On the first Sunday of September every year, all of Venice prepares for the most anticipated sporting event in the lagoon: the Regata Storica.
The Regata Storica is the most important event in the lagoon for Venetian rowing competitions, featuring four different races based on the age of the participants and the type of boats. It is a very significant event for the city and its residents, but it can also be a unique experience for visitors who will have the chance to discover a unique and tradition-rich Venice. In fact, before the races, there will be the traditional historic-sporting parade: a procession along the Grand Canal of historic boats with many participants in costume.
In this article, we want to recommend the strategic points from which to observe the Regata, so you don't miss the key stages and the most exciting moments of the races:
1. Giardini and Riva degli Schiavoni
It is the best spot to watch the start of the colorful boats during the races. In front of the Giardini di Sant’Elena, the "spagheto" (starting line cord) will be stretched. From here, you will have a perfect view, allowing you to observe the participants' initial efforts to take the lead in the race.
2. Punta della Dogana and Basilica della Salute
From this position, you will enjoy a privileged view of the boats entering the Grand Canal. You will also be able to see the rowers in historical costumes up close during the traditional parade. The luckiest ones in the front row will surely be able to take a beautiful souvenir photo of the Bissone and the Bucintoro, a reproduction of the sumptuous golden boat that transported the Doge during the time of the Serenissima Republic.
3. Rialto Bridge
From the top of the Rialto Bridge, you can observe the races and the parade from another perspective. Additionally, from above, it will be easier to spot the position of the boats, immediately seeing which ones are ahead of their competitors. In the Rialto area, the turning point (giro del paleto) of the regatta for the youngest participants takes place, so you will be in an excellent position to see the change of course as they head back towards the finish line at Ca’ Foscari.
4. Santa Lucia Railway station
The train station provides a perfect vantage point for observing the historic-sporting parade. In the stretch of the Grand Canal in front of it, the turning point (paleto) is located, signaling the boats' change of direction as they continue towards Ca’ Foscari.
5. S. Marcuola
Near S. Marcuola, you can watch the turning point (giro del paleto) of the women's regatta on two-oared mascareta and the caorline regatta with six oars. The race will head back along the Grand Canal once it reaches the area of Ca’ Vendramin Calergi, the Venice Casino. The best spot to observe the change of direction is from the S. Marcuola pier.
6. S. Tomà
The S. Tomà area is the best place to watch the finish of all the races, as well as the parade. This is undoubtedly the most exciting part of the regatta, where the cheering will be at its most intense. The finish line is located at Ca’ Foscari, near the special grandstand set up for the occasion, called Machina, at the curve of the Grand Canal not far from the pier, which can be a good vantage point. If you prefer to watch the regatta in comfort from the floating grandstand, you can purchase tickets online or at VeneziaUnica sales points, ensuring an excellent spot to witness the competition and the finish line.
7. Ca’ Nigra Lagoon Resort
We then suggest another rather unique location. The Ca’ Nigra Lagoon Resort, just a few steps from Santa Lucia Station, organizes various events for the Regata Storica. From its garden, which directly overlooks the Grand Canal, you will be able to watch the parade of boats in the Corteo.
We recommend that you position yourselves well in advance of the start of the races, as the crowds will be substantial. Now that you are informed about the strategic spots, we wish you a great viewing experience!
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