Walking Tour Venice Map

Welcome to Venice, the enchanting city built on water, known for its winding canals, historic architecture, and rich artistic heritage. This self-guided walking tour is designed to help you explore the most captivating Venice attractions at your own pace. From the grandeur of St. Mark's Square to the serenity of the Rialto Bridge, immerse yourself in the magic of this unique city.

Tour Map

Our walking tour covers approximately 5 kilometers and is estimated to take around 4-5 hours, not including time spent inside attractions. The route meanders through Venice's labyrinthine streets and picturesque canals, offering a blend of historical landmarks, architectural wonders, and charming local spots.

List of Attractions

1. St. Mark's Square (Piazza San Marco)
   • The heart of Venice, surrounded by stunning architecture.
2. St. Mark's Basilica (Basilica di San Marco)
   • A masterpiece of Byzantine architecture adorned with golden mosaics.
3. Doge's Palace (Palazzo Ducale)
   • The former residence of the Doge of Venice, showcasing Gothic style.
4. Bridge of Sighs (Ponte dei Sospiri)
   • An iconic bridge connecting the palace to the old prison.
5. Rialto Bridge (Ponte di Rialto)
   • The oldest and most famous bridge over the Grand Canal.
6. Grand Canal (Canal Grande)
   • The main waterway lined with historic buildings.
7. Campo Santa Maria Formosa
   • A lively square with a beautiful church and local cafes.
8. Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute
   • A stunning church built as a votive offering for the city's deliverance from the plague.
9. Academy Gallery (Gallerie dell'Accademia)
   • Home to Venetian art from the 14th to 18th centuries.
10. Peggy Guggenheim Collection
    • A modern art museum located in Peggy Guggenheim's former home.

Tour Details

1. St. Mark's Square (Piazza San Marco)

History & Facts: Known as "the drawing room of Europe," St. Mark's Square is Venice's largest and most important piazza. Surrounded by magnificent buildings like St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace, it's a hub of social and political activity.

Tips for Visiting:

• Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
• Activities: Enjoy a coffee at one of the historic cafes.
• Photography: Ideal spot for panoramic shots.

Next Stop: Adjacent to the square is St. Mark's Basilica.

2. St. Mark's Basilica (Basilica di San Marco)

History & Facts: Constructed in the 11th century, St. Mark's Basilica is a stunning example of Byzantine architecture. Its opulent design features gold mosaics and an array of treasures brought back from the Crusades.

Tips for Visiting:

• Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM; Sundays and holidays, 2:00 PM – 4:30 PM.
• Admission: Free entry to the basilica; additional fees for museum and terrace access.
• Dress Code: Shoulders and knees must be covered.

Next Stop: Right next door is the Doge's Palace.

3. Doge's Palace (Palazzo Ducale)

History & Facts: The Doge's Palace was the residence of the Doge, the supreme authority of the former Republic of Venice. Built in Venetian Gothic style, it houses grand chambers, artworks, and the infamous prison cells.

Tips for Visiting:

• Opening Hours: Daily from 8:30 AM to 7:00 PM.
• Tickets: €25 for adults; includes the Museo Correr and other sites.
• Highlights: Golden Staircase, Grand Council Chamber, and Bridge of Sighs.

Next Stop: Exit the palace and walk to the nearby Bridge of Sighs.

4. Bridge of Sighs (Ponte dei Sospiri)

History & Facts: Built in 1600, the Bridge of Sighs connected the interrogation rooms in the Doge's Palace to the prison. Legend says prisoners would sigh at their last view of Venice before imprisonment.

Tips for Visiting:

• Viewing Point: Best seen from Ponte della Paglia bridge.
• Photography: Early morning offers the best lighting.
• Tours: Access to the interior is included with Doge's Palace ticket.

Next Stop: A 10-minute walk through charming alleys to the Rialto Bridge.

5. Rialto Bridge (Ponte di Rialto)

History & Facts: The Rialto Bridge is the oldest of the four bridges spanning the Grand Canal. Completed in 1591, it's an architectural and engineering marvel of its time.

Tips for Visiting:

• Shops: Lined with boutiques selling jewelry and souvenirs.
• Viewpoint: Offers stunning views of the Grand Canal.
• Crowds: Can be busy; visit early or late for fewer people.

Next Stop: Stroll along the Grand Canal.

6. Grand Canal (Canal Grande)

History & Facts: The Grand Canal is Venice's main thoroughfare, approximately 3.8 km long. It's lined with over 170 buildings dating from the 13th to the 18th centuries.

Tips for Visiting:

• Vaporetto Ride: Consider taking a water bus for a different perspective.
• Gondola Ride: A romantic, albeit pricey, option.
• Photography: Endless opportunities along the canal.

Next Stop: A 15-minute walk to Campo Santa Maria Formosa.

7. Campo Santa Maria Formosa

History & Facts: A vibrant square named after the church of Santa Maria Formosa, which showcases Renaissance architecture. The campo is a local gathering spot.

Tips for Visiting:

• Cafes: Ideal place for a snack or coffee.
• Local Life: Experience everyday Venetian life.
• Architecture: Admire the mix of Gothic and Renaissance buildings.

Next Stop: A 20-minute walk or short vaporetto ride to Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute.

8. Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute

History & Facts: Built in the 17th century as a votive offering for deliverance from the plague, the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute stands at the entrance of the Grand Canal.

Tips for Visiting:

• Opening Hours: Daily from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM to 5:30 PM.
• Admission: Free entry.
• Artworks: Houses works by Titian and Tintoretto.

Next Stop: A 10-minute walk to the Academy Gallery.

9. Academy Gallery (Gallerie dell'Accademia)

History & Facts: The Academy Gallery is home to the most significant collection of Venetian art, featuring works by Bellini, Carpaccio, and Veronese.

Tips for Visiting:

• Opening Hours: Monday from 8:15 AM to 2:00 PM; Tuesday to Sunday from 8:15 AM to 7:15 PM.
• Tickets: €12 for adults.
• Highlights: Leonardo da Vinci's Vitruvian Man (occasionally on display).

Next Stop: A 5-minute walk to the Peggy Guggenheim Collection.

10. Peggy Guggenheim Collection

History & Facts: Located in Peggy Guggenheim's former home, the Palazzo Venier dei Leoni, this museum showcases an impressive collection of modern art, including works by Picasso, Pollock, and Dalí.

Tips for Visiting:

• Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM; closed on Tuesdays.
• Tickets: €15 for adults.
• Garden Cafe: Perfect spot to relax after the tour.

End of Tour: Conclude your self-guided walking tour of Venice by relaxing along the Grand Canal or exploring nearby artisan shops.

Practical Tips

• Best Time for the Tour:

  • Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September to October) offer mild weather and fewer tourists.
  • Early Morning: Start early to enjoy attractions with fewer crowds.

• What to Bring:

  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Water bottle
  • Sunscreen and hat
  • Map or GPS-enabled device

• Public Transportation:

  • Vaporetto (Water Bus): Main form of public transport; Line 1 and Line 2 cover the Grand Canal.
  • Tickets: €7.50 for a single journey; consider a day pass if planning multiple rides.

• Additional Recommendation: Enhance your experience by joining a free walking tour in Venice with GuruWalk, where local guides share insider stories and hidden gems.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does the self-guided walking tour of Venice take?

The tour covers approximately 5 kilometers and typically takes 4-5 hours, depending on how much time you spend at each attraction.

2. Are the attractions open every day?

Most attractions are open daily, but opening hours can vary. It's advisable to check the official websites for the most up-to-date information.

3. Is Venice suitable for walking tours given its canals and bridges?

Yes, Venice is best explored on foot. While there are numerous bridges and some steps, the distances are short, and the walkways are well-marked.

4. Can I use public transportation if I get tired of walking?

Absolutely! The vaporetto (water bus) is a convenient option to navigate the canals and reach different parts of the city.