Venice is divided into six districts or “sestieri”, which are historical quarters of the city. These six sestieri are Cannaregio, Castello, Dorsoduro, San Marco, San Polo and Santa Croce. Each district has its own unique history, architecture and atmosphere and offers different sights and activities for visitors.
The districts of Venice
Venice is divided into six main districts, known as “sestiere”. Each sestiere has its own charm, history and special features. Here is an overview of the six sestiere of Venice:
- San Marco: San Marco is the most famous sestiere and is home to the famous St. Mark’s Square and St. Mark’s Basilica. Here you will also find the magnificent Doge’s Palace, which was once the political center of the Republic of Venice. San Marco is a lively and bustling part of the city, lined with numerous cafés, restaurants and stores.
- Cannaregio: Cannaregio is the largest sestiere and offers an authentic atmosphere with narrow streets and small canals. Here you will find the Santa Lucia train station and the Jewish Ghetto, a historic site of Jewish life in Venice. Cannaregio is also a popular district for locals and has a number of restaurants and bars away from the tourist crowds.
- Castello: Castello is the largest sestiere in geographical terms and comprises the eastern part of Venice. It is home to the Arsenale, once one of the largest shipyards in the world. Castello also has some quiet and charming squares such as Campo Santa Maria Formosa and Campo Bandiera e Moro. This sestiere is also home to the Giardini Park, the venue for the Biennale art exhibition.
- Dorsoduro: Dorsoduro is located south of the Grand Canal and is home to some of Venice’s most famous sights. Here you will find the Gallerie dell’Accademia with an impressive collection of Venetian works of art, the Peggy Guggenheim Museum with modern art and the church of Santa Maria della Salute. Dorsoduro is also known for its student district Campo Santa Margherita, where you will find bars, cafés and bookshops.
- San Polo: San Polo is the smallest sestiere, but one of the liveliest. It is known for the Rialto Market, a lively food market selling fresh produce and seafood. It is also home to the Rialto Bridge, one of the most famous bridges in Venice. San Polo is a charming district with many narrow streets, small bridges and picturesque squares.
- Santa Croce: Santa Croce is located to the west of the Grand Canal and is the least touristy sestiere in Venice. Here you will find the main train station, from where you can easily reach the city. Santa Croce has a relaxed atmosphere with many small canals and quiet squares. It is also home to Ca’Pesaro, one of the city’s most important museums.
Each of Venice’s sestiere has its own character and its own treasures to discover. By strolling through the alleyways and over the bridges, you can explore the diversity and richness of this fascinating city.