16 Quiet Spots to Escape the Crowds

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Behind the unassuming facade lies a breathtaking ceiling, alive with a vibrant celestial scene and a mesmerizing sense of depth.

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Get hands-on with Leonardo’s mechanical inventions and be inspired by his genius at this interactive museum, which also features high-res digital reproductions of his masterpieces.

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Veneto-Byzantine church with a history of aiding the less fortunate.

It's a beautiful and tranquil church, nestled away from the crowds in a characterful part of Dorsoduro.

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This was the three-decade 'workplace' of one of Venice’s greatest painters. His dramatic works, combined with the church’s serene atmosphere, create a captivating sense of peaceful harmony.

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Having fueled Venice’s naval power for centuries, this historic shipyard now offers hands-on exploration for everyone: enter a Cold War submarine, get close to the giant sculpture of six pairs of hands atop a dock, and discover the stories behind the city’s maritime legacy.

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Set sail through history in this fascinating five-floor museum packed with naval exhibits, model fleets, weaponry, and uniforms — plus a full ships pavilion in the legendary Arsenal.

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Napoleon's creation of the park marked Venice's first public green space, now a peaceful retreat offering sweeping lagoon views and serving as the heart of the Biennale art exhibition.

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Tranquil park with shaded pine trees, a playground and stunning views over the San Marco basin.

Escape the city's narrow streets and crowds to open, green expanses and witness one of the best sunsets.

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It’s okay to feel small inside this art-filled Gothic giant — the upside is that its vastness offers endless exploration.

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Boasting one of Venice’s most impressive marble facades, this former confraternity building now serves as the entrance to the city hospital — and fittingly houses a medical museum in its remarkable upper Chapter Hall.

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Often called a 'Renaissance jewelry box' for its exquisite polychrome marble panels, supposedly crafted from leftover marbles from St. Mark's Basilica.

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This graceful church, with its one-of-a-kind facade, preserves two of Tintoretto’s greatest works and marks his final resting place.

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Museum that transports you into the everyday world of Venetian nobility during the Republic’s golden age.

Be instantly transported to a bygone era with richly detailed decor, lavish historic garments and an interactive fragrance exhibition.

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Old church with magnificent Byzantine mosaics and a dragon myth.

You'll be welcomed by an elegant exterior and then mesmerized by the mosaics inside. Kids will ask countless questions about the fabled dragon.

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In the warm and inviting ambiance of Mariano Fortuny's former residence, the array of art is beyond words. With each display suggesting that the artistic work is still unfolding, you'll feel as though the artist could step into the room at any given moment, ready to continue his creative journey.

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The second-widest waterfront promenade in Venice is a soothing spot, perfect for soaking up the local atmosphere, watching the sunset with an aperitivo in hand, and easing into the evening.