GemmaVenice. The city of canals, gondolas, and endless Instagram photos. You probably already know the main attractions—the grandeur of St. Mark’s Basilica, the iconic Rialto Bridge, or a gondola ride through the Grand Canal. But here’s the thing: Venice is so much more than what you see in guidebooks and postcards. Wander away from the crowds, and you’ll find a city brimming with hidden treasures, quirky corners, and experiences that will make you fall in love with Venice in a way you never expected.
From my own personal experience, some of the most memorable moments in Venice weren’t in the crowded squares but tucked away in its quiet alleys, tiny canals, and little-known artisan shops. If you’re ready to explore the Venice that few tourists ever see, let me show you 12 clever things to do in Venice that are off the beaten path and that you truly need to see.
1. Discover the Libreria Acqua Alta
You’ve seen beautiful bookstores, but nothing prepares you for the Libreria Acqua Alta. This quirky bookstore is a labyrinth of stacks of books piled in bathtubs, gondolas, and old boats. Why? Because Venice floods occasionally, and this is the bookstore’s unique way to protect its books.
Wander through the nooks, climb staircases made of old encyclopedias, and peek at cats lounging on piles of literature. It’s chaotic, it’s whimsical, and it’s 100% Venetian. Plus, the view from the top is like a secret vantage point over the canals. You’ll truly love the unexpected charm here.
2. Explore the Hidden Gardens of Venice
Venice is all canals and historic buildings, right? Wrong. Hidden behind wrought-iron gates and modest doorways are secret gardens filled with flowers, fountains, and sculptures. Places like Giardino della Marinaressa or the garden of Palazzo Cavalli Franchetti feel like stepping into another world entirely.
Take your time wandering these peaceful oases. The quiet beauty of a Venetian garden is the perfect escape from the crowds. You might even stumble upon a small café tucked inside a garden—an utterly magical spot for an espresso break.
3. Wander Through the Dorsoduro Neighborhood
Skip the tourist-heavy San Marco and head to Dorsoduro. This area is artsy, charming, and full of hidden gems. Think art galleries, cozy trattorias, and canals lined with colorful houses.
While in Dorsoduro, check out the Peggy Guggenheim Collection if you want art with a twist, or simply enjoy wandering the streets with no plan at all. The atmosphere is relaxed, and you can see real Venetian life away from the throngs of tourists.
4. Take a Boat to San Giorgio Maggiore
Most visitors admire this island from afar, but climbing the bell tower of San Giorgio Maggiore is an experience worth the effort. From the top, you’ll get one of the most breathtaking panoramic views of Venice—without the crowds of the Campanile in St. Mark’s Square.
The island itself is calm and often overlooked, making it a peaceful retreat where you can truly appreciate Venice from a different perspective. Let me show you how I plan a quiet afternoon here: pack a picnic, stroll the gardens, and watch the sunset reflect off the lagoon.
5. Visit the Jewish Ghetto
Venice’s Jewish Ghetto is one of the oldest in Europe, yet it’s often overlooked by tourists. Walking its narrow streets, you’ll find synagogues, small museums, and charming cafés.
It’s a place rich with history and culture, and exploring it gives you a deeper understanding of Venice beyond the usual tourist experience. From my own personal experience, walking through these streets feels like traveling back in time while still soaking up the modern vibrancy of the city.
6. Check Out the Venetian Arsenal
The Venetian Arsenal is a massive shipyard that once made Venice a naval superpower. Today, it’s partially open to the public and offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s industrial past.
Exploring this area gives you a break from the typical tourist trail. You can see historic shipbuilding methods, massive gates, and sometimes even art installations in the space. It’s a mix of history and surprise—Venice at its most unexpected.
7. Go on a Cicchetti Crawl
Venice is famous for cicchetti, small plates of local food served in bars. But instead of going to touristy spots, try hopping from bar to bar in neighborhoods like Cannaregio or Santa Croce.
From my overall experience, some of the best cicchetti can be found in tiny, unassuming bacari, where locals go for a quick snack and a glass of wine. It’s a fun, interactive way to explore Venice through taste, and you might even make a few friendly connections along the way.
8. Discover Murano Beyond Glass Factories
Everyone knows Murano for its glass, but there’s more to the island than just shops selling decorative trinkets. Wander into less crowded areas, explore hidden canals, and watch artisans at work away from the tourist-packed showrooms.
You can even attend small workshops where you try glassblowing yourself. It’s hands-on, immersive, and you’ll leave with a unique understanding of a Venetian craft that has lasted centuries.
9. Explore Burano’s Colorful Streets
Burano is famous for its vibrant houses, but most visitors only scratch the surface. Take the time to walk its quieter alleys, chat with local lace-makers, and enjoy fresh seafood at a family-run restaurant.
From my personal experience, the charm of Burano lies in these little details—quiet streets, blooming flowers, and locals going about their day. The colors are stunning, but the true magic is in the authenticity.
10. Discover Venetian Street Art
Venice isn’t just historical—it’s also a canvas for modern creativity. Explore neighborhoods like Giudecca or parts of Cannaregio to find striking murals, playful graffiti, and art installations tucked in unexpected corners.
It’s a side of Venice you won’t see in guidebooks, and it’s perfect for those who love contemporary art in historic settings. Plus, hunting for street art is a fun, almost game-like way to see the city from a different perspective.
11. Attend a Local Event or Festival
Venice hosts dozens of local events beyond the Carnival. Think small film screenings, music performances, or regattas in hidden canals.
These experiences let you see the city as Venetians do, giving you insights into local traditions that most tourists never encounter. Based on my overall experience, joining even one local event can completely change how you see the city, making it feel alive and personal.
12. Get Lost Without a Map
Sometimes the best things to do in Venice aren’t planned. Wander aimlessly, cross bridges, duck into alleys, and explore tiny canals. Venice is a city made for wandering, and the hidden delights—cafés, artisan shops, secret viewpoints—are waiting for those who get lost on purpose.
From my own personal experience, some of the most memorable discoveries happen when you give yourself permission to explore without an agenda. Every corner has a story, every bridge a new perspective, and every small square a hidden gem.
Final Thoughts
Venice is a city that rewards curiosity. While the landmarks are stunning, the true soul of the city often hides in quiet alleys, overlooked islands, and secret gardens. By venturing off the beaten path, you’ll discover experiences that are intimate, authentic, and unforgettable.
So skip the crowds for a bit, follow your curiosity, and embrace the unexpected. Whether it’s a quirky bookstore, a secret garden, or a quiet street in Dorsoduro, Venice has countless surprises waiting for you. And from my own personal experience, these off-the-beaten-path adventures are what make a visit to Venice truly magical.
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.