Palazzo Grassi is a neoclassical palace on the Grand Canal in Venice, now used for exhibitions of contemporary art. Its changing shows make use of the historic rooms, where you can also look for the building’s architectural details and a large mosaic in the entrance hall. Exhibitions have included 20th-century black-and-white photography and work by contemporary artists. The palace has ramps and an elevator, and its ticket also grants access to Punta della Dogana, the foundation’s other Venice exhibition venue. Check the current exhibition before you go.
A palace turned exhibition space
Palazzo Grassi stands on the Grand Canal between Palazzo Moro Lin and Campo San Samuele. Built in 1772 for the Grassi family, it is a Venetian Classical-style palace. Today, its rooms hold changing exhibitions from the Pinault Collection, with contemporary art shown inside the historic building.
The exhibitions change, so the works on view depend on when you visit. Past shows have included black-and-white photographs spanning the early 1900s to around the 1970s, as well as exhibitions of contemporary artists. Check the current programme before setting out if you have a particular show in mind.
Details inside the palace
The exhibition rooms are part of the visit. Look closely at the palace interior as you move between displays, including the large mosaic in the entrance hall. The rooms are arranged for each exhibition, so the art and the historic setting meet in different ways from one show to the next.
Ramps and an elevator are available, along with accessible restrooms. If you rely on the elevator, confirm that it is operating before your visit: an outage can limit access to exhibition areas on upper floors. The building also has a coat check.
Using your ticket at Punta della Dogana
A Palazzo Grassi ticket also includes access to Punta della Dogana, the foundation’s second Venice venue. The former customs house stands at the tip of Dorsoduro, near Santa Maria della Salute. Visiting both gives you two exhibition settings and more of the current programme to explore.
Allow time to travel between the venues and see the exhibitions at your own pace. Weekdays tend to be quieter than weekends, and booking ahead can help you avoid a queue at the entrance.
Perguntas frequentes
Does a Palazzo Grassi ticket include Punta della Dogana?
Yes. The ticket also gives access to the foundation’s other Venice venue, Punta della Dogana.
What kind of art is shown at Palazzo Grassi?
The palace hosts changing exhibitions of contemporary art. Past shows have included 20th-century black-and-white photography.
Is Palazzo Grassi accessible?
Ramps, an elevator and accessible restrooms are available. If you need the elevator, check that it is operating before your visit, since an outage can restrict access to upper-floor exhibitions.
Should I book Palazzo Grassi tickets in advance?
Advance booking is recommended and can help you avoid a queue. Weekdays are generally quieter than weekends.
