Guide for the Dorsoduro district of Venice

The Dorsoduro district is a relatively central area of the city, located on the opposite side of the Grand Canal from the San Marco district. But, at the same time it offers the visitor a chance to explore a delightful part of the city free from the crowds of San Marco.

Dorsoduro boasts numerous attractions including:

The Accademia Gallery provides the most complete overview of Venetian art history through the centuries. The permanent exhibition includes works by Tintoretto, Veronese, Giorgione, Bellini, Titian and Tiepolo. The museum is housed in a structure designed by Palladio.

The Peggy Guggenheim Museum has an extensive exhibition of 19th century paintings and modern works of Art. Set on the banks of the Grand Canal, the Gardens enjoy a delightful view of the main street of Venice.

The Santa della Maria Salute Church is one of the most famous landmarks of Venice. Standing at the entrance to the Grand Canal. Built to celebrate the end of a plague that killed over a third of Venice's population, it's baroque style evokes the themes of heaven and water, and was held as the symbol of Venice's victory over the plague.

Guidecca Island is part of the Dorsoduro district. From behind the Accademia galleries you can enjoy views of the island and Palladio's Redentore Church which was also built to celebrate the end of an earlier plague. The Island is home to the famous Cipriani Hotel.

The recently restored Ca' Rezzonico is a delightful baroque Palazzo on the Grand Canal that preserves delightful frescoes by Tiepolo and is furnished with precious original furniture. Nearby you'll find one of Venice's last surviving Gondola workshops.

Campo Santa Margherita is the heart of the Dorsoduro district and a popular venue for the Venetians to congregate in the evening hours. Lined with lively bars and cafe's, it's a popular place for students to hang-out.

 

Other Districts of Venice