Venice is a unique city in the world, as we all know. With its narrow streets and alleys, its bridges, squares, and stunning views of the canals and lagoon, it captivates everyone. But the spectacle of a view from above is priceless. From a high vantage point, you can capture unique details that you wouldn’t be able to see while walking among the buildings, shops, and churches. Roof decorations, the typical wooden terraces on top of buildings (the so-called altane), and the fantastic Venice skyline at sunset with ever-changing colors depending on the day, all lend themselves perfectly to those wanting to capture a postcard-perfect panorama of the city.
In this article, we will propose 10 places that boast a privileged view of the city. So, what are you waiting for? Grab a pen and paper and note down the most beautiful panoramic terraces in Venice.
1. St. Mark's Campanile
Foto dal web
How could we not include "El Parón de casa" (the master of the house), as the Venetians call it? The view from the top of St. Mark's Campanile is perhaps the most famous in Venice and a prime spot to observe the Bacino San Marco, the entire square with the Basilica and Doge's Palace, as well as the Church of the Salute and Punta della Dogana. The Campanile, standing at 99 meters tall, is open to visitors every day from 9:30 AM to 8.45 PM. An elevator will take you up to the observation point: here, the chimes of the bell tower will accompany your breathtaking view on the hour.
The entrance fee is 10,00 euro. We recommend visiting the Campanile early in the morning to avoid a long wait.
2. Campanile of San Giorgio Maggiore (Island of San Giorgio)
Foto di Giada Frigerio
San Giorgio Maggiore is a small island located in front of San Marco, home to the church of the same name, designed by Palladio and featuring a bell tower. The bell tower offers a 360° view of the lagoon and the city, with San Marco and the island of Giudecca in the foreground. While watching the relaxed passage of boats, gondolas, and vaporetti, you can enjoy a complete panorama of Venice and the surrounding islands. From here, you can capture a series of shots featuring the Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Campanile. The San Giorgio bell tower is also accessible by elevator and is open for visits everyday, from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM. The ticket price to access the bell tower is 6,00 euro. Entrance to the church is free, except during liturgical services. For more information, you can visit the website www.abbaziasangiorgio.it.
Reaching the island is very simple: just take the Actv vaporetto line 2, stopping at San Giorgio, departing from S. Marco/ S. Zaccaria.
3. Contarini del Bovolo Staircase
Foto di Roberta Breda
A few steps from Campo Manin hides an architectural gem of Venice: the Scala Contarini del Bovolo. Characterized by three different artistic styles (Veneto-Byzantine, Gothic, and Renaissance), this spiral staircase was commissioned by the Venetian noble Pietro Contarini in the late 15th century to beautify the facade of his palace. From the top of the circular terrace of the Scala, you can enjoy a view of the surrounding buildings, among which the imposing figure of St. Mark's Campanile and the five unmistakable domes of St. Mark's Basilica stand out.
The Scala Contarini del Bovolo is open for visits every day from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The entrance fee is 8,00 euro. For more information, please visit: https://www.gioiellinascostidivenezia.it/
4. St. Mark's Clocktower
Foto di Valeria Tuzzato
The Clock Tower serves as an archway to Venice's ancient commercial street, the Mercerie. Named for its astronomical clock, the Tower can be visited by reservation with a specialized guide. Climbing a steep spiral staircase leads you to the Terrace of the Moors, where you can admire the entire St. Mark's Square, the rooftops of Venice, and the island of San Giorgio Maggiore. Additionally, you can get a close view of the colossal bronze statues of the two Moors with the bell. Entrance to the Tower is 14,00 euro, and children under the age of 6 are not allowed. For more information, please visit: https://torreorologio.visitmuve.it/
5. The "Fondaco dei Tedeschi"
Foto di Roberta Breda
Another privileged view of the city, particularly of the Grand Canal, is offered by the panoramic terrace located on the roof of the Fondaco dei Tedeschi. The history of this building dates back to the 13th century when it was used for commercial purposes by German merchants during the Republic of Venice. After being owned by the Italian Post Office for a long time, it was sold to the Benetton group in 2008 and finally reopened in 2016 after a renovation, transforming it into a luxury shopping center. Since its opening, it has been possible to access the panoramic rooftop, passing through a large hall that hosts temporary art exhibitions. From here, an unbeatable view of the Rialto area, the Bridge, and the Canal opens up.
The visit to the terrace is free, but reservation is mandatory on their website. For safety reasons, it is managed in 15-minute shifts with a maximum of 80 people allowed at a time. You can book your visit directly on-site by checking availability: https://www.dfs.com/it/venice/service/rooftop-terrace
6. "Hilton Molino Stucky" Hotel
Foto di Skyline Rooftop Bar, Hilton
From the Skyline Rooftop Bar at the luxury Hilton Molino Stucky hotel, a former Venetian mill dating back to the late 19th century and located on the island of Giudecca, you can enjoy a magnificent view of the Giudecca Canal and Venice. On the eighth floor of the building, there is the hotel's terrace with a bar and swimming pool, which is also accessible to external guests. Here, you can enjoy a chic aperitif while delighting in one of the most beautiful panoramas of Venice. The drinks may cost a bit more than average, but when you sit down and sip a glass of wine with this stunning view, you'll think it's well worth it.
7. "Ai due Fanali" Hotel
Foto di Roberta Breda
The Hotel Ai Due Fanali is a small but truly charming hotel located in the Santa Croce district, just a few steps from Santa Lucia Train Station. The breakfast terrace, situated on a typical wooden altana, with its colorful chairs and enchanting view of the buildings, including a beautiful secret garden of a palace, will captivate you with its simplicity. Unfortunately, the altana is available only to the hotel guests.
8. "JW Marriott" Hotel – Rose's Island
Foto di Valeria Tuzzato
Founded in the late 19th century, the Isola delle Rose is the youngest Venetian island, strategically located halfway between the lagoon and the sea, with a climate that has allowed for the growth of lush vegetation. Once home to a respiratory clinic, today the small island hosts only the luxury hotel JW Marriott Venice. This fantastic hotel, equipped with every comfort, features a beautiful terrace with a pool and rooftop bar, the Sagra Poolside Bar, which will captivate you with a splendid and luxurious 360° view of Venice and its lagoon.
The resort offers guests a shuttle service that connects the island with San Marco, thanks to a private dock located in front of the Giardinetti Reali. For more information, you can visit the website: https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/vcejw-jw-marriott-venice-resort-an...
9. The "Loggia" of St. Mark's Basilica
Foto di Valeria Tuzzato
An unmissable view can be enjoyed from the Loggia of St. Mark's Basilica. From here, you have a beautiful panorama that includes St. Mark's Square, the Bacino, and the Doge's Palace. On the terrace, you will also find copies of the four gilded bronze horses, the originals of which (dating back to the 2nd century BC) are kept inside to protect them from weather damage. Entrance to the Loggia costs €5 and it is open daily from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM.
10. Campanile of Torcello (Island of Torcello)
Foto di Valeria Tuzzato
Another privileged vantage point is offered by the Torcello Campanile, located on the island of the same name, not far from Burano. After reaching the top of the Campanile on foot, you can enjoy a splendid view of the entire island, as well as the Venetian lagoon. The Campanile, dating back to the 11th century, is open for visits every day from 10:30 AM to 4:30 PM The ticket price is 5,00 euro. For more information, you can visit the website www.itorcello.it or download the iTorcello app on your smartphone.
To reach the island of Torcello, you can take the Actv vaporetto line 12 from F.te Nove to Burano, and then the line 9 from Burano to Torcello (every 30 minutes).
In conclusion, Venice's panoramic terraces offer unparalleled views that capture the city's timeless beauty and enchanting atmosphere from unique vantage points. Whether you're marveling at the majestic skyline from the Fondaco dei Tedeschi, soaking in the luxurious ambiance at the Skyline Rooftop Bar, or enjoying a serene overlook from the Torcello Campanile, each terrace provides a distinct perspective that enhances your Venetian experience. These elevated spots not only offer breathtaking sights of the canals, historic buildings, and vibrant piazzas but also allow you to immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of this magnificent city. So next time you find yourself wandering through Venice, make sure to visit these panoramic terraces to witness the city in all its glory, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
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