Santi Apostoli, Venice - a building with statues on the outside
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Santi Apostoli Venice

4.6
·141 reviews·Venezia, Italy

A charming Venetian square offering a taste of local life, centrally located yet away from the main tourist throngs.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more authentic feel

CrowdLow
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Santi Apostoli, Venice - a building with statues on the outside

Santi Apostoli Venice

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more authentic feel

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A charming Venetian square offering a taste of local life, centrally located yet away from the main tourist throngs.

4.6
(141 reviews)

"A true hidden gem with free entrance, but the experience is priceless."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Embrace the 'Traghetto'

Ride a public gondola for just €2 to cross the Grand Canal like a local!

🤫 Seek Hidden Courtyards

Explore beyond the main paths for authentic Venetian charm and fewer crowds.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Campo Santi Apostoli

Campo Santi Apostoli

Santi Apostoli Square

A charming, less crowded square offering a glimpse into local Venetian life away from the main tourist hubs.

Scala Contarini del Bovolo

Scala Contarini del Bovolo

Near Rialto Bridge

Discover a hidden spiral staircase with breathtaking panoramic views of Venice. A true architectural gem.

Traghetto Gondola Crossing

Traghetto Gondola Crossing

Various Grand Canal crossings

Experience a gondola ride for just a couple of euros, crossing the Grand Canal like a local.

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Local Vibe

While Santi Apostoli is central, venturing into its quieter courtyards reveals authentic Venice. Avoid the main tourist thoroughfares for a more genuine experience. Consider staying in this area for a blend of accessibility and local charm.

Gondola on a Budget

Skip the pricey private gondola tours! For a fraction of the cost, use the 'traghetto' public gondola service to cross the Grand Canal. It's a quick, authentic way to experience this iconic Venetian transport.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more authentic feel
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings
Why
Magical atmosphere, local buzz
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

A true hidden gem with free entrance, but the experience is priceless 🤍 . . . #venezia #veniceitaly #veneziaitaly #hiddengems #traveltips #localguide #fyp #travelitaly
@ig_adelle
49.3K likes • 627.8K views

🎯 Embrace the 'Traghetto'

Ride a public gondola for just €2 to cross the Grand Canal like a local! TikTok

🤫 Seek Hidden Courtyards

Explore beyond the main paths for authentic Venetian charm and fewer crowds. TikTok

didn’t know venice had panoramic rooftops.. 📍 Scala Contarini del Bovolo is hidden in a quiet courtyard just minutes from Rialto, and it’s one of Venice’s best-kept secrets. 🏛️ This spiral staircase ...
@tan_trionfi
26.7K likes • 376.9K views
EL TRUCO PARA COGER GÓNDOLAS EN VENECIA POR TAN SOLO 2€! 🇮🇹💶 Mientras la mayoría de turistas paga entre 90 y 110€ 👀 por un paseo en góndola, hay una forma súper barata de cruzar los canales sin dejart...
@melissacomunica1
26.4K likes • 406.8K views

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

Venice is best explored on foot, so pack comfy shoes for cobblestone streets and bridges. TikTok

🚫 Avoid St. Mark's Square Dining

Restaurants here are tourist traps; find better food and prices elsewhere. TikTok

🇮🇹 Free Venice travel guide including tips on how to get there, how to take the water taxi, best things to do, and where to stay - Awww.minywander.com In one day you can experience a few highlights o...
@minywander
25.2K likes • 370.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Embrace the 'Traghetto'

Ride a public gondola for just €2 to cross the Grand Canal like a local! TikTok

🤫 Seek Hidden Courtyards

Explore beyond the main paths for authentic Venetian charm and fewer crowds. TikTok

👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes

Venice is best explored on foot, so pack comfy shoes for cobblestone streets and bridges. TikTok

🚫 Avoid St. Mark's Square Dining

Restaurants here are tourist traps; find better food and prices elsewhere. TikTok

🗺️ Get a Local Map

Navigating Venice's maze-like streets is easier with a good map or offline navigation. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(141 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Santi Apostoli is praised for its central yet relatively peaceful location, offering a more authentic Venetian experience. Visitors appreciate its proximity to major attractions while providing a respite from the busiest tourist crowds. The area is seen as a good base for exploring the city's charm and accessing local life.

"Most beautiful Church in Cannaregio!
We really enjoyed coming here and seeing the beauty of this and of this little piazza. We somehow past in front of this place everyday as we needed to get to Venice Central from our rental in Cannaregio.
We really enjoyed it! It was beautiful."

Paul Vivas

"The church is believed to have existed as early as the 9th century, originally founded at the instruction of Saint Magnus, Bishop of Oderzo, who is said to have had a vision of the apostles in the 7th century. The church underwent major reconstruction in 1021. In the 1490s, a funerary chapel for the Cornaro family was added, designed by Mauro Codussi. The bell tower, standing approximately 47 meters tall, was begun in 1672 and completed in the 18th century, based on a design by Andrea Tirali."

Seokjin Ham

"Beautiful church!
This church is very interesting and amazing! You can find there not too easy because of the narrow streets of Venice. It looks like an old church, but it is well maintained. You can visit that church if you like art, history and architecture."

Eudoxio Junior

What People Like

Central yet quiet location
Authentic local feel
Good base for exploring

What People Dislike

Can still be busy at peak times

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Santi Apostoli is centrally located and easily accessible by Vaporetto (water bus) to the 'Rialto' or 'Ca' D'Oro' stops. From there, it's a short walk. Many visitors arrive via water taxi from the airport or train station, which offers a scenic introduction to the city. TikTok

Yes, the area around Santi Apostoli is quite walkable, though Venice's narrow streets can be a bit of a maze. Comfortable shoes are a must! TikTok

Absolutely! The Vaporetto system is Venice's public bus service and the best way to get around the main canals and to different sestieri (districts). TikTok

Many travelers arrive by train at Venezia Santa Lucia station or by flying into Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE). From the airport, you can take a bus or a water taxi to the city center. TikTok

Yes, staying near Campo Santi Apostoli offers a good balance of being central yet slightly removed from the busiest tourist crowds, providing a more local feel. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Campo Santi Apostoli is a public square and is free to enter and explore. Many of Venice's charming squares and canals are accessible without tickets. TikTok

Some churches have a small entrance fee, while others are free. It's always best to check the specific church's policy before visiting. The Basilica di Santi Apostoli itself is generally free to enter. TikTok

A traghetto ride, the public gondola service, typically costs around €2, offering an affordable way to experience gondola travel. TikTok

No, there is a small entrance fee to climb Scala Contarini del Bovolo to access the panoramic views. Booking tickets online in advance is recommended. TikTok

Opening hours vary greatly for churches and attractions. It's advisable to check the specific hours online or on-site before your visit, especially for smaller churches or lesser-known sites. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Santi Apostoli is a great base for exploring. You can visit the Basilica di Santi Apostoli, wander through the charming Campo, and it's a short walk to the Rialto Bridge and other major attractions. Reddit

The Campo itself offers lovely shots, especially in the morning light. Look for reflections in the canals and narrow alleyways for classic Venetian photography. TikTok

Compared to St. Mark's Square or Rialto Bridge, Santi Apostoli is generally less crowded, offering a more relaxed atmosphere. Reddit

Yes, getting lost is part of the Venice experience! Embrace it, but having a map or offline navigation on your phone is helpful. TikTok

It's a stunning external spiral staircase offering panoramic views of Venice. It's a hidden gem that provides a unique perspective of the city. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While Santi Apostoli itself has local eateries, venturing slightly further towards Rialto or exploring Cannaregio can offer more diverse and authentic dining options. Avoid restaurants directly on St. Mark's Square. TikTok

Try cicchetti (Venetian tapas), Sarde in Saor (sweet and sour sardines), Risi e Bisi (rice and peas), and fresh seafood. TikTok

Yes, look for 'bacari' (wine bars) for cicchetti and local wines, or grab pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice). The traghetto is also a budget-friendly way to experience a gondola. TikTok+1

Dining in prime tourist areas can be expensive. Exploring side streets and local neighborhoods like Cannaregio can lead to more affordable and authentic meals. TikTok

You can find local cafes offering espresso and cappuccinos. For a truly iconic experience, consider Caffè Florian, though it's a splurge. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Early morning or late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with fewer crowds and a softer glow on the buildings and canals. TikTok

Rialto Bridge, St. Mark's Square, the Bridge of Sighs, and the colorful houses of Burano are famous. Don't forget the hidden canals and bridges for unique shots. TikTok+1

A smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for most visitors. If you're serious about photography, a wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the narrow streets and grand canals. TikTok

Yes, several companies offer guided photography tours that take you to the best spots and offer tips on capturing the city's beauty. TikTok

If you take a private tour, ask your gondolier to pose. For traghetto rides, focus on the movement and the canal views. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Venice can be magical for families, but requires some planning. The area around Santi Apostoli is a good choice for accommodation as it's central yet offers a slightly calmer atmosphere than the busiest tourist hubs. Reddit Consider using the 'traghetto' for a fun and affordable gondola experience that kids will love. TikTok

Pack plenty of snacks and water, as prices can be high in tourist areas. Embrace the adventure of getting lost, but keep a map handy. Look for kid-friendly cicchetti or pizza al taglio for meals. Many of Venice's squares are car-free and offer space for children to move around. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

Venice can be surprisingly affordable if you know where to look. Utilize the 'traghetto' for a €2 gondola ride instead of a €90+ private tour. TikTok For meals, focus on 'bacari' for cicchetti and local wine, or grab pizza by the slice. TikTok+1

Many of the most beautiful aspects of Venice – its canals, bridges, and squares – are free to enjoy. Simply wandering through the less crowded sestieri like Cannaregio, where Santi Apostoli is located, offers an authentic experience without spending a euro. TikTok

❤️ Couples

For a romantic Venetian escape, consider staying in the Santi Apostoli area for a blend of convenience and local charm. Reddit Enjoy a sunset stroll along the canals, perhaps followed by a shared cicchetti experience at a local bacaro. TikTok

While a private gondola ride is a classic romantic gesture, the 'traghetto' offers a more intimate and budget-friendly way to experience the canals together. TikTok Seek out hidden courtyards and quiet campi for moments of shared tranquility away from the crowds. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating Venice: Beyond the Tourist Trail

Venice's charm lies in its labyrinthine streets and hidden campi (squares). While iconic landmarks like the Rialto Bridge are must-sees, don't be afraid to wander off the beaten path. The area around Santi Apostoli offers a more tranquil experience, allowing you to soak in the local atmosphere. Many visitors find that getting a little lost is part of the adventure, leading to unexpected discoveries of quiet canals and authentic bacari (wine bars). TikTok+1

For efficient travel within the city, the Vaporetto (water bus) system is your best friend. Purchase a day pass if you plan on using it frequently. For a truly Venetian experience without the hefty price tag of a private gondola, utilize the 'traghetto' service. These public gondolas operate at specific points across the Grand Canal, offering a quick and affordable crossing. TikTok+1

When planning your route, remember that Venice is a pedestrian city. Comfortable walking shoes are non-negotiable. Embrace the slow pace, enjoy the views, and let the city reveal its secrets to you one bridge and canal at a time. TikTok

Experiencing Venice on a Budget

Visiting Venice doesn't have to break the bank. While some experiences are undeniably pricey, savvy travelers can enjoy the city's magic affordably. One of the best budget tips is to utilize the 'traghetto' service for a gondola experience at a fraction of the cost of a private tour. TikTok

When it comes to dining, steer clear of restaurants in St. Mark's Square, which are notorious tourist traps with inflated prices and mediocre food. Instead, seek out 'bacari' for 'cicchetti' (Venetian tapas) and local wine, or grab a slice of 'pizza al taglio' (pizza by the slice). These options offer delicious and authentic flavors at much lower prices. TikTok+1

Many of Venice's most beautiful sights, like its charming squares and canals, are free to explore. Simply wandering through the sestieri (districts) like Cannaregio, where Santi Apostoli is located, can be a rewarding experience in itself. Look for free entry churches or enjoy the ambiance of the campos. TikTok

Capturing Venice's Magic: Photography Tips

Venice is a photographer's dream, with its unique architecture, shimmering canals, and atmospheric light. For the best shots around Santi Apostoli and beyond, aim for the 'golden hours' – early morning and late afternoon. The soft light enhances the colors and reduces harsh shadows, while fewer crowds make for more serene compositions. TikTok

Don't just focus on the famous landmarks. Explore the smaller canals, narrow alleyways, and hidden campi. The reflections in the water, the peeling paint on ancient buildings, and the laundry hanging from windows all contribute to Venice's distinctive character. A wide-angle lens can be helpful for capturing the grandeur of the canals and bridges, but even a smartphone can capture stunning images. TikTok

Consider visiting the Scala Contarini del Bovolo for a unique perspective. This spiral staircase offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the city's rooftops, providing a fantastic opportunity for unique shots. Remember to be respectful of residents and avoid blocking pathways when taking photos. TikTok

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