Punta della Dogana (or simply Punta Dogana) is a unique area of Venice, characterized by its triangular-shaped building and its tall tower rising over six meters. For centuries, it marked the point of entry for all commercial routes bringing goods to the great Rialto market.
Today, together with Palazzo Grassi, it is a museum of contemporary art belonging to the Pinault Collection. In this guide, we will walk you through Punta della Dogana, providing all the essential information on what to see and what to do in the area.
You can admire this spectacular panoramic spot during a gondola ride along the Grand Canal. Unforgettable and romantic, it is one of the experiences not to be missed in Venice.
Where is Punta della Dogana located?
We are in the Dorsoduro district of Venice, on a small stretch of land where the Giudecca Canal meets the Grand Canal. This area is home to three extraordinary and historic landmarks: the Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute, the Patriarchal Seminary, and the Dogana da Mar—the actual building of Punta della Dogana, which we will explore in this guide.
CURIOSITY
Punta della Dogana is also known by Venetians as Punta della Salute or Punta da Màr.
The Dogana da Mar
A brief history
During the Italian Renaissance, the Serene Republic of Venice became one of the most powerful states in the Mediterranean, with increasingly extensive trade routes and ever-growing commercial traffic. The original historic customs house gradually became obsolete and inadequate to handle the volume of goods arriving in the city.
For this reason, in 1676, architect Giuseppe Benoni designed a new building intended to serve as a more modern and efficient customs headquarters, better suited to the needs of the time.
Punta della Dogana: what to see
The unique architecture of Punta della Dogana
The Dogana da Mar is a two-story building with a triangular floor plan that closely resembles the bow of a ship. It is easily recognizable from a distance thanks in part to the two monumental sculptures created by Bernardo Falconi.
The Golden Sphere at Punta della Dogana, Venice
A work of art that has become famous around the world and rises high above the skyline: a gilded bronze sphere supported by two giant atlantes. Resting on what is known as the “Golden Sphere” is the statue of the goddess Fortuna—called “Occasio”—created by Bernardo Falconi. Despite its size, the sculpture rotates and indicates the direction of the wind.
This artwork carries a strong symbolic meaning: just as the statue turns with changing winds, so too can our fate shift from one day to the next, suddenly and entirely unexpectedly.
The Lantern: the beacon that guided ships
It was one of the main reference points for merchant ships arriving in Venice. Standing 6 meters tall, weighing 1,650 kg and with a 50 cm diameter, it featured a 180 cm lantern: the light was clearly visible even through the fog of the lagoon.
Built between 1850 and 1860, it has since been restored by the company Neri, which reinforced the existing structure by adding a steel core. The restoration work was far from simple, especially considering that the lamp alone weighs 85 kg.
All information about the restoration work is available on Neri’s official website.
Contemporary art exhibitions and sculpture
Punta della Dogana, together with Palazzo Grassi, a historic cultural hub in the San Marco district, are two contemporary art museums connected to the Pinault Collection. The curatorial program is extremely rich, featuring a wide range of exhibitions, artworks, and sculptures.
What can you see from Punta della Dogana, Venice?
The panoramic view from this small strip of land is truly breathtaking. From Fondamenta Salute, you can admire in all its grandeur the St. Mark’s Campanile, easily recognizable alongside the architecture of the Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale), the historic residence of the Doge of Venice (as shown in the photo above).
In front of us lies the small island dominated by the imposing Church of San Giorgio Maggiore, one of Palladio’s finest masterpieces. To the right, the view opens onto the entire Giudecca Island, where the Church of Santa Maria della Presentazione clearly stands out.
Take a few minutes to listen to the sounds of the lagoon and allow this landscape to become part of you.
How to get to Punta della Dogana, Venice
You can reach Punta della Dogana in two ways: on foot, with a pleasant walk of about 30 minutes, or by using the vaporetto (water bus).
By Walking
Starting from Venezia Santa Lucia Train Station, cross the Ponte della Costituzione and walk along the Rio Novo. Continuing your walk, you will cross the entire Dorsoduro district. Below you’ll find a map where you can set your navigator to guide you on foot all the way to Punta della Dogana.
By ACTV Vaporetto
From Piazzale Roma B, you can take Line 5.1 and get off at the Zattere B stop. From there, it’s about a 10-minute walk. Once you arrive, set your navigator using the map above if you need help finding your way.
Remember to purchase your ticket online to avoid long—and exhausting—lines at the ticket office. There is no surcharge, so buying it online is recommended via this link. If you plan to use the vaporetto multiple times during the day, you can also purchase a 24-hour pass, a 48-hour ticket, or passes valid for up to one week.
Tickets and opening hours
Punta della Dogana is open every day (except Tuesdays) from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm. Last admission is at 6:00 pm. The combined ticket for Palazzo Grassi and Punta della Dogana costs €15.
Reduced admission is available for students up to 25 years old with a valid university ID. Admission is free for visitors under 19 and for authorized guides. Journalists are also entitled to free entry.
What to see nearby
In addition to the Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute, we recommend visiting the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, just a couple of minutes away on foot. It is one of the most important international landmarks for modern art.
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