Venice beyond clichés! These are 5 hidden places you must visit!

Venice, known as the “city on the water“, is one of the most visited places in the world, attracting around 20 million tourists a year. Its canals, narrow streets, and incredible architecture make it a true jewel of Italy. The city is built on more than 100 small islands connected by bridges, and instead of streets, canals dominated by gondolas, boat,s and vaporetto boats.

Its most famous attractions include the magnificent St. Mark’s Square with its eponymous basilica, the Renaissance Doge’s Palace, the famous Rialto Bridge, and the famous Bridge of Sighs. However, Venice offers much more than these classic sights. If you want to explore a more authentic and lesser-known side of the city, here are five hidden places that are definitely worth a visit.

Gondola, Venice, Photo: hin255 Depositphotos

1. ACQUA ALTA LIBRARY

Tucked away in one of Venice’s most picturesque streets, Libreria Acqua Alta is one of the most unusual bookstores in the world. The books here are stacked in gondolas, tubs, and barrels to protect them from the frequent floods. In addition to being a haven for book lovers, the bookstore also has a hidden terrace overlooking the canal, as well as the famous “book stairs” that offer great views for photos.

Libreria Acqua Alta Photo: Kent Wang, CC BY-SA 2.0

2. SAN FRANCESCO DELLA VIGNA

This quiet and secluded church is located in the northeastern part of the city and is often overlooked by tourists. The church stands out with its simple Renaissance facade designed by Andrea Palladio, while the interior hides impressive frescoes and altars. In addition, the church has a beautiful cloister that offers moments of peace away from the tourist crowds.

Church of San Francesco della Vigna, Photo: pandionhiatus3 Depositphotos

3. SAN TROVASO SHIPYARD

If you want to see how Venetian gondolas are built and repaired, San Trovaso Shipyard is the place to be. This traditional workshop has been around since the 17th century and is one of the few that remains active. Although it is not always open to visitors, you can watch from the outside as gondoliers and craftsmen work diligently on their vessels.

Squero San Trovaso, Photo: Matthias Süßen, CC BY-SA 4.0

4. THE SECRET TERRACE OF FONDACO DEI TEDESCHI

Although Fondaco dei Tedeschi is now a luxury shopping destination, few people know that on the roof of the building there is a free terrace with incredible views of the Grand Canal and the rooftops of Venice. This terrace offers the perfect place to take photos and enjoy the panoramic view, and due to the limited number of visitors, it is necessary to book an appointment in advance.

Fondaco dei Tedeschi Photo: Didier Descouens, CC BY-SA 4.0

5. SAN MICHELE ISLAND

San Michele is a peaceful island located between Venice and Murano, known for its gardens and historic architecture. You can also find occasional art installations here, adding a special charm to this isolated location. The island is also home to the famous Venetian cemetery, where figures such as composer Igor Stravinsky and poet Ezra Pound are buried.

San Michele Island, Photo: catalby Depositphotos

While some of Venice’s landmarks are unmissable, this magical city offers much more than its famous attractions. Hidden spots provide a unique experience and allow you to experience a more authentic and lesser-known side of the city. If you visit this beautiful city, take the time to explore these few attractions too!

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