Venice

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Roads? Where you're going you don't need roads... but don't rule out a romantic gondola ride or a water taxi. Welcome to Venice, with its network of canals, rich history and composition of over 100 small islands in the Adriatic Sea.

One of the most popular features of this Northern Italy capital is the Grand Canal, once a major center of the Renaissance. Be sure to see the central square Piazza San Marco, where all can marvel at Byzantine mosaics, the Campanile bell and St. Mark’s Basilica.

Fine art, stunning architecture, white limestone bridges, moving about via watercraft... Venice is a singular experience and an astonishing masterpiece of civilization. Summer is the busiest time to visit, so plan accordingly. If you're looking for an unforgettable costume party, visit during Venice Carnival from the end of February to the beginning of March.

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St. Mark's Square

St. Mark's Square, or Piazza San Marco, is Venice's main public square. Go for the restaurants, stay for the night music!

Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute

Popularly known as just "The Salute," this baroque Catholic basilica's dome is a key part of the Venice skyline. Due to its history as a 17th century "plague church," it features art referencing the Black Death.

Gondola Rides

When in... Venice! An essential and scenic activity for anyone visiting this city of canals.

Transportation

To get to Venice from Marco Polo (VCE) airport take ACTV's bus number 5, running every 15-20 minutes. The bus takes passengers to the Piazzale Roma terminal in Venice's city center and takes about 25 minutes.

For getting around Venice other than walking, a vaporetto, or water taxi, is an affordable option.

Carnival of Venice

This yearly festival, which ends with Lent, is essentially a Mardi Gras celebration, and is famous for its enchanting costumes and masks. Book well in advance as this is one of Italy's most popular events!

Venice Night Trail

On 3/28/2026

The Venice Night Trail is a unique nighttime running event set in the enchanting city of Venice, Italy. Participants race through the city’s historic streets, crossing over 51 bridges and winding along picturesque canals, all illuminated under the night sky. The course offers a magical blend of athletic challenge and breathtaking scenery, showcasing Venice’s iconic architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Experience the thrill of running through one of the world’s most beautiful cities after dark—an unforgettable adventure for runners and travelers alike.

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Horst P. Horst. The Geometry of Grace

From 2/21/2026 - 7/5/2026

This major retrospective is devoted to the work of Horst P. Horst, showcasing a new perspective on his photography. The exhibition emphasizes the concept of geometry as a structural and spiritual order that connects centuries of art and thought. It invites visitors to rediscover how geometry and harmony form the basis of every art form and worldview.

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I Guardi di Calouste Gulbenkian

From 3/7/2026 - 6/8/2026

The exhibit features a selection of paintings by Francesco Guardi, the last great Venetian vedutista of the 18th century. It showcases some of his most sublime works, dating from 1770 to 1790, which reflect the artist's unique style and perspective of Venice. The collaboration between the Fondazione Musei Civici di Venezia and the Museu Calouste Gulbenkian allows visitors to explore the creative journey of this iconic artist.

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