Founded in the 5th century AD as a refuge for people fleeing barbarian invasions after the fall of the Roman Empire, Venice is a city of islands peppered along the Venetian Lagoon. The natural protection offered by the marshy environment supported Venice’s development into a significant trading power. During the Middle Ages, the city became one of the most powerful maritime republics in the Mediterranean with colonies and trading posts throughout the Adriatic Sea and Aegean Sea. Flourishing during the Italian Renaissance, Venice experienced annexation by the Ottoman and Austrian Empires throughout the 19th century. The city’s unique canal system and beautiful architecture make it a popular tourist destination to this day. Do Venice right and ensure that you don’t miss any of the most popular stops when you travel with Gray Line Worldwide!
Tour Expert, Gray Line Venice
Learn why so many people around the world love Venice when you take a gondola ride along the iconic Grand Canal. As you glide through waters where history and romance intertwine, you'll be surrounded by stunning architecture that dates back centuries, including the magnificent Palazzo Ducale and the ornate Rialto Bridge. Expertly navigated by a skilled gondolier, these boats allow guests to soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this unique city in comfort and style. Each twist and turn in the waterways reveals picturesque views of charming neighborhoods, hidden piazzas, and the bustling cadence of everyday life in Venice. A gondola ride is not just a means of transportation; it’s a quintessential Venetian experience that showcases the absolute best of the city.
One of Venice’s six historic neighborhoods, the Cannaregio district is, on the surface, a picture-perfect place to become immersed in everyday Venetian life. More dark, however, is the array of frequent hauntings and spirits said to roam the streets and buildings of this neighborhood. Named for the reeds that once grew in its marshy landscape, Cannaregio was home to the Jewish Ghetto, whose inhabitants experienced persecution and murders during the Inquisition and World War II. Its narrow alleys often reflect ghostly apparitions that disappear upon further investigation. Similarly, Campo de Mori features three allegedly cursed Moorish statues that imbue viewers with visions. The Church of Santa Maria dei Miracoli is another Cannaregio staple where many visitors report feeling chills and experiencing other forms of unexplained phenomena.
With an intricate Gothic design, the Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale) served as the residence of the Doge of Venice, the supreme authority of the Venetian Republic from the 9th century until 1797. Notable artists contributed to the building’s frescoes and exterior adornments, including Tintoretto and Veronese. As both a residence and seat of government, the Doge’s Palace hosted the Great Council, Senate, and Council of Ten, which all played crucial roles in governing the city. The palace’s Hall of the Great Council features one of the largest canvases in the world. Today, the Doge’s Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that draws millions of visitors a year. From the infamous Bridge of Sighs to secret passageways, this Venice landmark is not one to miss.
A short vaporetto ride from Venice’s heartland lies two islands: Murano and Burano. The former has been internationally known for its glass-making craftsmanship since the 13th century. Numerous glass factories produce everything from delicate chandeliers to intricate glass sculptures. With a blend of colorful buildings and serene canals, Murano is a great place to step out of the bustling crowds for a while and simply enjoy the ambiance. Like its neighbor, Burano showcases candy-colored houses and supports a thriving lace-making tradition. In a practice that dates back centuries, residents select exterior paint on their homes reflective of their individual personalities. As a result, this island creates a distinctively whimsical atmosphere and remains a favorite among photographers.
Venice has been home to many artists over the centuries, but Carlo Scarpa stands out. An Italian architect and designer known for his unique approach to projects, Scarpa held a deep sense of respect for his materials and the historical sites he worked on. Visit the Fondazione Querini Stampalia, a renovated palace where Scarpa experimented with space and light. He also collaborated with several glass manufacturers in Murano and designed objects like vases and lighting fixtures. Finally, the Olivetti Showroom in St. Mark’s Square was designed by Scarpa in the 1950s and showcases his ability to create a modern retail space that honors Venice’s long history of creators.
A historic palace in Venice, the Palazzo Grimani was built in the late 16th century for the family of the same name. The Grimanis were prominent Venetian nobles and hired architect Giovanni Antonio de’ Rossi to design their home. Notable for its unique architectural style, the palace combines elements of Renaissance and Mannerist design. It features a grade facade with a central entrance flanked by two large windows. Known as patrons of the arts, the Grimanis owned an extensive collection of Renaissance paintings, Roman artifacts, and classical sculptures. After significant restoration work, the Palazzo Grimani was reopened as a museum to showcase the Grimani family’s collection.
Easily one of the most famous churches in the world, St. Mark’s Basilica was built in the 9th century to house the relics of St. Mark the Evangelist, which were allegedly brought to Venice from Alexandria, Egypt. The standing structure was completed in the 11th century, but several renovations and expansions have occurred in intervening years. The basilica has served as the cathedral of the Patriarchate of Venice and symbolizes the city’s particular wealth during the Middle Ages. Renowned for its Italo-Byzantine design, the interior is adorned with over 8,000 square meters of stunning mosaics that depict biblical scenes in gold and colored glass. Even while attracting millions of tourists a year, St. Mark’s Basilica still functions as an active church for the resident population.
The Rialto Bridge is one of Venice’s most famous landmarks. Built in the late 12th century, the original wooden bridge was the crossing point over the Grand Canal. It was replaced by a more durable stone structure in the late 16th century. For the replacement, architects competed for the right to design the bridge with Antonio da Ponte as the ultimate winner. The bridge itself is a single arch structure made of Istrian stone and is lined with souvenirs, jewelry, and craft shops. Guests can explore the Rialto Bridge in the San Polo district of Venice and marvel at the beauty and elegance of this highly recognizable structure.
A historic building in Venice, the Fondaco dei Tedeschi was built in the 13th century as a trading post for German merchants. In fact, the term “Fondaco” refers to a warehouse or trading house. It served as a centralized hub for commerce and trade between Venice and the German states. After the building fell into disrepair, it was repurposed as a customs house and post office. The Fondaco dei Tedeschi’s striking facade features large arched windows and a central loggia. Now a luxury shopping center, visitors can explore the high-end boutiques and designer stores in the space. The rooftop terrace offers incredible views of the Grand Canal and the city.
On the surface, Venice is a city of well-known canals, including the Grand Canal and the several surrounding St. Mark’s Square. A series of lesser known canals, however, offer a less crowded and more serene experience for visitors willing to seek them out. Become immersed in the daily life of the city and view local shops, residences, and bridges that are off the beaten path. Notable hidden canals include the Rio di San Trovaso — a canal in the Dorsoduro district near the traditional boatyards — and Canal dei Ormesini, a waterway lined by colorful houses.
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