Top 20 Spots Beyond the Classics

13

The wealthiest of the seven confraternity buildings will impress with its breathtaking grand interiors, showcasing some of the most dramatic artworks in Venice — matched only by those of the Doge's Palace.

19

Escape the claustrophobia of crowds and narrow alleys into this expansive spiritual open space filled with art treasures and monumental mausoleums.

18

Island church offering stunning panoramic views of Venice from its bell tower.

7

Museum showcasing the extravagance of 18th-century Venetian life, set within a grand palace.

Step back in time to Venice's Age of Decadence with a visit to this opulent residence, one of the few open to the public.

14

Two distinct and captivating art museums, housed within a colossal canalside palace and accessible with a single ticket.

Even if modern art isn't to your taste and another grand palace feels like too much, the artifacts in the Oriental Museum are fascinating, with the collection considered one of the most important in Europe.

16

Walk Venice's monumental waterfront along the San Marco basin for unrivaled, postcard-perfect views of the city’s most iconic landmarks set against the glittering expanse of water.

30

This historic shipyard fueled Venice’s naval power for centuries and now offers an unforgettable adventure for boys of all ages — though everyone will be captivated by the site’s rich history and the giant sculpture of six pairs of hands.

6

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

10

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

20

Unusual Renaissance palace with theatrical frescoed halls adorned with intricate grotesques.

Get a sense of how the ultra-rich Venetians adorned their palazzos with out-of-the-ordinary decorations.

15

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.

13

The term “ghetto” originated right here, in the area where Jews were compelled to live in the 16th century. Even today, echoes of this incredible past are still palpable.

10

Located beside the very site where the famed Venetian composer once lived and worked, this waterfront church is best experienced during an evening concert, when an uplifting performance of The Four Seasons fills the church space.

11

Among the many treasures and curiosities of this Gothic-Renaissance church, none linger longer in the memory than its eerie, partially flooded crypt.

14

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.

11

Art museum documenting the evolution of Venetian art from the 13th to the 18th centuries.

Immerse yourself in one of Italy's finest art collections, featuring breathtaking canvases brimming with color, light and splendor.

10

Exquisite Gothic palace housing a curated art collection.

Step inside one of Venice’s most elegant palazzos, where direct, front-row views of Canal Grande are perfectly framed by graceful Gothic arches.

24

Contemporary art museum in a former customs building, right beside a prime vantage point.

Along with thought-provoking exhibitions in a beautifully modernized historic building, you’ll get to enjoy some of the finest views of the Venetian waterfront.

12

Only by stepping inside can you truly appreciate this half-millennium-old technological wonder, crowned by superb panoramic views from the upper terraces.

6

The city's liveliest square, buzzing with local energy and offering a great starting place for a night out.

Consider getting a city pass