10 best things to do in Venice, Italy

Start your Venetian adventure in the heart of it all — St. Mark’s Square, or Piazza San Marco. This grand piazza has been called Venice’s “drawing room,” where locals and visitors alike have gathered for centuries to sip espresso, feed the pigeons and soak in the Venetian architectural splendor. The square’s centerpiece, St. Mark’s Basilica, is an absolute masterpiece. You’ll find glittering gold mosaics, Byzantine domes and intricate marble details that shimmer in the sunlight. Make sure to go inside when the lights are turned on, so you can see the golden mosaics glow. Don’t forget to wander under the arched colonnades to browse historic cafés like Caffè Florian and window-shop your way through designer boutiques and souvenir stalls.

Just steps from the piazza, the Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale) invites you into the opulent world of Venice’s former rulers. You’ll walk through gilded chambers, climb grand staircases and marvel at ceilings painted by Venetian masters. The palace’s Gothic façade is reason enough to linger, but make sure to step inside to appreciate its artistry and political history — it was the seat of Venetian power for over 700 years. Before you leave, cross the hauntingly beautiful Bridge of Sighs, which once was the last glimpse prisoners got of the city as they were marched from court to their cells. 

No trip to Venice is complete without a gondola ride. Climb aboard a sleek, hand-crafted gondola and let your gondolier steer you through the narrow canals as they’ve done for generations. There’s a reason the gondola is the iconic symbol of the city. Drift beneath romantic bridges and alongside pastel palazzos, hearing only the gentle splash of oars and the hum of daily Venetian life. It’s the perfect way to see a quieter, more intimate side of the city — especially around sunset when the golden light reflects off the water.

The Grand Canal is Venice’s version of Main Street, only far more magical. Hop aboard a vaporetto (water bus) or water taxi for a scenic ride past some of the city’s most breathtaking architecture. Centuries-old palazzi line the canal, each one a testament to Venice’s mercantile past. You’ll pass under the Rialto Bridge, spot the domes of Santa Maria della Salute and take in sweeping city views that make you fall in love with Venice all over again.

The Rialto Bridge (Ponte di Rialto) is both a Venice icon and a bustling hub of daily life. Cross this elegant stone arch to catch panoramic views of the Grand Canal, especially lively at sunrise when market vendors begin setting up. While there are market stalls on the bridge, the nearby Rialto Market bursts with fresh produce, seafood and colorful stalls of Venetian specialties. Take your time wandering and sampling local bites from the charming cafés and artisan shops tucked just beyond the bridge. 

A short boat ride away lies Murano, the island world-famous for its glassmaking traditions. Step into a working glass studio to watch artisans shape molten glass into delicate chandeliers, vases, and jewelry — a mesmerizing art form perfected over centuries. The island’s museums and galleries tell the story of Murano’s craftsmanship, and you can even bring home an authentic handmade souvenir (just make sure it’s truly Murano-made, not an imitation).

If Murano shines, Burano glows. This cheerful fishing village looks like it was painted by an artist with a rainbow palette. Every house is a different hue, reflected beautifully in the canals. Beyond the picture-perfect scenery, Burano is also known for its intricate lace-making, a delicate art passed down through generations. Stroll through its peaceful streets, browse lace boutiques and snap endless photos of the vibrant facades and cozy waterside cafés.

For one of the best views in all of Venice, take the vaporetto across the lagoon to San Giorgio Maggiore. The island feels serene and uncrowded, a perfect escape from the buzz of St. Mark’s. Step inside the elegant church designed by Palladio to admire its Renaissance symmetry and works by Tintoretto. Then ride the elevator to the top of the bell tower for a breathtaking panorama of Venice’s skyline and sparkling waterways.

La Fenice (The Phoenix) is one of Europe’s most legendary opera houses and a symbol of Venice’s enduring spirit. Destroyed by fire more than once and always reborn, it lives up to its name. Step inside to marvel at its lavish gold balconies, crystal chandeliers, and velvet seating that still host world-class performances. Even if you don’t catch a show, stepping inside offers a glimpse into its dramatic history and grand design.

Once you’ve checked off the big landmarks, slow down and get lost — intentionally. Venice’s magic lives in its quiet corners: a tucked-away gelateria, a tiny bridge leading to a secret square or the sound of a violin echoing down an empty alley. Wander into the less-touristy neighborhoods like Dorsoduro or Cannaregio, where locals chat outside bakeries and laundry hangs above the canals. These hidden gems are what make Venice feel truly alive.

So you’re ready to experience Venice, the city where every bridge feels like a postcard and every turn reveals a secret canal. Whether you’re arriving for a few dreamy days or spending one perfect day in port, a little planning goes a long way toward making your time in La Serenissima unforgettable.

Venice is beautiful year-round, but timing your trip can make all the difference. We recommend s

• Spring (April–June) brings mild weather, blooming window boxes and fewer crowds — perfect for sightseeing and gondola rides.
• Summer (July–August) is warm and sun-soaked, but it’s also the busiest — so book early and pack your patience (and your sunhat).
• Fall (September–October) offers crisp air and a slower pace once summer visitors have drifted away.
• Winter (November–February) casts a mysterious, misty glow over the canals — plus, you can experience the magic of Carnevale, Venice’s famous masquerade season.

For the best sailing experience to Trieste (Venice), we recommend arriving in April–May or August–October, when the weather is kind, the city is at its most captivating and you'll make the most of every moment ashore.

Here’s the thing about Venice: there are no cars. The city moves at the rhythm of footsteps and waves — and that’s part of its charm. Here are the ways you’ll get around:

• On foot: Bring comfy shoes and embrace getting a little lost. The narrow alleys and countless bridges make wandering half the fun.
• By water: The vaporetto (public water bus) is the easiest and most scenic way to hop between neighborhoods or visit nearby islands like Murano and Burano. For something special, try a private water taxi or romantic gondola ride at sunset.

Pro tip: Download a Venice map app or screenshot your route — GPS can get a little whimsical among the canals!

If Venice is one of your cruise stops, you’ve got an incredible day ahead. Here are a few tips to getting the most out of a day in Venice:

• Start early to enjoy St. Mark’s Square before it fills with visitors. Nothing beats wandering the iconic piazza as the sun rises over the canals.
• Mix iconic sights with quiet corners — a stroll through Dorsoduro or a stop for cicchetti (Venetian tapas) in a local bacaro will show you the real city flavor.
• Plan a lagoon adventure. Hop on a vaporetto to Murano or Burano if time allows. The whole family will love watching the glassblowers and lacemakers in action.
• Leave room for spontaneity. Some of Venice’s best moments are the ones you stumble upon — like a street musician, a glassblower at work or the perfect view over a quiet canal.

The best way to arrive in Venice? By sea, of course! Watch the city’s spires rise from the lagoon as your ship glides toward port — it’s an entrance unlike any other.

Explore Mediterranean and Greek Isles cruises with Princess or find your perfect itinerary from Venice, Italy departure ports. 

Take your Venetian adventure to the next level — cruise to Venice with Princess and see why this floating city has enchanted travelers for centuries.