Venice Jewish Ghetto (Ghetto di Venezia) Tours and Tickets

Before the 16th century, Jews were not allowed to reside in Venice and had to wear identifying yellow caps or stars. The Ghetto Nuovo (New Ghetto) was established as a Jewish residential district. Even with restrictions, the ghetto became a thriving hub of Jewish cultural and intellectual life for centuries.

Venice’s off-the-beaten-track Cannaregio district is made for wandering. The ghetto’s tall, colorful residential buildings are particularly notable—with limited space to build housing, people built upward. You also can see artifacts in the Jewish Museum of Venice or visit one of the historic synagogues, which are only open by guided tour.

Yes. The ghetto was home to Jews from all over Europe and beyond, leading to a melting pot of food traditions. Some Jewish-influenced Venetian dishes include sardines in saor—fried sardines—and rice fried in goose fat. The ghetto also is a great place to pick up Jewish sweets and pastries in its kosher bakeries.

Yes—at least, that’s what most scholars think. The word ghèto in Italian refers to a foundry, and the Venice Jewish Ghetto was located on a former iron foundry. The area was overcrowded and dilapidated, so the word “ghetto” started to carry unsavory connotations.

Tours of the Venice Jewish Ghetto are typically offered Sunday through Friday. A few key historic sites, including the Spanish, Italian, and Levantine synagogues, are not open for tours. Some private tour providers include the ghetto in their itineraries, and audio guides can be purchased if you prefer self-guided options.

These synagogues are religious sites, so you’ll want to follow local customs. Make sure your shoulders and knees are covered; bring a loose shawl, if necessary. Typically, no photography or videography is allowed, and conversation should be kept to a minimum. The synagogues are only open at specific times.