Ahh, lovely Venice! The capital of northern Italy’s Veneto region is a timeless favourite, built on more than 100 small islands in a lagoon in the Adriatic Sea. Its romantic canals, elegant palazzi, and centuries of rich history make it one of the most beautiful cities in Europe—if not the world!
But for all its iconic gondolas and grand bridges, I quickly discovered that Venice has so much more to offer beneath the surface. Beyond the postcard-perfect sights lies a quieter, more intimate side—one filled with hidden courtyards, secret dining experiences, creative locals, and colourful island getaways.
On my recent trip, I set out to find the lesser-known gems—the places that made me feel like I’d stumbled onto something truly special. From a secret supper club to a lace-draped island and a dreamy canalside bookstore, here are my 9 favourite hidden gems in Venice that I think every curious traveller should know about….
1. Burano Island – Venice’s Most Colourful Hidden Gem
Dubbed one of the most colourful places in the world, Burano still somehow feels like a charming under-the-radar escape in Venice. To me, it felt like stepping onto an island that time forgot.
When I arrived, I was instantly taken by the rows of brightly painted houses reflecting beautifully in the glimmering lagoon, each one in bold candy shades—think cherry red, lemon yellow, and turquoise blue. It was a truly magical sight, especially with small boats bobbing gently at the moorings.
But what I loved most was Burano’s lace-making tradition, which I found just as captivating as Murano’s famous glasswork. As I strolled the island’s narrow streets, I was welcomed by elderly local women who warmly invited me into their shops to admire their handmade lace creations—each one a delicate work of art passed down through generations.
There were also plenty of pretty cafés and trattorias where I stopped for an espresso and watched island life go by. And yes, Burano even has its own leaning tower, which I had fun exploring—it added to the island’s wonderfully quirky character.
To me, this little technicolour island felt like Italy’s own “Little Italy”—authentic, welcoming, and filled with personality.
At a Quick Glance: Visiting Burano Island
- Location: 45-minute vaporetto ride from central Venice
- Known For: Brightly coloured houses, lace-making tradition, peaceful local vibe
- Must-Do: Visit lace shops, stroll the canals, grab espresso at a waterfront café, see the leaning tower
- My Top Tip: Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid tour groups and soak up the quiet charm
2. A Traditional Sailor’s Supper In The Venetian Lagoon
On this trip, I was craving something more intimate than a traditional restaurant as well as being an authentic Italian experience, – something that felt truly Venetian. So I booked a seat with EatWith which was a private dining experience in beautiful local home.
The night was run and hosted by the charismatic Massimo, I loved that he was one of those rare characters you don’t forget. He’s proudly carrying on a long family tradition as a Venetian sailor—possibly the last in his line—and as his guest I could see just how much it meant to him.
He hosted us for the evening in his ornate Venetian home while we were served up old-school Venetian comfort food, filled with fresh catches and dishes that generations of seafarers would have ended their days with. It felt simple, soulful, and deeply local!
Being a vegetarian I started with a dreamy Risotto al Limone, bursting with fresh local citrus and topped with a delicate sprinkle of parsley. It reminded me of the kind of comforting dishes my mum used to make. Dessert was just as divine: a Torta Veneziana al Pistacchio, rich and soft, topped with a dusting of powdered sugar.
We sipped on Soave Classico, a light, crisp white wine from the Veneto region that carried lovely hints of green apple and almond – perfect with the meal.
What made it all the more special was the live piano accompaniment during dinner—gentle, melodic, and completely unexpected. I’d heard that on other nights the supper club hosts everything from musicians to artists, and I loved that the experience evolves with each visit.
To me, this wasn’t just dinner—it was an immersive, a real once-in-a-lifetime evening which I felt the captured the creative soul of Venice.
At a Glance: A Traditional Sailor’s Supper
- Host: Massimo, a proud Venetian sailor with deep family roots in maritime tradition
- Setting: A traditional boat in the Venetian lagoon—intimate, authentic, and full of character
- What’s Served: A hearty, home-style dinner featuring traditional sailor-inspired Venetian seafood dishes
- Experience Type: Cultural dining experience with storytelling, history, and a strong local feel
- Highlights:
- Fresh local cuisine cooked the Venetian way
- Stories of life at sea from a true local
- A peaceful escape from the tourist crowds
- Duration: Approximately 2.5–3 hours
- My Top Tip: Dress warmly depending on the season—it can get breezy on the water!
- Book It: Available on Tripadvisor
3. The Island of Sant’Andrea
I learned that during Venice’s heyday—when it was one of the wealthiest and most powerful trading empires in the world—it needed serious protection. So in the 16th century, the impressive Forte di Sant’Andrea was built to defend the lagoon from naval attacks, especially from pirates and rival powers.
I visited the island to explore the fort and loved how peaceful and untouched it felt. The fortress itself still stands strong, though much of the surrounding island has become wonderfully overgrown and wild, which only added to its atmosphere. It’s one of those places where you can almost hear the echo of history in the stillness.
I brought a picnic and found a quiet spot with beautiful lagoon views—it was the perfect place to escape the tourist crowds and watch the world go by for a while. It might not be perfectly polished, but that’s part of what made it feel like a true hidden gem to me.
At a Glance: The Island of Sant’Andrea
- Location: Venetian Lagoon, near the island of Vignole
- Historical Significance: Home to the 16th-century Forte di Sant’Andrea, a Renaissance military fortress designed by architect Michele Sanmicheli
- Architectural Highlights: Features a central round bastion with positions for large guns, designed to protect Venice from naval incursions
- Notable Events: The fortress fired its guns in defense of Venice in 1797 against Napoleon’s forces
- Current Status: Partially restored; the façade and central tower have been stabilized, while other areas remain overgrown
- Access: Accessible by private boat; no official tours or facilities available
- Experience: Ideal for history enthusiasts and those seeking a tranquil escape from Venice’s bustling tourist spots
4. Libreria Acqua Alta
Calling all book lovers (and curious wanderers)! Tucked away in a quiet corner of Venice, Libreria Acqua Alta quickly became one of the most memorable hidden gems I discovered on my trip.
I loved how the store was completely shaped by Venice’s challenges—especially the frequent flooding. Instead of fighting it, they leaned in: books are stacked in bathtubs, waterproof bins, and even old gondolas, turning what could’ve been a disaster into something truly quirky and unforgettable.
The moment I stepped inside, I was in awe. Narrow pathways wound through towering stacks of books—everything from dog-eared novels and rare volumes to glossy travel guides, vintage magazines, and colourful maps. It had the musty scent of well-loved pages, mixed with a faint salty sea breeze from the nearby canal.
And then there were the details: a staircase made entirely of water-damaged books in the courtyard (yes, you can climb it!), a gondola parked right in the middle of the store, and a content-looking shop cat who had taken up residence between travel memoirs and philosophy texts.
To me, this place wasn’t just a bookstore—it was a tribute to Venetian resilience and creativity, and a dreamy little escape from the crowds.
At a Glance: Libreria Acqua Alta
- Location: Calle Longa Santa Maria Formosa, Castello district, Venice
- Name Meaning: “Library of High Water” (named after Venice’s seasonal flooding)
- What Makes It Unique: Books stored in bathtubs, gondolas, and waterproof bins; a book-staircase out back
- Atmosphere: Cosy, chaotic, nostalgic, and full of character
- What You’ll Find: New and second-hand books (Italian & English), vintage maps, postcards, a resident cat
- My Top Tip: Climb the book staircase in the courtyard for a unique photo (and canal view)
5. A Secret Wine Tour – Sipping Like a Local
One of the things I really wanted to do on this trip was experience Venice the way locals do—beyond the canals and iconic sights. And what better way than through food and wine?
So I joined a “Local Secrets of Venice” Wine Walking Tour, and it turned out to be one of my absolute favourite experiences.
Our guide took us down quiet alleyways and across tucked-away bridges into the heart of bacaro culture (those are traditional Venetian wine bars, for the uninitiated). At each stop, we sipped different wines and paired them with cicchetti—small, tasty snacks that reminded me of Italian tapas. There were fried bites, seafood skewers, polenta with cheeses, and even little open sandwiches topped with seasonal goodies.
I loved how the wine was served in small glasses called ombre, a true Venetian tradition that dates back to when wine was sold from carts that followed the shade (ombra means “shadow” in Italian). The story behind it was just as charming as the drink itself!
We also tasted spritzes, which were light, fizzy, and a little bitter—exactly what I needed after walking through the sun-drenched calli all afternoon.
Aside from the food and drink, I really enjoyed the slow pace and hidden corners we explored—places I’d never have found on my own. It was the kind of experience that made me feel like I was part of Venice for a little while, not just passing through.
At a Glance: Secret Wine Tour of Venice
- Experience Name: Local Secrets of Venice: Wine & Cicchetti Walking Tour
- What’s Included: 3+ traditional bacaro visits, 6–8 cicchetti (Venetian small bites), multiple wine tastings (ombre, prosecco, and spritz)
- Led By: Local food and wine expert
- Atmosphere: Casual, social, off the tourist trail
- Duration: ~2.5–3 hours
- My Top Tip: Go hungry—and ask for wine pairing tips at each stop!
6. Listen to Vivaldi – A Goosebump-Inducing Baroque Experience
Even if you’re not usually a classical music fan, I highly recommend experiencing Vivaldi in Venice—because honestly, it gave me full-body goosebumps.
I booked a seat at a concert by the Venice Baroque Orchestra, held inside the Church of San Vidal, a beautifully atmospheric 17th-century church-turned-concert hall. With its high ceilings, candlelit glow, and rich acoustics, the setting alone felt like stepping back in time.
The orchestra performed a vivid and passionate rendition of Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, and to me, it sounded exactly how it should in the city where the composer was born. The strings were lively and expressive, and the music seemed to bounce off the marble walls and swirl through the air.
What made it even more special was the setting—San Vidal sits just at the edge of the Grand Canal, and I arrived as the sun was setting, casting golden light on the old stones. It was one of those magical travel moments that completely surprised me with how moving it was.
If you’re looking for something a bit different to do one evening, I can’t recommend this enough. It felt like a quiet pause in a busy trip—and a deep, beautiful connection to Venice’s cultural roots.
At a Glance: Listening to Vivaldi in Venice
- Where: Church of San Vidal, near Campo Santo Stefano
- Who Performs: Venice Baroque Orchestra, Interpreti Veneziani, and other classical ensembles
- What You’ll Hear: Baroque masterpieces, including Vivaldi’s Four Seasons
- Atmosphere: Intimate, candlelit, and acoustically rich
- Duration: ~1 hour
- Top Tip: Arrive early for good seats and soak up the ambience of the church before the music begins
- Tickets: Book online or at the door (but they do sell out in peak season)
7. The Waterside Bars – the City’s Best Views with a Glass in Hand
One of my favourite things to do in Venice was simply to sit with a drink, watch the boats glide past, and soak up the beauty of the canals—and thankfully, there are loads of gorgeous waterside bars where you can do just that.
My top pick? El Chioschetto, a wonderfully low-key spot on the Zattere with stunning views of the Giudecca Canal. I loved the laid-back vibe—just a kiosk, a few seats, and that million-dollar view. It was the perfect place to sip something chilled and watch the sun dance on the water.
Another favourite was Vincent Bar, where I caught one of the prettiest sunsets of my trip, glass of prosecco in hand. It felt romantic and peaceful without trying too hard.
For something more hidden, I stumbled upon Taverna del Campiello Remer—a bit of a secret spot tucked away in a quiet courtyard. It had a great happy hour, a really cosy jetty over the canal, and felt like a total escape from the tourist buzz.
Osteria Bancogiro near the Rialto Bridge was great too—I could sip wine while watching all the action on the Grand Canal from its terrace tables. And on my final day, I treated myself to a drink at L’Ombra del Leone, located inside Ca’ Giustinian. It was surprisingly affordable considering it had one of the best terrace views in Venice, overlooking the Chiesa della Salute and Punta della Dogana.
At a Glance: Venice’s Best Waterside Bars
- El Chioschetto: Relaxed kiosk bar on the Zattere with canal views
- Vincent Bar: Great prosecco + sunset spot
- Taverna del Campiello Remer: Hidden gem with canal-side jetty & happy hour
- Osteria Bancogiro: Lively vibe with a terrace near Rialto Bridge
- L’Ombra del Leone: Gorgeous terrace views without the splurge
- Top Tip: Go around golden hour for the best light and atmosphere (and fewer crowds!)
8. Corte del Volto Santo – A Peaceful Square Steeped in Mystery
I stumbled across this little courtyard entirely by accident—and I’m so glad I did. Tucked away from the bustle of the city, Corte del Volto Santo instantly charmed me with its quiet atmosphere and timeless beauty.
Back at my hotel, I did a bit of research and discovered this unassuming square has deep historical roots. It dates all the way back to 1360 when it was home to the Confraternita dei Lucchesi, a fraternity of wealthy silk merchants who had migrated from Lucca.
The square was named after the “Volto Santo” (Holy Face)—a replica of the revered crucifix in Lucca’s Cathedral of San Martino. The emblem of the fraternity, representing the face of Christ, still marks the area today, lending it a sense of spiritual significance and quiet reverence.
What I loved most, though, was the stillness. It was like stepping into a secret chapter of Venice’s story—no crowds, no noise, just beautifully aged buildings, a soft light filtering through the narrow alleys, and a feeling that I’d truly found something special. It’s the kind of place that makes you pause… and breathe.
At a Glance: Corte del Volto Santo
- Location: Hidden courtyard in the San Polo district of Venice
- Historical Significance: Former site of the Confraternita dei Lucchesi (est. 1360)
- Named After: “Volto Santo” (Holy Face) crucifix from Lucca
- Vibe: Quiet, atmospheric, and filled with subtle beauty
- Why It’s Special: A secret corner with spiritual roots, away from the crowds
- My Top Tip: Bring a coffee and just sit for a few minutes—it’s a perfect pocket of calm in Venice
9. Ca’Zappa – A Curious Slice of the Netherlands in the Venetian Lagoon!
This one completely surprised me. I’d never heard of Ca’Zappa before my trip, but as soon as I saw it—this striking, red-brick building rising unexpectedly from the lagoon—I knew I had to learn more.
Located on a small private island, Ca’Zappa looks like it belongs in the Dutch countryside rather than the Venetian Lagoon. I later found out it was actually designed in the 1920s by a Dutch architect, Mario Malvezzi, during an era of artistic experimentation—and it shows. With its gabled roofs, tall windows, and a watchtower overlooking the lagoon, the building felt completely out of place in the most fascinating way.
I visited on a guided tour and wandered around the unusual complex, which included a main villa, the iconic tower, and lush surrounding grounds. The views from the top of the tower were incredible—panoramic stretches of water, shimmering in the afternoon light, and barely a soul in sight.
To my delight, I also discovered that famous names like Ernest Hemingway and Salvador Dalí had once visited this curious little retreat. That totally added to its offbeat allure!
Although it’s privately owned, you can still book a tour, and I’d definitely recommend it if you love unusual architecture, quiet hidden corners, or just the thrill of discovering something most visitors miss.
At a Glance: Ca’Zappa
- Location: In the Venetian Lagoon, near Chioggia (accessible by boat)
- Architecture Style: Dutch-inspired villa with gables, porticos, and a tall watchtower
- Built By: Mario Malvezzi, between 1923–1928
- Why It’s Unique: A rare Northern European-style home in the Italian lagoon
- Famous Visitors: Ernest Hemingway, Salvador Dalí
- How to Visit: Book a guided tour (private access only); best explored by boat
- My Top Tip: Climb the tower for gorgeous panoramic views and bring a camera—the light here is magical!
My Final Thoughts
Venice will always be one of the world’s most iconic cities—but what I truly loved on this trip was discovering the quieter corners, the unexpected stories, and the little places that made me feel like I’d unlocked a more intimate, local side of La Serenissima.
From sipping wine in tucked-away bacari and getting goosebumps during Vivaldi in a candlelit church, to wandering colourful islands and stumbling upon bookshops filled with gondolas and cats—these hidden gems gave my trip so much more depth than I expected.
If you’re planning a visit and want to experience Venice beyond the postcard, I hope this list helps you step off the beaten path and into the soul of the city. Whether it’s your first time here or your fifth, there’s always something magical to uncover—you just have to know where to look.
My Practical Tips for Exploring Venice
️ Best Time to Visit:
Late April to June and September to early October are ideal—expect fewer crowds, pleasant temperatures, and dreamy light for photos. Avoid peak summer if you can (it gets very hot and busy!).
Getting Around:
I personally think Venice is best explored on foot and by vaporetto (water buses). For scenic canal rides, the No. 1 line along the Grand Canal is great value. Want something private? Book a traghetto or a boat taxi—but expect higher prices.
Cash or Card?
Cards are widely accepted, but some hidden gems like small cafés or bacari prefer cash—especially in less touristy areas. Carry a bit of both, just in case.
Etiquette Tips:
Dress modestly when visiting churches (shoulders and knees covered). Keep noise down in residential alleyways, and try not to block narrow streets for photos—locals appreciate it!
️ Where to Stay:
If you want easy access to hidden gems, base yourself in Cannaregio, Dorsoduro, or Castello—they’re quieter, atmospheric, and still close to the action.
Connectivity:
Venice’s Wi-Fi can be patchy—especially in older buildings. Consider downloading offline maps or using an eSIM for travel.
Before You Go: Venice Hidden Gem Checklist
✔ Burano’s colourful streets + lace shops
✔ Dinner at the Secret Supper Club
✔ Explore Sant’Andrea Fortress
✔ Climb the book staircase at Libreria Acqua Alta
✔ Taste ombra + cicchetti on a wine tour
✔ Listen to Vivaldi in a candlelit church
✔ Catch golden hour at a waterside bar
✔ Pause in peaceful Corte del Volto Santo
✔ Tour the curious Dutch-style Ca’Zappa
