Hidden gems of Venice: a journey across the water to the city’s secret soul

There’s a side of Venice you won’t find on postcards: a floating city made of silence, hidden corners, and small islands untouched by mass tourism, waiting to be discovered. The real wonder of Venice isn’t only in iconic landmarks like St. Mark’s Square or the Doge’s Palace, but in the misty beauty of the lagoon, along quiet alleys and hidden campielli.

If you dream of immersing yourself in something more authentic, far from the usual routes, here’s your chance to explore the hidden gems of Venice. In this article, we’ve gathered some of the city’s most peaceful, lesser-known spots by following the advice of local tour operators, like Top Venice, who know exactly how to guide you off the beaten path and into the Venice most visitors never get to see.

Exploring Venice’s hidden gems often means sailing across the lagoon, where the pace slows down and the landscape takes on a more poetic rhythm. Some islands are barely visible through the morning mist, others are simply waiting for travelers like you, curious and ready to experience a more authentic side of the city.

Here are a few quiet islands worth adding to your itinerary:

• Sant’Erasmo - known as Venice’s countryside, here you can stroll among small gardens, open fields, and rustic farmhouses. It’s the ideal destination for those who love rural scenery and local produce, and for anyone searching for a quieter, greener version of Venice.

• San Francesco del Deserto - a small island home to an ancient monastery surrounded by cypress trees and birdsong. It’s a place of serenity and spiritual depth, perfect for those seeking a timeless, contemplative moment.

• Le Vignole, an island loved by locals for quiet weekend walks or a picnic by the water. Among its wooden bridges and weeping willows, even the most casual moment becomes memorable.

• Mazzorbo – connected to Burano by a wooden footbridge, this lesser-known island is rich in history and greenery, offering vineyards, quiet paths, and colorful houses without the crowds.

• San Michele – Venice’s island cemetery, where composers, poets, and artists like Igor Stravinsky and Ezra Pound are buried. Peaceful and dignified, it’s a place of reflection among tall cypress trees.

We suggest reaching these magical places by water limo, to avoid the crowds and enjoy a slower, more refined way of discovering the islands. Choose your route and take your time: these are destinations for those who prefer depth over speed!

You don’t need to leave Venice to find its hidden gems. Sometimes, all it takes is turning down a quieter alley or straying from the main path. That doesn’t mean skipping famous sights, but rather complementing them with something more personal.

For example, near the Rialto Bridge you can explore the Jewish Ghetto, in the heart of Cannaregio, with its powerful and moving history. Walking through its quiet squares and visiting the Jewish Museum offers a unique opportunity to deepen your understanding of Venice’s past. A few steps away, stop at Ponte de Chiodo, one of the last bridges in Venice without a railing: perfect for a glimpse of everyday life.

A short walk from there takes you to Castello, a spacious and authentic district often overlooked by tourists. Here you’ll find:

• The ancient cathedral of San Pietro di Castello, once the city’s religious heart

• Quiet gardens and shaded courtyards perfect for a slow, thoughtful walk

• The whimsical Libreria Acqua Alta, a bookshop filled with stacks of books tucked into bathtubs, gondolas, and barrels to protect them from high tides.

If you’re looking for a panoramic view away from the crowds, head over to Dorsoduro. Here you’ll find one of Venice’s most scenic spots: the Scala Contarini del Bovolo, a spiral staircase that offers a unique perspective over the rooftops. Nearby, the calm area of San Trovaso offers charming bridges and artisan workshops, perfect for a peaceful afternoon walk.

Looking for more off-the-path ideas? Try Santa Croce, San Polo, or Santo Stefano - each with their own quiet beauty and stories waiting to be uncovered.

Practical Tips for exploring Venice’s hidden gems

If you’re planning to explore a quieter, more authentic side of Venice, a few local insights can make all the difference. Here are some practical tips - based on the experience of those who know the city beyond the surface:

• Best time to go: spring and autumn are ideal for visiting. The weather is mild, the light on the lagoon is unforgettable, and even the busiest areas are more relaxed.

• How to get around: use a vaporetto to reach the less touristy sestieri, then explore on foot. For the islands, consider a private water limo for a more comfortable, crowd-free experience.

• What to bring: comfortable shoes are essential. And if you plan to visit churches or monasteries, pack a scarf or shawl to respect local dress codes.

• When to explore: some of Venice’s most visited places can feel completely different at the right moment. Try heading out early in the morning or after sunset: even a place as busy as Rialto becomes a hidden gem when seen in the soft light of dawn, almost empty and unexpectedly quiet.

Whether you’re drawn to the quiet rhythm of the lagoon or the stories hidden in Venice’s backstreets, this city always has more to reveal - if you know where to look.