GemmaVenice is one of those cities that instantly captures your imagination. Its winding canals, stunning architecture, and romantic bridges are iconic, yet the true magic lies beyond the usual tourist spots. From my own personal experience, the real charm of Venice reveals itself when you wander off the crowded paths and explore its hidden corners. In this guide, I’ll show you clever things to do in Venice that go beyond the typical sightseeing checklist—experiences you will truly love, that will make your visit unforgettable.
1. Discover the Hidden Courtyards of Dorsoduro
Dorsoduro is often overlooked by visitors rushing to Piazza San Marco, but it’s a neighborhood full of quiet charm. Its hidden courtyards and narrow alleyways are perfect for slow, immersive exploration. You can stumble upon small art galleries, cozy cafés, and artisan shops tucked behind unassuming doorways. Each courtyard has its own story, from centuries-old palaces to serene fountains where locals gather. Walking here, you feel like you’ve stepped into another world, far from the bustle of Venice’s main squares.
2. Visit the Libreria Acqua Alta
If you love books, Libreria Acqua Alta is a must-see. This quirky bookstore is famous for its creative storage solutions, using bathtubs, gondolas, and crates to protect books from the frequent flooding. From my own personal experience, it’s more than just a shop; it’s a living work of art. You can climb stacks of books to reach hidden nooks, and the outdoor terrace offers a quiet spot to enjoy views of the canals. It’s a perfect mix of literature, creativity, and Venetian ingenuity.
3. Explore the Venetian Arsenal
Most visitors associate Venice with romance, canals, and art—but the city also has a fascinating maritime history. The Venetian Arsenal, a massive shipyard and armory, was once the heart of Venice’s naval power. Visiting it today, you’ll find historical buildings, old docks, and occasional exhibitions detailing shipbuilding techniques from the Renaissance. Walking through the Arsenal feels like stepping back in time, imagining the city’s rise as a maritime powerhouse.
4. Take a Boat Ride to San Michele Island
While Venice is full of crowded islands like Murano and Burano, San Michele offers a more contemplative experience. Known as the city’s cemetery island, it’s a serene place where you can explore historic graves, beautiful sculptures, and peaceful gardens. From my overall experience, it’s a place that makes you pause and reflect—a side of Venice that few tourists seek out but that leaves a lasting impression. The boat ride itself is quiet and scenic, offering unique views of the lagoon.
5. Wander Through the Jewish Ghetto
The Venetian Jewish Ghetto is rich with history and culture. Established in 1516, it was the first ghetto in the world. Walking through the narrow streets, you’ll discover synagogues, museums, and artisan shops that have been operating for centuries. The area has a unique atmosphere, combining historical significance with local life. Sampling kosher pastries or exploring small art galleries here gives you a glimpse of a side of Venice that many miss.
6. Attend a Local Cicchetti Crawl
Cicchetti are small Venetian tapas, and indulging in them is a cultural must. Skip the main tourist restaurants and head to a local bacaro (wine bar) for a cicchetti crawl. You can try traditional bites like fried cod, marinated seafood, or tiny meatballs paired with a glass of spritz or prosecco. From my own personal experience, wandering from one bacaro to another gives you a deeper sense of Venice’s culinary rhythm—eating like a local, not a tourist.
7. Discover the Hidden Gardens of Venice
Venice is famous for its canals, but few know about its hidden gardens. Many palaces and convents maintain private green spaces that are occasionally open to the public. For example, the Giardino dei Frutti near Campo Santa Margherita is a quiet oasis with fruit trees, flowers, and peaceful benches. Exploring these gardens feels like a secret adventure, providing a rare chance to breathe amidst the city’s dense architecture.
8. Experience the Lagoon by Kayak
Most visitors see Venice from a gondola, but kayaking offers a more adventurous perspective. Paddling through narrow canals and open lagoon waters, you can explore hidden corners of the city and its surrounding islands. From my overall experience, kayaking gives you an intimate understanding of Venice’s layout and waterways that no walking tour can match. You also encounter birds, small docks, and quiet neighborhoods that remain invisible to regular tourists.
9. Hunt for Murano’s Lesser-Known Studios
Murano is famous for its glass, but instead of sticking to the main workshops, seek out smaller studios where artisans craft unique pieces. These studios often allow visitors to watch the glassblowing process up close and even try a hand at creating a small item. It’s far less crowded and more personal than the large, commercialized shops. Experiencing Murano this way lets you appreciate the skill, patience, and creativity involved in Venetian glassmaking.
10. Discover the Art of Street Murals in Cannaregio
Cannaregio, one of Venice’s northern districts, has a vibrant street art scene. Here, you can find murals by contemporary artists covering hidden walls and alleys. From my own personal experience, wandering through Cannaregio feels like a modern treasure hunt. The mix of history and street art creates a dynamic contrast, showing that Venice is not only about old palaces but also a city alive with creative energy today.
11. Visit the Church of San Sebastiano
While most tourists flock to St. Mark’s Basilica, San Sebastiano offers an artistic feast without the crowds. Its interior is adorned with dramatic frescoes by Paolo Veronese, covering every wall and ceiling with vivid biblical scenes. Standing inside, you feel immersed in history and art simultaneously. From my overall experience, this church is a reminder that Venice’s artistic treasures are not just in the major landmarks—they’re everywhere if you take the time to look.
12. Explore Hidden Passageways and Secret Bridges
One of the simplest but most rewarding things to do in Venice is simply to wander. Beyond the main squares, countless hidden passageways and small bridges connect neighborhoods in surprising ways. From my own personal experience, getting lost here is part of the charm—every twist reveals new cafés, artisan shops, or quiet canals perfect for photography. Allow yourself to roam without a strict plan, and Venice reveals itself in ways no guidebook can predict.
Final Thoughts
Venice is a city that rewards curiosity. While the grand landmarks are beautiful, the real magic happens when you venture off the beaten path. Exploring hidden courtyards, secret gardens, and quiet neighborhoods allows you to experience the city as it truly is—layered, artistic, and alive. From my own personal experience, these 12 clever things to do will give you memories that last far beyond the gondola rides and selfies. Venice is waiting to be discovered, and the city’s hidden treasures are yours to explore.
I’m Gemma, a passionate lifestyle blogger sharing my creative world with you. Gemitaliano.com is my little corner of the internet, glad you’re here.