Favourite historic site
Palazzo Grimani isa rare gem that never ceases to enchant, above all for its spectacular Tribuna, a chamber filled with valuable marbles, restored to its original splendour with the support of Venetian Heritage. The Renaissance art of collecting becomes architecture, offering a truly hypnotic aesthetic experience.
Best shopping
Micheluzzi Glass, located near the Gallerie dell’Accademia, is a must-visit for anyone seeking unparalleled artisanal excellence. The daughters of the renowned Murano glassmaker Massimo Micheluzzi continue his legacy, creating stunning sculptural works and refined textures.
The Gardens of the Church of the Redeemer on Giudecca Photo: Paolo Reda—REDA
A hidden gem
The Gardens of the Church of the Redeemer on Giudecca, lovingly restored with the support of the Venice Gardens Foundation, are a sanctuary of discovery. This extensive space is an oasis of peace, blending contemporary art, nature and landscape design.
Best place for authentic Venetian cuisine
For those seeking time-honoured flavours of the lagoon, there’s only one destination: Antiche Carampane, a few steps from the Rialto Bridge. It is a bastion of Venetian tradition.
The Dries Van Noten Foundation Courtesy Fondazione Dries Van Noten
Best new place to be
The brand-new Dries Van Noten Foundation, recently opened in the 15th-century Palazzo Pisani Moretta, offers an immersive journey through the Belgian designer’s distinctive aesthetic, in a stunning space that promises to become a new hub for lifestyle and creativity.
Favourite lagoon island
San Giorgio Maggiore is a vibrant cultural hub, home to Cini Foundation, Stanze del Vetro and the newly opened Stanze della Fotografia. Every two years, the island comes alive with Homo Faber, the Michelangelo Foundation’s extraordinary celebration of craftsmanship.
Gregory/Adobe Stock
Best place for a spritz
Without a doubt, Codroma, in the heart of Dorsoduro—a place that has preserved its authentic charm. Sipping a spritz here means participating in a historic ritual steeped in the real essence of the neighbourhood. Accompanying cicchetti, served in the Venetian tradition, are the perfect complement.
Trevor Paglen's Voyager (2026) in the exhibition Strange Rules © Trevor Paglen; courtesy the artist and Jessica Silverman Gallery, San Francisco, and Pace Gallery, New York
Most eagerly awaited exhibition
Strange Rules, at Palazzo Diedo’s Berggruen Arts & Culture, is more than a traditional exhibition. This interdisciplinary research project—curated by Hans Ulrich Obrist—delves into aesthetics at the intersection of new technologies, AI and artistic creation.
