Venice Beyond the Obvious

1. Palazzo Venart: A Sanctuary of Elegance and Gastronomy

Tucked along the Grand Canal, Palazzo Venart is a boutique hotel that feels like a well-kept secret. Its Michelin-starred restaurant, GLAM, is a revelation. Chef Enrico Bartolini’s menu is a love letter to Venetian cuisine, with dishes like lagoon fish carpaccio and squid ink risotto. The private garden, with its lush greenery and tranquil fountain, is the perfect spot for a post-dinner digestivo. This is where luxury meets culinary artistry.

2. Cantina Do Spade: A Timeless Venetian Institution

Established in 1462, Cantina Do Spade is one of Venice’s oldest wine bars. Hidden near the Rialto Market, it’s a place where history and tradition come alive. The walls are lined with wooden barrels, and the air is thick with the aroma of aged wine. Try the baccalà mantecato (creamy cod) or the sarde in saor (sweet-and-sour sardines), paired with a glass of Amarone. It’s a taste of Venice as it was centuries ago.

3. Fondazione Giorgio Cini: A Cultural Escape

A short vaporetto ride from the hustle and bustle of San Marco, the Fondazione Giorgio Cini on the island of San Giorgio Maggiore is a haven for art and history lovers. The foundation hosts rotating exhibitions, concerts, and lectures, all set against the backdrop of a stunning Renaissance monastery. Don’t miss the chance to wander through the cloisters or take in the panoramic views of Venice from the bell tower.

4. Al Covo: Where Seafood Meets Soul

Al Covo is the kind of restaurant that feels like a well-kept secret. Tucked away in a quiet corner of Castello, this family-run gem is beloved by locals and in-the-know travelers alike. Chef Cesare Benelli’s menu is a celebration of the lagoon’s bounty, with dishes like spider crab pasta and grilled scallops. The wine list is a carefully curated selection of Veneto’s finest. It’s intimate, authentic, and utterly unforgettable.

5. Venissa: A Vineyard in the Lagoon

On the island of Mazzorbo, just a short boat ride from Burano, lies Venissa—a vineyard in the heart of the Venetian lagoon. Here, the rare Dorona grape is cultivated, producing a wine that’s as unique as the setting. The Michelin-starred restaurant offers a farm-to-table experience, with dishes that highlight the lagoon’s seasonal ingredients. It’s a place where wine, food, and nature come together in perfect harmony.

6. Scala Contarini del Bovolo: Venice’s Hidden Staircase

Tucked away in a quiet courtyard, the Scala Contarini del Bovolo is one of Venice’s most enchanting architectural treasures. This spiral staircase, with its intricate brickwork and soaring height, is a masterpiece of Renaissance design. Climb to the top for breathtaking views of the city’s rooftops and canals. It’s a peaceful retreat from the crowds and a reminder of Venice’s enduring beauty.

7. Antiche Carampane: A Local’s Secret

In the heart of the San Polo district, Antiche Carampane is a trattoria that feels like a well-guarded secret. The menu changes daily, depending on what’s fresh at the market, but you can always expect dishes like bigoli in salsa (pasta with anchovy sauce) and fritto misto (mixed fried seafood). The no-menu policy ensures that every meal is a surprise, and the warm, welcoming atmosphere makes you feel like part of the family.

8. Peggy Guggenheim Collection: Modern Art in a Historic Setting

Housed in the heiress’s former palazzo, the Peggy Guggenheim Collection is a must-visit for art lovers. The museum’s collection includes works by Picasso, Pollock, and Dalí, as well as a sculpture garden with stunning views of the Grand Canal. It’s a place where modern art and Venetian history intersect, offering a unique perspective on the city’s cultural legacy.

9. Rialto Market: A Feast for the Senses

The Rialto Market is a sensory overload in the best possible way. The stalls are piled high with fresh produce, seafood, and spices, and the air is filled with the sounds of vendors calling out their wares. Locals swear by arriving early to catch the freshest catch of the day. It’s a place to pick up ingredients for a picnic or simply soak in the vibrant atmosphere. For a truly immersive experience, join a cooking class and learn how to prepare traditional Venetian dishes.

10. Caffè Florian: A Slice of Venetian History

Opened in 1720, Caffè Florian is the oldest café in Italy and a living piece of Venetian history. Fun fact: it was a favorite haunt of Casanova. Located in Piazza San Marco, it’s the perfect spot for a cappuccino or a spritz, accompanied by live orchestral music. The opulent interiors, with their gilded mirrors and frescoed ceilings, transport you back to the 18th century. It’s a luxurious way to end your Venetian adventure.

Venice is a city that reveals its secrets slowly, rewarding those who take the time to look beyond the obvious. These 10 hidden gems offer a glimpse into a Venice that’s intimate, authentic, and endlessly fascinating. Whether you’re savoring a Michelin-starred meal, exploring a centuries-old vineyard, or simply soaking in the views from a quiet courtyard, these experiences will stay with you long after you’ve left the city. Venice isn’t just a destination—it’s a story waiting to be written. What will yours be?