Grand Canal
Venice's great waterway, lined with palaces, best seen from a water bus.
About
Why visit Grand Canal
The Canal Grande curves through the city in a reversed S, lined with palazzi from Byzantine to Baroque. The slow water-bus route along its length is one of the most memorable rides in Europe.
Not to miss
Highlights
The moments that define a visit to Grand Canal.
Water-bus ride
The slow line along the canal passes most of the great palaces.
Ca' d'Oro
A Gothic palace with a lace-like façade.
Traghetto crossing
A short gondola ferry across the canal at set points.
Local know-how
Visitor tips
Small things that turn a good visit into a great one.
Try for an outside seat at the front or back of the boat.
Travel at dusk for warm light on the palace façades.
Nearby
Combine with
Other guides within a short walk.
Rialto Bridge & Market
The famous stone bridge over the Grand Canal and the lively market beside it.
Open guideSt. Mark's Basilica
A glittering Byzantine basilica covered in golden mosaics.
Open guidePeggy Guggenheim Collection
Modern art in a canal-side palazzo, with a sculpture garden and terrace.
Open guide