Top 15 Things To Do in Venice, Italy on Your School Trip

Venice is unlike anywhere else in the world, an extraordinary blend of art, engineering, architecture, and resilience. For teachers planning an educational school trip to Italy, this floating city is more than just a scenic destination. It’s a living classroom that lets students experience history, culture, and innovation with every step, or gondola ride. Here are some of the top things to do in Venice on school trips.

1. St. Mark’s Basilica

An architectural and artistic masterpiece, St. Mark’s lets students marvel at Italo-Byzantine mosaics and Venetian history. A visit here opens dialogue around religion, trade, and empire.

2. Climb the Campanile

Take your group up the bell tower for panoramic views of the city. It’s a great geography moment, students can observe the Venetian lagoon and how the city was built on water.

3. Tour the Doge’s Palace

A deep dive into Venice’s political and judicial past. Students will explore grand halls, cross the iconic Bridge of Sighs, and walk the very prisons that once held Casanova.

4. Explore the Grand Canal by Vaporetto

Instead of a tour bus, hop on the water bus. Riding along the Grand Canal is a lesson in urban planning and transportation like no other. Students can observe the architecture and energy of Venice in motion.

5. Visit the Peggy Guggenheim Collection

Introduce students to modern art in a historic setting. This museum bridges contemporary creativity with the timeless beauty of Venice, sparking conversation around identity and expression.

6. Wander through the Rialto Market

Get students talking (and practicing their Italian) at the vibrant open-air market. It’s a perfect place to learn about local food, Mediterranean trade, and the role of marketplaces in city life.

7. Cross the Rialto Bridge

One of Venice’s most iconic sights. Have students sketch the view, reflect on the importance of bridges, or explore the symbolism of connecting cultures across water.

8. Walk the Backstreets and Hidden Campi

Get off the main tourist paths and let students discover real Venetian neighborhoods. Encourage them to map their walk, observe daily life, and reflect on what makes Venice so unique.

9. Discover Jewish Venice in the Ghetto

Visit the world’s first Jewish Ghetto and its synagogues. This powerful experience supports history and ethics curriculum around identity, inclusion, and resilience.

10. Take a Gondola Ride (With a Twist)

Go beyond the photo-op: learn how gondolas are built, and talk to a gondolier about their profession. It’s a great way to explore Venetian traditions and craftsmanship.

11. Murano Glass Factory Visit

Hop over to Murano to watch glassblowers at work. This hands-on stop offers insights into the chemistry of glassmaking and the long-standing reputation of Italian artisans.

12. Burano Island’s Colorful Homes

Famous for its bright houses and lace-making heritage, Burano is a lesson in aesthetics, craftsmanship, and community pride. Students can interview locals or reflect on how color affects emotion.

13. Attend a Mask-Making Workshop

Carnival masks are a symbol of Venetian culture. Participating in a mask-making class blends history, art, and creativity, plus students take home a one-of-a-kind souvenir.

14. Explore the Venice Biennale Grounds

Even if the Biennale isn’t in session, the area is rich in contemporary art installations. It’s a great space to discuss the role of global artistic dialogue and cultural diplomacy.

15. Practice “Getting Lost” with a Purpose

Venice is made for wandering. Let students navigate in small groups with a goal; finding a specific landmark, interviewing a local, or capturing a photo series. It builds confidence, orientation skills, and group dynamics.

Making It Meaningful

Our Venice itineraries are designed to balance deep cultural learning with structured adventure. Students will walk away not just with stunning photos, but with insights about sustainability, history, and the complexity of life on water.

Whether your trip is focused on art, history, or global citizenship, Venice offers a stage for unforgettable moments. Co-create your next great educational journey with Evolve Tours and explore the best things to do in Venice on school trips.

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