Castello

The city of Venice is divided into six sestieri, or districts. Sestiere Castello is the easternmost district of the city. It is not very touristy and for this reason it can be considered one of the most authentic areas of the city.

It was the seat of the first Venetian diocese and had a strategic military function since the castle, from which it takes its name, was built here.

Walking through the streets you can discover glimpses of daily life of the many Venetians who live in this residential area. Visit the Basilica of San Pietro di Castello, the Querini Stampalia Foundation museum, or simply relax in the Biennale gardens, the largest green area in Venice.

The Venetian Arsenal is undoubtedly a good starting point for a walk to discover the Castello district, while from the monumental and highly scenic Riva degli Schiavoni waterfront area, you can enjoy a spectacular view of the basin of San Marco.

An unmissable gem of this district is certainly the Libreria Acqua Alta, where vintage and non-vintage books are arranged on boats, gondolas, canoes and tanks that enable the books to be saved when the water rises.