12 Things to Do in Venice, Italy

1. Explore the Grand Canal and Its Historic Palazzi

One of the best things to do in Venice is to take in the Grand Canal and its historic palazzi. A ride along the Grand Canal in a gondola gives you a sense of how Venice was developed and why this is an iconic car-free destination. Many of the palazzi that border the waterways were constructed by merchant families looking to display their wealth and prestige, so you’ll see everything from Gothic windows to Baroque facades as you laze down the canal. These gondola tours are an easy way to get oriented and appreciate how the city evolved along its waterways.

3. Discover the Secrets of Doge’s Palace and the Bridge of Sighs

On city tours in Italy, stops at awe-inspiring palaces are common, and a visit to Venice is no exception. Doge’s Palace features grand chambers where political debates, court decisions and diplomatic meetings took place and shaped the republic. The interior artwork was completed by leading Italian artists like Tintoretto, Paolo Veronese and Tiziano Vecellio, so each room carries both artistic and political meaning. The Bridge of Sighs is a world-famous bridge that connects the palace to the city’s jail cells to help you imagine the justice system that once governed the city.

4. Learn the Story of the Rialto Bridge and Its Market District

Another must-do in Venice is to experience the Rialto area, which was the economic heart of Venice, where merchants from across Europe and Asia exchanged goods, turning the neighborhood into a lively crossroads of cultures. One of the defining landmarks of this neighborhood is the Rialto Bridge, which served as a symbol of this activity. Today, the markets continue to operate, allowing locals and visitors to shop for fresh seafood, produce and everyday essentials.

5. Experience the Artistry of Murano and Burano

Murano’s glassblowers have passed their techniques down through generations, and many glassblowing workshops throughout Venice allow you to watch the process up close to learn how these artisans bring their creations to life. Burano feels quieter and more residential, where lace makers continue a craft that was once highly prized in European courts. Tours of these islands in the Venetian Lagoon and their highly-skilled artisans are some of the top things to do in Venice, offering a personal look at Venetian tradition.

6. Attend a Classical Music Performance in a Historic Venue

Still wondering what to do in Venice? If you’re a music lover, follow the notes and melodies to the city’s many churches and halls that date back hundreds of years. These settings create a warm, intimate soundscape, offering a peaceful way to experience Venice after a busy day of sightseeing. 

7. Immerse Yourself in the Peggy Guggenheim Collection for Modern Art Inspiration

Nearly all Europe tours include a visit to an art museum, and that naturally includes Venice. One of the best things to do in Venice for art lovers is to pay a visit to the world-renowned Peggy Guggenheim Collection, known for its exceptional display of modern art that showcases works of artists like Pollock, Kandinsky and Magritte. Because these works are housed in Guggenheim’s former home, the visit feels relaxed and personal. Another reason why it’s one of the best destinations for seniors is its well-maintained sculpture garden, which offers exceptional canal views that add to the atmosphere.

8. Experience Traditional Venetian Cuisine at Family-run Eateries

To truly understand a culture, you need to indulge in its flavors. Family-run eateries rely on recipes that have been passed down from generation to generation, incorporating local ingredients that the lagoon provides. This includes plenty of seafood risottos, simply grilled fish and seasonal vegetables. One of our expert travel tips is to try the local cicchetti or tapas-style snacks at a neighborhood bar, offering a perfect way to sample a little bit of everything.

9. Cruise the Venetian Lagoon

A lagoon cruise takes you beyond the main islands and reveals how Venice is tied to its natural surroundings. You’ll see smaller communities, quiet stretches of water and islands with their own histories, offering a nice counterbalance to the crowded city center.

10. Step Inside the Scuola Grande di San Rocco

One of the top things to do in Venice is to wander the Scuola Grande di San Rocco, a charitable confraternity where members hired Tintoretto to fill the interior with large-scale paintings. The rooms are covered from floor to ceiling, so the experience feels almost like stepping into a single, unified art piece. It’s one of the most impressive displays of Renaissance paintings in the city.

11. Visit the Jewish Ghetto and Its Cultural Legacy

As for things to do in Venice for history buffs, look no further than the Jewish Ghetto, which offers a thoughtful look at how Jewish life developed during the restrictions of the time. Visitors can discover synagogues that are modest on the outside but beautifully decorated inside, with guided tours that help explain the community’s history and contributions to the city.

12. Join a Hands-On Workshop with Local Artisans

An essential travel tip for older adults is to try a new hands-on experience. Consider attending a workshop led by a local artisan — perhaps glassblowing, mask-making, book-binding or paper marbling. You’ll learn the steps involved, understand why the craft matters to Venice and leave with something you helped create to fully connect with the culture beyond the sights and scenery.

Begin Your Learning Adventure with Road Scholar

Ready to experience the best things to do in Venice for yourself? Enroll with us to join a like-minded cohort of travelers to understand Venetian culture and traditions on a more personal level. Each experience on this list adds another layer to your understanding of the city’s past and present. Let these ideas serve as inspiration while offering plenty of room to follow your curiosity.