What are the districts (sestieri) of Venice?
When it comes to Venice neighborhoods, you’re stepping into a world like no other. Here, streets are called calli, squares are campi, and roads along the canals are fondamente. But the true signature of the city lies in its six historic districts, known as sestieri.
The word sestiere comes from the Latin sextarius, meaning “one-sixth,” and reflects the city’s division into six unique zones. Each sestiere of Venice once functioned almost like a small city, complete with its own churches, markets, and customs. Even today, this historic identity is still strongly felt as you wander through the city.
Another curiosity: Venice has a unique house numbering system. Instead of resetting from street to street, numbers continue consecutively within each sestiere—sometimes reaching into the thousands!
How many are there and what are the districts of Venice?
As the name suggests, there are six Venice districts, or sestieri:
- San Marco
- Cannaregio
- Dorsoduro
- Castello
- Santa Croce
- San Polo
Each Venice neighborhood tells a different story. Let’s explore them one by one.
San Marco
The sestiere di San Marco Venice is the heart of the city, home to its most iconic landmarks. Here you’ll find the dazzling St. Mark’s Square, the golden Basilica, and the majestic Doge’s Palace. Don’t miss the climb up the Campanile for one of the most breathtaking views over the lagoon.
Cannaregio
Authentic and lively, Cannaregio is still largely inhabited by locals. This Jewish neighborhood in Venice is home to the first Jewish Ghetto in European history, with ancient synagogues and a rich heritage. Strolling along its fondamente, between local bacari and artisan shops, offers a glimpse of everyday Venetian life.
Dorsoduro
Elegant and artistic, sestiere Dorsoduro Venice is home to some of the city’s finest museums. Visit the Peggy Guggenheim Collection and the Gallerie dell’Accademia. From here, you can also reach the peaceful island of Giudecca, with panoramic views over the city.
Castello
The largest of the six, sestiere Castello Venice has retained its traditional, working-class soul. It hosts the Venice Biennale and the Biennale Gardens, perfect for a peaceful stroll. Also located here is the impressive Arsenale, the historic shipyard that once powered Venice’s naval empire.
Santa Croce
Often overlooked, Santa Croce is the quietest and least touristy sestiere—but it’s also the gateway to the city. Piazzale Roma, Venice’s main car and bus terminal, is here, as is the maritime station. Venture deeper into its narrow streets and you’ll discover charming squares and hidden churches.
San Polo
The smallest sestiere, sestiere San Polo Venice is packed with charm. It’s home to the famous Rialto Bridge and the bustling Rialto Market, which comes alive every morning. This district is ideal for experiencing traditional Venetian life among market vendors, craftsmen, and cicchetti bars.
Bonus: Use a Venice neighborhood map
To make the most of your visit, consider using a Venice neighborhood map to navigate the sestieri more easily. While the city may seem like a maze, understanding its layout through the six districts can turn getting lost into an adventure.
Discover the soul of Venice through its sestieri
Exploring the sestieri is like walking through layers of history, culture, and daily life. Each district offers something unique—from iconic landmarks to hidden corners waiting to be discovered.
So next time you wander through the narrow calli of Venice, remember: you’re not just crossing a city—you’re traveling through the living memory of one of the world’s most extraordinary civilizations.