Looking for the best places to see in Venice, Italy? I’ve got you covered! In this article, I’ll show you the top 10 Instagram-worthy places to visit in this enchanting city.
You can’t truly experience Italy without wandering through Venice, often referred to as the City of Lovers for good reason.
With its breathtaking views, stunning architecture, and rich history, Venice stands out as one of the most unique destinations in the world.
Imagine charming bridges arching over picturesque canals and gondolas gliding serenely with couples. The quaint narrow streets are just waiting to be explored.
Ready to discover the top 10 photo spots in Venice, Italy? Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
1. Rialto Bridge (Ponte di Rialto): A Top Choice of the Best Places to See in Venice
Undoubtedly, one of the prime places to see in Venice is the Ponte di Rialto.
This iconic bridge connects the districts of San Marco and San Polo. It’s the oldest of the four bridges spanning the Grand Canal, making it a must-see for visitors.
To escape the crowds, try to visit at sunrise or early morning.
While most tourists settle for photos from the bridge itself, I think a superior shot can be found on the concrete platform on the San Polo side, just after you cross.
Not only does this spot provide a beautiful photo opportunity, but it also offers splendid views, especially during the golden hour. Can you envision a more perfect setting for a romantic picnic for two?
2. Bridge of Sighs (Ponte dei Sospiri)
Another great spot for a unique photo in Venice is the Bridge of Sighs, or Ponte dei Sospiri.
The bridge gets its unusual name from the sighs of prisoners who caught their last glimpse of the city as they were taken to their cells.
While most people snap pictures from Ponte della Paglia, which is easy to reach from Piazza San Marco, you can get a more stunning shot from below.
Just head to the small dock right underneath Ponte della Paglia for a fresh perspective.
To avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit shortly after sunrise. This early bird approach works for Ponte di Rialto too!
For something a little different, try taking a photo on the lesser-known Ponte della Canonica, which is just behind the Bridge of Sighs.
3. Venice Gondola Rides
One of the best ways to snag unique photos in Venice is by hopping on a gondola.
Trust me, a romantic gondola ride is an absolute must when you’re in the city. There’s something truly enchantingabout floating along the beautiful canals with your partner.
Not only does it create a romantic atmosphere, but it also lets you capture Venice from a fresh perspective, adding a special touch to your photos.
Soak in the charm of Venice, and you’ll make memories that will stick with you forever!
Pro Tips for Venice Gondola Rides
Before you decide to rent a gondola, keep these tips in mind:
– Go for a morning ride to dodge the crowds and enjoy lower rates (EUR 60 instead of EUR 80 for a half-hour cruise).
– For a more authentic experience, opt for gondola rides through the smaller canals rather than the busy ones at Piazza San Marco.
– Before you set off, discuss the exact route with your gondolier to avoid any misunderstandings later on.
– Capture every moment during the ride! Time flies, so make sure you’re ready with your camera!
4. St Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco): Among the Best Places to See in Venice
The next picturesque spot in Venice, perfect for capturing a beautiful photo, is Piazza San Marco.
Located in the oldest part of the city, its history is closely tied to the construction of St. Mark’s Basilica. Often called the “living room of Europe,” this square is a tourist favorite and a must-see in Venice.
For the perfect shot, visit in the morning, preferably just after sunrise. This way, you can avoid crowds and enjoy the best lighting.
Pose against the backdrop of the majestic St. Mark’s Basilica and the city’s tallest structure, the St. Mark’s Campanile, for a striking effect.
Don’t miss the Procuratie Vecchie (Old Procuracies) building with its charming arcades, which also makes for a captivating photo!
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Pro tip
On Piazza San Marco, you’ll discover another extraordinary spot—Caffe Florian. This cafe holds the title of the oldest continuously operating cafe in the world (since 1720!).
The opulently decorated interior makes for a perfect backdrop for atmospheric photos. I recommend visiting during the day, enjoying a cup of coffee or hot chocolate, and capturing a few shots. Just be prepared for the relatively high prices!
5. Ponte dell’Accademia: One of the Best Places to See in Venice
Another must-visit spot on my list for capturing a unique photo in Venice is the Ponte dell’Accademia.
This bridge connects two significant districts—Dorsoduro and San Marco—and leads to the Gallerie dell’Accademia, the museum of Venetian art.
What really captivated me about this place is that it offers one of the most beautiful views of the Grand Canal in the city.
It’s no surprise, considering this is where that iconic photo was taken, still featured on many postcards from Venice.
The Ponte dell’Accademia looks its best at sunrise or sunset, when the sky over the canal is painted in stunning colors. In those moments, beautiful photos practically take themselves.
So, if you’re planning a photo session, this is definitely one of the best places to see in Venice!
6. The Hidden Pier in Venice
When you’ve explored all the sights and are running out of photo ideas, grab a pizza to go and head to the secluded pier right next to the San Moise Hotel.
This pier, thanks to its intimate location, is perfect for a picnic and makes for a unique photo setting.
While it may not be a complete secret anymore—having gained popularity among influencers—with a bit of luck, you can still enjoy it almost exclusively.
In my opinion, it’s best to visit in the late morning or late afternoon when the light on the pier is just right.
Sit back and soak in the view of the picturesque Venetian canal. Who knows, you might even be luckier than I was and capture a passing gondola in your photo!
7. Libreria Acqua Alta
Another fantastic spot for a photo shoot in Venice is the secluded Libreria Acqua Alta, often considered one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world.
While I’m not sure I’d go that far, it’s undeniably a unique place on the Venice map that’s definitely worth visiting.
This charming bookstore is home to numerous cats and has gained popularity because most of the books are stored in tubs or boats, protecting them from potential flooding during the “acqua alta” (the high tide that affects the city from autumn to spring).
In my opinion, the best photos here are taken while posing on the stairs of old books in the yard or in the gondola moored at the back of the store.
After your photo session, don’t forget to buy a book or one of the interesting souvenirs—there’s no shortage of unique finds at this delightful bookstore!
8. Gelatoteca SuSo
If you’re like me and love Italian ice cream, you have to check out the famous Gelatoteca SuSo, known for serving some of the best gelato in the entire city.
This local gem is celebrated not just for its fantastic taste but also for the colorful toppings that make it incredibly photogenic.
Grab your favorite gelato and then head over to the nearby bridge to snap a photo against the picturesque canal.
I have to warn you, though—it can be quite a challenge! It’s tough to resist such delicious-looking ice cream and not eat it on your way to the bridge.
But trust me, it’s worth it! Not only will you enjoy a unique ice cream experience, but you’ll also capture one of the most Instagrammable photos in Venice. Sounds good, right?
9. Dorsoduro
The charming Dorsoduro district is definitely one of the best places to check out in Venice!
This southernmost part of the city is a real treat for anyone who loves spots off the beaten path.
In Dorsoduro, you’ll notice a cool mix of old and new. You’ve got famous art galleries hanging out next to lively student streets and peaceful luxury apartments.
It’s no wonder Dorsoduro is known as one of the top spots for a nice stroll in Venice.
With tons of attractions around, it’s the perfect backdrop for your Instagram photos. You won’t run out of chances to snap some amazing shots!
I personally fell in love with the area along the stone wall across from Squero di San Trovaso—that historic workshop is one of the last places still making traditional wooden gondolas.
Can you think of a more special spot for a photo in Venice?
Pro tip
While in the Dorsoduro district, be sure to try the traditional Venetian snack called cicchetti at the family-run Cantine del Vino già Schiaviu. This place is located right next to a picturesque canal, where in good weather you can eat purchased sandwiches and drink your favorite wine. Sounds great, right?
10. Chiodo Bridge (Ponte Chiodo): Among the Best Places to See in Venice
The last charming spot on my list of must-see places in Venice is the historic Ponte Chiodo, tucked away in the lively Cannaregio district.
This unique bridge is named after the Chiodo family, who once owned it, and it adds a special touch to the many amazing sights in Venice.
What makes Ponte Chiodo stand out is that it doesn’t have railings, and it leads to a private building, now turned into a hotel.
Fun fact: in the past, none of Venice’s bridges had handrails. It wasn’t until the 19th century that they were added for safety.
Out of Venice’s 417 bridges, only two, including Ponte Chiodo, remain without handrails.
The other one, called Devil’s Bridge, is on the island of Torcello, another interesting spot to explore in Venice.
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Top 10 Instagram-Worthy Places to See in Venice: Summary
Venice is the perfect backdrop for a dreamy photoshoot in authentic Italian style.
This enchanting city, famous for its rich history and stunning natural beauty, is a treasure trove of captivating sights and places to see in Venice.
From historic landmarks to hidden gems, Venice offers an array of Instagram-worthy destinations that make it one of Italy’s most enticing places to explore.
I hope my curated list of photogenic places to see in Venice helps you plan your itinerary for this alluring city.
Now, all that’s left is to book your ticket and start your journey to discover the beauty of Venice!
Is Venice on your photography bucket list? Have you already explored this captivating city?
I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below! Share the Venice spots that left a lasting impression on you.
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