The Grand Canal

The Grand Canal

An emblematic stop on the Venice audio-guided tour, the Grand Canal is often the first thing one discovers in the city. Like one of the most beautiful avenues in the world, it is lined with splendid churches and palaces, spaced out like trees along a road.

The main artery of Venice

Dividing the city in two over four kilometres, the Grand Canal is the main maritime communication axis of Venice. Without interruption, vaporettos, gondolas and boats of all sizes ply it throughout the day, in a true naval ballet without signage.

What to see

Without necessarily being on the water, the Grand Canal and its panoramas can be enjoyed from the bridges and quays. But a ride by vaporetto or gondola remains the finest way to discover its palaces and grasp the maritime soul of Venice.

Practical information

The Grand Canal crosses Venice over four kilometres. It can be discovered from the bridges and quays, freely accessible, or aboard the vaporettos and gondolas, whose routes and fares should be checked depending on the season.

How long is the Grand Canal ?

About four kilometres, dividing Venice in two.

How to travel along the Grand Canal ?

Aboard a vaporetto or gondola, or from the bridges and quays that line it.