Venice is one of the most captivating destinations in the world, a floating city of 118 islands connected by 400 bridges, where time seems to stand still. With hotels in Venice offering spectacular views and historic palaces at every turn, it’s no surprise that millions visit every year.
However, beyond the tourist-filled things to do in Venice, lies a hidden, more intimate side of the city. If you’ve ever wondered, “what is there to do in Venice?”, prepare to be shocked! Here are 15 unforgettable experiences that will challenge everything you thought you knew about this incredible city.
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1. Linger in the Iconic Piazza San Marco
Piazza San Marco is undoubtedly the heart of Venice. This legendary square is home to some of the city’s most famous landmarks, including:
- Basilica di San Marco, a Byzantine architectural wonder adorned with breathtaking golden mosaics.
- The Campanile, Venice’s tallest structure, offering panoramic views of the lagoon.
- Museo Correr, where you can explore Venice’s rich history through fascinating exhibits.
For a truly Venetian experience, sip a coffee or an Aperol spritz at Quadri, one of the city’s famous 18th-century cafés. If you want a deeper understanding of Venetian culture, stop by Libreria La Toletta, a family-run bookshop filled with rare books on Venice.
2. Enter the Seat of Power at the Palazzo Ducale
For over 900 years, the Palazzo Ducale (Doge’s Palace) was the political center of Venice. Its pink and white Gothic façade overlooks the lagoon, but the real treasure lies inside:
- Lavish halls adorned with masterpieces by Titian, Tintoretto, and Veronese.
- The Bridge of Sighs, connecting the palace to the old prisons, where prisoners took their last glimpse of freedom.
Planning Tip: The lines can be overwhelming, especially before 11 AM. To avoid wasting time, book a fast-track ticket via Ticketsvenice.com for seamless entry.
3. Sail Down the Grand Canal
If you are wondering what is there to do in Venice then give a shot to Venice’s Grand Canal which is not just a waterway—it’s a living museum. Take the Vaporetto Line 1, and witness some of the most stunning palazzi ever built. Key landmarks to look for include:
- Ca’ d’Oro, a stunning marble-clad Gothic palace.
- Ca’ Foscari, a magnificent university building.
- Santa Maria della Salute, an octagonal church at the mouth of the Grand Canal.
Local Tip: For a truly magical experience, hop off at Salute and walk down to Punta della Dogana for the best sunset views over the lagoon.
4. Shop at the Rialto Market
If you’re searching for what to do in Venice beyond museums, head to the Rialto Market, where Venetians have been shopping for over 1000 years. Here, you’ll find:
- A lively fish market, showcasing the freshest seafood from the lagoon.
- Stalls overflowing with seasonal fruits and vegetables.
If you visit, make sure to buy something rather than just take photos—this market is still a vital part of daily Venetian life.
5. Immerse Yourself in World-Class Art at the Accademia
If you’re wondering what is there to do in Venice beyond its iconic landmarks, head to the Gallerie dell’Accademia in Dorsoduro. Situated at the end of the famous wooden Accademia Bridge, this museum is home to one of Italy’s most impressive collections of Venetian art. The journey through its galleries takes you from the early works of Paolo Veneziano and Carpaccio to the masterpieces of Mantegna, Bellini, Tintoretto, Titian, and Veronese—artists who shaped the city’s artistic legacy.
Detour: Looking for things to do in Venice beyond museums? Near the Accademia, you’ll find some of the city’s finest artisans. Visit Cornici Trevisanello, where the Trevisanello family has been crafting picture frames for decades—some even for Picasso.
For unique souvenirs, stop by Paolo Olbi, a bookbinder specializing in hand-printed Venetian and Byzantine-style stationery. Further along in Campiello dei Meloni, Il Pavone offers stunning marbled paper designs, transforming everyday items into art.
6. Savor Cicchetti in a Bacaro
If you’re looking for things to do in Venice that go beyond sightseeing, experiencing the city’s food culture is a must. Three essential words to remember: ombra, cicchetti, and bacaro. Ombra (meaning “shadow”) is the Venetian term for a small glass of wine, best enjoyed in a bacaro—a traditional Venetian wine bar. Pair it with cicchetti, the city’s version of tapas, featuring bite-sized delicacies perfect for a quick snack.
Bacari are scattered throughout Venice, making them a fantastic stop when exploring what is there to do in Venice. The modern versions of cicchetti often include baguette slices topped with cheese, seafood, or cured meats, but for a more authentic taste, try sarde in saor—sardines marinated with onions, pine nuts, and raisins—or a hard-boiled egg with anchovies. Spot a busy bacaro? That’s your cue to step in and indulge!
7. Give Local Traditions in Burano a Try!
Many visitors head to Burano just to snap photos of its vibrant, candy-colored houses, but there’s much more to discover on this charming island. If you’re wondering what to do in Venice beyond the main attractions, Burano offers a unique glimpse into a centuries-old fishing community. Located in the northern lagoon, a 45-minute vaporetto ride from Venice, the island has preserved its traditions despite the rise of mass tourism.
To fully appreciate Burano’s heritage, visit the Museo del Merletto, where you can learn about the island’s lace-making tradition, a craft passed down through generations. Instead of just taking photos and leaving, practice sustainable tourism by supporting local artisans and enjoying a meal at a family-run restaurant.
Local Tip: Have lunch at Trattoria al Gatto Nero, a beloved spot where you can try risotto di gò, a traditional goby fish risotto. Adding this stop to your itinerary is one of the most authentic things to do in Venice.
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8. Discover Jewish History in the Ghetto
The term “ghetto” originated in Venice, derived from the word “getto”, meaning foundry—a reference to the area’s industrial past. Established in 1516, the Venetian Ghetto was one of the first of its kind, where the Jewish community was confined and locked in at night. Over the centuries, the area expanded, and residents built Venice’s first “skyscrapers,” reaching up to eight stories high to accommodate the growing population.
Despite difficult conditions, the Jewish community flourished, building five stunning synagogues, some of which rival Venice’s grand churches in beauty. If you’re searching for what is there to do in Venice that offers deep historical insight, a guided tour of the Ghetto is a must. These tours provide exclusive access to synagogues, such as the Scola Levantina, which features rich red interiors and intricate wooden carvings.
To better understand this hidden gem, visit the Jewish Museum, which showcases the history and culture of Venice’s Jewish population. Exploring this neighborhood is one of the most meaningful things to do in Venice, offering a different perspective on the city’s past.
9. Discover Tintoretto’s Masterpieces at Scuola Grande di San Rocco
For many, Tintoretto is Venice’s greatest artist, and his finest works adorn the Scuola Grande di San Rocco. If you’re wondering what to do in Venice beyond the usual attractions, this grand confraternity is a must-visit. Built to serve as a charitable institution, it now houses more than 60 awe-inspiring paintings across two floors, including a breathtaking ceiling fresco. These artworks were painted to commemorate the end of the 1576 plague, which devastated the city.
Often referred to as Venice’s Sistine Chapel, the Scuola Grande is an artistic gem. Don’t forget to visit the nearby San Rocco Church, which features additional works by Tintoretto.
10. Step Into the Past at the Querini Stampalia Museum
For those seeking what is there to do in Venice beyond the crowds, the Fondazione Querini Stampalia offers a mix of art, history, and modern design. This 16th-century palazzo is home to a museum, library, and contemporary art space, featuring works by Palma il Vecchio, Canaletto, and Bellini. One of the highlights is Bellini’s Presentation at the Temple, considered one of Venice’s finest masterpieces.
Architect Carlo Scarpa redesigned part of the museum, creating a stunning modernist wing and garden that beautifully contrasts with the Renaissance interiors. Just outside, visit the Church of Santa Maria Formosa, one of the city’s few remaining Renaissance structures, making it a unique addition to your list of things to do in Venice.
11. Marvel at the Grand Canal Views from Ca’ d’Oro
The Ca’ d’Oro, or Golden House, is one of Venice’s most stunning Gothic palaces, and it offers one of the best views of the Grand Canal. Purchased in 1894 by Baron Giorgio Franchetti, this architectural gem was painstakingly restored to its former glory. Inside, the Galleria Franchetti showcases Venetian paintings and sculptures, while the balcony offers picture-perfect views of the Rialto Market and bustling Grand Canal.
If you’re exploring what to do in Venice, consider taking a traghetto (gondola-style ferry) from Santa Sofia for a scenic arrival. Planning Tip: Some areas of Ca’ d’Oro are under restoration, but the gallery remains open, offering visitors a glimpse into its grand history.
12. Explore Venice’s Most Beautiful Churches with a Chorus Pass
Venice is home to countless stunning churches, many of which contain masterpieces by Titian, Veronese, and Tintoretto. Purchase a Chorus Pass for just €14, granting entry to 18 historic churches throughout the city.
Some standout churches include Santa Maria dei Miracoli, a marble-clad Renaissance jewel, and San Sebastiano, which is almost entirely decorated with Veronese frescoes. These churches provide a fascinating insight into Venetian art and architecture, making them one of the top things to do in Venice for history lovers. Planning Tip: Check the pass map for church locations and opening hours to make the most of your visit.
13. Witness the Magic of Murano’s Glass-Making Traditions
A short 10-minute vaporetto ride from Venice, Murano is world-famous for its glass-making industry, a tradition that dates back centuries. Start your visit at the Museo del Vetro (Glass Museum) to learn about the island’s history, including how Venetian artisans refined glass-making techniques inspired by Middle Eastern craftsmen. For a unique experience, visit Lucevetro or Wave Murano Glass, where you can watch master glassblowers at work or even take a lesson in crafting your own piece.
Detour: Don’t miss the Basilica dei Santi Maria e Donato, famous for its 12th-century mosaic floors.
14. Travel Back in Time on the Island of Torcello
Visit Torcello, the island where Venice began. Once a bustling medieval settlement, today it is home to just a handful of residents, offering a peaceful retreat from the city.
The highlight of Torcello is the Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta, one of the oldest churches in the lagoon, dating back to the 7th century. Inside, you’ll find stunning Byzantine mosaics from the 11th century, depicting the Last Judgment in incredible detail.
Planning Tip: Visit Torcello before Burano to avoid the midday crowds returning to Venice. This tranquil island is one of the most underrated things to do in Venice for history lovers.
15. Special Twist at Ospi Venice
For an unexpected take on Venetian dining, visit Ospi Venice in Venice, California—a modern Italian eatery inspired by classic Brooklyn red sauce joints. Created by Top Chef alumnus Jackson Kalb, this restaurant blends authentic Italian flavors with a contemporary Californian twist.
📍 Location: 2025 Pacific Ave, Venice, CA 90291
🌟 What to Try:
- House-made pastas & wood-fired pizzas
- Craft cocktails & an extensive wine list
- Brunch, lunch, and dinner options
Ospi is not just a restaurant; it’s a dining experience. Whether you’re enjoying a casual meal or hosting a private event, it offers a taste of southern Italy in Southern California.
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Final Thoughts
Venice is far more than just gondolas and St. Mark’s Square. Whether you’re discovering hidden art gems, wandering through the Venetian Ghetto, or savoring cicchetti in a bacaro, these unique things to do in Venice will give you a deeper, more meaningful experience.
If you’re still asking “what is there to do in Venice?”, the answer lies in exploring beyond the usual sights. From Murano’s glass workshops to Burano’s lace-makers and Torcello’s ancient history, the city’s true beauty is found in its quieter corners.
Make your Venice trip unforgettable by going beyond the tourist hotspots and experiencing the city’s rich history, art, and local traditions. 🚤✨
