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Things to Do in Venice in 2025 - Top Attractions, Local Food, Hotels & Travel Tips (Updated April 2025) | Trip.com

About Venice

Recommended trip: 2–4 day(s)

Recommended trip: 2–4 day(s)

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Venice Local Experiences Map

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Venice Local Travel Guide 2025

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Venice Brief Guide

Venice is a uniquely beautiful canal city. Located in northeastern Italy, the whole city lies on the water. Water is Venice's soul. The beautiful structures of the city are all reflected in the water, as though all of Venice is afloat and drifting calmly. The Grand Canal is the “road” that passes through the whole city of Venice. Take a gondola and experience the water city's unique style. Don’t forget to try Venice's unique Spaghetti al Nero di Seppia (pasta with squid ink) and buy an exquisite hand-made mask before you go. Venice's wonders are not limited to the city’s center. On the azure waters of the Venetian Lagoon, there are many wonderful outlying islands that have to be seen, such as Burano, Murano and the Lido di Venezia.

Venice Must-try Local Experiences

1. Explore the Grand Canal by Gondola Experience Venice from its iconic canals by taking a gondola ride along the Grand Canal. Glide beneath ancient bridges, marvel at the grandeur of palazzo, and soak in the unique atmosphere of this historic waterway. 2. Discover the Heart of Venice Immerse yourself in Venice's historical heart by exploring St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace. Climb the campanile for panoramic views and step back in time within the opulent halls of the palace. 3. Discover Local Artifacts To delve into the traditional art of Venetian mask-making, you can either participate in workshops or browse through vibrant shops showcasing unique designs and craftsmanship. Additionally, don't miss out on Murano, famed for its glassmaking tradition. Witnessing a glassblowing demonstration will not only give you insight into this intricate craft but also offer the opportunity to purchase one-of-a-kind glass art pieces. 4. Experience Colourful Festivities Experience the Regata Storica, a thrilling gondola race on the Grand Canal with colorful boats and traditional costumes. The Venice Biennale, held every two years, showcases contemporary art from around the world. Additionally, the Venice Film Festival, held annually in late August or early September, is one of the oldest and most prestigious film festivals globally. 5. Experience Local Art Culture For a memorable cultural experience, attend a performance at Teatro La Fenice, one of the world's top opera houses. You'll be captivated by the grandeur of Italian operas and powerful music. Also, enhance your trip with concerts at the historic Church of San Vidal, featuring the works of Antonio Vivaldi. And you can find tranquility at the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, home to modern masterpieces, showcasing works by artists like Picasso, Pollock, and Dalí. These events offer a genuine taste of Venetian culture. 6. Savor the Flavors of Venice Indulge in Venetian cuisine with dishes like squid ink risotto and cicchetti, small snacks served in bacari, best enjoyed with a glass of local wine. Treat yourself to Venetian desserts like fritole and baicoli, paired with a cup of Italian coffee for a perfect culinary experience. 7. Find Unique Souvenirs in Venetian Workshops Discover artisan workshops in Venice's backstreets, offering exquisite Murano glass, handcrafted masks, and beautiful Burano lace as unique souvenirs. The Mercerie is Venice's main shopping street, offering a mix of high-end boutiques, souvenir shops, and local artisans. 8. Take Once-in-a-Lifetime Photos at Famous Places Enjoy stunning views from the Rialto Bridge, overlooking the lively Grand Canal and the city’s timeless charm. Burano’s vibrant houses make for a perfect photography backdrop, reflecting beautifully in the canals. Capture the iconic Bridge of Sighs, connecting the Doge's Palace to the prison, and uncover its fascinating history for an enriching Venetian experience. 9. Explore the Hidden Gems Escape the crowds and visit Palazzo Malipiero's secret garden, a peaceful retreat with lush greenery and elegant statues. Dorsoduro is an excellent choice for a less touristy experience, featuring charming streets, artisan shops, and local eateries. Don't miss Libreria Acqua Alta, a quirky bookstore where books are stored in bathtubs and gondolas to protect them from flooding. It’s a delightful place to explore.

Venice Travel Tips

1. Mind the Museum Schedules: Many museums in Venice have specific closing days, often on Mondays or Tuesdays. Verify the opening hours to ensure you don't miss out. 2. Dress Modestly for Churches: When visiting religious sites, ensure to dress modestly. Shoulders and knees should be covered to show respect. 3. Pickpocket Precautions: Be vigilant in crowded areas and on vaporettos. Keep valuables secure and be wary of distractions that might be part of a pickpocketing scheme. Popular spots for pickpockets include Piazza San Marco, Rialto Bridge, and crowded water buses. Use anti-theft gear like money belts and keep bags in front of you. Avoid carrying valuables in back pockets. 4. High Water Walkways: During aqua alta, elevated walkways called passerelle are set up in flooded areas. Use these to navigate safely and avoid walking through potentially contaminated water. Check tide forecasts and listen for sirens indicating high water levels. Avoid swimming or going barefoot in the water, as it can be cold and dirty. 5. Photography Restrictions in Churches: Photography is often prohibited inside churches and religious sites in Venice, such as St. Mark's Basilica. Look for signs or ask permission before taking photos. Some churches may allow non-flash photography, while others may have complete bans.

Venice Must-see Attractions

Venice is a city steeped in history and culture, renowned for its architectural marvels such as St. Mark's Square, the opulent Saint Mark's Basilica, the poignant Bridge of Sighs, the grand Doge's Palace, and the iconic Grand Canal, each offering visitors a glimpse into the city's rich heritage and vibrant social and political life.

Venice Where to Stay

Venice is a city of unparalleled charm, with its accommodation areas spread across various neighborhoods, each offering a unique experience to travelers. The city's hotels and other lodgings are nestled among historic palazzos, winding canals, and vibrant squares, providing a range of options from luxurious stays to budget-friendly accommodations.

Venice Food Guide

Venice's food scene is a blend of traditional Italian flavors and maritime influences, featuring iconic dishes like the Pizza Margherita, fresh seafood salads that showcase the city's lagoon heritage, and artisanal gelato with a variety of unique and classic flavors enjoyed in the city's charming alleys.

Venice Useful Guide

Venice's transportation infrastructure is centered around its airports and water-based transport, given its unique geography. Marco Polo Airport (VCE) is the primary international gateway to Venice, located just 12km from the city. It is well-equipped with modern facilities and offers a range of transport options to reach Venice, including land taxis and buses from the ATVO and ACTV lines, as well as water taxis and the Alilaguna waterbus service. Travelers can reach the city center conveniently from Marco Polo Airport, with the journey taking between twenty and ninety minutes depending on the mode of transport. Treviso Airport (TSF), approximately 25km from Venice, mainly serves low-cost airlines and offers a straightforward connection to Venice via a private taxi service or the ATVO public bus service. The airport is smaller than Marco Polo but still provides essential amenities for travelers. Venice's passenger ports are also a major component of its transportation network. The Port of Venice is a significant hub for cruise ships and sees around 2.5 million passengers annually. It offers extensive facilities for passenger handling and connects Venice to various seaports in the Adriatic and Aegean regions. The port is within walking distance from Piazzale Roma and the historical center, with the Marittima terminal being the largest for ocean liners. Smaller cruise vessels, hydrofoils, and catamarans are catered to at the San Basilio terminal. Additionally, the Venice Yacht Pier provides dockage for superyachts with services such as refueling and bunkering.

Things to do in Venice

What to Do

Looking for things to do in Venice? We provide up-to-date info on everything from must-see scenic spots to local hangouts.
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St. Mark's Square

St. Mark's Square

4.8/51,355 Review
Saint Mark's Basilica

Saint Mark's Basilica

4.7/5663 Review
Gondola Ride

Gondola Ride

4.5/591 Review
"Boat tour"
Doge's Palace

Doge's Palace

4.6/5326 Review
"Historic buildings"
Bridge of Sighs

Bridge of Sighs

4.6/5776 Review
St Mark's Campanile

St Mark's Campanile

4.6/5376 Review
"Night view"
Grand Canal

Grand Canal

4.8/5781 Review
"Night view"
Rialto Bridge

Rialto Bridge

4.5/5335 Review
Accademia art gallery

Accademia art gallery

4.5/537 Review
"Specialty exhibition halls"
Teatro La Fenice di Venezia

Teatro La Fenice di Venezia

4.5/526 Review
"Performances"
Burano

Burano

4.7/5356 Review
Glass Museum (Murano)

Glass Museum (Murano)

4.3/5109 Review
"Museums"

Where to Stay

Discover the most popular places to stay in Venice, complete with recommendations from fellow travelers and special hotel offers
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What to Eat

Want to eat like a local? Don't miss out on these top Venice dishes and foodie spots.
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Impronta

Impronta

4.8/5341 Review
Avg. USD61/person
"Western-style"
"Open Late"
al Paradiso

al Paradiso

4.5/527 Review
Avg. USD11/person
"Western-style"
Ristorante La Caravella

Ristorante La Caravella

4.7/56 Review
Avg. USD106/person
"Western-style"
"Time-honored Brand"
Da Mamo

Da Mamo

4.5/5167 Review
Avg. USD61/person
"Western-style"
Ai Gondolieri

Ai Gondolieri

4.3/598 Review
Avg. USD72/person
"Western-style"
Al Giardinetto da Severino

Al Giardinetto da Severino

4.7/569 Review
Avg. USD44/person
"Western-style"
"Time-honored Brand"
Osteria ai Do archi

Osteria ai Do archi

4.4/5157 Review
Avg. USD64/person
"Seafood"
Antica Besseta

Antica Besseta

4.7/538 Review
Avg. USD58/person
"Western-style"
Trattoria Zaccaria

Trattoria Zaccaria

4.6/5337 Review
"Bars/Bistros"
Hard Rock Cafe Venice

Hard Rock Cafe Venice

4.5/5129 Review
Avg. USD44/person
"Western-style"
"Open Late"
Ristorante Giardino d'Inverno - Hotel Papadopoli

Ristorante Giardino d'Inverno - Hotel Papadopoli

4.5/553 Review
Avg. USD58/person
"Western-style"
Punto G

Punto G

4.6/5489 Review
Avg. USD11/person
"Western-style"

Venice Moments: Through Travelers' Eyes

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#venice
#italy
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What People Are Saying About Venice

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St. Mark's Square

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雏菊旅行
Piazza San Marco is located in Venice, Italy, and is one of the most famous squares in the world. I. Historical Background 1. It was built in the 9th century AD and was originally just an open space in front of St. Mark's Basilica. 2. With the prosperity of Venice, the square was gradually expanded and decorated, becoming a political, religious and commercial center. II. Architectural Features 1. St. Mark's Basilica - The core building of the square, integrating various architectural styles such as Byzantine and Gothic. - The front of the church is decorated with gorgeous marble reliefs and mosaics, showing biblical stories and the history of Venice. - Five large domes and numerous spires make the church majestic. 2. Doge's Palace - Next to St. Mark's Basilica, it was the seat of government during the Republic of Venice. - The architectural style is unique, mainly white and pink marble, decorated with exquisite sculptures and colonnades. - There are many gorgeous rooms and halls inside, showing the art and culture of Venice. 3. Bell Tower - The landmark building on the square, up to 98.6 meters high. - It was first built in the 12th century and has been rebuilt and restored many times. - Visitors can take the elevator to the bell tower and overlook the beautiful scenery of Venice. 4. Colonnade - The square is surrounded by colonnades, providing tourists with shade and a place to rest. - The colonnade is decorated with many sculptures and reliefs, showing the history and culture of Venice. III. Cultural significance 1. Religious center - St. Mark's Square is the religious center of Venice, and St. Mark's Basilica is the seat of the Archbishop of Venice. - Many important religious ceremonies and activities are held here. 2. Art treasure house - The buildings and sculptures on the square are all art treasures, showing the artistic achievements of Venice. - The mosaics of St. Mark's Basilica and the murals of the Doge's Palace are world-famous works of art. 3. Tourist attraction - St. Mark's Square is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Venice, attracting millions of tourists every year. - The cafes and restaurants on the square are also a good place for tourists to relax and taste delicious food. IV. Events and Celebrations 1. Venice Carnival - Held every February, it is one of the most famous carnivals in the world. - Piazza San Marco is the main venue for the carnival, where people wear gorgeous costumes and masks, and hold parades, performances and dances in the square. 2. Feast of San Marco - Held on April 25 every year, it is an important festival in Venice. - People will hold grand celebrations in Piazza San Marco, including religious ceremonies, parades and fireworks displays.

Saint Mark's Basilica

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专属行程规划师
Unique architectural style • Byzantine style: St. Mark's Cathedral is based on Byzantine style, with five large round roofs, the church is in a Greek cross-shaped layout, and it is covered with five hemispheric domes. It is a typical Byzantine architectural feature. • Multiple styles integration: In the subsequent development, a variety of styles such as Gothic, Islamic, Renaissance styles are integrated. Gothic decorations such as pointed arches, railings and other Renaissance decorations have become a comprehensive artistic masterpiece of various genres. Exquisite decorative art • mosaic mosaics: more than 8,000 square meters inside and outside the church, from floors, walls to ceilings, themes cover the sermons of the twelve apostles, the crucifixion of Christ, the portraits of Christ and the prophets and saints, etc. The picture was covered with a gleaming gold foil, which made the whole church shrouded in gold. • Marble mosaic floor: Following the Byzantine church design principles, the ground adopts more than 2099 square meters of marble mosaic, with exquisite geometric patterns and natural patterns such as animals and flowers, showing the superb craft level of Venice. Precious historical relics • Horse of St. Mark: The four bronze horses replicas on the balcony above the main entrance are the famous "Horse of St. Mark", and the originals are kept in the Marcia Museum inside the cathedral. The four ancient Roman bronze horse statues, probably originally from Greece, were the loot of the Fourth Crusade. • Imperial statue: There is a statue of four emperors carved from purple porphyry in the southeast corner of the cathedral, a relic of the late ancient Rome, showing the four emperors who ruled the Roman Empire together, brought back from Constantinople, a symbol of the glorious history of the Venetian Empire. • The Virgin of Nicopia: This is a Byzantine icon, estimated to be created between the 6th and 7th centuries, originally dedicated to Constantinople, the Cathedral of Saint Sophia, was brought to Venice after the Fourth Crusade, considered to have magical powers, It is the protected icon of the Republic of Venice. Important religious facilities • Gold Altar screen: Above the main altar, it is the world-famous "Gold Altar screen", made of pure gold and gemstones, set with more than 1,300 gems and pearls, showing the image of Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit, a masterpiece of medieval metalwork art. • Jesus Ascension Dome: Located in the center of the cathedral, it depicts the scene of Jesus Christ ascending forty days after resurrection, completed by many excellent Venetian craftsmen in the thirteenth century, and the center of the dome is the image of Jesus being lifted up by angels.

Gondola Ride

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Alaine08
Our experience in Venice was unforgettable, thanks to the perfect combination of a serene gondola ride and an insightful walking tour. The gondola ride was peaceful and gave us a unique view of the canals, while our guide was fantastic—knowledgeable, friendly, and engaging. We learned so much about the city's history and hidden gems as we walked through its charming streets. A truly memorable way to experience Venice from both the water and the land. Highly recommend this experience for anyone visiting!

Doge's Palace

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M38***99
It is worth going, that is, the ticket is a bit pitted, and only one of the other museums has gone, not this interesting. The square is worth seeing, the interior is a bit like Versailles? The theme is mostly a series of praises and virtues, borrowing ancient myths or religions or historical materials.

St Mark's Campanile

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zinnia_615
Marco Bell Tower (St Mark's Campanile) is definitely one of the most worth visiting in Venice! This 16th-century bell tower towers high and there is an angel statue at the top, which is simply a landmark in Venice. Address P.za San Marco, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy• Great view to climb the clock tower, you can overlook the entire Venice Water City 360 degrees, the red roof, the winding canal, the distant island.. The view is panoramic! Taking pictures and punching in is absolutely awesome

Bridge of Sighs

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雏菊旅行
The Bridge of Sighs is a bridge with unique charm and historical significance. I. Geographical location The Bridge of Sighs is located in Venice, Italy. It connects the Duke of Venice and the prison, across the Palace River. 2. Architectural features 1. Design - The Sigh Bridge is a Baroque bridge with beautiful shapes. The bridge is enclosed, covered with a dome on the upper part and white marble railings on both sides of the bridge. - Its unique enclosed structure adds a mysterious and depressing atmosphere. 2. Building materials - mainly made of white marble and limestone, durable, and baptisms still stand after years. 3. The name is often given as a sigh when death row prisoners are taken to the scene of the death, passing through the airtight bridge. Historical and Cultural Values 1. Historical Witness - The Bridge of Sighs witnesses the historical changes of Venice, including the development of politics, law and society. It is a symbol of the judicial system during the Republic of Venice. 2. Literary and artistic inspiration - The bridge of sighs has appeared in many literary works and artistic creations. It has inspired countless writers, poets and artists and has become a symbol of romance and mystery. - The bridge is more famous for its vivid depiction of the sigh bridge in his works by the British poet Byron. V. Tourism significance 1. Unique landscape - The bridge is now one of Venice's most famous tourist attractions. Visitors can take a gondola ride under the bridge to enjoy the beautiful appearance of the bridge and the surrounding scenery. 2. Romantic legend - legend that if couples kiss under the bridge of sighs, their love will be eternal. This romantic legend attracted many couples to punch in, adding to the romantic atmosphere of the sigh bridge.

Grand Canal

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Travelwithblueeyes
It’s so beautiful wow amazing views boats atmosphere even in November it’s no sobusy so much better to get about

Rialto Bridge

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DM-04
You definitely have to see this unique bridge when you are in Venice. it is divided into 3 sections. the middle one has shops on the bridge (both sides) and on either side of this are steps to go up and down. You can enjoy the beautiful view of Grand Canal from here. There are water taxi’s, water buses and gondola’s going up and down the canal. Best time to go is early morning or in the evening when it is less busy. There are hawkers selling red roses so you can have a romantic moment there and capture them.

Accademia art gallery

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Jerry游世界
The exhibition hall has two floors. It is expected that the visit time can be more than 2 hours. If you like Venice, you can visit and see 2 works of Titian, Dintoletto, Potichelli, Giorgio Ne, etc. The art museum in Venice is really beautiful and unbearable. It is a pleasure to see the Master Art Exhibition in Venice. Every time you go to the exhibition, you can go to the exhibition for an afternoon... It is highly recommended to go to the art museum!

Teatro La Fenice di Venezia

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小思文
The Phoenix Opera House is also quite interesting. The opera is very rich. The internal structure of the opera house is also quite atmospheric. Every performance of the opera is more attractive. The tourists who visit here are also very hungry. The large opera variety is also very good.

Venice: FAQ

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What's the most popular attractions in Venice?

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Here are the best places to visit in Venice, including: Doge's Palace,St. Mark's Square,Canal Grande

How to get to Venice from Paris?

Sorry, I just got it wrong. Paris to Venice is still convenient for flying. If you book in advance, you usually have a special ticket of 50 or 60 Euro.

What's the best food in Venice?

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Going to Venice, you must eat pasta such as squid pasta, espresso, margarita pizza pasta, etc.

Best selfie spot in Venice?

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St. Mark's Square, Church, Bell Tower,

What is the most beautiful place in Venice?

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Bridge of Sighs, St. Mark's Square

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