Last Updated on October 10, 2023 by Rick Spiegel
To be ignorant of history is to forever be a child, wise words by an even wiser man. That is to say, exploring the story of our world is essential for our species to learn & grow. And what better place to learn about the past than Venice, Italy.
Alternatively, maybe you’re not looking for the past but instead focusing on your future with your partner. Even then, Venice might just be the place for you. After all, night rides on gondolas through the Grand Canal aren’t famous without reason.
So, let’s talk about the top 10 Venice attractions you must visit.
A Little About Venice
Also known as the City of Masks, Venice is a place of wonder & art. The city is a collection of 118 small islands, with a network of canals going through it. Also, most of the traffic inside the city is through the water.
So, in all of this, where should you focus your attention?
Top Venice Tourist Attractions
Venice has a lot to offer other than romantic night rides on gondolas. The City of Masks has a rich history
Saint Mark’s Basilica
Explore the historic cathedral of the catholic church, once the episcopal seat of Nicolò Saverio Gamboni. You can find the basilica at the east end of Saint Mark’s Square. The interior of the dome & the upper walls are covered with ground-gold mosaics, a marvelous representation of art.
The mosaics in themselves have been continuously reformed & replaced throughout history. Therefore, the modern representation is a mix of various cultures.
Address – P.za San Marco, 328, 30100 Venezia VE, Italy
Phone Number – (+39) (041) (270) (8311)
Piazza San Marco
Also known as Saint Mark’s Square, it’s Venice’s religious & political center. Interestingly, Piazza San Marco is the lowest point in all of Venice & is usually flooded during the Aqua Alta. So in case you want to experience true medieval art, this place is a must for you.
Also, it’s forbidden to consume food or drinks within the square. However, while admiring the mere majestic beauty of its Renaissance architecture, you won’t be thinking of food.
Address – P.za San Marco, 30100 Venezia VE, Italy
Grand Canal (Canale Grande)
The largest & most extensive canal network in Venice, the Grand Canal is perfect for a romantic gondola ride. The “S” shaped waterway snakes its way through the heart of Venice. In case you find yourself in Venice, this is one place you must visit.
Also, below are some interesting facts about the Canale Grande:
- Firstly, the buildings built alongside the canal are from the 13th century.
- Secondly, the Grand Canal provides passage to 60% of traffic in Venice.
- Thirdly, the Grand Canale was a major shipping route during the 10th century.
Rialto Bridge (Ponte di Rialto)
To begin with, the Rialto Bridge is the oldest & most prominent bridge across the Grand Canal. Also, it is a popular spot for sightseeing & photography, as it provides a magnificent view of Venice. Antonio da Ponte initially built the bridge to give access to the island of Rialto.
So, here are some fun facts about the Rialto Bridge:
- Firstly, the bridge has collapsed a total of three times throughout history.
- In addition, due to repetitive collapses, Antonio da Ponte constructed the bridge from marble in 1588.
- Also, the design of the bridge is similar to its predecessor.
Palazzo Ducale
The Palazzo Ducale served as the residence of the Doge of Venice up until the late 19th century. Also, it’s a magnificent example of Gothic architecture. However, in 1923, the Italian government converted it into a museum.
In short, what once represented the power of the Italian empire now serves as the symbol of its history.
Fun Facts:
- The Palazzo Ducale was where Doge Enrico Dandolo started the 4th crusade.
- Also, it houses one of the largest rooms in all of Europe.
Clock Tower (Torre dell’Orologio)
To begin with, the Clock Tower was originally constructed in the 15th century. However, it has been altered several times from then with time. On the top of the tower are two bronze statues of extraordinary artistic significance, known as moors.
The statues are that of an old man & a young boy; these strike the bell every hour. And serve as a symbol of the passage of time. Interestingly, the clock’s purpose was to inform travelers of suitable traveling periods according to the tides.
Address – P.za San Marco, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy
Phone Number – (39) (041) (4273) (0892)
Entry Fee – $10.22
Campanile
It was initially built as a lighthouse in 1153; however, it collapsed in 1902. So, its reconstruction started in the autumn of the year 1902. Also, in the Middle Ages, prisoners were hung & hoisted from this tower as a punishment.
However, nowadays, the tower is well-known for its view of Venice & the Adriatic Sea.
Address – P.za San Marco, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy
Phone Number – (39) (041) (270) (8311)
Santa Maria della Salute
Commonly known as Salute, it’s the most religiously significant building in Venice. It was contracted to commemorate the end of The Italian Plague that killed a large portion of the Veneto population. Also, it is the celebration site of “Festa Della Madonna Della Salute,” one of the most celebrated festivals in Venice.
Address – Dorsoduro, 1, 30123 Venezia VE, Italy
Phone Number – (39) (041) (274) (3928)
Entry Fee – Basilica (No Charge), Sacristy ($4.30 per adult)
Also read: Top 10 Outdoor Activities In Denver
Scuola Grande di San Rocco
Built between 1515 to 1560 as a meeting place for a charitable society. In addition, this building contains many of the masterpieces of the artist Tintoretto, like:
- The Glorification of St. Roch
- Christ before Pilate
- Ecce Homo
In case you’re an art enthusiast, this is one of the places that should be on your itinerary.
Address – San Polo, 3054, a, 30125 Venezia VE, Italy
Phone Number – (39) (041) (523) (4864)
Operating Hours – 09:30 AM to 05:30 PM
The Ca’ d’Oro or Palazzo Santa Sofia
Lastly, you must visit & see through your own eyes the marble filigree & Porta Della Carta by Bartolomeo Bon. It’s a perfect example of the excellence of Venetian Gothic architecture. In addition, the building is now a museum that you can explore from the inside. And realize how the wealthy Venetians lived during the 15th century.
In conclusion, Venice is the home to some of the greatest representations of art globally; it’s a world of its own. So, if you happen to travel to this magnificent city, consider yourself lucky. And, take in as much of it as you possibly can.
