Top 10 Things to Do in Venice: Must Sees & Online Tickets

1. Saint Mark’s Square & Saint Mark's Basilica

Piazza San Marco pulsates with life. Imagine a vast piazza teeming with a vibrant tapestry of people – locals and visitors from around the world – all drawn to the magic of this historic space. Fluttering pigeons between their feet, adding to the lively atmosphere. This grand square, conceived in the 9th century, is a testament to Venetian ingenuity and grandeur. Surrounded by architectural marvels, Piazza San Marco is an open-air museum where history and art intertwine.

The iconic Basilica di San Marco dominates the square with its dazzling display of Byzantine mosaics and shimmering golden domes. Intricate mosaics depicting biblical scenes and saints adorn the facade, showcasing the craftsmanship of Venetian artisans. Inside, the vast interior glows with golden light through stained-glass windows, illuminating the breathtaking artistry.

Other Highlights on Saint Mark’s Square:

• Saint Mark’s Campanile: The Campanile di San Marco, a soaring bell tower across the piazza, stands nearly 323 feet tall with arched windows on each level. Climb to the top for breathtaking panoramic views of the city, canals, and the Venetian Lagoon.
• The Clock Tower: The Clock Tower (Torre dell'Orologio) features intricate astrological symbols, with golden hands tracing the sun and moon. Its facade, adorned with sculptures and enameled figures, adds whimsy to this functional masterpiece.
• Colonna di San Todaro: Standing guard at the entrance to Piazza San Marco, the Colonna di San Todaro is topped by a statue of the city's former patron saint, Saint Theodore.
• The Cafés: After exploring the architectural wonders of Piazza San Marco, find a spot at one of the historic cafes lining the square. Sip an espresso and soak in the vibrant energy that surrounds you. People-watch as locals and tourists mingle, musicians serenade the crowds, and pigeons flutter by.  

Best-selling ticket options:

• Venice: St. Mark's Basilica Ticket, Audio Guide, Yard Gallery
• St. Mark’s Basilica: Small Group Guided Tour With Terrace access
• St. Mark's Campanile: Skip The Line Entrance
• The Venice Pass

2. Doge’s Palace and other Museums in Saint Mark’s Square

Beyond the captivating throngs and iconic landmarks, Piazza San Marco boasts a collection of architectural marvels that whisper tales of Venice's glorious past. These prestigious buildings lining the square are not merely facades; they are museums and libraries, each offering a portal into the city's rich history and artistic legacy.

Dominating its eastern edge is the Palazzo Ducale or Doge's Palace, a Gothic masterpiece that served as the seat of Venetian power for centuries. Today, it serves as a museum, hosting opulent chambers, priceless art, and hidden passageways revealing Venetian governance.

Other Museums in Saint Mark’s Square:

• Correr Museum: Across the square, the Museo Correr occupies the Napoleonic Wing, showcasing Neoclassical architecture and Venetian art from masters like Tintoretto and Titian. 
• National Archaeological Museum: Nearby, the Museo Archeologico Nazionale in the Procuradorie Vecchie offers Greek, Roman, and Egyptian artifacts, illuminating Venice's diverse cultural influences.
• National Library of St Mark: Facing the Doge's Palace is the Biblioteca Marciana, a Renaissance marvel housing a vast collection of manuscripts and early printed books. Designed by Sansovino, its grand halls reflect Venice's intellectual prowess.

Best-selling ticket options:

• Doge's Palace Fast Track Ticket
• Doge's Palace & St. Mark's Basilica with Terrace: Skip The Line + Guided Tour
• The Venice Pass

3. Waterbus Ride on the Grand Canal

For a quintessential Venetian experience, hop on a vaporetto – the city's iconic waterbus. Line 1, running between Piazzale Roma and Piazza San Marco, offers a magnificent sightseeing cruise along the Canale Grande, the city's main waterway. As you glide through this watery boulevard, flanked by magnificent palaces and historic churches, prepare to be dazzled by the architectural grandeur of Venice.

A procession of the most important bridges, palaces and churches traveling from west to east:

• Chiesa di San Simeon Piccolo: This charming 18th-century church with its distinctive dome and white facade is a hidden gem along the canal.
• Fondaco dei Turchi: Originally a trading post for Ottoman merchants, this 17th-century building is now a stunning example of Venetian-Ottoman architecture, housing the Natural History Museum.
• Ca' Pesaro: This ornate 17th-century palace, adorned with marble and sculptures, now houses the International Gallery of Modern Art.
• Ca d'Oro: Nicknamed “Golden House” for its lavish facade adorned with mosaics, this 15th-century palace is a masterpiece of Venetian Gothic architecture, housing the Galleria Franchetti.
• Ponte di Rialto: The iconic Rialto Bridge, a bustling hub of commerce for centuries, offers a picturesque scene and a chance to witness the lively atmosphere of the canal.
• Palazzo Grassi: This grand 18th-century palace now houses a prestigious exhibition space showcasing contemporary art.
• Ponte dell'Accademia: This neoclassical bridge, a popular spot for artists and photographers, offers stunning views of the Grand Canal.
• Basilica Santa Maria della Salute: This majestic 17th-century church, a landmark on the Venetian skyline, is a celebration of the city's deliverance from the plague.

Please note that Vaporetto Line 1 even extends to Lido di Venezia, a barrier island offering beaches and a relaxed atmosphere. 

Best-selling Ticket Options:

• Vaporetto Pass: Venice Public Transport Ticket (ACTV)
• Venice: Waterbus and Mainland Bus Pass

4. Gondola Ride on the Canal System

Picture yourself in a gondola, silently gliding through Venice's intricate canals. The water softly laps against the sleek black vessel as the gondolier's rhythmic strokes create a serene melody. This quintessential Venetian experience offers a romantic and unforgettable view of the city.

Navigate narrow waterways, away from bustling streets, where grand palaces with frescoes and intricate balconies evoke Venice's lavish history. Relax and absorb the unique atmosphere; your gondolier, adept in these watery paths for generations, may share Venetian tales.

A highlight is passing beneath the Bridge of Sighs (Ponte dei Sospiri), linking the Doge's Palace to prisons, named for prisoners' supposed sighs at their confinement. Choose a route where you can glide under this iconic landmark for historical intrigue.

Best-selling gondola ride tickets:

• Venice: Gondola Ride with Live Commentary
• Venice: Grand Canal Gondola Ride with App Commentary

5. Rialto Bridge

Towering over the Grand Canal, the Ponte di Rialto stands as a majestic landmark, a testament to Venetian ingenuity and architectural prowess. Take a stroll across this iconic bridge and immerse yourself in its rich history and ambiance. From here, take in breathtaking views of the bustling Grand Canal, complete with gondolas and waterbuses; a quintessential Venetian sight. 

Built in the late 16th century, this iconic bridge is not just a marvel of engineering but also a bustling center of commerce. Lined with shops offering Venetian crafts, it buzzes with the energy of a historic market. The single arched span, crafted entirely from stone in Renaissance style, is adorned with ornate arcades that add to its grandeur. 

Best-selling Ticket Options:

• Venice: Unusual Sights Walking Tour with Optional Gondola

6. Peggy Guggenheim Collection

Housed in the stunning Palazzo Venier dei Leoni on the Grand Canal, this museum was once the home of Peggy Guggenheim, a legendary American art collector. Step inside and delve into her remarkable collection of 20th-century European and North American art.

Marvel at iconic works by Picasso, Pollock, Kandinsky, and Giacometti, alongside captivating sculptures and a surprising selection of African and Oceanic art. Temporary exhibitions add another layer of intrigue, making the Peggy Guggenheim Collection a must-visit for anyone seeking a dose of artistic inspiration in Venice.

Best-selling Ticket Options:

• Tickets to Peggy Guggenheim Collection

7. Murano Island

For a unique and fascinating experience, venture beyond Venice's canals to Murano Island, world-renowned for its centuries-old tradition of glassblowing. Take Vaporetto line 4.1 or 4.2 and prepare to be dazzled by fiery furnaces, skilled artisans, and the colorful houses lining the island's streets.

Murano's history of glassblowing dates back to the 13th century. Over the centuries, Murano's artisans perfected their techniques, developing a reputation for creating stunning glassware renowned for its brilliance, color, and intricate designs.

Top Things to do on Murano Island:

• Witness the Art: Watch live glassblowing demonstrations as artisans transform molten glass into delicate shapes.
• Explore Museums & Galleries: Visit museums and galleries to admire antique and contemporary glass pieces and learn about their history.
• Shop for Treasures: Browse shops brimming with unique glassware, from jewelry to chandeliers.

Best-Selling Ticket Options:

• Venice: Murano and Burano Boat Tour 
• Boat Trip: Glimpse of Murano, Torcello & Burano Islands (Bestseller)
• Venice: Murano and Burano Boat Tour with Glass Factory Visit
• From Venice: Murano & Burano Guided Tour by Private Boat
• Murano: Glass Museum Entry Ticket
• Vaporetto Pass: Venice Public Transport Ticket (ACTV) (Recommended)

8. Lido di Venezia 

Do you remember that the route of vaporetto line 1 extends beyond the city center? If you’re seeking a dose of sunshine and sandy shores, it’ll take you to Lido di Venezia, a barrier island separating the Venetian Lagoon from the Adriatic Sea, boasting long stretches of sandy beaches perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxation.

Lido di Venezia offers a variety of beaches, some with changing facilities and sun lounger rentals, while others cater to a more natural experience. Spend a leisurely afternoon swimming in the refreshing Adriatic waters, building sandcastles with the family, or simply unwinding with a good book under a beach umbrella.

Best-selling Ticket Options:

• Vaporetto Pass: Venice Public Transport Ticket (ACTV) (Recommended)
• Venice: Waterbus and Mainland Bus Pass

9. Santa Maria della Salute Basilica

Rising from the waters of the Grand Canal in Venice's Dorsoduro district, the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute stands as a testament to faith and resilience. Commissioned in 1630 by the city itself as a votive offering for deliverance from the plague, this Baroque beauty took only 56 years to construct – a remarkable feat in its time.  

The imposing dome dominates the skyline, while the opulent interior stuns with intricate marblework, gilded statues, and stunning paintings by Venetian masters. Don't miss the main altar, a masterpiece of Baroque sculpture, and the revered icon of the Virgin Mary, believed to have played a role in the city's salvation.  

For breathtaking panoramic views, ascend the dome and witness the magic of Venice unfold – the sparkling canals, the iconic islands, and the vastness of the Venetian Lagoon.

Popular Ticket Options:

• Venice: Gondola Ride with Live Commentary
• Venice: Grand Canal Gondola Ride with App Commentary

10. Eat Some Cicchetti and Drink an Ombra in a Bacaro

Looking to experience the true essence of Venetian cuisine? Then internalize these three Italian words: cicchetti, ombra, and bacaro! Savor the tradition of enjoying cicchetti; small, flavorful snacks similar to tapas, featuring ingredients like fresh seafood, cured meats, and local cheeses. These bites are perfect for sampling a variety of Venetian flavors. 

An ombra, a small glass of local wine, perfectly complements these dishes. Bacari, the cozy, informal wine bars where cicchetti and ombra are served, offer an authentic experience of Venetian culture. Mingle with locals and enjoy the lively atmosphere as you indulge in these delightful treats, making for a memorable culinary adventure in Venice.

Best-selling Ticket Options:

• Venice: Street Food Tour with a Local Guide and Tastings
• Venice: Food Tasting Tour with Cicchetti Dishes and Wine (Recommended)

Embracing the Essence of “La Serenissima”

Armed with this list with the top 10 things to do in Venice, you're ready to create an unforgettable itinerary. Consider it a launchpad for your Venetian adventure!  

But remember, the city's true magic unfolds as you lose yourself in its labyrinthine canals, stumble upon hidden gems, and succumb to the captivating charm of la Serenissima (the Most Serene One).

Venice offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and romance, whether you wander historic districts, marvel at architectural wonders, or simply indulge in culinary delights. 

So, pack your walking shoes, embrace the spirit of discovery, and prepare to be enchanted by Venice. 

Buon viaggio! (Have a good trip!)