Experience the Best of Modern Art in Venice at Ca’ Pesaro

Ca’ Pesaro is Venice’s dedicated museum of modern and contemporary art, housed in a 17th-century Baroque palace overlooking the Grand Canal. Designed by Baldassarre Longhena—the architect behind Santa Maria della Salute—the building originally reflected the ambitions of the noble Pesaro family. Today, its grand interiors provide an unexpected setting for artworks created centuries after the palace itself.

Inside, visitors can follow the development of modern art from the late 19th century onward. The museum holds important Italian and international works, including paintings, sculptures, photographs, and graphic art that highlight major artistic movements of the 20th century. The collection also reflects Venice’s role in the global art scene thanks to long-standing ties with the Biennale, which contributed several key pieces over time.

Alongside the permanent galleries, Ca’ Pesaro hosts rotating exhibitions that introduce new perspectives and contemporary voices. The combination of historic architecture and evolving displays makes the museum a place where past and present meet naturally, offering a balanced and accessible introduction to modern creativity in Venice.

Learn more during your visit and discover the artworks that shaped modern art.

Opening Hours
Closed on Mondays, and on major holidays including December 25, January 1, and May 1.
April 1 to October 31: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (last admission at 5:00 PM)
November 1 to March 31: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last admission at 4:00 PM)

Best Times
Weekdays: Typically less crowded than weekends, offering a more relaxed visit.
Early morning (opening time): The quietest moment of the day, perfect if you prefer spacious galleries and a slower pace.
Late afternoon: Often calmer than midday, especially outside peak tourist season.

Ca’ Pesaro does not have an on-site café or restaurant, but its central location makes it easy to find food options within a short walk. The surrounding Santa Croce and San Polo districts offer everything from quick snacks to relaxed sit-down meals.

Nearby Options
Local cafés: You’ll find small bakeries and coffee bars around San Stae and Rialto—ideal for a light bite before or after your visit.

Traditional Venetian restaurants: Osterias in the nearby side streets serve cicchetti, fresh seafood, and classic lagoon dishes.

Rialto Market area: A 10-minute walk away, this lively district has casual eateries, wine bars, and gelato shops.

Whether you want something quick or prefer to take your time, there are plenty of places nearby to suit different tastes and budgets.

Ca’ Pesaro is housed in a historic 17th-century palace, but the museum has taken steps to support visitors with mobility and accessibility needs.

Access to the Building
-The main entrance includes step-free routes, though bridge approaches may vary with local street levels.
-Lifts connect different floors of the museum, allowing access to the primary exhibition spaces.
-Wheelchairs can be borrowed on request, subject to availability.

Inside the Galleries
-Most galleries offer wide pathways and are navigable for mobility devices.
-Seating is available in select areas for visitors who wish to pause and rest.

Accessible Arrival
-The San Stae vaporetto stop is the closest waterbus connection and generally offers more comfortable access than narrow alleyways, especially during high tides.
-Visitors arriving on foot should be aware that some bridges may have steps.

Visitor Support

Museum staff are available to provide information or assistance as needed, and visitors with specific requirements are encouraged to reach out in advance to ensure a smooth visit.