Venice is one of those locations that seems like a fantasy. Its winding canals, charming gondolas, beautiful buildings, and rich past make it no wonder that this floating city is on nearly every traveler's bucket list. Whether your stay is for a day, with family, seeking free activities, or a romantic trip, Venice offers something unique for you.
Best Value Tourism has compiled this final list of the top 10 best things to do in Venice, Italy to assist you get the most of your visit. Let's get going!
1. Glide Through the Canals on a Gondola RideExperiencing the city from the water makes every trip to Venice complete. One of the most romantic things to do in Venice, Italy is a gondola ride under old bridges and across the small canals.
To have a really memorable experience, ride a gondola at night or sunset when the city lights reflect stunningly on the sea. A gondola ride through less touristic places will provide a calm and magical trip if you wish to avoid crowds.
Best Places to Visit in Venice for Gondola Ride: Grand Canal, Bridge of Sighs, Rialto Bridge
2. Marvel at St. Mark’s Basilica and St. Mark’s SquareOne of the most renowned sites in Venice, St. Mark's Basilica boasts stunning Byzantine architecture, complex domes, and golden mosaics. Just outside, St. Mark's Square (Piazza San Marco) is a vibrant center with restaurants, historic structures, and street performers.
Climb the Campanile Tower for breathtaking panoramic views of Venice. As children and adults both will be awed by the beauty and history of the Piazza, this is also among the top activities in Venice, Italy with family.
📍 Top Attractions in Venice: St. Mark’s Basilica, St. Mark’s Square, Campanile Tower
3. Walk Across the Iconic Rialto BridgeOne of the most historic and photographed bridges in Venice, the Rialto Bridge Surrounded by local markets, souvenir stores, and eateries, it provides stunning views of the Grand Canal.
For those on a tight budget, this is among the top free activities in Venice, Italy. Walk over the bridge, check out the close by Rialto Market, and pick up some tasty Venetian street cuisine.
Best Places to Visit in Venice: Rialto Market, Grand Canal, Gondola Stations
4. Cruise the Grand Canal on a VaporettoRiding a vaporetto (water bus) is one of the greatest ways to view Venice on a budget. These inexpensive boats run around the Grand Canal, providing breathtaking views of historic palaces, bridges, and monuments.
Take a vaporetto trip at sunset or at night when the buildings illuminate along the water. Families will like this as children enjoy boat rides.
Top Attractions in Venice: Ca’ d’Oro, Peggy Guggenheim Collection, Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute
5. Explore the Colorful Island of BuranoTake a quick boat journey to Burano, renowned for its vibrant homes and traditional lace-making, for a sunny and happy getaway. A tranquil afternoon stroll, taking Instagram-worthy pictures, and savoring some of Venice's finest seafood all fit this island perfectly.
Burano is a wonderful family destination; children will enjoy the bright, fairytale-like streets, while adults will value the lovely environment and local artisanship.
Best Places to Visit in Venice: Burano’s Colorful Houses, Lace Museum, Local Seafood Restaurants
6. Visit the Historic Bridge of SighsConnecting the Doge's Palace to the medieval jail, the Bridge of Sighs is among Venice's most renowned sites. Legend has it that before being locked up, inmates would gaze one final time at Venice and sigh.
Couples usually go gondola rides under this bridge, which is among the most romantic spots in Venice. According to local custom, sunset kisses under the Bridge of Sighs guarantee everlasting love.
Top Attractions in Venice: Doge’s Palace, Prison Museum, Gondola Rides Under the Bridge
7. Experience Venice’s Nightlife in Cannaregio
If you’re looking for things to do in Venice, Italy at night, Cannaregio is the place to go. Authentic Venetian pubs, live music, and quaint waterfront eateries may be found in this area.
Enjoy a quiet nighttime walk along the canals and sample Cicchetti (Venetian tapas) while bouncing between bacari (Venetian wine bars) all evening.
Best Places to Visit in Venice at Night: Fondamenta della Misericordia, Bacari Wine Bars, Jewish Ghetto
8. Step Into History at the Doge’s PalaceHistory lovers and families should definitely visit the Doge's Palace (Palazzo Ducale). briefly home to Venice's kings, this magnificent Gothic palace boasts opulent halls, valuable art, and the haunting jail cells where Casanova was briefly confined.
Top Attractions in Venice: Doge’s Apartments, Golden Staircase, Secret Itineraries Tour
9. Watch the Sunset from San Giorgio Maggiore
One of the finest views of Venice is from the bell tower of San Giorgio Maggiore Island, which you can reach by boat. From the summit, you will have stunning views of the neighboring islands, the Grand Canal, and St. Mark's Square.
It’s especially beautiful at sunset, when the sky turns shades of pink and orange. This is also one of the best free things to do in Venice, Italy if you just enjoy the view from the waterfront.
Best Places to Visit in Venice: San Giorgio Maggiore Church, Bell Tower, Sunset Views
10. Get Lost in Venice’s Hidden StreetsSimply strolling down its less traveled roads and peaceful canals will help you to feel the genuine Venice. Venice is rich with secret piazzas, lovely bridges, and little cafés that provide a window into everyday Venetian life.
This is also one of the best free things to do in Venice, Italy and gives you a chance to see the real, uncrowded beauty of the city.Best Places to Visit in Venice: Hidden Piazzas, Small Canals, Authentic Local Cafés
Plan Your Venice Trip with Best Value Tourism
A city of romance, history, and adventure, Venice From romantic activities to do in Venice, Italy, family-friendly sights, to vibrant nightlife venues, this city has something for everyone.
For a hassle-free, enchanted trip, book your Venice tour package with Best Value Tourism Dubai. Allow us to assist you in discovering the best things to do, top places, hidden gems, and must-see attractions in Venice. Start planning your dream Venice vacation today!