What to see and do in Venice, Italy

Visited October 2022

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Venice, Italy is known for its cultural heritage, artistic legacy, and historic landmarks

Venice is a city in northeastern Italy which is built on 118 small islands that are separated by canals and connected together by over 400 pedestrian bridges. It is famous for its unique urban and architectural form, which is built on a lagoon and is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

We stayed at the Hotel Cavalletto & Doge Orseolo which is steps away from the San Marco Square and across a canal from the Hard Rock Cafe. There are numerous hotels and restaurants near the square. A causeway connects Venice with the mainland. There is a large parking garage and train station at the end of the causeway. The only ways to travel within the city is either by walking or by boat. The black line (#1) will take you from the train station to San Marco Square. There is also a water bus (Blue Line) which will take you from the airport to San Marco Square.

The ancient Veneti people inhabited the are in the 10th century BC. It was a major financial and maritime power during the Middle Ages and Renaissance, and a staging area for the Crusades. Part of the city is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

One of the most iconic attractions in Venice is the Grand Canal, which is the main waterway that winds through the city. It is lined with historic palaces, churches, and other buildings that are testaments to Venice's long and illustrious history. Visitors can take a gondola ride on the canal, which is one of the most romantic and picturesque experiences that Venice has to offer.

Another famous landmark in Venice is the Piazza San Marco, which is the city's main public square. The square is surrounded by several noteworthy buildings, including the Basilica di San Marco, a stunning example of Byzantine architecture, and the Palazzo Ducale, which was the former residence of the Doge of Venice, the city's ruler during the medieval period.

Venice is also renowned for its art and culture. The city is home to several art museums and galleries, including the Peggy Guggenheim Collection and the Gallerie dell'Accademia, which house some of the most important art collections in Italy. Venice is also known for its annual Carnival, which is a major festival that takes place in the weeks leading up to Lent. During the carnival, visitors can witness elaborate parades, costume contests, and street performances.

Finally, Venice's cuisine is also a significant attraction for many visitors. The city's traditional dishes include seafood, risotto, and polenta, and there are many restaurants and cafes that serve authentic Venetian cuisine. Overall, Venice is a unique and beautiful city that offers a rich blend of history, art, culture, and cuisine that is unparalleled anywhere else in the world.

Looking for things to do? Viator offers numerous tours in the Venice area. Click here for details.