Dorsoduro is located in the South West of the city on the opposite side of the Grand Canal from San Marco, with a long stretch of promenade known as the Fondamenta delle Zattere facing onto the Giudecca island, perfect for a sunny evening stroll. This sestiere boasts numerous art galleries and museums, impressive churches, and excellent places for aperitivo all tied together by a tangle of idyllic canals.

Dorsoduro is home to the Punta della Dogana, a dramatic point at the eastern end of the sestiere that resembles the bow of a ship extending into the basin in front of San Marco. Once the customs office of Venice, this was an important location for visitors to the city in the past, meaning that the exotic riches imported from far-flung places across the globe inevitably passed through the humble canals of Dorsoduro. Today it accommodates riches of a different kind, hosting art exhibitions by some of the world’s top artists.

Here you can also find the Accademia Gallery which houses many of Venice’s most famous pre-19th Century paintings, and at the opposite end of the artistic spectrum, the Peggy Guggenheim Collection which contains a range of impressive 20th Century works. The area between these two galleries is peppered with many smaller private galleries where the budding art collector might want to spend some serious time (and money).

At the heart of Dorsoduro lies Campo Santa Margherita, a long, lively square lined with bars and restaurants that can probably lay claim to a significant proportion of the city’s nightlife, no doubt in part due to the two universities that are based in this sestiere. However, that isn’t to say all the bars in this area cater to impoverished students, here you will also find some excellent wine bars and higher-end bacari that can compete with the city’s finest.

A stay in this sestiere guarantees the idyllic cityscapes and access to the famous sights that many associate with Venice, all the while offering an authentic local atmosphere. Truly Venice’s carefully selected range of the best apartments in Dorsoduro will help visitors make the most of their time in this endearing area.

Our suggested guide to the most beautiful Venice landmarks

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