Neighborhoods and islands

The most livable sestiere and where real Venetians still live and shop. Quieter, with local markets, everyday services, and a genuine neighborhood feel away from the worst crowds. The obvious first choice for actually living in Venice proper.

Best for: those who want to live in the historic city with real daily life

The grand monumental heart, home to the basilica and the famous piazza. Spectacular and central, and the most expensive and most tourist-crowded part of the city. Stunning to visit, demanding to live in.

Best for: those wanting the grandest address and willing to pay and share it with tourists

The elegant, artsy quarter, home to the university, the Accademia and Guggenheim galleries, and a lively student and cultural scene. Beautiful, sunny, and characterful, popular with academics and foreigners. Pricey but full of life.

Best for: culture lovers, academics, and those wanting elegance with energy

The largest and quietest sestiere, stretching east of San Marco. Parts near the tourist core are busy, but the deeper eastern end is residential and calmer, with some of the better value in Venice proper.

Best for: those wanting a quieter, more local feel within the historic city

The old market heart of Venice, including the Rialto market and bridge. Compact, atmospheric, and central, with everyday food shopping and a working Venetian character alongside the tourist flow.

Best for: those wanting to be central and near the markets

The long beach island, and the one place in the Venice area where you can have a car. More space, actual beaches, gardens, and far easier logistics, with a real year-round community. The practical choice for many who want Venice life without the hardest parts.

Best for: families and anyone wanting space, a car, and easier daily life near Venice

The close island just across the water from Dorsoduro, residential and quieter, with some of the more affordable housing in the Venice area and a strong local feel. A short vaporetto hop from the center.

Best for: those wanting calm and value a few minutes from the action

The famous outer islands, Murano of the glassmaking and Burano of the painted fishermen's houses. Local, quieter communities further out, beautiful but more remote from the city's services and daily life.

Best for: those seeking a quiet, characterful island community and not minding the distance