On vacation in the Venetian region? Discover the best places to go out in Venice!
Capital of the Veneto region, Venice is known the world over for its hundreds of canals, palaces and impressive architecture. In addition to its rich cultural and artistic heritage, the city of the Doges is full of bars and restaurants where you can enjoy a good time with friends. So if you don’t know where to go during your stay, Generation Voyage has put together a guide to the best places to go out in Venice. Let the party begin!
1. Castello, a historical landmark
Entrance to Venice’s arsenal – Photo credit: Shutterstock – pixinoo
Where to go out in Venice, day or night? Head to the eastern end of the city to explore the Castello district. During the day, discover the many religious monuments to be found here, including the Church of Zanipolo, the Church of San Francesco della Vigna and the Church of San Giorgio degli Schiavoni. The city’s largest district is also home toVenice’s arsenal, with its immense shipyards.
In the evening, it’s time to head to the bars on Via Garibaldi or Riva dei Setti Martiri for a typically Venetian aperitif: a spritz accompanied by cicchetti.
2. Cannaregio, the typical place
Photo credit: Shutterstock – pio3
Where to go out in Venice without breaking the bank? Located in the north of the city of the Doges, the Cannaregio district is perfect for those on a budget. Away from the tourist circuits, this district offers a popular atmosphere for total immersion in local culture. During your visit, explore the ghetto between the Cannaregio canal and the rio della Misericordi. This is the city’s Jewish quarter, with its magnificent synagogues.
For a shopping session, head for Strata Nuova, which connects to the Santa Lucia train station. Here, you’ll find a host of stores selling clothes, handicrafts, souvenirs, jewelry and much more.
And for the evening, the Fondamenta della Misericordia quay is the place to be. Here, numerous Venetian terraces offer spritzers and other delicious cocktails.
3. The Grand Canal, the romantic quarter
Photo credit: Shutterstock – S.Borisov
If you love walking, take a stroll along the Grand Canal, one of the most beautiful avenues in Italy, and indeed in the world. All around, the greatest palaces and other buildings of the city of the Doges blend into the scenery. Don’t forget to bring your camera along for the ride. The scenery is exceptional, whatever the time of day.
As the Grand Canal is very popular with tourists, we advise you to visit in the evening to fully appreciate its unusual atmosphere. If you need a break from the long walk, don’t hesitate to stop at one of the canal terraces, while sipping a spritz.
4. Venice Jazz Club
Photo credit: Flickr – Rui Ornelas
Where can you go for jazz in Venice? Visit the Venice Jazz Club, a must-see venue in the city of the Doges. Almost every day, jazz concerts take over the premises for music lovers. This intimate venue welcomes spectators who can sit back and enjoy the live music.
The club’s musicians are among the best in the city, and indeed the entire region. When you arrive, the staff will take your order so you can enjoy the music while sipping a delicious Italian wine. And rest assured, your ticket to the show includes a drink.
Before attending the concert, you can enjoy dinner at this unique venue in Venice. The Venice Jazz Club doesn’t claim to be a restaurant, yet their menu is complete with vegetarian options.
5. Dorsoduro, a benchmark
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Gozzoli
When it comes to going out in Venice, the Dorsoduro district is probably one of the best places to have a drink. Almost always bustling, the district is a tangle of narrow streets that give it all its charm. Above all, Dorsuduro is home to the great monuments of local art, including the Galleria dell’Accademia and the Peggy Guggenheim Museum.
In the evening, take a seat on one of the terraces along the Zattere quays. Here, you can sip a spritz while admiring the view of Guidecca Island. And if you’re feeling peckish, try Italian specialties at Ristorante La Bitta or Al Vecio Marangon.
6. Campo Santa Margherita, the university town
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Martin Charles Hatch
Where to go out in Venice for a student atmosphere? Located next to the university, Campo Santa Margherita welcomes Venetians and internationals alike. The area is packed with inexpensive bars to the delight of the city’s party-goers.
One of the must-sees is the Bar Orange, offering delicious cocktails and an impressive selection of wines and beers. Whatever your taste, you’re sure to enjoy the beverages at this colorful establishment… orange, of course. In the background, the bar offers house music to get Venetians and other visitors ready to dance the night away.
7. Piazza San Marco, a must-see
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Kert
It’s impossible to go out in Venice without exploring one of the city’s most visited landmarks. St. Mark’s Square welcomes tourists throughout the day and night. And with good reason: it’s home to some of the city’s most beautiful monuments. Here you’ll find the famous basilica, the Ducal Palace, the Campanile, the Correr Museum and much more.
In addition to its historic establishments, the square is also packed with bars and restaurants, each more refined than the last. One of the most famous places in the area is the Caffè Florian, where you can admire the incredible elegance of the place. And, of course, enjoy a delicious Italian coffee and pastry.
8. Rialto Market
Photo credit: Shutterstock – lulu and isabelle
During the day, the Rialto market offers a host of stalls selling fruit, vegetables, fish and other fresh produce. In the evening, it’s the bars that await visitors for a drink in a great local atmosphere.
And if you’re lucky enough to visit Venice in February during its famous Carnival, this is where a DJ stage takes place.
9. Mestre or Margheran, the outskirts
In the center of Mestre – Photo credit: Shutterstock – Christian Vinces
Where to go out in Venice until the early hours? The city of the Doges is not known for its lively nightlife. So if you’re in the mood to party all night long, we recommend going a little off the beaten track.
To do this, take a bus to Mestre or Marghera. Here, you’re on dry land, and you’re more likely to find discotheques open until very late. Among the must-sees are Al Vapore, with its wide variety of musical styles, and Rivolta, with its reggae atmosphere.