The Old Customs House of Venice (Dogana da Mar): A Golden Landmark at the Edge of the Grand Canal
If you’re exploring Venice by boat, one of the most iconic and breath-taking sights is the Old Customs House, or Dogana da Mar. Perched at the tip of the Dorsoduro district, this historic building is more than just a beautiful structure — it tells the story of Venice’s golden age of maritime trade. Whether you’re sailing past it on a boat tour or admiring it from across the water in San Marco, the Punta della Dogana is an unforgettable part of the Venetian skyline.
A Glimpse Into Venice’s Trade Legacy
The Dogana da Mar was built between 1677 and 1682 during the final centuries of the Venetian Republic. Strategically located where the Grand Canal meets the Giudecca Canal, it served as the main customs house for ships arriving in the lagoon. Every vessel that entered Venice with goods from abroad had to pass through this point — making the building a symbol of control, wealth, and maritime power.
Designed by architect Giuseppe Benoni, the Dogana da Mar features a triangular layout, perfect for overseeing both major waterways. The most recognizable feature is the golden globe on the roof, supported by two Atlases and topped with a rotating statue of Fortuna — the Roman goddess of fortune — acting as a weather vane. It’s a fitting emblem for a city whose destiny was shaped by the winds of commerce and the sea.
A Renaissance Landmark, Reborn for Modern Travellers
Today, the Old Customs House has been transformed into a cultural treasure. After decades of neglect, it was restored by Japanese architect Tadao Ando and reopened in 2009 as a contemporary art museum, part of the Pinault Collection. While the interior hosts rotating exhibitions, the exterior remains a highlight of any boat tour in Venice.
From the water, the Punta della Dogana offers an unbeatable view of San Marco, the Salute Church, and the wide expanse of the lagoon. It’s a favorite stop on our tours at Vidal Venice Tours, especially during golden hour when the sunlight bounces off the golden globe, illuminating the city’s past and present in one magical moment.
Why You Should Visit Punta della Dogana by Boat
The Dogana da Mar isn’t just a building — it’s a gateway into Venice’s soul. Reaching it by boat allows you to experience the structure the way merchants and sailors did centuries ago. You’ll float right by the customs point, just like the galleons of old, while enjoying an intimate and informative tour of Venice’s lesser-known stories.
Whether you’re booking a sunset boat tour, a romantic aperitivo cruise, or a full day trip in the Venetian Lagoon, don’t miss the chance to view this majestic site up close.
Book Your Stunning Boat Tour in Venice
At Vidal Venice Tours, we take you beyond the tourist crowds and into the true heart of the lagoon and its hidden canals. Our small-group boat tours are the perfect way to explore Venice’s historic landmarks — like the Dogana da Mar — from a unique and unforgettable perspective.
➡️ Book your private boat tour today and discover the magic of Venice from the water.