Cannaregio is the northernmost and second-largest sestiere (district) of Venice. Spanning a large area from the train station to the lagoon, it offers a fascinating, authentic glimpse into local Venetian life, away from the intense crowds of San Marco. It’s a place where history, tradition, and everyday life flow seamlessly along quieter canals and bustling main walkways like the Strada Nuova. If you’re looking to explore the genuine heart of the city, Cannaregio is the perfect starting point.

What to Do in Cannaregio

Cannaregio invites you to slow down and embrace the slow travel mindset. One of the best things to do in Cannaregio is simply to wander. The district is home to numerous hidden fondamenta (canalside paths) and charming little squares, or campi.

Walk the Strada Nuova: This is the main artery of the district, stretching from the train station towards the Rialto. It’s lively, packed with shops, and gives you a sense of the modern pace of life here.
Explore the Jewish Ghetto: Cannaregio houses the oldest Jewish Ghetto in the world, established in 1516. Walking through this historic and deeply atmospheric area is a must. The narrow streets and tall, ancient buildings tell a profound story.
Go on a Cicchetti Crawl: Embracing the Venetian tradition of cicchetti (small snacks, similar to tapas) and a glass of local wine (ombra) is a quintessential what to do in Cannaregio experience. The fondamenta near the Campo dei Mori and along the Rio della Misericordia are particularly famous for their authentic bacari (traditional bars).
Take a Vaporetto Ride: The Canal Grande borders Cannaregio, and taking a vaporetto (water bus) ride from the Ferrovia stop offers a spectacular view of the grand palazzi lining the canal.

What to See in Cannaregio Venice

The district is a treasure trove of historical and architectural marvels. When deciding what to see in Cannaregio, prioritize these key landmarks:

The Ponte delle Guglie: This beautiful stone bridge, known for its four ornate obelisks (or ‘guglie’), is one of the main crossings over the Cannaregio Canal and a central feature of the district.
The Chiesa della Madonna dell’Orto: A stunning example of Venetian Gothic architecture, this church is less crowded than others but holds significant works by the Venetian master Tintoretto, who is also buried here. The facade and the bell tower are spectacular.
The Palazzo Ca’ d’Oro: Located right on the Grand Canal, this magnificent palace is a jewel of Venetian Gothic architecture, featuring an intricate, lace-like marble facade. It now houses the Galleria Giorgio Franchetti, a museum with an important collection of paintings and sculptures.
The Campo dei Mori: A picturesque campo famous for its curious, ancient statues embedded in the walls, depicting Moorish merchants who once lived there. This area is steeped in intriguing local legend.

What to Eat in Cannaregio

Cannaregio’s food scene is vibrant and authentic, offering some of the best opportunities for what to eat in Cannaregio without falling into tourist traps.

Savor Cicchetti: As mentioned, this is the essential Venetian food experience. Look for classics like baccalà mantecato (creamed cod), polpette (meatballs), and small sandwiches. Places like Il Paradiso Perduto and the historic bars near the Ghetto are favorites.
Enjoy a Traditional Venetian Meal: Seek out trattorias that specialize in local seafood. Ristorante algiubagiò near the Fondamenta Nove is known for its inventive Venetian cuisine, while smaller places along the Rio della Misericordia offer excellent, genuine regional dishes.
Try Fegato alla Veneziana: If you are an adventurous eater, this classic Venetian dish of calf’s liver (fegato) cooked with onions is a must-try staple of the region.
Indulge in Pastries: Stop by a local pasticceria (pastry shop) for an Italian coffee and a traditional Venetian sweet, such as fritole (fried dough balls) or zaletti (cornmeal cookies), especially around carnival time.

Cannaregio offers an enriching, intimate experience of Venice. It’s where you can truly feel the pulse of the city, transitioning from quiet, historical lanes to lively, culinary hubs. Exploring this district is the key to unlocking the authentic charm of La Serenissima.