The 5 most beautiful districts of Venice

Enjoy this little journey to discover the most beautiful districts of the Serenissima and what makes them so characteristic

Drawing up the ranking of the most beautiful districts in Venice is a difficult task to say the least. Although united by the unique and inimitable atmosphere of the Serenissima, each of the neighborhoods has a history and features that make it special. For this reason, some are the favorites of tourists, others are the object of the desire of those who choose to buy a house and live in one of the most popular cities in the world.

Which ones are they? Let's find out together with the experts from Engel & Volkers which are the most beautiful neighborhoods in Venice and what makes them so spectacular.

DORSODURO AND ITS BREATHTAKING VIEWS

If the houses for sale in Venice Dorsoduro are the most desired in the city, it is not absolutely accidental.

The reason is that it is a district with an absolutely privileged position, well served and connected, prestigious and, at the same time, quiet and residential. But that is not all. Why is Dorsoduro one of the most beautiful areas of Venice? Without doubt for the panoramic views it offers to tourists and city dwellers. Just think of the Giudecca islands that extend right in front of Dorsoduro and San Marco.

According to a local saying, the island was built by the Venetians precisely so that from there you could admire Venice and its lagoon in all their splendor. Just be a spectator at a sunset overlooking the bell tower of San Marco to fall madly in love with it.

SAN POLO AND THE MAGIC OF THE RIALTO MARKETS

Although it is the smallest and, perhaps, the least known, San Polo is one of the most interesting districts of Venice. The atmosphere that reigns is conquering: a quiet residential area full of well-kept houses and small shops that contribute to making the whole area absolutely picturesque and lively.

In particular, the sestiere enjoys the excitement that revolves around the Campo di San Polo, the second largest square in the city, and the Rialto Bridge, known all over the world. Walking through its streets, you can only let yourself be conquered by the magic of the Rialto market, a historic place that has represented the soul of the city trade since 1097, now housed in the splendid Palazzo della Pescaria.

Even today it is an unmissable stop for any visitor who wishes to get in touch with the most authentic Venetian tradition, breathing in the historicity of the place and coming into contact with the best of local food and wine.

CASTLE AND THE GREEN HEART OF THE CITY

Venice is for everyone the city of water, the Pearl of the Lagoon that winds its way through streets and canals. Yet, it also contains a small heritage of green spaces. In particular, the Castello district, one of the least touristy in Venice, is famous for its splendid secret gardens that embellish ancient courtyards of noble palaces or the courtyards of churches and convents.

A few examples? The beautiful gardens of Spazio Thetis at the Arsenale Basins which often host contemporary art exhibitions, or the beautiful Serra dei Giardini with its exotic plants and its Art Nouveau tepidarium, without forgetting the hidden gardens of the Church of San Francesco della Vigna, still managed by the Ordine dei frati minori and mainly cultivated with vineyards.

In short, small oases of greenery and tranquility just waiting to be discovered in one of the most beautiful districts of Venice.

SAN MARCO AND THE HISTORY OF VENICE

When it comes to Venice, one cannot help but think of its bell tower and its winged lion. For this reason, San Marco is certainly the oldest and most representative district of the city. Each corner is rich in history and tells the glories of a past made of splendor, wealth and traditions, known and loved all over the world for its beauty and peculiarities.

It is no coincidence that it is also the richest and most luxurious district, with stately homes and prestigious apartments, as well as with luxury shops and the most refined and renowned venues in Venice. All without forgetting the presence of the main Venetian attractions and places of artistic and cultural interest, such as the homonymous Piazza San Marco and its Basilica, the Clock Tower, the Bridge of Sighs or the majestic La Fenice Theater. Just stroll through the streets of this symbolic district of Venice to be projected into the ancient splendor of the Serenissima.

CANNAREGIO AND ITS VITALITY

Cannaregio certainly cannot be missing from the list of the most beautiful districts in Venice to live and visit. This is the largest and most densely populated district of the city, easily reachable from the station and well connected to other strategic points in the area.

Letting yourself be enchanted by the Cannaregio district is a moment walking the melancholy streets of the famous Jewish Ghetto, one of the oldest and richest in history areas, admiring the beautiful bridges that dot the canals, but also letting yourself be carried away by the vitality of one of the most lively neighborhoods ever. 

The Strada Nova, one of the main pedestrian arteries, famous and appreciated as a shopping street and for its many clubs, acts as a backdrop for the evenings of tourists and Venetians. The best way to better enjoy a typical Venetian night? Treat yourself to an aperitif with cicchetti in one of the many bacari in the neighborhood and let yourself be captivated by the explosion of flavors of the many Venetian specialties.

In love with Venice and its splendid districts? Discover our houses for sale still available.