12 Landmarks To Visit In The Sinking City Of Venice

The chance to escape to the beautiful and historic paradise of Venice and adore its landmarks is a once in a lifetime opportunity. The sinking city is an unending collection of bridges and boats that was once a refuge for Romans fleeing successive invasions, and by the 13^th century, the Republic of Venice was the most prosperous settlement in Europe. From today’s perspective, it’s not difficult to see why, and the island’s wealth is more apparent than ever.  

Despite the growing fears of global warming that have led to an increase in annual floods, Venice and its landmarks remain a popular travel destination. Many, including me, go in search of peaceful canal views, breath-taking architecture, incredible cuisine and a casual atmosphere – and few are ever disappointed. The city truly lives up to its vivacious charm and wonder and is a place where Italian charisma is unmissable.

I found myself wonderfully at ease but simultaneously euphoric as I wandered narrow streets and got lost in a maze of dynamic fashion – and that is what I consider the perfect mix of emotions for an efficacious holiday. 

Being devoid of cars and its lack of typical public transport also adds to the city’s ancient character and is a refreshing change that makes it a place like no other.

Venice is somewhere at the top of my list of favourite places I’ve visited thus far, but I won’t lie to you, it is not a location I would visit again. It is a once in a lifetime experience for me, and that’s what makes it so magical.

Is Venice Sinking?

When people discuss the reality that Venice is sinking, it is not an exaggeration. The beautiful island crisscrossed by 177 canals has been under threat from rising sea levels and its on weight for centuries, and if you are familiar with the city you’ll probably already be aware of the ‘acqua alta’, or ‘high water’ which floods it through out the year. As a visitor, your trip might not coincide with this phenomenon, but if it does, you’ll find St Mark’s Square temporarily turns into a lake and gondolas floating in what would have been footpaths. 

In addition to high tides, Venice suffers from subsidence. Built on a muddy lagoon with inadequate foundations, the ground beneath the city has slowly compacted over time, and this combined with shifting tectonic plates makes it even clearer as to why Venice is sinking.

At its current rate, geologists believe that in worst-case scenario, the city could disappear beneath the waves as early as 2100 – so don’t worry, that’s plenty of time to plan your adventures in Venice!

Travel and Accommodation In Venice 

Unsurprisingly, Venice is on the steeper side of vacation costs. While flights can be extremely cheap, accommodation cost is high despite its diverse range of hotels and Airbnbs. Perhaps it depends on the time of year, but if you plan to visit between May and November when flooding is unlikely, and the weather is warm, be prepared to pay a little more than you might expect. 

You’ve got your luxury choices like The St. Regis Venice, but if you are on a budget, I recommend the 2* hotel I stayed at – Hotel Guerrini. It is simple but classically Venetian and will not break the bank. There are many like these all over the island, you may just have to dig a little deeper to find them. 

Avoid the San Marco district and remember that Venice is small, therefore no matter where you stay, you will be within walking distance to the centre.

Twelve Stunning Landmarks In Venice 

St. Mark’s Basilica 

St Mark’s Bascilica is possibly the most prominent landmark of Venice and is a remarkable structure of intricate detail, golden domes, and stunning murals. Its external extravagance is so hypnotising (although it is unfortunately covered in scaffolding at the moment), that you may not even need to go inside. However, if you have the time to queue up from 9am and don’t mind paying the 3-euro entrance charge, I don’t see why not! The stillness of the internal atmosphere is captivating.

St. Mark’s Square 

St Mark’s Square is the centre of activity in Venice, but was my leas favourite place because it is unbelievably crowded and the restaurants in it are excruciatingly expensive. So, while you have to go there to gain access to many attractions, it’s not a place to sit around unless you make your way at sunrise. 

Gondolas and the Grand Canal

Turning a corner off the square will bring you to the grand canal and its endless line of gondolas. Photographers can have a field day here while also relaxing by the water and allowing the gentle waves to wash you with a feeling of tranquillity.

This is also the starting point at which Venice’s landmark experience – the scenic Gondolas rides – begin. The average cost for a 30 minutes Gondola ride through the city costs 80 euros.

St Marks Campanile

This soaring bell tower dominates the skyline and offers panoramic views of Venice. Riding the elevator to the top rewards you with unmatched views of the grand canal, Doges Palace, and the horizon. (Witnessing this beauty does come at the cost of strong winds!)

The Bridge of Sighs 

The Bridge of Sighs is tiny in the relative grandness of other landmarks in Venice, but this is one of the city’s most historically significant features as it connects Prigioni Nuove to Doges Palace. Legend claims that prisoners were escorted over it, where they cast their last glimpse of Venice and sighed – and that’s how it got its name. 

Doges Palace 

This is a renowned, ornate gothic building overlooking the grand canal that, for centuries, it served as a residence for the Doge and justice. It features large rooms decorated by beautiful murals, which did feel underwhelming at first but, the ticket price was worth it to walk the Bridge of Sighs and experience a fraction of what prisoners felt as they looked through the carved holes to the vibrant city they were leaving behind. 

Ponte di Rialto Bridge

Spanning the grand canal, this iconic piece of architecture connects San Marco with San Polo and was originally made of wood before being rebuilt in stone after its collapse in 1524. What stands before us today is the frames of perfect symmetry and is an exquisite attraction to take a picture with. The vibrant markets around this area are also worth a rummage.

Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute 

The beautiful church straddles the opposite side of the grand canal from St Marks, and though I did not visit it up close, its baroque design and elaborate nature made it just as striking from afar.

Gallerie dell’Accademia 

Gallerie dell’Accademia delivers a massive collection of impressive pre-19^th century art, including the works of Bellini, Canaletto and Titan. Is it worth the 12-euro entrance fee? Maybe not.

Libreria Acqua Alta 

Libreria Acqua Alta is a unique bookstore selling vintage titles that draws attraction to its picturesque setting. It is lovely, but I have never been so stressed trying to take a picture. There is always a man rushing people around and trust me, the moments he wasn’t there, we all relaxed, and things moved a lot more smoothly.  

Murano, Burano and Torcello

One of the best things about Venice is leaving Venice. Jump aboard a waterbus and take a day trip to these gorgeous nearby islands where you can indulge in the talents of glassblowing and lacemaking or marvel at imposing and colourful architecture. The day I spent exploring these destinations was the absolute highlight of my trip. (read more here)

SuSo Gelateria

A trip to any part of Italy is never complete without enjoying the endless flavours of gelato available. While not a monument in the typical sense, this gelato shop has turned into an iconic, landmark establishment in Venice.

Wine Tasting In Venice

Speaking of Venice’s fun food scene, the island also has underrated wine-tasting tourism and there are a variety of wineries a worth visit, including Tenuta Santomé  and Azienda Vitivinicola Sant’Antonio. So while you’re eyeing up the pasta and gelato, don’t miss out on the sweet drinks. Read more about wine tasting in Venice by following this link!

Average Cost For Four Days In Venice Per Person

Transport (flights from London + local travel): £70

Accommodation: £150 (£300 per double)

Attractions: £60

Food and amenities: £100

Keep In Mind

There are countless water fountains dotted around the city that are perfectly safe to drink from, so make sure to carry a refillable water bottle with you.

Venice can be unbelievably crowded during the summer and more so on weekends, so if you want to experience the serenity of the destination, wake up early and wander around before 10am – you won’t regret it.

The large crowds around the landmarks in Venice mean long waits. Try book attraction tickets in advance and when catching the waterbus to the Murano, leave as early in the morning as possible – else be ready to stand in hour-long queues. 

Gondola rides are a Venice staple but might not be worth the price depending on the size of your group. A 35-minute ride costs 80 euros, which didn’t seem worth it to me, but to each their own.

Practical Information About Venice

Location: Italy, Southern Europe 

National Languages: Italian

Currency: Euro

Neighbouring Countries: Austria, France, Slovenia and Switzerland