San Polo Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, food to try, and where to stay in San Polo. Learn about the local culture, customs, and transportation options to and from this Italian destination.


San Polo is a charming neighborhood located in the heart of Venice, Italy. This district offers a rich history alongside an exciting culture, picturesque scenery, and delicious cuisine. Whether you’re interested in learning more about Italian art, exploring the great outdoors, or trying out local Italian cuisine, there is something for everyone in San Polo. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top attractions, activities, food, and more in San Polo.

Introduction to San Polo

San Polo is located in the heart of Venice, Italy, and is one of the six main districts in the city. It is home to both locals and tourists who come to enjoy its historical landmarks, beautiful art, and good food. The area has several narrow streets and alleyways that are perfect for exploring on foot. These winding paths will take you through impressive squares, quiet corners, and picturesque bridges.

List of Places to Visit in San Polo

Visitors to San Polo are spoilt for choice when it comes to the places to visit in this neighborhood. Here are some must-sees attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Rialto Bridge: This iconic bridge has been one of San Polo’s main landmarks since the 16th century; it is made of marble and spans across the Grand Canal.
  • Scuola Grande di San Rocco: Another essential architectural example of the Renaissance period, the Scuola Grande di San Rocco is a must-visit for art lovers. It houses a collection of world-renowned masterpieces by the artist Tintoretto.
  • Palazzo Papadopoli Gardens: The Palazzo Papadopoli gardens are a quiet haven, perfect for exploring after a busy day in the city.

Natural Attractions of San Polo: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • San Polo Markets: The many markets of San Polo sit in the heart of the neighborhood and offer visitors a chance to experience the local market scene. The market is bustling with activity, as locals sell their wares, and tourists browse the stalls.
  • Papadopoli Gardens: These lush gardens are a perfect escape from the bustling city, with plenty of shady paths and beautiful views of the canal.

Hiking/Biking Routes of San Polo

San Polo is a small neighborhood that is made up of narrow streets and alleyways, which makes it ideal for exploring on foot. However, there are also several hiking and biking routes that visitors will enjoy:

  • Rialto Bridge – Accademia: This is a great route for those who want to explore the neighborhood by bike. It is approximately 2.5 km and passes through several prominent historical landmarks, such as the Rialto Bridge and Accademia.
  • San Polo – Dorsoduro: This route connects San Polo to Dorsoduro and offers visitors the chance to enjoy the beautiful views of the canal along the way.

Best Things to Do in San Polo: Activities and Tours

San Polo has something for everyone when it comes to the best things to do in the district, including:

  • Gondola Ride: A gondola ride in Venice is one of the best ways to experience the city and see its impressive waterways.
  • Grand Canal Walking Tour: This walking tour takes visitors through the heart of the city and gives them the chance to explore some of its most important landmarks, including the Rialto Bridge and the Piazza San Marco.
  • Murano and Burano Island Tour: This guided tour takes visitors to the beautiful islands of Murano and Burano, known for their unique glassworks and beautiful colors.

Week-Long Itinerary for San Polo

For visitors staying in San Polo for a week, here is an ideal itinerary:

Day Activity
Day 1 Grand Canal Walking Tour
Day 2 Rialto Bridge – Accademia Bike Tour
Day 3 Visit San Rocco Church and Scuola
Day 4 Gondola Ride
Day 5 Murano and Burano Island Tour
Day 6 Explore San Polo Market and shops
Day 7 Papadopoli Gardens and Palazzo Papadopoli

Food and Drink Scene of San Polo

San Polo has several restaurants, bars, and cafes that serve delicious Italian cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and drinks:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Spaghetti alla Carbonara: This traditional pasta dish is made with eggs, cheese, and pancetta.
  • Risi e Bisi: This is a classic Venetian dish made with rice and peas.
  • Cuttlefish in ink sauce: This seafood dish is a signature dish of Venice.

Local Beverages

  • Spritz: A classic Italian cocktail made with Aperol, Prosecco, and a dash of soda.
  • Bellini: A traditional Venetian drink made with peach puree and Prosecco.

Where to Stay in San Polo: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

San Polo has a range of options for visitors looking for a place to stay. From luxury hotels to budget hostels and guesthouses, the neighborhood has something for everyone. Here are some options:

  • Hotel Al Ponte Mocenigo: A charming boutique hotel that features elegant rooms and a convenient location near the Rialto Bridge.
  • Residenza degli Angeli: A stylish guesthouse that boasts spacious rooms, unique decor, and an on-site bar.
  • Ostello Santa Fosca: A budget-friendly hostel that offers shared dorms and private rooms.

What to Buy in San Polo: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

San Polo is known for its handmade masks, Murano glass, and leather goods. Here are some souvenirs and local products to bring home:

  • Venetian masks: These stunning masks are handcrafted, and some are quite elaborate. They are the perfect souvenir to remind you of your time in San Polo.
  • Murano Glass: This type of glasswork has been famous since the 13th century. It is still made by hand and comes in many colors and shapes.
  • Leather goods: San Polo is known for its quality leather goods such as bags, wallets, and shoes.

Local Culture and Customs of San Polo

San Polo is a charming neighborhood with a rich history and a unique culture. The area is known for its vibrant art scene, and visitors can explore the works of local artists in galleries and museums throughout the neighborhood. Additionally, the area is famous for its traditional Venetian masks, which are symbols of the city’s carnival and are sold in shops and street stalls throughout the district.

Best Time to Visit San Polo

The best time to visit San Polo is during the spring or fall, when the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller. The summer months can be quite hot and crowded, making it challenging to enjoy the city’s many attractions fully.

Do’s and Don’ts of San Polo

Do:

  • Explore the local markets: Visitors to San Polo should take the time to explore the many markets in the neighborhood, where they can discover local produce, crafts, and other goods.
  • Visit the churches: San Polo is home to several beautiful churches, many of which are free to enter and well worth a visit.

Don’t:

  • Don’t feed the pigeons: Feeding the pigeons is prohibited in Venice due to the damage they can cause to the city’s historic buildings and monuments.
  • Don’t swim in the canals: It is illegal and dangerous to swim in the canals of Venice.

Safety and Health in San Polo

San Polo is a safe neighborhood. However, visitors should take precautions such as avoiding empty alleyways at night and being aware of pickpockets. As for health, drinking tap water is safe in Venice, but it is recommended to drink bottled water instead.

Getting to San Polo: Transportation Options and Logistics

There are several options for getting to San Polo, including:

Airports Near San Polo

The nearest airports to San Polo are the Venice Marco Polo Airport and the Treviso Airport. Both airports offer various transportation options to get to San Polo, including buses, taxis, or water taxis.

Bus Stations Near San Polo

The closest bus station to San Polo is the Piazzale Roma Bus Station. From there, visitors can take the Vaporetto waterbus to San Polo.

Other Options

For those driving into Venice, there is parking available in the Tronchetto parking lot and the garage at Piazzale Roma.

How to Get Around San Polo

The best way to explore this district is on foot, as San Polo is a relatively small area that is easy to navigate. Visitors can also take the vaporetti, which are water taxis that operate in the area and offer a unique way to see the city.

Where to Go Next from San Polo: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

San Polo is located in the heart of Venice, making it easy to explore other parts of the city. Visitors can take a vaporetto to explore the islands of Murano and Burano or explore other Venetian neighborhoods, such as Dorsoduro or Cannaregio.

Conclusion

San Polo is a beautiful neighborhood with a rich history and culture that offers visitors a unique experience in Venice. From its stunning architecture to its delicious cuisine and vibrant art scene, visitors to San Polo are sure to fall in love with this charming European city.

Gondoliers and the Rialto Bridge. Gondoliers and the Rialto Bridge.