Public Gardens and Green Spaces of Venice.
Public Gardens and Green Spaces of Venice. Escape the crowds, surround yourself with greenery and experience the city from a new perspective. While in Venice, take the time to discover these verdant havens, many of which to many tourists; remain hidden gems.
Venice’s historic centre is filled with hundreds of private gardens and courtyards; many hidden behind high walls. It is therefore not surprising, that it is easy to perceive Venice as a city of stone and water. These high walls, not only help protect them from salt water flooding, which is toxic to many plant root systems. Many private gardens feature raised beds, filled with salt-free imported soil, brought in by boat at considerable expense! Also remember that before the construction of the aqueduct form the mainland, fresh water was only collected by the run-off of rain water, draining into well systems.
Fortunately, Venice has significant public green spaces that welcome adults, children, and dogs.
The historic centre is home to about 112,000 square metres of public green areas, split into six gardens scattered across the city. Almost all of these parks offer benches for relaxation, as well as drinking fountains and public rest-rooms that are accessible. The parks include the Royal Gardens, Papadopoli Gardens, Park of Remembrance, Savorgnan Park, Napoleonic Gardens (including the Biennale gardens and the La Serra dei Giardini – The Greenhouse), and finally the Groggia Gardens.
Also worth discovering are the museum gardens of Ca’ Rezzonico, Ca’Zenobio, Ca’ Tron, or the Cini Foundation and the contemporary courtyard garden of Querini Stampalia.
Finally, there are many wonderful lagoon islands, offering the peace and tranquility of their ornamental and market gardens or green spaces. Many are linked by the public waterbus system.
Please read in conjunction with my post – “Venetian Gardens”; that covers their history and development (linked at bottom of page).
Please note. I have purposely given you a comprehensive information overview, rather than fill it with photographs.
External links in orange : Internal links in light blue
Discover the Hidden Green Spaces of Venice – The Six Public Gardens:
1. Giardini Reali – Royal Gardens
The Royal Gardens of Venice on the Molo in the San Marco district (banner photo above) are a true oasis in the heart of the city, covering an area of 4.500 m2 With their rich history, stunning views, and peaceful atmosphere, they are a must-visit for anyone exploring Venice.
Location. Situated behind the Procuratie Nuove, the gardens provide stunning vistas of the San Marco Basin. Here, one can behold the Campanile as it dominates St. Mark’s Square and enjoy the iconic sights of San Giorgio Maggiore and the Salute Basilica; overlooking the southern entry to the Grand Canal.
The gardens are literally adjacent to the ACTV line “San Marco Giardinetti, (serves the airport) and the San Marco Vallaresso waterbus stop (and Harry’s Bar) on the Molo, and only a few hundred metres from the San Zaccaria waterbus complex, close to the Rialto Bridge on the Riva degli Schiavoni.
History and Development. Commissioned by Napoleon in 1807, the Royal Gardens were a significant part of the project to reorganize the Marcian area of Venice. The royal architect Mezzani designed them, incorporating the classic Italian style with harmonious geometric shapes. Under Austrian rule, the management of the gardens ensued, enhancing them with small groves and tree-lined pathways.
By the early 20th century, the gardens had transitioned into public ownership.
Major restoration. The succesful revitalization of the Royal Gardens in Venice was a joint effort by the City Council and the Venice Gardens Foundation, focusing on three key aspects: architectural, landscape, and botanical.
The neoclassical pavilion and greenhouse, initially conceived by Lorenzo Santi, have been rejuvenated and now accommodate a variety of artistic, cultural, and research endeavours. The landscape has been reimagined into an enchanting Mediterranean paradise, recapturing the restraint and grace of English gardens.
The botanical revival is truly spectacular, revealing a pure and exquisitely picturesque garden. It featuring a vast array of grasses and flowers meticulously cultivated within the city. A mix of tall trees, shrubs, herbaceous and bulbous plants, climbers, and a Japanese wisteria set to bloom in spring; creates an impressive tapestry of hues and scents.
2. The Papadopoli Gardens
Location. The Papadopoli Gardens, nestled in the Santa Croce district are close to the Piazzale Roma and opposite the St Lucia Railway Terminal. Their shady ambiance is attributed to the thick foliage and evergreen species like oaks, cypresses, and cedars that dominate the area. A great place to escape and relax, from the summer heat and crowds.
Presently, the park spans 7,500 m² on an islet, flanked by the Grand Canal to the north, Rio Tolentini to the east, Rio Magaze to the south, and Rio Novo to the west. Its subdued light is a result of dense tree canopies and evergreens. The flora includes hackberries, sophoras, lime trees, yews, maples, and oaks.
History. This site originally housed the Santa Croce monastery, home to a community of “Poor Clare” nuns and a significant religious edifice that lent its name to the district. It was razed, along with other structures, to establish the park.
In 1834, at Teresa Mosconi’s behest, wife of Count Spiridione Papadopoli, Francesco Bagnara designed the garden. He fashioned the northern section adjacent to the Grand Canal into an English-style park, complete with meandering paths and undulating terrain, mirroring the romantic era’s penchant. The remainder showcased a more orderly layout, with geometrically arranged flower beds.
The gardens underwent a transformation and enlargement in 1863 by Marc Guignon, a French landscape architect, under Niccolò and Angelo Papadopoli’s ownership, garnering public acclaim. World War I bombings inflicted damage, leading to their public opening around 1920. However, major alterations were necessitated in 1933. A third of the area was demolished during the construction of the Rio Novo canal and Piazzale Roma’s construction. Also a substantial hotel complex was built on the southern side.
Adjacent to Piazzale Roma, beyond the Rio Novo, remnants of the original gardens persist in two small, unenclosed sections. The first is largely a flowerbed with several cypresses; the second is more notable for a small fountain amidst artificial rocks, possibly the remains of a nymphaeum or a grotto.
3. The Parco delle Rimembranze or Pineta di Sant’Elena
The Park of Remembrance in the Castello district, is a serene park that honours the soldiers who perished in World War II. Spanning 34,000 m2, it is filled with towering pines, lush plants, and welcoming benches. The park boasts excellent play areas for children, expansive grassy patches, and even a roller skating rink. It’s a perfect spot for a tranquil picnic, offering a slice of Venetian life, stunning views of the lagoon, and borders the Biennale’s Public Gardens. The Stadio Penza, a large soccer stadium, is situated nearby to the east.
Location Situated on its namesake island, the Pineta di Sant’Elena is nestled at the eastern edge of the Giardini Pubblici. The closest vaporetto stops are Sant’Elena and, to the west, Giardini, which is also the Biennale exhibition site.
History and Development. Since its inception in the early 1920s, the park has been a memorial space. It aims to foster Italian pride by commemorating the soldiers who sacrificed their lives in World War I (WWI). Each tree in the park represents a fallen soldier, serving as a moving homage.
During WWI, Venice assumed multiple important roles, including as a cultural and artistic hub. The Biennale di Venezia, an international art exhibition, started in 1893 and persisted through the wartime. Despite the conflict, the Biennale was revived in 1948, featuring art, film, music, and theatre. The Film Festival, in particular, was initiated during this period and has been held annually since 1935.
4. Giardini Savorgnan (Savorgnan Gardens)
Spanning roughly 9500 square metres, this park in the Cannaregio district stands as one of the city’s largest public spaces. It boasts a picturesque lawn with rolling hills, benches dotting the tree-framed walkways, drinking fountains, a playground for children, fitness apparatus, and even a section for dogs of various sizes. Designed as two offset rectangles, it presents a neat and appealing environment that is popular the locals and their children. Enjoy the refreshing shade of its nettle trees, oaks, linden trees, chestnuts, plane trees, evergreen oaks and yew trees.
Location. The Gardens are located in the western part of Cannaregio, behind Palazzo Savorgnan. They are accessible just a few meters north of the Ponte di Guglie bridge on the west side of the Cannaregio Canal, near its confluence with the Grand Canal.
A convenient landmark is the Santa Lucia Railway Terminal, which features the Ferrovia vaporetto stops. From there, it’s a brief 10-minute walk east along the Rio Terra Lista di Spagna, leading to Campo San Geremia and the garden entrance. Additionally, there is a waterbus stop named “Guglie” adjacent to the eastern side of the Ponte di Guglie bridge, serving the Cannaregio Canal.
History. This park, once a botanical garden, stands as a unique remnant of the numerous gardens that adorned the Rio di Cannaregio in the 17th century. It emerged from the unification of the historic gardens belonging to the neighboring Savorgnan and Manfrin palaces. Indeed, it is situated directly behind the Palazzo Savorgnan, an edifice erected at the close of the 17th century by the architect Giuseppe Sardi.
5. Giardini Groggia (The Park of Villa Groggia)
The Groggia Garden in the Cannaregio district established in the 19th century and now serving as a public park with a small quaint theatre, is located in the northwest sector of Cannaregio. It lies merely a hundred metres west of the Sant’Alvise church, along the Rio di Sant’Alvise. High stone walls mark the park’s western and eastern boundaries. The garden, which features a solitary entrance on a broad calle, is a favored spot among locals, especially those with young children.
History. This site hosted the 16th-century Palazzo Donà, famous for its magnificent garden and vegetable plots that extended to overlook the northern lagoon.
Location. By Waterbus (Vaporetto): Board the waterbus on Line 4.1 or 4.2 and alight at the St Alvise stop. From there, it’s a brief walk south towards the gardens, proceeding down Calle del Capitello, adjacent to the modern housing blocks.
Alternatively, stroll along the Rio di Sant’Alvise for approximately 100 metres past the church of St Alvise. The small theatre is located next to the canal. To reach the park, turn north into Calle del Capitello.
History. The 19th-century Groggia garden, occupies an area in Cannaregio where Palazzo Donà stood in the 16th century, with a beautiful garden and vegetable gardens that stretched as far as the lagoon.
In 1823 the palace was demolished to make way for a few dwellings and a brick building used as a warehouse, later transformed in the 20th century into a theatre. At the end of the 19th century, the new owner of the area, Giuseppe Groggia, built a villa surrounded by a vast garden in romantic style.
Although originally much larger, the garden is still characterised by the presence of architectural and ornamental elements of great charm, such as statues, arches, capitals and columns, most probably from the remains of the ancient Palazzo Donà.
The 5,000 metres occupied by the park are traversed by paved paths that lead from the manor house to the Art Nouveau greenhouse, the site of educational activities, and to the little theatre, where shows, concerts and workshops for children and families are regularly held.
Upon Giuseppe Groggia’s death, the villa and park were assigned to the San Gioacchino Institute in Mestre, which he founded for the education of poor girls. Since 1975, they have been owned by the Venice City Council.
6. Napoleonic Gardens (Gardens of the Biennale or Castello Gardens)
The Gardens in the Castello district, spanning 60,000 m2; stand as the city centre’s most significant and expansive green space. They exemplify Venice’s capacity to harmonize history, culture, and nature, offering a tranquil respite with benches and sculptures; nestled under the canopy of trees lining its pathways.
The Venice Biennale, hosted in the gardens, stands as one of the world’s most esteemed cultural events, featuring 30 pavilions nestled among lush trees and greenery. The Biennale has expanded to encompass art, architecture, cinema, dance, music, and theatre; drawing artists and audiences worldwide. The exhibition area extends towards the east, covering approximately two-thirds of the garden space. Beyond the Biennale, the gardens’ western section offers a tranquil haven for both residents and visitors.
Location. The Napoleonic Gardens are situated in the south-eastern part of the historic centre, in the Castello district. The waterbus stop “Giardini”, is convenienlty close to both the public park and Biennale sections. Alternatively. approach by the wide Via Guiseppe Garibaldi and enter the park at Garibaldi’s Monument.
History. The garden’s inception, dating from 1808 to 1812, is attributed to Napoleon’s desire to establish a park for the Castello district’s residents, marking one of Italy’s earliest public gardens. Architect Giannantonio Selva, who also designed Venice’s renowned La Fenice opera house, was responsible for the park’s design, which necessitated the demolition of numerous churches and monasteries in the vicinity.
Furthermore, a decision was made to link these beloved garden,s with the Giardini Reali di San Marco, by constructing a broad promenade. This promenade began along the “Strada Eugenia”, Venice’s broadest street, created by covering the Rio di Castello canal, and later renamed “Via Garibaldi” in 1866. An effigy of Giuseppe Garibaldi, an instrumental figure in the unification of Italy, marks the entrance. The promenade extends along the Riva degli Schiavoni, which was similarly expanded.
Following Napoleon’s defeat, the Austrian authorities who governed Venice preserved and enhanced the gardens. They introduced a variety of plant species and refined the layout. The inaugural Venice Biennale, which began in 1895 as an international art exhibition, attracted around 200,000 people and featured a large Central Pavilion. From 1907 onwards, foreign pavilions were established and the gardens have now developed into a cultural epicentre, featuring a further 29 pavilions that represent various nations.
NOTE. The Biennale Gardens are primarily open to the public during the Venice Biennale events. Outside of these periods, the gardens are generally not open to the public.
If you’re planning a visit, it’s best to check the official Biennale website for the most current information on opening hours and any special events that might allow access outside the usual Biennale periods. La Biennale di Venezia
In the Biennale Website, here is the specific page about the gardens: Giardini della Biennale
La Serra dei Giardini – The Greenhouse
In the Castello district, within the western side of the Napoleonic Gardens and just to the side of the Viale Garibaldi, is “The Greenhouse”. It serves as a convivial gathering spot, offering a serene environment for reading newspapers and books on gardening, showcasing a permanent exhibition of foreign plants, providing an educational venue for adults and families, and acting as a cultural hub. The Greenhouse presents a variety of activities:
- Cultural and educational programs, including music and theatre performances
- A Coffee Shop to savour coffee, natural juices, and organic products.
- Workshops designed for families and children
- Educational plant exploration for schools, led by environmental guides.
- A Flower Shop.
Location. La Serra dei Giardini – The Greenhouse in Castello, is just a few minutes walk from the Giardini della Biennale. The nearest waterbus stop is the “Giardini” – just walk north, cross the canal and up the wide Viale Garibaldi. You can also approach it from the main Via Guiseppe Garibaldi and turn into the Viale at the Garibaldi Monument. If you’re planning to visit, it’s open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
History. The Margherita Greenhouse, constructed in 1894, was designed to be a tepidarium of glass and iron, primarily to house the palm trees and other ornamental plants, displayed at the concurrent International Art Exhibition.
The decision was politically motivated to generate employment for the jobless workers of the local metallurgical firms, which were then experiencing a significant economic downturn. The new edifice was erected close to the end of the Viale Garibaldi, the former site of the three convents of San Domenico (1312), Sant’ Antonio (1346), and Sant’Anna (1242). Napoleon’s rise to power led to substantial urban changes, and with the 1809 suppression of the monastic orders, the demolition of the ancient cloistered precincts was ordered.
Following its construction, the Serra dei Giardini became a cherished place of employment, handed down through generations of gardeners until a few decades ago. In winter, the Greenhouse served to protect cold-sensitive species and to cultivate a variety of plants that would later adorn Venice’s municipal flowerbeds and its surrounding islands. In the early 1990s, the Serra dei Giardini fell out of use and began to deteriorate. However, a meticulous restoration has since revived the Greenhouse’s former splendor, preserving its original purpose and ensuring public access for botanical and naturalistic pursuits.
Museum and Foundation Gardens
Ca’ Rezzonico
Ca’ Rezzonico is a stunning 18th-century palace on the Grand Canal in the district of Dorsoduro, now a museum dedicated to 18th-century Venice. The garden here is a serene spot, offering a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of the Venetian aristocracy. The museum also features a café where you can enjoy a coffee or a light meal.
Ca’Rezzonico | Museum of 18th century Venice (visitmuve.it)
Ca’ Zenobio
Ca’ Zenobio degli Armeni, located in the Dorsoduro district, is known for its beautiful Baroque architecture and lush garden. The garden is a hidden gem, often used for literary gatherings and events. The palace itself is famous for its grand ballroom, known as the “hall of mirrors”. The music video for Madonna’s 1984 song “Like A Virgin” was filmed in the hall.
Ca’ Tron
Ca’ Tron is a historic palace facing the Grand Canal in the district of Santa Croce; near the church of San Stae. Now owned by the Università Iuav di Venezia, the palace features a small garden with a well at its centre; providing a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. The garden is part of the university’s Department of Design and Planning in Complex Environments.
The Cini Foundation
The Cini Foundation, located on the island of San Giorgio Maggiore, boasts beautiful gardens that are part of the larger complex of the foundation. These gardens are often used for cultural events and exhibitions, offering a tranquil setting with stunning views of the lagoon.
The island in Venice, is really worth a visit, to explore the beauty and tranquillity of this site away from the crowds.
The view of the Isola di San Giorgio Maggiore, with its famous Palladian styled Basilica in classical Renaissance style, is from the waterfront at the Piazzetta San Marco; one the great classic views of Venice and probably amongst the most admired by artists and photographers. The 360-degree panoramic view from its Campanile, is the finest in Venice.
Apart from the Basilica, the former monastery now houses the Fondazione Giorgio Cini, one of the most prestigious international cultural institutions. You can visit this outstanding monumental complex with a guided tour, that can be highly recommended.
The foundation has its own institute and residential research programmes – the Branca Centre. It is dedicated to the lasting artistic, cultural and scientific legacy of Venice. Enjoy the extraordinary architecture of the Grand Staircase, Refectory and Library; all magnificently restored to perfection.
Finally, relax in the wonderful gardens and woods; admire the Sir Norman Foster designed Chapel and see the Glass Museum and Music Theatre.
Isola di San Giorgio Maggiore a Venezia I Info utili per la visita (visitcini.com):English
Please see my detailed and ilustrated post, which includes the Cini Foundation: Isola di San Giorgio Maggiore
Fondazione Querini Stampalia and Garden
The Foundation has one noteworthy garden in San Marco, designed by the Venetian architect Carlo Stampa; at the end of the 1950’s. The space features rigorous geometry with austere cement partitions, set in a grassy carpet with four different trees and shallow water ponds.
(Note.The Fondazione Querini Stampalia is a cultural institution in Venice, Italy, founded in 1869 at the behest of Conte Giovanni, the last descendant of the Venetian Querini Stampalia family and spaces on the ground floor of the historic building.
It is the only example where, of an ancient family, they preserved heritage, home, library, archives, collections of art, furniture and furnishings. The sixteenth century palace, located between Rialto and San Marco, houses a library, civic center and historical museum. The ground floor and garden were redesigned by Carlo Scarpa in the early 60s. Recently Mario Botta has designed the new access, bookshop and cafeteria.
San Marco 391 – 30124 Venice
Querini Stampalia: a unique cultural experience in Venice
Lagoon islands with gardens, green spaces and market gardening agriculture
Here’s a small selection below. You can see my series of 20 posts of the best islands to visit in the category of: Islands of the Lagoon
San Francesco del Deserto
Located between the islands of Sant’ Erasmo and Burano, San Francesco del Deserto is an idyllic refuge in the Venice Lagoon.
This oasis of peace and tranquility, is around 4 hectares in size, surrounded by cypress trees and pines and dominated by a 13th century Franciscan monastery of the Order of Minor Friars.
It is named after San Francesco d’Assisi, who spent time on the island in the year 1220 and is now home to a small community of friars; who offer tours and limited accommodation.
Please see my detailed and ilustrated post: San Francesco del Deserto
San Lazzaro degli Armeni.
A beautifully green island in the southern Lagoon, San Lazzaro degli Armeni has since 1717, been home to the Mekhitarists; an Armenian Catholic congregation.
Also known as “Saint Lazarus of the Armenians,” or “Սուրբ Ղազար, Surb Ghazar” in Armenian, this site is among the most renowned historic landmarks of the Armenian diaspora.
The island is situated 2 km southeast of Venice proper, west of, and near the Lido, encompassing an area of 3 hectares (7.4 acres). San Lazzaro has undergone several expansions beyond its original dimensions through land reclamation.
The English Romantic poet Lord Byron was one of many illustrious visitors to the island, staying from November 1816 to February 1817.
Please see my detailed and ilustrated post: San Lazzaro degli Armeni
The Island of Sant’Erasmo
The Island of Sant’Erasmo, often referred to as Venice’s “Market Garden,” is sparsely populated and perfect for a half-day excursion.
Formerly a key defense site for the northern Venetian lagoon, Sant’Erasmo now offers a tranquil retreat for nature lovers, away from the bustling crowds and narrow alleys of the city.
A visit to the island affords a serene experience, meandering through silent lanes, cultivated fields, vineyards, and paths along canals and the coast. It’s also celebrated for its breathtaking lagoon vistas and the wading birds that frequent the surrounding sandbanks and flats. There’s a great sandy beach and bar-restaurant
Sant Erasmo’s most renowned produce is the “carciofo violetto,” or purple artichoke, harvested from late April until the end of June.
Please see my detailed and ilustrated post: The Island of Sant’Erasmo
The Island of La Certosa,
Close to Venice yet abandoned since 1960; has now been developed into a fully serviced marina and green recreational space, popular with families and children and for hosting events.
Please see my detailed and ilustrated post: The Island of La Certosa
Links (internal–external)
My post covering the historic and developmental aspects of Venetian gardens and styles: The Gardens of Venice
Venetian Wells – Drinking Water
The Venetian Lagoon and its Ecosystem
if you want to see many photos of the public gardens, take a look at this website: Parks and Gardens in Venice, Italy | Venice for Visitors (europeforvisitors.com)
Venice – Public Gardens and Green Spaces Venice – Public Gardens and Green Spaces Venice – Public Gardens and Green Spaces.
Venice – Public Gardens and Green Spaces Venice – Public Gardens and Green Spaces Venice – Public Gardens and Green Spaces.