The Six Districts of Venice

The Six Districts of Venice: A Complete Guide for Travelers

When visiting Venice, it’s easy to get lost among canals, bridges, and narrow alleys. But did you know that the city is divided into six historic districts, called sestieri? Each has its own personality, history, and hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. Exploring the sestieri is one of the best ways to experience Venice beyond the main tourist routes.

Whether you are wandering through lively squares, discovering artisan workshops, or enjoying an intimate boat tour of the lagoon, here’s everything you need to know about the six districts of Venice.

1. San Marco – The Beating Heart of Venice

San Marco is the most famous district, home to St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, and the iconic Piazza San Marco. This is where history and grandeur meet: once the political and religious center of the Venetian Republic, today it’s the city’s most visited area.

  • Highlights: Basilica di San Marco, Campanile, Bridge of Sighs

  • Atmosphere: Elegant, historical, and always vibrant

  • Tip: For a unique view of San Marco, book a boat tour in the San Marco Basin at sunset – the golden light reflecting on the basilica is unforgettable.

2. San Polo – The Market and Rialto

The smallest of the six districts, San Polo is famous for the Rialto Bridge and the bustling Rialto Market. This is where Venetians still shop for fresh fish, fruit, and vegetables, just as they have for centuries.

  • Highlights: Rialto Bridge, Rialto Market, Church of San Giacomo di Rialto

  • Atmosphere: Authentic, lively, and full of Venetian tradition

  • Tip: Stop in one of the nearby bacari for cicchetti (Venetian tapas) paired with a spritz.

3. Dorsoduro – The Artistic District

Dorsoduro is the artistic heart of Venice, filled with museums, art galleries, and a vibrant student atmosphere. It’s a district where culture meets laid-back charm.

  • Highlights: Gallerie dell’Accademia, Peggy Guggenheim Collection, Zattere promenade

  • Atmosphere: Creative, youthful, and bohemian

  • Tip: Take a stroll along the Zattere waterfront at sunset, or enjoy an aperitif boat tour that passes by this area with views of Giudecca island.

4. Cannaregio – The Authentic Venice

Cannaregio is one of the largest sestieri, known for its local atmosphere and charming canals. It’s home to the Jewish Ghetto, one of the oldest in Europe, and countless authentic osterie.

  • Highlights: Jewish Ghetto, Madonna dell’Orto Church, Strada Nova

  • Atmosphere: Local, authentic, less touristy

  • Tip: Wander the backstreets near Fondamenta della Misericordia for the best nightlife and traditional Venetian dining.

5. Castello – Tradition and Tranquillity

Castello stretches from the bustle of San Marco to quiet, residential neighbourhoods where Venetians still live. It’s also home to the historic Arsenale and the Biennale Gardens.

  • Highlights: Arsenale, Venice Biennale, Riva degli Schiavoni promenade

  • Atmosphere: Traditional, quiet, and rich in history

  • Tip: From the Riva degli Schiavoni, you can enjoy one of the best views over San Giorgio Maggiore – perfect to admire by private boat.

6. Santa Croce – Hidden Venice

Santa Croce is the least visited of the sestieri, making it a great choice for travellers who want to escape the crowds. It’s a mix of quiet corners, hidden churches, and local life.

  • Highlights: Ca’ Pesaro, San Stae Church, Papadopoli Gardens

  • Atmosphere: Residential, calm, and underrated

  • Tip: Explore its quiet canals before heading out on a boat excursion to the Venetian Lagoon for a completely different perspective of the city.

Exploring Venice One District at a Time

Each of the six districts of Venice offers a different experience: from the grandeur of San Marco to the hidden charm of Santa Croce. By exploring them all, you’ll discover that Venice is not just a postcard city, but a living, breathing world of history, art, and local traditions.

And if you truly want to experience the magic of Venice, step off the streets and onto the water: a boat tour around the island and its lagoon reveals the sestieri from their most authentic and enchanting perspective. Just drop us a message here at Vidal Venice Tours!