Venice is often revealed through its famous canals and the architectural splendor of its historic monuments. But it also harbors a fascinating secret world, known only to a few insiders and residents.
Discover these hidden places offers an intimate and original perspective of the City of the Doges, far from the tourist hustle and bustle that concentrates along the Grand Canal. This secret Venice is populated by sheltered gardens, little-known palaces and quiet corners that tell a completely different story, that of an authentic and captivating Venetian daily life.
For inquisitive travellers looking to immerse themselves in Venice's genuine fabricexploring these hidden neighborhoods is an adventure in itself.
bonjourvenise.wpengine.com's guided walking tours of the historic center are the perfect opportunity for those wishing to discover the city in all its diversity. Whether through the works of art discreetly scattered off the beaten track or the unsuspected architecture of its lesser-known buildings, every step is a promise of discovery.
Key points
- Venice has hidden treasures beyond its well-known tourist attractions.
- Less-frequented neighborhoods offer a more authentic and intimate experience of the city.
- Guided walking tours are an ideal way to explore Venice's secret riches.
Discover Venice's Hidden Quarters
Venice is full of little-known neighborhoods that offer an escape from the hustle and bustle of tourism. These nooks and crannies are full of treasures and captivating stories, making for an authentic and serene discovery of the city.
Cannaregio and its treasures
Cannaregioone of Venice's most unspoilt districts, is an invitation to explore the true face of the city. Here you'll find the Jewish ghettoEurope's oldest, home to synagogues and memorial sites steeped in history. Art lovers will appreciate the works of Tintoretto at the Madonna dell'Orto church.
- Places to visit:
- Jewish ghetto
- Madonna dell'Orto
- Ponte de Chiodoone of the last bridges without a parapet in Venice
Mysteries of Dorsoduro
Dorsoduro invites you into its alleys where art and serenity meet. The district is home to the Peggy Guggenheim Collectionand lesser-known establishments such as the Scuola Grande dei Carmini. Picturesque canals and hidden bridges like the Ponte dei Pugni add to the district's charm.
- Highlights:
- Peggy Guggenheim Collection
- Scuola Grande dei Carmini
- Ponte dei Pugni
The unexplored Castello
Far off the beaten track, the Castello district is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in Venetian authenticity. The district boasts secret gardens nestled between its buildings, as well as richly decorated churches. Castello is the ideal place to lose yourself in the quiet magic of Venice.
- Treasures to discover:
- Hidden gardens
- Historic churches
- Authentic local life
The secret island of Torcello
Torcello, a peaceful island in the lagoon, is a hidden gem often overlooked by tourists. It offers a peaceful atmosphere with the basilica of Santa Maria Assuntaknown for its magnificent mosaic, and the leaning campanilewhich tells the story of a rich and complex past.
- Notable attractions:
- Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta
- Leaning bell tower
- Roman remains
Unknown Venetian Art and Architecture
Beyond its canals and gondolas, Venice abounds in little-known art and architecture, often overshadowed by its most famous sites.
Palladian architecture and its pearls
Andrea Palladioa Renaissance architect, left an indelible mark on Venetian architecture. Two of his masterpieces are San Giorgio Maggiore churchwith its bell tower offering a breathtaking view of Venice, and San Francesco della VignaThese buildings reflect the harmonious proportions typical of the Palladian style. These buildings reflect the harmonious proportions typical of the Palladian style.
Borges Labyrinth and Hidden Frescoes
Visit Borges mazecreated in homage to Argentine writer Jorge Luis Borges on the island of San Giorgio Maggiore, is a little-known secret passage. Venice also conceals some remarkable frescoes, such as those by the painter Tintoretto. Their locations, such as the Scala Contarini del Bovolo, make them surprising discoveries, revealing themselves at the turn of an alley or a narrow passage.
Unusual Gardens and Passages
Venice's secret gardens are true havens of peace away from the hustle and bustle of tourism. Some, like those hidden behind palaces, reveal a more intimate Venice. Unusual passages such as the Rialto or small bridges, far from the usual circuits, are witnesses to Venetian history, inviting you to take a journey through time.
Frequently asked questions
Venice has many hidden treasures, and is renowned for its lesser-known aspects as much as for its splendors, which are open to all. These FAQs aim to enlighten the curious visitor on these less explored facets.
What little-known museums can you visit in Venice?
In Venice, the Museo Fortuny offers an art collection in a Gothic palace, while the Casa di Carlo Goldoni showcases 18th-century Venetian life.
Where can I find guides to unusual tours of Venice?
Specialized guides to unusual tours of Venice are available in local bookshops or can be downloaded online from websites dedicated to off-the-beaten-track travel.
What are the most recommended secret places in Venice?
The Giardino Mistico and the Malipiero Gardens are among Venice's most enchanting secret spots, often accessible at set times or by negotiation.
Where can I find unusual restaurants in Venice?
Atypical restaurants in Venice, such as bacari, offer unique cicchetti and are scattered throughout the city, particularly in the Cannaregio and Dorsoduro districts.
What's the best way to explore Venice on foot?
Exploring Venice on foot allows you to discover charming alleys and secret courtyards, an itinerary ideally built with curiosity as your compass and the desire to surprise as your guide.
Which unusual bars are a must in Venice?
In Venice, bars like El Refolo offer an unusual atmosphere. Places like Caffè Florian combine history and originality in an unforgettable setting.
What to do in Venice in 1 day, 2 days, 3 days, 5 days, a week?
Whatever the length of your stay, I invite you to download my special Venice guide.
It's free and in PDF format.
All you have to do is tell me below which e-mail address you'd like to receive it at.
EDIT: you can't enter your email?
Take the quiz at the top of this article and you'll be able to register your email address to receive the special Venice guide!
Leave a Reply