Must-Have Experiences and What To See In Venice

Updated: July 2023

Venice is a dream destination for many travelers, consistently ranking among the top three places people want to visit. It’s easy to see why: this stunning city is a feast for the senses, with its ageless beauty, old-world ambiance, and breathtaking architecture. From its churches and palaces to its winding canals and stone bridges, Venice is a visual indulgence that never fails to captivate visitors.

Located along the Adriatic Sea, Venice is a unique collection of 117 small islands connected by 378 stone bridges over its many canals. The city’s primary mode of transportation is on water, adding to its charm and uniqueness.

Venice is divided into six districts (sestiere), each with its own attractions. In the north, Cannaregio is home to the Palazzo Labia, the Venetian Ghetto, and the Isola di San Michele. San Polo, the smallest and oldest district, houses the famous Rialto Bridge, San Giacomo di Rialto, and Campo San Polo. In the northwest, Santa Croce features the Tronchetto and main port, as well as attractions like the Fondaco dei Turchi and Church of San Giacomo dell’Orio.

The central district of San Marco is where many of Venice’s most famous sites are located, including Saint Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace. Dorsoduro in the south boasts attractions like the Peggy Guggenheim Collection and San Trovaso church.

Venice also hosts several carnivals and festivals throughout the year. Redentore, held every third Saturday in July, celebrates the end of the Plague with fireworks. The famous Carnival of Venice takes place every February and March, with locals and tourists donning historical costumes and masks. The annual Venice International Film Festival, founded in 1932, attracts international film celebrities to the island of Lido every late August or early September.

In short, Venice is a city that never ceases to amaze and delight visitors. From its masks and shops to its food and gondolas, there’s always something new to discover.