Venice and the Festa del Redentore 2026: what to see from Marina di Venezia

Venice, the “Serenissima”, is a city unlike any other in the world. Built on a system of more than 100 islands set within the Venetian lagoon, it is known for the richness of its history, the value of its artistic heritage, its palaces overlooking the water, its canals crossed by gondolas, and that romantic, suspended atmosphere that makes it an unforgettable destination in every season. 

From Marina di Venezia, the city is easy to reach with a motorboat journey of around 35 minutes: an evocative experience from the very start, ideal for turning a holiday day into a special excursion to discover Venice and its most authentic traditions. 

When you ask us which are the most important sights to see in Venice, our first suggestion is almost always St Mark’s Square, the symbolic heart of the city, with its majestic Byzantine basilica, the iconic bell tower and the timeless elegance of its porticoes. The list would not be complete without the Doge’s Palace, guardian of the political and institutional history of the Serenissima, or the Rialto Bridge, which crosses the Grand Canal and offers one of the most evocative viewpoints over the life and movement of the city. 

But Venice is much more than its most famous places. It is a city rich in art, hidden details, quiet views and centuries-old traditions that reveal its most authentic character. Among these, one of the occasions most loved and deeply felt by Venetians is without doubt the Festa del Redentore, which in 2026 will be celebrated over the weekend of Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 July. 

The Festa del Redentore has its roots in the 16th century, when Venice was struck by a terrible plague epidemic. To ask for an end to the disease, the government of the Republic made a vow to build a church dedicated to Christ the Redeemer on the island of Giudecca. Since then, every year, the city has renewed this deep bond between memory, faith and community, transforming the Redentore into a celebration that brings together spirituality, popular tradition and spectacle. 

The design of the Church of the Redentore was entrusted to Andrea Palladio, one of the most influential architects of the Italian Renaissance. His style, inspired by the harmony of classical architecture and reinterpreted with remarkable modernity, also left an important mark on Venice. For this reason, a day in the city can become the ideal opportunity to follow an unusual itinerary in Palladio’s footsteps. 

The route can begin in the Castello district, a quieter and more authentic area than the most popular itineraries, where everyday Venetian life still flows at a gentle pace. Here you can admire the Basilica Co-Cathedral of San Pietro di Castello and the Church of San Francesco della Vigna, whose façades are connected to Palladio’s work. 

Continuing on, the itinerary leads towards the island of Giudecca, home to the Church of Santa Maria della Presentazione, known as Le Zitelle, and above all the Church of the Redentore, the centre of the religious celebrations during the festival. 

The Church of San Giorgio Maggiore, overlooking the St Mark’s Basin and welcoming visitors with one of the most elegant perspectives over the lagoon, is also a masterpiece by Palladio. With its bell tower and spectacular view of Venice, it certainly deserves a visit. 

For those who wish to explore further, the itinerary can end at the Gallerie dell’Accademia, where numerous drawings and projects are preserved, illustrating the influence of the Veneto architect on the city and on the history of art. 

Following this itinerary during the days of the Festa del Redentore means experiencing Venice at a particularly intense and authentic moment. For the occasion, the traditional votive bridge is set up: a temporary connection linking the Zattere to the Church of the Redentore on the island of Giudecca, allowing Venetians and visitors to reach the symbolic place of the celebration on foot. 

The most eagerly awaited moment, however, is the evening of Saturday 18 July 2026, when the St Mark’s Basin fills with boats decorated with lights, ornaments and colours. As tradition has it, many Venetians enjoy dinner on board with typical dishes, while waiting for the firework display that lights up the lagoon from 11:30 pm. The reflections of the fireworks on the water transform Venice into a natural stage, creating an atmosphere that is moving and difficult to forget. 

To make the most of this day, we recommend planning ahead, purchasing transport tickets at the Information Office, wearing comfortable shoes and letting yourself be guided by the rhythm of the city. 

From Marina di Venezia, the Redentore becomes the perfect opportunity to discover Venice from a different perspective: through art, history, tradition and that magic on the water that only the Serenissima can offer.