Top Rated Attracties in Venetië

Palazzo Pisani Moretta is a two-storeyed palace that stands majestically facing the Grand Canal. Dating back to the 15th Century, this palace boasts of a light pink façade exhibiting Gothic floral architecture. Its most prominent features are its white windows with mullions and arches. Its interiors have been designed by famous historic artists of the Baroque period and hence the stairways, walls and ceilings exhibit distinct Baroque art and architecture. Some of these artists include Giuseppe Angeli, Gaspare Diziani, Giambattista Tiepolo and Jacopo Guarana. This palace has been graced by the likes of Holy Roman Emperor Joseph Il of Austria, Joséphine Bonaparte and Tzar Paul of Russia. Today, it hosts an annual masquerade and is open for public visits.

The Vedova Studio was the great studio where Emilio Vedova worked since the early 1970s. After using the studios of the Church of San Gregorio, and of Magazzini del Sale (he left them only after saving them from demolition), he came to rest at this spot. Emilio Vedova was particularly proud of his 'big cave', as he called it. The Foundation is supervised by Renzo Piano, who directed the renovation of Magazzini del Sale. The Foundation has two exhibitions spaces, the Studio Vedova and Magazzini del Sale.

The Palazzo Cavalli Franchetti is an impressive waterfront structure that represents the neo-Gothic style of architectural designing. In the past, it has been the residence of many prominent Venetian families. In 1999, the VIC (Venice Cultural Initiatives) was appointed to manage as well as preserve the Palazzo Cavalli Franchetti. Since then, this organization has been maintaining it and hosting variety of events here. Cultural events, expositions, conferences and many other activities are a regular feature here. Truly, the Palazzo Cavalli Franchetti is worth visiting for its splendid location, stunning architecture and interesting events. For bookings, events updates and other information, check website.

Based in the old Benedictine San Giorgio Maggiore monastery, Fondazione Cini was established to revive the island of San Giorgio Maggiore and the convent by turning it into a cultural hub. Founded by Vittorio Cini in remembrance of his son, it features a massive library containing archives of manuscripts and documents on music, history, art and theater. There is also a huge private park, events space and Teatro Verde within the complex.

The Ca' d'Oro is a beautiful Gothic structure that served as a home to a highly influential family in the 15th century. Built for the Contarini family, the structure is called the Palazzo Santa Sofia and more casually got the name Ca' d'Oro, which means ‘golden house’ or ‘house of gold’, because of the chrome decoration and gold inlays on the exterior. Giovanni Bon and Bartolomeo Bon, his son, were the architects on the job as well as the sculptors and they created a beautiful Gothic structure that is still talked about because of its style. Through the years, a few private owners destroyed some of the original structure. Then when Baron Giorgio Franchetti became the owner, he restored what was destroyed and now it is almost as good as it was when the original architects made it. The house is now restored and is open to the public. It is now known as the Gallery Giorgio Franchetti alla Ca’ d’Oro. It houses the Baron’s personal art collection, and also showcases the original furniture and decor.

Venice has only four bridges that traverse the famous Grand Canal. Ponte dell'Accademia is one of them connecting the neighborhoods of San Marco and Dorsoduro. It was originally built in 1854 and reconstructed twice to form the present structure. Though the bridge itself is not too great to look at, it affords magnificent views of gondolas and water taxis sailing through the Grand Canal and the play of sunlight creating myriad shadows on the surrounding red Venetian buildings. It is also a romantic spot and a popular destination with couples who wait to watch the awe-inspiring sunsets. Despite it being illegal, many couples attach talismans and love locks to the metallic rails of Ponte dell'Accademia as a symbol of eternal love.