Cannaregio

Cannaregio is one of the most fascinating districts in Venice. It is very convenient as a base for those who arrive by car or train, as both the garage and the station are just minutes away on foot from any part of the sestiere. This colorful area is said by the Venetians who live here to most closely resemble the Venice of old. It has an easily identifiable neighborhood atmosphere, and is brimming with small artisan shops, butchers, clothing and specialty stores.

Cannaregio was also home to the Jews of Venice, who were confined to its Ghetto (from geto, the venetian word for foundry) for several hundred years. The Ca' d'Oro, one of the most beautiful buildings anywhere in the world, hosts a fascinating collection of Venetian artifacts from the 17th century and earlier, including the entire intact bedroom of a 16th century Venetian noblewoman. The area abounds with small restaurants, bars and wine bars (bacari, enoteca) where you can (as the University students) always find some good, reasonably priced food and drink or that quick snack.

Try Cannaregio for a different side of Venice!