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Venice, the enchanting “Floating City,” is a dream destination brimming with history, art, and romance. Things to do in Venice are countless from iconic canals to stunning architecture. Glide through the Grand Canal on a gondola, explore the magnificent St. Mark’s Basilica, or get lost in the charm of its narrow alleys. Art lovers can admire masterpieces at the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, while food enthusiasts can indulge in authentic Venetian cicchetti. Whether you’re discovering hidden gems or soaking in the city’s unique atmosphere, Venice promises unforgettable experiences at every turn.
10 Things To Do In Venice
Glide through the canals on a romantic gondola ride, savor traditional Venetian cuisine, and explore hidden alleyways. Here are the 10 things to do in Venice:
1. Take A Gondola Ride Through The Canals
Photo: Steven Lek / Wikimedia Commons
A visit to Venice is incomplete without a classic gondola ride. Gliding through the city’s intricate canal network, you’ll experience its beauty from a unique perspective. Gondoliers, often dressed in traditional striped shirts, navigate narrow waterways lined with historic buildings, offering a romantic and tranquil experience. While it can be pricey, sharing a gondola or opting for a shorter ride can make it more affordable. For an extra special touch, some gondoliers even serenade passengers. A gondola ride truly captures the essence of Venice’s charm and timeless appeal.
Location: Grand Canal, smaller canals in districts like San Polo, Dorsoduro, and Cannaregio
Ideal Time To Visit: Early morning or evening
2. Attend A Traditional Venetian Mask-Making Workshop
Photo: gnuckx / Wikimedia Commons
Venice is famous for its elaborate masks, especially those worn during the annual Carnevale. Attending a mask-making workshop allows you to create your handcrafted souvenirs while learning about the historical significance of these iconic accessories. Artisans guide you through the process of decorating masks with gold leaf, feathers, and paint, making for a fun and immersive cultural experience. Whether you design a simple mask or an extravagant one, this activity offers a creative way to engage with Venetian traditions and take home a piece of its artistry.
Location: Mask-making studios like Ca’ Macana and Tragicomica
Ideal Time To Visit: Afternoon sessions to allow time for customization and drying
3. Savor Authentic Venetian Cuisine
Photo: Monika Ďuríčková / Wikimedia Commons
Indulging in Venetian cuisine is a must for any visitor. From seafood delicacies like sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines) to Cicchetti (small tapas-style bites) served in traditional bàcari, the city’s culinary scene is a delight. Be sure to try risotto al nero di sepia, a squid ink risotto with a rich, savory flavor. Pair your meal with a glass of local Prosecco or Spritz, a popular Venetian aperitif. Exploring food markets and hidden trattorias will provide a true taste of Venice’s gastronomic heritage.
Location: Traditional restaurants and bàcari in districts like Cannaregio, Dorsoduro, and San Polo
Ideal Time To Visit: Lunch or dinner for the best selection of local dishes
4. Attend a Traditional Venetian Carnival
Photo: Abxbay / Wikimedia Commons
If you visit Venice in February, experiencing the famous Carnival is a must. This annual festival transforms the city into a magical spectacle of masked parades, lavish balls, and theatrical performances. Locals and tourists alike don stunning, handcrafted masks and elaborate costumes, bringing Venice’s historical grandeur to life. Street performances, music, and art displays create a vibrant atmosphere. Whether you participate in an extravagant masquerade ball or simply admire the festivities in St. Mark’s Square, the Carnival offers an immersive glimpse into Venetian traditions and artistry.
Location: Venice, Italy (main events take place in St. Mark’s Square and throughout the city)
Ideal Time To Visit: February
5. Explore The Local Markets
Photo: Tony Hisgett / Wikimedia Commons
Venice’s markets offer a vibrant glimpse into daily life, brimming with fresh produce, seafood, and artisanal products. The Rialto Market is particularly famous, with vendors selling everything from colorful vegetables to lagoon-caught fish. Strolling through the bustling stalls, you’ll find an array of Venetian specialties, perfect for a picnic or a cooking experience. The markets also offer high-quality olive oils, cheeses, and traditional pastries, making them a great place to sample local flavors and pick up unique souvenirs.
Location: Rialto Market and Mercato di Campo Santa Margherita
Ideal Time To Visit: Early morning 7 AM – 9 AM
6. Watch A Glassblowing Demonstration
Photo: Jordan J. Miller / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Venetian glass is world-renowned, and watching a live glassblowing demonstration is a fascinating experience. Skilled artisans showcase centuries-old techniques, transforming molten glass into delicate vases, intricate figurines, and elegant chandeliers. While Murano Island is the most famous for glassmaking, many workshops in central Venice offer demonstrations as well. You can even purchase handcrafted pieces directly from the artisans, ensuring an authentic and high-quality souvenir.
Location: Murano Island and select workshops in Venice
Ideal Time To Visit: Morning or early afternoon for live demonstrations
7. Enjoy A Classical Music Concert
Photo: Teddy Yang / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Venice has a rich musical history, and attending a classical music concert is a wonderful way to appreciate its cultural heritage. Many performances occur in historic churches and palaces, offering an intimate and atmospheric setting. Vivaldi, one of Venice’s most famous composers, is often featured in these concerts, with renditions of The Four Seasons being a popular choice. Whether you attend a performance by a professional ensemble or a small chamber orchestra, the experience transports you to Venice’s golden age of music.
Location: Historic venues like Scuola Grande di San Teodoro e Chiesa di San Vidal
Ideal Time To Visit: Evening concerts, typically starting around 7 PM – 8 PM
8. Explore Venetian Museums
Photo: Martin Falbisoner / Wikimedia Commons
Exploring Venetian museums offers a deep dive into the city’s rich history, art, and culture. The Doge’s Palace showcases opulent rooms, grand staircases, and secret passageways, reflecting Venice’s political power. The Peggy Guggenheim Collection houses modern art masterpieces, while the Gallerie dell’Accademia features Venetian Renaissance paintings. The Museo Correr provides insights into Venetian life, with exhibits of art, maps, and historical artifacts. For glass enthusiasts, the Murano Glass Museum displays intricate glassworks dating back centuries.
Ideal Time To Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds; weekdays are preferable
9. Experience A Venetian Sunset
Photo: Nan Palmero / Wikimedia Commons
Venice becomes even more enchanting at sunset when the sky casts hues of pink and orange over its canals and historic buildings. Watching the sunset over the lagoon from a waterfront promenade or a rooftop terrace is a breathtaking experience. The golden reflections in the water create a dreamlike atmosphere, perfect for a romantic evening or quiet contemplation. Whether you’re sipping a Spritz at a canal-side café or strolling along the Zattere promenade, Venice’s sunsets are a sight you won’t forget.
Location: Zattere promenade, St. Mark’s Square, or rooftop terraces like T Fondaco dei Tedeschi
Ideal Time To Visit: 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
10. Take Part In A Wine Tasting Experience
Photo: Chinh Le Duc / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Italy is known for its exceptional wines, and Venice offers plenty of opportunities for wine tasting. Visiting an enoteca (wine bar) allows you to sample regional varieties like Prosecco, Amarone, and Soave, paired with delicious Venetian appetizers. Knowledgeable sommeliers guide you through the tasting, explaining the origins and flavors of each wine. For an immersive experience, consider a guided wine tour that takes you to nearby vineyards in the Veneto region. Savoring fine Italian wine in a traditional setting is the perfect way to end your Venetian adventure.
Location: Enotecas like Cantina Do Mori, Vineria all’Amarone
Ideal Time To Visit: Late afternoon or early evening, between 4 PM – 7 PM
Venice is a city of timeless charm, offering unforgettable experiences for every traveler. Whether you’re gliding through its canals on a gondola, savoring Venetian cuisine, or witnessing the art of glassblowing, each moment feels magical. From hidden alleyways to lively markets and classical concerts, the city blends history, culture, and romance seamlessly. Book your trip with TripXL for a seamless travel experience, including guided tours, accommodations, and exclusive local experiences.
Cover Photo: Henrique Ferreira / Unsplash
