See Venice from a Different Angle: Take a Day Trip to San Giorgio Maggiore
San Giorgio Maggiore is a charming island located in the Venetian lagoon, just a short ferry ride away from the hustle and bustle of Venice. It's a hidden gem that many visitors to the city overlook, but those who make the trip are rewarded with stunning views, rich history, and a peaceful escape from the crowds. There are many things to do and see on San Giorgio Maggiore, but here are the top 5 things that I would recommend to visitors plus 5 great restaurants to eat there:
Top 5 Things To Do on San Giorgio Maggiore
- Visit the Church of San Giorgio Maggiore: This is the island's most famous attraction and a must-see for anyone visiting San Giorgio Maggiore. The church was designed by Andrea Palladio, one of the most important architects of the Renaissance period, and it features a stunning white marble facade, a classical portico, and a large dome. Inside, visitors can admire beautiful artworks by famous artists such as Tintoretto and Carpaccio.
- Climb the Bell Tower: The bell tower of San Giorgio Maggiore offers breathtaking views of Venice and the lagoon. Visitors can take an elevator to the top of the tower to enjoy the panoramic views, which are particularly spectacular at sunset. From the top of the tower, you can see all of Venice, including St. Mark's Square and the Doge's Palace.
- Explore the Garden: San Giorgio Maggiore is home to a beautiful garden, which is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. The garden is filled with palm trees, cypress trees, and a variety of colorful flowers, and it's a lovely spot to relax and enjoy the views of the lagoon.
- Dine at a local restaurant: There are several restaurants on the island that serve traditional Venetian cuisine, including fresh seafood, pasta, and pizza. Many of the restaurants offer outdoor seating with beautiful views of the lagoon, making them the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely lunch or dinner.
- Attend a concert or cultural event: San Giorgio Maggiore is also known for its cultural events, such as concerts, art exhibitions, and film screenings. The island is home to a cultural center that hosts a variety of events throughout the year. Check the schedule to see if there's anything happening during your visit.
How Long Do I Need To Explore San Giorgio Maggiore?
The amount of time you need to explore San Giorgio Maggiore depends on how much you want to see and do on the island. If you only plan to visit the Church of San Giorgio Maggiore and climb the bell tower, you could easily see everything in a couple of hours. However, if you want to explore more of the island's attractions, such as the Naval History Museum, the Fondazione Giorgio Cini, or the garden, you'll need to allow more time. You could easily spend half a day or more on the island if you want to take your time and see everything.
In addition, you may want to factor in the time it takes to get to and from San Giorgio Maggiore. The island is accessible by vaporetto (water bus) from various points in Venice, and the journey typically takes around 10-15 minutes each way. Overall, I would recommend allowing at least 2-3 hours for a visit to San Giorgio Maggiore, and more if you want to see all the island's attractions or simply take your time and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Where To Eat on San Giorgio Maggiore
If you are looking for somewhere to eat on the island, these are my favorite spots. San Giorgio Maggiore is a small island, and there are only a handful of restaurants on the island. Here are five of the best restaurants on San Giorgio Maggiore:
- Ristorante San Giorgio: This restaurant is located right on the waterfront with stunning views of Venice. It offers a menu of classic Venetian dishes and seafood, as well as a selection of Italian wines.
- Osteria Oliva Nera: This cozy and welcoming restaurant is tucked away in a quiet corner of the island. It serves a range of Italian and Venetian dishes, including homemade pasta and fresh seafood, and has a great selection of wine.
- Caffè Del Doge: This café serves excellent coffee and pastries, as well as light lunches and snacks. It's a great place to grab a quick bite or enjoy a leisurely coffee break.
- Ristorante ai Cacciatori: This rustic restaurant serves traditional Venetian cuisine, with a focus on meat dishes. It has a cozy atmosphere and is popular with locals and tourists alike.
- Bacareto Da Lele: This small bar serves traditional Venetian cicchetti (small bites) and a great selection of wine. It's a great spot for a quick snack or a drink with friends.
While there are only a few restaurants on San Giorgio Maggiore, they offer a great selection of Italian and Venetian cuisine, and many of them have stunning views of Venice.
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See Venice from a Different Angle: Take a Day Trip to San Giorgio Maggiore