Overview

This sestiere is the only area of the city that reflects a true, characteristic cross-section of Venice. It is the least touristic area and the only one in which cars can circulate being the only point of Venice connected with the mainland. It takes its name from the Church of Santa Croce, demolished in the first half of the nineteenth century. Opposite the train station, the first thing that appears is the church of San Simeone Piccolo, best known for its prominent location. The neighborhood has many things to offer but the most important landmarks and churches are located on the east side.

One of the oldest churches is San Zan Degolà, a rare example of Venetian-Byzantine architecture, with the oldest frescoes in the city inside. Another church noteworthy for its beautiful inverted ship's keel ceiling is San Giacomo dall'Orio, a masterpiece of Venetian Gothic style that preserves several masterpieces of Venetian Renaissance painting.

For those who prefer to explore the meeting places of the Venetians, we recommend Campo dei Tolentini and the Papadopoli Gardens, one of the best places to relax and admire the view. The many museums not to be missed include the one in Palazzo Mocenigo with its collection of fabrics and ancient clothes, Ca' Pesaro permanent seat of the International Gallery of Modern Art and the Museum of Natural History, hosted in one of the most majestic palaces overlooking the Grand Canal, the Fondaco dei Turchi.