Castles & palaces
Ca' Vendramin Calergi
What it is
Ca' Vendramin Calergi is a Renaissance palace on the Grand Canal in Cannaregio, built between 1481 and 1509 for the Loredan family. Its white facade, with round-arched windows and classical detailing, is a well-known example of early Venetian Renaissance architecture along the canal. The building is also known as the place where composer Richard Wagner died in 1883. Today it houses Venice's municipal casino, so the interior is generally seen by visitors in that context rather than as a museum.
Getting there
From central Venice (San Marco), the palace is best reached by vaporetto along the Grand Canal, roughly 20-25 minutes depending on the line and stops. It has its own vaporetto stop, San Marcuola, a short walk from the entrance. Walking from San Marco takes closer to 30-40 minutes through the narrow calli, and is more about the route than a direct path.
Time to allow
Seeing the exterior from the canal or a nearby bridge takes only a few minutes. If you go inside for the casino, allow at least an hour, more if you plan to spend time at the gaming tables.
When to go
The facade is easiest to appreciate from the water, so a vaporetto ride or a gondola/traghetto crossing at any time of day works well; the golden evening light is popular with photographers. The Grand Canal stretch here is busy with boat traffic much of the day, though less crowded with pedestrians than the San Marco or Rialto areas.
Combine with
The palace sits close to several other Cannaregio sights: Fondaco dei Turchi (0.1km) and Ca' Pesaro (0.2km) are both a short walk away along or near the Grand Canal, making it easy to see all three together. The Venetian Ghetto (0.4km) and the wider Cannaregio district (0.5km) are also within easy reach for a longer walk through this quieter part of the city.
Updated September 20, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors
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