Ride a gondola or water bus down Canal Grande. A major water-traffic corridor, it winds through the city's central districts. Along its banks, you can see more than 170 buildings, including several palaces. Most of the buildings were erected between the 13th and 18th centuries, reflecting the prosperity and art of the once-powerful Republic of Venice. Forming a kind of reverse S-shape, the canal probably follows the course of an ancient river, eventually emptying its waters into a lagoon. The canal is 3.8 km (2.4 mi) long and 30 to 90 m (98 to 295 ft) wide. Centuries-old traditions, such as a historical regatta, are held every year along this ancient canal. Use our Venice trip planner to visit Canal Grande on your trip to Venice, and learn what else travelers and our writers recommend seeing nearby.
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Tours to Canal Grande
Canal Grande reviews
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Beautiful in every aspect. The Canale Grande is the main sight of Venice and extremly entertaining. I could spend hours sitting on the banks and watch the boats and Gondolas go by, with a delicious... more »
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There is so much to see along the grand canal. Beautiful buildings and lots of kerb side cafes and restaurants to choose from although there is only the Rialto bridge to cross over. Plenty of... more »
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Main way to travel in Venice
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Amazing! Definitely created goosebumps upon first site!!!
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Trips to Canal Grande by other users
8 days in Italy
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Attraction style: Popular sights
Pace: Medium
8 days in Europe
BY A USER FROM DENMARK
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Preferences: February, teens, romantic, beaches, shopping
Attraction style: Popular & hidden gems
Pace: Fast-paced
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BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
April, popular sights
Preferences: April
Attraction style: Popular sights
Pace: Medium
59 days in Europe
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
May, popular sights
Preferences: May
Attraction style: Popular sights
Pace: Medium
10 days in Europe
BY A USER FROM MOROCCO
March, popular sights
Preferences: March
Attraction style: Popular sights
Pace: Medium
8 days in Europe
BY A USER FROM MOROCCO
March, popular sights
Preferences: March
Attraction style: Popular sights
Pace: Medium
