Venice is a city that is well-known for its beauty, history, and charm. However, because of its popularity, many of the city's attractions can be crowded with tourists.
As Venice Insider Guide is a website made by Venetians, we want to share with you 25 non touristy things to do in Venice that will help you experience the city like us.
These activities are more popular among locals than tourists and will give you a unique perspective on the city.
The Top Non Touristy Things to Do in Venice You Should Know Before Coming Here
Writing this article, we would like to make sure that you truly enjoy the true flavors of the city.
Here are 25 non touristy things to do in Venice, Italy. These activities are typically done by locals, rather than tourists, which makes them truly unique moments to experience in the city.
25. Visit the Jewish Ghetto
The Jewish Ghetto is the oldest in Europe and is a fascinating place to visit.
Take a walk around the area and explore the small shops and restaurants that are tucked away in the narrow streets. You can also visit the Jewish Museum and the synagogues, which provide insight into the history of the Jewish community in Venice.
Please read our guide to know more!
24. Take a Walk Through the Castello Neighborhood
The Castello neighborhood is one of the largest in Venice and is often overlooked by tourists.
Take a walk through the area and explore the local shops, restaurants, and markets.
You'll also find some hidden gems like the Arsenale and the Biennale Gardens.
Discover our itinerary of Castello here!
23. Visit one of the most beautiful churches of the city
The Chiesa di San Giorgio Maggiore is a beautiful church located on the island of the same name.
The church was designed by Andrea Palladio and offers stunning views of the city from its bell tower.
Take a water taxi or vaporetto to the island and spend some time exploring the area!
Explore more about this incredible place here!
22. Explore the Cannaregio Neighborhood
The Cannaregio neighborhood is one of the most authentic areas of Venice and is a great place to explore.
Take a walk along the canals and explore the local shops and restaurants. You'll also find some hidden gems like the Madonna dell'Orto church and, of course, the Jewish Museum.
21. Visit one of the most beautiful Scuola Grande
The Scuola Grande di San Rocco is a stunning building located in the San Polo neighborhood.
The building is home to some of Tintoretto's most famous works and is a must-visit for art lovers.
We won't give you so many details here because we have prepared an extensive guide here!
20. Take a Gondola Ride Through the Canals
While gondola rides are a popular tourist attraction in Venice, you can experience them in a more authentic way by avoiding the busy areas and taking a ride through the quieter canals.
This will give you a chance to see a different side of the city and experience its beauty like a local.
Check out our full guide here!
19. Visit the Church of San Sebastiano
The Church of San Sebastiano is a beautiful church located in the Dorsoduro neighborhood.
The church is home to some stunning artwork by Paolo Veronese and is a must-visit for art lovers. It seems that it is housed here the last work by the great artist.
18. Explore the oldest Market in the city
The Rialto Market is a bustling market located near the Grand Canal. The famous bridge takes its name after it.
The market is a great place to explore and discover some of the local food and produce that Venice has to offer. Take some time to wander through the market and try some of the local delicacies.
Would you like a local insight? Come here early in the morning or very late in the evening!
17. Visit the Peggy Guggenheim Collection
The Peggy Guggenheim Collection is a contemporary art museum located in the Dorsoduro neighborhood.
The museum is home to some of the most important works of modern art and you can truly enjoy your visit thanks to many exhibitions, masterclasses and workshops that the museum constantly organizes.
16. Take a Walk Through the San Polo Neighborhood
The San Polo neighborhood is one of the oldest in the floating city and is a great place to explore. Take a walk along the canals and explore the local shops and restaurants.
You'll also find some hidden gems like the Church of San Giacomo di Rialto, the oldest in the city!
15. Visit the Church of San Zaccaria
The Church of San Zaccaria is a beautiful church located near the San Marco neighborhood.
The first building dates back to the 9th century, when the building was intended to house the remains of St. Zacharias, donated to the city by the Byzantine emperor Leo V the Armenian.
The first structure was joined by a convent of Benedictine nuns. Some years later, however, a terrible fire destroyed both the church and the monastery. The building you can see today was made later and it was perfectly renovated by the architect Codussi in the XV century.
14. Explore the Dorsoduro Neighborhood
To enjoy the city at its best, you cannot leave without a walk around Dorsoduro district, one of the most charming areas.
Take a walk along the canals and explore the local shops and restaurants. You'll also find some hidden gems like the Gallerie dell'Accademia and the Campo Santa Margherita, the inner core of Venetian nightlife.
13. Visit the Church of San Pietro di Castello
The Church of San Pietro di Castello is a beautiful church located on the island of the same name.
Why to go there?
Because that very church was the first basilica of the city! It was even more important than that of St Mark's!
12. Take a Walk Through the Santa Croce Neighborhood
The Santa Croce neighborhood is very close to Venice main train station and so many people simply decide to skip its visit because they are more attracted by the wonders of Piazza San Marco.
However, it is indeed a great place to explore. Take a walk along the canals and explore the local shops and restaurants. You'll also find some hidden gems like the Church of San Giacomo dall'Orio and the Ca' Pesaro.
11. Visit the Church of San Barnaba
The Church of San Barnaba is a modern church located near the Dorsoduro neighborhood.
The building is not so fascinating per se, but it is renowned for being the setting of Indiana Jones and the last crusade!
Very close to the building, there is the Ponte dei Pugni, the protagonist of a very curious local tradition...
10. Explore the Castello Gardens
The Gardens located in the Castello districts are a beautiful green and public area, close to the Arsenale where you can enjoy some of the beautiful views of Venice.
Take some time to explore the gardens and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
9. Visit the Church of San Giovanni e Paolo
The Church of San Giovanni e Paolo is a beautiful church located near the Cannaregio neighborhood.
It is probably the biggest church in the city and it is simply amazing to visit.
8. Take a Walk Through the Giudecca Island
Giudecca Island is one of the most charming areas of Venice and is a great place to explore. Take a walk along the canals and explore the local shops and restaurants.
You'll also find some hidden gems like the Church of the Redeemer and the Molino Stucky.
7. Visit the Church of Santa Maria dei Miracoli
The Church of Santa Maria dei Miracoli is a beautiful church located near the Cannaregio neighborhood.
The church has been described as a casket all covered with marble slabs in lozenges and squares.
It was made by master stone masons who were among the most capable in 15th-century Venice.
6. Explore the San Marco Neighborhood at Night
This neighborhood is one of the busiest areas of Venice during the day, but it takes on a different character at night.
Take a walk through the area and explore the local bars and restaurants. You'll also find some hidden gems like the beautiful Scala Contarini del Bovolo.
5. Visit the Church of San Francesco della Vigna
This is one of the most silent and quiet areas of the city.
The Church of San Francesco della Vigna is a beautiful church located near the Castello neighborhood.
The present church was begun by Jacopo Sansovino in 1534 but was later entrusted to Andrea Palladio to build the facade. It is one of the major architectures of the Venetian Renaissance.
4. Take a Bike Ride Along the Lido and Pellestrina Islands
The Lido and Pellestrina Islands are two of the most beautiful and peaceful areas, and they offer a different perspective on the city.
Take a bike ride along the islands and enjoy the stunning views of the sea and the lagoon. You'll also have the chance to explore the local shops and restaurants, as well as the charming fishing villages on Pellestrina Island.
3. Visit the Church of Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari
The Church of Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari is a beautiful church located near the San Polo neighborhood. The church is home to some stunning artwork by Titian and is a must-visit for art lovers.
2. Take a stroll along the Zattere
The Zattere is a picturesque promenade located in the Dorsoduro neighborhood.
Take a sunset stroll along the Zattere and enjoy the stunning view of Santa Maria della Salute, one of the most iconic buildings in Venice.
You'll also find some charming cafes and gelaterias along the way where you can enjoy some local treats while admiring the view.
1. Visit the Palazzo Grimani
The Palazzo Grimani is a stunning Renaissance palace located near the Santa Maria Formosa neighborhood.
The palace is home to some beautiful artwork and architecture, including a stunning courtyard and a collection of ancient Roman sculptures. Take some time to explore the palace and learn about its fascinating history.
We truly hope you have enjoyed our tour among the less touristy things to do in our city!