Venice is world-famous for its breathtaking canals, historic architecture, and romantic gondola rides. However, hidden within the city’s labyrinthine alleys lies one of Europe’s most unique football stadiums: Stadio Pier Luigi Penzo. As the home of Venezia FC, this secretive stadium has gained international attention since the club’s promotion to Serie A, bringing some of Italy’s biggest teams to this floating city in an experience unlike any other.
Unlike conventional stadiums accessible by highways and public transit, Stadio Penzo is entirely surrounded by water. Fans don’t arrive by cars or buses but instead take a Vaporetto, the city’s signature water taxi, making the journey to each match an adventure of its own.
This unique approach to stadium access creates a pre-game atmosphere unlike any other, where locals, artisans, and students share a scenic boat ride before heading into the stadium. The anticipation builds as the Vaporetto approaches the dock, with chants echoing over the canals, setting the stage for an unforgettable matchday experience.
With over 113 years of history, Stadio Penzo is one of the oldest and smallest stadiums in Serie A, holding just 11,000 spectators. Despite its size, it delivers an intensely passionate atmosphere that rivals larger venues.
Venezia FC’s die-hard supporters create a festival-like ambiance, waving their orange, green, and black team flags while chanting throughout the game. The proximity of the stands to the pitch immerses fans in every moment, making the energy almost tangible. This intimate connection between players and fans transforms each match into a deeply personal and electrifying event.
Watching a match at Stadio Penzo is more than just a sporting even it’s an opportunity to experience a different side of Venice, away from the usual tourist hotspots. Visitors can spend the day wandering through narrow alleys, exploring artisan shops selling hand-crafted Murano glass, and then head to the stadium for an evening of thrilling football action.
Additionally, a match ticket comes with a bonus perk it waives the city’s tourist entry fee, making it a budget-friendly way to enjoy both the game and Venice’s rich history. Whether a football fan or a casual visitor, this experience seamlessly blends sport, culture, and adventure.
Venezia FC’s return to Serie A was no coincidence it was the result of strategic investments by its American ownership group, led by Duncan Niederauer, the former CEO of the New York Stock Exchange.
These investors revamped the club’s image, enlisting a top-tier design agency to create stylish new jerseys, expanding the team’s digital presence, and recruiting international talents from the U.S. and Indonesia. This global approach not only elevated the team’s performance but also made Venezia FC a fashion-forward and internationally recognized brand.
After a match, the celebration doesn’t end at the stadium it spills into the very heart of Venice. Fans embark on a festive walk through the city’s winding streets and bridges, heading towards Via Garibaldi, a street that was once a canal before being transformed by Napoleon.
Along the way, supporters gather at historic bars and cafés, such as Strani, Alle Colonnette, and Bacaro 1813, where they share drinks, relive key moments, and either celebrate a victory or console each other over a loss. The night often ends in Piazza San Marco, Venice’s most famous square, where the combination of football, camaraderie, and breathtaking scenery creates a matchday experience that feels more like a city-wide festival.
Started my career in Automotive Journalism in 2015. Even though I'm a pharmacist, hanging around cars all the time has created a passion for the automotive industry since day 1.