Venice is one of the most fascinating cities in the world — a unique place where history, art, and culture intertwine in every detail. Just a few kilometers from the Riviera del Brenta, the city enchants visitors with its romantic canals, elegant bridges, and timeless architecture. It’s the perfect destination both for those with only a few hours to spare and for travelers who wish to slowly uncover its hidden corners, away from the usual tourist paths.

Let's begin this section by saying that, as the name suggests, there are six sestieri (districts) in Venice: sestieri = six. Some mistakenly believe that Giudecca is a separate sestiere, but in reality this large island is part of the Dorsoduro sestiere.

Curiosity:
They say that the ornament on a gondola’s prow, the ferro da gondola, is a compact representation of the city. The six sestieri are symbolically represented by the six prongs that point forward and the island of Giudecca by the one pointing aft.
The ‘S’ shape resembles the curves of the Grand Canal, and the little arch over the topmost prong symbolises the Rialto Bridge. The broadly curved top signifies the Doge’s Cap, the headdress that was only worn by Venice’s ‘duke’ or chief magistrate, the Doge.

Even if it is only a legend, it’s nice to think that it could be true. It certainly makes the image of the gondola even more interesting and mysterious. What’s more, it certainly makes it easier to remember the names of Venice’s sestieri!

SYBILVILLA SUGGEST YOU THIS ITINERARY WALK BY WALK

Before your visit, it’s worth remembering that Venice applies an entrance fee for visitors — a contribution that helps preserve and protect its extraordinary heritage.

Things to Do in Venice, Italy: Top Attractions

• St. Mark's Basilica

  This famous cathedral has so many details, from golden domes with paintings on the inside to beautiful decorations and statues of animals on the outside. Every visit you will see something different in and around the church. Take the time to observe the mosaic well. More info about how to visit the number 1 thing to do in Venice, the 'Basilica di San Marco'.

• Sightseeing at St. Mark's Square

On the square are the Museo Correr, the Archaeological Museum, Torre dell'Orologio and the Basilica di San Marco and the adjacent Doge's Palace. 

• Must see: Doge's Palace

The Doge's Palace – also called Palazzo Ducale – was home to the Doge, the leader of the republic that Venice used to be. This palace in Gothic-style used to house political institutions. Now the Doge's Palace is a museum, where you can visit the rooms of the Doge. From the Doge's Palace a bridge crosses the canal: the Ponte dei Sospiri ('Bridge of Sighs'). This bridge was used by convicts who had heard their sentences to enter the prison on the other side of the canal.

• Canal Grande & Rialto Bridge

The Grand Canal – or Canal Grande – flows through the 6 districts of Venice. Many smaller canals eventually lead to this Grand Canal. This canal is beautiful to see from the shore, but a boat trip is even better to experience the Venice landmarks and sights from the water. You must have done this at least once in your life. About halfway along the Grand Canal is the famous Ponte di Rialto (Rialto Bridge). This covered pedestrian bridge has many shops where you can buy your souvenirs.

• Visit Teatro la Fenice

  The velvet armchairs, the richly decorated balconies, the lighting and the amazing ceiling will make a visit to this theater even without a performance special. However, in the Feniks theater, various kinds of performances take place, such as Venetian opera and ballet, as well as concerts. If you wish, you can book a tour in La Fenice (due to theatre activities it's not every day possible to visit the opera theatre, so better first check your date here for the availability of tours) or spend an evening in Teatro La Fenice and also gaze at all the colors and paintings during the intermission.

  •  Islands by boat: Murano, Burano & Torcello

    Several islands that you can visit with a sightseeing tour. Murano is the closest to Venice and is best known for its glass art and related museums or shops. Burano is a little further. Here you cannot ignore the street with colored houses. Torcello is the furthest away of these three islands. On this island is the Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta and you have a beautiful view over the lagoon. This Murano, Burano & Torcello island tour is an activity that should not be missed during your visit to Venice.

  • Peggy Guggenheim Collection

    The building looks sober because of a single floor, but it also makes an impression. The modern collection of paintings and the garden with sculptures behind the museum are worth visiting. You will find mainly European and American works of art. There is also a certain tranquility in this museum, which is sometimes a welcome surprise in a busy city like Venice. Please note: in high season it is always recommended to book tickets for a time slot.

• Cannaregio district & Campo del Ghetto

  In addition to the many islands that form the municipality of Venice, the city is divided into six main districts. Cannaregio is the northernmost of these and is well known for its historic Jewish Quarter, home to ancient synagogues and the Jewish Museum. Here you’ll also find kosher restaurants and traditional Jewish shops that reflect the area’s rich cultural heritage.

  The Cannaregio district is less crowded than other parts of Venice, offering a more authentic local atmosphere. Highlights include the beautiful churches of Madonna dell'Orto and Santa Maria Assunta detta I Gesuiti, as well as the elegant Ca’ d’Oro palace on the Grand Canal. For those wishing to explore its history in depth, a popular option is the Guided Tour of the Jewish Ghetto with Synagogue Visit.

   

•  Highlight: Bridge of Sighs

After several expansions of the Doge’s Palace, the iconic Ponte dei Sospiri — or Bridge of Sighs — was constructed in the 17th century. The bridge was designed to connect the historic Doge’s Palace with the new prison located across the canal. Its poetic name comes from the sighs of prisoners who, as tradition tells, took one final glimpse of Venice before being led to their cells. Today, the Bridge of Sighs stands as one of the most photographed and beloved landmarks in Venice, Italy.

• Dorsoduro district

As you stroll through the district, you’ll encounter many highlights, including the Galleria dell’Accademia, the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, and the Punta della Dogana. To the east, Dorsoduro borders the Grand Canal, offering beautiful waterside views. The area is also home to several remarkable churches, such as Santa Maria del Rosario and San Sebastiano. For more inspiration and ideas on what to see and do, explore our full guide to Dorsoduro.

• Things to do: Discover Venice by gondola

  There are several transport options on the water, but the gondola is the most authentic way. Choose a good time so that your route is not too busy. Agree on a price for the destination and complete your gondola ride with something extra, such as classical music, a serenade or a special evening trip. Remember to bring a jacket for the gondola in the evening, because even in summer it can get chilly on the water.

  • Venice offers several “stazi” (starting points) where you can board a gondola. The best known are located near the main landmarks such as Canal Grande, San Marco and Rialto, but there are also more hidden places that allow you to discover the less touristy Venice.

• San Tomà: Located in the sestiere of Dorsoduro, away from the main tourist flows, it offers a more intimate atmosphere.

• Saint Sofia: In the area of Cannaregio, this is a perfect starting point if you want to explore the small alleys and hidden canals.

• Jewish ghetto: A quiet area with a particular charm, perfect for a gondola that takes you away from the crowds.

• Trinity: Located in the San Polo area, it is ideal for those looking for a more local and less touristy experience.

• Campo San Barnaba: In Dorsoduro, this pier allows you to get in touch with the authenticity of Venice, away from the main tourist streets.

   

Tip: When you buy the popular Venice Pass, in addition to entry to the two top attractions (Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Basilica), a gondola ride is also included!

 Scuola Grande di San Rocco

The Scuola Grande di San Rocco is an impressive 16th-century museum that displays works of art by Tintoretto, among others. In the former 'brotherhood' you will mainly find works from the Renaissance period. It is a small museum and because of the period on display here, the museum can be experienced as dark. Scenes on ceilings and walls are painted with dark colors, but very impressive in terms of the story they portray.

• Island 'San Giorgio Maggiore'

On the islet, opposite of Saint Mark's Square, you will find is a church called Chiesa di San Giorgio Maggiore. This church with a white facade offers beautiful views of Venice from the tower. There are also various works of art on display in the church and there is a sailing club on the island. The island does not receive many visitors.

• Scala Contarini del Bovolo

  • Dating back to the 15th century, this beautifully restored palace is famous for its unique architectural design. The building features an external spiral staircase that gracefully winds upward, connecting a series of elegant balconies. The name “bovolo” means “snail” in Venetian, inspired by the staircase’s shell-like shape. Climb to the top for a lovely panoramic view over the rooftops of Venice — a hidden gem tucked away in the heart of the city.

• Traveling opera in Palazzo Barbarigo Minotti

  Opera performances are held in this former palace. The building looks rustic from the outside, but once inside, the various characteristic spaces are part of the opera that is being performed. This special experience is therefore strongly influenced by the history and unique design of the palace. If you want to experience a special evening or have always wanted to attend an opera, you have come to the right place (more about the traveling opera in Venice). This unique event has very limited seats, so always check the availability of tickets in advance.

•  Book store 'Libreria Acqua Alta'

  You won’t find another bookshop quite like this one. Inside, Libreria Acqua Alta is a charming maze of overflowing book piles stacked in every corner. Because Venice often experiences flooding during winter, many of the books are cleverly stored in boats, bathtubs, and even gondolas to keep them dry. As you wander through the shop, you’ll also meet its most beloved residents — the friendly cats lounging on the books or napping by the cash register.

• Galleria dell'Accademia and more museums

  Beyond the famous museums that top most visitors’ lists — such as the renowned Galleria dell’Accademia, home to Venetian art from the 13th to 18th centuries — Venice also offers several lesser-known gems worth exploring. Discover the Palazzo Mocenigo, which highlights the history of fashion and perfume, or visit the Museo Storico Navale to learn about the city’s maritime heritage. At the Museo della Musica, you’ll be amazed by the extensive collection of beautifully crafted string instruments. Find more inspiring places to explore in our guide to Venice museums.

• San Zanipolo and more Venetian churches

  If you love exploring historic churches, be sure to visit the magnificent Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute, the impressive Santi Giovanni e Paolo (San Zanipolo) with its many Doges’ tombs, and the fascinating San Zaccaria with its partially flooded crypt. Every church in Venice tells its own story through unique architecture and remarkable works of art. Discover more hidden treasures in our guide to Venetian Churches.

• Places to visit Beach of 'Lido di Venezia'

  • The elongated island is ideal for relaxed activities, such as cycling or take a walk. A day at the beach is also possible on Lido. In the north you have the Faro di San Nicolò as a point of interest. As a golf lover you can also go to the south of the island. You can also walk the Diga Faro Alberoni here

• Mercati di Rialto

  • Located along the Grand Canal, the Mercati di Rialto is a vibrant market where you’ll find everything from fresh fruits, vegetables, and spices to fish and meat. The stalls are beautifully arranged, inviting you to browse and soak up the lively atmosphere. Even if you’re not shopping, it’s a wonderful place to experience the authentic rhythm of Venetian life as locals choose ingredients for their midday meals or leisurely evening dinners.

• Tip: Are you a food lover? Join this street food tour to discover the flavors of Venice — the tour also includes a visit to the famous Rialto Market.

   

• Carnival, thé activity of Venice city

The famous Carnevale di Venezia is celebrated every year and is world-renowned for its stunning, elaborately decorated masks. Historically, Venetians also wore these masks outside of carnival season to move around the city anonymously. Today, they are a symbol of the celebration, with an international jury of fashion designers selecting the most beautiful mask each year.

If you’re visiting outside carnival season, you can still experience the tradition by joining a carnival mask workshop or taking part in a dress-up experience complete with a photo shoot in traditional Venetian costumes.

The islands of the lagoon: Venetian gems

Beyond the city itself, the surrounding islands offer incredible diversity and character:

• Murano: Famous worldwide for its glass-blowing workshops and creative artisans.

• Burano: Known for its colorful houses and centuries-old lace-making tradition.

• Torcello: Peaceful and historical, home to the Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta and ancient Byzantine mosaics.

• San Michele: The island-cemetery, serene and reflective.

• Lido di Venezia: A stylish escape with beaches and the renowned Venice Film Festival.

• Pellestrina: A quiet, fishing island between the lagoon and the sea.

• Giudecca: Offering stunning panoramic views of Venice and filled with art and history.

• Chorus Pass: visit the minor churches of the Serenissima

One of the best ways to explore the religious art of Venice is through Chorus Pass.

This tourist card, at a cost of € 14.00 (updated price 2025), offers admission to 18 smaller churches in the city, allowing you to explore less crowded places of worship, but just as rich in history and art. Two examples are the beautiful San Sebastiano, decorated by Tintoretto, or Santa Maria del Giglio, one of the most fascinating in the city.

The Chorus Pass is a unique opportunity to get in touch with the most authentic side of Venice, away from the big tourist flows. With the introduction of the entrance fee to Venice in 2023, the Chorus Pass is also a way to save money while exploring the artistic wonders of the Serenissima.