The Grand Canal (Italian: Canal Grande [kaˌnal ˈɡrande], locally and informally Canalazzo; Venetian: Canal Grando, locally usually Canałaso [kanaˈɰaso]) is the largest channel in Venice, Italy, forming one of the major water-traffic corridors in the city.

Explore the Grand Canal in Venice, Italy, famous for historic palaces, iconic bridges, gondolas, and scenic views of the city's waterways.

Shaped like a long, curving “S,” the Canal runs for about 3.8 kilometers (2.4 miles) through the heart of the city, dividing Venice into two halves. It is the main highway of Venice, carrying goods, people, and more both in Venice itself and between the lagoon and the heart of the city.

The Grand Canal is lined with many of the main Venice landmarks – including grand palaces, or palazzi, magnificent hotels and some of the most beautiful churches in Europe. In this detailed Grand Canal guide, I introduce you to its four bridges and also explain how to cross it by other means.

Grand Canal, main waterway of Venice, Italy, following a natural channel that traces a reverse-S course from San Marco Basilica to Santa Chiara Church and divides the city into two parts.

Just a short walk away from Piazza San Marco, Aman Venice offers the perfect place from which to explore this romantic city, and to discover the hidden gems of the city while floating away on a traditional gondola.

Explore Venice's Grand Canal, its remarkable history, palaces, churches, bridges, boats and the architectural treasures lining this famous waterway.

Along the Grand Canal, a unique panorama of Venetian architecture from the last five centuries unfolds. One of the most evocative experiences of a visit to Venice is a stroll down the main street, whether in a Gondola, a private launch, or one of the vaporetti, the transport boats.

Line 1 vaporetto Venice — the Grand Canal classic from Piazzale Roma to Lido via every landmark. Frequency, hours, best seats and which Vaporetto ticket you need.

Discover Venice’s Grand Canal: history, landmarks, bridges, transportation, and must-see sights along the city’s most famous waterway.