food tour in venice italy

11 BEST Venice Food Tours (selected by an Italian)

By: Author Stefania Guglielmi

Posted on Last updated: April 9, 2024

Categories Europe , Italy

Are you a foodie visiting Venice, Italy? If you ask me, the best way to discover the city’s culinary scene is on a dedicated excursion. That’s why I bring you the ultimate list of Venice food tours!

Venice – or the city of canals – is mainly visited for its enchanting views, impressive architecture, and irresistible gondola rides.

As an Italian, I might be a liiittle biased, but Venice is truly one of the most unique destinations in the world.

Few know, however, that Venice also buzzes with a very vibrant food scene that captivates the taste buds . Besides boasting local eateries, high-end restaurants, bars, and cafés with the best Italian food, Venice has its own specialties.

I’m talking meals like fegato alla Veneziana , risi e bisi , a nd baccalà mantecato . Yum!

Eating out in Venice is a real treat, but you can take the gastronomic experience to the next level with a food tour .

And yes, you should absolutely check out the most famous sights, go on a gondola ride, and maybe on some other Venice tour . But then, don’t forget about the food!

I’ve selected the best Venice food tours available , all of which offer a plethora of flavors as you taste your way through the city.

Why trust my selection of food tours in Venice? I’m Italian, from Bologna, with years of experience writing about my country’s culinary treasures. I’ve chosen the Venice food tours that truly showcase the flavors of this unique city.

You can be sure that only the best make the cut, ensuring you explore Venice’s culinary scene with authenticity and quality at its heart.

From delectable cicchetti to heavenly gelato and hearty dishes (plus wine tastings – we’re in Italy after all!), you’ll indulge in the local cuisine while strolling along the mesmerizing canals. Check out the list of tours and choose your favorite!

I generally use Viator , Get Your Guide , and Walks to book tours around the world. I especially recommend them for their great cancellation policy. It allows you to cancel most activities up to 24 hours in advance and get a full refund. 

In a rush? These are the ultimate tours

 OUR PICK: The BEST Food Tour in Venice

Get a taste of the enchanting city of canals with this Experience Venice Like A Local: Small Group Cicchetti & Wine Tour . It enables you to experience the gastronomic scene like a native.

Discover hidden backstreet bars called enotecas , where Venetians gather to drink and socialize. You’ll also indulge in a combination of five regional wines and tantalizing cicchetti appetizers. 

You’ll also take in the vibrant atmosphere of Campo de la Maddalena, with its iconic chimneys and the historic Round Church.

Accompanied by a local guide, you’ll learn about the 1,000-year history of the city. The bonus? Traverse the famous Canal Grande on a traditional traghetto . This will give you a unique perspective of Venice’s bustling “highway” of life. 

Why this tour? It’s a highly-rated tour, with close to 1,500 positive reviews. It’s led by a dedicated guide and includes delicious and substantial tastings of the city’s most traditional dishes. Food and generous glasses of wine and Spritz will be provided, and on top of all, you’ll enjoy a gondola ride!

Read what the reviews say

“ This was a great tour! We got a feel of what was in the area. The choices of food were well planned and very tasty. Our tour guide was very informative, describing the history of each location as well as explaining the background of the food.” Joanna_T – Read more reviews

This wine and cicchetti tour in Venice includes : A walking tour, all food and drink tastings, and a local guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Other Great Venice Food Tour to Consider

▶️ This Tastes & Traditions of Venice: Food Tour with Rialto Market Visit is a phenomenal experience.

Soak up in the lively Rialto Fish Market accompanied by a friendly guide. Savor the Venetian cicchetti at a bustling bacaro , and sample the tramezzini sandwiches with a sip of Italian espresso.

Learn about the city’s unconventional food culture as you feast on fried fish with prosecco, a panino with spritz, and risotto with a glass of wine. You’ll also get to glide across the Grand Canal in a gondola, and cap off the day with a yummy gelato! 

This tour includes : 7 food stops, a guide, a gondola ride, and all food and beverages. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ This Eat Like a Local: 3-Hour Venice Small-Group Food Tasting Walking Tour dives right into authentic Venetian cuisine. The culinary adventure involves eight delectable stops, from the bustling Mercato di Rialto to hidden backstreets.

You’ll savor the finest Venetian pastries, delicious coffee, and the famous cicchetti with a foodie guide. Plus, discover Casanova’s favorite haunt in town, where he used to take his dates!

Visit Venice’s oldest bar, and learn about the city’s gastronomic scene before the grand finale: Authentic gelato! 

This tour includes : A local guide, and all the food and drink tastings. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ Join this Venice Street Food Tour with a Local Guide and Tastings to dive into the culinary wonders of the city. You’ll explore the lively Rialto Market, which buzzes with colors and activity as the locals come to buy fresh vegs, fruit, and fish.

Pass by charming squares and impressive churches on your way to Campo San Polo, with a stop at Basilica dei Frari. Along the way, indulge in Venetian delicacies such as cicchetti , buranelli biscuits, and tramezzini . 

Take in the sights of the Grand Canal as you explore the districts, and savor a visual feast to complement your gastronomic journey. 

This tour includes : All food tastings, and a local guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Aperitivo & More: Venice Food Tours by Night

▶️ The Venice at Sunset: Cicchetti, Food & Wine Tour offers the perfect way to end your day. Venture beyond the tourist traps to find hidden gems in the San Polo neighborhood during the golden hour. 

Admire the exterior of the Scuola Grande di San Rocco and the Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari.

All the way, you’ll be sampling your way through Venice! Among the tastings you’ll enjoy are the classic cicchetti , pasta, and gelato paired with a Spritz, wine, and Prosecco.

This tour includes : All food and drink tastings, and a local guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ Ready for a tantalizing adventure? Join this Venice Cicchetti & Spritz Food Tour in Cannaregio with Dinner ! Sip on Prosecco and savor Venetian small bites as you uncover hidden wine bars, the popular Rialto Market, and gelaterias.

Learn about the city’s food scene from your guide, and sit down for a scrumptious traditional lunch paired with wine. You’ll also learn to make a spritz and discover the differences between the Campari and Aperol spritzes.

Cap off the tour with a gondola ride across the Grand Canal, and indulge in gelato.

This Jewish Ghetto food tour in Venice includes : Spritz class, food tastings, a guide, dinner, and wine. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ Join this Venice: Guided Aperitivo Food Tour to delve into one of Italy’s most beloved traditions. You’ll visit five local restaurants to sample delicious bites such as crostini, risotto, and codfish. Pair your meal with a refreshing Venetian Spritz! 

Explore the city’s historic streets as your guide shares fascinating tidbits about Venice’s rich history. Finally, end the trip on a high note with heavenly espresso and artisanal chocolates. Yum!

Private Food Tours in Venice

▶️ Experience the buzz of the nightlife scene on this Venice: Private Evening Tour w/ Drinks & Bites in Cannaregio . It takes you around the lively district for 2.5 delightful hours.

Indulge in three drinks and tasty bites at the trendiest spots as your guide showcases the district’s highlights. 

Included in your tasting menu are glasses of wine, beer, cocktails, or non-alcoholic beverages. This tour also has vegetarian options available, so be sure to request them if you want them!

This tour includes : Food and drink tastings, and a local guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ Savor 10 hand-picked food and drink tastings on this Private The 10 Tastings Food Tour of Venice: Spritz Included .

Carefully selected by passionate hosts, you’ll delight in authentic flavors and iconic delicacies. These include iconic gelato, and a refreshing spritz. 

But wait, there’s more! Explore Venice’s highlights, and gain insider knowledge about the city’s hidden gems. 

This tour includes : A local guide, all tastings, and a personalized experience. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Wine Tours & Tasting in Venice

▶️ On this sparkling Semi-Private Prosecco Wine Tour from Venice , immerse yourself in the charming Veneto countryside. 

You’ll visit the towns of Valdobbiadene and Conegliano, and tour a winery in each of them. Discover the secrets of prosecco production before sampling the product with an expert.  

Then, savor a delightful lunch featuring regional delicacies. The tour accommodates up to 8 people for a personalized experience. 

This tour includes : Transportation, a local guide, 2 wine tastings, winery visits, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ The Eat, Drink, Repeat: Wine Tasting Tour in Venice takes you bar-crawling to the best local spots so you can relish the city’s delicacies…time and time again.

Sip six different wines, and experience Venice’s tantalizing flavors with delectable food pairings. 

All dishes are crafted using fresh, regional ingredients and perfectly complement each wine on the tour. 

Delight in a symphony of flavors, from crisp whites to velvety reds as you discover the secrets of choosing the right wine for any occasion!

This tour includes : A local guide, wine tasting, and all food pairings. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Stefania Guglielmi is the founder of Every Steph. Originally from Bologna, Italy, she's been traveling full-time since 2016 and has visited over 50 countries across 6 continents. She believes sustainable travel and luxury travel can go hand in hand and has been advocating for responsible tourism since 2014. Stefania's advice and travel experiences have been featured in important publications such as Business Insider, Refinery29, and Yahoo Money.

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The 5 Best Venice Food Tours [2024 Reviews]

Venice is one of my favorite places in the world, with architecture and cultural riches that make it feel like I’m in some sort of fairytale from hundreds of years back.

However, part of the incredible allure of the city is its incomparable gastronomy! If you ask me, the best way to really wrap your head around the local cuisine is to partake in a food tour.

After taking so many, I thought I’d help out by carefully curating a list of the 5 top Venice food tours for 2024! Let’s jump right in!

Be sure to see our reviews of Gondola Rides , Dolomites Day Trips From Venice and St. Mark’s Basilica Tours .

Best Food Tours in Venice

Quick answer: the 5 best rated venice food tours for 2024.

• Venice Food Tour – Do Eat Better Experience
• PRIVATE The 10 Tastings Food Tour of Venice: Spritz Included
• Eat Like a Local: 3-hour Venice Small-Group Food Tasting Walking Tour
• Venice Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
• Rialto Market Food and Wine Lunchtime Tour of Venice

Venice Food Tour Reviews

1. venice food tour – do eat better experience.

• Duration: 3.5 hours
• Departure: Campo S.S. Giovanni e Paolo, 6363, 30122 Venezia VE
• Departure Time: 11:30 AM or 5:30 PM
• Includes:  Dinner, Alcoholic Beverages, Bottled water

The first time I was in Venice, I just followed what my friends recommended and frankly, would’ve liked more of a local’s perspective.

Luckily for me, I went ahead and bought tickets for the Venice Food Tour – Do Eat Better Experience , which gave me all that, and more! Lasting around 3 hours, it’s easy to fit into even the busiest of schedules and is a great alternative to going out to dinner at a nice restaurant.

I loved being able to learn about Venician culture – specifically traditions involving food and drink – while getting to actually try local favorites!

We met up with our guide and the rest of our group in central Venice, which was super close to all of our hotels, anyway. Not to mention, the group was quite small and intimate, and they only allowed a max of 10 participants to keep it this way.

After passing by the stunning Ponte del Cavallo, first stop for the evening was to taste and learn all about the famous aperitif, Spritz (wine, sparkling water, and Aperol).

Our guide made sure we had a ton of fun, placing a humorous yet passionate focus on everything we covered. After trying the refreshing cocktail, we then continued on to our next stop, strolling around and learning about the city from our expert guide!

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Trying the famous Crostini was quite the treat, and I even went out on a limb and tried the surprisingly tasty sardine option.

The inviting, fun personality of our guide made it the perfect environment for trying new things without feeling judged, and that’s something you can’t put a price on.

After that, we went on to try more well-known Venetian dishes like risotto, along with a deep-fried mozzarella sandwich, codfish with cornmeal, aubergines with tomato sauce, and so much more.

I don’t think I’d ever had to much mozzarella in my life, but everything was absolutely delicious – make sure you come hungry, though! Of course, there’s no better way to finish up exquisite dishes like that than with either a shot or some of the best ice cream in Venice!

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, other experiences you may enjoy:, 2. private the 10 tastings food tour of venice: spritz included.

• Duration:  3 hours
• Departure: Campo Manin, 30124 Venezia VE
• Departure Time: Between 11:00 AM & 5:00 PM
• Includes:  Private tour and local foodie guide, 10 food & drink tastings, sustainable experience

There are many ways to explore Venice, but if you want my advice, I’d say you really need to see it from the eyes of a local. With the PRIVATE The 10 Tastings Food Tour of Venice: Spritz Included  was an incredible experience that took me to places I’d probably never see otherwise!

Sure, we saw some more popular sites, but the vast majority of eateries were these hidden gems that I’m already looking forward to coming back to!

I absolutely loved the previous tour with its small group setting, but in that regard, this tour actually takes things a step further.

It was literally only me and my tour guide, so it really felt like I had a local buddy in Venice who was there to show me the absolute tastiest places around! We met up in central Venice by the Manin statue, which is pretty easy to find for the vast majority of travelers.

Campo Manin is a really charming place that I believe exudes that “quintessential Venetian” vibe complete with traditional architecture and a bustling atmosphere that always puts me in a good mood.

We hung out a bit here, just taking in the environment and providing me with some insight into what daily life is like for so many Venetians here!

We then moved on to the hidden gem that is Scala Contarini del Bovolo, with some of the best views in the city, and amazing food and drinks.

Next up was Rialto Market, where locals grab groceries and restaurateurs get their ingredients, and is full of interesting stalls with fresh food and other interesting offerings.

I had a great time exploring the Basilica di Santa Maria GLoriosa dei Frari, with plenty of opportunity to learn about traditional dishes and drinks, art, and general history from our guide.

We got to see many more sites, and I truly felt like I had a fantastic grasp of Venetian history, current situations in the city, cuisine, and much more because of it!

3. Eat Like a Local: 3-hour Venice Small-Group Food Tasting Walking Tour

• Duration:  2.5 to 3.5 hours
• Departure: Campo S. Giacomo di Rialto, 30125 Venezia VE
• Departure Time: 10:45 AM
• Includes:  Local guide, Wine tasting, Local taxes, Food tasting

I feel like you never really know a culture’s food until you know the history behind it. This next tour allowed me to really explore Venice’s hidden culinary gems and enjoy authentic flavors that exhibit the true soul of Venetian culture.

The Eat Like a Local: 3-Hour Venice Small-Group Food Tasting Walking Tour  provides all this and more, creating a tour that brings the senses to life.

It’s no secret that Venice can be super crowded, even when it isn’t during peak tourist seasons – which can be a bit of a downer if you don’t know how to plan accordingly.

However, this tour kind of takes you away from the crowds and into another world where you can fully immerse yourself in the heritage of Venice, the way a local would see it.

I will say, however, that I recommend putting on some good walking shoes to navigate the narrow streets and uneven terrain.

With our guide (and our small tour), we kind of went off the beaten path to explore neighborhoods known by Venetians but aren’t often seen by tourists, starting off with some yummy pastries and coffee.

Through the little alleyways and picturesque squares, we arrived at bustling markets filled with artisanal cheeses, fresh produce, and plenty of regional specialties. This comprehensive introduction includes dishes that are all in-season so everything is fresh and at its best.

We made around 8 stops in total, where we visited some elegant wine bars to taste wines and learn how to expertly pair them with traditional side dishes.

We also tried plenty of fish and cured meats, as our guide led us around while regaling us with personal anecdotes and knowledge about the area, food, and wine.

This was an amazing way to spend a couple of hours while learning about the local specialties while meeting others from around the world!

4. Venice Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

• Departure: Cannaregio, Campiello de l’Anconeta, 1939-1952, 30121 Venezia VE
• Departure Time: Between 9:30 AM & 6:30 PM
• Includes:  Venetian Cookies, Cicchetti (Local Tapas: one must is with Baccalà Mantecato), Venetian Meatball, Polenta tasting in a Traditional Bacaro, Venetian Main Pasta dish, Tiramisù, Our Secret Dish

Venice is a gorgeous city with labyrinthine streets, ancient palazzos, and of course, many culinary gems waiting to be uncovered. I wanted to discover it all, so I knew I needed a guide who could help us navigate the literal maze of flavors, and I knew this next tour would be perfect for it.

The Venice Walking Food Tour with Secret Food Tours  offers intimate knowledge of the local food scene, taking you on a journey from hundreds of years ago up to the present day.

Our guide was one of the best that I’ve had, which really is saying a lot considering I’ve had so many fantastic ones. I’d already tried plenty of Venetian dishes at this point, and our guide asked us about our experience so she could show us something new.

The fact that she didn’t just go through the motions and check off boxes meant a lot, and the quality of the tour attests to that.

Our first stop was trying the Cicchetti along with the Spritz that was invented here, which I’d already tried but I enjoyed so much, I didn’t mind having it again.

Given the location, there were plenty of seafood options to select from, though those who don’t like fish also have many alternatives to try.

I had a great time trying the oldest cafe in Venice, along with some welcome cookies (I’m a huge cookie fiend and these were amazing).

I also liked how our guide mixed indoor locations with open-air spots like a bright and bustling market where we got to try local meatballs and Tramezzini, along with Veneto’s Polenta, and much more!

Everyone also gets to try their tasty “Secret Dish”, which I obviously can’t reveal here, but can say that it’s definitely worth trying! If you’re on the hunt for a tour that the entire family can have fun with, look no further than this one!

5. Rialto Market Food and Wine Lunchtime Tour of Venice

• Duration:  4 hours
• Includes:  Lunch, local guide

Venice is much more than its canals and gondolas – it’s about centuries-old traditions, including those surrounding the local culinary scene. This next tour is a sensory experience that focuses on the history of Venice, along with the Rialto Market.

The Rialto Market Food and Wine Lunchtime Tour of Venice  is bursting at the seams with vibrant colors, delicious aromas wafting through the air, and the freshest produce you’ve ever seen.

Our small group setting was perfect for really learning about the city, while being able to weave in and out of the alleyways and market without issue.

Our tour guide was able to answer every question we had, teaching us in a way that wasn’t intimidating for new visitors. She even introduced us to various vendors and artisans – many of which use traditions that have been in practice for hundreds of years in Venice.

I’d say this is one of the best tours to take if it’s your first time in Venice and want to get a lay of the land and valuable insight into the local culture.

Our guide made sure we had a ton of fun, placing a humorous yet passionate focus on everything we covered.

Our first stop was at the famous Mercati di Rialto to see where locals and chefs get their produce and seafood, crossing Ponte di Rialto to see Campo San Bartolomeo and Marco Polo’s house!

I thought this tour was mostly focused on food, but we also tried plenty of fine regional wines and prosecco at Venice’s Bacari bars, which are kind of like Italy’s version of tapas. It’s an easy way to try a lot of the traditional food without becoming too full.

This one was right between breakfast and lunch, making it perfect if you have a morning free – just make sure to skip breakfast as there’s a lot of eating involved!

Foods Tasted

Tour guides.

The Venice Food Tour – Do Eat Better Experience is our Editors Choice for the best Venice food tour.

Krysha Thayer

Related articles, the 5 best stonehenge tours from london [2024 reviews], the 5 best wine tours from florence [2024 reviews], the 7 best vatican tours ⛪ [2024 reviews], the 5 best seine river dinner cruises [2024 reviews].

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OUR TOURS IN & AROUND VENICE

Visit the most interesting sites of Venice with a local expert and eat drink and taste traditional specialties in the most pictoreque corners of the city.

VENICE CICCHETTI STREET FOOD TOUR

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JEWISH GHETTO & CANNAREGIO FOOD TOUR

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Tastes & Traditions of Venice: Food Tour with Rialto Market Visit

• Embark on a gastronomic adventure spanning two sides of the Grand Canal. You’ll learn how to find great food in the Floating City as you taste your way around several locally owned eateries, including a stop at the famous Rialto Market.
• The best way to understand the history of Venice is through its food. With your guide, you’ll learn about Venice's unique maritime-influenced culture and its effects on life (and food!) in the city throughout the centuries.
• Taste eight delicious local specialties and four drinks—enough food for a full breakfast and lunch—while supporting the small businesses that make Venice what it is.

Preview the experience

Tour description, learn about the cuisine and culture of venice on a unique and delicious food tour..

Venice has a food culture quite unlike anywhere else in Italy—or the world, for that matter. There is no farmable land here, which means that staples like meat, dairy, and grains weren't readily available for many centuries. However, as a major trading city, Venice had access to spices from around the world—not to mention an endless supply of fish.

On this small group Venice food tour, you’ll get to the heart of the city through its stomach, dispelling those vicious rumors that there’s no good food in Venice. Of course there is—you just need to know where to look!

Visit the Rialto Market and the best cicchetti bars.

Meet your guide and small group near the Rialto Bridge and head straight to the first stop of your Venice food tour. This tiny bar is a favorite among locals for a quick breakfast or lunch. Take your pick from their famous tramezzini—delicious sandwiches made with top-quality Italian ingredients—which you’ll enjoy with a typical espresso.

After that, it’s time for a crash course in the cornerstone of Venetian cuisine: cicchetti, or simple yet delicious light bites. At our next stop, you’ll try two of our favorites and a classic local drink.

Next, you'll continue your culinary adventure at the place that's been at the heart of local food culture for centuries: the Rialto Fish Market. This is where the seafood restaurants in Venice buy their fish daily, deciding their menus based on the day’s fresh catch. It’s also where you’ll first come to grips with the strange quirks of island living.

You won't have to walk far to our next stop just across from the market. At this bright and warm storefront, the friendly staff serve up street food made with seafood fresh from the market itself. (Case in point: They only open when the fish market is open, in order to guarantee their access to fresh ingredients!) We'll enjoy one of their specialties with a glass of prosecco produced right here in the Veneto region.

From there, we’ll head back to the market to explore its other side, which is dedicated to fresh produce. You’ll learn how to navigate the stalls like a Venice local and even stop at one for a tasting of fresh seasonal fruit.

Our next stop is a bacaro (Venetian wine bar) that serves as a popular gathering spot for locals thanks to its unbeatable food. You’ll try a panino of your choice and wash it down with one of their famous spritzes.

Cross the Grand Canal to explore historic Cannaregio.

You won’t just eat as the locals do—you’ll travel like them, too! Hop aboard a local gondola for a short trip across the Grand Canal with your guide, disembarking by Ca' d’Oro (the “Gold Palace”) in the historic neighborhood of Cannaregio. While tourists clog the streets between Rialto and St. Mark’s Basilica, Cannaregio is where Venetians congregate. Historically termed the Jewish Ghetto, it’s the most storied part of the city, as you’ll learn from your guide.

After a stroll from the canal into the back streets, you'll have worked up an appetite for our last few tastes of the morning. We'll step into a cozy contemporary wine bar for another glass of wine and the city’s best risotto, served to you by the chef himself.

Finally, we hope you’ve saved room for gelato! You’ll try the best in the city at an innovative gelateria tucked down a hidden alleyway.

Great food doesn't end with your Venice food tour.

Before you part ways with your expert guide, they’ll give you recommendations for restaurants and bars to suit your palate so you can continue eating well in Venice during the rest of your stay. They’ll give you tips on how to avoid the more touristy restaurants and where to seek out the best food at the best prices—and what to try when you get there.

Traveling in a small group of only 12 fellow foodies, you’ll find it easy to engage with your local guide and ask any questions that come to mind. With their help, you’ll learn about Venice through its incredible food—and manage to avoid pricey, mediocre meals!

Sites visited

Verified guest reviews, apr 03, 2024.

Barbara was an awesome guide for our food tour in Venice! We took our 4 & 7 year olds and they tried ALL o the food!

Nov 13, 2023

Wonderful food tour of Venice. The guide was from a family that had lived in Venice for many generations so her knowledge was wonderful. It is a great way to start your time in Venice as it gives you a good food introduction in to the city and what to try while you are there. Love that Devour tours highlights true authentic local establishments.

Oct 24, 2023

A fantastic tour! Tried a range of foods and drinks during the short walking tour. Loved the walk through the fish, fruit and veg markets right on the canal. Excellent value for money with a fantastic guide.

Oct 22, 2023

The portions could have been larger. More history of Venice, the culture, city and architecture would have been ideal, there was not really any information unless we asked questions

Oct 16, 2023

Highly recommend this tour. I book food tours because, in addition to eating, you usually get a fairly good tour of city highlights. This tour hit all the marks. Our guide was personable/knowledgable. We went to 6 establishments all with excellent products. Generous portions. The only constructive criticism: As most folks, I booked this many months in advance. 2 days prior to the tour, I sent an email confirming the meeting place had not changed. Did not get a reply, but did a confirmation of the tour the next day. However, this was the 2nd Devour tour of my trip and the confirmation was for the previous one, necessitating a phone call which was quickly handled, seeing place confirmed and a map was included.

Know before you book

Similar tours, venice boat tour with grand canal & tower climb, premium lagoon excursion: murano glass making, burano & wine tasting, venice at sunset: cicchetti, food & wine tour.

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THE 10 BEST Venice Food Tours

Food tours in venice.

• Walking Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Venice at Sunset: Cicchetti, Food & Wine Tour

2. Venice Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

3. Venice Private Food Walking Tour With Locals: 6 or 10 Tastings

4. Venice Cicchetti & Spritz Food Tour in Cannaregio with Dinner

5. Rialto Market Food and Wine Lunchtime Tour of Venice

6. Full day tour in Dolomites from Venice

7. Tasty Venice Dinner Food Tour around Jewish Ghetto & Cannaregio Quarter

8. Rialto Farmers Market Food Tour in Venice with Wine Tasting & Guided Sightseeing

9. Venice: Jewish Ghetto & Cannaregio Area Food Tour: Pasta Wine Gelato and More!

10. Drink eat and walk in Venice

11. Tasty Street Food Tour of Venice City Center with Cicchetti & Local Specialties

12. Venetian Cicchetti Street Food & Sightseeing Walking Tour with local guide

13. Wine and Food tour in the Prosecco Hills from Venice

14. Tasty Rialto Farmers Market Food Tour in Venice with Wine Tasting & Sightseeing

15. Tastes & Traditions of Venice: Food Tour with Rialto Market Visit

16. Bike tour with honey and artichockes on Sant’Erasmo island

17. Old Taverns and Rialto Market Food Adventure

18. Venice Market and Cicchetti Semi-Private 6 People Food Experience

19. Rialto food tour with view

20. Experience Venice with a Local Sommelier: Cicchetti & Wine Tour

21. Rialto food tour and gelato tasting with local

22. Venice Jewish Ghetto and Cannaregio Food Tour

23. Chocolate Tasting in Venice

24. Private Secret Venice Tour; Rialto Market, San Polo & Food and Wine tasting

25. Venice Evening Walking Tour: Food and Ghost Stories

26. Small Group Venice Street Food Tour with Expert Local Guide

27. Walking Food Tour of Venice with Tastings

28. Venice Street Food and Sightseeing Small Group Tour with a Native Guide

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30. Venice Rialto Market Food Delicacies and Sightseeing Tour with a Native Guide

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Venice Evening Food Tour in Cannaregio with Authentic Sit-Down Dinner

Experience top notch venetian cuisine and wine with a local foodie and dine at a premier restaurant.

Are you ready to eat like a real Venetian? This evening food tour takes you to heart of the Cannaregio district for an authentic slice of life in Venice, tasting some of the best food in Italy! Your local guide is a bona fide foodie, and you’ll visit some of the city’s best local spots to enjoy traditional cicchetti, Venetian pasta, delicious gelato, local wines, and a Campari spritz to wash it all down. You'll also enjoy a sit down meal at one of the city's best pasta restaurants. Cin-cin!

• Food, food, and more food
• Guided Tour
• Meet your Local foodie guide
• Cicchetti tasters
• Venetian Campari spritz
• Explore Cannaregio
• Discover the famous Ponte Chiodo
• Quench your thirst with some ombra
• Sit-Down Dinner included
• Real Italian gelato

You’ll meet near Venice’s famous the Teatro Italia where your food-obsessed, English-speaking guide will be waiting. Along with a group of up to 10 people, you’ll explore the side streets of the Cannaregio district, visiting one of our favorite bacari wine bars, sampling assorted cicchetti dishes, and tasting some of finest regional food and wine in Italy. You’ll also enjoy a sit-down meal with your group at one of the city’s best pasta restaurants. This foodie-led exploration of Venetian culture and history shows you a side of the city most tourists won’t see (or taste!).

Venice Food Tour Description

Your 2.5-hour tour includes:

Small plates called cicchetti

Prosecco, wine, and cocktails

Sit-down pasta dinner and gelato

Short walking tour of Cannaregio

English-speaking, local guide

Maximum of 10 people per group

Cannaregio and the Jewish Quarter

Your evening in Venice is set in the beautiful neighborhood of Cannaregio. Originally a working-class neighborhood, it has become the center of local Venetian cuisine and culture. Along with your local guide, you’ll explore the most populous of Venice's six sestieri or districts.

Within Cannaregio, you’ll also visit the Jewish neighborhood from which the word "ghetto" originates. As you explore the small canals and streets, you’ll see a more authentic, less touristy side of Venice that will make you fall in love with the city all over again.

Cicchetti and Bacari 

There are two words that are vital to know when visiting Venice— cicchetti and bacari . The word cicchetti comes from Venetian dialect, meaning "a small savory snack.” They’re served at various bacari (wine bars) and come in many delicious varieties. Traditional bacari date back to at least the 1300s and have become an integral part of life in Venice.

Your local Venetian guide will explain the history of bacari and why people visited them during the day (and even in the morning!). When Italians drink wine, they always have something to eat with it to make sure that they don't get too tipsy. So over time, the bacari started offering cicchetti and a new tradition was born: drinking wine with cicchetti.

Whether you have a sweet tooth or prefer something bitter, there’s a spritz for everyone. For example the Campari spritz has a higher alcohol content than an Aperol Spritz, and it also tastes more bitter than sweet.

The Select Spritz Apertivo-- the original signature Venetian Spritz-- has been a staple in the Venetian lifestyle since the 1920s and is a local favorite.

If you’ve ever seen pictures of people in Italy drinking a bright orange cocktail in a stemmed glass, that’s an Aperol spritz. Both drinks are made with prosecco. You’ll learn how to make the classic Italian aperitivo drink from an expert, local bartender.

Traditional Sit-Down Dinner

An ombra in Venice is a small glass of wine, but ombra means “shade” in Italian. Legend has it that wine was once sold near the bell tower of St. Mark's Square, where people could relax in the shade. So, the locals would say, "Let's go drink in the shade by the bell tower.” Today, it has been shortened to just one word: ombra. At the third stop, you’ll taste some of the local ombra as you sit down for a delicious dinner that includes some of the best pasta in Venice.

Gelato in Venice

No Italian foodie experience is complete without some refreshing gelato. On this Venice food tour, you’ll learn how to spot the difference between authentic and artificial gelato by visiting one of Venice's best gelateria or gelato shops. Your guide can tell you which flavors are in season, and what makes gelato different from the ice cream you have at home.

You may feel like staying out and exploring Venice after the tour ends, or you might need a rest after all the eating and drinking! If you're ready to head home, your guide will happily show you where to catch the nearest vaporetto (water taxi) so you can cruise back to your accommodation for the night.

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What you get with this tour

See what people are saying

157 total reviews

Fun, delicious and educational

We enjoyed the authentic Italian foods at three off-the-beaten path bars/restaurants. Our guide was enthusiastic and knowledgeable about the history, culture and food traditions. Wonderful tour.

I had a lot of Chicchetti for the first time and was glad I had them. I became very adventurous with food and had so much fun.

Very tasty tour

Thank you to our fine guide for a delicious & enlightening tour.

show more reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What to bring?

Comfortable shoes and a hearty appetite.

I have doubts about my mobility, is this the right tour for me?

Venice is a car-free city, so you'll be walking between stops and may come across some uneven streets and stairways. If you have any doubts about your mobility, we suggest taking a private Venice tour instead.

Do the tasting stops on this tour ever change?

Occasionally, the stops and tastings on this tour are subject to change due to seasonal/holiday venue closures. As the places we visit on this food tour are local institutions and family-run businesses, they can close at any time with very little notice. If this happens, your guide will take you to another excellent nearby eatery.

Can I bring my kids and do I have to pay for them?

Kids are welcome on our food tours, but we understand that sometimes young children won’t be interested in what’s offered. You don’t have to pay for children who are under 6 years old and won’t be eating the food. You're welcome to bring some food for them to enjoy. Otherwise, if children under 6 will be eating food at any of the stops, please choose the “Child” option when booking.

What if I have food allergies, intolerances or other requirements?

Please contact us in advance and we’ll do our best to accommodate your needs.

Can I still come if I don't drink alcohol?

Yes, you're welcome to come! Just reach out to us directly so we can work with our partners to accommodate your needs.

Free 24-hr cancellation on group tours! Learn more

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Home / Destinations / Italy / Venice

Tours in Venice

Let bubbles dance on your tongue as you tip back a glass of locally produced prosecco or an aperitif of spritz. Munch on cicchetti, Italy’s version of tapas, at a local bacaro (bar) for a variety of bread-based snacks and fried foods. No trip to The Floating City would be complete without a bite of fresh-caught seafood from the Rialto Fish Market paired with the perfect pasta and wine.

Food Tours in Venice

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Venice Food Tours

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The pure visual splendor of Venice, Italy’s fairytale floating city, can only be matched by one thing: its food. Surrounded by fertile islands and a rich lagoon, Venice’s local produce and abundant seafood elevate the dishes at Venetian restaurants to another level of freshness and flavor. Whether you snack on street food while watching the gondolas glide by, scope out the best traditional Venetian restaurants for a dining experience dreams are made of, or do like the locals do and fill up on cichetti – tapas-like snacks – and Veneto wines by the glass at a centuries-old bar, the Venetian food experience is always a discovery of mind-blowing flavors and textures.

Meet some of our food-loving local hosts in Venice

Like the people who travel with us, they have different backgrounds and interests – but they’re all so passionate about the place they call home, they choose to spend their free time sharing it with the like-minded travelers matched to them.

Venice’s history can be mapped through its food. Even at the city’s best restaurants, where tradition reigns supreme, you can expect a few surprising spices and unfamiliar flavors. The fusion food served at many Venetian restaurants today has its roots in the 13th century, when Venetian recipes required exotic ingredients like galangal and saffron. On food tours in Venice, don’t be surprised if local specialties at Venetian restaurants taste vaguely Turkish or Greek – ingredients from Venice’s preferred Spice Route trading partners have markedly influenced the city’s culinary identity.

Choosing the right place to eat in one of the world’s most popular cities can be tough. Many Venetian restaurants cater almost solely to travelers – stick strictly to tourist menus, and you’re bound to be disappointed. With a local insider to guide your food tours in Venice, you’ll avoid the tourist traps and instead seek out the spots where serious chefs use only hyper-local ingredients. Forget Venetian restaurants – a local will likely lead you to a hole-in-the-wall bar with no menu at all, where the dishes don’t change seasonally, but hourly, depending on the produce that’s freshest.

If you’re looking for the most authentic experience of Venetian restaurants, you’ll find it at a bacaro. Like Spain’s tapas bars, the bacaro serves varied small plates paired with Veneto wines. These flavor-packed servings, cichetti, range from basic bar snacks to Michelin-worthy morsels like pancetta-wrapped shrimp and wild boar salami – and these menus can change hour by hour. Scoping out bacari in favor of traditional Venetian restaurants is the perfect way to rub elbows with the locals, try something uniquely Venice, and taste some truly spectacular food – and lots of it!

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Find the best things to do, places to eat, must eat foods and lots of travel tips in Venice and around the world recommended by our local hosts

Latest reviews from our guests

Maria was prompt on meeting us at four hotel. She listened to all our requests. She gave us tips for exploring the city after the tour was finished. We never felt rushed. We loved having our own personal tour guide.

November 2023

Maria was a terrific guide.

October 2023

She did a nice tour with recommendations and helped us with bookings and had a beautiful surprise at the end

September 2023

Maria is a wonderful guide. You will not be disappointed. She is very knowledgeable and extremely helpful. We enjoyed our stay in Venice because of her.

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Venice Food Tour - Secret Food Tours

On our Secret Food Tour: Venice, we'll take you on a tasting adventure, introducing you to the land of the spritz and cicchetti. You' ll be amused by tasting local food and traditional wines, discovering the secret stories and recipes hidden in every plate you’ll try. Exploring the characteristic canals that surround the city, you’ll have the opportunity to smell the aromas, flavors by sharing the local history and traditions with the lagoonal merchants and food producers of the area. Every bite you give will connect you to the history and traditions of this city.

On our secret food tours: Venice, you’ll experience the most particular dishes and drinks that characterized this marvelous and unique city surrounded by canals. You’ll walk and eat through the magnificent historical streets of Venice while we’ll let you discover local genuine products, learning the history and secrets hidden behind the local food and beverages.

Walk around the colorful floating city: founded over 1,500 years ago on 118 different islands that are linked by 150 canals and around 400 bridges and pavements, Venice is one of the most unique and famous places the world might offer. See the buildings of Venice and wonder how they could still be up after so long in the water. A little hint? They all have foundations which are supported by wooden piles, but do not be scared to randomly walk around.

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20+ Must-Try Foods And Drinks In Venice – And My Favorite Places To Eat Them

Last updated on April 17th, 2024

One of the top things you should be doing in Venice is eating and drinking. Perhaps in no other city in Italy is it socially acceptable to eat and drink throughout the entire day – from your morning coffee to pre-dinner cicchetti to your after dinner digestivo – and everything in between.

Most travelers come to Venice for its unique structure – it’s a gorgeous city built on water and connected by footbridges and canals. But what you should really be thinking about is the food and drink in Venice! 

If you are planning your trip to Venice, take some time to learn all about Venice’s most important foods and drinks to try on your trip, being sure to carve out enough time in your busy schedule to stop in at wine bars or bacari for small snacks and glasses of wine between touring.

In this guide, I will go over the must try foods and drinks in Venice including my personal recommendations on where to eat them and how to pronounce each food. 

Jump to Section

But First – What Is Venetian Cuisine?

Venetian cuisine has a long history rooted in its complex relationships with foreign nations as an important port city. Venice has always been a central hub for cultural exchange and business between Italy and the rest of the world, which is directly reflected in its unique culinary traditions and foods like sarde in saor. 

Not unlike other port cities, Venetians had access to foreign spices and flavors such as ginger, cloves and saffron, all of which were important elements in creating some of the most iconic dishes and foods of Venice that we know and love today. 

Venetian cuisine is also defined by its unmistakable location on the Adriatic Sea bringing a bountiful catch of fish, seafood and marine delicacies. Food in Venice is also defined and bound to the local season’s harvest such as asparagus in the spring, artichokes in the winter and an abundance of radicchio. 

Meal structure in Venice is not unlike a typical Italian meal starting with an appetizer and finishing with a dessert with a first and second course sandwiched in the middle. It seems like a lot but unless it’s a holiday or large celebrations, Venetians today tend to eat either a first or a second course but not both in one sitting.

Worth noting is also the ever present 24 hours a day drinking culture in Venice. Because Venice is so cold and damp (with only a couple of blazing hot weeks in the summer), the only way to warm yourself to the bone is with an ombra or small glass of wine. 

This led to the cicchetti culture, a small sip of wine with a small nibble, more similar to a grazing culture, which defies all aspects of typical Italian food traditions and meal structure.

This grazing culture gave rise to some of the most beloved and tasty street food in all of Venice, which can be enjoyed from sunup to sundown. 

So if you are traveling to Venice, keep in mind you should be doing a lot of drinking and a lot of snacking without any feelings of judgment or guilt. Anzi, rather, you will fit right in!

(Pronounced spreetz in Italian) 

The spritz, also called the Spritz Veneziano in Venice is a prosecco based cocktail made with Aperol , a popular digestive bitter, and a splash of soda water. In Venice, the traditional recipe calls for Select instead of Aperol. 

Try It: To learn more about what spritz are, spritz culture in Italy and how to make one at home read Italian Spritz – The Easy 1-2-3 Recipe For Aperol Spritz . Or try a non-alcoholic version, like the Aperol Spritz mocktail or Crodino spritz .

Where To Drink It: Al Mercà ( Rialto Market area)

(Pronounced behl-lee-nee in Italian)

A bellini is an Italian cocktail made with 2 parts prosecco and 1 part white peach purée or more commonly, regular peaches. 

The cocktail originated in Venice at Giuseppe Cipriani’s restaurant, Harry’s Bar in the 1930’s.

Where To Drink It: Restaurant Terrazza Danieli (one of the best places to eat on the water in Venice ) or Harry’s Bar

An ombra in Venice refers to a small glass of wine enjoyed with cicchetti . This can be any kind of wine.

Where To Drink It: Drink a ombra at any bacaro or cicchetti bar such as Cantina Do Spade or Osteria Al Portego

(Pronunced proh-sehk-koh in Italian)

Prosecco is essentially Italy’s version of Champagne and lucky for Venetians, prosecco country is just outside the city , making great prosecco accessible and affordable. 

Order prosecco as an aperitivo in Venice .

Where To Drink It: Osteria Bancogiro or Terrazza Danieli

( Pronounced cheek-keht-tee in Italian)

Sometimes seen written as cichetti or cicheti in the local Venetian dialect, cicchetti are small snacks or bites that are typically served in bacari in Venice along with a small glass of wine or a small spritz. 

Gluten-Free Travelers: It’s not hard to eat gluten-free cicchetti in Venice with my hand guide to Gluten-Free Cicchetti in Venice .

Common examples include crostini with fish salads, cod fish spread, a slice of smoked salmon and cheese , whipped cheeses with local ingredients like radicchio, slices of polenta topped similarly, seafood skewers, raw seafood bites and savory baby quiches. 

Where To Eat Them: Bacarando Corte dell’Orso

(Pronounced trah-mehz-zee-noh in Italian) 

A tramezzino is one of the most authentic grab-and-go lunches in Venice. It’s a crustless sandwich made from white bread stuffed with various creamy fillings such as tuna salad, egg salad, fish salad, ham and cheese, mozzarella and tomato or arugula and shrimp. 

The defining ingredient in all of these varieties? A TON of mayonnaise! 

Where To Eat It: Rosticceria Gilson, one of my top picks for eating with kids in Venice .

Polenta E Schie

(Pronounced poh-lehn-tah eh shee-eh in Italian)

Originally a dish created by fishermen to feed hungry mouths with very little, polenta e schie has come a long way and is now a very chic dish made from small seasonal shrimp fished in the Venetian lagoon and served on a creamy bed of polenta. 

Where To Eat It: Trattoria al Gatto Nero (only available seasonally)

(Pronounced kahr-pahch-choh in Italian.)

Paper-thin slices of raw fish or, more famously, beef , are plated with a drizzle of olive oil , a shaving of cheese with beef and a squeeze of lemon. 

Carpaccio is said to have been first invented in 1950 by the Venetian Giuseppe Cipriani, the owner of Harry’s Bar, one of Venice’s most famous restaurants.

Story goes that the dish was named after one of Cipriani’s favorite artists, Vittore Carpaccio, whose bold colors resembled the color of the bright red raw meat.

Where To Eat It: Al Covo (for fish carpaccio)

Scartosso De Pesse Fritto

(Pronounced scahr-tohs-soh deh pehs-seh freet-toh in Italian)

Scartosso de pesse fritto is a favorite street food in Venice made from a variety of local fried fish served in a large, paper cone and eaten standing on the side of a canal. 

Where To Eat It: Fried land. For a comprehensive guide on where to eat fried fish and Venice and other street food read Where to Try Street Food in Venice .

Moeche Fritte

(Pronounce moh-eh-keh freet-teh in Italian)

Moeche fritte are one of the most famous and beloved foods in Venice because they only are ‘in season’ for a couple weeks in the spring and fall.

These small soft shell crabs are battered and deep fried , served piping hot. They are not only one of the most interesting and unique foods in Venice but also the most expensive! 

Where To Eat It: Trattoria Al Gatto Nero 

Mozzarella In Carrozza

(Pronounced mohtz-zah-rehl-lah een cahr-rohtz-tzah

Mozzarella in carrozza, although originally from Campania , is now a popular snack or quick lunch made by deep frying a white bread mozzarella sandwich , oftentimes with a couple anchovy slices. 

Where To Eat It: Rosticceria Gilson

Baccalà Mantecato

(Pronounced bahk-kah-lah mahn-teh-cah-toh in Italian)

A creamy whipped puree of salt cod is served on small rounds of toasted bread or crispy pieces of polenta. This is one of the most famous foods in Venice to try either as a cicchetti or as an appetizer . The best baccalà mantecato I had was at Osteria Bancogiro on a square of polenta flavored with nero di seppia (cuttlefish ink).

Where To Eat It: Osteria Bancogiro 

Scampi in Busara

(Pronounce scahm-pee een boo-sah-rah in Italian)

Scampi in Busara is a first course made from spaghetti dressed in a tomato sauce and served with fresh scampi. 

Busara is the type of pot that was originally used to cook the spaghetti in on fishing boats. Nowadays, fishermen don’t really do these but there are many cooking lessons and food tours to take part in that may show how to use them.

Where To Eat It: Cà D’Oro alla Vedova

Risi E Bisi

(Pronounced ree-see eh bee-see in Italian)

Risi e bisi is a very soft and creamy risotto , similar to a soup made with fresh peas in the spring. Although you can find this year-round in Venice, DO NOT order it unless fresh peas are in season. Serving this out of season is the surest sign of a tourist trap. 

Tip: If you are a vegan , vegetarian or gluten-free , rice is usually a good place to start. Confirm with your waiter that it suits your diet first! 

Where To Eat It: SEPA (check weekly menu posted on their “risotto board” listing all the weekly risotto specials)

More Veg Please: Check out my list of Vegetarian Dishes to Try in Italy .

Sarde In Saor

(Pronounced sahrd een sah-ohr )

Saor means “flavor” in the local Venetian dialect, referring to the unique method of preparing foods with white onions, pine nuts , raisins, vinegar, and white wine , which can be used to amp up flavor profiles of various foods.

In this case, we are talking about local sardines but this flavor combination can be used on any other fish or vegan or vegetarian option such as eggplant in saor or shrimp in saor.

Where To Eat It: Trattoria alla Madddalena

Bigoli In Salsa

(Pronounced bee-goh-lee in sahl-sah in Italian)

Bigoli in salsa is one of the most famous first courses that you can try in Venice made from the regional spaghetti like pasta made from buckwheat flour dressed in a rich sauce made from anchovies and lots of white onion. 

Where To Eat It: Cantina Do Spade

Fegato Alla Veneziana

(Pronounced feh-gah-toh ahl-lah vehn-eh-zee-ah-nah in Italian)

Fegato alla Veneziana is the most iconic second course food in Venice made from thinly sliced calf liver sauteed with lots of caramelized onions , vinegar, white wine or lemon juice, perfectly balancing the hearty, earthy liver with the sweet onion. 

Usually it comes with some kind of polenta, grilled or served creamy as a mashed potato. 

I have been to Venice countless times and I am sorry to say I am still not brave enough to try fegato alla Veneziana!

Where To Eat It: Vini Da Gigio 

Spaghetti Al Nero Di Seppia

(Pronounced spah-geht-tee ahl neh-roh dee sehp-pee-eh in Italian)

Spaghetti al nero di seppia is one of the most iconic dishes you can eat while in Venice, made from a rich cuttlefish ink sauce , turning the spaghetti black!

Gluten-Free Travelers: For gluten-free folks, ask for risotto al nero di seppia , which is also very good and typically gluten-free.

Be forewarned, however, that the black ink does stain your clothes so be careful when you dig in! 

Where To Eat It: Ai Promessi Sposi

Carciofo Violetto di Sant’Erasmo

(Pronounced car-choh-foh vee-oh-leht-toh dee sant-ehr-az-moh in Italian)

Carciofi violetto di Sant’Erasmo are a variety of artichokes that grow only on the island of St. Erasmus just off the Venice mainland. They are characterized by their dark purple color and rich flavor. Look for them in risotto, pasta, salads and fried as appetizers in the winter and early spring. 

Where To Eat It: Vini Da Gigio

(Pronounced boo-rahn-ehl-lee in Italian)

Also known as bussolà or more recently nicknamed essi cookies, buranelli are small butter cookies most famously made on the small island of Burano , about an hour from the mainland in Venice. 

They are typically shaped into the letter “S” or into an “O”. You will find them everywhere and make for a great food souvenir to bring back from Venice . 

Where To Eat It: Palmisano Carmelina is the most famous bakery in Venice for these cookies and other traditional Venetian pastry such as bricole, fragolini, limoncini, zaeti veneti, dogi, caorline, sbreghette, cocchini, peverini, and moretti.

Focaccia Veneta

(Pronounced foh-kahch-chah veh-neh-tah in Italian)

Focaccia Veneta, sometimes called fugassa or fugassin in the local dialect, is a sweet bread similar to brioche traditionally made for the Easter holidays in Veneto (usually in April ) and is particularly popular in Venice! 

Where To Eat it: Colussi Il Fornaio

(Pronounced free-toh-leh in Italian)

Frìttelle, also known as fritolè, is one of Venice’s most famous foods to try in Venice if you happen to be in the magical city during the Carnival celebration.

Small balls of dough flavored with things like orange peel, lemon or candied fruit are deep fried and might be filled with ricotta, pastry cream , chocolate cream or hazelnut cream. 

You will notice them in every bakery in Venice in the New Year but be sure to check out the best bakeries in Venice to get the best ones in town. 

Where To Eat It: Tonolo or Rosa Salva, famous for coffee in Venice as well. 

(Pronounced geh-lah-toh in Italian)

While gelato might not be a food specific to Venice, it’s still one of the best desserts or snacks that you can have along the canals. Venice is known for cooking within the seasons and the gelato flavors on display are no different. Look for strawberry in the spring, peach in the summer and pear in the winter.

Where To Eat It: Gelateria di Natura or Suso are my two favorite gelaterias in Venice. For a comprehensive list of my other favorites read Where to Find the Best Gelato in Venice .

Food Itineraries in Venice

As a traveler in Venice, you could really plan a whole trip around eating and drinking in Venice, sampling some of the lagoons most famous and beloved dishes. 

After traveling to Venice for years and being in Italy for almost 15, I have created a 24 Hour Food Guide for Venice , providing you with the absolute best foodie itinerary in the floating city.

For travelers with a bit more time, consider my Two Day Venice Itinerary For Foodies with even more suggestions for trying the best food and drink in Venice.

Alternatively, you might consider looking into a food tour in Venice, guided by a local. Check out the following for a full immersion foodie experience in Venice, Italy.

Venice bound? Get prepared with all of our Venice posts: 20+ Must-Try Foods And Drinks In Venice – And My Favorite Places To Eat Them What Are Cicchetti? + Where To Eat Them In Venice What Is A Bacaro? + A Local’s Self Guided Bacaro Tour Itinerary My Favorite Cicchetti In Venice – The 10 Best Bacari To Try Best Restaurants in Venice + Nearest Cicchetti Stops Best Gelato In Venice – My Italian Family’s 10 Favorite Gelaterie 7 Food Markets In Venice Worth Your Time Where To Get Coffee In Venice Where To Eat Breakfast In Venice – A Local’s Favorite Breakfast Nooks 10 Amazing Bakeries In Venice – Where to Get Your Pastry On Best Spots In Venice For Aperitivo – My Top Bars & Squares for Pre-Dinner Drinks Dinner On The Water In Venice – My Top 7 Restaurants Best Pizza In Venice – My ‘Don’t Miss’ List My Favorite After Dinner Drink Spots In Venice Shopping at the Rialto Market in Venice – Tips + Printable 5 Street Foods To Try In Venice & Where Eat Them Best Places To Get Takeout In Venice – My Top Picks Where To Eat Before Catching Your Train At The Venice Santa Lucia Train Station My Favorite Food Chains To Try In Venice Eating Gluten-Free In Venice – Restaurants, Cicchetti & Gelato Gluten-Free Cicchetti In Venice – What To Order (& Avoid) and How to Order Eating Vegetarian In Venice – My Top Five Vegetarian Friendly Restaurants + Tips Eating Vegan In Venice, Italy – My Top Five Vegan Friendly Restaurants Eating in Venice While Pregnant 8+ Kid Friendly Restaurants In Venice Best Squares To Eat And Drink With Kids In Venice 24 Hour Food Guide For Venice – A Self Guided Tour For Foodies in Venice Eating Around Venice in 48 hours – 2 Day Venice Itinerary For Foodies 10 Best Food Souvenirs From Venice, Italy + Where I Buy Them

About The Author

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Venice's Hidden Gem Hotel Is a Tranquil Haven on a Private Island

Set amid olive trees and pockets of peace, the JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa is one of the best resorts in Venice, as voted by T+L readers. Here’s what it’s like to visit.

Food and Drink

• Activities and Amenities

Family-Friendly Offerings

• Accessibility and Sustainability
• How to Get the Most Value Out of Your Stay

Courtesy of JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa

Venice is one of the most visually impactful cities in Europe. Even if you’ve never visited in person, you’ll recognize the winding canals, gondolas, and photogenic bridges that have been part of its culture and identity for centuries. Given the history and romance surrounding Venezia , it’s one of the more popular places to visit in Italy — with nearly 4 million international travelers making their way to the collection of islands in 2022 alone, ultimately leading to the introduction of sustainability and over-tourism measures (see: a day-trip fee and a limit on tour group sizes ) to protect the ancient city. 

On a recent trip to the City of Water, one of its many nicknames, I decided to forgo the crowds of the main island and stay on the quieter Isola Delle Rose. A private island just a short 20-minute boat ride from Piazza San Marco, it’s home to JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa , which Travel & Leisure readers voted one of the city’s best hotels in the 2023 World’s Best Awards .

The location is certainly a key aspect of the property’s appeal, providing guests with a tranquil retreat from the most congested parts of Venice via a complimentary shuttle service. “We want [guests] to feel at home, where they can relax, unwind, and have world-class amenities at their fingertips,” says general manager Cristiano Cabutti. Those amenities include several restaurants, a rooftop bar, swimming pools, a spa, a rose garden, and a 100-tree olive grove, which guests can stroll at their leisure. Together, these features give the resort, brought to life by the Italian architect and designer Matteo Thun, a steady heartbeat and a holistic approach to hospitality. 

Courtesy of JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa

While the five-star, 266-room and suite hotel isn’t for every type of traveler — I’d suggest a smaller boutique property for solo travelers or those searching for a more lively or immersive experience — its kid-friendly amenities, waterfront spa, and proximity to Venice’s attractions make it an excellent option for families, or those visitors who may feel intimidated by crowds in the San Marco area. Travelers should note, though, that the resort is only open from March through November each year. 

Read on for my review of JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa.

JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa

• A complimentary water taxi takes guests to and from the resort and Piazza San Marco. 
• Rooms and suites are spread out between the main building, “The JW,” and four “JW Retreats,” one of which is the resort’s two-bedroom private villa. 
• The fitness room is well-designed and well-appointed — weight machines, treadmills, free weights, etc. 
• Overlooking the lagoon, JW Venice Spa boasts an indoor-outdoor pool, bio-sauna, and steam room.  
• The innovative plates and elevated atmosphere at Agli Amici Dopolavoro, a dining concept led by Chef Emanuele Scarello, should be enjoyed at least once during your stay. 

Elan Fleisher/Courtesy of JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa

Accommodation options are vast and varied at JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa, but all 266 rooms and suites have the same bright, modern decor with natural tones, accented by pops of light blue and pink to fit within the resort’s color scheme. Guests are welcome to book The JW rooms in the main building, but the JW Retreats are often more appealing, especially if you’re searching for relaxation. “We created a place where guests have access to more privacy, space, nature, and a home-from-home feeling,” says Cabutti, who notes that many of these more residential-style accommodations have gardens and private plunge pools. The star of the show, though, is Villa Rose, a two-bedroom standalone structure with a private pool and room enough for seven guests. 

As a traveler who makes it a point to dive into the local culinary “must-haves,” I was grateful to see the hotel’s eateries covered all the bases. I headed to the grab-and-go Dispensa Delicatessen on the morning of my arrival for a much-needed espresso. Then I went up to Sagra Rooftop Restaurant, where fresh pasta and seafood entrees populate the menu. The buffet breakfast at Cucina is particularly memorable, with an omelet station, bread, homemade butter, meats, cheeses, and pastries up for the taking. On my first night, I opted for pizza at the Saporè pop-up, but my final night on the island was reserved for Agli Amici Dopolavoro — a relatively new experience at JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa. 

Lydia Mansel/Travel + Leisure

Chef Emanuele Scarello, whose Agli Amici in Godia has earned two Michelin stars, will join Agli Amici Dopolavoro for the 2024 season. Expect local ingredients and produce — some from the neighboring vegetable garden — transformed into the kind of tasting menu that encourages the savoring of every bite. The cocktail program is equally impressive and forward-thinking; if your server recommends a drink topped with olive oil made on-site, it’s in your taste buds’ best interest to accept the suggestion. 

Activities and Amenities 

“There's something for everyone,” says Cabutti, referencing the various activities and amenities guests can take part in while staying on the property. Along with a spa, two pools (a rooftop pool and a family pool), and a fitness center, the resort ensures guests can build out their trips with walks through the rose garden and the olive grove, morning runs on the jogging path, cooking classes at the on-site Sapori Cooking Academy, or a variety of tours the concierge team is happy to organize upon request. 

Mirco Toffolo/Courtesy of JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa

Located on the lagoon's edge and away from the busier parts of the resort, JW Venice Spa is one of the property’s top highlights. Before or after a massage or facial in one of the eight treatment rooms, guests can take a dip in the indoor-outdoor vitality pool, read a book on the chaise lounge chairs, or spend some time in the steam room or sauna. After researching the benefits of Finnish sauna culture for another T+L story , I was pleasantly surprised and excited to test one out for myself; battling a relatively strong case of jet lag, I found it the perfect antidote to my sleep deprivation and overall travel fatigue. 

Some resorts may see younger guests as an afterthought, but the Kids Club at JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa puts their experiences at the forefront. The service is offered from 10:15 a.m. until 6:15 p.m. every day, and the participants are kept busy with both fun and educational programming, including volleyball games, badminton matches, and Venetian mask making. A family pool, water play fountain, playground, and classes at the Sapori Cooking Academy can also help fill smaller travelers’ itineraries.

Accessibility and Sustainability 

JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa has various accessibility features throughout the property. Service animals are welcome, and there are accessible entrances to the main building, pool, spa, restaurants, and guest rooms. Travelers can also select mobility-accessible rooms, rooms with self-closing doors, adjustable vanities, bathtub seats, and handrails. 

Sustainability is another focus point for the resort. “All of our partnerships have sustainability at the core of our ethos. This is evident across our culinary offerings — producing our own unique olive oil, growing our own produce in vegetable gardens which source our restaurants — and even our spa, which uses BAKEL treatments, a local clean beauty brand,” says Cabutti. The resort was also awarded the Green Key Certificate by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE).

Isola Delle Rose is a 40-acre artificial island, one that was home to a hospital in the early 20th century. In 2010, Marriott International began transforming the abandoned island into the resort area it’s known as today. The hotel’s water taxi is the easiest way to get to and from the island, but private boat transfers can also be arranged. My flight departing from Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE) was on the earlier side, so the latter option made the most sense — and it only took about an hour from door to door. 

How to Get the Most Value Out of Your Stay 

You're in luck if you have some Marriot Bonvoy points to spend or earn. JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa participates in the Marriott International global travel program, and room rates start from 50,000 points a night. To learn more about the program’s travel benefits or begin earning points toward a future stay, sign up online .

16 Things to Do in Venice Italy in One Day

Looking for things to do in Venice Italy in one day? We've got you.

Though I would never suggest you spend just one day in Venice, it helps to have a list of activities that you could accomplish in one day.

Whether you take your time or really do only have 24 hours to explore, I hope this list helps you to fit in as much as possible.

We were able to see Venice as part of a Viking Ocean Cruise . Not only did we begin the cruise in gorgeous Venice, but we saw parts of Slovenia, Croatia, Montenegro, and Greece. 

This meant checking off four new countries for me, finally taking the number of countries I've visited to over 40! Think of places you want to see and Viking probably goes there!

I think Italy has become my favorite country, especially after spending a week in Sicily last year and a week later exploring Venice for a few days. For a foodie like me, it's pretty much heaven.

Where is Venice Italy?

Located on the shores of the Adriatic Sea, the beautiful city of Venice is in the northeastern part of Italy. It’s about a six-hour drive from Rome. If you’re flying, you can get between Rome and Venice in about an hour.

Venice is actually not on the mainland part of Italy. It is an archipelago of islands all connected by bridges over a series of interconnected canals. 

This unique geography is why it has nicknames like City of Water, The Floating City, and City of Canals. The historic city and lagoon area are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Due to its coastal location, you’ll find Venice has cool and damp winters, sometimes even with snowfall, and warm, humid summers. The summer months might just be the best time to visit as the crowds like to explore the city in Spring and Fall.

Why We Love This City

There are so many reasons to love Venice. It’s no wonder why this is one of the most popular cities for tourists in the world. But here are some of the reasons why we love this city.

Food We love appetizers and Venice has so many small plate dishes like cicchetti (think Venetian tapas!) and bruschetta. The flavors are incredible.

Culture & History The Byzantine-influenced architecture of the city is simply stunning. Add to that all the incredible – and yet different – styles of bridges.

With 118 islands in Venice, of course, you’ll need bridges to get from one to another. The islands are linked by over 400 bridges. Though all pretty, there are only a handful that are famous, so it's worth the time to seek them out.

I take a travel guide everywhere I go so I can look things up as I explore.

Floating City In general, the idea of a floating city is really unique. Technically, the city is built on marshy land, but with a support system going back centuries to help keep buildings above the water.

The supports were built with wood, and although you’d think they would rot over the years, the lack of exposure to oxygen and the sediment in the water actually petrified the logs, making them durable today.

Even so, Venice is at risk from “acqua alta”, high water, as severe flooding has become more and more common.

Where to begin when exploring the Queen of the Adriatic? We have recommendations for you of the most important things to see in Venice Italy in one day.

See the Most Beautiful Bridges  

Venice may be the city of canals, but that means there are also a lot of bridges to cross the canals – more than 430 bridges!

These bridges are a mix of classical designs to modern designs, Some of the most well-known ones include the Scalzi Bridge, the Constitution Bridge (Ponte di Calatrava), and the Ponte dell’Accademia (the Academy Bridge).

Probably the most famous bridge is the Rialto Bridge, which spans over the Grand Canal. Make sure to grab a photo with the Rialto Bridge (Ponte di Rialto) in the background.

Of course, the Bridge of Sighs is famous, too, but for different reasons as you'll see below.

Visit Piazza San Marco  

Piazza San Marco, also known as St. Mark’s Square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most famous squares in all of Italy. It’s a must-do for your Venice itinerary! 

From the square, there are several other places you’ll want to explore, but the square itself is also worth exploring.

As a large, open square, it stands in contrast to the rest of Venice with narrow streets and alleys. It is one of the best places to grab a coffee and people watch.

Explore Basilica San Marco 

One of the most notable locations at St Mark’s Square is the Basilica San Marco (St. Mark’s). Inside, you’ll find fabulous mosaics, Byzantine-style architecture, relics of St. Mark, and more. 

There’s no admission fee to go in, but it can end up with long lines as it is a very popular place. Booking a guided tour is a good option to make sure you're able to see all the magnificent St. Mark's Basilica has to offer.

Even from the outside, however, this church has exceptional architectural features with intricate spires and domes. The gold shimmers in the sunlight on the wings of statues of angels and mosaics high above the church. 

Unfortunately, there was scaffolding up while we were there, but it was still beautiful.

Address: P.za San Marco, 328, 30100 Venezia VE, Italy

Hours: Daily 9:30 a.m. to 5:15 p.m.

Take a Tour of the 500-Year-Old St. Mark’s Bell Tower

Go up to the Bell Tower of Basilica San Marco for one of the best views of the whole city. You will need a ticket and it’s best to get it ahead of time as this is one of the top attractions.

Order online and print or screenshot (or both) your confirmation to show when you arrive.

Everyone was offering to take photos of each other.

The tower is about 99 meters high, and from the top, you can see Doge’s Palace, the Grand Canal, Venetian Lagoon, Bridge of Sighs, Rialto Bridge, and more.

This was one of my favorite things we did while in Venice.

Address: Piazza San Marco, 30124 Venezia, Italy

Hours: Daily, 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Take a Gondola Ride

Can you say you’ve been to Venice if you don’t take a gondola ride? A private gondola ride is one of those essential splurges that you’ll want to do.

In addition to being a unique experience, it is also the best way to see many of the highlights of the city.

See the Bridge of Sighs

The Ponte del Sospiri (the Bridge of Sighs) is a beautiful bridge with a tragic secret. On one side of the famous Bridge of Sighs is the Doge’s Palace, and on the other side is the prison. 

It is easy to imagine the sighs of sadness as people were taken between the court and the prison where they would face the horrors of the prison’s torture room or know that their freedom would be taken away in the courtroom.

Bridge of Sighs

For some, the view from this bridge was the last sight of the outside world they would ever see.

Experience Doge’s Palace

The original palace, Palazzo Ducale, was built around the 10th or 11th century. Its location being surrounded by a canal and fortress walls made it a solid location for the seat of government, armories, and the apartments of the Doge (the Venetian dukes).

Over the centuries, the palace was expanded and renovated as needs changed and the palace experienced fires over the years.

After the fall of the Venetian Republic in 1797, various groups used the palace as their center of government as well as home to cultural locations, like the Biblioteca Marciana.

Eventually, in 1923, the Italian State appointed the City Council of Venice to manage the building as a public museum, which it is today.

Address: P.za San Marco, 1, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy

Hours: Daily, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

See a Show at Gran Teatro La Fenice  

If you have time, book a show at the Venice Opera House. Even if you don’t have time, try to stop by and see this stunning venue. 

Don’t let the name fool you. If you’re not a fan of opera, there are many other music and dance performances offered. Give this location a try. There’s something about the setting that makes shows here extra special.

Address: Gran Teatro La Fenice , Campo San Fantin, 1965, 30124 Venice VE

Hours: La Fenice is open for daily visits from 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

See San Moisè

San Moisè church , dedicated to Moses, was built in the 7th century. Throughout the years, updates have been done to the church, including a stunning Baroque facade on the outside in the 1600s.

Inside the church are spectacular works of art that are well worth viewing, including an enormous piece behind the altar depicting Moses at Mount Sinai. 

Address: Salizada S. Moisè, 1390/A, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy

Hours: Daily, open 24 hours 

T ake a Break in the Royal Gardens  

In 1807, Napoleon decided to take over the Piazza San Marco area and the Procuratie Nuove building for a Royal Palace. And like any royal palace, royal gardens were installed. Over the years, the gardens were neglected, but now have been restored to their incredible beauty.

When we visited in October, the flowers were beautiful. During different times of year, the Royal Gardens is blooming with flowers like wisteria, begonia, and agapanthus.

There’s also a large focus on conservation and the use of natural resources to maintain this garden. All of the impressive work here is part of the reason why it has been awarded a European Heritage Award.

I know it seems there is never enough time to see everything, but do yourself a favor and relax for a bit in this area.

Address: P.za San Marco, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy

Hours: Closed Monday and Tuesday, Wednesday to Sunday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Spot the Lace Curtains

As you are wandering the streets of Venice, remember to look up. See if you can spot some of the lace curtains in the windows. 

Venice is known for lace, specifically Burano, from the school of Burano Lace. This fine lace made by needlework was once a status symbol for the nobles of Europe. Many of the houses have fine lace curtains that have been in their family for generations.

Save Some Time for Shopping

You’ll find plenty of souvenir shops so you can pick up something for those who couldn’t join you on the trip.

If you have money to burn (or even if you want to window shop as I did!), try San Marco Plaza for a peek into YSL, Dior, Bulgari Jewelers, and more.

All this exploring is sure to have you work up an appetite. Thankfully, the food in Venice is incredible!

Who doesn't love Italian food? What I love about this country is that the food in Venice was not the same as the food in Sicily or Rome. Each city has its own cuisine.

One food you’ve got to try is cicchetti – think of it as Venetian tapas or bar food. Cicchetti is many varieties of finger food (or food eaten with toothpicks) that you walk up, grab a bite, and head on.

Often, people stand at a bar in front of the kitchen where you can watch the preparation. Some of the foods you might find include meatballs, seafood preparations, and olives.

Sometimes these items are served on a slice of toasted baguette, other times just with a toothpick. This is my favorite way to dine as I can try a little of everything.

If you’re looking for something a bit more substantial, fried seafood is very popular and delicious in Venice. (A walk through the Rialto Market with its fish vendors can give you some idea why seafood in Venice is incredible. It doesn’t get fresher than that!) The calamari is downright addictive! 

Next, wash that food down with a local beer, like Messina. I fell in love with this Italian beer when I was in Sicily. It pairs perfectly with seafood!

Of course, you can’t forget dessert. When in Italy, you have to get a cannoli! 

Our favorite spots for dinner were Osteria da Bubi for seafood, Osteria Doge Morosini, Al Teatro for cappuccino and dessert, and Al Vaporetto Trattoria for pizza.

And at the end of it all, enjoy a moment of relaxation by having a cappuccino on Canal Grande. Look for the red benches around Venice–these are placed specifically for tourists and locals alike to sit and do some people watching.

Now that you have your list of things to do, start planning! A great way to spend a couple of days in Venice is to arrive early before a cruise with Viking Ocean Cruises. 

I knew sailing on a Viking Ocean Cruise was going to be an exceptional experience as I had sailed with them on river cruises several times.

My husband and I sailed on the Viking Rhone River Cruise 8 years ago and loved it so much we decided to take our adult daughters on a river cruise.

That sailing was on the Viking Rhine River Cruise , including seeing the Black Forest in Germany , and it was one of the best family trips we've taken.

I also took the Seine River Cruise in Paris in 2022 and it was truly unforgettable. We sailed from Paris to Normandy and back. If you go to Paris, make sure to bookmark my list of things to do in Paris at night !

When it comes to luxury cruises, Viking Cruises has it down to a science, which is why I can't seem to get enough!

Viking has been in the cruise business for over 25 years, beginning with just four longships to take "curious travelers" on culturally immersive sailings. Today, the company has more than 90 ships, including a dozen ocean ships and two expedition ships.

Why Should I Sail with Viking?

When planning a cruise vacation, this is the first question you want answered. With so many cruise companies vying for your attention, why should you choose to sail with Viking?

Luxury accommodations You can see our stateroom above. Viking Ocean is 100% Veranda Staterooms.

Spectacular Itineraries The itineraries designed by Viking Cruises are for guests who are interested in the history and culture of a destination.

Excellent food The specialty restaurants are fantastic, but I enjoyed all of them. I loved the special themed nights!

Amazing Excursions No one does excursions like Viking.

Passenger to Crew Ratio Nearly 2:1!

It's an easy decision once you know the facts! Visit the Viking website and start exploring.

Where Should You Stay in Venice?

Note that if you are seeing Venice as part of a cruise, it is not close to the cruise port. Viking gave us the option of a transfer, making it so much easier to get to the port than doing it on our own. The cruise port is on Chioggia Island, about an hour and a half south of the city center of Venice.

Viking can give you recommendations for where to stay. We ended up booking Calle de le Carrozze for a couple of nights because we wanted to be in the heart of the city.

Viking will take care of booking your travel, transfers, and even accommodations if you would just rather not worry about it. 

Top Tips for Visiting

Venice is planning to charge a tourist fee soon. It was supposed to begin this month, but is still in discussion. In addition, groups will be limited to 25 people beginning in June. Be sure to visit the Venice website before traveling.

Try to see the most famous sites early or late. Look at the opening time and go then if you can. You will probably avoid the biggest crowds.

Bring an umbrella. It can be rainy in Venice, so pack a travel umbrella. There aren’t a lot of places to just duck in during a shower if you’re out and about.

Be prepared to do a lot of walking. Although you can get around in Venice some with water bus stops or a water taxi, you’ll still need to do a lot of walking to get around quickly. Wear good walking shoes, and make sure you’ve broken them in ahead of time.

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Insider art: Vatican sets up Biennale pavilion at Venice women’s jail

Pope Francis to attend installation that includes short film featuring Zoë Saldaña and Giudecca inmates

O riginally a convent dating to the 13th century, and once a reformatory for prostitutes, the Giudecca women’s prison, set on an island in the Venetian lagoon, will this summer perform a quite different role: as the official pavilion for the Vatican at this year’s Venice Biennale .

Pope Francis is due to attend on 28 April – the first pontifical visit to the Biennale since it was founded in 1895. In the women’s prison he will see a work by Maurizio Cattelan, who notoriously created a hyper-real sculpture in 1999 depicting Pope John Paul II struck down by a meteorite.

For this exhibition, however, the Italian-born artist is contributing a work to be displayed on the facade of the prison chapel. Referencing Andrea Mantegna’s painting Lamentation Over the Dead Christ , it is a large-scale photograph of his own dirty, dusty feet.

Leading one of the first tours around the prison, which can be booked by members of the public, were three inmates, dressed in striking uniforms of navy and white that they had designed and made in the prison’s workshops. They introduced themselves only by their first names – Silvia, Emanuela and Paola.

After an introduction to the prison, Emanuela, a middle-aged woman with neat jewellery and a confident manner, took the group through to the first venue for art: the staff bar, which, with its bottles of Select and Aperol, could have been any bar in the city, albeit with somewhat cheaper price points.

On the walls are displayed radical poster works by Corita Kent , with graphic messages protesting against war and violence. Kent, who died in 1986 and is the only deceased artist featured in the show, spent part of her life as a nun.

Silvia took the lead as guests entered a long, narrow walkway between the prison buildings and its outer walls. The sides are lined with glazed lava stone slabs, painted by the artist Simone Fattal with excerpts of poems written by the prisoners. “Our feelings are written here; a piece of us is written on these works of art,” said Emanuela. On the end wall of the walkway, below a lookout post, was a work by Claire Fontaine, a Palermo-based art collective. Depicting a large eye with a stroke through it, it conveyed “the blindness of society”, said Paola, “what people don’t look at and what they don’t want to see”.

The tour continued past a large, lush vegetable garden thick with fruit trees and rows of artichoke plants. Working here, said Emanuela, “we can dream of other things; we can almost forget we are in prison”. The next stop was a wide open courtyard. A few inmates clustered beside a medieval well looked on as Emanuela explained a second Claire Fontaine work, a large neon text piece fixed to one of the walls reading: “ Siamo con voi nella notte ” – “We are with you in the night” – “which speaks to us as a message of solidarity from the people outside,” she said.

The tour then trooped through the visitors’ room, to a space in which a short film by the artist Marco Perego and his wife, the actor Zoë Saldaña, was being shown. Saldaña, who starred in James Cameron’s Avatar films, acted alongside inmates in a narrative about a prisoner on the day of her release. Describing the process, she saidthe work was meant “not so much like a documentary that has to be truthful – instead we encouraged [the inmates] to make a piece of art with us”.

The pavilion was commissioned by Cardinal José Tolentino de Mendonça, who runs the Vatican’s dicastery for culture and education. The co-curators Bruno Racine and Chiara Parisi took on the Vatican pavilion “on the basis of perfect trust with the cardinal, who is himself a renowned poet”, said Racine, a former director of the National Library of France. “He understands the psychology of an artist and the desire for autonomy and not to be subject to the influence of ideas from outside.”

Asked whether she was a Roman Catholic, one of the artists involved in the project, the French hip-hop choreographer Bintou Dembélé, laughed. “My religion is the street,” she said.

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Venice Biennale 2024: far too many dead artists, and not enough panache

There are some marvellous moments, but someone needs to say it: the 60th edition of the international exhibition has been a disappointment

Someone needs to say it: this hasn’t been a vintage year for the Venice Biennale . Foreigners Everywhere, the 60th edition of its international exhibition, arranged across the Central Pavilion in the Giardini and the cavernous Arsenale, may have a witty title, in the context of a city that profits so relentlessly from tourism. Yet it proves a disappointment, with far too many dead artists (isn’t the biennale supposed to be about contemporary art?), and not enough panache.

Its Brazilian curator, Adriano Pedrosa, celebrates artists from the Global South, along with other “foreigners” or outsiders including queer and indigenous artists as well as the self-taught. Tellingly, though, he came up with that title years ago, and his vision now feels stale. Western museums have been recalibrating themselves along these lines for at least a decade; several of Pedrosa’s “discoveries” – Saloua Raouda Choucair, Wifredo Lam, Fahrelnissa Zeid – have had solo exhibitions at the Tate.

Massimiliano Gioni’s brilliant 2013 biennale, The Encyclopedic Palace, also took “outsider” art as its theme, and articulated a lot of Pedrosa’s concerns with greater eloquence and flair; textiles are a “motif”, says Pedrosa, but they’ve been done to death in shows elsewhere. Where are the new ideas?

Moreover, Pedrosa champions too much pedestrian historical work for reasons of inclusivity rather than aesthetic merit: a salon-hung room of mediocre portraits is particularly feeble. The result is tired, not inspired, and unintentionally patronising – even awkwardly anthropological – in tone.

The presentations inside the national pavilions fare better. Drama 1882, by Egypt’s Wael Shawky, is a powerful eight-part operatic film about the nationalist Urabi revolution that precipitated the British bombardment of Alexandria; it is, in a sense, a kind of keening, minor-keyed counterpart to Lin-Manuel Miranda’s hit musical Hamilton, performed in classical Arabic, with a sorrowful score and insidious atmosphere, and mesmerising, perpetually undulating choreography, suggesting the shadowy give-and-take of diplomacy and treacherous intrigue. Tackling today’s de-rigueur topic of colonial history (see also: this year’s on-point Nigerian and Beninese pavilions), but with stylised, plangent grace, it left me in bits, and, by the second preview day, was deservedly attracting long queues.

By comparison, Gulsun Karamustafa, representing Turkey, has been overlooked, but her commanding sculptures of mass-produced plastic moulds for concrete Corinthian columns ingeniously hollow out an ancient symbol of Western civilisation, and are similarly wise and poised.

Canada’s pavilion is transformed, both inside and out, by thousands of strands of blue-glass “seed beads” (or “trinkets”, as European traders called them) once used as currency; alluding to “transoceanic trade”, Kapwani Kiwanga’s installation has a subtle, whispering and rustling, understated beauty.

Inside Poland’s pavilion, an audio-visual installation by the Ukrainian Open Group collective presents survivors of the Russia-Ukraine conflict imitating the whines of missiles and detonations, to heart-breaking effect. Their wails and thumps – to which viewers are invited to, as it were, sing along, as if participating in a vicious round of karaoke – sound like children innocently playing war games.

Various festive and feel-good, if somewhat frivolous, offerings counteract the tragedy – including Julien Creuzet’s colourful suspended sculptures, like coral reefs or intricate dream-catchers, which, accompanied by a subwoofer soundtrack, turn the French pavilion into a sort of chic, subaquatic party.

Otherwise, I look forward to encountering more of Japanese Yuko Mohri’s frisky kinetic sculptures involving plastic tubes and pieces of fruit, like strange experiments in a mad scientist’s laboratory; likewise, Iceland’s Hildigunnur Birgisdottir, whose blink-and-you’d-miss-it conceptual takedown of Western consumerism is original and smart.

Elsewhere, among the collateral events and exhibitions coinciding with the biennale, Yu Hong (commissioned by the National Gallery of Canada) and Berlinde de Bruyckere both offer memorable installations within Venetian churches; the latter’s ghoulish grey “archangels”, shrouded in animal skins, haunt Andrea Palladio’s San Giorgio Maggiore like Death Eaters.

There are death’s-heads aplenty, too, across the lagoon, in a show of black-and-white photography by the American Peter Hujar, whose 1976 book, Portraits in Life and Death, juxtaposed the mummified denizens of Palermo’s catacombs (framed to appear like puppets in some macabre drama) with his own avant-garde friends, whom he often captured lounging around in bed, as if engaging the viewer in pillow talk.

The Peggy Guggenheim Collection’s exhibition about the modern French scenester and polymath Jean Cocteau is breezy and entertaining, with much curly-haired smut amid the classicism, even if I didn’t buy its revisionist thesis that this opium-addicted dabbler’s Picasso-lite drawings should be taken seriously.

And, while Pedrosa, in the main exhibition, finds room for only 10 artists born in the United States, there are several noteworthy shows devoted to colossi associated with mid-century America, including that self-proclaimed sign-painter Robert Indiana, whose crisp work strangely suits the corporate vibe inside the Procuratie Vecchie on St Mark’s Square.

At the Fondazione Cini, 96-year-old Alex Katz presents three recent series of paintings, including several vast, glowing prairies, animated by flickering, twitching blades of grass, and a suite of hurtling and dynamic, nigh-on-abstract vistas of ominously black oceanic water specked with foam and spray, like midnight snowfall – the antithesis of hackneyed, evanescent visions of the Venetian lagoon.

And, at the Gallerie dell’Accademia, Willem de Kooning and Italy is an immaculately curated, dazzling tour de force, with satisfying bronze sculptures that appear as squidgy as mozzarella, paintings of carpaccio-coloured, spread-eagled figures, and gelato-coloured abstract canvases of phenomenal power that bespeak a sort of rapturous, holiday abandonment. Buon appetito!

Details: labiennale.org

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