Exploring Venice's Grand Canal: A Guide to Its Attractions

The Grand Canal is the heart of Venice, bustling with activity and lined with architectural masterpieces. It's not just a waterway but a prime attraction itself, best experienced by boat to appreciate the grandeur of the palaces, or palazzi, that flank it.

These palaces span from the 12th to the 18th century, showcasing Venice's architectural evolution. To fully enjoy the canal and its attractions, consider booking a rental car in advance.

1. Touring the Grand Canal by Boat

Travel the Grand Canal via the vaporetto, Venice's water bus, on Line 1 for a comprehensive view of the palaces. Alternatively, take a guided motor boat tour for a closer look and historical insights. While gondolas offer a quintessential Venetian experience, they're better for quieter canals.

2. Santa Maria della Salute

The Baroque church of Santa Maria della Salute, built to commemorate the end of a plague, is a striking landmark with a massive dome and notable artworks, including Tintoretto's Marriage at Cana.

3. Peggy Guggenheim Collection

The museum showcases modern art, including works by Picasso, Dali, and Pollock. Visit the museum by stopping at either Santa Maria della Salute or Accademia vaporetto stops.

Official site: www.guggenheim-venice.it

4. Palazzo Corner della Ca' Grande

This Renaissance palace by Jacopo Sansovino is a testament to the grandeur of Venice's architecture.

5. Ponte dell'Accademia and the Academy of Fine Arts

The wooden Ponte dell'Accademia leads to the Accademia, housing a vast collection of Venetian art.

6. Palazzo Grassi

Palazzo Grassi, a blend of Baroque and Classical styles, hosts art exhibitions.

7. Ca' Rezzonico and the Museum of 18th-Century Venice

Ca' Rezzonico offers a glimpse into Rococo Venice with its Museum of 18th-century Venice.

8. Traghetti

Traghetti are gondolas used for crossing the Grand Canal at various points, offering a quick and affordable option.

9. Ca' Foscari

Ca' Foscari, a Late Gothic palace, stands out with its four floors and historical significance.

10. Ponte di Rialto (Rialto Bridge)

The iconic Rialto Bridge is a must-see, connecting the San Polo neighborhood with the rest of Venice.

11. Fondaco dei Tedeschi (German Commodity Exchange)

Once a hub for German merchants, the Fondaco dei Tedeschi now houses a shopping mall and a rooftop terrace with city views.

12. Ca' da Mosto

Ca' da Mosto is a significant 13th-century palace, showcasing early Venetian architecture.

13. Fish Market

The bustling fish market is a modern building in Gothic style, standing on thousands of wooden piles.

14. Ca' d'Oro

Ca' d'Oro is a Venetian Gothic masterpiece, now a museum with the Galleria Franchetti art collection.

15. Ca' Pesaro

Ca' Pesaro, home to modern art and Oriental art collections, is a striking example of Late Baroque architecture.

16. San Stae

The church of San Stae, with its Greek cross design, houses works by Tiepolo and Pellegrini.

17. Palazzo Vendramin-Calergi

Palazzo Vendramin-Calergi is a Renaissance gem, also known for its association with composer Richard Wagner.

18. Fondamenta Turchi and the Natural History Museum

Fondamenta Turchi, a Byzantine-Venetian style building, hosts the Natural History Museum.

19. Santa Maria di Nazareth

The Baroque church of Santa Maria di Nazareth, also known as Gli Scalzi, features ornate interiors and frescoes by Tiepolo.

20. Ponte della Costituzione (Constitution Bridge)

The modern Constitution Bridge by Santiago Calatrava connects the Grand Canal's end to the bus station and parking garage.

Tips: How to Make the Most of Your Tour of the Grand Canal

• Vaporetto Tickets: Validate your ticket or pass before boarding.
• Timing: Avoid rush hours for a more pleasant experience.
• At night: Enjoy the illuminated palaces for a different perspective.
• Best views: Stand outside on the vaporetto for unobstructed views.
• Direction: Ride both directions to see all the sights.