Winding through the ancient city like a glittering ribbon, the Grand Canal offers unrivalled views of Venice’s most famous sights. The waterway, with its colourful river craft carrying eager visitors past the majestic buildings that line its banks, is one of the best ways to experience the romance of La Serenissima.Gondolas have been plying the waters of the Grand Canal for centuries, and this is still the traditional mode of transport along its four-kilometre stretch. If you prefer speed and convenience over history and heritage, the vaporettos (water buses) also offer regular services. Locals and others simply needing to get from A to B are more likely to stand for the short journey on a traghetto (ferry). But for the authentic Grand Canal experience, there’s no better way than lying back on a plump cushion and sipping a cooling drink as your very own gondolier sweeps you back in time.Look out for some of the most famous landmarks of the Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance periods, such as the Ca’ d’Oro palace, the Palazzo Dario and the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute. Pass under the Rialto Bridge, the oldest of the Grand Canal crossings and one of Venice’s architectural icons, before making up your mind about the controversial modern Constitution (or Calatrava) Bridge, which sharply divided opinion at its 2008 opening.Other ways to explore the Grand Canal include joining a guided tour with commentary, or hiring a private gondola to make your own agenda. Don’t be afraid to barter with the gondoliers over price – they expect it! Catch a glimpse of Venice as it was in Canaletto’s day at the annual Regata Storica on the first Sunday in September when the canal teems with beautifully decorated boats and the local dress code is strictly 16th century!
Grand Canal Tours and Activities
Visit Grand Canal
History & culture
See all 524 activitiesOpens in new tabVenetian Islands Half-Day Boat Tour: Murano, Burano & Torcello
Shopping & fashion
See all 15 activitiesOpens in new tabVenetian Islands Half-Day Boat Tour: Murano, Burano & Torcello
Classes & workshops
See all 55 activitiesOpens in new tabMurano Glass Factory Tour & Hands-On Workshop
Attractions
See all 14 activitiesOpens in new tabVenice: Grand Canal by Gondola with Commentary
Private & custom tours
See all 278 activitiesOpens in new tabMurano & Burano Islands Guided Small-Group Tour by Private Boat
Reviews of Grand Canal
5/5 - Excellent
Very crowded but great way to travel.
Popular places to visit
Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute
This huge, ornate church dedicated to the Virgin Mary is said to confer good health on all those who worship there.
Punta della Dogana
Explore contemporary and often controversial art in a magnificent building that was once the center of the city’s customs operations.
Museo Correr
You can study the exhibits at Museo Correr, a museum with a storied past, during your trip to Venice. Stroll along the marina or visit the stunning cathedral in the area.
Procuratie Nuove
A historic building looming over the arcades of St. Mark’s Square, this is a necessary stop during your visit to the area.
St Mark's Campanile
Enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views from the top of this landmark bell tower, where Galileo once made his name.
Teatro La Fenice
Tour the lavish interior of one of Italy's most prestigious music venues then enjoy an evening of classic or experimental opera.
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