Riva degli Schiavoni is Venice’s great waterfront promenade, stretching east from the Doge’s Palace along the Bacino di San Marco. Part thoroughfare and part open-air viewpoint, it is a place to walk slowly, watch the boats and take in the city from the edge of the lagoon.
The Riva takes its name from the Schiavoni, merchants and sailors from Dalmatia who once moored and traded here. Its waterfront became an important arrival point for visitors to the Venetian Republic. Along the promenade stands the Church of Santa Maria della Pietà, associated with Antonio Vivaldi, who taught and composed music for girls at the adjoining institution.
The views are the main attraction: across the water are San Giorgio Maggiore and its white Palladian church, with the Salute dome farther west. Near the Doge’s Palace, Ponte della Paglia offers a classic view of the Bridge of Sighs. Continue east along the waterfront for the Arsenale and the Biennale gardens, or turn inland to explore the quieter streets of Castello.
Visit early for a less crowded walk, especially near St Mark’s, or come around sunset for the lagoon light. San Zaccaria vaporetto stop is right by the promenade; several bridges along the route have steps. Waterfront cafés charge for their views, so head a few streets into Castello for a less expensive coffee or lunch, and check the tide forecast in autumn and winter.