Things To Do in Venice Italy

Venice, a city of islands interconnected by bridges, is a unique and enchanting destination. Its intricate canal network, adorned with gondolas gliding through the waters, creates a picturesque and romantic atmosphere. The city's historic architecture, including the iconic St. Mark's Square and the Rialto Bridge, showcases Venetian Renaissance style and intricate details. Narrow alleyways and charming piazzas invite exploration, while the city's rich cultural heritage and artistic treasures, such as the Doge's Palace and the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, make it a must-visit for history and art enthusiasts. We hope this Things To Do in Venice Italy post inspires you. 

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Things To Do in Venice Italy

The Doges

The Doges of Venice, or Doge of Venice, were the chief executive magistrates of the Republic of Venice. They held a position of immense power and prestige, overseeing both the government and the military. The doges were chosen through a complex electoral process involving various noble families. Their authority was substantial, but it was tempered by the Venetian Senate, which served as a check on their power. The doges presided over the Venetian Republic for centuries, playing a crucial role in its rise to prominence as a maritime power in the Mediterranean. Few visitors know about the morning Secret Itineraries Tour through the back passageways used in the glory days of the Venetian Empire and to the prison cell, across the Bridge of Sighs, that Casanova escaped so famously in 1756. 

Lively Neighborhoods

Venice has a lot more than popular tourist sights to entice travelers to stay longer. Cross Rialto Bridge to the San Polo neighborhood and lively morning food market alongside the Grand Canal. Meet the shellfish you'll see on your plate that day, and the chefs who will cook it in Venice's best restaurants.

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Plunge into the warren of narrow passageways behind the market to find the workshops and studios of artists who make and sell carnival masks, marbled paper, and fine art etchings. The wide Campo San Polo is alive with cafes, street musicians, and children playing soccer. The few tourists in this charming residential Venice are heading to the Church of the Friary, known for its magnificent painting by Titian, and the Scuola San Rocco, whose walls and ceilings are covered in Tintoretto paintings.

Stunning Churches

Farther on, in the Cannaregio quarter, are Europe's first Ghetto and the exquisite church of Santa Maria dei Miracoli, lined in patterns of colored marble. You are sure to get lost, wandering through tiny campos and along quiet canals lined by colorful Venetian houses. This is the best way to see the real Venice, the one that most tourists miss.

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Ride in a Gondola

Join locals to cross the Grand Canal in a traghetto, the poor man's gondola. For less than one Euro, you can ride in a genuine gondola, and save a long walk to the next bridge. Ride it to get from St Mark's to the exciting Peggy Guggenheim Collection in Dorsoduro, another good place to get lost. Look into Venice's only remaining gondola boatyard, the Squero di San Trovaso, then take a break for a glass of chilled Prosecco and a plate of cicchetti snacks at the tiny wine bar, Cantina del Vino glia Schiavi.

Things To Do in Venice Italy

These Venice icons top everyone's list, but visitors should also see St Mark's Basilica, dedicated to Venice's patron saint, not missing the gold altar and the priceless gold and silver work in the treasury. For a different perspective on St Mark's Square, climb to the porch above the main entrance, where the four horses look out onto the Campanile. We hope this Things To Do in Venice Italy post inspires you. Happy travels!

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