10 Wheelchair Accessible Things to Do in Venice, Italy
Venice is a beautiful city situated on the water in Northern Italy. For many people it’s a romantic and idyllic getaway. For wheelchair users, however, it can seem a bit intimidating as it’s rumored to have poor accessibility. While accessibility could always improve, it’s definitely possible to enjoy a wonderful and accessible trip here. Here’s my list of 10 wheelchair accessible things to do in Venice, Italy to help you plan your trip.
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10 Wheelchair Accessible Things to Do in Venice, Italy
1. St Mark’s Basilica
Located in St. Mark’s Square, the basilica is hard to miss. You’ll notice that the church’s design has some Moorish influence. In fact, St. Mark’s Basilica was modeled after the Church of the Holy Apostles in what is present day Istanbul, Turkey, which was destroyed in 1453.
Inside the basilica, the walls are covered in mosaics depicting stories from the Bible and the life of Jesus, the Virgin Mary and Saint Mark. At certain times of the day, when the sun shines just right, these golden tiles are illuminated creating a spectacular site. Of course, they are quite incredible even without this effect.
Wheelchair users should enter the doorway on the left side of the church (not the main entrance) through Porta dei Fiori, which has a ramp. Once inside, it is easy to navigate. To visit the museum on the second floor, there is a lift and stairlift available.
This church is absolutely beautiful and there are tons of intricate details to admire and look at. It’ definitely worth a visit!
2. St. Mark’s Campanile
The campanile or bell tower is in St. Mark’s Square close to the basilica. Once used as a lighthouse, this tower is now a popular place for tourists to ascend and get a fantastic view of Venice. The more adventurous and abled-bodied can choose to climb the stairs to the top, or there is the option of taking an elevator for people with mobility issues and those who do not want to take the steps.
I, of course, chose to take the elevator. Since Venice is very flat, you can see almost all of the city in its entirety from the summit. It makes for great photo opportunities and it is why I recommend it as one of my wheelchair accessible things to do in Venice.
Lines can be long to enter the tower, so be prepared. If you’re short of time, you can choose to spend a little more and buy tickets in advance which will allow you to skip the line.
3. Murano
Known for its hand-blown Venetian glass, this island is where it is all made. In fact, the glass factories were moved here in 1291 to reduce the fire risk that they created in the city of Venice. These creative innovators have been propelling the industry forward with their techniques and skills ever since and is why Murano glass has always been so popular.
While on the island, you can watch these masters at work, and maybe even pick up a souvenir if you’re inclined. Glass factories are accessible by using a temporary ramp that will allow you to enter. If you are feeling inspired after witnessing their demonstration, consider taking a workshop where you can learn to work with mosaics or create a unique piece using Murano glass beads.
The best way to get the most out of your visit here is by taking an accessible tour from Venice. Usually, these tours last about ½ day but can vary in length.
This one is a great and affordable option.
4. Burano
This island just outside of Venice is known for its lace and colorful houses. Many people love to just wonder the streets and take in all of the colors… a photographer’s paradise. The streets are flat and easy to get around on.
You can also visit a lace making demonstration or even the lace museum. If lace isn’t your thing, then Burano is a great place to get a bite to eat. It’s also a fishing village, so fresh seafood is plentiful.
Looking for something to satisfy your sweet tooth? Then try the local specialty, Bussolà (AKA Buranelli). This cookie dense butter cookies will do the trick.
If you aren’t interested in doing a glass workshop, then you can easily combine Murano and Burano into a day trip from Venice.
There are a couple of accessible tours to choose from, but I recommend this one.
5. Doge’s Palace
This grand palace was home to the Doge or ruler of Venice. The palace held his apartments, a courtroom and a jail and was considered the seat of government. It is also ornately decorated with tons of art, many of which are framed in gold details and sculptures.
Both art and history lovers will enjoy the tour of this incredible place. I highly recommend getting the audio guide (which is great) to get the most out of your visit here.
Most of the palace is wheelchair accessible. There is a small step at the main entrance, and staff will either put a temporary ramp out to allow you to enter or escort you to a separate accessible entrance. An elevator allows people with mobility problems to reach two of the upper floors of the palace. Accessible bathrooms are also available.
The ticket counter is not accessible, however, so it’s advised to have someone with you that can purchase tickets and the audio guide.
6. Bridge of Sighs
The Bridge of Sighs connects Doge’s Palace with the prison. Legend has it that this famous bridge got its name as it was from here prisoners would get their last view of the city before heading to their cells and they would often sigh as they crossed it.
This prison was known for its horrible conditions (extremely hot in the summer and ice cold in the winter) and is where Casanova was held for a brief time before he escaped. Although the prison itself is not accessible due to steps, the bridge can be viewed from outside of the palace by using a partially accessible bridge.
7. Café Florian
If you want to trace some of the footsteps of the legendary Casanova, then make sure to stop at Café Florian for a drink or bite to eat. Located across from St. Mark’s Basilica in the square, this historic café is not only where Casanova would pick up and seduce women, but also where all the scholars and great minds of the time would meet to discuss important topics.
You can choose to eat outside (which is more expensive) where there is usually a live orchestra playing or eat inside where much of the interior remains the same as it did back in the day. Although this dining experience will be a splurge either way (most restaurants in the square are pricey) it is also quite the treat.
You are served on real china dishes and silver trays, making you feel special and important. The food is also delicious! When I visited with my friend, she enjoyed some tea and I ordered a hot chocolate.
The chocolate was thick and luxurious and served with warm milk or cream so that I could thin it down enough to drink. We loved it so much that we went back for a second time! For a less expensive meal, go a few streets back from the square as the further you get from St. Mark’s Square, the more reasonable the prices will be.
8. Venice Academy Gallery Museum of Art
This museum was built to house all the Venetian artwork and paintings that were scattered around the city. There are thirty-four rooms in total that house paintings from the 14th to 18th centuries. If you are a painter or just appreciate great art, then this is a beautiful place to visit.
There is a step-free entrance on the right side of the museum and lifts are available within the museum to allow for easy access. It is recommended that you speak to staff about the best accessible route to tour the museum.
9. Get Lost in the Alleyways
One of many people’s favorite past times when visiting Venice is to just wander the city and get lost (which is easy to do). By doing this, you can admire ancient architecture and even stumble upon some great shops and restaurants. The city has beauty in almost every corner and this is a great way to experience Venice.
You may be thinking that this will be quite a challenge in a wheelchair, as Venice is known for its many bridges (which aren’t all accessible). That’s why I recommend getting an accessible map of the city. It will help you recognize accessible routes and areas as well as keep you from getting too lost.
You can obtain an accessible map at the tourist offices located in the train stations or at the airport. I’ve also included a link so you can choose to print it off at home should you wish. mappa _Venezia Accessibile 2017 (comune.venezia.it)
10. Enjoy a classical music concert
If you really want to take a step back in time and enjoy music, why not enjoy a classical music concert while you’re in the city. This concert will feature the works of famous Italian composers such as Vivaldi. It’s set in a church (which tends to always have great acoustics) so you will be surrounded by historic architecture while listening to these lovely tunes.
I always think that one of the best ways to experience a culture is through their music. Even if the music isn’t current, it gives you a sense of history and you may even be surprised how much the music of the past has influenced the music of today.
Check out tickets here.
When Should I Visit Venice?
Venice is best enjoyed during the spring, summer, and fall. However, some people choose to visit in the winter to avoid the crowds and to experience carnival. Carnival is a holiday where guests dress up and wear masks to balls and other events. This holiday traditionally takes place between February and March.
Wheelchair Accessible Things to Do in Venice, Italy Conclusions
As you can see, there are some wonderful choices on wheelchair accessible things to do in Venice, Italy. So, whether you plan to spend a day or a couple of days in this beautiful city, you will have some great options to spend your time here. I thoroughly enjoyed my time here and I know you will too.
