Join us on a walking tour of Venice, where we'll explore the city's hidden gems and iconic landmarks! We begin with the vibrant Venice Carnival, where you’ll see stunning costumes and meet tourists from all over the world. We then head to St. Mark’s Square and its stunning Church, before experiencing the Festa delle Marie parade. From there, we take a peaceful Vaporetto ride on the Grand Canal at sunrise, offering breathtaking views of iconic spots like Rialto Bridge and the Guggenheim Museum. As we climb up St. Mark’s Terrace and the Campanile, we’ll capture the best panoramic vistas. We'll also take a deeper dive into the gondolas, their history, and the romantic canals. Finally, we explore the Doge’s Palace, visit the serene Murano Island, and end our tour with a magical night ride on the Grand Canal.

Carnival and Costumes

Walking to Venice and Carnival Posing

Venice during Carnival is like stepping into a living fairytale. As we walk toward the city, you’ll notice the vibrancy of its streets, filled with locals and visitors dressed in elaborate costumes. Performers stop to pose by the picturesque canals, creating postcard-perfect moments for all to capture. This centuries-old tradition, dating back to 1162, brings people from across the globe to experience its magic.

The masks are especially iconic, with each one handcrafted and symbolic of Venice’s artistic past. The festival is usually celebrated for two weeks in February, leading up to Shrove Tuesday. The city transforms into an open-air theater, where every alley feels alive with the spirit of the Carnival. But Venice’s charm doesn’t stop there—the weather often adds a touch of mystery. The city can be shrouded in fog during this time of year, casting an ethereal glow over its canals and bridges.

While the sights are beautiful, the reality of acqua alta can’t be ignored. High tides occasionally flood the streets, making it essential to navigate carefully or even invest in rubber boots! The 2019 flood was one of the worst the city had ever seen, but Carnival went on, proving Venice’s resilience. We’ll explore more of this festival’s wonders in St. Mark’s Square, where the heart of the celebration unfolds.

St. Mark’s Square, Tourists, and History

St. Mark’s Square, or Piazza San Marco, is the centerpiece of the Carnival. As we step into this grand space, we’re met with breathtaking views of the Basilica and the towering Campanile. Thousands of visitors crowd the square, drawn by its historic charm and the colorful costumes of Carnival participants. Some performers are dressed as Venetian nobles, their intricate gowns and masks a throwback to the 18th century.

Despite the crowds, the square holds an undeniable elegance. Fog often settles here, creating a surreal scene, while acqua alta occasionally turns the piazza into a shimmering lagoon. Even in these conditions, St. Mark’s remains unforgettable. The square has seen centuries of history, from the height of Venice’s maritime power to the challenges of modern flooding.

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Festa delle Marie

The Festa delle Marie is one of Venice’s grandest celebrations, held annually during Carnival to honor a unique historical tradition. Dating back to the 10th century, this festival originally celebrated the “Maries,” or twelve young Venetian brides, who were chosen each year to receive luxurious dowries as a gift from the Republic of Venice. Today, it has transformed into a vibrant parade featuring costumed participants, lavishly decorated floats, and endless excitement.

We’re lucky to be here on the waterfront as the event begins. Crowds gather early to claim the best spots, hoping to catch the Maries as they make their way along the parade route. Each Mary is dressed in a stunning gown inspired by Venetian history, with intricate details and rich fabrics. The parade starts along the waterfront of Riva degli Schiavoni, with the glistening lagoon providing a perfect backdrop for this colorful procession. From here, the Maries and performers head toward St. Mark’s Square, where the celebration reaches its peak.

As we follow the parade, the excitement is palpable. Traditional music fills the air, and the energy of the crowd is contagious. The Festa delle Marie isn’t just a reenactment—it’s a living celebration of Venetian culture and history. For locals, it’s a cherished reminder of their city’s rich heritage. For visitors, it’s a chance to experience the magic of Venice at its most festive.

While we’re here, it’s worth noting that the parade route offers plenty of great spots for photos. The sunlight reflecting off the water, the costumed Maries waving to the crowd, and the stunning architecture of Venice all combine for picture-perfect moments. As we continue, St. Mark’s Square comes alive with the celebration. The square, already famous for its grandeur, becomes the focal point of the Festa delle Marie, with performers and crowds creating a truly electric atmosphere.

This festival is an unmissable part of Carnival, drawing visitors from around the world. As we explore more of Venice, we’ll dive deeper into its cultural events and uncover the magic that makes this city so special.

Grand Canal Day

The Grand Canal, Venice’s most iconic waterway, is best explored as the city awakens. At sunrise, we board a vaporetto—a public water bus—and embark on a journey from the lagoon to the heart of Venice. The low morning sun casts golden hues over the water, painting the city in warm orange tones. It’s a perfect time to take in the beauty of the Venetian skyline before the day’s bustle begins.

To our right, the grand view of St. Mark’s Square welcomes us. The Campanile rises above the square, and the domes of St. Mark’s Basilica glow softly in the morning light. The Doge’s Palace, with its Gothic arches and intricate detailing, stands proudly by the waterfront, a testament to Venice’s glorious past. It’s a quiet moment before the crowds descend, and it feels like a private glimpse into the city’s soul.

As we continue, the charming Dorsoduro district comes into view. Known for its artistic vibe, this area is home to quiet streets and elegant palaces. At the edge of the district stands the Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute, a striking white church with a massive dome, built to thank the Virgin Mary for saving Venice from the plague. Its commanding presence at the canal entrance is a sight to behold.

To our left, the Peggy Guggenheim Collection appears. This modern art museum, housed in the unfinished Palazzo Venier dei Leoni, is a favorite for art enthusiasts. The museum’s collection includes works by Picasso, Pollock, and Kandinsky. While today we’re focused on the Grand Canal itself, the Guggenheim is a must-visit for those wanting to explore Venice’s contemporary side.

As the vaporetto glides onward, we near the Rialto Bridge, one of Venice’s most famous landmarks. Built in the late 16th century, its elegant stone arches have stood the test of time. The bustling area surrounding the bridge comes alive even in the early hours, with market stalls selling fresh produce, fish, and flowers. From the water, the view of the Rialto Bridge is simply stunning, framed by the vibrant life that unfolds around it.

The Grand Canal is more than just a waterway—it’s the main artery of Venice, a showcase of its historic splendor and daily life. Its palaces, bridges, and reflections on the water tell stories of centuries past, while its bustling vaporetti and gondolas keep the city’s traditions alive.

From Saint Mark’s Terrace

To reach the top of St. Mark’s Basilica, we’ll take the stairs leading up to the terrace, where the panoramic view of Venice awaits. The climb offers an intriguing perspective of the basilica’s architecture before stepping out onto the terrace. On a misty day, the view is almost otherworldly, as fog wraps the square and the surrounding buildings in a delicate embrace. It’s a reminder of how Venice’s beauty is enhanced by its occasional veils of mystery.

As we gaze toward St. Mark’s Square below, we see crowds gathered around its outdoor cafes, soaking in the atmosphere. The square is a hub of activity, with live music often playing from the stages set up for the Carnival or other events. These outdoor seating areas, popular with tourists, have been a part of Venice’s grand tradition since the 18th century. However, many consider the prices here to be steep—so it’s up to you whether you want to enjoy the view with a coffee in hand or just admire from afar.

Looking back at the square, it’s fascinating to think about its long history. During the Grand Tour era, St. Mark’s Square was one of the most important destinations for travelers exploring Europe. Today, it remains the heart of Venice, with the Correr Museum sitting at the opposite end of the square. This museum, housed in a magnificent neoclassical building, tells the story of Venice from its earliest days to the present.

As we stand on the terrace, taking in the sweeping views, we also notice the many open-air vendors selling Carnival mementos. From masks to costumes, these stalls offer a chance to take home a piece of the celebration. It’s an ideal spot to pick up a souvenir that captures the essence of Venice, with its colorful and rich cultural heritage.

Campanile Panorama

Now, we’re at the top of the Campanile, Venice’s towering bell tower. Good news: there’s an elevator, so the climb isn’t as strenuous as you might expect, but it’s still worth noting that the lines can be long, especially during peak tourist season. Once you’re up here, though, the view is absolutely rewarding. The wind may be brisk, but you’ll hardly notice it when you take in the expansive panorama of Venice spread out before you.

From this height, we see the famous lions of Venice—one perched atop the columns in Piazza San Marco, another overlooking the moored gondolas. These lions symbolize Venice’s power as a maritime republic, and their presence here is a proud reminder of the city’s history.

As we shift our gaze, the whole of Dorsoduro comes into view, with its charming canals and pastel-colored buildings. This area, home to the University of Venice and a variety of art galleries, offers some of the best views in the city. To the left, we spot the end of the Grand Canal, which winds its way through Venice before opening into the lagoon. The Giudecca Island lies beyond, a peaceful escape from the city’s crowds, known for its lovely waterfront cafes and art exhibitions.

Next, our attention is drawn to the majestic San Giorgio Maggiore Church. With its grand white façade and soaring bell tower, it stands on the small island across from St. Mark’s Square, adding a beautiful contrast to the city’s skyline. Behind it, we can see the Lido, Venice’s beach resort area, which offers a refreshing change from the city’s urban allure.

As we take in the full panorama, it’s amazing to think about Venice’s rich history. Founded over 1,500 years ago, this city of islands has managed to preserve its unique charm and history, with a population of just under 260,000 people today. The city’s narrow streets and canals, its extraordinary palaces, and grand squares have all been shaped by centuries of culture and politics.

In this final part of the view, we see the waterfront, where tourists’ boats and vaporetti are docked, ready to carry people to their next destination. This area is the same spot where the Festa delle Marie parade we saw earlier passed, so you can really get a sense of the connection between Venice’s rich history and its lively, modern-day celebrations.

Gondolas in the Canals

We begin our journey by observing the gondolas moored along the canals. The first thing you’ll notice is their unique shape—slender and slightly asymmetrical. This design allows the gondola to navigate the narrow, winding canals with ease. It’s said that each gondola is hand-crafted with great care and attention to detail. The main body of the boat is traditionally made from wood, primarily oak, while the gondola’s iconic black color is a result of a centuries-old decree that all gondolas must be painted black to prevent ostentatious displays of wealth. The exception is the decorative iron prow, which is shaped like a stylized "S" to represent the Grand Canal’s serpentine shape, with each gondola having its own unique balance of ornaments.

Originally used as a mode of transportation for the wealthy, the gondola now serves as both a romantic means of exploration and a living piece of Venice's history.

As we glide past, the gondoliers are seen skillfully maneuvering their boats with a single oar. Gondoliers are highly trained and must undergo years of rigorous training to become certified. They aren’t just boat drivers; they are also tour guides and storytellers, sharing the secrets and history of the canals as they navigate through the city. A gondola ride through Venice is more than just a leisurely float—it’s an immersion in the city’s atmosphere, where every turn holds a new piece of history.

The canals themselves, winding through the city like veins, are a spectacle of their own. As you travel along these water routes, you’ll see everything from small residential bridges to grand palaces lining the canals. The reflections of Venetian architecture on the water create a painter’s dream, capturing the delicate beauty of this floating city.

Gondola rides are a classic Venetian experience, but they can be pricey, especially during peak tourist season. Still, they offer an unparalleled view of the city, giving you a chance to explore Venice in a way few other activities can provide. It’s a chance to see the hidden corners of the city—quiet canals that can only be reached by boat, away from the crowds of Piazza San Marco and the Rialto Bridge.

As we move further, we come across a sight that highlights the contrast between tradition and modernity. There are street vendors on the canals, selling souvenirs that commemorate Venice’s Carnival. From masks to costume accessories, these vendors add a lively touch to the otherwise peaceful canals.

Doge's Palace

As we approach the magnificent Doge's Palace, we’re stepping into the heart of Venice’s political history. Upon entering, we’re immediately struck by the grandeur of the inner courtyard, where the palace’s intricate stonework and arched colonnades are showcased. It’s easy to imagine what this space must have looked like centuries ago when the Doge would have welcomed important dignitaries and made key political decisions.

This iconic palace, with its distinctive Gothic architecture, was once the residence of the Doge—the elected ruler of Venice. The Doge’s Palace, or Palazzo Ducale, stands as a symbol of Venice’s power and wealth during the height of its empire.

Inside, we discover the ornate rooms that once hosted Venice’s governing bodies. The Great Council Hall, with its towering ceilings and masterpieces by Tintoretto, is particularly awe-inspiring. The palace is filled with stunning artwork, providing a glimpse into the artistic flourishing of the Venetian Republic.

One of the highlights of a visit here is the Bridge of Sighs, which connects the palace to the prison. This bridge gets its name from the sighs of prisoners who would walk across it on their way to imprisonment, catching their final view of Venice before being confined. It’s a poignant reminder of Venice’s complex history and the fine line between power and justice.

Murano Island

As we take a vaporetto ride across the lagoon, we make our way to Murano Island, a quieter and less crowded retreat compared to the bustling streets of Venice. Known for its centuries-old glassmaking tradition, Murano is a place where time seems to slow down. The island is small, but its charm is undeniable, with colorful houses lining the canals and glass workshops dotted throughout.

While we might encounter some fog—something Venice is famous for—Murano still maintains its distinct character. The soft mist only adds to the magic of the island, making the vibrant glasswork in the shops stand out even more.

Murano is less tourist-heavy than Venice, making it the perfect spot for a peaceful escape. If you’re looking to enjoy a quiet afternoon, we recommend stopping by one of the waterfront cafes for an aperitivo, soaking in the island’s serene ambiance. It's an experience that feels like stepping into another world, far removed from the bustle of the main city.

Vaporetto Grand Canal Night

As night falls over Venice, the Grand Canal takes on an entirely different charm. Standing at the Ponte dell'Accademia, we watch as the lights begin to flicker across the canal, casting a soft glow on the waters. The buildings lining the Grand Canal are illuminated, their ornate facades glowing in the evening light. It’s a peaceful and almost cinematic moment, as the city transitions from the hustle and bustle of the day to the quiet of the night. The canal, once full of vaporetti and gondolas, now seems calm, with only the occasional boat passing by, creating ripples in the water.

As darkness falls, we make our way to Rialto Bridge, where we get an even more stunning view of the canal. From here, the lights from the bridges and the surrounding buildings reflect off the water, creating a magical atmosphere. The Rialto market area, usually bustling with activity, is now quieter, but the scene is still alive with energy. We take in the view from the bridge, marveling at the way the canal seems to glow, framed by the elegant arches of the Rialto. It’s a place that seems to capture the essence of Venice: romantic, timeless, and full of history.

We board the vaporetto for a late-night cruise along the Grand Canal. As the boat glides through the water, we’re treated to a different perspective of the city. The buildings on either side seem to loom above us, their windows reflecting the warm light from the street lamps. The soft hum of the boat’s engine is the only sound, and we feel as though we are floating through a dream.

The vaporetto ride offers an unparalleled view of Venice at night. We pass by iconic landmarks, including the grand Doge’s Palace and the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute. The city looks different in the soft moonlight, and the reflections on the water make everything appear almost surreal. The crowds of tourists are gone, and it’s just us, the quiet waters, and the gentle sway of the vaporetto. This peaceful moment gives us a chance to absorb the beauty of Venice without the usual rush and noise of daytime sightseeing.

As we move through the canals, we notice how the light changes as the night deepens. The buildings that looked so grand in daylight now appear more mysterious, with shadows playing on their facades. The gondolas, still moored along the canal, add to the romantic atmosphere. It’s a classic Venetian scene, one that feels timeless and eternal.

Though this experience can be magical, it’s also important to keep in mind that this type of late-night cruise, especially on a vaporetto, can be expensive. It’s a more relaxed way to see Venice compared to the daytime, when the vaporetti are crowded with commuters and tourists. But the serenity of the night, combined with the breathtaking views of the illuminated city, makes it worth the price for those seeking a quieter, more reflective Venice experience.

The vaporetto ride also offers a great opportunity for photography. The canal, the bridges, and the reflections create a stunning backdrop for photos. Whether you’re capturing the silhouette of the Rialto Bridge against the night sky or the soft light from a canal-side restaurant, every shot seems like a piece of art.

There’s also an option to take the vaporetto directly from Marco Polo Airport to the city center, adding an element of convenience to the experience. Whether you’re just arriving in Venice or departing, taking a late-night vaporetto ride gives you a unique opportunity to see the city in its most serene state.

To make the most of your vaporetto ride, be sure to validate your travel card before boarding. The cost of a single ride can be a bit pricey, but it’s a must-do experience for anyone looking to explore Venice from a different perspective. And for those who want to plan ahead, there’s a helpful PDF map available online, as well as information about the vaporetto routes and prices. https://avm.avmspa.it/it/content/consulta-le-mappe

But our journey doesn’t end here! We’d love to hear from you. Which stop was your favorite? Is there a particular moment that stood out to you? Let us know in the comments! And if you’re planning your own visit, we hope this guide has inspired you and made your trip easier to plan.

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