Fondaco dei Tedeschi
(san marco)

In one of Venice’s most famous buildings a new luxury shopping center recently opened. It’s definitely worth a visit. During its life the building has been used as a merchant trading post, a custom’s house, and then a post office. It is stunning inside. Many of the shops are high-end designer stores but you can still walk around and enjoy the breathtaking interior without buying anything. The best part is to take the lift to the top where there is a spectacular roof terrace. You can see right over Rialto Bridge and the rooftops of Venice. You sometimes need to book a time slot but it is free (we have been several times and until now there has been no need to book).

FAMILY FRIENDLINESS

The toilets are good here. Large and regularly maintained although they are often filled with tour groups so there might be a queue. The lift up to the viewing terrace is large and can accomodate a pram. Be careful with your kids on the viewing terrace.

INSIDER TIP

Go up to the roof terrace at midday. All the bells in Venice start to ring so there is a wonderful panoramic sound of church bells surrounding you.

Address: Calle del Fontego dei Tedeschi

Water bus stop: Rialto (lines 1 and 2) 

Closed: Open every day

Opening hours: 1000-2000

Website: www.dfs.com