Tourists flock thousands blockbuster sites every year for Instagram-ready scenes such as the colourful cottages of Burano, the Piazza San Marco, and the Basilica di San Marco whose aren’t to be missed. Follow that by gliding down the Grand Canal in a gondola and appreciate the majestic palazzos.

However, what if we were to step away from those busier areas just a little where we can appreciate local life and see the hidden Venice? This article will lay out 10 things to see that are slightly off the beaten track for those looking for unique and unusual things to do in Venice.

Venice: Off the beaten track.

Venice is a UNESCO world heritage site  and it’s clear to see why. They say there is a church for every day of the year in Venice, and here are some real hidden gems not on most tourist’s radar and some interesting Venice travel tips :

Giardini Reali: A peaceful retreat.

Surrounded by the old, fortified ramparts, these gardens make for a pleasant respite from the maddening crowds. They are adorned with flowerbeds, statues and fountains and designed in the 17th century by André la Nôtre, who also designed the gardens at Versailles. A great little escape after visiting the Palazzo Reale.  A great way to see a bit of hidden Venice!

The Flooded Crypt of San Zaccaria:

Located underneath the impressive San Zaccaria Church, this is a really unusual hidden attraction in Venice. The crypt beneath the Gothic church has been flooded for centuries and is the resting place of eight of the Doges of Venice, whose tombs appear to float above the water. A rather unusual thing to do in Venice to add to your travel itinerary.

Ghetto Ebraico: A cultural treasure trove.

The Jewish quarter, located within Cannaregio is an interesting neighbourhood in the centre of the city and the first European ‘ghetto’, adorned with five synagogues. It’s a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of this community within Venice. Take a guided tour or stroll the streets at your own pace.

San Francesco della Vigna Church: A place of legends.

To see this little gem, you need to head away from the beaten path and into non tourist Venice territory. The sight of this church was originally a vineyard and is thought to be the place where San Marco shipwrecked and is one of only too Franciscan churches in Venice. A great place to stop and reflect.

Rosa Salva: A delicious little treat.

This little delight is one of Venice’s oldest coffee shops and gelaterias and is worth a stop for the pistachio gelato alone. Sit outside on the large terrace and soak in the atmosphere of this venetian institution, or if you want to blend in with the locals, stand at the bar and drink your coffee. It may not be a Venice secret spot, but it will certainly give you a flavour of local life.

Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo: A spiral wonder.

Although this small palazzo is near San Marco and Rialto it’s still a great little gem and famed for its Scala Contarini del Bovolo. A stunning spiral staircase comprised of 80 monolithic steps that twist counterclockwise and from the top of which you can appreciate spectacular views over Venice. A fascinating secret spot in Venice.

Sotoportego de la Corte Nova: A place of miracles.

This is a small under passage that connects two streets, and within which lies a votive chapel. This is certainly a non-touristy Venice attraction.  According to the legend, when the plague hit a resident drew a picture of the Virgin Mary on the ground and in turn none of the residents got the plague. To this day it is bad luck to step on the stone. A curious little hidden gem and interesting story to add to your travel memoir.

Sant’Andrea Island: A peaceful place.

This Island is often overlooked for the more famed Murano or Torcello, so is often empty of tourists and makes for a great picnic place, in amongst the overgrown gardens of a 17th century fort.

Casino of Venezia: An unexpected curiosity.

Take a wonder to the oldest casino in the world housed in a stunning palace just off Strada Nova. Don’t go expecting Vegas style casinos, but it’s certainly curious!

Basilica S.Maria Gloriosa dei frari: A walk through history.

  Located in the Saint Paulo district in amongst a maze of venetian terraces. Centuries of history have left their mark on this fascinating place of worship, including a WW1 bomb that didn’t detonate, fascinating artworks and the tombs of famous venetians.

A colourful sunrise: Enjoy a moment of peace.

On a final note, if you want a moment of Venice to yourself before the crowds descend, you could get up early and see the sunrise from Riva Degli Schiavoni promenade next to the doge’s Palace. Also, note that a traghetto is a fraction of the price of a Gondola and it’s the local’s preferred method of travelling.

Whether if you are a first time traveller to Venice or you have seen all the main sites and wish to delve a little deeper into what this wonderful city has to offer, you won’t be disappointed by this magical floating city.

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