concerts
Find Schedule and Tickets
Information, Schedule and Tickets
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church concerts in Venice
Fixtures and tickets
Information, Schedules and Tickets
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Top Experiences in Venice
Book one of the experiences that other customers have liked and recommended:
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Venice Music Museum + Audio Guide
Explore a cornerstone of Italian cultural history with an audio‐guided visit to the Venice Music Museum. This extraordinary exhibition space inside the San Maurizio church is dedicated to the rich tradition of Italian violin making. The collection "Antonio Vivaldi and his time" by Maestro Artemio Versari takes you on a journey into the golden age of Italian violin making, telling the story of 18th‐century Venetian music through pieces belonging to the various workshops or "schools" that made Italian manufacture famous throughout Europe. While musical instruments are prized for their attractive shapes and decorations, very little is widely known about their construction, and the fine details that separate high‐class craftsmanship from true works of art. With this audio‐guided visit to the Venice Music Museum, you'll learn all about the master violin makers, like Antonio Stradivari, and how their distinctive traditional violin‐making techniques have never been bested.
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FOR CIVITATIS: Absolute Venice tour
This tour combination is the right one for those who crave a full immersion into Venice and its ever lasting symbols. A tour not only to see Venice, but to experience this City through its history and glorious past, still shining in its historical sites and legendary characters. A walking tour, to explore the hidden corners of the city and to learn interesting facts about life in a water city and the past of Venice. The Doge’s Palace, Venice’s symbol and architectural masterpiece. The Basilica: One of the most beautiful cathedrals in the world Our combo will start with a beautiful walking tour which will take us among the most hidden and peaceful corners of Venice. An unforgettable tour to discover Venice through its narrow alleys called “calli”, countless bridges and wide traditional and picturesque squares, still the heart of Venetian people's social life. We will discover the famous sites as well as hidden gems mixed with interesting facts about the city of the Serenissima and its everlasting history. The first highlight of the walking tour is St. Mark’s square, with the description of the majestic St. Mark’s Basilica, the elegant Doge’s Palace, the Clock Tower and the Procuratie (only external, for now). From St. Mark’s square we will move forward to Campo Santa Maria Formosa, where we will admire the SS. Giovanni e Paolo church with the famous Pantheon. Follow the Scuola Grande di San Marco also knowns as “Great School of Charity” (the Captains of Fortune). Last but not least, head back to St. Mark’s and admire the Malibran Theatre, step through the famous Mercerie, once the pulsing heart of commercial life back in time, nowadays Venice’s main shopping district between Rialto Bridge and St Mark’s Square. Please note that this first part of the tour will completely take place outside and it does not include any admittance to local sites. Follows a visit to one of the most famous symbols of Venice: The Doge’s Palace. The Doge’s Palace is one of the most important symbols of Venice. For centuries, it has represented the seat of the Venetian political power. In its majestic rooms, the Doge and his Council ruled the fate of the Serenissima Republic for centuries, surrounded by hundreds of art masterpieces. Today, the symbol of Venice and its power is still standing in all its beauty and majesty, everyday taking travelers' breath away. Another indisputed symbols of venice is the St Mark Basilica, a beautiful example of Byzantine architecture where Eastern and Western architecture run into each other. Here, we will learn more about the everlasting history of Venice, about St Mark and how his ruins came to rest and be shielded here. Surrounded by the Basilica’s beautiful gold mosaics and marble inlays, our professional guide will take us along the history and the special features of this unique masterpiece.
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Doge's Palace & Venice Museums Pass
Want to learn more about Venice's history and culture? The Museums Pass can get you there! It offers access to Venice's Civic Museums and the Doge's Palace, inviting you to learn about their historical significance. Look forward to seeing Venice's esteemed art collections, packed with works that depict the city's dynamic history. But there's more! The Pass also gets you into the Textile, Costume, and Perfume Collection.
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Venice highlights walking tour — private
Explore the beautiful city of Venice with our professional local guide. Discover the hidden squares, typical canals and historical buildings: this is an introduction to the origins, traditions and architecture of Venice. Throughout the tour, our guide will point out architectural and historical highlights, sharing intriguing tales of how Venice has bloomed over the decades.
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Good morning Venice: Coffee, deserts with Highlights of Venice
Start your day with some coffee just like the local, then head off to Rialto, Piazza San Marco and surrounding areas to hear tales and legends of how Venice came to be, and enjoy tasty breakfast like how a local would. If you are looking for a highlights of Venice and enjoy a stroll through the wonderful streets of Venice along while keeping your taste bud entertained with very good coffee and tasty deserts here and there from different famous local bakeries, this tour is for you.
Must‐See Attractions: The Classics of What to Do in Venice
If you’re planning what to do in Venice, start with the city's iconic landmarks. Begin your journey in Piazza San Marco, home to St. Mark's Basilica and the Campanile. Climb to the top of the bell tower for breathtaking views of the city.
Another must see in Venice is the Doge’s Palace, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Wander through its ornate halls and cross the Bridge of Sighs, where history and legend intertwine. For art lovers, the Gallerie dell’Accademia houses an exceptional collection of Venetian Renaissance masterpieces.
A gondola ride along the Grand Canal is undeniably one of the best things to do in Venice. Glide past palaces, bridges, and picturesque waterways while soaking in the city’s charm.
What to Do in Venice by Day and Night
During the day, enjoy a leisurely stroll through Venice’s labyrinthine streets and squares. Visit the Rialto Market to experience local flavours and vibrant Venetian life. Don’t miss a walk across the iconic Rialto Bridge, a highlight of what to see and do in Venice.
As the sun sets, Venice takes on a magical atmosphere. Wondering what to do in Venice at night? Take an evening vaporetto ride along the Grand Canal to see the city’s landmarks illuminated. For an unforgettable cultural experience, attend a classical concert or an opera performance at Venice concert venues like Chiesa di San Vidal, which regularly hosts performances of Vivaldi’s works. Alternatively, experience opera in an intimate setting at Palazzo Barbarigo-Minotto, or enjoy a performance at Santa Maria della Pietà, where Vivaldi once composed and performed.
If you prefer a romantic dinner, dine at a canal-side trattoria or sip a classic Venetian spritz in Campo Santa Margherita. These evening activities ensure you experience the charm of Venice both by day and by night.
Venice Tips and Attractions
Venice offers something special in every season. Whether you’re exploring what to do in Venice in 2 days or planning a longer stay, the city’s charm never fades. During warmer months, enjoy outdoor concerts or gondola rides, while winter offers quieter streets and a serene atmosphere.
Check for Venice events like the Venetian Carnival in February, a spectacle of costumes and masks, or the Biennale, which showcases art and architecture. Venice’s dynamic calendar ensures there’s always something new to discover.
Unique Things to Do in Venice
For those seeking unique things to do in Venice, consider exploring the quieter islands of the Venetian Lagoon. Murano is famous for its glassmaking tradition, while Burano enchants visitors with its brightly coloured houses and lace craftsmanship. Torcello, with its ancient cathedral, offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city.
Another unique experience is getting lost in the charming backstreets of Venice. Wander through the lesser known sestieri (districts) like Castello or Santa Croce, where you’ll discover hidden courtyards, quaint bridges, and authentic local eateries. These areas provide a glimpse of Venetian life away from the tourist crowds and are perfect for those looking to see a different side of the city.
Exploring Venice’s Neighbourhoods
Wondering what to do in Venice in 1 day? Start by exploring the historic centre. Visit Piazza San Marco, tour St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace, and take a gondola ride along the Grand Canal. If you have more time, wander through the charming neighbourhoods of Cannaregio or Dorsoduro.
Cannaregio, the historic Jewish Ghetto, offers a fascinating blend of history and culture, while Dorsoduro is home to the Peggy Guggenheim Collection and quiet, picturesque canals. Venice’s neighbourhoods reveal the city’s diverse character and charm.
Food and Dining in Venice
When deciding what to do in Venice, be sure to indulge in its delicious culinary offerings. Venice’s cuisine is a treat for food lovers. Don’t miss dishes like sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines) or black squid ink risotto.
For a special dining experience, visit Antiche Carampane, known for its authentic Venetian dishes. For something more casual, try Osteria al Squero, where you can enjoy cicchetti (small plates) with a view of the canals. And don’t forget to end your meal with tiramisu, a Venetian classic.
Why Venice is Worth Visiting
Venice captivates visitors with its stunning canals, romantic charm, and rich cultural offerings. From the grandeur of St. Mark’s Basilica to the intimate atmosphere of its hidden corners, there’s always something new to discover in this enchanting city. Whether you’re wandering through the picturesque Piazza San Marco or gliding along the Grand Canal in a gondola, Venice’s charm is undeniable.
As you think about what to do in Venice, make sure to also check out Classictic for tickets to the city’s top classical performances, adding a memorable cultural experience to your visit. Venice’s combination of history, art, and vibrant local life ensures it remains one of the most magical destinations in the world.