Most people only envision Venice bathed in brilliant sunlight, but this city is equally stunning after the sun goes down, and there are plenty of things to do in Venice at night. Visitors who tour this magical city under the moon enjoy cooler weather, lovely lighting, and fewer crowds than during the day. Do yourself a favor and go on a tour of Venice after dark.
1. Experience St. Mark’s Basilica Alone at Night
Since St. Mark’s Basilica is the most popular attraction in Venice, it should come as no surprise that it’s also the most difficult building to get inside. It’s not uncommon for there to be an hour’s long wait outside St. Mark’s, especially in the spring and summer. If you want to have a more intimate experience of this beautiful basilica, then you should consider visiting later in the day.
On a night tour of St. Mark’s Basilica you’ll have the opportunity to see all the major artifacts without bumping into crowds of tourists. One special feature of visiting St. Mark’s at night is that you’ll see the chruch’s famous Byzantine mosaics illumined by interior lights. People who go on a nighttime tour of St. Mark’s Basilica also enjoy easy access to the bejeweled Pala d’Doro altarpiece and the burial crypt.
Saint Mark’s Basilica Night Tour – Small Group | Access After Hours
Various dates 90 mins
2. Tour Venice’s Ghostly Haunts After Dark
One of the more popular things to do in Venice at night is to take a ghost tour…that is, unless you’re afraid. You’ll be shocked by all the spooky stories of haunted palaces, murders, and ghost sightings throughout this city. A popular stop on ghost tours is the Casino degli Spiriti, which is a building in the Cannaregio area. Many locals claim they’ve heard the cries of a 16th century painter named Luzzo from this building. It’s believed Luzzo committed suicide in the Casino due to an unrequited love.
Another location with history of paranormal activity is the Palazzo Grassi on the Grand Canal. According to legend, a girl jumped from this residence into the Grand Canal many years ago. Ever since that day, people who visit this home claim to hear voices calling out their names. These are just a few of the spine-tingling tales you’ll hear and experience first-hand on a nighttime tour of Venice.
Venice Private Ghost Tour with Gondola
Every day at 5PM, 6PM or 7PM 2 hrs
3. A Gondola Ride Under The Stars
For those more interested in a relaxing nighttime tour of Venice, why not take a gondola ride? Everyone who visits the “City of Canals” must take one gondola tour at some point, and there’s no more romantic way to explore this city than under moonlight. Definitely consider going on a nighttime gondola ride if you’re in Venice on honeymoon.
Venice Private Evening Stroll with Gondola
Every day at 7pm 2.5 hrs
4. Explore the Beauty of Doge’s Palace at Night
Like nearby St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace is an extremely popular tourist draw in Venice. Once the residence of the most powerful man in the city, the Doge’s Palace is now a museum open to the public. Also like St. Mark’s Basilica, it’s a great idea to visit the Doge’s Palace at night and imagine. The ambiance is something so extraordinary that you may feel the presence of Casanova roaming the Venetian porticos.
Venice is magical any time of day, but there’s something extra special about this city at night. These are just a few of the many things to do in Venice at night that will take your breath away.