The Frari Basilica, located slightly off the beaten path, is perhaps the second most notable church to visit in Venice after Saint Mark's Basilica ("Basilica di San Marco"). Situated in a charming area with a great deal of character, it is rarely, if ever, assailed by visitors. However, the building itself is extraordinary and stands as a true monument to Venetian history and art.

Founded by the Franciscan order in the late 13th century, this gargantuan edifice is one of Venice's largest, with its brick bell tower being the second tallest after Saint Mark's. It is also one of the three Venetian churches to retain a Gothic appearance – rather plain on the outside, including the facade. Despite its deceptively unassuming "mountain of brick" exterior, the interior is truly astonishing.

Few buildings in Venice can rival the Frari in terms of housing multiple first-rate works by Titian. The renowned "Assumption" painting, unprecedented at the time, soars over the high altar. Another masterpiece by Titian displayed here is the "Madonna di Ca' Pésaro" – equally innovative in the placement of Virgin Mary's figure away from the center of the composition.

Alongside these and other paintings by Vivarini and Bellini, the church is also adorned with Donatello's wooden statue of Saint John the Baptist, a beautiful 15th-century choir, and an abundance of extravagant tombs. On the right-hand side of the nave, you'll find a 19th-century monument marking the grave of Titian. The esteemed artist passed away in 1576, aged nearly 90, due to the plague. Such was his high regard that Titian was the only plague victim allowed a church burial during the outbreak. On the opposite side, there is a marble pyramid – the mausoleum of sculptor Antonio Canova, erected by his students – and a rather controversial, if not grotesque, tomb of Doge Giovanni Pésaro, a monumental composition supported by gigantic Moors and featuring decomposing bodies among other figures.

To delve deeper into the artworks, consider picking up a guidebook or a free pamphlet by the ticket office as an aid.

Tip:
Please dress modestly (covers provided).

Paris may have its Champs-Elysées, New York City its 5th Avenue, Rome its Via del Corso – but Venice, for uniqueness, tops them all with its Grand Canal ("Canal Grande"). This winding waterway, resembling an inverted S shape, traverses the city and is spanned by four bridges. Along its banks stand nearly 200 palaces, many of which were constructed between the 13th and 18th centuries. The grand aquatic thoroughfare is a bustling passage for motorboats, vaporetti (water buses), and the iconic gondolas.

Some of the most impressive buildings along the Grand Canal have been transformed into galleries and museums. Reflecting the Venetian Gothic architectural style, these structures were intended to showcase the opulence and artistic achievements of the Republic of Venice, with noble Venetian families having spared no expense in displaying their wealth. As most of these palaces stand directly on the water without walkways, the only way to appreciate their facades is from a boat, allowing for a journey free of potholes, traffic congestion, and traffic lights—quite literally the best mode to travel anyway!....

Stretching nearly four kilometers (or 2.5 miles) in length, the Grand Canal varies in width between 30 and 70 meters; it is, however, surprisingly shallow, with depths rarely exceeding 5 meters (16.5 feet).

The best way to explore the canal is by boarding vaporetto no. 1; though you'll have to be prepared to navigate the crowd and secure a seat anywhere on the exterior. The most coveted spots are at the bow, offering unobstructed views of the shimmering water.

If you'd rather rent a gondola for added romance, a word to the wise would be to schedule your ride during high tide so as to avoid encountering unsightly debris along the canal's edges, which low tide often exposes in detail. The gondoliers may even steer you into the quieter, narrower canals, where tranquility reigns and the only sounds you'll hear are the gentle lapping of water. In this serene atmosphere, you can fully appreciate the unique perspective offered by the gondola. In other words, if you're going to splurge on a tourist attraction, this is the one to choose.

It is also easy to get glimpses of the Grand Canal as you wander through the city's maze-like alleyways, granting you enchanting vistas of historic buildings, picturesque bridges, and the everyday rhythm of Venetian life.

Tip:
Investing in unlimited passes for 1 to 3 or 7 days for vaporettos is one of the wisest choices during your stay in Venice.

There are only four bridges in Venice spanning the Grand Canal, and if you explore the city on foot, you will inevitably find yourself crossing at least one of them. The Rialto Bridge, the oldest and certainly most renowned among the four, connects the Eastern and Western quarters of Venice, specifically the districts of San Marco ("Saint Mark") and San Polo ("Saint Paul").

Originally constructed of wood in the 12th century, it was later replaced by the current stone version four centuries later. The engineering solution employed seemed so audacious at the time that certain architects predicted its future ruin. However, the bridge has defied critics to become one of Venice's architectural marvels. Until the construction of the Accademia bridge in 1854, it remained the sole pedestrian crossing over the Grand Canal.

If you're comfortable navigating through the throngs of tourists bustling across the bridge, you'll be rewarded with spectacular views of the canal opening in both directions. Beyond the souvenir stalls are the centuries-old markets that traditionally showcase the abundance of fruits and vegetables harvested on the lagoon islands, as well as the fish freshly caught in the bordering Adriatic Sea. You may even catch sight of boats unloading their daily catch from the islands of Burano and Pellestrina.

The Rialto Bridge area also offers numerous shops and restaurants, usually on the pricier side, but masterfully tucked in so as not to disrupt the heritage exterior. Additionally, near the bridge, not to mention persuasive gondoliers who just happen to have a vacant gondola with your name on it, in case you're in for a boat ride.

Tip:
Evening is by far the best time to visit – much quieter and looks stunning.

The standout feature of this 16th-century Greek church is its leaning campanile, which appears as though it could tumble into the Rio dei Greci at any moment. Inside, you will find the "matroneo", a gallery where, following Greek Orthodox tradition, women would sit separately from the men. Take note of the iconostasis, a screen that separates the sanctuary from the nave, adorned with marble decorations and paintings by Michele Damasceno, a prominent artist from the 16th-century Cretan school. Despite immigrating to Italy and being influenced by Venetian painters like Tintoretto and Paolo Veronese, Damasceno remained strongly rooted in the Greek-Byzantine style. His paintings depict various saints, and on the architrave, you will find depictions of the Twelve Feasts.

Close by, the Scuola di San Nicolò dei Greci, redesigned in 1678, now serves as the Museum of Icons ("Museo delle Icone") of the Hellenic Institute, dedicated to Greek-Byzantine icons and Orthodox sacred vestments. It boasts a collection of 300 icons and numerous manuscripts, including a notable copy of the Alexander Romance, a narrative detailing the life and adventures of Alexander the Great.

Museum

Built on the foundations of a 9th-century fortress, this palace is unquestionably the finest secular European building of its time. Over the course of centuries, it has served many purposes, including Doge residence, seat of the Venetian government, court of law, civil office, and even a prison.

First built in the 14th century, much of the edifice was destroyed by fire in the 16th century, reducing to ashes most of the art treasures held inside. Some of the greatest Venetian masters of the time, such as Tintoretto, Veronese, Titian, Bellini, and Tiepolo, contributed to the restoration efforts, recreating gilded stucco, sculptures, frescoes, and canvases that returned the palace to its former glory.

Externally, the palace exhibits a blend of Byzantine and Gothic architectural styles, while the interior exudes Classical elements, leading art critic John Ruskin to proclaim it "the central building of the world". Inside, visitors are treated to a lavish display of furnishings, paintings, and elaborately adorned ceilings. Of notable grandeur is the Grand Council chamber, featuring Tintoretto's monumental "Paradise", reputedly the largest oil painting in the world. Equally magnificent is the Sala dello Scrutinio, or "Voting Hall," adorned with paintings depicting Venice's glorious past.

In stark contrast, the opposite side of the canal reveals the grim remnants of medieval justice—the prison cells. Linked to the outside world by the Bridge of Sighs ("Ponte dei Sospiri"), these cells serve as a haunting reminder of the horrors endured by prisoners who faced torture and potential death at the hands of the city's appointed state inquisitors. The term "sighs" refers to the lamentations of countless victims forced across the bridge.

To get the most of your time at the Doge's Palace, consider using the infrared audio guide available at the entrance, which provides a captivating narrative of the 1,000-year-old maritime republic of Venice and the intricacies of its former government.

***CASANOVA TOUR***
At the age of 30, on the fateful night of 25 July 1755, Casanova found himself arrested, accused of offending religion and common decency. Shockingly, he was sentenced to five years of imprisonment without even being granted a trial. His confinement took place in the Doge's Palace, where he was confined to a cell beneath the lead-covered roof. In the sweltering summer months, the oppressive heat turned his place of incarceration into an unbearable oven, further exacerbated by the torment of countless fleas infesting the premises.

Physically, Casanova was not far from the opulence of Venice and the seat of power, yet the psychological distance between his confinement and the world outside was immeasurable. Enduring 15 months of torment and despair, he finally hatched a daring plan to escape. Creating a hole in the ceiling, he ingeniously fashioned ropes from bed sheets and descended to freedom. This remarkable escape made Casanova the only person ever to break free from the prison of the Doge's Palace. Seeking sanctuary, he first sought refuge in Munich, then continued his journey to Strasbourg, eventually concluding his odyssey by coach to Paris, where he would start a new life.

Tip:
Make sure to book in advance for the guided "Secret Itinerary" tour – an exclusive experience grants access to otherwise restricted quarters and hidden passageways, including the Doge's private chambers, the interrogation rooms where prisoners were questioned, and the two cells once occupied by Casanova.

By far, the main draw for tourists visiting Venice is Saint Mark's Basilica. Its construction dates back to 832 AD when it was built to house the remains of Saint Mark, the city's patron saint. Legend has it that the holy man's body was brought from Alexandria, Egypt, hidden in barrels of pork meat, which the Venetian merchants believed the Muslim guards would never touch. Upon arrival in the lagoon, Saint Mark was said to be greeted by an angel who proclaimed that his body would find rest in that place. This legend has inspired numerous works of art throughout the centuries.

Two hundred years later, a magnificent temple was erected on the foundations of an earlier church and consecrated when Saint Mark's body was laid to rest beneath the high altar. The new basilica was designed after the renowned Church of the Apostles in Constantinople. To enhance its splendor, the structure was adorned with marble and mosaics depicting scenes from the Old and New Testaments, as well as the lives of Christ, the Virgin Mary, and Saint Mark himself.

Over time, many of the mosaics were retouched or replaced as artistic tastes evolved and damaged mosaics needed restoration. As a result, the current mosaics represent a span of 800 years of artistic styles. Some mosaics reflect traditional Byzantine representations and stand as masterpieces of medieval art, while others were based on preparatory drawings by renowned Renaissance artists from Venice and Florence, such as Paolo Veronese, Tintoretto, Titian, Paolo Uccello, and Andrea del Castagno.

Andrea del Castagno, active at San Marco in the mid-15th century, introduced a sense of perspective largely achieved with architectural settings. One of his notable contributions is the mosaic in the Mascoli Chapel, depicting the "Dormition of the Virgin". Tintoretto, on the other hand, created the mosaic in the central nave depicting the "Presentation of Jesus at the Temple" in the 16th century, while Titian designed and executed the mosaic decoration of the Sacristy vault between 1524 and 1530, depicting Old Testament prophets.

Inside the basilica, there are additional spots that can be visited for a separate fee, including the Golden Altar, the Museum, the Treasury, and the Crypt. It is highly recommended to pay for access to the first level, offering elevated views of the interior and the square outside. Alternatively, consider taking a night tour when the basilica is closed to the public, allowing you to have the entire place to yourself.

Entry to the basilica is free, but for a small fee, you can skip the line and book a time slot.

Why You Should Visit:
To witness the exceptional blend of Byzantine and Western art, showcased through the grandeur of the mosaics and the richness of the 'treasure room', offering insights into the immense power and wealth of Venice during its golden era.

Tip:
The best time to visit is around midday when the golden mosaics adorning the vaults, walls, and cupolas are illuminated and at their most spectacular. The lights are only turned on for a limited time (11:30am-12:30pm), so be sure to plan your visit accordingly to witness and appreciate the mosaics at their best.

No visit to Venice – not even a recurring one – is truly complete without setting foot on Saint Mark's Square, replete with the sense of history and art. Long before the arrival of tourists, it served as the religious, commercial, and political hub of the city, where the Venetian Republic reigned for centuries. The area was initially chosen by the city's founders to establish a citadel – the Doge's Palace (Palazzo Ducale) – complete with the city's most precious place of worship, Saint Mark's Basilica. Over the centuries, these two magnificent structures have shaped a public space so distinguished and majestic that no other square in Venice was deemed worthy of the title "piazza", thus leading to all other Venetian squares being called "campi" or "campielli."

Today, Saint Mark's Square remains the heart of the city, bustling with an abundance of luxurious hotels, elegant and exorbitant cafes, extravagant seafood offerings, and luxurious shops. Evenings here are particularly enchanting, with atmospheric lighting and live music setting a romantic mood. If you don't mind paying €15 for a cup of coffee or €25 for a cocktail, take your time savoring the experience while soaking in the ambiance. However, if these prices exceed your budget, venture into the side streets of the San Marco quarter, where there is plenty of activity and more affordable options for colorful boutiques, bars, and food outlets.

Otherwise, enjoy this famous square for what it is and keep breathing its air... in and out. For you're in Venice!!!

Tips:
If your schedule allows, consider arriving in the late afternoon as it gets darker. This time offers a charming and romantic atmosphere with fewer crowds. During the day, you may come across stalls selling souvenirs, bags (including knock-offs), and other items at surprisingly reasonable prices.
Another piece of advice: if you plan to take a gondola ride, avoid the gondolas moored by the square. Seek out those located outside the main tourist areas to experience the side-canal views that photograph much better and provide a more romantic overall experience.

In a square filled with iconic Venetian buildings, this remarkable Renaissance clock tower holds its own. Its base has always been a favored meeting point for Venetians, as it marks the entrance to the ancient Merceria, one of the busiest streets in Venice, now hosting both upscale boutiques and souvenir shops.

The clock itself has served as the official timekeeper of Venice since 1858. Notably, it not only tells the time but also aids the astrologer by aligning zodiac signs with the position of the sun.

Above the clock's face, against a backdrop of golden stars, you can see the winged lion of Saint Mark, a symbol of Venice found practically everywhere around the city. Beneath the lion, a statue of the Virgin Mary and Baby Jesus appears to watch over Saint Mark's Square.

The two figures striking the bell at the very top of the clock tower are among the most peculiar characters in Venice. Originally depicted as two shepherds, over time the bronze statues darkened, earning them the nickname "Moors".

If you decide to climb the tower, it is advisable to book a tour. Two English-language tours are conducted daily, with each limited to only 12 participants. During the tour, you will have the opportunity to observe the clock mechanism and other intriguing elements within the tower, including a secret door, as you ascend to the top, where you can marvel at the view of Saint Mark's Square below.

Venturing beyond the flashy, tourist-oriented items that saturate the streets of Venice, one can discover the authentic essence of Venetian culture through the vibrant world of masks. If you seek the epitome of quality and craftsmanship, look no further than La Pietra Filosofale ("The Philosopher's Stone"), a hidden gem run by the elusive mask maker Carlo Setti. Despite his somewhat enigmatic demeanor, the maestro is remarkably amiable, brimming with knowledge and passion for his art, and even crafts masks right before your eyes at the counter.

While the unassuming exterior of his charming little shop may not command attention, do not be deceived, as this is where the true magic happens. Within its walls, a plethora of masks, meticulously crafted using genuine leather and papier-mâché in the traditional manner, adorn the shelves. These remarkable creations are often embellished with herbs and grasses, as they are frequently utilized in theatrical productions.

Having honed his skills through years of work in the theater and puppetry realms, Carlo Setti has mastered the art of creating masks that immortalize famous personalities or embody the traditional spirit of the Venetian Carnival. Through word of mouth among the theater community, clients from around the world flock to his workshop on a regular basis. Each mask is custom-made, resulting in truly unique pieces of artistry. It's worth noting that all displayed items are available for purchase, allowing visitors to bring a piece of Venetian magic home with them.

A visit to Ca' Rezzonico offers a unique opportunity to explore one of the most splendid palaces on the Grand Canal. Impeccably restored, the building houses a fascinating collection of 18th-century art, including paintings by Tiepolo and Tintoretto, exquisite tapestries, porcelain, and period furnishings. In fact, the palace was specifically acquired to house this collection and, as such, its contents are in perfect harmony with the outside appearance that is rarely seen elsewhere.

Upon entering, you will be greeted by the grand Ballroom adorned with chandeliers and ceiling paintings that create a genuine 3D effect. As you continue through the palace, you'll encounter a series of lavishly embellished rooms that lead to the Throne Hall, where Tiepolo's allegorical ceilings take center stage. From the first floor balcony, you can enjoy a view of the Grand Canal, reminiscent of the privilege once enjoyed by the palace's aristocratic residents in the 18th century.

The low-ceiling 3rd and 4th floors house a collection of Venetian art from the 15th century, donated by a private collector. However, the main highlight of these floors is the pharmacy – a sequence of wood-paneled rooms heavily stocked with glass bottles and ceramic jars. Complementing this is a tremendous view opening to the rooftops of Venice below.

Neither large nor small, and not too crowded either, Ca' Rezzonico is a wonderful place to visit after you've had your share of Venice's main highlights and developed a taste for the opulent lifestyle enjoyed by the local high society of yesteryear. Advance tickets can be purchased from the official website.

Tip:
The on-site audio guide is quite good, much as the bookshop and terraced cafe directly facing onto the Grand Canal. Further to that, there's a quiet little side garden free to walk in with some seats in the shade that you may want to use for a welcome break after long hours of walking around Venice.

The religious fraternity ("scuola") of Saint Roch was set up in Venice in 1478. Seven years later, the saint's remains were brought from Germany, resulting in a surge of donations so great that in 1489, the fraternity attained the status of a "Scuola Grande". In 1527, the city was struck by a plague outbreak, causing the scuola's revenue to skyrocket as people desperately sought Saint Roch's protection from the disease. The funds generated eventually financed the construction of the current building, complete with the remarkable paintings inside.

Indeed, no other Venetian fraternity is as lavishly decorated as this one. The artist responsible for its decoration is Venice's own 16th-century painter, Tintoretto. Born Jacopo Robusti, he acquired his nickname, which means "little dyer" or "dyer's boy", due to his father's profession as a dyer ("tintore"). Also known as Il Furioso ("The Furious") for his phenomenal energy in painting, Tintoretto was both admired and criticized by his contemporaries for the unprecedented boldness of his brushwork and his incredible speed. Nonetheless, it took him three decades to complete this project, starting at the age of 46 and continuing until his death in 1594 at the age of 76.

During this time, Tintoretto created over 50 epic canvases for the walls and ceilings of the Scuola Grande, earning it high praise from critics as "one of the three most precious buildings in Italy" due to its overwhelming impact. While the Tintoretto cycle begins with the "Annunciation" in the lower room, to truly appreciate his artistic progression, it is best to start in the smaller room on the upper floor, known as the Sala dell'Albergo, which houses the "Crucifixion" painting, showcasing the full magnitude of Tintoretto's mastery.

Other notable highlights include the New Testament scenes in the main upper hall, which defy conventions of perspective, lighting, and color—a testament to Tintoretto's relentless inventiveness that has few parallels in Western art. Despite being in his late 60s when he painted these scenes, they are considered some of his finest creations.

Why You Should Visit:
Rarely busy or crowded, offering a peaceful oasis of culture and Venetian history.
Photos do not do justice to the overwhelming experience of seeing it in person.

Tip:
Don't forget to pick up an audio guide since there are no descriptions available.
Dress warmly as it can get quite cold inside, and don't forget to bring your camera.
Take advantage of the mirrors in the chapter room to study the ceiling art without straining your neck.