Top 19 Things To Do in Venice in 2025

1. Share a Moment With Drunken Noah in Doge’s Palace

We’ve all had those moments—maybe a few too many drinks and suddenly, we’re in an awkward situation. A biblical story mirrors this scenario with Noah, who, after falling asleep without covering himself, was discovered by one of his sons. The son ratted his father out to his brothers, who then walked backward to avoid seeing their father’s shame while covering him with a cloak. This depiction serves as a reminder that we all need a little mercy from time to time, especially when indulging in the wine-filled atmosphere of Venice.

You’ll spot this depiction carved into one of the reliefs at the Doge’s Palace, but the palace holds many more hidden gems and intriguing stories. From a grand staircase adorned with colossal statues to a bridge that once bore the footsteps of prisoners, the Doge’s Palace is a treasure trove of Venetian history. It’s one of the most popular attractions in Venice, so grab your ticket, join the line, and uncover the true mischief of the Dukes of Venice.

While you’re there, you can also see these key areas within Doge’s Palace:

• Giant’s Staircase
• Great Council Chamber
• Bridge of Sighs
• Chamber of Torment
• Doge’s Apartment
• Prisons
• Armory
• Museo Dell’Opera
• Golden Staircase

Address: Piazza S. Marco, 1 | Admission Cost: from €25 for adults, depending on the type of ticket/access you purchase

2. Get Hot and Heavy at Murano Glass Factory

Glassblowing is an intense art form where the heat and pressure are as much a part of the process as the creativity. This fiery dance between heat and artistry creates stunning glass pieces that embody the nature of Murano Island.

It’s no wonder that the ancient glass masters in Venice were treated as royalty. In fact, in 1291, they were granted their own island to produce glass. This move not only protected Venice from potential fires caused by the glass blowing process, but it also safeguarded the glass masters valuable secrets.

Today, you can explore Murano Island’s intriguing history at the Murano Glass Museum and by touring its glass factories. But here’s your warning, the glass masters today are not as craft-focused as they were in the past. I’d even go as far as to say their expertise now seems to be equally split between glassblowing and pushy sales tactics.If you can get past the sales pitches, Murano Island is truly a work of art. 

Expert tip: Unfortunately, Murano Island is not walkable from Venice. But it is easy enough to reach Murano Island by Vaporetto, which is Venice’s floating mass transit service.The Island of Burano is nearby, which makes for a perfect side excursion to learn about Venice’s lace-making heritage. Combine both on an island-hopping half-day trip.

Address: Fondamenta Marco Giustinian, 8 | Admission Cost: €12

4. Meet the Cats of Libreria Acqua Alta

Prepare for crowds, tight spaces, and curious local cats eyeing you up—but in exchange, you’ll experience one of the most unique bookstores in the world. We don’t say that lightly.

The name Libreria Acqua Alta translates to the “Library of High Water,” because Venice is prone to floods. The man behind the bookstore, Luigi Frizzo, learned this lesson the hard way when high waters damaged a set of encyclopedias. He adapted by storing books in boats and bathtubs to protect them. Those damaged encyclopedias didn’t go to waste, though—they were repurposed into an incredibly quirky staircase.

Even today, the books are carefully stored in waterproof containers and inventive contraptions, all under the watchful eyes of the bookstore’s feline guardians. These cats have a knack for napping in the most unusual spots—like the very top of the tallest book stack. They’ll mostly ignore you—until you reach for the one book buried right in the middle of their snoozing nook. 

There’s a variety of items to purchase here, and even if you only pick up a postcard, it’s rewarding to support a business that has become a popular free tourist attraction.

Address: Calle Lunga Santa Maria Formosa 5176b

5. Splurge on Tiny Books and Locally Made Trinkets

Just down the street from the Libreria Acqua Alta bookstore is a little shop named La Bottega Di Pre Venezia, and inside, you’ll find the most satisfying collection of tiny Venice landmarks, libraries, and old-world charm hot air balloons. The shop owner crafts each piece by hand, making them a refreshing change from the cookie-cutter souvenirs you’ll see around town.

Sure, these treasures might set you back more than the run-of-the-mill souvenirs you’ll find elsewhere, but when you display it on your mantel back home, you’ll be smiling with satisfaction. And if you’re after a souvenir with a story, grab a magnet for around €15 and enjoy the bonus of watching a master at work.

Address: C. Longa Santa Maria Formosa, 5239

6. Skip the Meatballs, Order Like a Venetian Foodie

If you go to Venice and order your usual spaghetti with meatballs or chicken parm (neither of which exist in Italy), you’re making a big mistake. Even pizza in Venice is a no-no since it actually originated some 600 miles south in Naples. So, save yourself from disappointment and order like a local.

To start, try granseola alla veneziana, a dish featuring the renowned spider crab. The term granseola comes from the Venetian words granso (crab) and seola (onion). Spider crabs are quite large, and many believe their flavor rivals that of lobster.

Another dish to look out for is baccalà mantecato, which consists of crusty bread topped with creamy whipped stockfish. If you’re determined to enjoy pasta, try bigoli. This thick, hearty pasta is served with a salty red sauce made from sardines. Similar to spaghetti but with a rougher texture, it’s sure to satisfy your carb cravings.

Where to get it: Trattoria alla Madonna

7. Search for the Pickled Pork in St. Mark’s Basilica

Standing majestically in St. Mark’s Square, St. Mark’s Basilica is a must-see. Its dazzling domes and stunning floor make the modest entrance fee well worth it. For a unique twist, see if you can spot the mural featuring an unexpected hero: pickled pork.

Hidden in plain sight on the basilica’s facade is a mosaic featuring two men with pinched noses, clutching a basket. These are the Venetian merchants Buono and Rustico, who, in a brilliant act, smuggled St. Mark’s body past Muslim inspectors in Alexandria by covering it with pickled pork. The disgusted inspectors quickly closed the basket without further inspection, allowing Venice to gain its most prized relic.

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our St. Mark’s Basilica guide for more resources.

8. Get Tipsy at Campo Santa Margherita (Dorsoduro)

Campo Santa Margherita is the largest square in the Dorsoduro district of Venice. It is a long square with many bars and restaurants throughout, which makes it a great place to have an evening drink or plate of pasta. It also happens to be the largest open space in Dorsoduro—one of my favorite neighborhoods in Venice.

Why? Dorsoduro has more of a local feel that really comes out at night. Here you’ll often find lots of local students coming to decompress at the end of their day or week of studies. I definitely recommend dinner in Dorsoduro!

Address: Campo Santa Margherita

9. Break Your Coffee Budget at Caffé Florian (It’s Worth It)

Yes, you’ll have to shell out €25 for a cappuccino, and don’t count on top-notch service to justify the high price. However, this is one of those moments when it’s worth ignoring those money-saving tips. You’re not just paying for the drink; you’re securing a prime spot with a view of St. Mark’s Square and enjoying a leisurely experience in what is believed to be Europe’s oldest café. 

If the weather’s nice, I’d definitely recommend sitting outside to people-watch and enjoy live music. There are also multiple rooms inside that showcase the cafe’s 300-year-old history. If you choose to sit inside, ask the waiter to tell you the history of that particular room. You’ll be amazed at how interconnected this café is with world events. So, sit back and splurge just this once on a coffee or an aperitivo and enjoy life the way it was meant to be enjoyed.

Address: P.za San Marco, 57

10. Sip Wine on the Rooftops of San Polo

First off, who can resist a good rooftop bar? And secondly, with the amount of walking you’ll be doing in Venice, at some point, you’ll need to give your feet a well-deserved rest. I’ve searched high and higher for hidden rooftop bars but to no avail. So, instead, here are two rooftop restaurants that promise to be worth the visit:

Terrazza Danieli – located at the top of Hotel Danieli: Aim to arrive right at 3 p.m. when the bar opens for the best chance to snag a seat by the railing. You’ll quickly forget why €20 seemed expensive for a Prosecco as you savor spectacular views of the Grand Canal and Palazzo Dandolo.

Skyline Rooftop Bar – located in Hilton Molino Stucky Venice: Want to impress your significant other? I got you! Reserve a table about 30 minutes before sunset and sip on a mixologist’s masterpiece while Venice lights up around you.

11. Become an Art Snob at Punta Della Dogana

François Pinault is a French billionaire and an inspiring figure for any ambitious entrepreneur. He began his journey in a rural area, initially working in the timber trade by cutting down trees for his father. Today, he stands as one of the world’s foremost art collectors and boasts not one, but two museums in Venice.

If you have time to visit only one of the two, make sure to choose Punta della Dogana. You’ll not only enjoy a fascinating collection of sculptures but also experience an exceptionally cool location. Punta della Dogana, which translates to “customs checkpoint,” is aptly named as it stands at the very tip of the Dorsoduro neighborhood, marking the entrance to the Grand Canal.

Address: Dorsoduro, 2 | Admission Cost: €18

12. Escape the Crowds on Isola San Giorgio

The secret to an exceptional trip to Venice is to venture off the main island at least once. Venice is great—don’t get me wrong—but sometimes you need a break from the shoulder-bumping crowds. To do this, simply hop on a Vaporetto and explore beyond the main island.

The main attraction of Isola San Giorgio is the church of San Giorgio Maggiore. Entry is free, and for a mere €6, you can take an elevator to the top of the Basilica’s bell tower. Considering the best photo ops of Venice are from high above and outside of the main tourist areas, this one will certainly not disappoint. Even without spending a penny, you can admire impressive works by Tintoretto, the artist renowned for “The Last Supper.”

Another major highlight is San Giorgio Café, which offers fantastic waterfront seating. From here, you can enjoy stunning views of Venice and the San Giorgio Marina, including a picturesque glimpse of St. Mark’s Square. Plus, you won’t have to shell out €25 for a coffee as you would at Caffé Florian.

To get there, take Vaporetto (ferry) number 2 from San Marco-San Zaccaria E ferry station. It is one stop to San Giorgio ferry station and the best open space away from the main cluster of Venice.

Address: 30100 Venice

13. Find Serenity on the Rialto Bridge

The Rialto Bridge is often a bit crowded, being both one of the most iconic and oldest bridges spanning the Grand Canal. The original structure was a floating pontoon bridge built in 1181. While locals hurry across, dodging tourists who’ve suddenly stopped to snap a photo, you can park yourself up at the top of the bridge overlooking the water, and wait for gondolas to glide by. With gondoliers serenading their passengers and the onlookers enchanted by the scene, it’s the perfect setting to let go of your worries and embrace a moment of “totalmente spensierato”—pure, carefree bliss.

The bridge is one of the most recognizable bridges in the world and definitely something that cannot be missed while in Venice. It’s free to visit and walk across. If you want to get a little more in-depth, we offer a guided tour that explores the area, Rialto Bridge, and St. Mark’s Basilica. It is a great way to help you understand and enjoy Venice!

Address: Sestiere San Polo

14. Convince a Gondolier to Reveal Venice’s Secret Gardens

Venice is famous for its canals, but nestled amidst its stone and water are over 500 hidden gardens. Since most of these gardens are privately owned and concealed behind tall walls, it’s no wonder that many visitors remain unaware of their existence. However, with a bit of insider knowledge and the willingness to navigate a few wrong turns and dead ends, you can discover the few that are accessible to the public.

One notable garden is the Giardino della Marinaressa in the Castello district, where you can enjoy local art and find a tranquil escape from the bustling crowds. Another option is the Palazzo Querini Stampalia Gardens. To access this garden, you’ll need to purchase a ticket to the Fondazione Querini Stampalia museum. For €15, you’ll not only view impressive paintings but also gain entry to a charming secret garden.

Another way to experience Venice’s lush greenery is to enlist the help of a local gondolier and glide through residential canals. As you glide along, keep an eye out for trees and gardens peeking over ancient stone walls. Alternatively, take a break from navigating the language barrier and join a hidden canals tour for a more guided experience.

15. Fix Your T-Shirt Tan Line at Lido Beach

Before you pack a bag and set your sights on the beach, keep in mind that we’re not in Sardinia. But if you’re tired of sightseeing and are looking for a spot to laze in the sun with a cold drink in hand, Lido Beach will more than do the trick. Its clear water, relatively nice sand, and abundance of restaurants and beach clubs make it the perfect afternoon retreat. Treat yourself to a lounger rental or save your euros and bring a beach towel to lay out on.

To get here, you can take Vaporetto number 1 from St. Mark’s Square (Vallaresso) and get off at Lido (S.M.E). From there, walk across the island (10 minutes) to the beaches.

16. Drink a Shadow (Ombra)

If you visit a bacaro (local bar in Venice) and ask for an ombra, you’ll have firmly established yourself as a local. In popular culture, the bell tower’s shadow (ombra) is the term they use to describe a glass of wine in Venice.

Where did this tradition come from? Fishermen used to return from their midday fishing trips and enjoy a glass of wine in St. Mark’s Square. To escape the sun, they would stand in the ever-shifting shadow cast by the bell tower. When you order an ombra today, you should specify whether you want a “bianca” (white) or “rossa” (red) wine. The bartender will then serve you a glass of the house wine.

17. Give Your Diet a Vacation at Nino & Friends

What’s a vacation without a few extra pounds as a souvenir? Especially when those few extra pounds come from a place as enchanting as Nino & Friends? Think of it as a candy store for adults but with way more charm. While many visit for their chocolate, the real gem is their cookies—particularly the cappuccino cookies, which are a hidden treasure. So, if you’re in Venice, make sure to pop in between adventures. You won’t regret it.

Address: Salizada S. Lio, 5576

18. Explore the Tumultuous History of Teatro La Fenice

Teatro La Fenice is renowned as one of the most stunning opera houses in the world, and attending a show is a chance to experience its magnificent interior. What makes the theater even more captivating, however, is its tumultuous history.

The story goes that the original Teatro La Fenice was built in the late 18th century but tragically burned down in 1771. Undeterred, the owners rebuilt the theater on land partially owned by the Venier family, who were not pleased with the arrangement. After being forced to sell, the new opera house was constructed and aptly named Le Fenice—”the phoenix”—symbolizing rebirth. By 1792, it was completed and reopened with a triumphant performance of Paisiello’s “Giochi d’Agrigento.”

Yet fate had another twist in store. In 1836, a fire ravaged the theater once more, reducing it to ruins. After enduring two more fires and a lawsuit, it reopened in 1837. Since then, it has hosted legendary figures such as Verdi, Wagner, Stravinsky, and Pavarotti.

Address: Campo S. Fantin, 1965

19. Brave the Stench of Rialto Market

There’s nothing like the melodious banter of fishermen and vendors to kickstart the day. Skip the coffee for now and hop on a vaporetto to Rialto Bridge. A short three-minute walk will lead you to the vibrant Rialto Market.

Since the 11th century, this market has been a hub of trade, with merchants from across Europe and beyond bringing spices from the East, silks from China, and silver from European mines. But it’s always been the pescheria (the fish market) that steals the show, drawing crowds eager for the freshest catch.

Even today, if you arrive shortly before the market opens at 7:30 a.m. (Tuesday through Saturday) you’ll find the pescheria buzzing with fishermen unloading their catch. Local chefs are often among the first customers to arrive, snagging the best catches to serve while residents aren’t far behind. Be prepared, the smell of the sea is strong.

Address: Calle Prima de la Donzella, 306

Popular Venice Tours

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Ultimate Venice in a Day with Murano and Burano

The ultimate tour of Venice. You’ll get skip-the-line access to the most important buildings in Venice, plus a gondola ride, and private transportation to the islands of Murano and Burano. It’s a full day of touring that will make for the best memories in Venice ever.

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Venice in a Day Combo Tour with Gondola Ride

Only have a day in Venice and want to explore the best places? You’ll love this tour that includes skip-the-line access to St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace so you don’t waste time! Not to mention, you’ll wander through the Cannaregio district and learn about Rialto Bridge before floating through the canals on your own gondola.

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Not ready to book a tour? Check out our article on the best Venice tours to take and why.

14. Shop and Check Out the Views at Fondaco dei Tedeschi

What is better than a shopping mall with rooftop views from an ornate 800-year-old building? Ok, there are a few things we can think of, but this is a great thing to do in Venice.

The modern structure of this building is a shopping mall where you’ll find lots of luxury goods as well as fantastic dining. The crowning jewel is its rooftop terrace view which you must book in advance. Don’t worry, the rooftop is free to visit, but they do limit visitors to avoid a crowded experience.

Address: Calle del Fontego dei Tedeschi

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our article on the best Venice tours to take and why.

15. Eat Cookies at Nino & Friends

It’s never a bad time for a sweet treat, and Nino & Friends is, without a doubt, my favorite producer of sweets. People come here for their chocolate but I also love that their store feels magical in addition to the delicious cookies. The brand is originally from Naples, and you might see these stores all over Italy. My wife and kids go nuts for their cappuccino cookies. I highly recommend stopping by their Venice location in between activities.

Address: Salizada S. Lio 5576

16. Drink a Shadow (Ombra)

If you go into a bacaro (local bar in Venice) and ask for an ombra, you’ll have firmly established yourself as a local. In popular culture, the bell tower’s shadow (ombra) is the term they use to describe a glass of wine in Venice.

Where did it originate? Fishermen would come back from fishing at midday and have a glass of wine in St. Mark’s Square. To hide from the sun, they’d stand in the ever-moving shadow that the bell tower casts across the piazza. When you ask for an ombra, you should also say bianca (white) or rossa (red). At that point, the bartender will bring you a glass of house wine.

Where to get it: Osteria al Portego

17. Spend an Evening at the Opera

Teatre La Fenice is one of the most beautiful opera houses in the world with a deeply difficult past. All of the information below was provided by the opera house.

It was first built in the late 18th century but burned down in 1771. They rebuilt it partially on the land of the Venier family who did not appreciate the theatre. The owners had to sell it and built a new opera house that they named Le Fenice, which means “the phoenix.” The name obviously points to the story of the phoenix rising from its ashes.

They completed it in 1792 and opened with the symphony I Giochi d’ Agrigento by Giovanni Paisiello, which brought fame to the house. In 1836, the opera house burnt down for the second time. After two fires and one lawsuit, the owners decided to rebuild the house for the third time. The opera house opened again in 1837 and patrons described it as even more beautiful than ever before. The third time was the charm!

Famous composer Verdi had a bit of a residence there between 1844 and 1857 where he composed five operas. Many famous composers would follow, including Rienzi, Richard Wagner, Stravinskij, and music by the famed Pavarotti.

It is easily one of the most ornate opera houses on Earth and a treat to visit. You can view their lineup for a fancy night out at Le Fenice opera schedule.

Address: Campo S. Fantin 1965

18. Get Your Sun on at Lido Beach

When you think of Venice, you normally don’t think of beautiful Italian beaches, but it is still an island with beaches—if you can get to them. The municipality of Venice extends past the main cluster of islands to include many other satellite islands like Murano, Burano, Giudecca, and the barrier island of Lido.

Lido happens to have some great beaches for an afternoon under the warm Italian sun. It’s clear water, nice sand, and lots of restaurants and beach clubs in pure Italian fashion.

To get here, you can take Vaporetto number 1 from St. Mark’s Square (Vallaresso) and get off at Lido (S.M.E). From there, you walk across the island (10 minutes) to the beaches.

Address: Lido Beach