Venice

Biennale Gardens: Your Traveler Guide to Venice’s Artistic Oasis

Experience the blend of art, culture, and nature with a day at Venice’s Giardini della Biennale. Known simply as the Biennale Gardens, this expansive park is the beating heart of the world-famous Venice Biennale. From historical architectural marvels to innovative installations scattered under lush trees, a visit here promises inspiration, relaxation, and stunning creativity at every turn.

Where Are the Biennale Gardens?

The Biennale Gardens are located at C. Giazzo 1, 30122 Venezia VE. This eastern corner of Venice’s Castello district is where you’ll find rows of heritage trees, tranquil pathways, peaceful benches, and most notably, nearly 30 unique national pavilions.

Official Giardini della Biennale page

Quick Facts at a Glance

Official Address: C. Giazzo 1, 30122 Venezia VE
Size: Approximately 20 hectares (almost 50 acres), offering both green spaces and a network of pavilions
Best for: Fans of art, architecture, photography, nature walks, and quiet moments in the city
Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible main routes and pavilion entries

Opening Times & Entry: Know Before You Go

During the Biennale – which alternates between Art and Architecture exhibitions every year – entry to the Gardens is ticketed and strictly regulated. Here’s what to expect:

Biennale Exhibition Season (April–November)

Exhibition Opening Hours:
- April to September: 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- October to November: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Closed most Mondays: Always check ahead, as most Mondays the site is closed during exhibition months.
Tickets required: You cannot wander the full gardens during this period without a ticket, as 90 percent of the grounds will be gated and accessible only with a valid pass.

Off-Season (No Biennale Exhibition)

An unfenced, public park strip (about 10 percent of the total gardens) remains open and free, perfect for a peaceful stroll or picnic.
The national pavilion areas and main gardens are not accessible without a ticket outside the exhibition schedule.

For up-to-date times and entry details, visit the official Biennale information page:
Biennale Visitor Information

Current Ticket Prices

General “One Access” Ticket: €30 (includes one entry to Giardini and one entry to the Arsenale venue, on the same or different days)
Reductions: Students, those under 26, and seniors can often access tickets ranging €16–€20 (check the official site for current offers and eligibility)
Promotional Bundles: Sometimes combination tickets for additional events (music, dance) are available from €25

Tickets are available directly from the Biennale’s official platform:
Buy Venice Biennale Tickets

A Brief History: Art & Architecture in a Grand Green Setting

Contrary to many travel myths, the Giardini were first landscaped under Napoleon’s rule between 1807 and 1812, as part of his desire to give Venice a new green space. The very first Venice Biennale took place here in 1895, and in the early 1900s, countries began constructing their own pavilions to showcase national talent.

Now, 29 to 30 permanent national pavilions make up most of the site. Some, like the German Pavilion (rebuilt in 1938 in a modernist-classical style) and the Russian Pavilion (built in 1914 in neoclassical revival), are historic landmarks in their own right.

How to Get to the Biennale Gardens

Getting to the Giardini is half the fun, thanks to Venice’s unique transport options and walkable layout.

By Vaporetto Waterbus

Hop on ACTV Line 1, 4.1 or 4.2 (as well as 5.1, 5.2) and get off at Giardini stop. The garden entrance is mere steps away from the waterbus dock. These lines run frequently and offer scenic views of Venice’s lagoon.

On Foot

It’s about a 2 kilometer walk from St. Mark’s Square to the Gardens, which takes most travelers 20 to 25 minutes at a comfortable pace. On the way, you’ll discover quiet calle (Venetian alleyways), picturesque bridges, and glimpses of the lagoon.
Walking is safe, signposted, and a true Venetian experience.

Exploring the Biennale Gardens: What Awaits You

The Layout: Pavilions, Paths, and Peaceful Retreats

The gardens divide into two major zones:

National Pavilion Area: Each nation’s pavilion is a work of architecture designed to reflect its culture and artistic ambitions. The exhibitions inside rotate each time Biennale alternates between Art and Architecture editions.
The Public Green Space: Outside exhibition periods, enjoy tranquil walks among mature trees and manicured lawns in the unfenced public zone: perfect for people-watching, sketching, or enjoying a picnic.

Highlights of the National Pavilions

Marvel at nearly 30 national pavilions; each is unique in design and content. Notables include:

Germany: Striking modernist lines and powerful installations.
Russia: Neo-classical grandeur, standing as a testament to pre-war architecture.
Other nations like Japan, France, Britain, and Brazil showcase their own architectural style and curatorial vision, ensuring every visit feels global and always fresh.

Every Biennale cycle brings new artists, architects, themes, and multimedia works, so there’s always a surprise!

What to See and Do: Tips for Your Visit

Start at the Central Pavilion: This is the main launch point for each Biennale, hosting the central curated show that sets the theme and tone.
Enjoy Interactive Art: Many installations aren’t just to be looked at; they invite participation or reflection within their green settings.
Go Slow and Soak It In: Allocate at least a half-day. Art lovers and creative souls may want to spend a full day exploring every corner.
Have a Break: There are several garden cafés offering drinks, snacks, and simple Venetian meals, the perfect spot to recharge.
Breathe: Even in peak Biennale months, the Gardens (nearly 50 acres!) rarely feel crowded. Find your own bench, sit by a sculpture, and enjoy people-watching amid international visitors.

When Should You Visit?

Spring and Early Fall: See blooming flowers, enjoy milder weather, and skip the summer vacation crowds.
During Biennale: (April to November, alternate years for Art and Architecture) the site comes alive with creativity, workshops, and special events. Check the official website calendar for specific dates.
Off-Season: If you prefer solitude and greenery to crowds and global buzz, try the winter months only the public park area is open, but you’ll have much of the space to yourself.

What Makes the Biennale Gardens Special?

It’s this rare harmony between art, architecture, and nature. Nowhere else can you stroll among centuries-old trees and stumble on cutting-edge creativity by the most exciting names in global culture. Whether you’re coming for the Biennale event itself or just looking to escape the busy tourist zones of central Venice, Giardini della Biennale rewards every visitor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are the Gardens free to visit?
Outside the Biennale exhibition season, the public park strip can be visited for free. However, when the exhibition is on (roughly April–November), all main pavilion zones and most gardens are ticketed.
Can I buy tickets at the entrance?
Yes, but lines can be long on popular Biennale days. It’s best to buy tickets online in advance for quicker entry.
Are there facilities for families and those with mobility needs?
Yes, the main paths are paved, wheelchair accessible, and there are cafés and restrooms within the grounds.

Plan Your Visit: Smart Tips

Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll do a lot of walking, both to and within the gardens!
Stay hydrated: Bring water, especially in summer: vending machines and cafés are conveniently located inside.
Pace yourself: There’s so much to see: contemporary art, historical architecture, green corners for quiet rest… Give yourself time to explore.
Photo ops: Respect the art, but don’t forget your camera. Many installations are designed to be photographed and shared. The magical light through the garden canopy is an extra treat for photographers.

Booking Your Experience

Ready to discover the world’s most creative art park? Secure your ticket and get all the visitor details directly from the organizer’s official site:
https://www.labiennale.org/en/tickets

To learn more about the Giardini’s unique history, architecture and the full scope of exhibitions, visit the official venue page:
https://www.labiennale.org/en/venues/giardini-della-biennale

Whether you’re a lifelong art lover, a student, or just looking to experience a truly Venetian green oasis, the Giardini della Biennale is not to be missed. Buy your ticket, plan your walk or vaporetto journey, and immerse yourself in a space where art, architecture, and nature come together in the heart of Venice.

Discover Venice on Foot

Why our Venice guide works

Our mission is simple: help you explore Venice in a smart, walkable way. Every guide includes time‑boxed routes, an interactive map, and practical advice on tickets, transport, safety, and food so you can discover Venice without overwhelm.

✔️ Clear, realistic Venice itineraries built by locals

✔️ Insider tips to beat crowds and avoid tourist traps

✔️ On‑route cafés, trattorie, gelato, and viewpoints

✔️ Offline‑friendly PDFs + map pins for your phone

FAQs

Will the itineraries work offline?

Yes. The PDFs are phone‑friendly and the map pins can be saved offline (instructions included).

Do you update opening hours and links?

We maintain 2025 updates and push changes to your download link whenever things change.

Are tickets included?

No, attraction tickets, transport, and meals are not included. We provide direct links and advice on what to book.

Refunds for digital downloads?

All sales are final. If you have trouble accessing files or the map, contact us and we’ll help.

Free Venice planning checklist (PDF)

Join 10k+ travelers planning to explore Venice smarter

We’ll email you the checklist to save on your phone.