A Venetian residence in Piazza San Marco

Venice is one of the most extraordinary cities in the world. Photographed and told countless times, it continues to amaze every time it is seen from its most authentic element: the water. After all, it is a city born to be experienced by navigating its canals. Among the suggestions we often share is to explore the more intimate side of Venice by boat: a slow, almost meditative experience that restores the city’s original breath.

For those wishing to immerse themselves in the most refined and creative heart of Venice, we often recommend Palazzo Fortuny. Not just a museum, but a whole universe: once the home and studio of Mariano Fortuny, a visionary artist and cosmopolitan designer.

Curious travelers looking to explore a less touristy Venice can discover this fascinating place where music and architecture intertwine in surprising ways. Located in the heart of San Marco, Palazzo Pisani houses the Benedetto Marcello Conservatory. A captivating place where music and architecture merge, with courtyards and rooms that tell stories far from the usual tourist paths.

Along Venice’s streets, some artisan workshops keep alive the ancient tradition of Venetian masks. Those wishing to enjoy a creative moment can find master mask-makers ready to share techniques and secrets to create a unique mask, following the city’s centuries-old art.

If you love cycling or simply enjoy moving at your own pace, the island of Sant’Erasmo offers a quiet, little-touristed refuge in the lagoon. Its gardens, vineyards, and apiaries tell a different Venice, to be explored by bike while savoring the genuine flavors of the territory with an experience organized by a local partner, Top Venice.

For those eager to deepen their knowledge of Venetian culinary tradition, we recommend exploring the offerings of local chefs, available through territorial partners. An opportunity to learn authentic recipes and cooking techniques directly from those who live and love this culture.

St. Mark’s Basilica, the spiritual and artistic heart of Venice, can be discovered in a more intimate and private way. Through a local partner, Top Venice, we suggest accessing this iconic site without the crowds, experiencing a truly unique moment.

For those intrigued by ancient artisan traditions, it’s well worth visiting one of the historic glassworks in the lagoon. During the tour, you’ll have the chance to watch master glassblowers at work, discovering techniques passed down through generations and the skill of local artisans. It’s also a special opportunity to choose a unique, handmade piece to take home — an authentic souvenir that tells a different story of Venice.

This tour is dedicated to the preservation of the traditional Venetian aquatic culture and its core, the Venetian rowing style: standing, looking forward, born in Venice and made iconic by the gondoliers.