The Six Sestieri of Venice
Venice is divided into six historic neighborhoods called sestieri (from "sesto" meaning sixth). Unlike most cities' numbered districts, these neighborhoods have existed for over 800 years and each has developed its own distinct personality. Understanding the sestieri will help you navigate Venice and discover its hidden treasures.
San Marco
Sestiere di San Marco
The tourist heart of Venice and home to its most famous landmarks. This is where you'll find St. Mark's Square, the Basilica, Doge's Palace, and the Bridge of Sighs. The area is filled with luxury boutiques, historic cafes like Caffè Florian, and world-class hotels. While crowded during the day, it's magical at dawn and after the tour groups leave.
Best for: First-time visitors, luxury shopping, iconic sights
Must-see: St. Mark's Square, Doge's Palace, Teatro La Fenice
Castello
Sestiere di Castello
The largest of Venice's six districts, stretching from St. Mark's to the eastern tip of the island. While the western end is touristy, the eastern part feels like a real neighborhood with local shops and fewer visitors. Home to the historic Arsenal shipyard and the Biennale gardens.
Best for: Authentic Venice experience, parks and green spaces
Must-see: Arsenal, Via Garibaldi, SS. Giovanni e Paolo
Cannaregio
Sestiere di Cannaregio
The northern district where most Venetians actually live. It's home to the world's first ghetto (the Jewish Ghetto) and has a more authentic, less touristy feel. The Strada Nova is the main shopping street. At night, the fondamenta (canal banks) come alive with bars and restaurants.
Best for: Local atmosphere, budget dining, Jewish history
Must-see: Jewish Ghetto, Ca' d'Oro, Madonna dell'Orto
Dorsoduro
Sestiere di Dorsoduro
The artsy, bohemian neighborhood south of the Grand Canal. Home to Venice's best museums (Accademia, Guggenheim), the beautiful Zattere promenade, and the lively Campo Santa Margherita where students and locals gather. The name means "hard back," referring to its slightly higher elevation.
Best for: Art lovers, nightlife, scenic walks along the Zattere
Must-see: Accademia, Peggy Guggenheim, Santa Maria della Salute
San Polo
Sestiere di San Polo
The smallest sestiere but one of the most vibrant. It's home to the famous Rialto Bridge and the historic Rialto Market, where locals have shopped for fresh produce and seafood for over 1,000 years. The area around the market is full of excellent bacari (wine bars) and restaurants.
Best for: Food lovers, authentic bacari, the Rialto experience
Must-see: Rialto Bridge, Rialto Market, Basilica dei Frari
Santa Croce
Sestiere di Santa Croce
The western gateway to Venice, containing Piazzale Roma (the bus/car terminus) and part of the train station area. Once you leave the busy transport hubs, you'll find quiet streets and authentic neighborhood squares like Campo San Giacomo dell'Orio. Often overlooked by tourists.
Best for: Off-the-beaten-path exploration, local life
Must-see: San Giacomo dell'Orio church, Natural History Museum
Understanding Venice Addresses
Venice addresses can be confusing! They consist of the sestiere name and a number (e.g., "San Marco 1234"). Numbers run sequentially within each district, not within streets. This means two buildings next to each other might have very different numbers. Always use landmarks and our map to navigate!
Choosing Where to Stay
Each neighborhood offers a different experience for visitors:
- San Marco: Most convenient but most expensive and crowded
- Dorsoduro: Best balance of location, atmosphere, and value
- Cannaregio: Most authentic, good value, near train station
- Castello: Quieter, local feel, easy access to San Marco
- San Polo: Central, vibrant, great for food lovers
- Santa Croce: Convenient to transport, fewer tourists
Neighborhood Navigation Tips
• Yellow signs point to major destinations: "Per San Marco," "Per Rialto"
• The Grand Canal is your best orientation landmark
• Odd-numbered addresses are usually on one side of a canal
• "Calle" = street, "Campo" = square, "Fondamenta" = canal bank