The Grand Canal

Monuments and Attractions around Venice

What you can see along the Grand Canal

Tracing the historical footsteps of Venice, the Grand Canal, or 'Canal Grande', as it is known locally, offers an intriguing journey through time. Once a hub of maritime trade in the medieval and Renaissance periods, it was considered the central artery of the Republic of Venice. The canal's serpentine trail, meandering more like a sensuous woman's body than a road, paints a picturesque image that captures the essence of the city. Regardless of any preconceived notions, no one can resist the grandeur of this iconic waterway, making it one of Venice's most-searched attractions.

Surrounded by the most sumptuous examples of Venetian architecture, the Grand Canal is more than just a water route. It's a floating museum, boasting a wealth of history and culture on its banks. Among these, some of the most famous museums that adorn its winding path include the Fontego dei Turchi, a remarkable Byzantine-style palace that now serves as the Natural History Museum of Venice, and the Palazzo Vendramin Calergi, a distinguished Renaissance building that houses the Venice Casino.

The Ca' Pesaro, a magnificent Baroque palace, is another noteworthy edifice along the Grand Canal. Today, it is renowned for its dual role, hosting the Modern Art Gallery and Oriental Art Museum, ensuring a delightful amalgamation of eastern and western art cultures. A few glides away, you will find the Ca' d'Oro, a perfect example of Venetian Gothic architecture and home to an extensive art collection.

Education also finds its place on the Grand Canal's banks, with the Ca' Foscari serving as the Venice University headquarters. The Ca' Rezzonico, on the other hand, takes you back to the 18th century Venice, with its well-curated museum. For contemporary art enthusiasts, the Palazzo Grassi and the Punta della Dogana, both showcasing François Pinault's collection, offer an unparalleled experience.

An unmissable stop is the Gallerie dell'Accademia. This museum is home to the works of Venetian masters like Tintoretto, Bellini, Tiziano, Carpaccio, and Giorgione, their masterpieces making it a treasure trove of Venetian painting. Last but not least, the Peggy Guggenheim Collection at the Palazzo Venier dei Leoni presents an outstanding assemblage of modern art masterpieces, accentuating the canal's diversity in arts and culture.

The Grand Canal of Venice is more than just a landmark; it's a testament to the city's rich history, a vibrant artistic hub, and an architectural spectacle. It is this blend of history and beauty that makes it a top-rated, globally searched destination. As you navigate its graceful curves, you're not just moving through a body of water; you're traversing a piece of history, a world-class open-air museum, offering an unforgettable atmosphere unlike anywhere else in the world.

Video: Grand Canal from train station to Rialto Bridge

The most famous Museums that surround it

• Fontego dei Turchi
• Palazzo Vendramin Calergi - Casinò
• Ca' Pesaro - Modern Art Gallery and Oriental Art Museum
• Ca' d'Oro
• Ca' Foscari - University
• Ca' Rezzonico - Museum of the eighteenth century
• Palazzo Grassi - collection of contemporary art by François Pinault
• Gallerie dell'Accademia - The most famous Venetian painters from Tintoretto, Bellini, Tiziano, Carpaccio to Giorgione's famous 'Tempest'.
• Collezione Peggy Guggenheim - Palazzo Venier dei Leoni
• Punta della Dogana - collection of contemporary art by François Pinault