Explore Essentials: Things to Do in Venice

“Venice offers a range of experiences for all types of travellers, from fascinating museums and intriguing historic sites to spectacular outdoor spaces. Here are the best things to do in Venice, whether you’re travelling with friends or family.

### Visit St Mark’s Basilica

St Mark’s Basilica is a famous landmark of Venice and a must-see on your trip. This marvel of architecture has been standing since the 11th century and is still regarded as one of the most important religious structures in the country. From its ornate detail and masterpieces of sculpture to its historic painted frescoes and Byzantine artwork, there’s so much to see within this domed building.

### Explore St Mark’s Square

St Mark’s Square is a famous piazza along the grand canal. Located opposite the island of San Giorgio Maggiore, the square is surrounded by ornate buildings and arched walkways to stroll along and take in the views of landmark buildings, such as St Mark’s Campanile and Doges Palace.

_Photo by Candré Mandawe on Unsplash_

### Take a ride on the Canale Grande

Gondola rides down the network of canals is a quintessential Venice experience. The largest canal is the Canale Grande, a monumental canal that passes from one end of the city to the other. During a gondola ride, you’ll see over 100 medieval buildings on its banks that showcase its value as a waterway for the city.

### Take in views from Ponte di Rialto

Ponte di Rialto is one of the spectacular bridges that span the grand canal, connecting the San Polo and San Marco districts. You can walk along the ornate stone bridge and stop to take pictures of iconic gondolas in the water, enjoy the details of the bridge from the banks or stop in one of the shops along the bridge that sell a range of souvenirs and jewellery.

_Photo by Alisa Anton on Unsplash_

### Visit the Gallerie dell’Accademia

The museum of the Gallerie dell’Accademia houses an impressive collection of pre-19th-century artwork by Bellini, Titian and Canaletto. Located in a former convent, the Gallerie dell’Accademia is the place to see famous works of art, such as ‘Vitruvian Man’ by Da Vinci, ‘Virgin and Child’ by Titian and ‘The Resurrection of Christ’ by Tintoretto.

### Relax at Venice Lido

If you want a seaside break from the city, the Venice Lido is the ideal spot. This island on the Adriatic Sea has long stretches of soft sand for sunbathing and relaxing, unique shops and excellent restaurants to explore.

### See Doges Palace

Located off of St Mark’s Square is Doges Palce, an ornate palace with a beautiful arched design of immaculate white stone and diamond patterns. Inside, you’ll find lavishly decorated rooms with original details, furniture and masterpieces of artwork. Tours of the palace are available to learn more about the architecture and artefacts within it.

_Photo by Soroush Karimi on Unsplash_

### Experience the legend of the Bridge of Sighs

The Bridge of Sighs is a small bridge, but it’s an important historic landmark with an enduring legend. As the story goes, the criminals were taken from Doges Palace over the bridge, casting once glimpse at the expanse of Venice. They would then let out a sigh, considering their upcoming imprisonment and punishments. As one of the most iconic landmarks in the city, the Bridge of Sighs is a must-visit on your holiday.

### Marvel at San Marco Campanile

As one of the tallest structures in Venice, San Marco Campanile is a former watchtower that experienced fires, earthquakes and lightning strikes over the years. Its array of arches and stonework still stand, however, as well as the golden statue of the archangel Gabriel. You can admire the architecture from the Piazza di San Marco or take an elevator to the top for panoramic views of the city.

### See a glassblowing demonstration at Murano

Murano is a small island near the Venice district that boasts a unique charm and peaceful atmosphere. You’ll find numerous landmarks on the island, including the Campo Santo Stefano and Palazzo Da Mula, and quaint shops and restaurants. Murano is also famous for its glassblowing, and you can see live demonstrations at various glass factories.

_Photo by Jenny Kim on Unsplash_

### Visit Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta

The Church of Santa Maria Assunta is a majestic feat of architecture with stone columns, ornate statues of religious icons and intricate details. Constructed in the 18th century, the church interior holds an assortment of impressive artwork, such as Titian’s ‘Martyrdom of St. Lawrence’. The church is artwork on its own, complete with gold details, frescoes and elaborate motifs on the walls and columns.

Now that you know what not to miss, check out our guide on the best time to visit so you can begin planning your holiday to Venice.”