1. Visit St. Mark’s Basilica
This renowned landmark church is located on the famous piazza of the same name and is quite easily accessible from the popular Grand Canal. It was constructed in 1092 in honor of the evangelist Saint Mark whose remains were smuggled out of Alexandria in barrels of pork by two Venetians intent on burying them in Venice.
Even today this church is one of the most important religious structures in all of Northern Italy and the most popular remaining example of Italian Byzantine architecture. Don’t miss the artwork on the ornate domed ceiling.
2. Check Out St. Mark’s Square
St Mark’s Square is the perfect place to begin your tour of Venice. It is perhaps Venice’s most famous piazza. Situated on the grand canal, across from the island of San Giorgio Maggiore, St. Mark’s Square is lined by Doge’s Palace, St. Mark’s Basilica, and St. Mark’s Campanile.
In fact, the square is framed by several impressive buildings with ornate archways. Check out the restaurants for a hearty plate of spaghetti carbonara and some wine. It’s also the perfect place to buy a souvenir carnival mask or gondola hat.
3. Enjoy Canale Grande
The city has many canals that join the numerous islands that make up Venice. The monumental two-mile-long Grand Canal is Venice’s main “street.” Much like an actual river it snakes through the city in an “S” and crosses from one side to the other.
It is a favorite of photographers and couples can hire a gondolier for a romantic albeit expensive row on this famous canal. (Note: For a cheaper ride, hop aboard the vaporetto, or public water bus which will be discussed later in this list.)
4. See Ponte di Rialto
The Ponte di Rialto or Rialto Bridge is one of the few bridges that actually spans the previously-mentioned Grand Canal. It is both a tourist attraction and an important pedestrian thoroughfare connecting the San Polo and San Marco districts. Centuries ago, the bridge was the only way to cross the canal.
Once little more than a wooden bridge, it collapsed back in 1524. The iconic, present-day incarnation was built by Antonio da Ponte. It is now made entirely of marble and is said to be an engineering marvel.
5. Visit The Gallerie dell’Accademia
Situated across from the Ponte dell’Accademia on the Grand Canal, is the Gallerie dell’Accademia. Once an academy and convent, this building was converted into a museum by Napoléon in the mid to late 1700s. If you are into iconic masterpieces and Renaissance art, this is the place for you.
The Academy Gallery now holds a noteworthy collection of Venetian art ranging from the 14th to the 18th century. Works by such artists as Veronese, Tintoretto, Bellini Canaletto, and Titian. Its most famous piece is arguably Da Vinci’s Vitruvian Man by Da Vinci.
6. Kick Back At Venice Lido
If you need a break from a busy itinerary, this is the place to get away from the tourist crowds. This island separates the Adriatic Sea from Venice and includes a great stretch of beach to boot. The Lido features its own shops, hotels, and restaurants and is home to only about 20,000 people.
Unlike central Venice, this spot is significantly more calm, relaxed and laid back. No doubt it can provide you with a much-welcomed escape and a sharp contrast to the busy waterways around the famous Grand Canal.
