6 Beautiful Tourist Destinations To Visit In Venice

Venice, with its enchanting atmosphere, stands as one of the world's most popular tourist destinations. The city offers a delightful blend of artistic living, magnificent basilicas, the iconic Grand Canal, captivating gondola rides, a wide array of Venetian culinary delights, contemporary fashion, a rich history and literary heritage, a labyrinth of waterways, numerous museums, stunning architecture, and a myriad of other attractions for its visitors. There is never a dull moment in this unique city, making a vacation here an undoubtedly unforgettable experience.

# Gondola ride

An essential experience in Venice, a gondola ride allows you to leisurely savor the tranquil views of the city. While gliding through the intricate network of backwater canals, bask in the delightful atmosphere. Simply relax in the crescent-shaped boat as the gondolier skillfully guides their oar through the narrow water passages. The journey along the Grand Canal typically lasts about half an hour and offers breathtaking vistas. In the past, gondolas served as a vital means of transportation, but today, they have evolved into a beloved tourist attraction.

# Basilica di San Marco

Regarded as Venice's most renowned church, the Basilica di San Marco was originally the private chapel of the Doge, the highest-ranking elected official in Venice. This opulent church is situated on the square bearing the same name and ranks among the top attractions in Venice. Its walls and domes are adorned with Byzantine art treasures and gilded mosaic paintings. The Basilica is open daily from 09:45 AM to 05:00 PM, and entry to the church is free. However, there is a modest fee for accessing the Pala d’oro, treasury, and the on-site museum.

# Gallerie dell’Accademia

# Situated along the Grand Canal, the Gallerie dell’Accademia is home to an extensive and highly significant collection of Venetian paintings dating from the 15th to the 18th century. Many of these artworks were relocated here from inactive churches, monasteries, and the residences of noble families. The paintings are organized into various galleries, each reflecting a chronological sequence, allowing visitors to appreciate the progression of painting styles and techniques. Notable pieces include Tintoretto's "Cain and Abel" and "The Miracle of St. Mark," Giovanni Bellini's "Madonna and Saints," Titian's "Supper in the House of Levi," and "Pietà," among others.

# Palazzo Ducale

An absolute must-visit attraction in Venice, the Palazzo Ducale served as the official residence of the Doge. Constructed in the mid-14th century, it stands as one of the city's oldest edifices, showcasing a captivating Gothic architectural style. This grand structure was the epicenter of government affairs, where all official orders were executed. Moreover, it harbors several concealed doors and secret passageways, adding to its mystique.

In 1923, a portion of the palace was transformed into a museum, housing a remarkable collection of masterpieces. It also occasionally serves as a venue for art exhibitions. Accessible for an entrance fee of €19.50, the Palazzo Ducale welcomes visitors from 08:30 AM to 07:00 PM. You can find this palace in the bustling St. Mark's Square.

# Scuola Grande di San Rocco

Erected to accommodate a charitable association devoted to San Rocco's church, the Scuola Grande di San Rocco is a remarkable structure crafted from pristine white marble. It was built during the years spanning from 1515 to 1560. Following its completion, the renowned 16th-century Venetian artist Tintoretto adorned the central ceiling panel with a breathtaking painting that earned him accolades. His magnificent artwork remains on display to this day. Additionally, he went on to embellish both the walls and the ceiling of the building, showcasing his masterful use of light and color in his paintings, which continues to captivate viewers.

# Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari

Commenced by the Franciscans around 1340, the Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari showcases splendid Gothic architecture, which was further enhanced with exquisite interiors and a stunning facade, along with the addition of two chapels in the mid-15th century. Notably, the bell tower, or campanile, of this basilica stands as the city's second tallest. While the exterior retains a minimalist aesthetic, the interiors are truly breathtaking.

Within these hallowed walls, you can admire the masterpieces created by legendary Venetian artists such as Titian, Bellini, Vivarini, and other celebrated names. The basilica is open to visitors every day from 09:30 AM to 05:00 PM.