20 Fun & Best Things to Do in Venice, Italy

If you are considering or planning a trip to Venice, Italy, you’re in for a real treat. Venice is one of the most captivating destinations on Earth – and you’d best visit now while it’s still above water! When people think of the quintessential Italian vacation, Venice usually is one of the top places that spring to mind. This romantic city has many brilliant things to do, from gondola tours to glassblowing workshops, opera, and seeing how Venetian masks are made.

Luxury hotels overlooking canals, narrow streets dancing between shops and waterways, and all manner of important religious and culturally significant buildings filled with Renaissance art are just a few of the things that come to mind when I think of this iconic Italian city along the Adriatic Sea. The smell is another one – it can be a shock, but it’s nowhere near as bad as you might have heard, and Venice rarely gets a bit whiffy.

And don’t get me started on the Venice Carnival. Whether you want to explore the city’s famous Grand Canal and Venetian Lagoon, sample delicious Italian cuisine on a Venice food tour, take in the incredible Venetian Byzantine architecture, or enjoy the ambiance on a walking tour, there’s something for everyone at this famous city-wide UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Although Venice has a reputation for being nothing but a tourist trap, there are many lesser-known gems to explore. And believe it or not, this city also has plenty of budget-friendly activities, so you can enjoy all it has to offer without breaking the bank.

Still not convinced to visit Venice? Here are some of our top picks for some of the best things to do in Venice to help change your mind!

TL;DR

• Most significant landmark – Rialto Bridge
• Best park – Giardini Papadopoli
• Best free activity – Rialto Market
• Best activity for kids – Take a gondola ride on the Grand Canal
• Best activity for adults – Teatro La Fenice
• Best food – Gelato & Cicchetti (Venice’s take on tapas)
• Best nightlife – Bacaro Jazz
• Best all-around accommodation – The St. Regis Venice

Fun & Best Things to Do in Venice, Italy

1. Grand Canal

Address: 30100 Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy

Chances are that if you plan a trip to this famous Italian city and search for “things to do in Venice,” you’ve already heard of the famous Grand Canal. Many of this list’s attractions feature this majestic body of water as a centerpiece. “Grand” is a name well-earned.

This wide canal is arguably the most significant landmark in Venice, separating one side of the city from the other. Stretching over three kilometers, it is lined by beautiful palaces, churches, and historical buildings on both sides. The best way to experience the beauty and history of this iconic site is by taking a gondola ride along its waters. This quintessential Venetian experience offers amazing panoramas of this beautiful city’s iconic architecture and monuments.

No matter where you are in Venice, the Grand Canal is always in sight. Taking a gondola ride along its waters is the perfect way to experience this iconic landmark and get amazing panoramas of the city’s iconic architecture. It’s also expected of every Venice tourist, so don’t even think about missing out. Don’t be the one person who visits Venice and doesn’t ride in a gondola.

Water taxis and buses transport tourists across the entire grand canal or from one side of the city to another. And if you happen to be looking for hotels with a view of the canal, The St. Regis Venice and the Hotel Firenze are two of the best options.

See Related: Best Day Trips from Milan, Italy

2. Piazza San Marco (St. Mark’s Square)

Address: 30100 Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy

Piazza San Marco, or St. Mark’s Square, is one of the best gathering points in Venice and a must-visit destination for any traveler. Located at the heart of Venice, this beautiful plaza is the city’s main square. It is surrounded by some of Venice’s most gorgeous architecture, including Basilica di San Marco, Doge’s Palace, and Campanile di San Marco.

If you’re looking for a quiet place to relax and soak up the sun or want to take in the fantastic views of Venice from above, St. Mark’s Square is the perfect spot.

With plenty of benches, shaded areas, and other amenities, this plaza is a beautiful place to enjoy some downtime during your visit. And with so much history surrounding it (including St. Mark’s Basilica, one of the world’s most iconic cathedrals – I’ll mention it later), you’ll want to set aside some time to explore this great site.

Piazza San Marco is a convenient starting point for many of Venice’s top activities and attractions. It’s also a key point of interest on a lot of tours, trust me, join a walking tour of the city or hop on a street food tour and eat your way around Venice, and you will probably find yourself in St. Mark’s Plaza at some point along the way.

See Related: Fun & Best Things to Do in Genoa, Italy

3. San Giorgio Maggiore

Address: 30100 Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy

San Giorgio Maggiore is an island located just a short ferry ride from the main island of Venice and is one of the best places to visit in this beautiful city. This tranquil island offers fantastic views of the Venetian skyline and is the stomping ground for the city’s most important monuments, including San Giorgio Maggiore Church and San Marco Campanile.

Those looking for free things to do in Venice should set aside some time to explore San Giorgio Maggiore. The Basilica of San Giorgio Maggiore is free to visit and full of incredible art and architecture. At the same time, the San Marco Campanile offers some of the best views of Venice you’ll ever see.

Inside the San Giorgio Maggiore church, you’ll find incredible modern art and architectural works, including sculptures and paintings by some of the city’s most famous artists, such as Tintoretto and Giorgio Vasari.

Additionally, the Campanile di San Marco offers sweeping views of the sprawling city below, making it one of the best places in Venice to take in all this magical city.

Whether you plan to walk along the waterfront, enjoy a coffee at one of the cafes, or relax and soak up the views of this beautiful island, you can’t go wrong. Spend a day exploring this peaceful island, or if you want to enjoy its stunning skyline from afar, San Giorgio Maggiore is a must-visit for places to visit in Venice.

See Related: Fun & Best Things to do in Ravello, Italy

4. Rialto Bridge (Ponte di Rialto)

Address: Sestiere San Polo, 30125 Venezia VE, Italy

Okay, what is Venice known for besides gelato, romantic gondola rides, funny masks, seasonal flooding, and smells? Apart from those key features I just mentioned, Venice perhaps is most notably known for the Rialto Bridge. Located in the city’s heart, this famous bridge spans the Grand Canal and is a popular tourist attraction for its stunning architecture and city views.

With its unique design featuring shops along the sides and ornate arches overhead, the Rialto Bridge is one of the most famous landmarks in Venice. A unique feature of the Rialto Bridge is that it doubles as a market operating for nearly 1000 years!

Vendors selling souvenirs and everything from local produce to high-end fashion can be found along the sides of the bridge. This makes Rialto Bridge a one-stop shop for all your Venice shopping needs. Vendors at the Rialto Market are a great place to learn about local culture and pick up some unique gifts for your friends and family back home.

For those looking for fun things to do in Venice, a stroll across the Rialto Bridge should be at the top of your list. Stop and admire its intricate details up close or enjoy the view from afar; either way, visiting this historic site is essential.

I recommend staying near the Rialto Bridge in Venice, as it is conveniently located near many of the city’s top attractions and restaurants. Some great hotels nearby include San Lio Tourist House, a modern and comfortable hotel with spacious rooms and friendly staff.

Then there’s The Gritti Palace, a historic hotel overlooking the Grand Canal that offers luxurious boutique-style accommodations. No matter your travel style, there’s a perfect place to stay near this iconic bridge.

See Related: Fun & Best Things to Do in Sorrento, Italy

5. St. Mark’s Basilica

Address: P.za San Marco, 328, 30100 Venezia VE, Italy

Located in the heart of Venice, St. Mark’s Basilica is one of the city’s most iconic and famous landmarks, if not the most. Dedicated to the city’s patron saint, Mark the Evangelist, this stunning church features incredible architecture and breathtaking interior decor, making it a must-see for anyone visiting Venice. This historic basilica was designed in 829 and has been a popular tourist destination in Venice ever since.

This iconic landmark was formerly Venice’s religious center and remained an important sacred site. For those looking for a deeper understanding of Venetian history and the backstory of this significant holy site, exploring the on-site museum is also highly recommended.

A trip to St Mark’s Basilica is incomplete without exploring the church’s interior. The sheer size of the building is stunning, with soaring ceilings, intricate artwork, and beautiful stained glass windows illuminating the space.

One of the more notable aspects of St Mark’s Basilica is its beautiful domed roof, which features intricate mosaics in a wide range of lively colors. These elaborate mosaics can be admired from the ground level and above, thanks to sweeping views from the bell towers on each side.

St. Marks is an essential piece of Venice’s history and one of the best things to see in Venice. If you plan to visit the city, include a tour of St. Mark’s Basilica on your Venice itinerary.

See Related: Best Things to Do in Bolzano, Italy

6. Doge’s Palace

Address: P.za San Marco, 1, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy

Another historic Venezian landmark not to be missed during stopping by the city is the Doge’s Palace. No, not that, Doge. A Doge was an elected (rather than royally appointed) Duke, and like other historic Italian city-states (e.g., Genoa), Venice was ruled by a Doge. Although, can’t you imagine a cheeky Shiba Inu trying to administer a historic Italian city? Big excite. Noble beast. Much farce.

Anyway… Located in the heart of Venice, this imposing structure was designed by the famous Renaissance architect Antonio da Ponte. It has been a central part of the city since its construction in the late 15th Century.

The Doge’s Palace served as both the official residence and administrative center for the rulers of Venice. The palace also hosts several impressive museums, including the Ducal Palace Museum, and a wide range of formal rooms and grand halls open to visitors.

A tour of the Doge’s Palace is an excellent way to experience and learn about the history of this beautiful city. You’ll get to explore all of the highlights of this historic landmark, from its ornate exterior architecture to the breathtaking paintings and sculptures that adorn the interior. Be sure to stay for one of the palace’s popular daily performances, which includes a spectacular clock show and a stunning music-and-lights display.

Whether visiting Venice for a day or spending a few weeks exploring all the city has to offer, the Doge’s Palace is an absolute must-see. Its fascinating history and incredible beauty make it one of the best things to do in town. So add it to your itinerary and experience this iconic landmark.

See Related: Best Museums in Florence to Visit

7. Bridge of Sighs

Address: P.za San Marco, 1, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy

The Bridge of Sighs is an enclosed bridge made of white limestone and is a stunning sight in Venice. Located in the city’s historic center, this iconic landmark is best known for its stunning architecture and bridge-like design. The Bridge of Sighs spans Venice’s Rio di Palazzo and has sweeping views over the surrounding area.

Many visitors come to see this beautiful landmark up close and admire it from afar. It also features windows with stone bars, and the bridge connects the New Prison to the prisoner interrogation rooms in the Doge’s Palace.

Legend has it that this bridge got its name from the sighs prisoners heard as they overlooked Venice’s beauty for the last time before being carried away to their dark future of imprisonment! On a lighter note, it is also said that if a couple of kisses while passing underneath the bridge on a gondola, they will have eternal love. How sweet!

See Related: Italy vs. Greece

8. Murano 

Address: 30141 Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy

Fancy taking a day trip to explore a hidden gem? Murano is a small island located just a few miles north of Venice proper and is best known for its unique glass-making tradition. For centuries, many inhabitants of Murano have been devoted to creating beautiful Venetian glass pieces in a wide range of styles.

From delicate vases and intricate sculptures to colorful jewelry and Murano glass chandeliers, you’ll find endless possibilities when shopping for handmade glass in Murano. While here, you can tour a glass factory to see how glass is made and even try to make a piece of your own.

Aside from the glass-making tradition, Murano is also a popular foodie destination. This charming island has some of Venice’s best restaurants, from traditional Italian dishes to more contemporary fusion cuisine. Murano is one of the best places to try Italian favorites like pasta, risotto, and classic seafood dishes – so make sure to sample the local fare while visiting.

See Related: How Much is a Trip to Italy: Average Cost Per Day

9. Peggy Guggenheim Collection

Address: Dorsoduro, 701-704, 30123 Venezia VE, Italy

The Peggy Guggenheim Collection is a must-see for art fans in Venice. Located on the exclusive island of Dorsoduro, this art museum has one of Europe’s most significant modern and contemporary art collections.

With works by artists such as Salvador Dalí, Pablo Picasso, and Jackson Pollock, there are endless treasures to discover at the Guggenheim Collection. They also hold a few rotating exhibitions, so check the museum’s website to see what’s on display before your visit.

Of course, the uniqueness of this collection isn’t just found in the works displayed here but also in the building itself. This famous collection was initially housed in a stately mansion along the Grand Canal and has since been converted into a museum.

The mansion’s interior spaces have been kept accurate to their original designs and are an excellent example of Italian Art Deco architecture. Visitors can also explore the stunning building and gardens that house the museum, designed by renowned architect Philip Johnson.

The exhibition center buildings are a work of art, featuring clean lines and geometric shapes that perfectly complement the artwork. After exploring the gallery, don’t forget to take some time to enjoy the lush gardens, which are filled with sculptures and other works of art.

The Peggy Guggenheim Collection should be on your itinerary. This iconic art museum is a essential visit attraction for visitors of all ages and is easily one of Venice’s best places. Art enthusiasts look no further. Alright, maybe a bit further.

See Related: Best Things to Do in Rome & Places to Visit

10. Burano 

Address: 30142 Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy

Let’s hop over to the island of Burano, located along the Venetian Lagoon. This small fishing village is best known for its extraordinary colorful homes, beautiful canals, and dynamic atmosphere. Burano has a unique history that stems from its centuries-old tradition of lace-making.

You’ll find countless shops selling the finest handmade lace on this island – so don’t forget to bring your credit card! Aside from shopping, Burano is also a great place to explore. The island’s colorful buildings are unique, with brightly-painted facades that tell a different story through quirky designs.

You can easily spend hours just meandering along the island’s captivating avenues and enjoying the lively atmosphere of this fishing village. It’s highly Instagrammable, although I’d say the best way to experience this dynamic island village is on a boat tour of Burano.

You’ll get to sail along the Grand Canal and take in the amazing panoramas of Venice from afar before docking at this beautiful fishing village. Plenty of water taxis and private boats are also available for visitors who want a more exclusive experience, so it accommodates various preferences on this island.

If you’re searching for a little slice of Italian paradise, look no further than Burano. This charming fishing village is one of Venice’s top places to visit. And when it comes to accommodation on the island, Burano has many holiday homes and apartments to choose from. This 2-bedroom home is ideal for families and groups traveling together and features amazing panoramas of the Venetian Lagoon.

11. Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute

Address: Dorsoduro, 1, 30123 Venezia VE, Italy

The Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute is another one of the most iconic churches in Venice. Located on the shores of the Grand Canal, this stunning church was built to celebrate a miraculous recovery from the city’s devastating plague epidemic in 1630. Commonly known as the Salute, this famous Venice landmark and Roman Catholic Church is an essential piece of local history.

The Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute is open to visitors year-round and is one of Venice’s top places. The interior of this magnificent church is beautifully decorated, with golden altars, towering columns, and intricately-carved details adorning every inch of its walls.

Outside the church, visitors can admire its stunning Baroque facade or explore the gorgeous gardens that surround it. The gardens feature lush greenery, towering palm trees, and spectacular views of the Grand Canal. A tour of Santa Maria della Salute will transport you back to the Middle Ages, and well worth investigating if you’re into Venetian history.

This magnificent church is truly a must-visit during your trip to Venice. Entrance to this church is free, which is excellent news for those visiting Venice on a budget.

See Related: Best Travel Books for Italy

12. Teatro La Fenice

Address: Campo S. Fantin, 1965, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy

Italy is commonly known as the birthplace of western opera, so it is no surprise that Venice has one of the world’s most historic opera houses: Teatro La Fenice. This famous opera house, which features an iconic marble façade, was first built in 1792 and is considered one of the best places to visit in Venice if you love music or performing arts.

Teatro La Fenice is one of Europe’s most famous and influential opera houses, hosting countless world-famous performers. From Verdi and Mozart to Wagner and Puccini, this historic venue has seen some of the most talented performers in human history take the stage.

If an unforgettable cultural experience is what you’re looking for, a tour of Teatro La Fenice is an absolute must. Not only will you get to see all of the historical details that make this opera house so unique, but you might even have the chance to experience an evening performance by some of today’s top performers.

So if you’re a music or opera lover, be sure to add Teatro La Fenice to your list. Do note that Teatro La Fenice has a dress code, so check the website in advance and plan accordingly. Don’t you DARE come in here with tennis shoes!

13. St Mark’s Campanile Bell Tower

Address: P.za San Marco, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy

St. Mark’s Campanile is an iconic landmark in Venice known for its distinct Venetian architecture and stunning city views. Located on the beautiful Piazza San Marco, this bell tower was erected in the 10th Century and has played a significant role in Venice’s history ever since.

St. Mark’s Campanile is one of the top places to visit in Venice for those who love history and architecture. This bell tower is a stunning piece of Venetian Gothic architecture from the outside, featuring intricate carvings and beautiful stone detailing.

But what lies inside this famous landmark genuinely makes it one-of-a-kind. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower and take in sweeping views of the city. And if anyone in your party is feeling adventurous, you can climb to the top of the bell tower’s 323-foot-tall dome. While there is a small fee to climb to the top of the building, the views are worth it.

St. Mark’s Campanile is attached to the famed St Mark’s Basilica, so be sure to check these iconic landmarks out on your trip to Venice. Visit during the day or at night; you’re sure to be in awe of the beauty and history that surrounds this famous bell tower.

See Related: Best Pompeii Tours from Naples, Italy

14. Librarie Acqua Alta 

Address: C. Longa Santa Maria Formosa, 5176b, 30122 Venezia VE, Italy

For a unique Venice experience, head to Librarie Acqua Alta. This cozy bookstore is famous for its novelty collections and quirky decor, which include everything from antique bathtubs to vintage boats. Flooding is a theme here, as the bookstore itself gets its name from “acqua alta,” the periodic flooding Venice experiences throughout the year when the tide of the Adriatic Sea rises.

Located on the charming Campo Santa Maria Formosa in central Venice, Librarie Acqua Alta is the perfect place to spend a relaxing afternoon with a good book. This bookstore features thousands of titles spanning every genre, from travel guides to poetry, so you’re sure to find something that piques your interest.

Perhaps one of the best features of this unique bookstore is its collection of more than 4,000 antique books that are housed in bathtubs and wading pools – one wonders if this is a means of combatting the effects of acqua alta. It’s fair to say that most of these books aren’t the newest or most popular titles (and the vast majority are in Italian, go figure), but they offer a fun glimpse into Venice’s past and are sure to delight book lovers of all ages.

In addition, a few cats call this place home, so be sure to keep an eye out for these friendly feline friends as you explore the bookstore – or steer clear if you have an allergy.

If you love books as much as the owners of this bookstore, it’s easy to see why Libraries Acqua Alta is one of the top places to visit in Venice. It’s an excellent option for those looking for free things to do in Venice (unless you’re buying souvenirs for bookworms) or a place to stop by between sightseeing adventures.

15. Caffè Florian

Address: P.za San Marco, 57, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy

You can’t take a trip to Italy without indulging in one of the country’s best-loved culinary traditions: coffee! And when it comes to coffee in Venice, there’s no better place to indulge than Caffè Florian.

Located in the beautiful St. Mark’s Square in the heart of Venice, this historic cafe has been a favorite among locals and tourists for over 250 years. Caffè Florian was opened in 1720 and is one of the oldest continuously-operating cafes in the world. With its ornate decor and stunning piazza views, Caffè Florian is ideal for relaxing with a cappuccino or espresso.

But if you want to make your experience at this cafe special, try one of their famous pastries or gelato. It’s no secret that desserts are king here. Tiramisu, chocolate mousse, or a traditional sachertorte, all of it, Caffè Florian’s pastry chefs have got you covered, and some. It’s the ideal stop for sweetmeats – breakfast, lunch, or midday snack; you can’t go wrong.

When you’re looking for a delicious treat or want to experience some of the best coffee in Venice, be sure to stop by Caffè Florian. Not only is it a historic local institution, but the food is flipping great, too.

See Related: Best Wine Regions in Italy – Indulge in Vineyards and More

16. Museo Correr

Address: P.za San Marco, 52, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy

Museo Correr is one of the most famous museums in Venice and for a good reason. Located on the gorgeous Piazza San Marco right in the heart of downtown, this museum offers a fantastic glimpse into the history and culture of Venice. Museo Correr is one of the 11 civic museums run by the Fondazione Musei Civici di Venezia and probably the most impressive of the lot.

The Museo Correr was established by Napoleon’s sister Carolina in 1830 to provide educational opportunities for young Venetians. Today, it contains various art and artifacts, including paintings by Bellini and Tiepolo, sculptures by Canova and Tiziano Aspetti, and various archaeological finds from the area.

In addition to its permanent exhibits, Museo Correr also offers a rotating collection of unique exhibitions each year, ranging from ancient Roman artifacts to contemporary paintings. Perfect for the history buff looking to learn more about the city’s storied history, an art enthusiast looking for a unique cultural experience, and everyone else in between.

17. Giardini Papadopoli

Address: 30135 Sestriere Santa Croce, Venezia Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy

Sightseeing is fun (that’s kinda why this whole ViaTravelers thing exists), but sometimes it’s nice to relax and avoid the busy atmosphere of the city for a little while. For those looking to unwind in Venice, there’s no better place than Giardini Papadopoli.

Located right on the Grand Canal between Piazzale Roma and Fondamenta Nuove, this public park bills itself as “the green heart of Venice.” The Papadopoli family created Giardini Papadopoli in the 18th Century. Since then, it has become a beautiful public park perfect for picnics, relaxing walks, or enjoying the sunshine.

There are plenty of shady spots to sit and enjoy the view of the Grand Canal, as well as a playground, tennis courts, and public basketball courts. Giardini Papadopoli is one of Venice’s best parks and has peaceful fountains, lovely walking paths, and one of the most beautiful rose gardens I’ve ever seen in person. Curious travelers will also want to check out the park’s hidden tunnels, which are said to have been used for smuggling in the 18th and 19th Centuries!

It’s just a wonderful corner of town to take a breather. If you’re ever looking for a change of pace on your next trip to Venice or need somewhere to unwind and escape the crowds, Giardini Papadopoli is hard to beat.

See Related: Island of Procida Travel Guide

18. Hostaria Osottoosopra

Address: 30135 Sestriere Santa Croce, Venezia Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy

When it comes to where to eat in Venice, there’s no shortage of unique options. But if you’re hungry for a truly unique and unforgettable culinary experience, you can’t beat Hostaria Osottoosopra. Located in the Santa Croce neighborhood of Venice, this charming little restaurant brings traditional Venetian cuisine to life like nowhere else.

Hostaria Osottoosopra has an extensive menu of classic Italian dishes like pasta and pizza. But the real stars here are the traditional Venetian specialties, including seafood-based Cicchetti (Venice’s take on tapas), sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines – these are so good), and fegato alla veneziana (Venetian-style calf’s liver).

But perhaps the best thing about Hostaria Osottoosopra is its atmosphere. The dining room is elegantly decorated, and the food is consistently top-notch, making Hostaria Osottoosopra one of the best restaurants in Venice.

The restaurant prides itself on being where locals and tourists can come together to enjoy traditional Venetian dishes in an elegant atmosphere while receiving friendly, attentive service. Not only will you enjoy a delicious meal here, but you’ll also get a firsthand glimpse into the culture and history of Venice.

Hostaria Osottoosopra is a must-visit for foodies looking to sample some truly unique Venetian cuisine. Whether you’re a foodie looking to try the latest and greatest in Italian cuisine or want a memorable dining experience during your travels, be sure to add Hostaria Osottoosopra to your list of places to eat in Venice – or regret not going for the rest of your life.

PRO TIP: Hostaria Osottoosopra is an adult-only restaurant, so it’s not recommended for families with young kids.

19. Bacaro Jazz

Address: S. Marco, 5546, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy

Let’s talk about nightlife in Venice – hoo boy; you’re in for a treat (especially during Carnevale – I’ll get there, worry not). When looking for a fun and unique night out in Venice, look no further than Bacaro Jazz. This lively music venue hosts live performances every night of the week and are the perfect place for anyone who loves hot jazz music or cocktails with a view.

At Bacaro Jazz, you’ll find an intimate and cozy atmosphere, perfect for older and younger travelers looking to have a fun night out. Bacaro Jazz has a cocktail bar where bartenders serve beautifully crafted drinks from fresh local ingredients.

And of course, the main attraction here is the live music performances. Whether you’re a jazz connoisseur or just a music lover looking to unwind after a long day of sightseeing, Bacaro Jazz is the perfect place for you.

You can’t help but enjoy a night out in Venice at Bacaro Jazz. Sit back and relax as you listen to some of the best jazz musicians in town while sipping on those expertly crafted cocktails and enjoying stunning views of the Grand Canal.

20. Visit During Carnevale!

Venice is most famous for the Venetian mask and the unique mask culture the city revels in. You can find masks at any time of year from one of Venice’s many mask shops, but the best time to experience this delightful tradition is Carnevale (or Carnival).

This festival typically attracts millions of visitors yearly and is held just before Lent, but no one knows where the city’s fascination with masks came from.

The most common theories suggest it was a way for the city’s elite to travel the streets and canals of Venice incognito and get up to the mischief one didn’t talk about in polite society. It’s little wonder that the legendary Venetian intellectual gambler and lothario Giacomo Girolamo Casanova (or just Casanova) are closely associated with the Venetian mask.

In addition to not knowing the true origins of the town’s mask mania, no one knows Carnevale’s true origins either. One theory is that it all started as an impromptu street party in the late 12th Century, following a military victory of the Patriarch of Aquileia, Ulrico di Treven.

Other theories suggest that Carnevale resembles other Christian festivals celebrated just before Lent, such as Shrove Tuesday/Pancake Day and Mardi Gras. Excess is one common component of these festivals, so it makes sense.

That excess makes sense when you see thousands of people in masks wearing colorful, elaborate costumes! Marked with fancy dress parties, masquerade balls, and a contest for the Carnival’s most beautiful make, this is one tourist trap of an attraction that is worth the hype.

The best is that the masks are the best souvenir or gift from Venice you’ll ever find. Ten manufacturers are in the city, and a plethora of shops to find these fun face-coverings. There are even places where you can decorate your Venetian mask!

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