Located on St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco), this Byzantine church is the religious center of the city and is renowned for its golden mosaic ceiling. You can also go up the tallest bell tower in Venice, St. Mark’s Bell Tower, said to have been the place where Galileo Galilei tested his telescope.

This palace on St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco), dates back to the 10th century and was the seat of power for the Republic of Venice. Here you can see the infamous Doge’s Apartments, masterpieces by Tintoretto, and learn about the enduring mysteries surrounding the palace and its residents. A ticket also includes an entrance to Correr Civic Museum.

Often considered one of the most romantic bridges in the world, it has a much darker past. Prisoners used to walk over it (and “sigh”) after being interrogated in Doge’s Palace and taken to the nearby jail.

This art museum founded in the 18th century houses a wide collection of Venetian and Renaissance works. It includes pieces from Bellini, Titan, Tintoretto, and Canaletto.

While much in Venice has been overtaken by tourism, this produce and food market remains a favorite among locals and restaurateurs. Located along the Grand Canal (Canale Grande), you can also check out the Rialto Bridge (Ponte di Rialto) leading to the market.

In the 16th century, Jews in Venice were restricted to the Cannaregio District creating one of the first ghettos in Europe. Explore this neighborhood to honor those persecuted and celebrate the thriving community that remains today. You can take a guided tour to one of the five synagogues and visit the Jewish Museum of Venice.

Taking a gondola ride on Venice’s “Main Street” is a bucket list item for many travelers. If you want to stay on land, go to the Academy Bridge (Ponte dell 'Accademia) for an iconic view of the city.

This unassuming church is home to the world’s largest canvas painting, Martyrdom and Apotheosis of St Pantalon by Giovanni Antonio Fumiani.

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The elusive English artist left their mark in Venice as well. With the Church of San Pantalon (Chiesa di San Pantalon) at your back cross the San Pantalon Bridge (Ponte di San Pantalon) and turn right. Then you will see on a demolished palace with the “Migrant Child” portrait.

This 15th century spiral staircase is said to resemble the shell of a snail. Climb the staircase for city views.

This historically significant city is 40km by car or train from Venice. It is known for its beauty and charm and notable attractions including St. Anthony’s Basilica and the University of Padua, one of the world’s oldest universities and Galileo Galilei’s alma mater.

A less crowded and expensive alternative 40km to its famous neighbor, Treviso dubbed “Little Venice” is a walled city with its own picturesque canals, historic sites, and charming streets.

Given its proximity and accessibility (via water bus) from Venice, this scenic island has gained popularity. It is known for its colorful homes lining the canals and lace-making industry.

Further from Venice (120km), Verona is a destination in it of itself. Shakespeare fans can visit the famous balcony from Romeo and Juliet as well as Juliet’s (empty) tomb underneath a Franciscan monastery. The city’s center is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is home Verona Arena, a remarkably well-preserved amphitheater dating back to 30 AD that still hosts live events.

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Local experts warn there is not much to do on this small island after the brief glass-blowing demonstration.

Home to Rialto Market and a food lover’s dream, San Polo is the smallest of Venice’s six neighborhoods known as sestieres. Cross the Rialto Bridge to explore its charming streets with a (slightly) more relaxed vibe than San Marco next door.

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Young meets old in this hip neighborhood in the Southwestern corner of the city. It includes students from its many universities and some of the city’s most renowned art museums including the Gallerie dell’Accademia and Peggy Guggenheim Collection.

Many people will pass through Cannaregio when arriving at the Santa Lucia train station. But it deserves to be explored in its own right. In one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations, this neighborhood has maintained some of its local feel. It is also home to the Jewish Quarter, the oldest Jewish Ghetto in the world.