The Enchanting Grand Canal of Venice
Experience the romantic charm of Venice's Grand Canal, a stunning waterway lined with historic architecture, vibrant markets, and unforgettable gondola rides.
The Grand Canal in Venice is a breathtaking waterway that serves as the heart of this historic city. Lined with stunning architecture, vibrant gondolas, and bustling markets, it's a must-visit destination for tourists seeking to experience the essence of Venetian culture and romance. Explore the picturesque views, indulge in local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the charm of this iconic canal.
A brief summary to Grand Canal
- Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, IT
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a quieter experience along the canal.
- Take a gondola ride at sunset for a romantic view of the city.
- Try the local cicchetti (small snacks) at nearby bacari for an authentic taste of Venetian cuisine.
- Consider purchasing a Venice Card for unlimited vaporetto rides, which can save you money.
- Don't forget your camera; the views are incredibly picturesque, especially around the Rialto Bridge.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, start by navigating to Venice via the A4 motorway. Once you reach the exit for Venice, follow the signs for 'Venezia' which will lead you over the Ponte della Libertà bridge into the city. Be aware that Venice is a car-free zone, so you will need to park your car in one of the designated parking garages. The most common parking options are 'Piazzale Roma' or 'Tronchetto'. Expect to pay around €25-€30 for a day of parking. From either parking area, you will need to walk to the nearest vaporetto (water bus) stop to continue your journey to the Grand Canal.
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Public Transportation - Train
If you are coming from nearby cities like Treviso or Padova, you can take a train to Venice Santa Lucia station. Once you arrive at the station, exit and head towards the Grand Canal, which is just a short walk away. Alternatively, you can take a vaporetto (water bus) from the train station directly to various stops along the Grand Canal, including the famous Rialto Bridge or St. Mark's Square. The vaporetto ticket costs about €7.50 for a single journey.
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Public Transportation - Vaporetto
For those already in Venice, the vaporetto is the best way to reach the Grand Canal. Locate the nearest vaporetto stop, which can typically be found near major attractions or your accommodation. Purchase a ticket from the ticket booth or vending machines (single tickets are €7.50). Board the vaporetto line 1 or line 2, which travels along the Grand Canal. The journey offers stunning views of the canals and historical buildings. Disembark at any stop along the Grand Canal to explore.
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Walking
If you are already in Venice, walking can be a delightful way to reach the Grand Canal. Depending on your starting point, simply follow signs pointing toward major landmarks such as the Rialto Bridge or St. Mark's Square. Use a map or a navigation app to guide you through the narrow streets and alleyways. The Grand Canal is centrally located, and you will likely find yourself at the canal within 15-30 minutes of walking from popular areas.
Discover more about Grand Canal
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Campo S. Rocco
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C. Crosera, 3771
0.3 km
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Foresteria Levi
0.3 km
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Campo Santa Margherita
0.4 km
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rio della Toletta
0.4 km
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Salizada San Pantalon
0.4 km
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Campo S. Vidal
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Venetian Experience
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Calle del Perdon - Knights Templar Cross
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Calle del Perdon
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Ponte dell'Accademia
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Sestiere San Marco
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Campo San Silvestro
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Palazzo Contarini dal Zaffo
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Lo's places
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Unmissable attractions to see
Campo San Tomà
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Carlo Goldoni's House
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Atelier Cuisine - Cooking School
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Ponte De La Dona Onesta
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Grassi Palace
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Theater of Palazzo Grassi
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Caduta di Edoardo
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Ponte San Polo
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Gondoles
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Free Walking tours of Venice
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Streaty - Food & Wine Tours in Venice
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Palazzo Nani Bernardo
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San Samuele, Venice
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Basilica S.Maria Gloriosa dei Frari
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Campo San Samuele
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Essential places to dine
Ristorante Wistèria
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Trattoria Dona Onesta
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Bacaro Vintido'
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Impronta
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La Loggia Bistro
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La Bottiglia
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Trattoria a San Polo
0.3 km
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Bakarò
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La Lanterna Da Gas
0.3 km
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Birraria La Corte
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Ristorante Oniga
0.4 km
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Osteria Alla Bifora
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Osteria ae Cravate
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La Bitta Venezia
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RistoPub Rossini
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Euro Venice
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Atelier Marega
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La Casa Di Loto
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La Bottega Dei Mascareri
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The Merchant Of Sand
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Ca' Foscari Shop
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Gnostic Tower Dorsoduro
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3D Concept
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La Mascaretta
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Biasin
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Penny Lane Shop Venezia
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Spazio MA
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Malefatte Venezia
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Il Graffio Venezia
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VeneziArt Shop
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bar Ai Nobili
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Bacarotto
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Dolce Vita Venezia
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L'archivio
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Il Mercante
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El Sbarlefo San Pantalon
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Il Vizietto
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Bar Spritz
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Chet Bar
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Do Draghi
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Bar Ai Artisti
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Margaret DuChamp
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Osteria Ai Pugni
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Wine Bar
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Tarnowska's American Bar
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