Venice is one of the most fascinating and visited cities in the world. Discovering its historic churches, iconic monuments, squares, and streets steeped in history is a dream for many. This guide will show you how to explore Venice peacefully while enjoying its best panoramic viewpoints, away from the crowds.
How to Visit Venice in Peace
Visiting Venice without the hustle and bustle of tourists might seem like an impossible task, but there are ways to do it. Nighttime is the perfect moment to explore the city in silence, when the streets empty and all you hear are the sounds of the water. Another option is to reach the city using public transportation from Eastern Veneto and head towards the numerous panoramic spots that Venice, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has to offer.
The Best Panoramic Views of Piazza San Marco
St. Mark’s Bell Tower: “El Paron de Casa”
Piazza San Marco is the beating heart of Venice and hosts some of its most famous monuments. Among them stands the Campanile of San Marco, affectionately known as “El Paron de Casa” by Venetians. Originally built for defensive purposes, this imposing bell tower now offers one of the most spectacular views of Venice, including a panorama of the square, Punta della Dogana, and the Church of Santa Maria della Salute.
The Loggia of St. Mark’s Basilica
The Loggia of St. Mark’s Basilica is also worth a visit. While not as tall as the Campanile (98.6 meters), the view is equally stunning. From here, you can admire the replicas of the famous Horses of St. Mark, with the originals preserved in the museum inside the Basilica.
The Clock Tower
Another hidden gem in Piazza San Marco is the Clock Tower. This Renaissance structure offers an extraordinary view from the Terrace of the Moors, accessible via a spiral staircase. From here, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the square and the nearby Basilica of San Giorgio Maggiore.
The View from San Giorgio Maggiore
Using public transport such as water taxis or vaporetto, you can reach the island of San Giorgio Maggiore, located opposite Piazza San Marco. Here, you’ll find the Church of San Giorgio Maggiore, designed by Palladio in the 16th century, housing artworks by artists like Tintoretto, Jacopo Bassano, and Palma il Giovane. The bell tower of this church is one of the tallest in Venice, offering a breathtaking view of Piazza San Marco and the Doge’s Palace.
Legendary Bridges, Terraces, and Towers of Venice
The Bridge of Sighs and the Rialto Bridge
The bridges of Venice offer incredible viewpoints. The Bridge of Sighs, named after the sorrowful sighs of condemned prisoners who crossed it, and the Rialto Bridge, which has elegantly spanned the Grand Canal since 1593, are among the most iconic.
The Fondaco dei Tedeschi
Just a few steps from the Rialto Bridge lies the Fondaco dei Tedeschi, a former 12th-century trading center now transformed into a luxury department store. On the top floor, a panoramic terrace offers a spectacular view of the Grand Canal and St. Mark’s Basilica.
The Accademia Bridge and Campo Santo Stefano
The Accademia Bridge, which leads to Campo Santo Stefano, is another must-see panoramic spot. This square hosts one of the most picturesque Christmas markets in Venice, where you can find local crafts and Italian delicacies, all wrapped in a magical atmosphere.
The Contarini del Bovolo Staircase
Finally, the Contarini del Bovolo Staircase, located near the Rio dei Barcaroli, is a wonderful spiral staircase that combines Byzantine, Gothic, and Renaissance architectural styles. Legend has it that the owner of Palazzo Contarini built this staircase to access the top floor of the palace, the only part he could keep after losing the rest of his fortune to gambling. From the top of the staircase, you can enjoy a fascinating view of Venice’s rooftops.
Conclusion
Venice offers unique panoramas that allow you to discover the city from different perspectives. From bell towers to towers, bridges, and terraces, each viewpoint tells a story and provides an unforgettable view of the “Serenissima.” Don’t miss the chance to visit these iconic spots and admire Venice from above. Take an ATVO bus and come explore Venice with us!
