Venice: 10 events and exhibitions not to be missed in July 2025

Venice, with its unique atmosphere, is one of the world's most popular destinations for travelers. But those visiting it in July 2025 will have an even more special opportunity: exploring the lagoon city as it transforms into a grand cultural stage. The Venetian summer offers a packed calendar of events, exhibitions and concerts that combine art, music and history in exceptional locations.

You can choose from the Biennale Architettura, a global reference point for those who love design and innovation, to exhibitions in great historical museums such as the Gallerie dell'Accademia or Palazzo Ducale, the cultural offer touches all tastes. There is no shortage of outdoor experiences: the magic of concerts in St. Mark's Square, the Vivaldi Festival in historic churches, contemporary installations along the Grand Canal.

In this article you will find 10 must-see events designed to discover Venice through culture, moving among its artistic and architectural treasures. Most places are easily accessible by vaporetto, making exploration convenient even for if you are a first-time visitor to the Lagoon.

Then again, July is the perfect time to discover the most authentic side of Venice: not just as a romantic postcard, but as a living, contemporary and surprising city.

July is one of the liveliest months of the year for the lagoon city: the long days and summer weather create the ideal atmosphere to experience Venice among culture, music and tradition. The city comes alive with events involving every corner of the historic center, from museums to campielli, from noble palaces to Baroque churches, offering a fascinating mix of proposals ranging from contemporary art to classical music, from theater to dance.

The calendar of events is surprisingly rich and varied, ranging from major exhibitions hosted in the city's iconic museums to open-air performances in symbolic venues such as St. Mark's Square, passing through immersive performances, festivals dedicated to composers such as Vivaldi, and international festivals that bring artists from all over the world to Venice. There is also no shortage of more authentic events linked to local traditions, allowing you to get in touch with the city's most genuine spirit.

Whether you are planning your first visit or returning to rediscover it from a new perspective, July is the perfect time to let the pace of Venetian events guide you. Below are ten must-see events, chosen to give you a comprehensive overview of what makes Venice special this season.

If you are planning to stay a few days in Venice, consider the Venice Pass: a great solution to stress-free enjoyment of your stay in the lagoon!

An exhibition that recounts three centuries of life and art at Palazzo Vendramin Grimani, through works, documents and historical accounts of Venetian families. The rooms of the exhibition will not just house objects and decorative elements, but will themselves become stages in an evocative tale intended to accompany you through the centuries.  

The palace is located in the sestiere of San Polo, easily reached by vaporetto (“San Tomà” stop).

Palazzo Vendramin Grimani, through November 23, 2025

The fifth edition of the festival celebrates Venetian composer Antonio Vivaldi with a series of concerts, including the “Vivaldi Opera Gala” on July 26 and “The Manchester Sonatas” on July 27. The events will take place in historic venues such as the Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute and the Scuola di San Lio. 

The Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute can be reached by vaporetto line 1 or 2, Salute stop, right in front of the church. Alternatively, you can get off at Accademia and walk there by crossing the Accademia Bridge.

For the San Lio School, get off at the Rialto stop (line 1 or 2) and walk a few minutes following the signs to Campo San Lio. Both venues are located in the historic center and are easily accessible by public transportation.

Various venues in Venice, June 21-July 28, 2025

From July 2 to 13, the famous square will host a series of outdoor concerts featuring internationally renowned artists, including Ludovico Einaudi, Patti Smith and the Teatro La Fenice Orchestra. A unique opportunity to experience music in a breathtaking setting.

St. Mark's Square is easily reached by vaporetto: lines 1 and 2 stop at San Marco - Vallaresso or San Zaccaria, both within walking distance of the square. From there, follow the signs to the Basilica or Campanile: you'll find yourself in the beating heart of Venice, perfect for enjoying a concert under the stars.

Piazza San Marco, 2 - July 13, 2025

Festa del Redentore is one of the most heartfelt celebrations for Venetians, with origins dating back to the 16th century. This is an experience that we strongly recommend you include if you are planning a long weekend in Venice. During the weekend of July 19 and 20, the city will come alive with spectacular fireworks displays, religious processions and open-air dinners along the banks of the canals. The highlight is the grand fireworks display over St. Mark's Basin on Saturday evening.

St. Mark's Square, the main venue for the event, is easily reached by vaporetto: lines 1 and 2 stop at San Marco - Vallaresso or San Zaccaria, both within walking distance of the square. To watch the fireworks, it is advisable to arrive early to find a good spot along the banks.

St. Mark's Square and St. Mark's Basin, July 19-20, 2025

“Modern Bodies” at the Gallerie dell'Accademia is an exhibition that investigates the representation of the body in Renaissance Venice, with works by artists such as Titian and Tintoretto. The main nerve of the exhibition sees on the one hand, the female nude body, depicted, according to the invention typical of the Renaissance and which will have fortune until the present day, by the Venus lying and reclining on the landscape. On the other, the lyrical, suffering and sublime male body of biblical saints and heroes, portrayed in the old-fashioned manner.

Gallerie dell'Accademia is located in the Dorsoduro sestiere, easily accessible on foot or by vaporetto (“Accademia” stop).

Gallerie dell'Accademia, through July 27, 2025

From July 17 to August 2, 2025, Venice will host the 19th International Festival of Contemporary Dance, directed by Wayne McGregor. The festival presents performances by international soloists and companies, as well as training projects from the Biennale College Danza. 

Events take place at various venues in the Biennale, including Teatro alle Tese and Teatro Piccolo Arsenale. You can reach the Arsenale by waterbus line 1 or 4.1, getting off at the Arsenale stop.

Venice Arsenal, July 17-August 2, 2025

Casanova OperaPop is a musical production that reinterprets the life of Giacomo Casanova in a pop style, with spectacular sets and engaging choreography. A one-of-a-kind show that is absolutely not to be missed. The show, directed by Red Canzian, is inspired by Matteo Strukul's novel, “Casanova, the Sonata of Broken Hearts.”

St. Mark's Square is easily reached by vaporetto: lines 1 and 2 stop at San Marco - Vallaresso or San Zaccaria, both within walking distance of the square.

St. Mark's Square, July 5, 2025

On 8 July 2025, composer and pianist Giovanni Allevi will perform a special concert at the Teatro La Fenice, accompanied by the Italian Symphony Orchestra. An unmissable event for lovers of contemporary music. 

The Teatro La Fenice is located in Campo San Fantin, in the sestiere of San Marco. You can reach it on foot from St Mark's Square or by waterbus line 1, Santa Maria del Giglio stop.

La Fenice Theatre, 8 July 2025

Jazz pianist Enrico Pieranunzi will perform at the Auditorium Lo Squero, offering a concert that fuses jazz and improvisation in an atmospheric setting.

To get there take the vaporetto line 2 to the San Giorgio stop, located on the Island of San Giorgio Maggiore. The Auditorium Lo Squero is a short walk from the stop.

Auditorium Lo Squero, Island of San Giorgio Maggiore, 26 July 2025

Curated by Carlo Ratti, the 2025 edition of the Architecture Biennale explores the role of architecture in a changing world. The Giardini and Arsenale host national pavilions and installations that reflect on global challenges through architectural innovation.
Easily accessible by vaporetto (lines 1 or 2) to the “Giardini” stop.

Giardini della Biennale and Arsenale, May 10-Nov. 23, 2025