The Grand Canal Guide
The Grand Canal (Canal Grande) is Venice's main waterway, winding 3.8 km through the heart of the city in a reverse S-shape. Lined with over 170 buildings dating from the 13th to 18th centuries, it's one of the world's most beautiful urban waterways.
Grand Canal Facts
Length: 3.8 km (2.4 miles)
Width: 30-90 meters
Depth: Average 5 meters
Bridges: 4 (Rialto, Accademia, Scalzi, Constitution)
The Four Bridges
- Rialto Bridge (1591): The oldest and most famous, with shops on top
- Accademia Bridge (1854): Wooden bridge near the Accademia gallery
- Scalzi Bridge (1934): Stone bridge near the train station
- Constitution Bridge (2008): Modern glass bridge by Calatrava
Famous Palaces
- Ca' d'Oro: Gothic masterpiece, now a museum
- Ca' Rezzonico: Baroque palace, 18th-century Venice museum
- Palazzo Grassi: Contemporary art exhibitions
- Ca' Foscari: Gothic palace, now part of the university
Best Ways to See the Grand Canal
• Vaporetto Line 1: All stops, best for sightseeing (€9.50)
• Gondola: Romantic but expensive (€80+)
• Traghetto: Quick crossing for €2
• Walking: Fondamenta banks offer great views