Venice isn’t exactly famous for its greenery. When people think of the city, they imagine stone bridges, narrow alleys, and canals — not trees and grass. And yet, behind high walls and through tucked-away gates, Venice hides a surprising number of green spaces: secret gardens, public parks, and tranquil courtyards where time slows and the noise fades.

Here are some of my favourite public and semi-public gardens in Venice — ideal for wandering, reading, or simply catching your breath between photo walks.

1. Giardini della Biennale (Castello)

Created by Napoleon in the early 19th century, these are the largest public gardens in Venice and the heart of the Venice Biennale exhibitions. Even outside of Biennale season, the park is open and worth visiting: tree-lined paths, benches, and a rare sense of open space. Early mornings here are especially quiet — perfect for a reflective walk or some soft light photography.

🗺️ Location: Eastern Castello
📸 Photographer’s tip: Visit at sunrise or just after rain for beautiful reflections and solitude.

2. Giardini Reali (San Marco)

Tucked between Piazza San Marco and the Grand Canal, the Royal Gardens have been recently restored and reopened. They offer a rare green escape just steps from Venice’s most touristed spot. Once part of a Napoleonic plan to bring French-style gardens to Venice, they now serve as a stylish breather with elegant walkways and iron pavilions.

🗺️ Location: Just behind the Giardinetti Reali Vaporetto stop
📸 Photographer’s tip: Ideal for symmetry lovers and subtle urban nature shots.

3. Campo San Francesco della Vigna Cloister Garden (Castello)

Part of the grand church of San Francesco della Vigna, this serene cloister is not always open, but if you’re lucky, you might find the gate ajar. Inside, you’ll find symmetrical arcades, a simple garden layout, and an almost monastic silence. It’s a true hidden gem for photographers and those seeking calm.

🗺️ Location: North Castello
📸 Photographer’s tip: Use a 28mm lens or wider to capture the full harmony of the arches and courtyard.

4. Cloister of San Giorgio Maggiore (Isola di San Giorgio)

Just across the canal from San Marco, the island of San Giorgio is a peaceful retreat, and its church houses one of the most harmonious cloisters in Venice. Visit the bell tower for sweeping lagoon views, then descend and relax in the garden below.

🗺️ Location: San Giorgio Island, reachable by Vaporetto
📸 Photographer’s tip: Use the geometry of the columns to frame stillness and shadow.

5. Parco delle Rimembranze (Sant’Elena)

This quiet park on the far eastern edge of Venice is popular with local families and joggers but rarely visited by tourists. Tall pine trees, open fields, and war memorials create a slightly melancholic but peaceful space. Great for a picnic or simply escaping the madness of central Venice.

🗺️ Location: Sant’Elena
📸 Photographer’s tip: Great for candid shots of locals, light filtering through trees, and long-lens compression.

6. Palazzo Querini Stampalia Garden (Santa Maria Formosa)

While not free, this hidden garden — designed by Carlo Scarpa — is worth the small ticket price. It’s a masterpiece of modernist design, water features, and subtle symbolism. If you’re into architecture and minimalism, don’t miss it.

🗺️ Location: Near Campo Santa Maria Formosa
🎟️ Ticketed entry
📸 Photographer’s tip: Late afternoon light brings out the textures and angles best.

Bonus: Private Gardens Seen Through Gates

Keep your eyes open while walking — Venice has dozens of private gardens behind wrought iron gates or stone walls. Some are part of historic palazzi, others attached to convents or noble houses. They aren’t open to the public, but they offer a glimpse into a more lush and private side of Venice.

📸 Photographer’s tip: Use a fast prime lens to shoot through narrow openings with shallow depth of field.

Final Thoughts

Green spaces in Venice are rare, but they exist — and they’re beautiful precisely because they feel so unexpected. Whether you're looking for a place to think, sketch, take a break from photography, or simply breathe in the scent of old trees and salty air, these gardens and parks offer another way to see the city.

And if you’re planning to explore Venice beyond the usual, take a look at my Rexby Guide to Venice e — it includes personal, quiet corners perfect for contemplative walks and authentic photo opportunities.