“If I had to choose another city in the world where I should live, it would be Venice.” - This quote was once said by the famous writer Ernest Hemingway. And indeed: Venice is not just a city, but a way of life. The lagoon city, with its countless canals, magnificent palaces, and mysterious alleys, has fascinated visitors from all over the world for centuries. Once one of the most powerful trading cities in Europe, Venice is now a unique open-air museum that invites you to dream. But is the city really just a backdrop for tourists? Or is there something more beneath the surface?

• A city without cars – Transportation only on foot or with the Vaporetto (water bus).
• Impressive architecture – Gothic palaces, magnificent churches, and narrow streets.
• The Grand Canal – The main street of the city, but made of water.
• Secret neighborhoods away from the tourist crowds – Discover the real Venetian culture.
• Unmatched atmosphere – Between history, art, and Dolce Vita.

• Population: Approximately 250,000 (of which only about 50,000 are in the old town)
• Islands of the Lagoon: Over 100, including Murano, Burano, and Torcello
• Bridges: 435 – the most famous are the Rialto Bridge and the Bridge of Sighs
• Canals: About 150, the most famous is the Grand Canal
• Foundation: 421 AD – legend has it that Venice was founded on March 25
• Tallest Building: The Campanile di San Marco at 98.6 meters
• Annual Tourists: Over 20 million
• Gondolas in the City: About 400 – there were over 10,000 in the past
• Venetian Republic: Lasted nearly 1,100 years, from 697 to 1797
• Unique Postal System: Letters are delivered by boat or on foot

Venice emerged out of necessity. In the 5th century, people fled from the invasions of Germanic tribes into the marshy lagoon of the Adriatic. There, they built the first wooden stilt houses that provided protection. Over the years, fortified island cities developed from these provisional settlements.

The city began to focus on trade. Due to its favorable location, it became an important hub between Europe and the Orient. Soon, Venice controlled large parts of Mediterranean trade.

The Golden Age – Venice as the Most Powerful Trading Power

Between the 12th and 16th centuries, Venice was one of the richest cities in the world. The Venetian fleet dominated the Adriatic, and merchants brought exotic goods from the East. This was the time when impressive buildings such as the Doge's Palace, St. Mark's Basilica, and the Rialto Bridge were constructed.

The Decline and the Modern City

In 1797, Venice fell to Napoleon and later to Austria. In the 19th century, the city lost its economic significance but remained a cultural center. Today, Venice primarily lives from tourism but simultaneously struggles with challenges such as flooding and declining population numbers.

Venice is divided into six historic districts (Sestieri). Each of them has its own character:

District	Famous for?
San Marco	Center with St. Mark's Square, St. Mark's Basilica, Doge's Palace
San Polo	Rialto Bridge, traditional markets
Dorsoduro	Artist district with Gallerie dell’Accademia
Cannaregio	Jewish Ghetto, authentic Venice
Castello	Arsenal, quieter residential area
Santa Croce	Less touristy, many hidden corners

 

Venice is full of impressive buildings and historical squares that have shaped the cityscape for centuries. Some are world-famous, while others are more hidden treasures. Here are the key landmarks that you should not miss during your visit:

• St. Mark's Square (Piazza San Marco) – The heart of Venice with the magnificent St. Mark's Basilica.
• St. Mark's Basilica (Basilica di San Marco) – A masterpiece of Byzantine architecture.
• Doge's Palace (Palazzo Ducale) – Former seat of the Venetian rulers.
• Rialto Bridge (Ponte di Rialto) – One of the oldest and most famous bridges in the city.
• Bridge of Sighs (Ponte dei Sospiri) – One of the most romantic bridges with a dark history.
• Grand Canal – The main waterway of Venice, lined with magnificent palaces.

St. Mark's Square – The Center of Venice

St. Mark's Square is the most famous square in the city and is considered Venice's "living room." Here, you will find some of the most significant buildings, including St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace. Napoleon is said to have remarked that St. Mark's Square is "the most beautiful salon in Europe."

St. Mark's Basilica – Golden Splendor with Byzantine Influences

St. Mark's Basilica impresses with its five domes, golden mosaics, and ornate columns. Originally built as a tomb for the Evangelist Mark, it has been further beautified over the centuries. The interior is overwhelming – especially the famous golden "Pala d’Oro" altar.

📝 Tip: Visit St. Mark's Basilica early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the tourist crowds.

The Bridge of Sighs – A Romantic Photo Opportunity with a Dark Past

The Bridge of Sighs connects the Doge's Palace with the old prison. The name comes from the legend that prisoners could take a last look at free Venice from here before disappearing behind bars forever. Today, it is one of the city's most popular photo spots.

A Perfect Route for Your Sightseeing Tour

To explore the most famous landmarks in a single day, follow this route:

1. Start at St. Mark's Square – It is pleasantly quiet here in the morning.
2. Visit St. Mark's Basilica – The mosaics inside are breathtaking.
3. Explore the Doge's Palace – A glimpse into Venice's past.
4. Walk over the Bridge of Sighs – And don't forget the famous photo!
5. Stroll along the Grand Canal – Admiring the palaces.
6. Wander over the Rialto Bridge – And enjoy the view.

📝 Tip: Those who want to discover Venice off the beaten path should explore the neighborhoods of Cannaregio or Castello.

Venice would be unimaginable without its canals. The city stretches across several islands in the Venetian lagoon, which protects it from the waves of the Adriatic Sea.

Waterway	Length	Special Feature
Canal Grande	3.8 km	Main artery of Venice
Lagoon of Venice	550 km²	Protects the city from the open sea
Rio di San Cassiano	700 m	One of the most picturesque small canals

The Canal Grande is the main street of Venice – but made of water. There are no cars here, only Vaporetto boats, gondolas, and water taxis.

🛥️ Tip: A ride on the Vaporetto line 1 at sunset is an affordable alternative to the expensive gondola ride!

Venice today primarily lives off tourism, but other sectors of the economy also play a role.

How many people live in Venice?

• Total population: approx. 250,000
• Population in the historic city center: Only about 50,000
• Number of tourists per year: Over 20 million
• Average age of residents: Over 50 years

Many Venetians are moving away because living in the city is expensive and complicated – rental prices are rising, and high water makes living difficult.

Which industries are important in Venice?

• Tourism – The most important sector, but also a challenge for the city.
• Glass art – Particularly famous is Murano glass, a centuries-old tradition.
• Shipbuilding – The historic Arsenale was once the largest shipyard in Europe.
• Fishing – Despite the tourists, there is still a traditional fishing economy.

Venice lives in the tension between its World Heritage status, mass tourism, and the efforts to keep the city livable for locals as well.

Venice is not only known for its architecture and history but also for its spectacular festivals. Some of these have centuries-old traditions and attract visitors from all over the world.

The Most Important Events in Venice

• Venice Carnival – One of the most famous festivals in the world with masked balls and parades.
• Biennale di Venezia – International art exhibition featuring contemporary art and architecture.
• Regata Storica – Historical boat parade and exciting rowing competitions on the Grand Canal.
• Festa del Redentore – A major fireworks festival in gratitude for the end of the plague in the 16th century.
• Venice Film Festival – One of the most important film festivals in the world, bringing stars to Venice.

An Overview of the Biggest Events in Venice

Event	Time Period	Info & Admission
Venice Carnival	February	Free access to the parades, masked balls are ticketed
Biennale di Venezia	Every two years (May–November)	Large art exhibition with admission tickets required
Festa del Redentore	Third weekend in July	Great fireworks over the lagoon, free of charge
Venice Film Festival	Late August/Early September	Tickets required for film screenings
Regata Storica	First Sunday in September	Spectacular boat races on the Grand Canal

The Carnival and the Regata Storica are particularly spectacular as they have deep historical roots. During the Carnival, the elaborate masks and magnificent costumes are the highlight, while the Regata Storica impresses with colorful boats and thrilling races.

Venice has countless highlights to offer. But what should you definitely do? Here are our best tips for excursions, romantic experiences, and activities for families or singles.

Five Destinations in Venice

1. Murano – The glassblowers' island, famous for its centuries-old craftsmanship.
2. Burano – Colorful houses and fine lace embroidery make this island unique.
3. Torcello – The oldest inhabited island in the lagoon with impressive churches.
4. Lido di Venezia – Perfect for a relaxing day at the beach.
5. Teatro La Fenice – One of the most beautiful opera houses in the world with a rich history.

Three Recommendations in Venice for Couples

1. Gondola ride at sunset – A classic yet unforgettable experience.
2. Dinner at Antiche Carampane restaurant – Romantic atmosphere with Venetian cuisine.
3. Stroll through Dorsoduro – Fewer tourists, quiet streets, and beautiful views.

Three Recommendations in Venice for Singles

1. Bar hopping in Cannaregio – Authentic wine bars and small venues to meet locals.
2. Art at the Peggy Guggenheim Collection – Modern art from Picasso to Pollock.
3. Vaporetto ride on the Grand Canal – Simply lean back and enjoy the panorama.

Three Recommendations in Venice for Families

1. Boat trip to Murano – Exciting for children to observe glassblowers at work.
2. Exploration tour in the Doge's Palace – Discover secrets and hidden rooms.
3. Picnic in the Gardens of Sant’Elena – A green oasis in the city.

Three Hotel Recommendations in Venice

1. Hotel Danieli – Luxurious 5-star hotel with views of the lagoon.
2. Ca’ Pisani Hotel – Stylish accommodation with modern design in Dorsoduro.
3. Hotel Antiche Figure – Charming boutique hotel right on the Grand Canal.

How to Get to Venice

• By Car: Venice is a car-free city. You can only drive to Piazzale Roma and park in one of the parking garages there. From there, you can continue with the Vaporetto or on foot.
• By Train: The main train station Santa Lucia is located directly on a canal. From here, you can take the Vaporetto to all parts of the city.
• By Plane: The Marco Polo Airport is about 13 km away. From there, you can take water taxis or buses to Venice.

Venice is one of the most fascinating cities in the world - a place that combines history, art, and romance. Despite the challenges the city faces, it remains a unique travel destination. Whether you stroll through the narrow alleys, ride on the Grand Canal, or explore the hidden neighborhoods - Venice enchants every visitor.