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Top Things to Do in Grand Canal and St. Mark’s Square (Venice) in 2025
Updated: 2025-06-15The vibrant atmosphere and endless things to do in Venice at the Grand Canal & St. Mark’s Square (Venice) can be thrilling for first-time visitors. How can you know where to start when these places are filled with beauty, art, and history? You want the real Venice without missing out or wasting time. Venice and its waterways have been UNESCO World Heritage Sites since 1987, recognizing their cultural, architectural, and environmental value.
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This travel guide removes the guesswork and brings clarity to your Venice itinerary, outlining must-see attractions, local experiences, and iconic views that define the floating city. Dive into this curated list to unlock the best of Venice in 2025.
Source: UNESCO
Things to do in Grand Canal, Venice
Palazzo Grassi
This neoclassical 18th-century palace, now part of the Pinault Collection, hosts bold contemporary art exhibitions. The juxtaposition of historic grandeur with avant-garde installations makes it a must-visit for art lovers and architecture buffs alike.
Palazzo Corner della Ca’ Grande
A stunning example of Renaissance architecture, this former residence of the Cornaro family impresses with its symmetrical facade, grand columns, and intricate interiors adorned with frescoes. It currently houses government offices but is often accessible during cultural events.
Ride a Vaporetto (Venice water taxi)
Line 1 is your best bet for a scenic tour of the Grand Canal on a budget. These water buses make frequent stops at top attractions and are ideal for DIY sightseeing. Ideal for families and budget-conscious travelers.
[Tip: Get a multi-day ACTV Vaporetto Pass for unlimited rides and savings.]
Walk Across the Rialto Bridge
The Rialto Bridge is one of Venice’s most iconic and treasured landmarks, known for its timeless beauty and historic charm. Built in 1591, this elegant stone bridge is the oldest across the Grand Canal.
Visit Gallerie dell’Accademia
This famous art museum, which is situated directly on the Grand Canal, is home to an invaluable collection of Venetian masterpieces by Titian, Veronese, Tintoretto, and other artists. If you're passionate about art, the Gallerie dell’Accademia is an unmissable stop. If you're passionate about art the historical walking experiences, then visit Venice.
Gondola Ride on the Grand Canal
A quintessential Venetian experience, gondola rides offer intimate views of the city's hidden corners and grand palazzos. Over 500 licensed gondolas operate daily on the Grand Canal, offering millions of rides each year.
Source: Comune di Venezia
Things to do in St. Mark’s Square, in Venice
Marvel at St. Mark’s Basilica
Venice’s crown jewel, St. Mark’s Basilica, is famous for its golden mosaics, Byzantine domes, and the shimmering Pala d’Oro altarpiece. The church holds the relics of Saint Mark and showcases over 800 years of artistic and religious heritage.
Palazzo Ducale(the Doge’s Palace)
Once the seat of political power in the Venetian Republic, this Gothic palace dazzles with opulent interiors, Renaissance artwork, and a sense of mystery. Cross the stunning and famous Bridge of Sighs, which connects Venice's luxury and fascinating history.
St. Mark's Bell Tower
Climb the iconic Campanile di San Marco for unforgettable views of Venice’s rooftops, shimmering canals, and the radiant lagoon beyond. This towering bell tower, once used as a lighthouse, offers postcard-worthy panoramas of the Grand Canal, Rialto Bridge, and rooftops of Venice.
Take a spill at a historic cafe.
Relax at Café Florian or Caffè Quadri, two of Venice’s oldest cafés nestled in St. Mark’s Square. With elegant interiors and rich cultural histories, these spots are perfect for soaking in the atmosphere while sipping a cappuccino or Venetian cocktail.
Escape the crowds at the Correr Museum
Tucked away at the opposite end of the Basilica, this often-overlooked museum provides rich insights into Venetian life, art, and Napoleon’s rule.Those looking to escape the crowds and learn deeper historical context.
Look out for the majestic horses.
Above the entrance to the basilica are four magnificent bronze horses, replicas of ancient Greek originals looted from Constantinople. The originals are housed inside the museum, and both sets are symbols of Venice's maritime strength.
Look out for the Lions
As the emblem of Venice, the winged lion appears throughout the city on flags, columns, statues, and buildings, representing power and spiritual strength. For the kids turn it into a game to see how many you can find!
Enjoy the Venetian nightlife
As evening sets in, St. Mark’s Square comes alive with live classical music, soft lighting, and cool evening breezes. Enjoy a moonlit gondola ride or sip wine beneath the stars.If you’re interested in furthering yourself, consider joining a mask-making and cultural workshop in Venice offered by Dream Tourism for a truly unique experience.
Venice itinerary planning
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Places |
describe |
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Grand Canal Discovery |
Ride Vaporetto Line 1, explore Palazzo Grassi & Ca’ Grande, cross Rialto. |
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Gondola Ride & Coffee |
Take a gondola ride, then relax at a canal-side caféChoose Dream Tourism’s guided tours for an expertly curated experience here. |
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St. Mark’s Square Exploration |
Visit the Basilica, Doge’s Palace, climb the Campanile, and relax at the Museo Correr. |
Are you trying to find well-planned day trips to Venice? Dream Tourism’s Italy tours offer multi-day packages including transport, guides, and cultural experiences.
Venice travel tips
- Plan Ahead: Book skip-the-line tickets for major sites like the Doge’s Palace and Basilica.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: Venice is a walking city with cobblestone paths and bridges.
- Get a Vaporetto Pass: ACTV passes save time and money for unlimited water travel.
- Venture Beyond: Explore hidden gems like Cannaregio for a quieter, local feel.
- Take It Slow: Savor the views, the food, and the experience at a relaxed pace.
In conclusion
Visiting the Grand Canal and St. Mark’s Square is more than sightseeing; it’s a poetic journey into Venice’s history, elegance, and charm. Whether you’re floating down the canal at dusk or gazing at golden mosaics by day, these two iconic destinations capture the spirit of La Serenissima. With Dream Tourism, you can craft a seamless, unforgettable Venetian adventure.
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