The Best Books about Venice

All the Donna Leon books are just a click away.

Which are the best books about Venice Italy?

I am often asked this question, so I put together this list of those books that really capture that special quality that makes Venice so unique.

Whether it be about food, history, or simply a good travel guide, these are superb books.

To add variety, I included a few recommended by site visitors. You, too, can suggest a book or two. Simply click here to begin.

The Brunetti Mysteries by Donna Leon

Donna Leon's captivating series of books set in Venice has garnered a dedicated following, and for good reason. With each installment, she skillfully weaves together compelling mysteries that not only engage readers but also paint a vivid portrait of the enchanting city itself. The books serve as a gateway to the real Venice, allowing readers to immerse themselves in its timeless charm and unravel the intricacies of its culture.

Leon's masterful descriptions breathe life into the pages, transporting readers to the narrow canals and centuries-old buildings that line the city. As the mysteries unfold, so too do the mysteries of Venice itself. Through her words, readers can almost hear the gentle lapping of the canal water against weathered walls, feel the cobblestones beneath their feet, and catch the faint aroma of freshly brewed coffee or the tantalizing scents wafting from local trattorias.

Commissario Brunetti, the series' beloved protagonist, becomes a familiar figure, navigating the labyrinthine streets and uncovering secrets that lie hidden amidst the city's captivating beauty. As readers accompany him on his investigations, they become intimately acquainted with Venice's unique atmosphere, from the hushed whispers of the gondoliers to the vibrant bustle of the bustling markets.

Donna Leon's books offer a remarkable opportunity to experience Venice in a way that goes beyond mere sightseeing. They offer a glimpse into the city's soul, revealing its complex history, its social dynamics, and the underlying tensions that simmer beneath its idyllic surface. Through her vivid storytelling, Leon captures the essence of Venice and imparts a deep sense of place that resonates long after the final page is turned.

For those yearning to wander the Venetian streets, these books serve as a literary escape, allowing readers to embark on a journey of intrigue, discovery, and, ultimately, a profound connection with the city. Whether one is a seasoned traveler or an armchair adventurer, delving into Donna Leon's Venice mysteries is an immersive experience that transports readers to the heart of this remarkable city, offering an enticing glimpse into its many layers of history, culture, and captivating allure.

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Venice An Odyssey

Neil spent a year in Venice on a school exchange program and fell in love with the city. He returns, decades later, to understand Venice better. He documents the changes, looks at the history of Venice without getting caught up in all the myths and legends that so often surround the city, and looks at what the future may hold in store for Venice.

Neil does a thorough job, talking to artists, journalists, politicians, writers, including Donna Leon, and many everyday folk. This truly is a thought-provoking book and is a must-read before you leave for your next trip to Venice.

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Venezia - Food and Dreams

Tessa Kiros has once again bewitched readers with her delectable book, a true culinary masterpiece that showcases her enchanting storytelling and unique perspective on the subject. Following the success of her first book, Twelve, where she delved into the seasonal food and life in Tuscany, Kiros continues to captivate with her dreamy and evocative prose, transporting readers to the heart of her culinary adventures.

In this latest offering, Kiros brings the spotlight to a very special place, infusing it with the bittersweet essence that defines its spirit. Through her vivid descriptions and carefully crafted narratives, she paints a vivid portrait that allows readers to feel as if they are there, immersed in the vibrant surroundings. It's a tantalizing invitation to be a watcher and observer, to soak in the sights, sounds, and scents of the culinary journey she undertakes.

The book is a feast for the senses, not only in its eloquent storytelling but also in its visual presentation. Beautifully illustrated, each page is adorned with images that further enhance the experience, allowing readers to visually savor the dishes and ingredients that Kiros explores. It's a true celebration of food, where every vibrant color, every luscious texture, and every tantalizing aroma is brought to life.

Kiros's passion for her subject shines through every word, every recipe, and every anecdote she shares. She has an innate ability to capture the essence of a place, to distill its culinary heritage and weave it into a tapestry that both educates and inspires. With each turn of the page, readers will find themselves drawn deeper into the gastronomic tapestry she creates, yearning to taste, to experience, and to be a part of the rich culture and traditions she unveils.

Review by Gwenda Canty

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Authentic Flavours of Venice

I have a fair number of our favorite cookbooks featured on the Piedmont site,  but I recently discovered this great book. The chef is apparently well known, but I hadn’t heard of him. However, the book (Francesco's Kitchen: Authentic Flavours of Venice) is a great way to discover the superb cuisine of Venice, and the text and beautifully illustrated photos are a celebration of this enchanting city. It's definitely one of the best books about Venice.

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Francesco's Venice

Discovering the secrets of Venice and what it is that makes this city so incredible is one of the main reasons we started this site. To really understand Venice, though, you need to discover its past, and no book makes this journey more enjoyable than this. Francesco and his family have been a part of Venice's history for centuries, and he weaves together the past and present quite magically. If you love Venice, then this well-written and magnificently illustrated book is a must.

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Read Other Visitors Book Reviews

Click below to see reviews from other visitors to this page...

Venice, an Odyssey, hope, anger and the future of cities by Neal E. Robbins (La Toletta edition 2021) 
I write to bring to your attention a book that I think would be of interest, given the recent attention to Venice. As you will know, the go-to book …

A Thousand Days In Venice 
A Thousand Days in Venice. is a beautiful memoir of a particular period in this American author's life, when she falls in love with a native Venetian. …

Understanding Venice Not rated yet
Despite the cryptic title, this is a book about....well, Venice. Unless you are seeking accommodation or eating places, I suggest this as THE guide to …

Great books about Venice Not rated yet
Miss Garnet's Angel is a lovely story (I've read it twice!) about a spinster teacher who inherits some money and decides to go to Venice for a while. …

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