Venice Self Guided Walking Tour – Discover the Floating City

Explore three Venetian icons: St. Mark's Campanile, the city's tallest structure; Torre Dell'Orologio, a mechanical marvel; and St. Mark's Basilica, the opulent "Gold Church". Discover their rich history and architectural splendor.

Explore the Carta Gate, Doge's Palace, and Piazzetta San Marco. Admire Gothic architecture, symbols of Venetian power, and historic columns. Discover the intricate details and legends behind these iconic Venetian landmarks.

Discover the Bridge of Sighs, a poignant symbol of Venice's past. Imagine prisoners' last glimpses of freedom through its small windows. Then, venture into the narrow Calle de Fabbri, embracing Venice's maze-like charm.

Explore Calle dei Fabbri, once home to Venice's locksmiths. Walk the narrow streets and cross Ponte Tron, experiencing the city's intricate network of bridges and canals that have shaped Venetian life for centuries.

Pause at Ponte Tron, a popular yet charming spot near St. Mark's Square. Admire Venetian engineering and watch gondolas navigate narrow canals. Experience a perfect blend of history, romance, and everyday Venetian life.

Cross Ponte dei Fuseri, one of Venice's 400 bridges. Experience the transition from tourist hotspots to authentic neighborhoods. Follow winding streets to discover Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo, a hidden architectural gem.

Discover Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo, home to a unique spiral staircase resembling a snail shell. Climb for panoramic views of Venice. Explore its rich history, from noble families to cinematic fame and astronomical discoveries.

Explore Corte Teatro and Teatro Goldoni's rich history. Once a private opera house, it transformed Venice's entertainment scene. Today, it hosts modern performances, blending past and present in this charming Venetian square.

The Grand Canal, once a narrow branch of the Brenta River, evolved into Venice's main street, lined with boats. Rich families built grand houses, creating a stunning architectural display. Today, 170 historic buildings tell its story.

Palazzo Bembo, a stunning red 15th-century Venetian Gothic building, once housed the influential Bembo family. Pietro Bembo, a key scholar, revolutionized music. Now, it serves as a vibrant exhibition space during the Venice Biennale, blending history with modern art.

The Rialto Bridge, Venice's oldest canal bridge, was built in 1551, replacing a wooden one from 1173. Its iconic arch allows ships to pass. Lined with shops, it offers stunning Grand Canal views, rich in history.

Chiesa di San Giacomo di Rialto, Venice's oldest church from 421, features a charmingly inaccurate 15th-century clock. Located in the historic bankers' district, it highlights Venice's rich history.

The Mercado di Rialto, Venice's heart since 1097, is where locals buy fresh food daily, fostering relationships and tradition. Under colorful awnings, find fruits, veggies, and the historic Pescheria fish hall. Despite threats, locals preserved this vibrant market, a living piece of Venetian culture.

Embark on a Venetian adventure with a Traghetto ride at Gondola Traghetto di Santa Sofia. For €2, cross the Grand Canal, experiencing centuries-old tradition and stunning views of Ca' d'Oro palace from the water. Sit back, relax, and soak in authentic Venetian charm.

Dating to the 15th century, Ponte Chiodo is one of Venice's two railings-free bridges, preserving its historical charm amid modern surroundings.

On your left stands the Scuola Grande di Santa Maria della Misericordia, a historic institution dating back to Venice's 13th century. Designed by Jacopo Sansovino in 1532, it blends classical Roman influence with Venetian grandeur. Today, it serves as a gallery and event space, preserving 16th-century architecture.

Casa del Tintoretto, Tintoretto's home from 1574 to 1594, where his bold art shaped Venice's Renaissance.

Campo dei Mori features statues of the defiant Mori brothers, 13th-century merchants who criticized Venice's government, immortalized in stone.

Welcome to the Church of Madonna dell'Orto, a serene haven in Venice. Built in the 14th century for the Humiliati order, it boasts stunning Gothic architecture and houses masterpieces by Tintoretto. Explore its quiet cloisters and rich history, a hidden gem in Venice's artistic legacy.

Welcome to Ghetto Nuovo, a historic enclave in Venice. Established in 1509 for Jewish refugees, it's a testament to resilience amid persecution. Explore its narrow streets and reflect on its role in preserving Jewish culture through centuries of challenges, including World War II.

Welcome to Panificio Giovanni Volpe, Venice's cherished kosher bakery. Indulge in traditional Venetian sweets and Jewish delicacies, each offering a taste of cultural fusion and centuries-old heritage. Ask the bakers about their specialties to uncover the rich stories behind each treat. After enjoying your pastry, our journey continues to Santa Croce via the impressive Guglie Bridge.

Built in 1580 to replace a wooden predecessor, Guglie Bridge's stone structure and distinctive spires stand as a testament to Venice's history.

Chiesa dei Santi Geremia e Lucia, rebuilt in 1753, houses Saint Lucy's relics, drawing pilgrims seeking healing from eye ailments.

Scalzi Bridge, completed in 1934, named after nearby Carmelite monks ('Scalzi' means 'barefoot'). Its modern design contrasts Venice's historic bridges.

Giardini Papadopoli, Venice's green oasis since the 19th century. Formerly owned by the Papadopoli family, now a city park with diverse trees and serene views.

Discover Campo San Rocco, a hidden gem in Venice blending art, history, and local life. Admire colorful facades, elegant balconies, and the 14th-century Church of Santa Maria dei Miracoli with its stunning frescoes. It's a vibrant hub for art enthusiasts and a glimpse into everyday Venetian culture.

Step into Venice's heart at Basilica dei Frari. Titian's "The Assumption of the Virgin" and towering campanile await, marking a pinnacle of Renaissance art and Venetian culture.

Campo Santa Margherita pulsates with Venetian life. Historic houses, bustling cafes, and vibrant energy define this lively square. Take a break on the red benches and soak in the atmosphere, where past and present converge in Dorsoduro's charming district.

Experience Venice's vibrant history at Ponte dei Pugni, once a site of fierce fistfights between rival families. Today, it stands as a reminder of the city's colorful past. Next, enjoy aperitif time at Cantine del Vino già Schiavi in Dorsoduro.

Explore Calle Nuova Sant'Agnese, a hidden shopping gem in Venice. Discover authentic Venetian goods at local boutiques and souvenir shops. Support local businesses while finding unique mementos. Continue east towards Piscina Forner, then onto Fondamenta Salute for the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute.

Welcome to the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute. Entry fee: 4 euros. Admire its stunning white marble facade and enormous dome, a marvel of Venetian architecture on wooden piles in the lagoon. Built from 1631 after Venice survived the 1630 plague, it's a symbol of resilience.

Welcome to Punta della Dogana, where the Grand Canal meets the Giudecca Canal. Enjoy unique views of the Doge's Palace and Bell Tower with fewer crowds. This historic spot, used for customs since the 15th century, offers a panoramic snapshot of Venice's maritime past.