33 Cool Things to Do in Venice 2024 – Adventure, Islands and Venetian Food

So, you are looking for the best and fun things to do in Venice? You have just come to the right place. This is our ultimate list of things to do and activities in Venice Italy; outside the tourist box.

We LOVE to explore the world and it’s hidden gems. Nevertheless, we share also the must-dos for Venice. The gondola ride, beautiful Piazza San Marco, this list would not really be complete without them.

We numbered every item and included a description of it.

• WHY we recommend it
• HOW to get here
• WHERE to book

We also give you our best tips for accommodation in our guide to where to stay in Venice. It covers Hostels, hotels, apartments and even the luxury experience.

Last but not least, here’s our guide to the perfect 7 days in Venice. We share how to get around and how many days we really recommend staying here.

(Last update: April, 2024)

Magical paradise, Venice is a world known for its gorgeous photos, shared all over the internet.

Have you seen those beautiful Instagram photos of Venice? You will get them too through this list. We did, of course, share our experience on our Instagram, check out our Venice stories if you wanna get some more details.

List of Cool Things to Do in Venice

Found something in particular that catches your interest? Feel free to jump to the best things to do in Venice or you can just take your time and read all through the lines.

1. Visit Piazza San Marco

Sorry, but we have to start with a very obvious one. Bare with us, this list is gonna get much better, yet we have to cover this one.

This is the number one thing you have to do once you arrive in Venice. Not only is it the main square, the heart of Venice but also the magical place where every single tourist comes together.

In Piazza San Marco, you’ll find stunning landmarks like Santa Maria della Basilica. While the cafes here are a bit pricier, the lively atmosphere with continuous live music is a treat. We recommend a visit to soak in the ambiance, snap photos, and then explore.

Don’t forget to admire the breathtaking views of Giorgio Maggiore, home to the iconic Church of San Giorgio Maggiore, reachable via a scenic waterfront stroll.

There is much more to discover in Venice; with lesser tourists and better prices. Either way, we consider Piazza San Marco an absolute must-do!

Note: It is forbidden to sit down at Piazza San Marco. In the night there is no police, so you can sit down and take beautiful photos. You did not hear this from me…

Book a 75-Minute Walking Tour here

2. Take a Gondola Ride (but know what you want!)

Yes, yes!! Take a beautiful, romantic Gondola ride. Everybody does it and it is certainly beautiful. There are a few things to consider before hopping in your first Gondola.

• Do you want to try riding a Gondola on your own?
• Do you want to do it by day or by night?
• Do you want to join more people?
• Or you can also have a gondola ride with dinner experience.

It all affects the price.

I seriously recommend taking a Gondola ride combined with you trying it for yourself as well. It is more fun, and certainly a memorable experience. Riding along the Grand Canal at night can be particularly enchanting.

Is it worth it to take a Gondola Ride in Venice?

The first time I visited, I skipped this experience. I felt it would be too touristy. On my second visit, I hopped on. I found a Gondola a bit of the beaten path and we went along canals with much less Gondolas and boats.

It was great, I loved it! However, do not expect the Gondolier to sing along.

Tip: Make sure you bring your camera, you do want to take plenty of photos!

Book a Gondola Ride with Dinner Experience here

3. Alternative: Take a Gondola Ride for 2€

A cheaper alternative is the regular gondola, being used as public transport. The two main islands are connected by a few bridges. On a few points away from the bridges, you can take Gondolas to cross the river.

It only costs 2€ and it takes around 2 minutes to cross.

This is an excellent option if you feel like the official Gondola rides are too pricey. Or in case you are too sensitive to boat rides, this is my case.

Bear in mind, these regular Gondolas are not the beautiful, decorated Gondolas. Nevertheless, it’s much cheaper and a fun thing to do while in Venice.

4. Stay at a Former Monastery

Venice is a very unique destination. Make sure you pick a unique accommodation for your stay.

Here are a few options:

• Casa Sant’Andrea near the train station. It has a very simple decoration.
• San Clement Palace Kempinski: it is on the San Clemente island. You have to take a boat to get there and it is totally worth it.
• We LOVE Combo Venezia. It is a former Monastery, located on the main island. It’s an enormous building and all rooms come with views of the canal. This is absolutely amazing!

Combo Venezia is a hostel, yet it is recommended for all ages and all types of travelers.

• solo traveler
• couples
• elderly couples
• groups

The rooms are high-end and you can sleep in comfortable beds with no noise. Combo Venezia also organizes weekly events like Aperitivo, small concerts, wine tastings, cinemas, you name it.

Venice has many tourists coming over only for the day. That is because of the cruise ships on the Mediterranean. Anyway, Venice is gorgeous and I highly recommend staying at the very least for 1 night. Even better for the perfect stay is 2 nights!

5. Seek for hidden squares

Venice is touristy, yes. But it also has many hidden gems and squares all around. Just go off the beaten path and you will explore a few for sure.

The beaten path in Venice? That is the direct street of Ponte Degli Scalzi connecting the Piazza San Marco with the main train station. Strada Nuova, where all the shops are. The Rialto Bridge is also another highlight, as same as the surrounding islands like Burano and Murano.

My three favorite hidden squares are:

• Campo Dei Gesuiti
• San Zaccaria
• Campo Madonna de l’Orto
• the area around Cannaregio
• San Zan Degolà

Book Hidden Venice: Unusual Walking Tour here

6. Walking Tour to the hidden spots

Another way to get around? Get a local tour guide.

But, obviously, we don’t recommend a regular tour guide. Get one that goes beyond the touristy things. We enjoyed With Locals for local tours.

You can find more walking tours in Venice here.

Don’t forget to also explore the vibrant Rialto Market where locals and visitors alike come together to shop for fresh produce and experience a true slice of Venetian life.

Book Hidden Venice 75-Minute Walking Tour here

7. Visit Libreria Acqua Alta

Considered one of the most beautiful bookshops in the world is Libreria Acqua Alta. This library is truly special. You will find the books are kept in bathtubs, gondolas, and boats. Why? You might ask.

Well, if you ever heard about the winter phenomena that hit Venice, High water (Aqua Alta), here you have the answer.

The owner considered that he had to find a solution to save the books in case the bookshop gets really flooded.

If you want to be helpful, then buy a book here or any souvenir. It helps the owner to actually run the shop!

Note: Don’t leave Aqua Alta without visiting also the outside part of the bookshop.

Book a Venetian Sweets Tour here

8. La Biennale Di Venezia

Huge range of art – to different tastes! For art lovers, you will need a whole day needed to see La Biennale Di Venezia.

The ticket is valid for 2 days. It is thought that the visitor spends one day on the Arsenale and one day on the gardens (Giardini la Biennale)

9. Try Gelato and more Gelato

You are in Italia, you are in Venice.

It actually goes without saying, but here are the absolute must-eats in Italy:

• Pizza
• Pasta
• Aperitivo
• Gelato

All over Italy, you can find endless restaurants and Gelateria.

My favorite Gelateria is Gelateria Nico. Why this Gelateria? Cause the views and the vibes from the surroundings are great. Gelateria Nico is located at the Zattere Promenade, a popular waterfront walkway along the Giudecca canal.

Get your ice cream, seat around, and enjoy the show.

10. Become a local

Wanna get some real hidden gems? Then check out this guide on the best 6 hidden gems to Venice in a secret guide. You can download the guide for free.

11. Try on the Venetian Mask (and get one as a Souvenir)

The Venetian Mask is world-famous. You may have seen it already in advertising, photos or wherever. It is a common motif to use.

Although Carnival takes place in February/March, you will find the masks all year round. It was quite surprising to me how beautiful they are. The quality was also surprising to me.

Therefore, it is a perfect souvenir. You can also consider this mask for your next carnival party or Halloween party – when mixed up properly with some crazy outfit.

Some of the street vendors allow you to take photos with the mask. At least do that!

Book Carnival Mask Treasure Hunt here

12. Or make your own Venetian Mask

If buying a souvenir is nothing for you, then make your own one. Make a handmade Venetian mask. There are several shops around, offering this unique activity in Venice.

You can also book your spot directly here.

I’ve to admit: I first thought these masks are cheesy and so touristy. But actually, when I tried one the first time I really liked it. It is quite artistic. I got myself one for carnival. Give it a go!

Book Make-Your-Own Paper Mache Mask Experience here

13. St Marks Bell Tower

Located directly at Piazza San Marco, St Marks Bell Tower is an iconic landmark. If you are looking for what to see in Venice list, this tower will be on it!

You can join tours to go up the St Marks Bell Tower. It is worth it! But don’t get trapped in the queue. Buy your ticket and skip the line.

You can climb up all the stairs to soak in a wonderful view over Venice and other areas. It is also a unique view from Piazza San Marco right below.

If you’re interested in exploring Riva degli Schiavoni as part of your Venice visit, it’s a beautiful promenade along the waterfront near St. Mark’s Square.

Book St. Mark’s Square Private Tour with Bell Tower View here

14. Exclusive Alone in St. Mark’s Basilica After Hours

After closing time, when visitors have been pushed out, a guard unlocks the doors of St. Mark’s Basilica to explore the city’s most important building completely alone.

With walks of Italy, you will have access to the areas of St Mark’s Basilica with a small group of max 15 people and an expert tour guide who will tell you the stories and help you spot all the details

You will also be able to visit the crypt, where to bones of St. Mark himself are said to lie.

Book Saint Mark’s Basilica After Hours Guided Tour here

15. Visit the three island: Murano, Torcello, Burano

You may already come across the three islands, surrounding Venice. The three islands are:

• Murano
• Torcello
• Burano

You can visit these islands for a day trip from Venice. This is something quite unique since you can also visit the Glass factory in Murano and explore the historic sights in Torcello.

Don’t forget to take in the breathtaking view of Venice from the dome of Santa Maria della Salute.

Book Boat Trip: Glimpse of Murano, Torcello & Burano Islands here

16. Admire the popular Doge’s Palace

Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale) is not just a majestic building in Venice. It represented for centuries the seat of the Venetian political power.

You could just admire the palace from the outside but trust us, it is worth it to get in. Splendid rooms, hundreds of masterpieces of painting, a golden staircase, crossing the Bridge of sighs…

The information at the palace is quite badly organized. That is why I do recommend you to get a tour.

My favorite tour is with Walks of Italy.

The tour includes:

• Explore the more impenetrable parts of the Doge’s Palace, including torture chambers and interrogation rooms
• Learn more about the people who passed through this building
• Acquaint yourself with St. Mark’s Basilica and marvel at the treasure trove housed within

Book Doge’s Palace Tour here

17. Join a Free Walking Tour

We already shared the walking tours. There are as well free walking tours and small group tours in Venice. They are tip-based. This means you pay at the end of the tour whatever you feel this tour was worth it.

An average tip is around $10 per person. Backpackers usually pay less while families pay a bit more.

18. Peggy Guggenheim Collection

Not everything is history and old in Venice. You can find also a museum of modern art, the Peggy Guggenheim Collection.

Book Peggy Guggenheim Collection Ticket here

19. Legends and Ghost tour of Ancient Venice

Interested in the ghosts and the mystery of Venice? 

Experience the mysterious atmosphere yourself as the night falls on the Cannaregio district of Venice with an entertained guided tour.

Book 2-Hour Legends and Ghosts of Cannaregio Tour here

20. Teatro La Fenice

One of the best venues to experience an Opera in Italy – and Europe.

Teatro La Fenice is a historic theater with stunning decor inside.

If you like opera and are visiting Venice you should definitely try to get tickets. If you do not like opera, we do recommend you to visit the Theater anyways. It is a beautiful place!

The Majestic Teatro La Fenice Guided Tour here

21. Murano Glass Factory Experience: Factory Tour and Workshop

Murano glass is originally from Burano, Venice. Nowadays, you can still see a glass-blowing demonstration by a glass master in Burano Island.

To understand really the process and get a special experience, join the Factory tour and workshop and create your own bracelet, key holder or earrings from scratch.

Book Murano Glass Factory Tour & Glass Blowing Demonstration here

22. Leonardo da Vinci Museum

Quite a small museum but it is quite interesting is the Leonardo da Vinci Museum.

Basically, it consists of models of Leonardo’s ideas and inventions. Some of which were realized (you will be surprised how many things that he invented are still in use today). Others which never were realized.

Many of the exhibits are interactive and most also showed an explanation or history of the invention.

A cool way to find out so much more information about Da Vinci.

Book Leonardo Da Vinci Museum Entrance Ticket here

23. Hop-On Hop-Off Boat

In all the big and even small cities in Europe offer the famous Hop-On Hop-Off bus.

There is one as well in Venice.

The difference? It is a boat, not a bus. You can hop-on whenever you want, and you can hop-off whenever you want. There are different packages available, suitable for your length of stay.

I think I mentioned it before but I would recommend staying 2 nights, 3 days in Venice.

24. Venice in one Day (skip all lines)

Venice can be „done“ in one day, this is true! Many people do it, and so can you.

However, you need to prepare this a bit. Get the Skip-all-line ticket to… Well… You know why.

The main landmarks are usually busy and you can lose your time in lining up. Get the skip-all-line tickets and you can go ahead – literally.

Get the Spill all line VIP one Venice tour and get an 8-hour tour to Marvel at the city’s Byzantine bridges, palaces, villas, and churches. You will also skip the long lines to St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace. And go by a water taxi through the canal.

Book Venice in 1 Day Tour here

25. Aurora Beach Club

Visiting Venice in Summer? Then you cannot miss the Aurora Beach Club.

It is the highlight of Summer in Venice. Located on the Lido beach, the Aurora Beach Club contributes to the fun night atmosphere with colored lighting, popular DJs, large white sunbeds, and fruity cocktails.

Discover Aurora Beach Club on an E-bike here

26. Beach Time in Venice!

Yes, Venice has its own beaches. And it is quite easy to get here.

The most convenient is the Lido. You can reach it with a Vaporetto and you will find the clean waters and soft sand.

It is said that the most beautiful is the Caorle. A colorful fishing village turned into a resort town. To get there, you need to take a bus or a train.

Book Off-Road Lido Beach and Bike Tour with Appetizer here

27. Get lost in the restaurants

It is common knowledge: Italian food is AWESOME! Sorry, I am a huge fan…

But seriously, get lost in the restaurants in Venice!

I know many people say it is difficult to find good places to eat in Venice. Read this guide on 22 places to eat in Venice. There is some really good food! After all, it is still Italy.

Good to know: In Italy, you pay an extra fee just for sitting down. It is called „Coperto“ and it ranges from 1€ to 2€.

Better to know: This „Coperto“ fee at Piazza San Marco can easily be around 10€. Pay attention before taking a seat! If in doubt, ask the bartender or have a look on the menu.

28. Go for Aperitivo (or 2, or 3…)

The Aperitivo is celebrated every evening, around 6 PM (18:00).

What is this Aperitivo?

Order a drink and a small pasta dish or anti-pasta. This is how it works — simple. Here is a full guide on what’s an Aperitivo.

Where to get Aperitivos?

Not all restaurants and bars offer Aperitivos.

The Combo Venezia organizes Aperitivo. Keep an eye on their blackboard and join. I highly recommend to my guide on best places to stay in Venice.

I am sharing here hostels, hotels and other accommodations that offer more than a bed, but also experiences and such.

Book Combo Hostel here

29. Try the Venetian tapas

The Cicchetti is known as the Venetian tapas and it is very common to find them

Go to the bar, order a drink and a couple of Cichetti. Hop to another bar. Repeat the process until your stomach is full.

Popular Cicchetti in Venice are:

• Al Mercà
• Da L’Arco

Many locals meet for a drink and a couple of Cichetti. It is like their after-work meeting. Try to join them. In the best-case scenario, you will be invited to an Italian house with home-made pasta.

Prefer a guided tour? Then check out this Venice Food Tour.

This will be your magic bullet to great food. I joined on my first visit to Venice, totally worth it. I even went back to the same places on my next visits.

30. Join concerts at Combo Hostel, a former monastery

While we are talking about events at Combo Hostel, they also organize concerts. When you are staying at the accommodation, you will be updated on the events in the hostel.

You can also visit the concerts when you are NOT staying at Combo Hostel Venezia. Just visit their website to see what is going on and come over.

The atmosphere is easy-going, the building beautiful and the music was always great when we joined.

Book Combo Hostel here

31. Slow down with a coffee (and visit the rest-room)

While there are so many day trips and activities around Venice, it is important to remember to slow down!

It is not a race, it is vacation time. Have a seat in a cafe. Order a Latte Macchiato, Cappuccino, whatever you feel like. You can watch people passing by and charge your inner battery.

Good to know: The public toilets usually cost around 1-2€. Remember to use the restroom before you continue your journey.

32. Escape Room

I bet this one you did not expect. In case you are looking for fun things to do in Venice on a rainy day, consider an Escape Room. Escape Venice.it has three different themes.

They are always changing. So please make sure the theme fits your interest. Not all of them are actually for kids.

33. Photo Tour

Last, but certainly not least: We recommend a professional photo tour.

Get a professional photographer, taking beautiful shots of you and your time in Venice. The portfolio of Pictrip is impressive.

Book your Travel Photographer here

Accommodation Guide

Staying in Venice is an experience itself. There are gorgeous guesthouses, impressive boutique hotels, and interesting hostels.

I recommend staying on the main island. It is easier as you can go out at night and you don’t have to worry about the last ferry. You will find anything from

• Hostels
• Hotels
• Apartments
• Luxury Level

Please read my detailed guide on where to stay in Venice Italy.

How long to stay in Venice?

Perfect stay: 3 nights!

I recommend staying at the very least 1 night in Venice. It is simply too beautiful and too much to see as a day trip.

A great time frame would be 2 nights and 3 days. When you are staying 3 nights, it’s absolutely perfect to see all Venice with no rush at all. It is really up to you.

How to get around Venice?

You can take the Hop-On Hop-Off Boat. There are several, flexible packages available, depending on your length of stay. Venice is really walkable.

Bikes and Segway are no option at all since you have numerous stairs and bridges you will not be able to cross.

You can also take the public boats. There are several stops even around the islands. It is easy to get around.

In between the islands, you can take a private boat or public boat as well. To get from Piazza San Marco to Burano, Murano… you can take a ferry. For those arriving by air, the Marco Polo Airport provides convenient access to the city and the islands.

It is really easy to get around Venice. Walk and get the Hop-On Hop-Off ticket and you are ready to go.

Map + All Sights 

Get ready to explore Venice like never before with our handy map! This isn’t just any map; it’s your personal guide through the winding canals and charming streets of this magical city.

We’ve pinpointed all the must see in Venice, from the famous Piazza San Marco to those hidden gems only the locals know about.

Whether you’re in the mood for a romantic gondola ride, craving some delicious gelato, or keen to discover Venice’s hidden corners, our map is here to help you navigate your way through this amazing city with ease and fun.

FAQs

Summary: Unique Things to Do in Venice Italy

There you have it. I just gave you a bunch of cool activities for Venice. Some are for rainy days, other a bit touristy, I’ve to admit. Make sure you plan a bit ahead of time and have a look on what is available.

Remember to read my detailed guide for the perfect Venice itinerary. I included the best perks as well as some preparing you need to do beforehand.

I also wrote up a big guide on travelling around Italy.

Venice is fairly small and things to do are limited. However, if you do it right, Venice will absolutely amaze you. I went already 4 times; every single time I am enjoying it.

Any questions? Then please leave a comment below. I would be thrilled to help you.

Any Questions? 

If you have any more questions that were not covered or even if you have any concerns, feel free to drop a comment below. This way I can help ease your mind.

Before you run off, a quick reminder on my other detailed guides:

• cool things to do in Florence
• the perfect Venice itinerary
• best tools and websites to organize your Europe trip
• fun things to do in Rome
• where to stay in Florence for the first-time?

Venice is a beautiful city that is a dreamy destination for any traveler, and I hope that this article fills you with enough determination to make Venice your next travel destination!