The walkways of Venice have been the muses to Poets, Painters and Musicians for centuries. At the same time, the city’s layout both can frustrate as much as it inspires. Narrow streets that break into unsuspecting courtyards, random ‘sotoportegos’ falling over bridges, multiple dead ends tend to perplex travelers. The labyrinth that is Venice even seems to surpass the great powers of Google Maps! For this reason, we find it necessary to mention Venice Rooftops.
But the lesser known, more exclusive view can be found ‘in alto’ above the bustling heads and shop windows. The layers upon layers of tiled roofs create the floor and the sky – the Venetian ceiling. Despite the densely populated structure of the city, there is a limit on how high the houses are permitted to grow. Political reasons for this aside, this height characteristic results in a skyline being broken only by silhouettes of the timeless towers and domes.
I search out these heights for different reasons and in different moods. Therefore, I have thought of three of my favorite ‘birds eye views’ of Venice. I hope you find them and can enjoy them, too.
A Venice Rooftop to Appreciate and Learn :
The terrace of Foundation of the Germans (“Fondaco dei Tedeschi”) is one to put on your radar. Recently refurbished and open to the public, this old post office just next to the Rialto bridge offers one of the best views from within the city’s center. Not only can you see down into the narrow calles, but also beyond to the Lagoon Island’s, and even the Dolomites on a clear day. This is a fairly unique view in the fact that it allows you also to appreciate (probably for the first time) the entire bend of the Grand Canal. What I enjoy most is the carefully detailed guides available that name what it is you are looking at. You may be surprised with the orientation.
I would advise everyone to go here, because while it reaffirms the suspicion that ‘Venice is not actually that big’, it’s also impossible to not marvel at Venetian’s exceptional city development.
A Venice Rooftop for Perspective (and Sunset) :
San Marks bell tower is often praised as the most magnificent view of Venice, partly because of its positioning and prestige. Despite this, we all know that the best view of the coast is from sea, which is also true for Venice. In a previous post, I talked about the Island of San Giorgio Maggiore for its many attributes, but only briefly touched on the bell tower . It is a made in a similar style to that of San Mark’s and stands 63 meters high. There is a small admission charge, but it is worth it – especially for sun set.
A Venice Rooftop to Hide :
Just like when walking a mountain path, you often encounter like-minded with similar interests along the way. I’ve had the same happy experience each time I’ve searched for solitude on the top floor of Palazzo Fortuny . While I’m sure I am not alone in enjoying this space because of the high quality of the exhibition, I know that it is not exactly the first place someone would think to find you. you can genuinely feel blissfully lost in a moment’s time there. On days when you’re feeling particularly thoughtful, it is worth bringing a book, scaling the three stories, and naturally taking time to observe all the art along the way. Once you make your way to the top floor, there are chairs to sit on and low wooden beams that comfort and shelter.
Finally… A Venice Rooftop for Dining :
Many restaurants in Venice boast an exceptional location, helped largely by the mysterious narrow streets, miniature courtyards, and charming bridge-side views. To continue with the theme of heights, though, we would recommend making the effort to travel to the exquisitely designed Danieli Hotel and rise to their top floor where you’ll find an unparalleled outdoor view of the Punta della Dogana, where the Giudecca Canal and Grand Canal meet.
Enjoy the view!
