More about: The 8 Best Outdoor Activities in Venice
Venice is a city that is lived in its streets and canals. With no cars or traffic noise, everything here is discovered on foot or on the water, making it a perfect destination for exploring the great outdoors. Whether sailing in a gondola, touring its islands or venturing beyond the lagoon, Venice will surprise you at every turn.
If you're looking for unforgettable plans, here are some of the best outdoor activities in Venice.
1. Gondola ride: the most iconic experience in Venice
Nothing represents Venice better than a gondola ride. Gliding through the canals, crossing small bridges and seeing the city from the water is one of those experiences that you have to live at least once.
If you want to make it even more special, you can opt for a serenaded ride and feel like you are in a movie while a gondolier sings for you.
2. A boat tour of Murano, Burano and Torcello
Venice is not only its historic center, but it is surrounded by islands with lots of charm. Murano is famous for its blown glass, Burano for its colorful houses and Torcello for its tranquility and history.
A boat trip in the lagoon is the best way to discover these places full of authenticity.
3. Sailing on the Grand Canal and discovering its palaces
The Grand Canal is the main avenue of Venice, but seeing it from the water is a completely different experience. From a boat, you can admire the palaces, the bridges and the daily life of the city from a unique perspective.
If you prefer a more exclusive experience, you can opt for a private boat tour on the Grand Canal and discover also the more hidden canals.
4. Exploring the hidden side of Venice on a guided tour
Beyond St. Mark's Square and the Rialto Bridge, Venice is full of alleys, hidden squares and corners with fascinating stories. A guided tour will allow you to get to know the city from a different perspective and discover secrets that go unnoticed to the naked eye.
For an even more special experience, you can combine it with a gondola ride at the end of the tour.
5. A getaway to the Dolomites between mountains and lakes
If you feel like escaping from the urban environment, an excursion to the Dolomites is a perfect choice. This spectacular mountain scenery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers crystal clear lakes, towering peaks and charming alpine villages.
From Cortina d'Ampezzo to Lake Misurina, it is an experience that combines fresh air and unforgettable views.
6. Glass and mask workshops: Venetian art at your fingertips
Venice is a city with a strong artisan tradition, and one of the most original ways to connect with its culture is by participating in a workshop of masks or blown glass.
You will learn about the creation process and take home your own work of art as a souvenir. In addition, you can complete the experience with a gondola ride to see the city from another perspective.
7. Panoramic views from the Basilica of San Giorgio Maggiore
Most travelers focus on St. Mark's Basilica, but across the canal is the Basilica of San Giorgio Maggiore, a less crowded corner with one of the best views in Venice.
From its bell tower, you can see the entire city, the lagoon and its islands, a panoramic view that is hard to beat.
8. Sunset in Venice with a boat ride on the lagoon
Venice at sunset takes on a special magic. Seeing how the sun tinges the buildings in golden tones while sailing on the lagoon is one of the most romantic and peaceful experiences you can live in the city.
If you are looking for a perfect plan to end the day, a boat ride at sunset is the best choice.