What to do in San Nicolo

Activities, attractions and tours

San Nicolo
Photo by Julie Hanham
Photo by Julie Hanham
Photo "San Nicolo" by Jean-Pierre Dalbéra (CC BY) / Cropped from original
Photo by Jean-Pierre Dalbéra (CC BY)
Photo "San Nicolo" by Lothar John (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo by Lothar John (CC BY-SA)
Photo "San Nicolo" by Archaeodontosaurus (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo by Archaeodontosaurus (CC BY-SA)
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Top places to visit

1. St. Mark's Square

Step into Venice’s most famous square and expect to be impressed by the opulence of St. Mark’s Basilica, the towering Campanile, and the gothic façade of the Doge’s Palace. This lively hub has been the focal point for Venetian life for over 10 centuries. Enjoy a drink in one of the cafés under the colonnaded arcade that lines the square or visit its most iconic buildings.
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St. Mark\'s Square which includes heritage architecture and a square or plaza as well as a large group of people

2. Grand Canal

The Grand Canal is Venice’s famous S-shaped thoroughfare. On any given day you can hear the splashing of the oars of the gondolas that slowly traverse the city just as they have done for centuries. A trip in a gondola is almost unavoidable because there are very few sidewalks along the canal, and the backs of the Floating City’s buildings drop straight into the water. A more modern and faster way to see the Grand Canal, and the main tourist attractions alongside it, is by vaporetto (water bus). For a simple crossing, take a traghetto, a ferry on which you remain standing for the duration of the short trip.
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Grand Canal which includes a ferry, a city and a marina

3. Rialto Bridge

When riding a vaporetto (water bus) or gondola along the Grand Canal, look up as you round the bend by the fish market: One of Venice’s most iconic sights appears before you. The Rialto Bridge (Ponte di Rialto) has been a feature of the city since the late 1500s. It has a distinctive V-shape design, high stone arcades and balustrades from which tourists peek at the gondolas in the canal below.
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Rialto Bridge featuring heritage architecture, a lake or waterhole and a bridge

4. St. Mark's Basilica

Approach St. Mark’s Square from any angle and, on a fine day, you’ll see the golden spires of St. Mark’s Basilica (Basilica San Marco) glimmer in the sunlight. This is why the locals call this the Chiesa d’Oro (Church of Gold). As you get closer, you’ll see the many sculptures, reliefs and mosaics of the ornate facade. This church is a spectacular example of Byzantine architecture.
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St. Mark\'s Basilica showing heritage architecture, religious elements and a church or cathedral

5. Doge's Palace

The pink marble façade of the 14th-century Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale) is a striking sight on St. Mark’s Square. The arched loggias and the fortress-like peaks on top of the walls convey a sense of wealth and power to those who approach Venice by sea. Every aspect of this building was designed to impress, from the imposing décor of the Hall of the Great Council, to the luxurious apartments.
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Doge\'s Palace featuring street scenes and heritage elements

What to do in San Nicolo

Popular places to visit

St. Mark\'s Square which includes a square or plaza, heritage architecture and a city

St. Mark's Square

Experience the timeless charm of Venice’s glorious heart, home to the city’s most famous cultural icons, many cafés ... and several thousand pigeons.

St. Mark's Square
Grand Canal which includes a ferry, a city and a marina

Grand Canal

Venice’s famous canal winds through the city and brings you to nearly all of its world-famous attractions. Hop in a gondola or vaporetto to take it all in!

Grand Canal
Rialto Bridge

Rialto Bridge

Take a stroll across Venice’s oldest and most iconic bridge for romantic views, souvenir shopping and street entertainment.

Rialto Bridge
Port of Venice

Port of Venice

Explore the waterfront of Port of Venice and enjoy other activities such as boating in Venice. Experience the area's acclaimed art galleries and fascinating museums.

Port of Venice
St. Mark\'s Basilica which includes heritage architecture

St. Mark's Basilica

Gilded mosaics, a jewel-encrusted screen and magnificent Byzantine architecture make this cathedral one of the most stunning attractions in Venice.

St. Mark's Basilica
Doge's Palace

Doge's Palace

This grand building was home to Venice’s rulers for centuries and is still a statement of wealth and power.

Doge's Palace
Lido of Venice Beaches

Lido of Venice Beaches

Why not spend a care-free afternoon at Lido of Venice Beaches during your travels in Venice? Visit the stunning cathedral and charming cafes in this romantic area.

Lido of Venice Beaches
La Fenice Opera House featuring a city and heritage architecture

Teatro La Fenice

Tour the lavish interior of one of Italy's most prestigious music venues then enjoy an evening of classic or experimental opera.

Teatro La Fenice
St Mark\'s Campanile featuring heritage architecture

St Mark's Campanile

Enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views from the top of this landmark bell tower, where Galileo once made his name.

St Mark's Campanile

Day trip destinations from San Nicolo

Grand Canal featuring heritage architecture, a lake or waterhole and kayaking or canoeing

Venice

Frequently asked questions

Is San Nicolo worth visiting?
San Nicolo offers a unique blend of attractions, local charm and culture. Whether you're into history, the outdoors or regional cuisine, there's a lot here to enjoy.
How do I spend a day in San Nicolo?
When you've checked off leading attractions like Lungomare d'Annunzio Beach, spend the rest of your day experiencing the retail and food scene in San Nicolo.
What is the top tourist attraction in San Nicolo?
Lungomare d'Annunzio Beach is ranked the top tourist attraction near San Nicolo, so don't go home without checking it out.
Is three days enough to stay in San Nicolo?
With a three-day holiday in San Nicolo, you can easily discover the area's many awesome sights, including Lungomare d'Annunzio Beach and Palazzo Pisani Moretta.
Is San Nicolo a walkable neighbourhood?
If you love walking, San Nicolo is ideal. You can reach leading attractions like Lungomare d'Annunzio Beach and Palazzo Pisani Moretta on foot. At 5 kilometers from the centre, the neighbourhood of Venice City Centre is also close enough for a good stroll. The same goes for San Marco, around 5 kilometers away.
What are some activities to do in San Nicolo with kids?
If you're looking for sights and activities for all ages, take a look at these fabulous ideas for what to do in San Nicolo with kids.

What to do in San Nicolo for adults?
There are loads of things to do in San Nicolo, with entertainment for adults of all ages. Cap off your day with a visit to Riva degli Schiavoni.
Are there free things to do in San Nicolo?
Near San Nicolo, Lungomare d'Annunzio Beach is an excellent spot for anyone wanting to experience the area without dipping into their wallet. Also, wander through parks and other neighbourhoods, and don't hesitate to ask a local tour guide for advice. It's a great way to find out about the most popular free things to do in San Nicolo.