Your Guide to the Best Museums in Venice – Tickets, Tips & Must-Sees

Venice is a city where history, art, and beauty meet at every corner. Its museums are world-class, offering everything from Renaissance masterpieces to modern art and centuries-old crafts. Here’s your quick guide to the best museums in Venice — with highlights, visiting tips, and booking links so you can make the most of your trip.

1. Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale) – Power & Splendor

One of Venice’s most iconic landmarks, the Doge’s Palace combines Gothic architecture, political history, and world-class art.
Highlights: Tintoretto’s Paradise, the Bridge of Sighs, historic prison cells.
Local Tip: Book the “Secret Itineraries” tour for access to hidden rooms and chambers.
🎟 Book Skip-the-Line Tickets on GetYourGuide

2. St. Mark’s Basilica Museum & Terrace

Inside Venice’s most famous church, the museum and terrace offer close-up views of golden mosaics and a panoramic look over St. Mark’s Square.
Highlights: Original bronze horses, glittering domes, city skyline views.
Local Tip: Visit early morning for fewer crowds.
🎟 Reserve Entry & Terrace Access on GetYourGuide

3. Peggy Guggenheim Collection – Modern Art Gem

A unique modern art museum on the Grand Canal, once the home of art collector Peggy Guggenheim.
Highlights: Works by Picasso, Dalí, Pollock, Kandinsky.
Local Tip: Relax in the sculpture garden for a quieter moment.
🎟 Get Tickets on Tiqets

4. Gallerie dell’Accademia – Venetian Painting Masterpieces

The largest collection of Venetian art, from the 14th to the 18th century.
Highlights: Bellini, Titian, Veronese, and Canaletto’s cityscapes.
Local Tip: The late afternoon light in the galleries is magical.

5. Correr Museum – Venice’s History in One Place

Located in St. Mark’s Square, this museum traces Venice’s political, artistic, and cultural evolution.
Highlights: Canova sculptures, historical maps, royal apartments.
Local Tip: Entry is often included with Doge’s Palace tickets.

6. Ca’ Rezzonico – Life in 18th-Century Venice

A grand canal palace dedicated to the Venetian Baroque period.
Highlights: Frescoed ballrooms, Rococo furniture, works by Tiepolo.
Local Tip: The ballroom ceiling is a must-see — look up!
🎟 Buy Tickets on Tiqets.com

7. Murano Glass Museum (Museo del Vetro)

Located on Murano Island, this museum showcases glassmaking from the Middle Ages to today.
Highlights: Ancient glass artifacts, contemporary glass art.
Local Tip: Combine with a live glassblowing demo nearby.
🎟 Book Murano Museum Entry on GetYourGuide

8. Burano Lace Museum (Museo del Merletto)

A small museum dedicated to the island’s lace-making tradition.
Highlights: Antique lace and artisan demonstrations.
Local Tip: Visit during a walk through Burano’s colorful streets.
🎟 Get Lace Museum Tickets 

Why Visit Venice’s Museums?

Save time with skip-the-line tickets
Learn Venice’s history through art and artifacts
Enjoy indoor activities on rainy or hot days
Explore hidden gems away from the busiest tourist spots

Quick FAQ

Which Venice museum should I visit first?
Doge’s Palace is a must for first-timers, followed by the Gallerie dell’Accademia or Peggy Guggenheim Collection.

Are Venice museum tickets included in passes?
Yes, many are included in the Venice Pass or St. Mark’s Square Museum Pass.

Are there discounts for children or students?
Most museums offer reduced prices with valid ID.

Final Tip from a Local

Venice’s museums aren’t just rainy-day options — they’re keys to understanding the city’s soul. Book in advance, plan your route, and mix famous highlights with smaller gems for the perfect cultural itinerary