Palazzo Rezzonico
- Palazzo Rezzonico: A Grand Palace on the Grand Canal
- How to Get There
- Hours of Operation and Admission
- Guided Tours
- What to See Inside
- Thematic Exhibitions
- The Grand Canal View
- The Caffè Rezzonico
- The Museum Shop
- Events and Workshops
- Accessibility
- Photography and Filming
- Nearby Attractions
- Tips for Visiting
- Insider Tip: The Secret Garden
Palazzo Rezzonico: A Grand Palace on the Grand Canal
Venice, the city of canals and bridges, is renowned for its rich history, art, and architecture. Among its many architectural treasures is the Palazzo Rezzonico, a magnificent palace located on the Grand Canal. Built in the 17th century for the Rezzonico family, a wealthy and influential Venetian family, the palace is now a museum that houses a remarkable collection of art and furniture from the 18th century.
A visit to the Palazzo Rezzonico is a journey back in time, offering a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Venetian nobility. The palace's grand rooms are adorned with elaborate frescoes, paintings, and sculptures, showcasing the talents of some of the most renowned artists of the period, such as Tiepolo, Canaletto, and Longhi. The museum also exhibits a collection of exquisite furniture, porcelain, and silverware, providing a glimpse into the domestic life of the Rezzonico family.
How to Get There
The Palazzo Rezzonico is situated along the Grand Canal, between the Ca’ Foscari and the Ca’ Labia palaces, and can be easily reached by waterbus (vaporetto) or on foot.
To get there by waterbus, take line 1 or 2 and get off at the Ca’ Rezzonico stop. The museum is just a short walk from the stop.
To get there on foot, walk along the Grand Canal from St. Mark’s Square, and you will reach the Palazzo Rezzonico in about 20 minutes.
If you are arriving by private boat, you can moor at the museum’s private dock.
Hours of Operation and Admission
The Palazzo Rezzonico is open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm. The museum is closed on Mondays and on major holidays such as Christmas Day and New Year's Day. Admission to the museum costs €10 for adults, €8 for seniors and students, and €6 for children aged 6 to Visitors can purchase tickets online or at the museum's ticket office.
The Palazzo Rezzonico offers a variety of discounts and special offers throughout the year. For example, visitors can get a 50% discount on admission on the first Sunday of every month. The museum also offers free admission to children under 6 years old and to visitors with disabilities.
Guided Tours
Guided tours of the Palazzo Rezzonico are available in English, Italian, French, German, and Spanish. They typically last for about an hour and provide visitors with an in-depth look at the museum's collection and history. Tours can be booked online or in person at the museum's ticket office.
Guided tours are a great way to learn more about the Palazzo Rezzonico and its collection. The guides are knowledgeable and passionate about the museum, and they can provide visitors with insights that they might not otherwise get. Visitors who are short on time or who want to get the most out of their visit should consider booking a guided tour.
To book a guided tour, visitors can either call the museum directly or book online through the museum's website. Tours must be booked in advance, and they are subject to availability. Visitors are advised to book their tours well in advance, especially during peak season.
What to See Inside
The Palazzo Rezzonico houses an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and furniture that offers a glimpse into the life and culture of Venice during the 18th century. The highlights of the collection include works by renowned Venetian artists such as Canaletto, Tiepolo, and Guardi. Visitors can admire masterpieces such as Canaletto's "View of the Grand Canal with Santa Maria della Salute" and Tiepolo's "Allegory of Virtue and Nobility." The museum also boasts a collection of sculptures by Antonio Canova and other Venetian artists.
In addition to the paintings and sculptures, the Palazzo Rezzonico is home to a remarkable collection of furniture and decorative arts. Visitors can see exquisite pieces of furniture, including the famous "Rezzonico Armchair," which is considered one of the most important examples of Venetian furniture design. The museum also displays a variety of chandeliers, mirrors, and other decorative objects that were once used to adorn the palace's lavish interiors.
Thematic Exhibitions
The Palazzo Rezzonico frequently holds thematic exhibitions that delve into various facets of Venetian art and culture. These exhibitions provide a distinctive viewpoint on the city's rich artistic legacy and frequently showcase works of art that are not typically on display. Themes explored in previous exhibitions have included the impact of the Grand Canal on Venetian art, the role of women in Venetian society, and the influence of foreign artists on Venetian painting.
These exhibitions are a fantastic way to learn more about Venice's complicated past and artistic environment. Make sure to check the museum's website or ask a member of staff for information on upcoming shows while you're there. The museum frequently organizes guided tours and special events in connection with these exhibitions, which gives visitors an even deeper understanding of the works of art and the historical context in which they were created.
The Grand Canal View
The Palazzo Rezzonico offers some of the most breathtaking views of the Grand Canal in all of Venice. The museum's windows on the piano nobile (first floor) look out onto the canal, and visitors can enjoy panoramic vistas of the waterway, the passing gondolas, and the historic buildings that line its banks. The views are especially beautiful at sunset, when the sky turns a golden hue and the buildings are illuminated by the soft light.
Visitors can take a seat on one of the window benches and relax while they admire the spectacular scenery. It is the perfect place to take a break from sightseeing and soak up the unique atmosphere of Venice. The Grand Canal is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city, and it is a must-see for any visitor. The views from the Palazzo Rezzonico offer a unique perspective on this famous waterway and are not to be missed.
The Caffè Rezzonico
After exploring the museum's galleries, visitors can relax and enjoy a break at the Caffè Rezzonico, located on the ground floor. The café offers a charming ambiance with its elegant décor, featuring antique mirrors and chandeliers. Visitors can savor delicious light refreshments, including a variety of coffee and tea selections, as well as a tempting array of pastries and cakes. The café also provides a delightful selection of wines and prosecco, perfect for sipping while taking in the Grand Canal views. Whether seeking a quick pick-me-up or a leisurely afternoon respite, the Caffè Rezzonico offers a perfect spot to unwind and soak up the museum's atmosphere.
The Museum Shop
The Palazzo Rezzonico Museum Shop is a treasure trove of souvenirs and gifts inspired by the museum's collection and Venetian art and culture. Located on the ground floor of the museum, the shop offers a wide range of items, from postcards and prints to books and replicas of artworks. Visitors can find unique and high-quality souvenirs, including jewelry, ceramics, glassware, and textiles, all carefully curated to reflect the museum's rich heritage. The shop also stocks a selection of books on Venetian art, history, and culture, as well as guides to the museum and its collection. Whether looking for a special gift for a loved one or a memento of your visit to Venice, the Palazzo Rezzonico Museum Shop is sure to have something to delight and inspire.
Events and Workshops
The Palazzo Rezzonico offers a variety of events and workshops for visitors of all ages. These events, aimed at fostering cultural exchange and offering unique experiences, are held in the museum's event spaces and are often centered on Venetian art and culture. Workshops may include hands-on experiences such as painting or crafting, while talks, lectures, and presentations are led by experts in the field of art history.
Participation in such events and workshops provides visitors with an opportunity to delve deeper into specific aspects of Venetian art and culture and to engage with professionals and fellow enthusiasts. The museum's calendar of events provides information about upcoming events, registration details, and participation fees. By checking the museum's website or social media platforms, you can stay up-to-date on the latest events and workshops and plan your visit accordingly.
Accessibility
The Palazzo Rezzonico is committed to ensuring that all visitors can enjoy the museum's collections and exhibitions. The museum is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators providing access to all floors. Additionally, there are accessible restrooms and reserved parking spaces for visitors with disabilities.
Visitors with disabilities who require assistance can request a wheelchair at the museum's entrance. Staff members are also available to provide assistance with navigating the museum and finding accessible routes.
The museum also offers a variety of programs and services for visitors with disabilities, including guided tours and workshops. These programs are designed to make the museum's collections and exhibitions accessible to everyone.
For more information on accessibility at the Palazzo Rezzonico, please visit the museum's website or contact the museum's visitor services department.
Photography and Filming
Photography is allowed inside the Palazzo Rezzonico, but the use of flash and tripods is prohibited. This is to protect the delicate works of art from damage. Visitors are also asked to be respectful of other visitors and not to disturb them while they are enjoying the museum.
Filming is allowed for personal use only. Commercial filming or photography requires prior permission from the museum administration. Visitors who wish to film or take professional photographs should contact the museum's press office in advance to obtain the necessary permits.
Nearby Attractions
The Palazzo Rezzonico is situated in the heart of Venice, making it a great starting point for exploring the city's other cultural highlights. A short walk across the Grand Canal leads to the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, where visitors can admire a vast array of modern and contemporary art, including works by Picasso, Dalí, and Pollock, as well as the tranquil Peggy Guggenheim's Garden. For those seeking a deeper dive into Venetian history, the Punta della Dogana, located at the tip of the Dorsoduro district and housing the François Pinault Foundation, showcases rotating exhibitions of modern and contemporary art.
Tips for Visiting
A visit to the Palazzo Rezzonico can be a rewarding experience but it can become tiring for visitors who are not prepared. The building is large and there is a lot to see. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes. It is also a good idea to take breaks and rest in one of the many rooms of the palace as there is not much seating available in the museum. Visitors are also encouraged to visit during the less crowded hours of the day. They can avoid the big tour groups by arriving in the morning and being one of the first visitors. If, on the other hand, they choose to visit the museum in the afternoon, it is better to wait until after three in the afternoon so that the museum is less crowded. Although the museum is an accessible space, it is worth mentioning that the museum is not equipped with storage space for bulky items, so visitors are advised not to bring large bags, luggage, or umbrellas with them.
Insider Tip: The Secret Garden
For a moment of tranquility away from the hustle and bustle of the museum, step out onto the hidden terrace overlooking a small, secluded garden. This secret spot offers a peaceful retreat where you can soak in the beauty of the lush greenery and enjoy a moment of contemplation surrounded by the historical charm of Palazzo Rezzonico.
