Castello is the largest of the six main sestieri (neighborhoods) of Venice. It encompasses the entire eastern portion of the island and is home to many impressive monuments, outstanding restaurants, and the famous Biennale art installation.
Named after a former fortress on the island of San Pietro, Castello stretches from the center of the town near Rialto in the west to the Arsenale and Giardini Gardens in the east. There is no shortage of things to do and see in this vibrant district.
Take a stroll down Venice’s widest street, Via Garibaldi, which is lined with small shops, fantastic bars, and lovely cafes that exude a unique atmosphere. On weekday mornings, Via Garibaldi is also home to a fantastic outdoor market selling fish, fresh fruit, and vegetables. For a peaceful escape from the bustling city, visit the Giardini. This beautiful green space invites visitors to explore nature in a quiet environment.
Castello is also home to many landmarks. Some of the top sights include the Basilica dei Santi Giovanni e Paolo (San Zanipolo), the Chiesa di San Zaccaria, the Arsenale di Venezia, the Chiesa di Santa Maria della Pieta, and the Scuola Grande di San Marco. Other prominent sites and buildings in Castello include the Church of San Giorgio dei Greci, the Campo Santa Maria Formosa and Church of Santa Maria Formosa, and the Venetian Arsenal.
If shopping is on your agenda, Castello has plenty to offer. You can buy shoes or clothes at shops such as Dalmatian School, Scriba Venice, Max Studio, I Tre Mercanti, and Domino Arte.
For those interested in nightlife, Castello has several bars and clubs to choose from. Some of the top spots include Bar Dandolo, LondraBar, Venezia – Vincent Bar a Sant’ Elena, and Bar Al Canton.
If you’re feeling hungry, there are many restaurants in Castello where you can enjoy delicious pizza. Some of the top pizza places include Crazy Pizza, Cip Ciap Pizza, C’e Pizza e Pizza, Farini, and Vecia Gina.
For your convenience, there are several mini-market or supermarket chains in Castello such as Billa, Punto, and Coop.
Finally, there are two public restrooms in Castello. The first one is located in Bragora (open from 10:00 – 19:00) and the second one at Pineta Sant’Elena (open from 14:00 – 17:00) near Giardini Sant’Elena. Please note that public restrooms in Venice charge a fee of €1.50.