If you’re looking for a less touristy area to explore in Venice, Dorsoduro is the perfect choice. Located on the southern side of the Grand Canal, this neighborhood offers a unique blend of history, art, and culture. Here are some of the top things to do in Dorsoduro:

Visit the Peggy Guggenheim Collection

One of the most popular attractions in Dorsoduro is the Peggy Guggenheim Collection. This museum showcases modern art from the early 20th century, with works by artists such as Salvador Dali, Jackson Pollock, and Pablo Picasso. The collection is housed in Peggy Guggenheim’s former home, a stunning 18th-century palazzo overlooking the Grand Canal. Be sure to take a stroll through the sculpture garden and enjoy the beautiful views.

Tips for visiting the Peggy Guggenheim Collection:

• Buy your tickets in advance to skip the lines.
• – Consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the artwork and the history of the collection.
• – Don’t miss the temporary exhibitions, which change throughout the year.

Explore the Gallerie dell’Accademia

The Gallerie dell’Accademia is another must-visit museum in Dorsoduro. This museum is home to a vast collection of Venetian art from the 14th to the 18th centuries, including works by famous artists such as Titian, Tintoretto, and Canaletto. The building itself is a work of art, with high ceilings and spacious halls that allow you to fully appreciate the artwork.

Tips for visiting the Gallerie dell’Accademia:

• Plan to spend at least a few hours exploring the museum.
• – Consider purchasing a combined ticket with the Peggy Guggenheim Collection to save money.
• – Audio guides are available for an additional fee.

Take a walk along the Zattere

The Zattere is a long promenade that runs along the southern edge of Dorsoduro. This area offers some of the best views in Venice, with the Giudecca Canal on one side and historic buildings on the other. The Zattere is a great place to relax and take in the scenery, or to stop for a gelato or a coffee.

Tips for walking along the Zattere:

• Wear comfortable shoes, as the promenade is quite long.
• – Bring your camera to capture the stunning views.
• – Consider stopping at one of the cafes or restaurants for a drink or a bite to eat.

Visit the Church of San Sebastiano

The Church of San Sebastiano is a beautiful example of Venetian Renaissance architecture. This church is home to a series of stunning frescoes by Paolo Veronese, one of the most famous Venetian artists of the 16th century. The frescoes depict scenes from the life of St. Sebastian, as well as other biblical stories.

Tips for visiting the Church of San Sebastiano:

• Check the opening hours before you go, as the church is not always open to the public.
• – Dress appropriately, as this is a place of worship.
• – Don’t miss the beautiful altarpiece by Lorenzo Lotto.

Take a boat ride to the island of Giudecca

Just across the Giudecca Canal from Dorsoduro is the island of Giudecca. This island offers a quieter, more residential alternative to the bustling streets of Venice. Take a boat ride over to Giudecca and explore the charming streets, visit the Church of the Redeemer, or enjoy a meal at one of the local restaurants.

Tips for visiting the island of Giudecca:

• Take the vaporetto (water bus) from the Zattere to reach Giudecca.
• – Consider renting a bike to explore the island.
• – Don’t miss the stunning views of Venice from the Church of the Redeemer.

In conclusion, Dorsoduro is a neighborhood that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in art, history, or just taking in the beautiful scenery, there are plenty of things to see and do in this charming area of Venice. So why not add Dorsoduro to your Venice itinerary and experience all that this unique neighborhood has to offer?