Last Updated on March 3, 2024 by MONICA

“Walking in Venice: Discovering the “Sestieri” on a Curated Walking Tour Itinerary around the Floating City”

Welcome, Venetian Lovers! Benvenuti Around Venice !

This piece aims to guide you through the different quarters of central Venice, each with its unique flavours and character. Discover what to see and what not to miss, and gain insights into the hidden gems. With the aid of this mini guide through the Sestrieri of Venice, you can create your own Venice experience by selecting what suits you best.

Andiamo! Let’s Start our Venice Walking Tour!

Together, we’ll explore the treasured art hubs, tranquil waterways, and historical quarters that make this city a living, breathing masterpiece. 

Venice is relatively small and offers a multitude of treasures and highlights within each of its six Sestieri or Districts.

---

Get Around Venice : The Six Districts ( or Sestrieri) of Venice City

 Stay in Venice : Introducing SAN MARCO District 

Since the very start of the Venetian Republic, San Marco’s “Sestriere” – home to Venice’s political and judicial nerve centres – has been at the core of its life.

As the most prominent landmark and heart of Venice, Piazza San Marco was designed to serve as a picturesque backdrop for the Doge’s Palace and Basilica. Napoleon famously described Saint Mark’s Square as “the most elegant drawing room in Europe”, and it was the only square worthy of being titled a piazza. All other areas were referred to as merely “campi” or fields.

The St. Mark’s district of Venice is an awe-inspiring sight – boasting many high-end hotels, eateries and stores, splendid churches, and the illustrious Fenice Theater alongside two other grandiose theatres. The Magnificent Palazzi, situated along the sweeping curve of the Grand Canal’s southern banks, cast a captivating enchantment on the guests.

Each landmark has its own story and charm, making Venice a city full of wonder and enchantment. They offer an unparalleled experience that will stay with you long after your journey has ended. Add them to your itinerary—you won’t regret it!

Read about St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace in more detail here.

Il Campanile- The Bell Tower

Ascend the tallest Tower in St Mark’s Square and feel your breath taken away by the picturesque views of Venice – its unsurpassed Lagoon and the majestic Alps. You can also glimpse these stunning mountain peaks on clear days!

Galileo showcased his newly invented telescope to the suspicious Leonardo Donna in 1609 from this unique vantage point.

In the past, reaching the top floors required physically climbing a ramp. Nowadays, using an elevator that can transport up to 14 people at once is much simpler.

Despite this, you can usually expect to see many visitors. If you find yourself at the top of the Tower when it strikes an hour, be conscious that its five bells will sound throughout – reverberating with their powerful resonance!

In 1173, the first Tower was erected to serve as a lighthouse guide for sailors in the Lagoon. Unfortunately, during the Middle Ages, it became an instrument of torture and punishment where prisoners were placed inside a cage and either left to suffer or die.

Bartolomeo Bon reworked the Tower in the early 1500s after an earthquake caused extensive damage, resulting in its current aesthetic.

Despite facing the test of time, the Tower stood firm until 14th July 1902, when its foundation abruptly crumbled and swiftly tumbled down with no warning.

On 25th April, St Mark’s Day of 1912, only one year after its destruction, the Campanile was magnificently restored with generous donations.

Upon seeing it standing tall once again as it had done before disaster struck, the Loggetta and the custodians’ cat exclaimed in joy: “Dov’era com’era!” (“Where it was. How It Was.”)

The Torre dell’Orologio-The Clock Tower

A majestic clock tower stands on the north side of Piazza, abundant with Renaissance-style decorations and soaring above the archways that open to Mercerie. This architectural marvel is widely believed to have been designed by Mauro Coducci in the late 15th century. 

This elegant gold and blue enamel clock, created for sailors, highlights the moon and zodiac phases.

During Ascension Week, crowds of people congregate to observe the figures of the Magi every hour as they step out from the side doors in reverence to the Virgin and Child, whose sculptures are displayed prominently above the clock.

The grand Winged Lion of St. Mark is proudly presented against a vibrant blue backdrop at the highest level.

Topping it off are two immense bronze figures known as Mori or Moors due to their dark patina; they chime in on the hour with delightful bells ringing throughout!

Columns of San Marco and San Teodoro

In addition to the bountiful spoils from Constantinople, two colossal granite columns were brought back and now stand in all their majestic glory within the Piazzetta.
It is believed that Nicolò Barattieri, the engineer of the original Rialto Bridge, erected these in 1172.

In recognition of his efforts, he was granted the authority to install gaming tables between the columns.

A more dreadful display also occurred on this site until the mid-18th century—the execution of culprits. Even nowadays, superstitious Venetians avoid walking between these columns.

The Western column is crowned by a replica of Saint Theodore’s marble statue, Venice’s original patron saint before the city famously stole St Mark’s Relics from Alexandria in AD 828. This modern copy serves as an awe-inspiring reminder while the authentic sculpture remains safeguarded within the Doge’s Palace for preservation.

Topping the second column is an immense bronze Lion of St. Mark, though its true origin remains a mystery. Many speculate it to be a Chinese Chimera with wings added to further resemble Venice’s emblematic beast.

The Correr Museum

In 1830, Abbot Teodoro Correr generously donated his vast assemblage of artwork and archives to the city in a remarkable act of beneficence. This forms the heart of the Civic Museum.

Antonio Canova’s(1757-1822) neoclassical statues grace the first floor, setting a suitably impressive scene. The remainder of this level narrates the history of Venice with maps, coins, armors, and artifacts connected to doges.

On the second story lies Museo del Risorgimento which encompasses Venice until it joined unified Italy in 1866.

Besides the Quadreria, a picture gallery that contains paintings arranged chronologically and with explanations in English, you can also trace the evolution of Venetian painting through this collection. It will let you observe how Ferrarese, Paduan, and Flemish artists have impacted the Venetian school.

The most acclaimed works in the gallery are Carpaccios’ pieces: A Portrait of a Young Man in a Red Hat (1490) and The Two Venetian Ladies, usually misidentified as Courtesans due to their décolleté dresses (1507).

Sightseeing around La Fenice

Are you seeking a reprieve from the energetic pace of San Marco? Venture west, where a labyrinth of alleyways awaits your exploration. In the heart of the sestriere lies Campo San Fantin, surrounded by the grandeur of its Renaissance-era church.

The Ateneo Veneto is just around the corner, which was historically a “Scuola” where members were assigned to guarding prisoners all the way to their execution site.

The winding alleyways have some delightful, unique stores tucked away, while Calle Larga XXII Marzo to the south features huge Italian fashion labels.

San Marco offers a range of historical restaurants, yet be mindful that this culinary experience comes with a hefty price tag. If you plan on eating out this quarter, remember to save a substantial amount for your bill.

La Fenice

Constructed in 1792 with a classical design, this theatre catered to audiences of all classes and backgrounds by offering theatrical performances and operas.

In December 1836, a devastating fire incinerated the theater; however, merely one year later, it was restored like the mythical phoenix that rises from its ashes. Regrettably, early 1996 witnessed yet another blaze destroying almost every part of the Auditorium except for its facade.

During the 19th century, La Fenice was a renowned powerhouse of Italian opera. Many significant opera premieres were held here – Verdi’s “La Traviata” in 1853, Rossini’s “Tancredi” in 1813, and Semiramide in 1823, to name just a few!

During the Austrian occupation, citizens showed their patriotism and pride by throwing red, white, and green flowers onto the stage – symbolic of Italy’s flag. This display was a powerful symbol to show solidarity against Austria’s rule. The crowd would chant “Viva Verdi” – each letter in ‘Verdi’ standing for(Vittorio Emanuele Re D‘Italia) Victor Emanuel as King of Italy.

---

Tour of Venice and Rialto Bridge : SAN POLO & SANTA CROCE Districts

The San Polo and Santa Croce areas, bordered by the flowing waterway of The Grand Canal, take their names from churches within them.

The initial settlers are believed to arrive on a small island called Rivus Altus in Latin, which translates to “high bank” or Rialto.

At its establishment in the 11th century, Venice’s Rialto Market quickly rose to prominence as a bustling commercial core.

San Polo continues to be one of the most vibrant neighbourhoods in Venice, teeming with market stalls, quaint shops, and cozy bars.

The bustling marketplace transforms into a labyrinth of winding alleys open to two magnificent “campi” or squares.

The Campo San Polo, the Frari church, and the Scuola di San Rocco are all magnificent focal points in Venice that can’t be missed.

Santa Croce is a bustling Sestriere full of narrow and cramped streets, giving you an intimate view into the more humble aspects of Venetian life. Grandeur reigns along the Grand Canal as its grand Palazzi line the waterway. In stark contrast to the city’s stunning sights, Piazza Roma is a giant car park located west of the city center.

3 Facts About San Polo

• Tourists are frequently drawn to the Rialto bridge and its accompanying marketplace. Historically, this was Venice’s commercial hub, where bankers, brokers, and merchants transacted their business.
• Once the roads were filled with vendors selling aromatic spices and luxurious fabrics, they are now enlivened by vibrant food markets and delicious pasta shops.
• Bacari, these classic standing-only bars, are always full of locals. Meanwhile, Riva del Vin, south of the Grand Canal, is an exclusive tourist hub.

---

Towards Murano : CASTELLO District

By far the most extensive “sestriere” in Venice, the Castello district stretches from San Marco and Cannareggio to Santa Elena’s modern structures, taking its name from an 8th-century fortress that resided on San Pietro for centuries, housing Venice’s cathedral until 1807.

The Arsenale, Castello’s industrial district, produced Venice’s mighty fleet of warships for many years during Venice’s reign in the Mediterranean sea. 

The Riva degli Schiavoni promenade is popular among visitors, boasting commercial activity and a lively atmosphere. Away from the hustle and bustle of the waterfront lies serene beauty, including narrow passageways, grand yet faded Palazzi, and stately churches such as Santi Giovanni e Paolo.

Exploring Eastern Castello

Embrace all that calmness can offer during this peaceful stroll through one of Italy’s most beautiful cities! Begin your tranquil journey at Castello Quayside and drift away to the quiet side of Venice. As the highlight of this tour, take in the breathtaking view from San Pietro di Castello, where the ancient cathedral once stood. Continue onward to St. Elena Island with its historical church and football stadium before returning along picturesque waterfront public gardens.

ARSENALE : Worth a Visit

The Arsenale, located in the heart of Venice’s maritime authority since the 12th century, was an impressive complex of factories, warehouses, workshops, foundries, and docks that made it one of the greatest naval shipyards in history.

The term “Arsenal” can be traced back to the Arabic darsina’a, meaning a house of the industry – an apt description of what it was.

In 1687, Admiral Francesco Morosini pillaged two majestic lions from the Piraeus (near Athens) and placed them at the entrance as guardians. Furthermore, a third lion was added to their number – bald, sitting right up with runic inscriptions carved onto its haunches said to be crafted by Scandinavian mercenaries who bravely fought for the Byzantine emperor against Greek insurgents in 1040.

By the 1700s, Venice was already beginning to decline, and the population of Arsenalotti dwindled to just 1,000 by 1797. Napoleon destroyed this once glorious city by destroying its docks and looting precious ornaments from Bucintoro (the Doge’s ship). Cannons and bronzes were melted down to create monuments celebrating France’s revolution.

Today, military personnel ensure the area is secure and inaccessible. If you want a peek at the shipyard, head to the bridge near an arched gateway. To take in even more beauty, hop on either “vaporetto” number 41 or 42 – they’ll guide you through Arsenale Vecchio’s heart!

The Arsenale is now being used to its full potential – the Corderia, formerly a rope factory, has been transformed into a secondary exhibition center for the Biennale and hosts research consortiums working on marine-based technologies. As such, this historic space impacts our understanding of coastal ecosystems.

The Assembly Line

During its peak, the Arsenale had remarkable proficiency in constructing and equipping Venetian galleys quickly and with impressive competence.

In the 16th century, newly-constructed hulls from the New Arsenal were towed past multiple structures at the old Arsenal for further outfitting with rigging, armaments, and provisions.

In 1570, when the Venetians were facing a Turkish invasion of Cyprus, their Arsenal could build an entire galley within 24 hours – an impressive feat that caught the eye of Henry III of France, who visited in 1574. It only took them as much time as it did for him to enjoy his state feast!

---

Planning your Time around the Grand Canal : DORSODURO DISTRICT

The illustrious district of Dorsoduro, translating to “hard backbone,” was founded centuries before the setting up of Rialto in 828 AD. 

The area takes its name for its sturdily constructed soil base on which it stands upon the Mendigola Island western portion.

Afterward, the settlement continued to expand eastward and encompassed six more islands. 

The Dorsoduro district is tranquil on the far eastern side of Academia, filled with peaceful squares, serene canals, and attractive homes owned by upper-class families and non-natives alike.

At the beginning of the 1900s, British expatriates actively visited St. George’s Anglican Church in Campo San Vio.

This area’s most prized attractions are the breathtaking views of the lagoon from both the Eastern tip, located near La Salute and from Zattere on Giudecca island.

Academia is even livelier to the west, with bustling Campo Santa Margherita as its most alluring epicenter.

The picturesque San Nicolò dei Mendicoli Church is surrounded by a shabby yet historically-rich neighborhood. This area was once home to fishermen and sailors who traveled far West of the city center.

Dorsoduro proudly presents some of the most captivating and celebrated art collections, including the Academy Gallery with its Veneto collection and Peggy Guggenheim’s 20th-century masterpieces.

Not only are the churches beautiful and grand, but they also contain a wealth of art pieces. San Sebastiano features magnificent paintings by Paolo Veronese, while the Scuola Grande dei Carmini and Church of Gesuiti boast stunning frescoes painted by Gian Battista Tiepolo on their ceilings.

Street by Street in Dorsoduro Overview

Lying between the awe-inspiring palaces of the Grand Canal and Campo Santa Margherita is a peaceful neighborhood comprising small squares and quaint alleyways.

To truly witness the majestic beauty of Rio San Barnaba, visit Ponte dei Pugni and treat yourself to the delicious bounty from the nearby Barge.

The Rio Terrà canal may not be the most aesthetically pleasing, but it is home to a captivating mask shop, and vibrant eateries come nightfall.

All pathways funnel towards Santa Margarita, which beats at the heart of Dorsoduro. Come morning, and the square is bustling with life as vendors open their stalls for business.

Campo San Barnaba

In the 18th century, San Barnaba parish was well-known for being a thriving hub of impoverished Venetian patricians surrounding its incredible canalside square.

The “barnabotti,” drawn to the area due to its affordable rents, found work in various ways – from relying on state aid and begging to employment as bankers in the local gambling house.

Nowadays, visitors are charmed by the calming atmosphere that emanates from both Campo San Barnaba and its canal with its laden vegetable barge.

Besides the stunning Tiepolesque ceiling crafted by Paolo Veronese, this church is nothing out of the ordinary.

Ponte dei Pugni

Of all the Ponti dei pugni (bridges of fists) in Venice, this is undoubtedly the most renowned.

Towering above the tranquil Rio San Barnaba, the iconic bridge is renowned for its two sets of white stone footprints, a reminder of the fierce battles between warring factions that once occurred there.

Before fences were erected to prevent it, combatants would throw each other into the water below as part of their fight.

The brutal nature of the confrontations became so extreme that they were officially prohibited in 1705.

Squero San Trovaso

This gondolier workshop in Venice is a sight to behold, as it stands out with its Tyrolean-inspired look that dates back to the days when artisans from Cadore in the Dolomites worked here. It’s one of only a few that have managed to survive throughout time.

Although not open to the public, on the distant side of Rio San Trovaso, you can frequently witness gondolas being scraped and tarred. You may even spot a new one under construction; only about ten are created annually.

ACCADEMIA GALLERY

Home to the world’s most extensive collection of Venetian artwork, The Gallerie dell’Accademia is situated in three former religious structures. Established by painter Giovanni Battista Piazzetta in 1750, Napoleon Bonaparte ordered the grounds to be moved here in 1807 and furthered its growth with works taken from churches and monasteries.

7 Facts about the Accademia Gallery in Venice

Established in 1750, the Accademia di Belle Arti of Venice is a higher learning institution promoting tertiary education in fine arts.

• Initially housed in a monastery and church buildings dating back to the 12th century, it was at the end of the 18th century that it adopted its new home: the Gallerie dell’Accademia complex at Santa Maria della Carità.

• Its first president was Gianbattista Piazzetta, who appointed his colleagues from amongst whom four lecturers were chosen to teach figure painting, portrait painting, landscape painting, and sculpture.

• Francesco Costa introduced perspective and architecture classes in 1768. Pietro Edwards authored a conservation contract for protecting public artwork in 1777.

• The institute moved back to Santa Maria della Carità upon Napoleon’s edict in 1807 when it became the state’s property and adopted its new name: Accademia Reale di Belle Arti (Royal academy of fine arts).

• The museum opened to the public in 1817 followed by donations from painters and private collectors which saw its growth over time.

• In 2008, San Servolo island site was established to accommodate teaching activities

---

Great Way to Get Lost in Venice : CANNAREGGIO DISTRICT

Cannareggio, Venice’s most northerly “sestriere”, extends from the twentieth-century railway station in the west to one of its earliest districts in the east.

From the Northern side, marvel at the scenic islands in the Lagoon while admiring the Grand Canal’s splendid upper archway to your South.

The quarter’s name may have stemmed from “Canes” or reeds that grew in this region centuries ago or perhaps originated from its former name, Canal Regio (Royal Canal), now known as Canale di Cannaregio.

Cannaregio is home to a third of Venice’s population. It has remained pristine, with wide canals dividing the area, winding alleys connecting various city areas, and quaint shops and artisan workshops adding to its unique charm. Before railway links connected Venice with the mainland, this waterway was also considered one of Venice’s main entry points.

If you’re searching for an idyllic getaway full of serenity and beauty, look no further than the North’s hidden gem near Madonna dell’Orto church and Campo Dei Mori.

Tourists flock to Venice’s main streets: Lista di Spagna and the broad Strada Nova, which lead directly from the train station to Rialto. Off this route lies one of the oldest ghettos – home to one of the world’s earliest Jewish communities. Though Jews have since spread throughout the city, their presence still imbues Cannareggio with an exquisite sense of history that you should not miss!

---

Cannareggio Street by Street Overview

Surprisingly, only a few tourists discover the untouched northern Cannareggio area.

Away from the glamor and bustle of Venice lies the quieter, more serene side. Here, clotheslines laden with freshly washed laundry drape gently over the canals while rows of crumbling buildings line narrow cobbled streets.

The vast, cobblestoned bank that lines the city is home to small shops and stores selling essential supplies and bars packed with Venetian locals. Among its many cultural attractions stands out the beautiful Gothic church of Madonna dell’Orto, a parish renowned for Tintoretto’s artwork.

---

Ca’ D’Oro

The Ca’ D’Oro, or the House of Gold, is an extraordinary showcase along the Grand Canal and is widely regarded as one of Venice’s finest examples of Gothic architecture.

The ornate ogee windows, lofty pinnacles, and elegant marble tracery of the exterior give it an unmistakable air of Eastern grandeur. However, this storied 15th-century Palace has suffered numerous ups and downs, leaving much inside to be desired. As of 1984, however, it is now home to Giorgio Franchetti’s Collection, which reminds the building’s ancient glory days.

THE GHETTO

In 1516, the Council of Ten issued a ruling that mandated all Jews in Venice to be confined within the Cannaregio islet.
Two canals divided the quarter, and Christian guards stationed at each watergate ensured that all entryways were secure. This area was named “Ghetto” after a Venetian foundry of the same name that had previously stood in this spot.

Afterward, the name “Ghetto” was applied to Jewish neighborhoods all around the globe. During daylight hours, Jews were allowed to leave these areas; however, they were constantly required to wear hats and badges that identified their faith.

With the increasing number of Jews in Venice, their only options for trading were textiles, money lending, and medicine. By the mid-17th century, there was a population explosion with over 5000 people! Consequently, buildings rose vertically – like the iconic “skyscrapers” of Venice – into both Ghetto Vecchio (1541) and its neighboring area Ghetto Nuovissimo (1633).

When Napoleon arrived in 1797, Jews were liberated from their confinement. Nevertheless, this freedom didn’t last long as the Austrians reinstated oppressive regulations against them until 1866 when they finally received complete emancipation.

Of the 500 Jewish citizens residing in Venice today, only a small portion of families live within its Ghetto. Nevertheless, their cultural character continues to this day, from kosher food shops and bakers to libraries and two synagogues where religious rituals still occur regularly.

Step into Campo del Ghetto Nuovo and travel through time to experience a unique culture; here, you can find exclusive trinkets such as glass rabbis and Hanukkah lamps. Remember to bring home something of this unforgettable Venetian journey with you!

---

Arrivederci!

So, there we have it, dear Amici! Our beloved Venice is a city that hides a world of wonders in its shadowy corners and sparkling canals. From the grandeur of St. Mark’s Square to the vibrant life of Rialto, right up to the quiet hush of the Ghetto, it’s clear that every brick and cobblestone in this city tells a story.

So, next time you find yourself wandering Venice’s labyrinthine streets, remember to listen closely. Each whisper of the wind, each gentle lap of the canal water against the gondolas, they’re all part of the symphony that is Venice. Thanks for joining us on this journey, and we can’t wait to see you on the next adventure!