22 Hidden things to do in Venice 2025

Excited to begin your adventure, but wondering where to start? Venice is a dream come true. Every turn reveals a magical moment you’ll never forget. This guide reveals both well-known sites and hidden treasures. Venice isn’t just a destination, it’s a world of wonder waiting to be explored. Let’s dive in and discover what makes it one of the most captivating places on Earth.

What to see in Venice-Venice bucket list

St. Mark’s Basilica 

In the vibrant heart of St. Mark’s Square, St. Mark’s Basilica shines as a majestic wonder, overflowing with golden mosaics, awe-inspiring art, and soul-stirring history. Admire the breathtaking Pala d'Oro, Byzantine domes, and golden mosaics. For a panoramic view of the square, climb to the terrace.

Though the entrance is free, a guided tour offers a deeper insight into its history and art. Discover the entire allure of seeing the Grand Canal and the St. Mark's Square neighborhood for the ideal introduction to Venice's most famous sites.

Doge’s Palace

Once the seat of Venice's rulers, the Doge’s Palace showcases Venetian Gothic architecture at its finest. The palace features masterpieces by Tintoretto and Veronese. Visit its lavish rooms, cross the famous Bridge of Sighs, and uncover its rich history. It's an essential part of Venice’s cultural heritage.

Gondola Ride

A gondola ride is a quintessential Venetian experience. Glide through the serene canals, passing under historic bridges and past elegant palaces. Evening rides, when the city lights shimmer on the water, create a magical atmosphere. Gondoliers often sing or share tales, enhancing the romance of the experience.

The Grand Canal

The Grand Canal, Venice’s stunning main waterway, gracefully winds through the city, offering breathtaking views of its iconic historic buildings. Take a Vaporetto (water bus) or private boat ride for stunning views of the city's architecture. Cross the Rialto Bridge, another Venice icon, for a memorable perspective of the canal.

The Bridge of Sighs

A wonder of Venetian history and tradition, the famous Bridge of Sighs connects the old prison and the Doge's Palace. It is said that prisoners, gazing through its stone-barred windows, let out a sigh at their final glimpse of the breathtaking beauty of Venice. Built in the 17th century, the bridge is a stunning yet tragic sight.

Piazza San Marco

Piazza San Marco, or St. Mark's Square, is the vibrant and enchanting heart of Venice, brimming with history and charm. Surrounded by historic buildings like St. Mark’s Basilica and the Campanile, this lively square is ideal for experiencing the city’s atmosphere.

Enjoy the music, architecture, and cafés that line the square. Venice and its lagoon were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987 for their cultural and architectural significance.

Source: UNESCO.org

The Rialto Bridge

Linking the districts of San Marco and San Polo, the Rialto Bridge is one of the most iconic structures in Venice. Built in the 16th century, it offers sweeping views of the Grand Canal and is home to a bustling market and numerous shops.

Venice Biennale

Modern architecture, art, film, and performance from around the globe are all on display at the renowned Venice Biennale. It turns Venice into a vibrant, citywide exhibition space, spread across the Giardini and Arsenale. It's a must-see if you're in town during the Biennale to get a contemporary look at Venice's creative spirit.

Jewish Ghetto

The historic Jewish Ghetto in Venice, established in 1516, stands as one of the oldest and most culturally rich Jewish communities in Europe, offering a deep connection to the city’s vibrant heritage. 

Explore its narrow streets, visit the Jewish Museum and synagogues, and learn about the rich cultural history of Venice’s Jewish population. The area also boasts several kosher restaurants and stores.

Gallerie dell’Accademia

Home to a vast collection of Venetian Renaissance art, the Gallerie dell’Accademia is a must for art lovers. Located in the Dorsoduro district, the gallery showcases works by Titian, Veronese, and Tintoretto, providing a deep dive into Venice’s artistic heritage.

Opera at La Fenice Opera House

La Fenice, one of Venice's most celebrated opera houses, is renowned for its stunning architecture and musical history. Experience a performance in this grand setting, which has hosted operas by Rossini, Verdi, and others. The acoustics and atmosphere make for an unforgettable cultural experience.

Venice Street Food Your

Venice is known for its exceptional street food, which combines local flavors and history. Indulge in the delightful flavors of cicchetti (small Venetian tapas) at a charming bàcaro, savoring delicious dishes like creamy baccalà mantecato (salt cod spread), crispy mozzarella in carrozza (fried mozzarella sandwich), and Sweet and sour sardines with a delicious sarde in saor. Don’t miss the sweet frittella, especially during Carnival.

Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo 

This unique palace, located near Campo Manin, is home to the remarkable Scala Contarini del Bovolo, a spiral staircase. Built in the 15th century, this architectural gem offers breathtaking views of the city from its top.

Venice Photo Walk

A photo walk through Venice is one of the best ways to connect with the city’s charm. I found early mornings around the canals near the Jewish Ghetto especially peaceful, with golden light reflecting off the water. For unforgettable, classic shots, make your way to the stunning St. Mark’s Basilica, a true gem of Venice. 

Burano

The island of Burano in the Venetian Lagoon is well-known for its vivid, multicolored structures. Stroll through its charming streets, visit the lace-making workshops, and enjoy fresh seafood at local eateries. Another landmark is the Church of San Martino, which has a leaning bell tower.

Fondazione Querini Stampalia

The Fondazione Querini Stampalia, beautifully housed in a historic palazzo, is a captivating museum, library, and cultural research center, offering a rich experience of Venice’s artistic heritage. Its library is among the most beautiful in Venice, and it features pieces by Giambattista Tiepolo and Giovanni Bellini.

Peggy Guggenheim Collection

Located on the Grand Canal, the Peggy Guggenheim Collection is a renowned museum showcasing European and American art from the 20th century. The impressive collection showcases masterpieces by legendary artists like Picasso, Pollock, Dalí, and Kandinsky, offering a rich journey through modern art history.

Carnevale

The beautiful masks and costumes of the Venice Carnival are well-known. With events like the Water Parade and the Best Mask Contest, the carnival, held from February 14 to March 4, celebrates Venetian culture and tradition. Enroll in a Venice mask-making and cultural workshop to create your stunning Venetian mask and get a personal look at this lively tradition.

Scuola Grande di San Rocco

Scuola Grande di San Rocco is a hidden gem in the San Polo district, famed for its breathtaking Tintoretto masterpieces covering the walls and ceilings. I recommend visiting early to enjoy the space without crowds and bringing an audio guide to fully appreciate the stories behind each painting.

Murano

Murano, renowned for its rich glass-making traditions, is a vibrant island brimming with exquisite glass factories, fascinating museums, and stunning galleries that showcase the island’s artistic legacy. The island also boasts beautiful canals, colorful buildings, and the Basilica di Santa Maria e San Donato, with its exquisite mosaics.

Torcello

Torcello, a serene and enchanting island in the Venetian Lagoon, was once a vibrant center of power in Venice, offering a peaceful retreat steeped in history. Visit the Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta, with its stunning mosaics, and the Ponte del Diavolo, a bridge steeped in legend.

Museo del Vetro

Located in Murano, the Museo del Vetro (Glass Museum) highlights the island’s long history of glassmaking. The museum displays everything from ancient Roman glass to modern art pieces, illustrating Murano’s significant contribution to the craft.

Venice itinerary 2025- Venice itinerary 3 daysVenice experiences

For a broader Italian adventure, consider combining your trip with a remarkable journey like the summer holiday tour offered by Dream Tourism.

Venice sightseeing tips

• Early Visits: Arrive early to enjoy the serene beauty of major attractions like the Rialto Bridge and St. Mark's Basilica in quiet seclusion before the tourists gather.
• Vaporetto Pass: Purchase a multi-day Vaporetto pass for convenient travel along the canals and to explore the islands.
• Local Cuisine: Enjoy the tasty sarde in saor (marinated sardines), a true taste of Venice, and the creamy risotto al nero di seppia (squid ink risotto), among other delectable Venetian specialties.
• Respect Local Traditions: To respect Venice's rich local customs and cultural legacy, take advantage of the chance to dress modestly when visiting places of worship such as St. Mark's Basilica.
• Stay Hydrated: Take advantage of Venice’s charming public fountains to effortlessly refill your water bottle as you wander through this enchanting city.

For romantic travelers, Valentine's Day in Venice offers a unique and unforgettable experience celebrating love and scenic beauty.

Conclusion

Venice is a stunning city with a fascinating past and a vibrant culture. From iconic landmarks like the stunning Rialto Bridge and awe-inspiring St. Mark's Basilica to hidden gems like the charming Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo, Venice offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler. Whether you're taking a gondola ride along the canals or sampling Venetian street food, your time in this magical city will be unforgettable.

Make memories with Dream Tourism in this classic city of canals and dreams by planning your 2025 trip to Venice.