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Canal Grande

A Parade of Palaces on Water

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

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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 La 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.

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

Discover more about Grand Canal through 30 photos with explanations.

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What to expect here

Admire exquisite architecture and grand palaces as you glide through Venice's iconic waterway.
Pause on a quiet pontoon and watch the vibrant parade of boats - it's surprisingly soothing.
Catch a bird's-eye view from La Salute or Ca' d'Oro.

Start your Grand Canal cruise

Venice's main waterway isn't just a thoroughfare - it's an experience.

From vaporettos to gondolas, here are five memorable ways to navigate 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 tour

The vaporetto is often crowded, so if you want to enjoy the cruise without the hustle, a one-hour tour on a spacious and comfortable boat is definitely a better choice.

Plus, you'll get expert commentary from an English-speaking guide as you glide past the most iconic sights.

Take a private boat

Elevate your boat tour to the pinnacle of comfort and privacy with a private cruise, where you can truly enjoy having the vessel all to yourself.

Accompanied by a knowledgeable expert guide, glide gracefully along the Grand Canal and savor the sights at your own leisurely pace.

Embrace tradition with a gondola ride

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 previous options.