Canal Grande

Grand Canal

Majestic waterway, lined with a dazzling array of palaces.

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All the stops on line #1 between P.le Roma to San Marco

Waterbus Guide

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What makes it special

Venice's main 'street'

In a city built on water, canals replace streets. Venice has over 170 canals, but the Grand Canal, stretching 3.8 km (2.4 miles) long, 30-70m (98-230 ft) wide and averaging 4.5m (15 ft) deep, truly earns its name.

Only 4 bridges cross it

Even today, there are only 4 ways to cross the canal on foot, with the most famous being the Rialto Bridge.

Traghetto

Where bridges are absent, this larger gondola, rowed by two oarsmen, ferries you across the canal. Keep an eye out for traghetto signs and docks at places like Rialto Market or Santa Maria della Salute.

Magical at Night

After dark, a sense of mystery fills the air, with the interiors of some palaces lighting up, reminiscent of the lavish parties and intrigues that once unfolded within.

Canal Grande : As evening sets in, the area around Rialto Bridge becomes calm and almost magical

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Your experience here

Only here, in this unique setting, can you admire some of the world’s most exquisite palaces and architecture while simultaneously gliding past a vibrant array of boats.

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5 ways to cruise the Grand Canal

Take the #1 vaporetto

This waterbus travels the entire route with numerous stops on both banks making it the most budget-friendly option.

Waterbus Guide

Take a boat

If you want to avoid the often crowded vaporetto, a boat tour might be a better option.

Take a private boat

A private boat tour is recommended when you prefer to have the boat to yourselve(s).

Embrace tradition

If riding a gondola is already on your bucket list, this might be the perfect time to do it, though it won’t cover as much distance as the other three options.