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Venice Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 23, 2023

Panoramic views showing the charming, historic canals winding through Venice, Italy.

With its iconic canals, picturesque gondolas, and winding streets, it’s no surprise that Venice is considered one of the most romantic cities in the world. But while the city is popular with honeymooners, it’s also a huge destination for cruisers and backpackers too.

It should be obvious as to why.

Venice is beautiful, fun, and full of narrow streets and alleys to get lost in. It’s a magical place unlike any other. There are museums, palaces, historic town squares to explore, and endless gelato to eat.

Unfortunately, the city is also expensive and overtourism has become a real problem. No matter what time of the year, you’re going to encounter crowds. In fact, if you come in the summer, it’s going to be unbearable (and if you come when a cruise ship is docked, it’s even more unbearable!)

But that doesn’t mean you should skip a visit!

You can avoid the crowds if you skirt around the center of the city and head to some of the outer islands like Burano and Morano. Tourists tend to cluster in a few places and are easy to escape.

This travel guide to Venice can help you beat the crowds, save money, and make the most of your time in this famous Italian city!

Table of Contents

  • Things to See and Do
  • Typical Costs
  • Suggested Budget
  • Money-Saving Tips
  • Where to Stay
  • How to Get Around
  • How to Stay Safe
  • Best Places to Book Your Trip
  • Related Blogs on Venice

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Venice

View of the historic Rialto bridge with a man steering a gondola in front, in Venice, Italy.

1. Visit the Basilica San Marco

St. Mark’s Basilica is dedicated to the patron saint of the city and is located in the Piazza San Marco. While there has been a place of worship on this site since 820 CE, the current basilica was built in 1063. It’s filled with amazing 11th-century mosaics, marble-covered walls, statues, and five, gold-covered Byzantine domes. The High Altar also supposedly contains some of St. Mark’s remains. It’s 3 EUR to visit the basilica (or 6 EUR for a skip-the-line ticket). There are also a variety of combined entrance tickets depending on which attractions in the complex you want to visit. The Complete Basilica Ticket, which includes the Basilica, Pala d’Oro (golden altar), Museum, and Loggia Cavalli (terrace with views and other exhibits), costs 20 EUR, which includes skip-the-line entry. You can also do a guided tour after hours when the crowds have left with Walks of Italy for around 100 EUR.

2. Walk across Rialto Bridge

While it’s now one of four bridges that cross the Grand Canal, for centuries, the Rialto Bridge was the only way to get from one side to the other. Originally built as a floating bridge in the 12th century, it was first constructed for easier access to the Rialto Market (hence the bridge’s name). The current iteration of the bridge, completed in 1591, was created by Antonio da Ponte, who beat out Michelangelo for the job. The entire bridge is made of Istrian stone and crosses the Grand Canal at its narrowest point, connecting the San Polo and San Marco districts. To beat the crowds, come at sunrise.

3. Tour the Doge’s Palace

Located in St. Mark’s Square, Doge’s Palace is one of Venice’s main landmarks and was the home of the duke who ruled Venice. The massive building was originally built in the 14th century in the Venetian Gothic style, though it has been renovated, extended, and modified over the centuries. The interior is filled with artwork, gilded ceilings, and an armory. You can also descend into the prisons and cross the famous Bridge of Sighs. Admission is 26 EUR as part of the Combined Museums of San Marco ticket, which includes entrance to the Correr Civic Museum, the National Archaeological Museum, and the monumental rooms of the Marciana National Library.

4. Attend Carnival

Carnival is ten days of masquerade madness every February leading up to Mardi Gras, the day before the start of Lent on Ash Wednesday. The tradition goes back centuries, starting in the 12th century and reaching the height of popularity in the 18th century. The festival was on pause for nearly two centuries, starting in 1798 when the city was under Austrian rule (when masks were banned). It wasn’t until 1979 when Carnival was revived. Today, it is one of the biggest festivals in Italy , with millions of people attending every year. The iconic and diverse masks are a central part of the festivities and every year there is a contest for the most beautiful mask. If you have the funds, you can even pay to attend a traditional masquerade ball! (Book your accommodation early as the city fills up months in advance).

5. Day trip to Burano

Other things to see and do in venice, 1. take a walking tour.

The first thing I do when I arrive in a new city is take a free walking tour. It’s the best way to see the main sights on a budget while connecting with a local guide who can share their insider tips and advice. Venice Free Walking Tour runs regular free tours that cover all the highlights. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!

If you want to invest in your experience and take a more detailed walking tour, my favorite company is Take Walks . They have amazing walking tours and boat tours all around the city. They use expert local guides so you’ll not only have fun but you’ll learn a lot too!

2. Wander the Piazza San Marco

This is the most famous and largest piazza (city square) in Venice. The grand square has long been a popular meeting spot for Venetians and is home to many important city highlights, including the basilica, its bell tower, the Doges Palace, and the National Archaeological Museum. (You can visit all of these sights on a combined Piazza San Marco ticket, which costs 26 EUR). The Piazza is most impressive when approached from the water as you get a full sense of the scale and history of these antiquated buildings.

3. Head to the island of Lido

If you want to escape the city, Lido is a nearby island where people go to relax on the beach. There are lots of picturesque canals here, as well as restaurants, cafes, and bars. Every August, the world of cinema descends on Lido for the Venice Film Festival, the oldest and one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world. Lido is only a 20-minute vaporetto ride (water bus) from Venice. A round-trip ticket costs 10 EUR, or for 13 EUR you can get a round-trip ticket that can be used for the buses on Lido too.

4. Visit Murano Island

Close to Venice, this island is the home of the famous Murano glassblowers, who have been creating intricate glassworks here since 1291. Although Murano is filled with expensive souvenirs (avoid buying anything on the island if you’re on a budget!), you can still have an educational and fun afternoon learning and watching how the glass is blown. The Murano Glass Factory only costs 5 EUR, which includes the glass blowing demonstration and guided tour of the factory. To get to Murano, you can take the ferry for 8 EUR.

5. Wander the Rialto Market

The Rialto Market is Venice’s main market and it has been around for the past 700 years. It’s a huge food market with all kinds of meat, produce, and fish. Come in the morning before the market is flooded with tourists to watch all the hustle and bustle. You’ll find the market northwest of the Rialto Bridge in the district of San Polo.

6. Tour the Peggy Guggenheim Collection

This is the personal art collection of art collector Peggy Guggenheim, located in her former mansion along the banks of the Grand Canal. It is a massive, avant-garde collection of art with works from more than 200 artists. While modern art is not my favorite kind of art, there are countless pieces by surrealists, abstract expressionists, and Italian futurists that make this worth a visit. There’s also an outdoor sculpture garden. Admission is 16 EUR.

7. Climb the Campanile di San Marco

Built in 1912, this tower in Piazza San Marco is a replica of the original Bell Tower of St. Mark (which was built in the 16th century and collapsed in 1902). It said that every last detail of the structure is a match. Standing at almost 100 meters (328 feet) tall, it’s the tallest structure in Venice. The tower was originally constructed for defensive purposes so that watchmen could see ships coming in and out of the city. For 10 EUR, you can climb up through the inner workings and get a panoramic view of the city.

8. Watch the Vogalonga

The Vogalonga is a non-competitive 20-mile marathon rowing event held annually in May. This tradition originated in 1974 as a protest against the increasing amount of powerboats taking over Venice’s waters. Thousands of people from all over the world take part every year, in all different kinds of boats, including gondolas, kayaks, canoes, dragon boats, stand-up paddleboards, and more (some people even swim!). It’s incredible to watch and one of the biggest events of the year.

9. Visit the National Archaeological Museum

This museum was created in 1523 by Italian nobleman and cardinal, Domenico Grimani. Although it’s a small museum, the National Archaeological Museum’s collection of Greek sculptures, Roman busts, funerary stelae, and other relics date back as far as the 1st century BCE. Tickets are 26 EUR as part of the Combined Museums of Piazza San Marco (which includes entrance to the Doge’s Palace, the National Archaeological Museum, and the monumental rooms of the Marciana National Library).

10. Check out the Correr Civic Museum

The Correr Civic Museum includes an expansive collection of art and artifacts showcasing the city’s history, as well as works from the homes of former royals (including Napoleon Bonaparte). You can spend hours here viewing the frescoes, ancient maps, statues, religious paintings, and more. Tickets are 26 EUR as part of the Combined Museums of Piazza San Marco (which includes entrance to the Doge’s Palace, the National Archaeological Museum, and the monumental rooms of the Marciana National Library).

11. Peruse the art at the Galleria dell’Accademia

The Galleria dell’Accademia was established by Napoleon Bonaparte and is home to numerous artistic works from the 14th-18th centuries, including masterpieces from Bellini and Tintoretto. Its most famous piece, however, is Leonardo da Vinci’s small ink drawing titled Vitruvian Man (however, it’s rarely on display due to the fragile and light-sensitive nature of the work). Tickets are 12 EUR.

12. Explore the Jewish Ghetto

The Jewish Ghetto is a neighborhood located in the north-western part of Venice. It’s considered to be the world’s first ghetto, established in 1516 when everyone in the city’s Jewish community was forced to relocate here. They were only allowed out during the day and then were locked up and heavily guarded in the evening. Despite its troubling history, the Jewish Ghetto is now full of restaurants, shops, museums, and synagogues. It’s a lively place to explore but is often overlooked by tourists.

13. Take a food tour

To learn more about the history and culture behind Venice’s cuisine, take a food tour. It’s the best way to eat your way around the city sampling the best eats Venice has to offer while learning what makes the cuisine unique. Devour Tours runs in-depth food tours led by expert local guides that will introduce you to the food culture and its history. If you’re a foodie like me who wants to learn more about the history and culture behind each dish, these tours are for you! Tours start at 89 EUR.

  For more information on other cities in Italy, check out these guides:

  • Cinque Terre Travel Guide
  • Florence Travel Guide
  • Milan Travel Guide
  • Naples Travel Guide
  • Pisa Travel Guide
  • Rome Travel Guide
  • Sorrento Travel Guide

Venice Travel Costs

Closeup on colorful, historic homes lining a canal in Venice, Italy.

Hostel prices – A dorm bed in a hostel usually costs 27-45 EUR per night for a 4-6-bed dorm in peak season and 22-30 EUR per night off-peak. Private rooms cost between 75-150 EUR per night in peak season and 60-85 EUR in the off-season. Free Wi-Fi is standard and several hostels have kitchens or a bar/cafe on the premises. None of the hostels in Venice currently offer free breakfast.

For those traveling with a tent, camping outside the city costs 15-30 EUR per night for a basic pitch without electricity. There are also small lodges and cabins for 30-50 EUR.

Budget hotel prices – A room in a two-star budget hotel in Venice costs 75-125 EUR per night in peak season and 50-65 in the off-season. Free Wi-Fi is included and some also include free breakfast.

On the main island, Airbnb has private rooms starting from 60-80 EUR per night. Entire apartments go for closer to 125-150 EUR per night. Expect to pay double that price if you don’t book early.

Average cost of food – Italian cuisine is beloved around the world, though every region in Italy offers its own distinct flavor. Tomatoes, pasta, olives, and olive oil form the backbone of most meals, with meat and fish and various cheeses rounding out the menu.

In Venice, seafood is an important staple, with popular traditional dishes being bigoli in salsa (pasta in anchovy sauce), risotto al nero di seppia (risotto with cuttlefish ink), and fried sardines.

Overall, eating in Venice is really expensive. It’s hard to get a cheap meal in the city. If you do want to eat out, it’s better to go out for lunch rather than dinner since lunch menus are often around 15-20 EUR.

If you want to splash out, a mid-range meal with drinks and an appetizer costs 35-50 EUR. A set, 4-course meal is 65-70+ EUR.

Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 8.50 EUR for a combo meal. Sandwiches are usually just 3-7 EUR, while pizza is 5-8 EUR for a small and 12-15 EUR for a large.

Beer is 4-5 EUR, a glass of wine is 3-4 EUR, and cocktails start at 7-9 EUR. A latte/cappuccino is closer to 2 EUR while bottled water is 1 EUR.

If you plan on cooking your own food, a week’s worth of groceries costs around 50-60 EUR. This gets you basic staples like rice, pasta, produce, and some meat or seafood.

Backpacking Venice Suggested Budgets

On a backpacking budget of 60 EUR per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, cook all of your meals, limit your drinking, take public transportation to get around, and do mostly free activities like taking free tours and wandering the markets. If you plan on drinking, add 5-10 EUR to your daily budget.

On a mid-range budget of 145 EUR per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb or private hostel room, eat out for most meals, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional water taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like day-tripping to the nearby islands and touring the museums and galleries.

On a “luxury” budget of 265 EUR or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink as much as you want, take more taxis, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need per day. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day, who knows!). We just want to give you a general idea of how to budget your money. Prices are in EUR.

Venice Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

It doesn’t matter what time of year you visit, Venice is going to be expensive. That said, here some ways to you can lower your expenses when you visit Venice:

  • Don’t eat at Piazza San Marco – This is the area with the most tourists, making it much more expensive. Avoid eating here at all costs, no matter how tempting the cafe patios might be.
  • Cook your food – Food is one of the biggest costs in the city so if you’re on a budget it’s a good idea to cook your own meals. It’s not fancy but you’ll save a ton!
  • Walk around and get lost – Venice is so beautiful that it’s a thrill just strolling through the city seeing the old building, churches, artists, and, best of all, get a bit of people-watching in.
  • Use discount vaporetto tickets – Get a day pass (or multi-day pass) for the water bus if you plan on traveling around the city a lot. It can save you money after just a few trips.
  • Get a combined museum pass – There are a couple of main options for combined museum passes: St. Mark’s Square Museum Pass (which costs 26 EUR for admission to all the attractions in St. Marks Square) or the Venice Museum Pass (which costs 36 EUR for admission to the St. Marks’ Square museums as well as 9 other museums, including the Murano Glass Museum).
  • Get the Venezia Unica Pass – If you are going to do lots of sightseeing, this pass gives you discounts to the top museums, tours, and attractions. It is priced to save you money when compared to buying separate tickets. You go online and pick out what you want to see ahead of time. The price varies depending on what you want to see but you’ll save a lot.
  • Buy your own booze – You can buy a great bottle of wine for under 10 EUR at the store. Getting your own bottle is a much more economical way to drink. Sit in one of the squares, have a glass of wine, and watch the world go by.
  • Stay with a local – Accommodation is very expensive in Venice. Try using Couchsurfing to stay with locals for free and make a new friend to show you around this amazing city.
  • Go on a free walking tour – This is the best way to learn about the city on a budget. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!
  • Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Venice

Finding an affordable place to stay in Venice is challenging, but not impossible. My recommended places to stay in Venice are:

  • Generator Venice
  • Anda Venice (10% off, a free welcome drink, and free city map if you’re a member of HostelPass )
  • Ostello S. Fosca – CPU Venice Hostels
  • Camping Serenissima

How to Get Around Venice

Man steering a gondola through a canal in Venice, Italy

Venice is a pedestrian city. Unless you’re taking water taxis or floating buses, you’ll be walking everywhere.

Vaporetto – A vaporetto is a floating “bus” that can get you just about everywhere you need to go. They’re not cheap, with one-way tickets costing 7.50 EUR. Tickets are valid for 75 minutes. You can get a 24-hour pass for 20 EUR, a 48-hour pass for 30 EUR, a 72-hour pass for 40 EUR, or a 7-day pass for 60 EUR.

If you’re traveling to Murano, Torcello, or Lido, you’ll be on the same vaporetto system but on a larger boat known as motonave . The prices are the same.

When to Go to Venice

Venice is at its peak busyness in the summer. Prices skyrocket and the crowds are intense. Temperatures hover around 18-28°C (66-83°F) from June through August. If possible, I’d avoid visiting during this time as the city is bursting with cruisers and the crowds are massive.

Spring is a beautiful time to visit since temperatures are more manageable, usually between 17-22°C (63-72°F), and the city is not overly crowded.

Tourism also eases off in the fall and winter, and temperatures are cooler, ranging from 4-12°C (44-55°F). However, this is also known as the acqua alta (“high water”) period, where flooding in the streets can occur.

In February, Carnevale takes over the city. It’s a great time, but expect chaos and inflated prices.

Overall, you’re going to face crowds whenever you go, but if you can avoid peak summer you’ll find the city pleasant to visit.

How to Stay Safe in Venice

Venice is a very safe place to backpack and travel. As with most of Italy’s cities, Venice’s biggest safety risk is petty theft and pickpocketing. This is especially true in crowded tourist areas and on public transportation, so keep a close eye on your belongings and never flash your valuables when out and about.

Scams here are rare, but if you’re worried about getting ripped off, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.)

If you come during autumn or the winter, you may be at risk for acqua alta (“high water”). Flooding is a common occurrence due to rising ocean levels. Choose accommodations closer to the upper part of town, near Piazzale Roma or the rail station.

If you experience an emergency, dial 113 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Venice Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

  • Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
  • Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
  • Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
  • HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
  • Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
  • The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
  • Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
  • FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
  • SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
  • LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
  • Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
  • Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
  • Walks of Italy – This walking tour company provides inside access to attractions and places you can’t get elsewhere. Their guides rock and they have some of the best and most insightful tours in all of Italy.
  • BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

Venice Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Italy and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hotels in Milan

The 6 Best Hotels in Milan

The Best Walking Tours in Florence

The Best Walking Tours in Florence

The 8 Best Hotels in Rome

The 8 Best Hotels in Rome

The Best Walking Tours in Milan

The Best Walking Tours in Milan

The Best Walking Tours in Venice

The Best Walking Tours in Venice

The 4 Best Hostels in Florence Worth Staying At

The 4 Best Hostels in Florence Worth Staying At

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Proving Travel is Possible with a Full-Time 9-5

2 Days in Venice: Inspiration For Your Venice Itinerary

last Updated: June 25, 2020 italy venice

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

Headed to Italy for the weekend and looking for the best things to do during your 2 days in Venice? Hoping to fill your Venice itinerary with the city’s hot spots and absolute must-eats? Well , you’re in luck, my gelato-loving friends, this post was written just for you!

Venice is one of those cities that’s on everyone’s bucket list, and rightfully so. The famous city on the water has been a popular tourist destination for centuries, and from the looks of it, visitors just keep on coming. The city has even thought about limiting the number of us out-of-towners out of sheer desperation to preserve their city.  

Headed to Italy for the weekend and looking for the best things to do during your 2 days in Venice? Hoping to fill your Venice itinerary with the city’s hot spots and absolute must-eats? Well, you’re in luck, my gelato-loving friends, this post was written just for you!

And I’m part of the problem – I visited twice in one summer a few years ago, whoops! Can you blame me?! Travelers from all around the globe come to Venice every year to see the beauty for themselves, and beautiful it is. Pictures just don’t do Venice justice. They really don’t. And 2 days in Venice is the perfect amount of time to see what this city’s all about. Go to Rome afterwards, it’s just marvelous .

The history of Venice as one of the greatest naval powers of the world is reflected in the intricate details of the palazzo’s, the elegant bridges, and grand churches. Venice is like a beautiful maze where around every corner lies another picturesque square, street, or canal. You truly have to see it for yourself (just don’t forget your camera). Once you’re there and standing in the middle of it all, you’ll probably want to stay forever.

Headed to Italy for the weekend and looking for the best things to do during your 2 days in Venice? Hoping to fill your Venice itinerary with the city’s hot spots and absolute must-eats? Well, you’re in luck, my gelato-loving friends, this post was written just for you!

And trust me- there’s so many things to see and do that you’ll have no trouble filling your 2-day Venice itinerary! Plus, it’s Italy after all, so if all else fails, you can always EAT ’til your hearts content. But really, there’s tons of spectacular things to do in Venice, so be sure to do more than stuff your face (but no judgments here… I’m no stranger to mountain high gelatos and Aperol Spritzes). :p

It’s been a few years since I visited the city (whoa, was 2016 really that long ago ?), and let’s face it, I only spent 2 days in Venice each time. Thankfully for all of us (I want to go back), I’ve enlisted help from fellow blogger and Venice-lover Sophie from Just Heading Out . She’s visited the city a whole handful of times, and much more recently than myself! Below, she shares with us not only all her top things to do in Venice, but an entire Venice travel blog, including all the basics you need to know before visiting this beautiful little city.

Venice Pre-Travel Guide:

Venice is so popular that its busy year round, with the peak tourist times being July and August. Is this the best time to visit? If you like crazy crowds and sweltering heat, then go for it! However, coincidentally (or not), there are virtually no Italians to be found in Venice in August (( wonder why). For a slightly more relaxing experience, head to the city in late autumn or early spring. The area will still be quite busy, but not as ridiculous as those prime-time summer months (and the weather will be more conducive for sightseeing).

My honest opinion? Keep your visits to the city short and sweet – there are other worthy spots in Italy you won’t want to miss if you’re traveling long and far to Europe. You may be wondering if 2 days in Venice is enough, and thankfully, if you plan your trip right, you can see all the top highlights and more in a short time span. Consider 3 days in Venice if you want to visit the surrounding islands of Burano and/or Murano (highly recommended; read more below).

Headed to Italy for the weekend and looking for the best things to do during your 2 days in Venice? Hoping to fill your Venice itinerary with the city’s hot spots and absolute must-eats? Well, you’re in luck, my gelato-loving friends, this post was written just for you!

Getting around

Getting to Venice is easy enough. You can fly into Marco Polo airport and take the bus from there to the city. However, many visitors choose to come by train from elsewhere in Italy, in which case you will have to transfer from Venezia Mestre to Venezia Santa Lucia station. On the western edge of the island, you’ll find both the train and bus stations, as well as the cities big parking structure (for those coming by car). It’s very important to note that cars and other motorized vehicles are banned within Venice itself – they wouldn’t be much use in the narrow streets anyways. Say goodbye to your typical modes of transport during your 2 days in Venice!

Headed to Italy for the weekend and looking for the best things to do during your 2 days in Venice? Hoping to fill your Venice itinerary with the city’s hot spots and absolute must-eats? Well, you’re in luck, my gelato-loving friends, this post was written just for you!

All transportation in Venice is done by water, through water taxis, gondolas, and Vaporettos. How fun! Note that all of these are much more expensive than regular public transportation. However, if you’re planning to stay on the main island of Venice, you can get around everywhere on foot.

venice travel blog 2022

If you want to visit other islands, such as Giudecca, Murano, and/or Burano, you will need to take the Vaporetto. Tickets for these “waterbuses” cost €7,50 for a single fare and €20 for a day pass. With the Venice Card and Rolling Venice Card, you can get a discount on a multiday pass, but that is only worth it if you plan to spend more than 2 days in Venice or if you are staying on Giudecca.

Important Things to Pack

Venice can get very hot during the summer and cold during the winter. If you plan to brave the heat and crowds in summer, be sure to pack a scarf to cover your shoulders and/or knees before going into churches. And sunscreen and a hat can never hurt either.

For winter visits, take a warm, waterproof jacket. Venice is prone to rain and high water in fall and spring, so take rain boots and a waterproof jacket for any autumn visits. At any time of year, take comfortable shoes as you will be doing a lot of walking and the streets in Venice are not suited to heels (leave those fancy things at home!)

venice travel blog 2022

Unfortunately, mass tourism also attracts pickpockets. Be careful with your belongings and keep valuables in your front pockets, a secure cross body bag, or a money belt. Since this Venice itinerary includes a bunch of top tourist sites, be sure to be extra careful at all times!

Where to stay during your 2 days in Venice

Accommodation in Venice is notoriously expensive. The city is small with very strict building laws, so there are only a few big hotels. You can choose to stay on the islands (where the actual city of Venice is located), or the nearby mainland.

Staying in Venice:  You’ll be near all the action, but expect lots of crowds all times of day (in the busy summer season of course).

Recommended hotels: Hilton Molino Stucky Venice (sophisticated rooms in a restored flour mill), JW Marriott Venice Resort & Spa (posh spa getaway), Rialto Unique Venice (traditional Venetian-style rooms), and Il Veliero Romantico (as romantic as it gets).

Staying on the Mainland:   The mainland, around Venice Mestre, is where you will find the most affordable accommodation. It’s quite far from charming part of the municipality, but you’re only a short bus, train, or car ride away from Venice. Most people want to be in the center of Venice, making accommodation there the most expensive, but since the city isn’t that big, there is no harm in looking for a place in the more affordable Castello neighborhood or on nearby Giudecca Island (a 10 minute ferry ride away to lively San Marco Piazza).

AirBnB: One of the biggest problems facing Venice today is the renting of apartments and houses on Airbnb, which has driven locals and students to move to the mainland. To respect locals, I’d opt out of using AirBnB for accommodation. 

Helpful Italian Phrases

Italian is a beautiful and melodic language, but it often gets butchered by foreigners. Think Brad Pitt in Inglorious Bastards (ha!) Venice is touristic enough that everyone speaks at least a little English, so you’ll be able to get by without speaking a word of Italian. If you do want to impress the locals, these phrases may come in handy:

  • Buongiorno/Buonasera – Good day/ Good evening
  • Grazie (mille) – Thank you (very much)
  • Prego – You’re welcome
  • Dov’é …? – Where is …?
  • Quanto costa? – How much is it?
  • Vorrei un/una … – I would like a … (when ordering food or drinks)
  • Per favore – Please
  • Parla Inglese? – Do you speak English?
  • Non parlo Italiano – I don’t speak Italian.

So without further ado, since you ultimately came here wondering what to do in Venice, keep on reading! All the Venice top attractions, coming right up!

Things to add to your 2-Day Venice Itinerary:

1. join the venice free walking tour.

The best way to learn more about the fascinating history of Venice is by joining the Venice Free Walking Tour. This company offers several different walking tours that provide context to all the beauty you’re seeing. They are dedicated to slow tourism, as a counter movement to the mass tourism that’s making Venice unlivable for locals. So by booking a tour with them, you’re guaranteed a good and sustainable tour.

venice travel blog 2022

The Free Walking Tour also shows you a different side of Venice, the hidden gems instead of the big tourist attractions. This is one of the best things to do in Venice on your first day, so that you get a feeling for the city and tips from the guides for the rest of your stay.

2. Visit the Piazza San Marco

One of those big tourist attractions is the Piazza San Marco, the most famous square of Venice, and a must-do on any Venice itinerary. During the day, the Piazza is crowded with tourists, street vendors, and pickpockets. For a quieter experience, visit the square early in the morning or late at night. It is equally beautiful then and you might even be able to get a picture without other people in it.

venice travel blog 2022

Bars and restaurants along the Piazza are notorious tourist traps. Do not sit down here for food or a drink. Not only are you paying dearly for subpar quality, but they also charge extra for the music that’s played on the square. A coffee here might cost you as much as €15!

3. Step inside the Basilica di San Marco

The crowning jewel of the Piazza San Marco is the stunning Basilica San Marco. This incredibly ornate cathedral was built in 1063. The church is absolutely stunning with colorful details and glittering gold. The inside is beautiful as well, and the entrance is free. You will have to wait in line for a quick glimpse inside, as it’s an absolute must see in Venice and almost everyone knows this. The line for the Basilica can take up to a few hours in the burning Italian sun. Don’t take any chances and get in line around 9 am, half an hour before the church opens.

However, if you don’t feel like wasting your precious time in Venice snagging a ticket (I don’t blame you), I highly encourage you to go once everyone has left. And yes, on this tour , you can head inside St. Mark’s Basilica after hours (the guard even has to unlock the door)! You’ll have all the gold mosaics, the incredible Pala d’Oro, and the crypt all to yourself and the others (max 15) from your local historian guide. Read rave reviews and book tickets here.

venice travel blog 2022

Note that you are not allowed to take pictures (hence why I’m showing you the outside architecture instead), shoulders and knees need to be covered, and you cannot take backpacks or luggage inside. Instead, you can leave it at the luggage deposit around the corner.

4. Marvel at the art in Palazzo Ducale (Doge’s Palace)

The other important building in the Piazza San Marco is the Palazzo Ducale. The Doge’s Palace is the palace of the former ruler of Venice. Aside from the history of the palace, it is also filled with outstanding art.

venice travel blog 2022

One way way to visit the palace is by booking your ticket online so you won’t have to wait as long to get in. There is also an audio guide available. Some parts of the palace can only be visited as part of a guided tour called the “Secret Itineraries Tour.” A ticket for the tour doubles as a regular entry ticket and costs the same.

Another option is to book a tour which includes both skip-the-line tickets along with a guide , ensuring you don’t miss out on learning the stories of the rise and fall of the Venetian Empire. Psst – with this ticket , you’ll also gain skip-the-line entrance to the opulent St. Mark’s Basilica as well. Two tickets with one booking? Can’t beat that. Read reviews (over 1500 of them!) and book tickets here.

5. Cross the Ponte Rialto

venice travel blog 2022

Aside from the Piazza San Marco, the most popular thing to do in Venice is to walk across the Ponte Rialto. This is one of the two bridges crossing the Canal Grande. It is an elegant structure, and from atop the bridge, you have a beautiful view of the canal. It gets very crowded during the day here as well, but luckily the bridge is even more romantic (and quieter) when it’s lit up at night.

6. Take a boat ride to Murano & Burano

Venice is built in a lagoon with several small islands around it. The two most famous are arguably Murano and Burano. Both are a popular day trip from Venice. Murano is famous for the handblown artisanal glass that’s been produced on the island for centuries. You can visit some of the glass factories and buy the beautifully crafted art and jewelry all around the island. A bit further lies Burano. The big appeal of this tiny island is the pretty different colored houses. Historically Burano is also home to expertly handcrafted lace, which you can still buy on the island. Another absolute must-do on any Venice itinerary, especially if you love color like me!

venice travel blog 2022

You can easily reach Murano and Burano with the public Vaporetto. If you are planning to visit Murano and Burano in one day, get a day ticket, so you can hop on and off as often as you like for a 24 hour period.

7. Take a romantic Gondola ride

Out of all the things to do in Venice , a gondola ride is probably what people associate with the city the most. These typical long black boats have become a symbol for the city. Although they are still on of the most popular things to do in Venice, it is not quite as romantic as it once was. The gondola drivers are not all attractive young men, and they certainly don’t sing. Gondola rides have standardized prices at 80 euro’s for half an hour during the day and 100 euro at night.

Headed to Italy for the weekend and looking for the best things to do during your 2 days in Venice? Hoping to fill your Venice itinerary with the city’s hot spots and absolute must-eats? Well, you’re in luck, my gelato-loving friends, this post was written just for you!

If you want a boat to yourself, don’t book ahead through an agency, but at one of the stops along the canal. Otherwise, you will likely be sharing your boat with another couple. For a budget gondola experience, you can cross the Canal Grande in a traghetto. These smaller, less ornate boats serve as ferries and cost only 2 euro per 3 minute trip across the canal.

8. Cross the water to Giudecca

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Giudecca is the big island just south of Venice. There is no bridge connecting the two, so to visit, you have to take the Vaporetto. Giudecca is slightly less gentrified than the main island, and the residents are trying very hard to resist the mass tourism from spreading there. The boardwalk that runs along the north of Giudecca offers a stunning view of Venice, including the Piazza San Marco. Giudecca is also home to the Chiesa del Redentore, a beautiful church built after the last plague outbreak in Venice.

9. Eat local dishes

Italian cuisine is incredibly diverse, and every region has their own specialty. For this reason, people say you shouldn’t order pizza in Venice. Of course, you can get a decent pizza in Venice, but it isn’t traditional. Instead, opt for seafood and the local finger food: chicette. In the afternoon, relax with an Aperol Spritz and a few of these delicious little sandwiches, similar to Spanish tapas.

Headed to Italy for the weekend and looking for the best things to do during your 2 days in Venice? Hoping to fill your Venice itinerary with the city’s hot spots and absolute must-eats? Well, you’re in luck, my gelato-loving friends, this post was written just for you!

You can also find great gelato in Venice, especially at Grom, who serve authentic traditional artisanal ice cream.

10. Shop your heart out

Shopping in Venice is a dream, that’s why it’s a good idea to carve out some time on your Venice itinerary to do so. There are high-end designer shops everywhere as well as cute local boutiques. Take a break from sightseeing and all the cultural things to do in Venice to buy a few amazing souvenirs, like a mask for Carnevale!

Headed to Italy for the weekend and looking for the best things to do during your 2 days in Venice? Hoping to fill your Venice itinerary with the city’s hot spots and absolute must-eats? Well, you’re in luck, my gelato-loving friends, this post was written just for you!

Avoid the gaudy, overpriced souvenir shops and buy some local traditional products to take home instead. There are shops selling excellent leather good everywhere and beautiful traditional marbled paper products.

11. Operate the inventions of Leonardo da Vinci

The Muso Leonardo da Vinci is a small museum in a former church, perfect if you are looking for a short activity. It is dedicated to the life, art, and work of the Renaissance genius. You can find information about his life, and many of his inventions have been rebuilt so that you can see and operate them. This is certainly one the most unique things to do in Venice and great for a rainy day.

12. Relax at the beach on Lido

Although Venice is built on the water, there are no beaches or places to swim. Lido is the closest beach, and once the temperatures rise, this is where you’ll find the locals lounging on the beach. You can get to Lido by Vaporetto, and it’s the perfect place for a relaxing break from the crowds in Venice.

13. Get lost in Castello

Another good place to hide from the mass tourism is the Castello neighborhood. This neighborhood starts to the east of Piazza San Marco, but most tourists don’t bother venturing out. A shame, because Castello has plenty of charm of its own.

Headed to Italy for the weekend and looking for the best things to do during your 2 days in Venice? Hoping to fill your Venice itinerary with the city’s hot spots and absolute must-eats? Well, you’re in luck, my gelato-loving friends, this post was written just for you!

Cozy little streets, traditional restaurants, and museums, getting lost in Castello means discovering the real Venice. This is the most authentic part of Venice, where the few locals that are left live. Castello is also where you find the Giardini delle Biennale, a big park filled with modern art.

14. Party at a festival

While the nightlife in Venice mostly consists of couples taking romantic evening strolls, the Venetians do know how to party. The most famous festival is, of course, the Carnavale in February. People come from all around the world to witness this Catholic celebration of excess before Lent in Venice. The baroque masquerade draws 3 million visitors every year.

Headed to Italy for the weekend and looking for the best things to do during your 2 days in Venice? Hoping to fill your Venice itinerary with the city’s hot spots and absolute must-eats? Well, you’re in luck, my gelato-loving friends, this post was written just for you!

Less famous, but not less fun is the Feste del Redentore at the end of July. A temporary, 24-hour, boat bridge is built every year between Giudecca and Venice to facilitate a procession from the Basilica di San Marco to the Redentore Church. It started as s religious festival to celebrate the end of the plague, but it has turned into a beloved party. People claim prime spots along the Giudecca boardwalk with plaids and tables to watch the firework show over Venice. Everyone eats, drinks and dances the night away and local youth end the festival with a sunrise dive in the water at Lido.

Venice is also known for the annual art festival, such as the Venice Film Festival, which is the perfect place to see new movies and spot celebrities.

15. Visit San Georgio Maggiore

The church of San Georgio Maggiore lies on a tiny island next to Giudecca. The basilica was designed by Andrea Palladio who designed many villas and public buildings in the Veneto region during the 16 th century. The church is still used by the Benedict monks. The impressive outside hides the beautiful frescoes on the interior of the church. Apart from the church, the island also houses a beautiful library and an open-air theatre.

So there ya have it, the best things to do in Venice in 2 days! Are you visiting soon?! What are you most excited to add to your Venice itinerary?!

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July 3, 2020 at 6:23 am

Great and informative article! This article is very well written, good job! I went to Venice last year and it was amazing!

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March 31, 2021 at 12:09 am

What a great article! We’re currently dreaming of going to Venice again – we’ve been there before and we love, love love it! Here’s to hoping for a better 2021 with loads of travel plans and new experiences!

– Cecilie

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Home » Europe » Italy » Venice

INSIDER VENICE ITINERARY for (2024)

Venice, with its ebbing and flowing canals, cobbled streets and architecture dating back to 600 AD – it couldn’t be a more perfect place to take your next vacation! Whether it’s a romantic getaway you’re looking for or an exciting, fun-filled adventure, Venice has it all.

As a travel destination, this gorgeous city lacks absolutely nothing! With a clean sea breeze drifting peacefully through it, and warm summer sun, there’s no better way to spend your holiday than floating blissfully down one of Venice’s gorgeous canals!

If you prefer to stay on dry land, that too can be arranged. A network of 400 bridges connects each neighborhood to the Venice archipelago. This makes it an easily walkable destination!

If you’re sold on its charm, then you better start planning your Venice itinerary in order to make the very most out of your vacation! Here’s everything you’ll need to know about planning a trip to Venice.

venice travel blog 2022

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Best Time To Visit Venice

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when to visit Venice

If you’re wondering when to visit Venice, wonder no more! There is no wrong time to visit this gorgeous city, but there is a season for everyone’s preferences. So let’s help you decide when the best time is for you to visit Venice so you can start planning your Venice itinerary!

From the beginning of spring until the end of summer is a very popular time to visit Venice. This falls between March and August. The beginning of spring offers perfect weather, however with that perfect weather comes the crowds. Although the end of summer tends to get very hot, and the canals begin to give off a pungent odor, tourists don’t seem to mind and flock to the city anyway!

If there’s one Italian festival you should really try to attend at least once in your life, it’s Carnevale in Venice. This event takes place in the spring and is one to consider when planning your trip to Venice.

Autumn and winter are great times to tour Venice. Although the weather is cold, you can avoid the crowds and enjoy a quiet city all to yourself! The beginning of autumn starts in September and winter runs through to the end of February. During this time you can expect heavy rains, but in our opinion, this makes Venice all the more magical!

You can also expect acqua alta (high water) during this time, which makes navigating the city a little more interesting!

Here’s what you can expect from Venice all year round:

where to stay In Venice

Venice is an incredible place to spend your vacation! With almost every one of Venice’s hostels or hotels looking out over some body of water, you really can’t go wrong. The buildings in Venice are often really old, which gives them a rich history and a quaint feel. But where should you stay while you’re in Venice?

We always recommend that you stay somewhere central to most of the attractions you’d like to visit, this cuts down on travel costs and saves you time!

San Marco is about as central as you get in Venice! Referred to by many of the locals as the heart of Venice, this stunning neighborhood is home to many of the Venice attractions that you’ll be visiting. Gorgeous terraced houses and hotels line the Grand Canal, making it the perfect place to rest your head during your time in Venice! Although, in the season you will pay premium rates to stay in San Marco, but you’ll save on travel costs, so who’s really winning?

Cannaregio is home to many Venetian locals and isn’t as popular with the tourists. However, it’s still located along the Grand Canal and is very central in Venice, making it a great place to stay during your visit! If you’re looking for an authentic Venetian experience, and are trying to escape the throngs of tourists, this is the perfect place to stay. Home to the Jewish Ghetto and a handful of beautiful churches, you’ll see some great attractions right on your doorstep.

If you can’t decide where to stay in Venice, here’s our hostel and hotel recommendations for all budget types!

Best Hostel in Venice – Anda Venice

Venice itinerary

Anda Venice is a modern yet arty hostel in the heart of Venice! It’s a creative space with a contemporary environment which allows for interactive communication and collaboration. The people that frequent the hostel are young and vibrant, making it an exciting place to stay during your Venice travels!

Best Airbnb in Venice: Stunning House near the water!

Stunning House near the water

This cozy home is ideal for 1- 2 couples wanting to have an adventurous, romantic time in the city of Venice. Just 10 minutes of walking, and you’ve hit the Piazza San Marco, Ponte di Rialto, and Palazzo Ducale. The place is away from the crowds to give you a peaceful experience. You’ll catch yourself staring at the chandelier laying on the orthopedic bed that feels like pure heaven on earth- kind of peace.

We also made this helpful Venice Airbnb Guide!

Best Budget Hotel in Venice – Hotel Dalla Mora

Venice itinerary

Hotel Dalla Mora is a quaint hotel in the Santa Croce area which is fairly close to all the main attractions! The hotel is set right on the canal and many of the rooms have a terrace that overlooks the canal. The Hotel Dalla Mora is very reasonably priced and has an olden day charm about it!

Best Luxury Hotel in Venice – Hilton Molino Stucky Venice

Venice itinerary

This incredibly grand hotel is set on the banks of the Giudecca island. The hotel was once a flour mill that was then refurbished to become the luxury hotel that it is today. If you value spectacular views and feelings of grandeur, this is the perfect place to stay during your time in Venice!

Venice Itinerary

Before we explore what you should be getting up to during your time in Venice, you need to know how you’re going to get around!

Although Venice is known for its unique gondola transportation method, it’s not the most efficient way to get around, nor the most cost effective! In fact, unless you’re doing it as a sight-seeing activity, or where you have to travel by gondola, we advise that you stay off the water altogether as its prone to overcrowding and congestion.

Renting a car is a great way to get around Venice, however, the lack of parking may become a problem. In some cases, you may have to park in a different neighborhood to the one you’re staying in! We don’t advise you to rent a car unless you’re staying for an extended period of time.

Walking is a great way to get around Venice as the city is very pedestrian friendly! If you’re in a bit of a hurry, we recommend hiring a bicycle while you’re there. Even at night, you can rest assured that walking anywhere will be safe, as long as you stick to the pedestrian paths.

Venice is very easy to navigate and you shouldn’t have any difficulty, however, if you do, the locals are very friendly and would be more than happy to help you!

Now that you know how to get around, let’s take a look at the activities that you should be adding to your Venice itinerary.

Peggy Guggenheim Collection | Rubelli Showroom | Hotel Locanda Canal | Torcello Cathedral | Ponte di Rialto | The Grand Canal

Day 1 of your Venice itinerary will see you up bright and early, exploring the best arts and textiles that Venice has to offer, visiting the favorite writing spot of famed author, Ernest Hemingway, and exploring the great bridges and canals that Venice is so famous for!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – View the Peggy Guggenheim Collection

  • Why it’s awesome: The Peggy Guggenheim Collection is one of the world’s premier private art collections and is an absolute treat to view.
  • Cost: $18 USD per person
  • Food nearby: Le Cafe Venezia is a cozy and casual cafe that offers amazing coffee for those that need a little extra boost in the mornings, as well as incredible pastries. If you’re looking for a full breakfast, they do that well too but our recommendation would be to try something sweet, because that’s what Le Cafe Venezia does best!

The building that houses the Peggy Guggenheim art collection may look like a half-built palace from the canals, but it’s absolutely extravagant on the inside. In 1949, Peggy Guggenheim purchased the unfinished building and proceeded to fill it with her marvelous collection of art!

Peggy Guggenheim Collection Venice

You can expect to see 20th-century Surrealism, abstract Expressionism, avant-garde sculpture, Cubism and many more art styles! All of the artworks were created by legends in the art world, namely Salvadore Dali, Pablo Picasso, Piet Mondrian and Jackson Pollock to name a few.

Insider Tip: We recommend visiting in the early morning before the crowds descend on this famous museum.

Day 1 / Stop 2 – Visit the Rubelli Showroom

  • Why it’s awesome: Right in the heart of San Marco, the Rubelli Showroom is the very best showcase of the famous Venetian textile house.
  • Cost: Price of entrance may vary due to season.
  • Food nearby: Ai Mercanti offers delicious food in a casual setting. With outdoor seating in a cute courtyard surrounded by traditional Venetian buildings, the setting could not get more romantic! Ai Mercanti is the perfect place to stop for lunch or a small snack. Each dish is thoughtfully prepared and beautifully presented!

The company was founded by Lorenzo Rubelli in 1889 and since has become known for its outstanding quality in the textile world. The textiles produced by this company are used by internationally-renowned designers, which is an incredible achievement!

A lot of Venetian interior design has been influenced by the great Rubelli family designs and he continues to be an icon in home design circles.

The Rubelli showroom showcases how the company is advancing its product lines by moving into furniture and architectural design too. This being said, the Rubelli brand still holds true to its routes in textiles and continues to showcase some of the worlds best!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Check Out the Hotel Locanda Canal

  • Why it’s awesome: This famed hotel is a favorite of the late Ernest Hemingway. In fact, one of his books, Across the River and Into the Trees , was written at this very hotel.
  • Cost: Free to visit!
  • Food nearby: Nevodi Venezia is a cozy restaurant that serves scrumptious meals! Known for its incredible assortment of seafood dishes, they’re a must-order if you decide to stop by. But don’t worry if you don’t eat seafood, they have plenty of other delicious options. If you’re a lover of all things carbs, they have spectacular pasta dishes that will leave you satisfied!

The Hotel Locanda Canal, famed by the writer Ernest Hemingway, is still owned by the same Cipriani family that it belonged to all those years ago! This 5-star hotel is a great place to stay during your time in Venice, but if luxury isn’t your style, visiting for a while is advised.

Hotel Locanda Canal venice

With so much historical value, this hotel isn’t one you’ll want to miss. If you decide to stay for a drink, be sure to order the world-renowned Bellini cocktail – a beautiful blend of prosecco and peach nectar. These cocktails were invented in 1930 by Giuseppe Cipriani, and were Hemingway’s favorite (which is enough of a reason to give them a try)!

Day 1 / Stop 4 – Tour Torcello Cathedral

  • Why it’s awesome: Torcello Cathedral is the oldest building in Venice, dating back to 639 AD.
  • Cost: $6 USD
  • Food nearby: Osteria Al Ponte del Diavolo is a cozy restaurant that serves deliciously home-cooked meals. This welcoming restaurant is surrounded by glass windows that give you lovely views of the greenery outside. You’ll find everything from seafood to lamb shank on the menu as well as some locally-brewed craft beers that will leave you feeling refreshed and ready to take on the rest of the day.

This iconic Venetian-Byzantine cathedral is an incredible piece of architecture! The inside of the cathedral is covered in colorful mosaics that draw tourists from all over Italy. This is one of the most photo-worthy Venice points of interest!

Torcello Cathedral Venice

By the alter you’ll find some of the most iconic works of art that the cathedral is known for. A gold-leaf masterpiece from the 11th century and an expressive mosaic called The Harrowing of Hell makes this cathedral all the more atmospheric.

Being able to visit the oldest building in Venice is an absolute privilege. Be sure not to miss out on this amazing experience during your time in Venice!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – Visit Ponte di Rialto

  • Why it’s awesome: The Ponte di Rialto is the most famous of the 400 bridges that join the Venetian archipelago.
  • Cost: Free!
  • Food nearby: Muro San Stae is a casual dining spot that offers delicious food until late at night. Outdoor seating offers a great opportunity for people-watching and hearing the buzz of the city as you eat your meal! Every dish served is a picture-worthy meal and nothing less than completely delicious. Be sure to stay for dessert if your stomach allows for it, it is truly a delight for all your senses!

This beautiful Venetian bridge was built in 1588 and still stands strong to this day. The bridge has become famous for its romantic views of the city and the boutiques that line the one side! Expect to find exquisite jewelry and precious gemstones during your shopping experience.

Ponte di Rialto Venice

We recommend visiting the Ponte di Rialto in the evening so you can catch a gorgeous sunset from this perfect viewing spot! You’ll also miss the crowds that congest the area during the day.

Day 1 / Stop 6 – Ride a Gondola Through a Canal

  • Why it’s awesome: Canals can be overcrowded with thousands of gondolas in the day time during the busy season. This makes a night ride the perfect way to experience the wonderful canals of Venice!
  • Cost: $45 USD for a 40-minute gondola ride (with a 6 person capacity).
  • Food nearby: Osteria Bancogiro is a Venitian restaurant with an exposed brick interior. Osteria Bancogiro is also famous for its gorgeous canal-side terrace! The Venetian food that it offers is absolutely delicious and is served in an exquisite way. Enjoy a full-meal or delectable tapas while you watch the canal flow by.

The Grand Canal is the main waterway that runs through Venice, carrying many gondolas and acting as the main transportation route through Venice! This is a must-have experience during your time in this gorgeous city, and it often provides many picture-perfect moments that you’ll want to remember for a lifetime!

Ride a Gondola Through a Canal Venice

Hop on a Gondola as it gracefully glides through the water, taking you through Venice’s widest waterway. During your trip, you’ll see some of the best Venice attractions and see the city from a whole new perspective. Enjoying this activity at night makes it all the more magical!

Insider Tip: Be sure to bargain for the best price. Venetian gondoliers often try and take advantage of tourists. Speaking to a local to find out what you should be paying for a ride is often the best solution.

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Murano Glass Museum | San Sebastiano | Museo del Merletto | Hotel Heureka | Bridge of Sighs 

It’s day two and there’s still a whole lot more to see and do in Venice!  Start your day off touring the glass museum and a beautiful basilica. You’ll then make your way to the lace museum, where you’ll learn the history of this great fabric, before heading to a modern Venetian hotel that stands out from the rest! Finish off your day at the Bridge of Sighs and learn about its historical significance. Here’s what you should be adding to your Venice itinerary!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Take a Trip to The Murano Glass Museum

  • Why it’s awesome: Visit the museum of glassmaking on the island where the practice of glassmaking first originated.
  • Cost: $11.30 USD per person
  • Food nearby: Art Cafe and Food is a lovely little restaurant, perfect for an early morning breakfast. Whether you want to start your day with a hearty meal, a bowl of fruit or a slice of decadent cake, the Art Cafe and Food has got you covered! Be sure to order one of their delicious hot drinks as it will go down perfectly with whatever you order to eat.

Taking an early morning trip to the island of Murano is well worth the ferry ride! Murano is where the thousand-year-old practice of glassmaking all began. So why not visit the glass museum while you’re there.

The Murano Glass Museum displays the full history of glassmaking. Showing everything from mosaic glass and chandeliers to beads and special techniques from the 15th century!

Murano Glass Museum Venice

On this outing, you’ll get the chance to step inside the glass studio and see how they make glass vases, light fixtures and jewelry. This is a truly unique experience that should not be missed during your time in Venice!

Be sure to snap a picture of the incredible glass sculpture that sits outside of the museum!

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Visit San Sebastiano

  • Why it’s awesome: Less popular than its San Marco counterpart, the San Sebastiano Basilica is just as grand if not more so, and heavily under-rated.
  • Cost: $3.50 USD
  • Food nearby: Alibaba Restaurant Bar is a very traditionally-decorated Venetian restaurant with a cozy vibe! Their food is absolutely divine, so be sure to order one of their many unique dishes, that you won’t find elsewhere in Venice. Meat-lovers and vegetarians alike will be well catered for at this lovely dining spot!

The San Sebastiano is a wonderfully ornate Basilica similar to the San Marco Basilica, but with far fewer crowds! In busy season, you can barely get a glimpse of the San Marco Basilica, and standing in long queues to get inside is hardly worth it!

Visit San Sebastiano Venice

For a small fee, you can enter the San Sebastiano Basilica and see the great artwork of Renaissance artist – Paolo Tiepolo. Save Venice Inc, the company responsible for many architecture and art restorations all over the city, has recently restored Tiepolo’s ceiling mural! They’ve also spent just over 10 years restoring most of this beautiful church.

The architecture of this great basilica is something of a marvel in itself and well worth the visit. Be sure to add this gem to your Venice trip itinerary! What better way to skip the queues and enjoy some of Venice’s great history than by visiting this beautiful basilica?

Day 2 / Stop 3 – Tour the Museo del Merletto (The Venice Lace Museum)

  • Why it’s awesome: During Medieval times, the very same building was a lace school, where students learned to weave intricate fabrics!
  • Cost: $5.70 USD
  • Food nearby: Osteria Al Fureghin is a cozy restaurant serving all kinds of delights! They’re known for their unique selection of seafood as well as their incredibly decadent desserts! If seafood is not your style, they have plenty of other options: pizza, pasta or home-made pastries are all on the cards. If you’re just making a quick stop-off, then be sure to buy a packet of their home-made biscuits for the road!

The Museo del Merletto was once a lace school, which was where Leonardo da Vinci stopped to buy his main piece of fabric used at the altar in his masterpiece at the Duomo di Milano. This all happened in 1481, so as you can imagine, the building has transformed immensely since that time!

Tour the Museo del Merletto Venice

The Venice lace museum outlines the history of the lace industry in Venice and shows how these incredible fabrics have transformed over the years. While it’s no longer a school, they do give demonstrations about how the lace is made in comparison to how it was made back in the day!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – Visit Hotel Heureka

  • Why it’s awesome: Even though this hotel occupies a centuries-old palazzo, it’s managed to create an arty, chic feel that’s different from anywhere else in the city.
  • Food nearby: Bacaro Quebrado is a cozy cafe that serves a range of delicious dishes! If you’re not ready for a full-on lunch, it’s the perfect place to stop by for some tapas before heading on your way. Their cake selection is absolutely exquisite, so if you’re in the mood for something sweet, you’re sure to be in for a treat!

Most of Venice is old, dingy and dark (in a good way) that holds a lot of cultural and historical significance, but it’s great to enter a place that’s done something a little different! This hotel has created a refreshing space while keeping the authentically Venetian feel.

Visit Hotel Heureka Venice

Wooden ceilings and exposed brick walls give you hints that the building is just as old as the ones that surround it. But by creating an open-plan area that gives the building a more modern feel, the hotel has created a truly unique space!

Modern Expressionist paintings hang on just about every wall, and colorful velvet furniture accents every room. If you don’t want to stay at the Hotel Heureka during your trip, then we recommend at least popping by for their famous G&T!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Head Inside the Bridge of Sighs

  • Why it’s awesome: The Bridge of Sighs is an enclosed limestone bridge that has small windows with stone bars.
  • Food nearby: Bistrot de Venise is a restaurant that serves incredible Venetian dishes in a wonderfully authentic setting. Velvet covered walls and limestone statues make you realize how unique this great city really is. The food is served in small portions but is an absolute delight to the senses! Be sure to indulge in a 5-course meal while sipping on some of the finest wine in Venice.

The Bridge of Sighs is an absolutely beautiful bridge that connects the new prison with the interrogation rooms. This limestone bridge is a stunning piece of architecture! Most tourists flock to the bridge next to it to get a good view of the Bridge of Sighs, but that area is often overcrowded and visiting the bridge itself is a far more unique experience!

the Bridge of Sighs Venice

The bridge was built back in the 1600s and holds great historical significance! It got its name because convicts would sigh as they saw their last view of Venice before imprisonment. For the many who died in prison, this was the last view of Venice that they ever saw!

Taking a look out of its windows gives you a glimpse into the painful past of the many people that crossed the bridge under dismal circumstances.

Anda Venice

Anda Venice

It’s a creative space with a contemporary environment which allows for interactive communication and collaboration.

  • 24 Hour Reception
  • Self-Catering Facilities

Santa Maria della Salute | Jewish Ghetto | Museo della Musica | Window Shopping | St. Mark’s Square

Venice is perfect for a weekend but lots of people ned up staying longer. If you’re staying for more than 2 days in Venice, you’re going to need a few more activities to fill up your itinerary!

See the Santa Maria della Salute

  • This is one of the most photographed basilicas in all of Venice.
  • The basilica was built at the end of the 17th century, to give thanks for the end of the plague!
  • The Santa Maria della Salute sits on the edge of the Grand Canal in the Dorsoduro neighborhood.

The dramatic entrance-way of the Santa Maria della Salute , has a white Istrian stone staircase, leading up towards its front door. More than 100 stone figures decorate the churches many buttresses.

Santa Maria della Salute Venice

If you visit Venice during the winter, you just might be in for a treat! Every year on November the 21st a giant temporary bridge is laid out across the Grand Canal so that Venetians can cross it and make their way into the church. On this day they celebrate the day of Madonna Della Salute, which was established by the Venetian Republic back in 1630. If you happen to be in Venice over this period, be sure to join in the celebrations!

If you’re going to be missing the celebrations, this beautiful basilica is still worth a visit. The gorgeous architecture will astound you and make the visit worth every penny. Be sure to take a look inside – the attention to detail will blow you away. If you’re a history-lover, be sure not to give this activity a miss!

Explore the Jewish Ghetto

  • The word ghetto originated in Venice back in 1516.
  • The Jewish Ghetto was created when thousands of Jews were forced to live in a segregated area in Venice.
  • There are two sections to the Jewish Ghetto: the Ghetto Vecchio (old) and the Ghetto Nuovo (New).

The Venetian Jewish Ghetto was created by the Venetian Republic in 1516. The government forced Jewish families to live in this segregated part of the city! These houses are smaller than other Venetian houses. They’re multi-storey apartments with low ceilings to accommodate the dense population of people staying in such a small area.

The Jewish people remained segregated from the rest of the Venetian population for just under 300 years, before being reunited in 1797.

Jewish Ghetto Venice

During this period, 5 synagogues were built in the area, 2 of which are still operational! To this day, there is still a culturally active Jewish community of about 450 people. However, only a few of them still live in the Ghetto.

The Jewish Ghetto is a great place to explore for those who love learning about the history of the place they’re visiting. Although Jewish people never faced anything similar to the holocaust in Italy, they were still seen as outcasts for a long time!

Learn about Venetian Music at the Museo della Musica

  • The Museo della Musica gives an interesting look into the musical instruments that have been used by Venetians over the years.
  • The museum delves deep into the art of violin making and how the process has changed over the years.
  • The museum provides an interesting display that explains the life of Antonio Vivaldi, an incredible Venetian composer and musician!

If you’re a music lover, this museum is the perfect place to spend the day exploring in complete fascination! The fact that it’s absolutely free just adds to the excitement.

Since the middle ages, music has held a special place in Venetian culture. In fact, in the 1800s almost every household in Venice had at least one instrument! Music has been instrumental in the development of Venetian culture (see what we did there).

Museo della Musica Venice

The instruments they have on display date back to the 1600s and have fared well over the years! You’ll find a violin, guitar (early versions of them), flauto (early flute), bassoon, oboe and  the English horn. You’ll also spot a clarinet, musette, flageolet, harp, monochord with horn, muted violin with horn (hybrid violin and trumpet), barrel (organ with bow) and psaltery.

From the sight of all these instruments, it’s fairly obvious that Venetians were continuously experimenting with different sounds and formulating new instruments!

The museum was once a church called the San Maurizio church and boasts of incredible architecture and amazing artistry. If you’re not that into music, it’s still worth checking out as the history of music in Venice is fascinating enough!

Enjoy Window Shopping

  • Window shopping is absolutely free!
  • Some of the most interesting sites that there are to discover in Venice will only be seen by wandering around and exploring for yourself.
  • Wandering around Venice can help you get to know the locals and, in turn, understand Venetian life a little better!

While window shopping in Venice, you’ll discover all the incredibly niche shops that fill the area. You’ll find everything from blown glass and jewelry to decorative carnival masks! Venice is a place of celebration, so you’ll find many carnival themed shops, especially during February, which is carnival season in Venice. Be sure to join in the festivities if you’re visiting Venice over this period!

Window Shopping

Wandering the streets allows you to discover the magic of Venice for yourself and allows you to explore all the areas that interest you most. While taking a guided tour is great because of all the knowledge you gain along the way, guiding yourself allows you to follow a whim and pique your own interests!

Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for a special ornament to take home! It’s always lovely having a little reminder of the places you’ve visited. We recommend buying a carnival mask to put on display, or a small limestone statue, as either of these really encapsulate the essence of Venice!

Stand Awe Inspired in St. Mark’s Square

  • Mark’s Square is also known as Piazza San Marco and is thought of as the heart of Venice!
  • Mark’s Square is the only piazza in the whole of Venice. All other open plots are campo , which was cultivated land before it was paved with cobblestones.
  • Lining the piazza is multiple historical sites, which are absolutely incredible to visit. In peak season these get very busy but entering the square is enough to get a great feel for the area!

The piazza is a bustling hub of tourists, locals, vendors, restaurants and the perfect place to do a load of people-watching. If you wanted to pick up a cheap souvenir during your trip, this would be the perfect place to do it!

St. Mark's Square

Sit back at one of the many restaurants that look onto the piazza and enjoy some fine wine and a carbo loaded 5-star meal!

Insider Tip: Because of the throngs of crowds that St. Mark’s Square attracts, we recommend visiting in the early morning, or later in the evening. This means you’ll miss most of the crowds, and you’ll see the square at its best – bathed in pink light from the sun’s rising or setting!

Venice is generally a very safe city, but there are always exceptions to the rule, this is why we recommend playing it safe and adhering to some precautions during your Venice trip and whilst you’re in Italy.

Be careful of pickpockets during your vacation in Venice. They tend to gravitate toward areas with lots of tourists and heavily congested areas. There have also been pickpocketing incidents that have taken place on board local waterbuses. For this reason, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on your belongings, or wear a money belt to hide your cash!

Feeding pigeons is something that many tourists take great delight in, but be aware that it is now not allowed in many parts of Venice. This is because the pigeons have ruined many artworks and buildings that are a great part of Venetian history!

Acqua Alta are periods of high water in Venice. This phenomenon generally takes place during the winter and autumn seasons, and occurs due to tidal waters and strong winds from the south. If you’re visiting Venice during the colder months, it’s a good idea to choose a hotel in the upper part of town to make sure that the high waters don’t affect your Venice holiday too badly!

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Venice

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

venice travel blog 2022

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

If you’re staying for more than 3 days in Venice, you may want to consider taking a few day trips from Venice. This will help to keep you occupied during your vacation, and help to fill up your exciting Venice itinerary!

Lido di Jesolo: Afternoon and Evening Tour of Venice

Lido di Jesolo Afternoon and Evening Tour of Venice

During this 8-hour tour, you’ll be guided through one of the most romantic cities in the world. Exploring at dusk gives it an even more romantic feel! You’ll get the opportunity to visit and explore some of the most iconic buildings in the city.

This guided tour ensures that you see all the most important sites in Venice! You’ll walk along deserted streets, lit with street lamps and take in the cities intimate atmosphere. Touring Venice could never be more lovely than at night!

Romeo and Juliet’s Verona: Full-Day Trip From Venice

Romeo and Juliets Verona

During this full-day trip from Venice, you’ll visit the fairytale city of Verona! You’ll meet your guide at the very church that Romeo and Juliet were said to have gotten married, and your guide will bring the charms of the city to life with true stories of its fascinating history!

You’ll get the opportunity to visit ‘Juliet’s house’ and the Roman amphitheater as well as many other Verona attractions.

After your tour, you’ll have a greater understanding of why this incredible city was the perfect setting for the world’s most famous romance!

Full-Day Prosecco and Wine Tour and Tasting From Venice

Full-Day Prosecco and Wine Tour and Tasting From Venice

On this 9-hour tour, you’ll take a drive along one of the most beautiful roads in Italy. You’ll wind along bending roads in luscious countryside of the Prosecco region!

You’ll get the opportunity to tour two wineries and taste the best Prosecco they have to offer. Then enjoy an incredible lunch at a trattoria overlooking the beautiful vineyards! Be sure to have your camera at hand during this tour, as these landscapes are something you’ll want to remember forever!

Cortina and Dramatic Dolomites Tour From Venice

Cortina and Dramatic Dolomites Tour From Venice

On this full-day tour, you’ll get the opportunity to see the dramatic Dolomite mountains and even explore some of their winding mountain roads. Your guide will lead you to one of the mountains peaks to enjoy panoramic views! You’ll also stop at the quaint mountain village of Cortina which is surrounded by snowy peaks.

During the trip, you’ll also get the chance to visit the enchanting Lake Misurina, which makes for a stunning way to end the trip! After passing through multiple charming mountain villages, you’ll make your way home.

Full-Day Murano, Burano and Torcello Excursion From Venice

FullDay Murano Burano and Torcello Excursion from Venice

On this 7-hour tour, you’ll discover the magic of Murano, Burano and Torcello, each with a different delightful charm. You’ll learn the art of glass-blowing in Murano, followed by exploring Buranos colorful houses! These make for excellent photos! Then see and learn about the incredible artifacts of Torcello.

Your trip will be taken on a comfortable modern vessel, and you’ll be guided by an expert tour guide! This is a Venice tour that you won’t want to miss!

Active Roots Security Belt

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Venice itinerary.

How many days do you need in Venice?

Venice is the perfect destination for a long weekend. Spending 3-4 days there will allow you to check out all the top attractions!

What should you include on a 3 day Venice itinerary?

No trip to Venice is complete without these top experiences: – See Ponte di Rialto – Ride a Gondola – Visit San Sebastiano – Explore the Bridge of Sighs

Where should you stay for a weekend in Venice?

For a short visit, you’re best off staying central to cut down on travel time. San Marco is the best option for this, putting you in the heart of all the action. For a quieter alternative, check out Cannaregio.

Is Venice worth visiting?

Totally. This uniqiue city should be on every traveller’s bucket list, offering charming attractions and amazing history.

Venice is a truly iconic city that put romance on the map! The architectural wonders, the magic of the cobbled streets, and the gondolas that glide through the water all add to the incredible atmosphere that surrounds this floating city.

If you’ve never been to Venice before, you’re in for a treat! With all the charms of Europe and a bit of extra magic, this lovely city could be the setting of your next epic travel story!

Now that you know when you should visit Venice, where you should be staying and what you should be doing on your Venice vacation, it’s time to start planning. We hope we’ve given your Venice itinerary a little more direction, and helped to make your Venice trip the best one yet!

venice travel blog 2022

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Lu Frey

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Urban Abroad

Urban Planning and Travel Blog

2 days in Venice

Travel Blog Last Updated · Dec 31st, 2022 [post_author_posts_link] · [post_comments before=""] -->

venice itinerary

Venice is the city of canals, bridges, ‘campi’ and ‘sestieri’! You’ll find out more about the meaning of these words whilst walking around the city.

As one of the world’s most romantic places, it offers visitors the best views of Gothic palaces, mosaics, bridges, and the Venetian lagoon.

There is much more of which we are going to cover in this itinerary.

Table of Contents

2 days in Venice itinerary

Venice is the 1st stop in our 2-weeks in Italy and we know it’ll leave your eyes filled with Italian beauty, so let’s make the most out of the 2 days.

First, though, if you were wondering…

Is 2 days enough to see Venice?

We believe that two days in Venice is definitely better than one!

You won’t have enough time to visit some of its hidden gems or less touristy neighborhoods of the city, but if you plan well your time, you can visit all the top attractions.

We recommend visiting sights such as the St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace as soon as they open or more around the closing time to avoid queues at the entrance.

Try to visit all close by landmarks when you’re in the same area, as it’s easy to start wandering around streets and piazzas and lose track of time.

What is the best month to go to Venice?

The best months to go to Venice are the ones of the shoulder seasons.

We suggest visiting Venice between March and early June, and from September to November to avoid most of the tourists and enjoy pleasant temperatures.

In the summer months, the streets and attractions are overcrowded, some days temperatures can be quite high (over 30 C°) and accommodation prices go sky-high!

On the other hand, the winter months are perfect to see the city half-empty, but temperatures are quite cool and high tide is a risk to take into consideration.

Even if you can visit Venice all year round: spring and autumn are the best seasons to visit and have a fabulous time walking around its streets.

Is a gondola ride in Venice worth it?

With two days in Venice, it’s 100% worth including a gondola ride!

Normally the gondola rides last no longer than 30 minutes, so it’s absolutely easy to get to one at any point of the day, relax and enjoy the city from a different perspective.

You can spot gondoliers all over the city, and you can share a gondola ride with up to 5 people for 80 euros (daytime).

From 7 pm till 8 am, the price for the gondola ride goes up to 100 euros.

These prices are the same around the city. If you want to book in advance, we suggest this: Private Grand Canal Gondola tour .

Let’s now get into the all important itinerary:

Day 1 in Venice

This 2 day Venice itinerary is for visitors who have more time and can afford to move slower to take more time to appreciate the landmarks.

Check out our one day in Venice itinerary if you’ll be arriving at Santa Lucia train station and walking towards the main attractions of Venice.

Read below to see exaclty what you can do on your first day in Venice:

venice itinerary

Accademia Galleries and Bridge

Before arriving at St. Mark’s Square, make a stop and enjoy the wonderful view of the Grand Canal from the Accademia Bridge.

This is the first time you’ll get to see the most important canal of Venice, the one dividing the city into two parts!

If you are interested in art and museums, take a couple of hours to visit the Accademia Galleries, one of Venice’s most significant art museums.

Part of its art collection includes worldwide famous masterpieces such as ‘The Feast in the House of Levi’ by Paolo Veronese and ‘Pietà’ of Tiziano.

Resting your feet in this neighborhood is a good idea too, with hotels such as Agli Alboretti you’ll always be a few steps from the museum.

St. Mark’s Square + Basilica + Campanile

It is no secret that Italy is known for its architecture… so welcome to one of the world’s most spectacular town squares: St. Mark’s Square!

On arrival, take your time to walk in the middle of the square and down the arcades of the Procuracies buildings surrounding the famous ‘piazza’.

st mark basilica

These represent a stunning example of Veneto-Byzantine and Renaissance architecture.

At this point, walk towards the St. Mark’s Basilica and take a look at its facade and the sculptures and deep entrances uniquely characterizing it.

Remember to book your visit in advance in order to avoid long queues.

The highlight of the cathedral is the extensive golden mosaics located on the upper levels of the interior part, covering an area of 8000 m2.

You can also book the St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace tour and during the same tour visit both historical buildings.

If you have time, visit the St. Mark’s Campanile, the tallest building in Venice and the one from where you can enjoy the best eye bird view of the Venetian lagoon.

Doge’s Palace + Bridge of Sighs

The Doge’s Palace is the old palace where the Doge of Venice was residing during the Serenissima Republic period.

venice itinerary

During your visit to the Doge’s Palace, stroll around the different rooms, visit the Doge’s apartments, the institutional chambers located on both the first and second floor as well as the prisons.

At this point, you’ll cross the Bridge of Sighs, which was connecting the interrogation room of the Doge’s Palace to the prisons.

The reason why the bridge has been called this is that the view from here was the last one of Venice for prisoners.

Once finished your visit to the prisons and the palace, just step outside and take a look (and a picture) at the bridge from a different point of view.

If you decide to stay in this neighborhood you have hotel Danieli with it’s spectacular 360° views which is one of Venice’s award winning hotels.

Grand Canal sunset view from Rialto Bridge

Finally head to the Rialto Bridge, just 15 minutes walk from St. Mark’s Square. This area around and on the bridge is dotted with clothing and souvenir shops.

At this point, you can relax, find a nice spot and enjoy a romantic sunset over the Grand Canal.

This might be a good moment to book your gondola ride and ask your gondolier to show you some less crowded canals of Venice.

Here in Venice, there are thousands of places where to eat yummy food.

We recommend stopping in the Rialto Bridge and Markets area and finding the best trattoria or ‘cicchetti’ bar (bacaro) to have a lovely Italian-style aperitivo.

For the best authentic Venetian experience, take a look at the ‘Enoteca al Volto’ and ‘Cantina do Spade’.

Also, if you want more, a stay at one of the many Venice hotels with canal views will allow you to make the most of the best sunset view of the city.

Day 2 in Venice

These next set of landmarks in Venice are the ones that we suggest you visit on your second day after visiting all of the above.

venice itinerary

Acqua Alta Book Shop

By spending two days in Venice, we can start adding unusual and hidden places to visit. Your first stop would be the Libreria Acqua Alta, the most beautiful bookstore in Venice (and for some people of entire the world!).

The bookshop is in Calle Lunga Santa Maria Formosa, in the district of Castello, and just along a canal.

For this reason, is subject to flooding during the ‘acqua alta’ (high tide) during the months of October and November.

The quirky bookstore features a unique collection of new and second-hand books literally stored on kayaks and gondolas!

It’s easy to lose track of time whilst visiting it and by choosing to buy a book here, you are supporting a local Venetian business.

Don’t forget to take a picture of the small terrace with the book stair and one of the gondolas just parked… outside the bookshop.

Basilica Santa Maria della Salute

The Basilica Santa Maria Della Salute is one of the most stunning Baroque-style churches in Venice.

Located in the Dorsoduro district (a less-crowded district) where you can admire views of the Grand Canal, St. Mark’s Square, and Doge’s Palace.

basilica santa maria della salute

As many books about Italy state, the story of the church goes back more than 400 years ago. Before the church existed, in 1630 the city of Venice was hit by the Plague that was killing tens of thousands of people.

The whole city implored the Virgin Mary for protection and promised to build a church as a sign of gratitude.

Campo San Polo

Want to feel like a real Venetian? It’s possible! Stroll around Campo San Polo, the second-largest town square of the city after St. Mark’s Square.

This district is one of the oldest in the city, the one dedicated to grazing and agriculture, bull races, and fairs in the past and nowadays, where the outdoor cinema takes place during the Venice Film Festival.

Cannaregio District

This is the second-largest ‘sestiere’ (district) in Venice and the closest to the Santa Lucia train station and Strada Nova (the main road connecting the station to Rialto). You have Hotel Adua closeby too, for easy access.

This is one of the most authentic districts to walk around in Venice. Cross the two bridges of Ponte delle Guglie and Ponte ai Tre Archi.

In Cannaregio you can see university students in a rush for the next class, Venetians shouting ‘buongiorno’ across canals and the perfect place to get the most of Venice nightlife in Fondamenta Ormesini.

Do not miss a visit to the Jewish Ghetto, the narrowest street of the city (Calle Varisco is only 53 wide!) and taste the local fried fish dish at the Frito Inn, perfect for a quick lunch on the go.

Jewish Ghetto

In Cannaregio district is positioned the old Venetian Ghetto. This is where Hebrews were forced to live by the Doge in 1516.

Walking around the streets and the main square is an experience not to be missed during your 2 days in Venice.

You’ll see a lot of Hebrew-owned small shops, art galleries, and bakeries. Try the kosher restaurant called ‘Gam Gam’ and visit the Jewish Museum of Venice along with the most ancient synagogues of Venice.

Do you fancy staying in the Jewish Ghetto for a night? Check out Locanda del Ghetto which is located 10 minutes (walking) from the Santa Lucia railway station and just 25 minutes from St. Mark’s Square.

Venice Travel Tips

See our list of travel tips to take with you:

  • Aside from exploring by foot there are various different ways to get around in Venice so when traveling around the Venetian lagoon be sure to read about them all on this blog.
  • The landmarks in Venice suggested above are designed for you to see some of the city’s most popular cites!
  • Remember to get your FREE travel insurance quote from SafetyWing to receive fully comprehensive support when it comes to unforeseen travel complications.
  • If you find yourself backpacking Italy, or perhaps you’re traveling on a more modest budget… why not check out one of the Top Rated Hostels here to save those hard-earned Euros for other activities?
  • If you are traveling alone, be sure to ‘always’ carry your cell phone along with you, if you have one that is. Even if you are just popping out of your hotel to go to the main square.
  • Check out the Trenitalia website to see how all of the train stations are connected if you’ll be using public transport.
  • Check out this private Street Food Tasting tour where you’ll visit the Rialto Market and sample foods such as “cicchetti” and see more historical sites along the way.
  • Try to carry cash and items of value with you at all time in a front or inside pocket, you’ll find Pacsafe make some great bags/backpacks for traveling around with valuables.

Although you shouldn’t need to abide by any specific rules for safety in Venice, never let your guard down. The city has hardly any crime towards tourists, so imagine yourself in a safe space whilst here.

2 days in Venice Itinerary

Now you have some ideas of which places to visit in Venice!

Some of these landmarks are popular with people who are visiting the city for the first time.

So what are you waiting for? Be sure to start planning your trip to Italy today and aim to follow some of our sustainable travel tips to ensure that your trip has a positive impact on the local environment.

This post contains affiliate links, meaning, if you click through and make a purchase or sign up for a program, we may earn a commission. This is at no additional cost to you.

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Tips for Visiting Venice in Italy

Tips for Visiting Venice in Italy

Be ready for anything in Venice. This floating city consists of a group of 117 small islands separated by canals and linked by bridges. It can be the most romantic place on earth, but it can also be terribly expensive and feel like a tourist trap if you don’t do your research.

I love Venice and visited it many, many times as I used lived only an hour away – in Verona (which I also recommend visiting).

All you need to know is how to prepare correctly so Venice can live up to your expectations and offer you luxury at an affordable price. Here are my best travel tips for visiting Venice in Italy.

view from Campanile di San Marco

1. Pay Attention to the Location of Your Accommodation in Venice

“If you go to Venice, book a flight and get a hotel somewhere in the city” – that’s the worst advice anyone can give you.

Specificity matters, you should pay close attention to which airport you’re flying to (VCE Marco Polo is great, but Treviso Airport is very far away).

Also, it does matter where to stay, as you could easily end up VERY unhappy. If you’re going to book a hotel at the last minute you might end up staying over an hour away from Venice due to the high demand.

I’d avoid staying on the mainland, as it might take you up to an hour by bus to get to the part of Venice you actually want to see.  If you’re choosing a hotel, check out my guide on where to stay in Venice . 

Beautiful Venice canals

Hotel Danieli  – One of the best hotels in Venice. Even the lobby is the most gorgeous ever. If you don’t want to spend a ton on staying there, at least check out their restaurant.

Check out prices on:  Booking.com

Residenza Veneziana  – Right on the canal with gondolas, this hotel has high standards for an affordable price.

Generator  – Located on Guideca Island with a view on the main square, it’s an affordable and clean hostel. You can book sailing trips and other excursions directly at their front desk. The minus is that you will need a pass to get in and out of Guideca, but the boats are every few minutes. 

Residenza Veneziana

2. Get a Vaporetto Tourist Pass

If you get lost (which happens to everyone in Venice) or you’re simply too tired of walking around you can hop on and off a Vaporetto. It’s a “water taxi” but I would rather call it a “water bus”.

It’s $24 for 12 hours of unlimited rides, $26 for 24 hours, and $33 for 36 hours. You don’t have to think twice about taking it only one stop, and you can also take it simply for the sightseeing. Compared to EUR 7.5 for a single ride, it’s a bargain!

tips for visiting Venice

3. Be Prepared for Crowds

Venice is beautiful in the summer, but unfortunately, you’re not the only person who thinks so. Be prepared for a gorgeous, yet crowded experience with a lot of tourists running around.

It may seem like everywhere you go is full of people, especially between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. when the cruise ships pull in and take their passengers onshore for excursions to the museums in the Piazza San Marco.

Do yourself a favor and get skip the line tickets to major points of interest. It’s only a few bucks more, but it can save you a lot of time and frustration.

The further away you go from San Marco square the fewer people you’ll see. Get lost in the small streets to feel like a local. In the residential quarter around the Ormesini and Sensa canals at the northern end of Cannaregio, you can still enjoy a real slice of genuine Venetian life.

tourists getting into a gondola

Best Times to Visit Venice:

  • Carnival but during the week, not weekends (my absolute favorite time)
  • early Spring

When to Avoid:

  • June & July
  • November because of Aqua Alta (it can flood any time between mid-October to January, but Nov is the prime time)

My Favorite Time to Go to Venice: Weekdays during Carnival

Carnival weekends are insanely busy and experience, but during the week there aren’t many people and you can still see beautiful costumes and feel the atmosphere of the carnival. 

venice travel blog 2022

4. What to Do in Venice: Take Behind the Scenes Tours

I had an opportunity to visit the Basilica of San Marco after-hours tour with Walks of Italy . I can’t recommend this tour enough as there were only 10 of us in the entire church. We didn’t have to rush anywhere, and we also could explore the catacombs.

DSC01463

The tour is obviously more expensive than regular admission. It only opened to our small group arranged by the Walks of Italy. As my guide explained during the day being the church feels like being in a sardine can because everyone is pushed together side by side. Not to mention the enormous line outside.

Crypt under Basilica of San Marco

5. Don’t Just Take ANY Gondola

What’s the first thing people think about when they hear about Venice? Gondolas! As I explained in my other post , gondolas cost 80 Euros for half an hour as they are regulated by the city. There’s no arguing over the price unless you pre-booked your gondola online.

While I’m not saying it’s not worth it, in fact I highly recommend it, but it might not be for everyone because of the price. If you’re not willing to spend that much on a short gondola ride take a local boat. It looks like a gondola, but costs just a few Euros as it’s a local transportation and only lasts a few minutes.

If you decide to ride a gondola, take a few things into consideration. A lot of other blogs will tell you that it costs more for your gondoliers to sing or to enter smaller canals – both things couldn’t be further away from the truth!

As long as you avoid Canale Grande or start near Ponte Rialto (I highly recommend taking gondolas from a small canal next to Residenza Veneziana hotel. Otherwise, take a walk and shop around for your gondolier and you’ll have a great experience!

gondola rides in Venice

6. Avoid Eating Pizza in Venice

Italy doesn’t always mean pizza. In fact, eating pizza in Venice isn’t recommended as it’s not going to be any better than a cheap pizza you can make at home.

Restaurants in Venice don’t have permission to have real stone ovens so they bake their pizzas in electric ovens. But don’t worry – Venice has tons of other exquisite culinary options so you can definitely be satisfied!

Best tip: The further away from San Marco square the better the food gets.

Tramezzini sandwiches

7. See Another Side of Venice

Try the beach at the Lido, a historic, picturesque beach with just enough Italian girls in bikinis to keep a teenage boy’s eyes off of his electronic devices. Rent a bike, get some sun, and enjoy the local vibe!

Burano used to be another great local spot, but then it became Instagram famous. I still recommend going to Burano to see all the colorful houses , but it just might feel slightly more touristy than it used to be. It has some of the best restaurants like Trattoria Al Gato Nero.

If you decide to spend the night in Burano you can experience a bit of the local life, because most tourists only visit during the day. Early morning or late evening there were no tourists around.

Burano

8. Prepare to Get Lost

Venice is very confusing with its narrow streets and alleys quite often Google Maps gets lost, so pay attention to the shape of buildings and bridges instead of the actual blue dot. You can also just ask for directions, but this doesn’t always mean you’re going to easily find your destination.

DSC01507

You will be walking a lot. If you have kids and want to bring the stroller beware – you will be carrying it up and down the canal stairs a LOT. Similar to Positano actually.

I’ve taken my baby in a stroller various times and we had no issues, including getting in and out of Vaporetto, but a lightweight travel stroller is a must for Venice (or really anywhere in Italy). Don’t even think of dragging a giant monster stroller like Uppababy Vista to Italy – you won’t even get into a restaurant or your hotel through the doorway with it. ( more on Italy with kids here )

9. Use Water Fountains

Don’t overpay for water in Venice when you can simply fill your bottle with fresh cold water from the local water fountains. It’s safe to drink this water so there’s no need to be afraid.

DSC01575

10. Don’t Buy Souvenirs at Tourist Stalls

As in any other tourist destination, a lot of crappy souvenirs are sold in Venice. Most goods are made in other countries such as China and passed off as “Made in Italy”, so it’s always great to find a genuine Italian product.

For example, you can buy glass directly from Murano, known for its high-quality glassware. You can be taken to a glass-making factory where they put on a glass blowing demonstration for a few minutes before you are escorted into the gallery, but don’t take out your camera. Although no photos are allowed, you can bring a great glass souvenir home!

tips for visiting Venice

Looking for Travel Insurance?

Don’t forget to arrange health insurance before heading to Italy. The easiest and the most reliable travel insurance is  Safety Wing Travel Insurance . Get it before your trip to avoid unnecessary troubles that might ruin your holidays!

TIPS FOR VISITING

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Thursday 19th of October 2023

Bon giorno Anna, Dzień dobry. I was there in September 2023 for the first time. Lots of people everywhere and very hot but I'm glad I visited.

I had no choice but to fly to Treviso from Corfu, Greece. It is not that far to the bus terminal on Venice. About a 40 minute bus ride for 12 euro. I would definitely do it again.

You are right about walking. I never walked so much over so many bridges. I take it as an opportunity for getting to know a city better.

-Keep on traveling!

jackryanwills

Tuesday 20th of August 2019

The Gondolas experience was well described and excellently put forth, detailed information about the hotels and stay. The blog was quite informative.

Tuesday 13th of November 2018

Great preview and wonderful tips. I've been there twice and loved both trips. Though expensive it is best to stay in Venice rather than Mestre because Venice tourist crowds dissipate in the evening as well as early morning. Venise is even more magical in morning and evening light - without the maddening crowds.

Chris Deviney

Monday 15th of October 2018

I'm new to your blog Anna. Great information. I have two weeks in January for possible travel for my girlfriend and myself. Of all the places you've been, does anyplace stick out as a place to definitely consider in January specifically (potentially, but not exclusively, with diving as an option too)? Thanks.

Tuesday 16th of October 2018

Are we talking about Italy or in general?

Murano Glass

Sunday 15th of July 2018

Great tips for visiting Venice – they helped me a lot on my trip. One of my favorite things was visiting the furnace in Murano. P.S. love the pictures!

Pocket Wanderings

Let’s explore Venice

Venice travel guide

I don’t think it’s possible to visit Venice and not fall head over heels in love with its inherent magic and irresistible charm.

Despite being overrun with tourists (and believe me, it really is), I really believe that Venice is an unmissable Italian city. I love that it offers something different, with its car-free streets and winding canals. And every nook and cranny feels both rustic and luxurious, all at once.

About the author

Jessie Moore is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures.

Venice is a city of grandeur and inexplicable beauty. It’s a place where marble palaces and gothic palazzi are linked by beguiling bridges and winding canals. All surrounded by the blue waters of the lagoon which sparkles in the sunlight. Venice exudes a creative and vibrant personality that has been enchanting visitors for years.

As the gondolas saunter along the waterways and the palatial domes frame the views, it’s easy to get swept up in the romance of this Italian city. Although a popular destination with starry eyed lovers, Venice is not just for couples. Solo travellers will adore the bustling neighbourhoods and charming Italian hospitality. While groups of friends or family can be immersed in the social scene, exchanging bellini-fuelled conversation over some decadent Venetian cuisine.

While Venice may be one of the best cities in Italy to visit, its beauty comes with a price. That price is the sheer volume of tourists who descend on the narrow streets of the floating city. Despite the mass convergence of visitors, it doesn’t detract from the uncompromising beauty of the city. There are still hidden corners of magic to be discovered – you just need to let yourself get lost to find them.

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How to get to Venice

  • By plane. The main international airport in Venice is the Marco Polo airport (VCE). There is a second airport, the Treviso Airport (TSF), which is situated about an hour away from the city. If you’re travelling from the UK or US, several airlines offer direct flights during the high season. From the UK, it’s a relatively quick flight of around two hours from the south. The three main UK airlines servicing Venice include British Airways, Easyjet and Ryanair.
  • By train. If you’re travelling domestically, the train might be your best option as it provides comfortable travel without the stress of driving. The central train station in Venice is the Venezia Santa Lucia railway station. It has great connections from other popular Italian cities like Milan, Rome and Florence.
  • By car. Driving to Venice is not a particularly good option, seeing as the city is mostly car-free. It is possible to leave your car in one of the available parking lots. You can then get a bus from the parking lot to the city.
  • By vaporetto. Since Venice is situated in a lagoon, you can’t actually reach the centre of Venice by any of the above means. The last stretch of any journey to Venice requires a vaporetto (water bus) or a private water taxi. Although more expensive, the water taxi is definitely worth it. There is no other way to get that rock-star feeling of arriving in Venice in style – sunglasses on and wind blowing through your hair!

Beautiful Venice

How to get around Venice

Unlike many European cities, getting around Venice is limited to just two options: by foot or by water. Venice is the largest pedestrian city in the world but it’s still compact enough to get everywhere on foot easily enough. Aside from being a pretty healthy way of getting around, it’s also the best way to take in all the sights and really soak up the Venetian atmosphere.

If you travel by water then there are several modes of transport:

  • Vaporetto (water bus). Where walking isn’t an option, the next best mode of transport is by water bus. This is a public service that runs 24/7. A water bus service runs every 10 minutes from the stops on the Grand Canal. It’s also the best way to get to the nearby islands of Burano, Lido, and Murano – if this is part of your itinerary then get an ACTV Water Bus Pass, as it is the most cost effective option.
  • Water taxi. Essentially a private water bus, these water taxis can fit up to 10 people. Water taxis are rarely used by the locals because they do have quite high fixed prices. They are commonly used for getting from the airport to the centre of Venice, which usually works out at good value for money if there is a group of you travelling. It’s by far the most glamorous airport transfer you will ever experience!
  • Gondola. The gondola is not technically a mode of transport, as you can’t use a gondola to get from A to B. They return to their boarding station, so gondolas are very much used for sightseeing and the general experience. Gondolas are also helpful for exploring narrow canals and other hidden areas that are not easily reachable by water bus or on foot.

Best time to visit Venice

Venice highlights, st mark’s square.

The Piazza San Marco – St Mark’s Square – is the only square in Venice to boast piazza in its name, with the others being campos or piazzales . This is testament to its scale and splendour, which is well documented in photos and tales of the historic square. In fact, St Mark’s Square was described by Napoleon as ‘the world’s most beautiful drawing room’, showcasing the very best that Venice has to offer. 

The square itself is filled with architectural design to excite even the most seasoned traveller. St Mark’s Campanile towers above the skyline, while Doge’s Palace ( Palazzo Ducale ) exhibits the very best of gothic architecture. Or marvel at St Mark’s Basilica ( Basilica di San Marco ) and the lofty clock tower ( Torre dell’Orologio ). 

Just beware that if you fancy stopping for a coffee in this iconic square, you’ll need deep pockets. Some will consider the experience to be worth every penny, while others would rather grab a coffee in a more authentic spot away from the tourists.

Grand Canal

The Grand Canal flows between St Mark’s Basilica and Santa Chiara to split the city in two. Lined by spectacular gothic and renaissance buildings on either side, the winding channel offers a fantastic way to glimpse the grand architecture of Venice. 

Take a journey along the Grand Canal to appreciate all that Venice has to offer. You can ride along the canal from one end to another using Venice’s floating public transport system, the vaporetto. Smaller motor boats also journey along the Grand Canal, providing informative tours of Venice’s best-known tourist attractions.

For an extra special take on this infamous Venice landmark, take to the waters at night. See the magic of Venice after dark, as the city lights up and reflects off the canals.

Burano Island

Burano is an island located in the Venetian lagoon, famed for its bold and eccentric style. Peruse Burano’s rainbow streets by foot or water for the perfect Instagram opportunity and some fabulous photos!

Be sure to call in to see the island’s most famed property, Bepi’s House ( La Casa di Bepi Suà ). You’ll be greeted with bright and vivid colours coupled with striking and bold shapes. It’s not everyone’s cup of tea to live in, but it’s definitely a must-see for anyone travelling to Venice. 

While the other popular Venetian island of Murano is known for its glassmaking, Burano is known for its lace making. To learn more about this fascinating trade, head to Museo Merletto. If this doesn’t take your fancy then be sure to visit the adorable artisan shops along the canals.

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Frequently asked q uestions

How long to spend in venice.

Venice is a city that deserves at least 2-3 days to explore. A day trip will not do the city justice, so aim to stay for a minimum of two nights if you can. A longer stay will enable you to enjoy the city at a slower pace, which you’ll be grateful for when you’re battling your way through the tourists!

Do I need to pre-book attractions in Venice?

Yes, I highly recommend pre-booking any of the major tourist attractions in Venice, such as Doge’s Palace. You can still visit without a booking. But you will likely have to wait in painfully long queues, especially if you’re travelling during the peak summer months. You can book either a guided tour or a ‘skip the line’ ticket.

Are there any beaches near Venice?

Many are surprised to hear that Venice has a beach. Lido is one of Venice’s islands and has an 8 mile stretch of sandy beach. So if the sun is shining, the temperature hot, and you fancy a relaxing break, then head to Lido. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the sound of the Adriatic waves. 

Is Venice a good destination for solo travellers?

Despite its reputation as an unwaveringly romantic destination, Venice is one of my favourite  European cities for solo travel . Perhaps it’s the lack of public transport or the small, compact feel, but it feels wonderfully safe. Plus, Italian hospitality is always on point, making any independent travellers feel very welcomed.

Is Venice expensive?

Yes, Venice is an expensive city. It’s understandable given the sheer volume of tourists it draws in every day of the year. Avoid dining out in the tourist areas and head off the beaten track. Not only will it be cheaper, but you’ll get a more authentic Venetian dining experience.

How many Michelin star restaurants in Venice?

There are six Michelin star restaurants in Venice. The Glam Enrico Bartolini restaurant has an impressive two Michelin stars. Zanze XVI, Wistèria, Quadri, Oro Restaurant and Local each have one coveted star.

Are there Christmas Markets in Venice?

A number of the piazza in Venice play host to Christmas markets each year. Wander the charming wooden cabins serving all kinds of local goods and food. Some of the Christmas markets have ice rinks to really get you in the festive mood. The main Christmas markets in Venice take place at Campo Santo Stefano, Campo S. Bartolomeo, Campo San Salvador, Campo Manin and Camp San Luca.

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Pocketwanderings.

Jessie Moore

Luxury accommodation picks

With its opulent architecture and palatial buildings, it’s no surprise that there are a number of luxury hotels in Venice . Whether you prefer classic or contemporary, big or boutique, here are some of the best places to stay in Venice.

Gritti Palace Bedroom Suite

THE GRITTI PALACE

Belmond Suite Venice

HOTEL CIPRIANI

Hotel Danieli Venice

HOTEL DANIELI

Hotel Metropole

HOTEL METROPOLE

Venice bars

Cantine del Vino Già Schiavi

ENOTECA SCHIAVI

Il Mercante Bar Venice

IL MERCANTE

Bar Longhi Gritti Palace

HARRY’S BAR

Venice landmarks

Whether you’re after breathtaking Gothic architecture or quaint islands, Venice is awash with remarkable landmarks and attractions. Here is my pick of the best things to see in Venice .

Beautiful Grand Canal Venice

GRAND CANAL

Doges Palace Jessie

DOGE’S PALACE

Ponte di Rialto

PONTE DI RIALTO

Burano

BURANO ISLAND

Venice travel inspiration

Planning a trip to Venice? Have a read of these Venice travel articles to help you plan your visit.

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I just adore Italian cities – the history, the romance, the food – but deciding which one to visit can be somewhat of a challenge! Two of the most popular Italian cities are Venice and Rome,

Jessie in Venice

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Venice is an iconic jewel of a city and one of my personal favourite destinations in Italy. While Italian, it is so quintessentially unique that I think it’s possible to think of Venice as a

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If you’re visiting one of Italy’s most famous cities, I know you’ll be spending a lot of time in the traffic-free centre on foot. I therefore think that finding the perfect pick among the best

Pocket Wanderings is a luxury travel and lifestyle brand run by London-based content creator, Jessie Moore. Here you’ll find a community of fellow wanderlusters and adventurers.

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Justin Plus Lauren

3 Days in Venice: The Ultimate Long Weekend in Venice

Posted on Published: February 29, 2024  - Last updated: March 8, 2024

Categories Blog , City Guides , Europe , Italy , Travel Guides

3 days in Venice is the perfect amount of time to spend in this beautiful and unique collection of islands. There’s nowhere else in the world quite like Venice, and I hope you get to experience this wonderful place as soon as possible.

Justin and I have traveled to Venice twice now, so we have loads of tips to help you enjoy the most perfect long weekend in Venice. This Venice travel guide is full of practical tips and advice, as well as a Venice 3 day itinerary that you’re welcome to steal for yourself.

Posts may be sponsored. Post contains affiliate links. I may be compensated if you make a purchase using my link.

3 Days in Venice

It’s best to be prepared in advance so you don’t waste your precious time in Venice worrying about the logistics. Get your accommodation, transportation, and attraction tickets settled far in advance to avoid disappointment (I’ll show you how!).

Table of Contents

The Perfect 3 Days in Venice Itinerary

3 days in Venice itinerary

With this Venice travel guide, I will help you plan the best 3 days in Venice itinerary. Feel free to follow this guide completely or change it around to your liking. You’ll see all of the main Venice attractions, visit the islands of the Venetian lagoon, and check all of the popular Venice activities off your bucket list.

I’ll also show you a few off the beaten path places to visit in Venice where you’ll avoid the crowds and enjoy a more “local” experience. At the same time, I’ll also show you some intriguing places to visit in Venice that you might not have heard about before, as well as where to take some of the best photos.

On top of that, I’ll give you some Venice restaurant recommendations, Venice hotel recommendations, transportation tips and tricks, and we’ll end your 3 days in Venice with a romantic gondola ride. All set? Let’s travel to Venice!

Getting Around Venice: A Brief Transportation Guide

Bus to Venice from airport

It’s easy to get to Venice, whether you’re arriving by plane or train. Here’s where you can search for cheap flights to Venice . If you’re flying into the Venice Marco Polo International Airport (VCE), you can make your way to the city easily on the bus. I suggest buying your airport transfer ticket in advance.

In the airport, take exit D to get to the bus stop. Once you’re outside wait at platform 3 for the bus marked Venezia Diretta. Pull up your ticket on your phone (or print it out, if you choose) and the transit employee will scan it for you.

ACTV Venice

With that said, I recommend buying this unlimited vaporetto three day pass instead of the single airport transfer ticket. It includes your bus transfer from the airport, as well as three days of unlimited travel on the water taxis in Venice. You’re likely going to be using the vaporetto quite a bit, and you won’t need to pay for a new ticket each time you use it.

For more information on the public transportation system in Venice, I highly suggest that you take a look at our Venice transportation guide . You can learn how to navigate the public transportation system in Venice with ease before you arrive, so you know exactly what to do (and avoid getting a ticket inadvertently).

3 Days in Venice Itinerary: Day One

Water taxi on the Grand Canal

On day one of this 3 day itinerary for Venice, we’ll be visiting some of Venice’s most iconic attractions. If you only have one day in Venice, I suggest following these plans. It includes all of the must sees in Venice, including Piazza San Marco, St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, the Grand Canal, Rialto Bridge, and more.

If you are seeing Venice in a day and a half or two and a half days (arriving in the afternoon of the first day), I suggest switching this day with day two or day three. I suggest starting your day as early as possible in St. Mark’s Square as it will get busier as the day goes on.

Conversely, you can also delay your trip to St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace to later in the day as the crowds dissipate. Just make sure you leave yourself enough time before the Doge’s Palace closes at 18:00. They are very firm on the closing time and will make you leave right as the clock strikes six!

If you only have one day in Venice and you’re looking for an easy and fun way to get a good overview, I suggest booking the Walks of Italy – Venice in a Day tour. You’ll enjoy skip the line tours of St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace, explore quieter neighborhoods on a walking tour, and end the day with a memorable gondola tour.

Take a Self-Guided Walking Tour of Venice

Doge's Palace

Venice walking tours are an excellent way to familiarize yourself with your new surroundings and check many place off your bucket list. I always suggest taking a walking tour when you first arrive to a new place.

Around Tours is quite innovative as you won’t be taking a tour at a set time with a guide. Instead, these are self-guided and interactive walking audio tours that you can take anytime. This is a great way to explore Venice at your own pace without a strict schedule.

With Around Tours, you’ll unlock the Venice tour of your choice and take it at your leisure. Need to take a break? It’s easy to pause and pick up from where you left off. These tours are flexible and budget-friendly, a phrase we don’t hear often when it comes to popular tourist cities like Venice.

Visit Piazza San Marco (St. Mark’s Square)

Piazza San Marco

St. Mark’s Square, or Piazza San Marco, is the largest and most important square in Venice. It’s one of the most beautiful piazzas in Italy and home to several famous landmarks , including St. Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace, Campanile San Marco, and the Bridge of Sighs (technically not within the piazza, but part of the Doge’s Palace).

Visit in the early morning if you can. Many of the major attractions in the city of Venice are all here, so it can get very busy and crowded. It’s the heart of Venice with many main attractions, so it’s important to plan this part of the trip as much as you can.

While Venice is an incredibly safe place to visit at all hours of the day, I do advise you to watch out for petty scams. On our first trip to Venice, a man approached me and put bird seed in my hand. All of the pigeons flew at me and landed all over me! Of course, he demanded money for this “privilege” and I don’t know why…but I gave him money!

Piazza San Marco

It’s easy to get distracted in such a beautiful place, but try your best to be aware of your surroundings. And don’t let random strangers put bird feed in your hand (unless you want this to happen for some reason).

Skip the Line at St. Mark’s Basilica

St. Mark's Basilica

St. Mark’s Basilica (Basilica di San Marco) is one of the most beautiful churches in Europe. There are incredible mosaics, amazing statues, and important relics of Saint Mark. You can tour the church for free, but the main line has a very long wait. Be prepared to wait for at least 45 minutes to an hour.

St. Mark's Basilica

It’s best to secure a skip the line ticket in advance so you don’t need to spend a good portion of your day waiting to enter the church. Typically, you could pay a small fee to reserve tickets in advance. Unfortunately, you can no longer book these online ahead of time.

For this reason, I suggest planning to visit St Mark’s Basilica as part of a tour. Your tour guide will take you into the church and allow you to skip the line. Avoid the long lines by joining a guided tour. It’s one of the best things to do in Venice, so you don’t want to miss it.

Walks of Italy offers a fantastic tour that includes exclusive access to St. Mark’s Basilica and VIP balcony access, as well as a tour of the Doge’s Palace. Book your tour for their Legendary Venice experience.

This tour offers the whole package: skip the line and visit St. Mark’s Basilica, a guided tour of Doge’s Palace, and a city walking tour. Book this tour here .

For something a little more unique and different, you can take an after hours tour of St. Mark’s Basilica. You’ll visit all of the general access areas, plus you’ll see special access areas like the crypt. This is exclusive to Walks of Italy, and it is an intimate and insightful experience. Book your tour here .

There are a few things to know before you visit St. Mark’s Basilica. First, you must wear appropriate clothing. You must cover your shoulders and legs (above the knees) with a scarf or sarong. You aren’t allowed to take any photos inside the cathedral. Furthermore, you cannot bring large bags or backpacks inside with you. There is a safe and secure luggage storage next to the Basilica entrance where you can leave your bags.

Take a Tour of the Doge’s Palace

Doge's Palace Venice

Another main attraction at St. Mark’s Square is the Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale). The Doge of Venice was the supreme magistrate and leader of Venice for over 1000 years. Doges were appointed to hold their positions for life. You can tour many elaborate rooms of the palace to learn more about the political and social history of Venice, view brilliant works of art, and see amazing architecture.

Doge's Palace Venice

While you can purchase a ticket simply to enter Doge’s Palace, it’s best if you book a tour with a knowledgeable guide. Your guide will tell you many interesting facts, historical notes, and stories that you may otherwise never learn. This is one of the best places in Venice, a spot where you don’t want to merely skim the surface.

Doge's Palace Venice

There’s this tour that I mentioned above that combines a trip to Doge’s Palace with St. Mark’s Basilica. You’ll be able to witness the elaborate architecture of the palace courtyard, walk up the richest staircase in the world called the Golden Staircase (Scala d’Oro), and you’ll walk across the actual Bridge of Sighs itself.

Doge's Palace Venice

Justin and I really enjoyed the regular Doge’s Palace tour with a guide because we learned so much about the history of Venice. We also viewed so many priceless artifacts and grandiose palace rooms. On another trip to Venice, we booked the Secret Passages tour .

Doge's Palace Secret Passages Tour

Also known as the Secret Itineraries tour , you’ll go beyond the typical palace tour to explore the secret passages of the palace. You’ll navigate through hidden prison cells, torture chambers, and learn about Casanova’s legendary prison escape. The main tour features fine art and the grandeur of the palace rooms, while the Secret Passages tour gives you insights to some of Venice’s dark secrets. Intrigued? Book your tour of the Secret Passages.

St. Mark’s Bell Tower (Campanile di San Marco)

Campanile di San Marco - St Mark's Bell Tower

Another thing to do in St. Mark’s Square is climb the bell tower, Campanile di San Marco. The original bell tower was built in the 9th century, but it got struck by lightning and caught fire many times. In 1902, it completely collapsed. But, in 1912, it was reconstructed exactly as it was.

Campanile di San Marco - St Mark's Bell Tower

You can only buy tickets to the St. Mark’s Bell Tower on site. There is an elevator that takes you straight to the top, so you don’t need to climb any stairs. From the top of the Campanile, you can savor some of the most epic views of Venice and the lagoon.

3 Days in Venice: See the Bridge of Sighs

Bridge of Sighs

The Bridge of Sighs is an enclosed bridge that was constructed in 1600. It passes over the Rio di Palazzo, connecting the interrogation rooms in the Doge’s Palace to the New Prison. These small glimpses of Venice through the tiny windows along the bridge were the prisoners’ last views of the outside world as they were moved to their jail cells.

Bridge of Sighs

Viewing the Bridge of Sighs is one of the most popular things to do in Venice. It will get crowded and you may need to wait your turn in order to snap a photo.

Lunch in San Marco, Dorsoduro or San Polo

Pizza from OKE Zattere

Now that you’ve toured St. Mark’s Square, it’s time to leave the piazza for lunch. I don’t recommend dining in St. Mark’s Square as it is very touristy and expensive. You can walk to your lunch spot by foot or take the vaporetto (water taxi) if it’s farther away.

For lunch, you can venture south into Dorsoduro for pizza at OKE Zattere. You can also try the Mediterranean restaurant, Frary’s, in San Polo. Pizzeria L’Angelo in San Marco is another pizza spot that I can recommend if you’re looking for great food on the go (it’s a takeout spot).

You’ll find all of these lunch recommendations and more in my vegan guide to Venice . Feel free to choose any restaurants from the vegan guide if you are looking for vegan and vegetarian eats in Venice.

3 Days in Venice: Rialto Bridge and Grand Canal

Rialto Bridge

For the remainder of the day, continue to explore Venice at your own pace. Go for a walk along the Grand Canal, admiring the architecture and watching the boats. Using your transportation pass, you can hop on the water bus and go for a ride down the Grand Canal, too.

The Grand Canal, Venice

Be sure to catch some glimpses of the Rialto Bridge (Ponte di Rialto) and then walk across the Rialto Bridge itself. It’s the most famous bridge in Venice, and the oldest of all the bridges that cross the Grand Canal. There are little shops on the Rialto Bridge itself with high-end wares, like jewelry and Murano glass.

3 Days in Venice: Rialto Market

Once you cross the Rialto Bridge into San Polo, it’s time to visit the Rialto Market (Mercati di Rialto). This is a lively market with fruits, vegetables and fish, and it’s where most of the local Venetian citizens buy their fresh produce. The market has been around for 1000 years.

Unless you are staying in an apartment and cooking your own meals, you likely won’t buy too many food items from the Rialto Market, but it’s still well worth the trip. Surrounding the Rialto Market, there are lots of souvenir shops with all kinds of trinkets and gifts from Venice. If you’re looking to do some shopping for yourself or loved ones back at home, head over to San Polo around the Rialto Market.

Dinner at La Tecia Vegana

This is my very favorite restaurant in all of Venice, and I think that you should dine here (even if you aren’t vegan). La Tecia Vegana transforms traditional Venetian cuisine into plant-based versions. After dining here, it quickly became one of my favorite restaurants in the world.

La Tecia Vegana

La Tecia Vegana has seitan and polenta, vegan lentil burgers, eggplant lasagna, vegan tiramisu, and more. It’s all of your favorite Italian eats without the meat. We ate ravioli, herb potatoes, garlic chicory salad, and the most delicious tiramisu.

You will need to make reservations to dine at La Tecia Vegana, especially if you’re visiting on the weekend. It’s a really popular place with limited seating. Definitely dine here and you won’t be disappointed!

3 Days in Venice Itinerary: Day Two

During our three days in Venice, we spent the second day exploring the islands of the Venetian lagoon. Murano and Burano are not to be missed. Murano is the island of glass, and Burano is the island of lace. I recommend spending a relaxing half day at both islands. If you have 3 days in Venice, at least a half of one of those days must be spent in Murano and Burano.

The Island of Murano

Murano, Italy

From the vaporetto, our first stop was Murano. To reach the island, take a vaporetto to the Fondamente Nove stop and transfer to line 12. The boarding area is just beyond the Donà Bridge. The first stop on line 12 is the island of Murano. If you stay on the boat, you’ll eventually reach Burano.

While we found it very easy to travel to Murano and Burano on our own, you can also take a guided tour to Murano and Burano. Transportation is completely sorted out for you, and you can travel without any planning necessary. Travel to the islands with a guide, visit a glass factory, and wander around the colorful homes of Burano. Book your tour here .

Glass blowing demo in Murano, Italy

When you’re in Murano, wander around the canals and streets, visiting little shops and cafes. At the island of glass, we went to a free glass blowing demonstration by a master. Afterwards, you’ll have the opportunity to purchase Murano glass, but we didn’t feel pressured into buying anything.

You should also visit the clock tower in San Stefano square and go for a walk along the canal. Murano isn’t very big, so you’ll be able to see it all in a short period of time. Check out my complete guide to Murano .

The Island of Burano

Island of Burano, Italy

Burano is known as the island of lace, but I remember it mostly for the bright and colorful buildings. No two buildings can be painted the same color next to one another, and all paint colors must be approved by the government.

I don’t think I’ve ever seen such a concentration of rainbow colored houses all in one place. If you’re looking for things to do in Venice, visiting Burano is an absolute must. Take a stroll around the canals and snap a ton of photos.

Island of Burano, Italy

Once you’re off the canal and down the side streets, it will be a little quieter. You’ll find beautiful spaces wherever you turn. Even though you can find things made of lace for sale, we bought a painting of the buildings themselves as that was most memorable to us.

It’s easy to combine a trip to Murano and Burano into one half day trip. Here’s how we spent our day in Burano . For a slightly longer day trip (6 hours), you can add Torcello to the mix. Torcello is the first settlement in the Venetian Lagoon. Check out the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, which dates back to 639. Book your tour here .

Lunch in Murano or Lido

Depending on when you visit, I suggest stopping for a lunch break in Murano or Lido. Murano has a great Venetian restaurant, Trattoria al Corallo, a family owned and operated establishment with delicious eats.

If you decide to wait until you venture over to Lido, there are two restaurants with vegan options. Buddha Soul Resto is an Asian and Italian restaurant, and El Pecador is a fast food restaurant inside a double decker bus.

The Island of Lido

If you’ve got some time and energy, take the vaporetto to Lido. We never got the chance to do this, as we spent a little more time in Murano and Burano instead. Lido is the beach resort island of Venice. If you’re visiting during the summer months, you can relax on the beach.

If we had enough time, we were planning to rent bicycles and ride all over the island. However, we didn’t want to rush it. We didn’t feel there was enough time to savor Burano, Murano, and Lido all in one day. You might have a different experience or wake up a little earlier than we did.

When planning what to see in Venice, we felt that Lido was the spot we could sacrifice if we had to miss out on something. If you have 4 days in Venice, you should make the trip over to Lido to spend the day there.

Pellestrina, Italy

For another great off the beaten path idea, you can take the vaporetto farther south in the Venetian lagoon to the island of Pellestrina . It is a quiet island where you can go for a bike ride along its shores. We visited Pellestrina as a stop on our Italian river cruise . Add Lido or Pellestrina to your 4 days in Venice itinerary.

Dinner in San Marco

Back on the main island, it’s time for dinner. I suggest stopping at Le Cafe, which has a spacious patio where you can eat, drink, and people watch. We really loved the charming atmosphere and vibes here in the evening.

Le Cafe in Venice

Wine Bar TeAmo in San Marco is another great spot that has a separate vegan menu. There are four main dishes: vegan lasagna, vegan burger, soy balls with vegetables, and a soy cutlet with quinoa. Being a wine bar, you can expect that this restaurant has an extensive wine list. You can view more restaurant recommendations here .

3 Days in Venice Itinerary: Day Three

Cannaregio

On day three of this 3 days in Venice itinerary, you’ll go for a big wander around the districts of Venice that we haven’t explored much yet. This includes Cannaregio, Castello, and Dorsoduro.

I encourage you to wander up and down all of the narrow streets and feel free to “ get lost “! You can never really get completely lost in Venice. You’ll eventually hit a dead end at a canal or find yourself at the edge of the lagoon.

Castello, Venice

You never know what you might stumble upon, whether it’s an interesting building, alleyway, or doorway. The city is so full of amazing history. The best thing you can do is wander around, seeing as much of it as you can.

Adding this element of surprise, it’s not such a bad idea to explore Venice without a solid plan. With that said, I have some key sights in Cannaregio, Castello, and Dorsoduro that you may want to see. So, feel free to be as organized as you’d like with your 72 hours in Venice…or not!

Coffee and Pastries at Torrefazione Cannaregio

Torrefazione Cannaregio

Torrefazione Cannaregio  is a coffee shop in Cannaregio, Venice, that’s very vegan-friendly. There is a limited amount of indoor and outdoor patio seating. This is one of the oldest coffee shops in Venice where they roast their own coffee (for over 80 years).

Torrefazione Cannaregio

This place is super popular and you might not get a seat. That was the case for us. However, we ended up sitting at the edge of the canal with our coffees and croissants and it wasn’t a problem! They have vegan croissants and pastries that are really yummy.

Ponte Chiodo: A Rare Bridge in Venice

Canals in Venice Italy

In the middle of Cannaregio, Ponte Chiodo is an interesting old bridge that is unlike any other in Venice. Known as the Nail Bridge, it is one of two remaining ancient bridges without railings. The other bridge, Ponte del Diavolo (Devil’s Bridge) is on Torcello island.

Ponte Chiodo is one of the only bridges that doesn’t connect two streets. It leads directly to a private building owned by the Chiodos, which is now home to a bed and breakfast.

Calle Varisco: The Narrowest Street in Venice

It’s also a fun adventure to find the narrowest street in Venice. To reach Calle Varisco, you’ll need to meander around a maze of quiet alleyways. Google Maps is really helpful to find this one!

Calle Varisco, narrowest street in Venice

Eventually, you’ll reach this extremely narrow street that dead ends at a canal. It’s a really fun photo spot!

Ponte dei Conzafelzi: Views of a Unique Building

Ponte dei Conzafelzi

If you love visiting Venice for its architectural wonders, head over to Ponte dei Conzafelzi in Castello. This Venetian bridge offers a view of a unique building that’s between two canals. It’s another great place to take some Instagram-worthy photos in Venice.

Ponte dei Conzafelzi

I mean, pretty much all of Venice is worthy of any Instagram gallery. But, it’s a one-of-a-kind spot in Venice that’s worthy of a trip if you’re exploring.

Libreria Acqua Alta: A Beautiful Bookshop

Libreria Acqua Alta

We stumbled upon one of the best bookstores called Libreria Acqua Alta . This is a must see in Venice. It’s the only bookstore that has a gondola inside it, filled with books. This bookstore is prepared for a flood , with books stacked in tubs and boats.

Libreria Acqua Alta

At the back of the store, walk up a small staircase made of old books for an awesome view. There are also some cats that live at the shop. Even if you only have 3 days in Venice, make a point of stopping by one of the most unique bookstores in the world.

3 Days in Venice: Castello and the Gardens

Castello, Venice

Castello is a Venetian district where you can escape the crowds. You’ll find that locals hang out in Castello and its greenspaces (yes, Venice has parks and gardens, surprisingly!). The main streets in Castello, like Via Giuseppe Garabaldi, are lined with cafes and restaurants with no shortage of patios.

Castello, Venice

There are lots of narrow streets off the canal where you can view picturesque and typical Italian scenes. Residents drape their laundry across the streets, and you might spot a cat or two running around. This area of Castello starkly contrasts the scenes you’ll find around the Rialto Bridge and Piazza San Marco. You might have these streets all to yourself.

Giardino della Marinaressa

There are a number of public gardens in Castello, in the far southeast corner of the island. First, Giardino della Marinaressa is a small garden with sculptures and public art. Like the gardens I’ll be mentioning here, it runs along the edge of the lagoon.

Giardino della Marinaressa

There’s another large path and greenspace beyond the Giuseppe Garibaldi Monument. Go for a stroll down this main path, lined with trees and the backs of colorful homes.

Giardini della Biennale

Giardini della Biennale is another large park and garden in Castello. It’s home to the Venice Biennale Art Festival, which started back in 1895. There are 30 permanent pavilions dedicated to countries from around the world and created by renowned architects.

Parco delle Rimembranze

Lastly, Parco delle Rimembranze is a waterfront park that features a path lined with tall pine trees. This is a great retreat from the hustle and bustle of Venice, and also a great place to enjoy a picnic. Soak up views of the lagoon and simply relax.

Lunch at Sullaluna

Sullaluna

Sullaluna  is a cozy Italian bookstore with a bistro with limited indoor and outdoor seating. The restaurant is entirely vegetarian with vegan options on the menu. The menus are split into vegetarian and vegan options.

You can find two vegan menus: one of small plates (“vegan croutons”) and main courses (“vegan plates”). We loved this delightful vegetarian bookstore cafe in Cannaregio, and it’s a great lunch stop during your 3 days in Venice.

3 Days in Venice: Explore Dorsoduro

Dorsoduro

Dorsoduro is another district in Venice that we really loved. Walk around the canals and streets in Dorsoduro at any point in your 3 days in Venice itinerary. You can fit this into your schedule on day 1 if there’s time (La Tecia Vegana and OKE Zattere are in Dorsoduro) or towards the end of day 3.

Dorsoduro

For more attractions in Venice, you can visit a museum or a palace in Dorsoduro. There’s the Gallerie dell’ Accademia , with its great collection of Venetian paintings. If you’re more into modern art, check out the Peggy Guggenheim collection.

If you love churches, be sure to see Santa Maria della Salute or Gesuati. The giganic palazzo, Ca’ Rezzonico, is another amazing place to visit. It’s all up to your own personal interests when deciding what to do in Venice.

3 Days in Venice: Take a Gondola Ride

Justin and Lauren on a Gondola Ride in Venice

We spent our last evening in Venice taking a romantic gondola ride . If you’re traveling as a couple, a gondola ride is such a memorable and magical moment to share together. There’s a great debate on whether or not you should take a gondola ride in Venice. It’s really up to you. It is a little on the expensive side, but I love doing those iconic things sometimes.

Gondola Ride Venice

We opted to take our gondola ride at dusk, which was even more romantic as the sun began to set. Even though you can catch awesome views of Venice from the vaporetto, it’s a whole other experience to take a gondola ride.

Gondola Ride Venice

Justin and I booked a gondola tour that had a musician and a singer, which made the experience even more romantic. Please note that you will be sharing your gondola with two other couples / four other people. It is possible to reserve a gondola for two for a more private experience.

Dinner in Venice

For dinner, you can head back to Cannaregio for a meal at GAM GAM Kosher Restaurant. It is an Israeli restaurant in the Jewish ghetto area of Venice, and it’s been around for nearly 20 years. You can find hummus, falafel, couscous, and more.

Basara is a Japanese restaurant in Dorsoduro, and it’s perfect if you don’t feel like eating any more pizza or pasta. They’ve labeled all of the vegetarian choices on the menu, and many of these are vegan-friendly. Who knew that you could find good sushi in Venice?

Of course, you’re welcome to stop at any restaurant that you find along the Grand Canal. You really can’t go wrong with pizza or pasta anywhere in Venice. During your 3 days in Venice, you’re going to eat a lot of delicious food and be happily full!

See More Photos From Venice

Browse our entire gallery of travel photos in one place. You can purchase prints, canvas art and other housewares made from any of our photos here, too.

Where to Stay in Venice: Hotel Abbazia

Hotel Abbazia

For a hotel that’s comfortable, affordable, quiet, yet in the middle of all the action, we recommend that you stay at Hotel Abbazia . Located in the Cannaregio district just steps from the main Santa Lucia train station, Hotel Abbazia is a wonderful place to stay in Venice.

Hotel Abbazia

Hotel Abbazia has hospitable and friendly staff. The man who works at the front desk is extremely nice and helpful. It’s a pretty standard hotel room without many frills, but we spent very little time in the hotel anyway. This hotel is comfortable, clean, and safe. It’s a great place to rest your head at night. There are large windows with lovely views across the rooftops of Venetian homes.

Even though Hotel Abbazia is steps from the bustling Santa Lucia train station and Piazzale Roma, it’s a really peaceful place. Once you walk down the narrow alleyway from the main street, the crowds dissipate and it’s not noisy at all.

Hotel Abbazia

The inner courtyard garden was my favourite spot at Hotel Abbazia. It’s covered in greenery and there are some small lemon trees growing as well. You can relax at this secluded gem if you’re looking for some downtime as you explore Venice. Plus, you’ll likely have it all to yourself!

BOOK YOUR STAY | READ MORE REVIEWS

More Places to Stay in Venice: An Apartment in Dorsoduro

Apartment in Dorsoduro, Venice

On our first trip to Venice, Justin and I stayed at a luxurious apartment in the Dorsoduro district. We loved staying in Dorsoduro , especially if you’re looking to be situated in a less touristy area. We were still within a short walk of all the main tourist attractions, yet it didn’t feel overrun by visitors. In the mornings and evenings, we mostly saw locals walking their dogs or children playing soccer in the little piazzas.

Unfortunately, the apartment where we stayed is no longer up for rent. But, there are plenty of other places to stay in Dorsoduro that look really nice. Here are three that I suggest that you check out: Accademia Apartments R&R , Venice Salute Appartamenti , and Dorsoduro Charme Apartments . And if the place we stayed ever becomes available again, I’ll update this post to reflect that!

View All Accommodations in Venice on a Map

Want to see all accommodations in Venice, including hotels and apartments? You can compare locations, prices, and amenities by using this handy map. Input your travel dates to see what’s available and click on each property to learn more.

Frequently Asked Questions About Venice

I’m sure you have lots of questions about planning a trip to Venice, Italy. Whether you spend 3 days in Venice, 4 days in Venice, or a week in Venice, you simply won’t run out of things to see and do. Here’s my advice on preparing for the best trip to Venice.

I recommend spending 3 days in Venice. While you can get away with seeing the main attractions in Venice in a day, take the time to explore Venice over three days to get a true feel for this magical destination. Three days in Venice allows you to see most of the main island, as well as Murano and Burano.

Visit St. Mark’s Square and the Grand Canal on day one. Spend day 2 on the islands of the lagoon (Burano and Murano). On day 3, visit the lesser frequented districts of Cannaregio, Castello and Dorsoduro.

Venice is the City of Canals or the Floating City. It’s unlike anywhere else in the world. Wander from district to district across small bridges over the canals, and around its narrow city streets. The architecture is incredible, and you have to take an iconic gondola ride.

Venice is busiest between May and August, although the beginning of May wasn’t terribly busy when we traveled there. Try to avoid Venice on the holidays and look up Italian holidays before you plan your trip. There are fewer crowds from September to November, and the weather is still nice. Keep in mind that Venice begins to flood between October and January, making it less than ideal to visit.

Getting up really early in the morning will help you avoid the crowds. Also, buy skip the line tickets to popular attractions when it’s possible. I also suggest wandering over to the less busy areas of Venice, like Cannaregio, Dorsoduro, and Castello. Most of the crowds flock to the main tourist spots around Rialto Bridge, the Grand Canal, and St. Mark’s Square.

Yes, Venice is incredibly safe. There aren’t any unsafe neighborhoods or sketchy areas. Like always, be aware of your surroundings and don’t leave your valuables unattended or in plain sight. Watch your belongings the most in crowded areas and at the Santa Lucia train station. We felt perfectly safe walking around Venice at all hours of the day, even at nighttime.

For your next Italy trip, be sure to add Venice to the travel plans. With 3 days in Venice, you can see many Venice landmarks without rushing it too much. It’s all about striking a balance. You don’t want to rush around from place to place. Yet, you don’t want to miss out on anything.

If you’re looking for what to do in Venice, this Venice itinerary provides a great foundation to see many stunning sights, and leaves you wanting more for next time.

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How to spend 3 days in Venice for an amazing trip! With this Venice 3 day itinerary, we share our travel plans that you're welcome to steal!

Lauren is the full-time travel blogger and content creator behind Justin Plus Lauren. She started Justin Plus Lauren in 2013 and has travelled to 50+ countries around the world. Lauren is an expert on vegan travel as one of the very first vegan travel bloggers. She also focuses on outdoor adventure travel, eco and sustainable travel, and creating amazing travel itineraries for cities and small towns.

Thursday 10th of October 2019

I love Venice,very romantic!Le Café in Campo San Stefano my favourite for dinner!

Wednesday 25th of January 2017

Those gorgeous candy colored houses are to die for!!! Thanks for the informative post - 2017 travel goals definitely include Venice!!

Wednesday 18th of January 2017

I really enjoyed your itinerary! Just curious to know what service or tour you used to visit Murano, Burano & Lido? Or did the standard ACTV tickets take you there.

Steve Tierney

Thursday 28th of April 2016

If you go by a church, and there are many, hop in. You might find some exquisite artwork. It is getting harder and harder to get more remote to avoid throngs but worth the effort. You may wish to buy a 24 hour waterbus ticket to get around.

Friday 18th of March 2016

A perfect 3 day itinerary!

Venice is best in autumn and winter. Here's how to make the most of the floating city

The Grand Canal boats to avoid, the best aperitivo and the perfect private island hotel for a long weekend in Venice.

The Grand Canal boats to avoid, the best aperitivo and the perfect private island hotel for a long weekend in Venice.

Venice needs little introduction. Everyone says you should visit at least once in your lifetime so I’d wanted to go for years. But Venice had never felt worthy of a special trip to Italy. Now that I’m living in Italy as an expat , it felt like the time to pop my Venice cherry.

I didn’t do much research or planning for my trip. This turned out to be my first mistake and a real rookie error. Aside from asking a couple of travel journalist friends for tips, I decided to just let the trip unfold.

The upshot? I liked Venice but I didn’t love it.

I think that by planning out my day differently, packing the right items and avoiding some of Venice’s tourist traps, I could love it next time.

So here is the perfect daily schedule for Venice. Read on for details on what to do each step of the way.

When is the best time to visit Venice?

My number one tip is to avoid Venice in the summer, so from June to September. I was there at the start of July and it was just far too hot.

Friends back home assume I must be used to the heat, with two Italian summers under my belt. Granted I am a hot weather person, but I live by the sea - Venice is a totally different ball game.

Yes, the city is surrounded by and arranged around water but there’s no sea breeze here. The streets you’ll spend your days walking seem to emit heat; you can feel it radiating off the old stones. Don’t get me wrong, Venice’s paved streets are beautiful, but they are not cooling .

Daniel Corneschi

Instead, I would suggest visiting Venice in winter or spring - with a few exceptions. I’ve heard it’s magical at Christmas so that would be a good time to go. But the city’s streets are packed for the annual carnival in the second two weeks of February so avoid that time if you hate crowds. Easter is a beautiful time all over Italy so April would be a great time to visit Venice.

The best schedule for the perfect summer’s day in Venice

If you decide to brave Venice during the summer, learn from the Italians and plan your day so that you’re indoors (in a semi-dark room, if you want to go full native) during the hottest hours of the day.

This is the perfect schedule for a summer’s day in Venice:

7.30am: Traditional breakfast of croissant and coffee in one of Venice’s many courtyard cafes

8.30-10.30am: Wander the iconic streets before the crowds start

10.30am-12.30pm: Sightseeing indoors, in a church, museum or art gallery

12.30-2pm: Lunch in a shaded courtyard

2-4.30pm: Back to your accommodation for an afternoon nap or swim in the pool

4.30-6.30pm: Grand Canal sightseeing with a few stops along the way

6.30pm: Apertivo time - a cool-off drink and snack at a bacaro

Evening: Dinner - remember you don’t have to worry about chilly evenings here. You can happily sit outdoors late into the evening.

Venice’s unmissable food and drinks for breakfast, lunch, dinner and aperitivo time

Since moving here, I’ve learnt that Italians don’t tend to eat a large breakfast . Whereas lunch and dinner are sit-down affairs, most Italians eat breakfast standing up in a cafe or street corner bar.

If you go for this option, a croissant or pastry is ideal with a coffee. I am not foolish enough to start prescribing coffee type because that is a national debate I do not want to wade into. However, as an Englishwoman it is my birthright to profess brick-coloured PG Tips with milk and no sugar as the only tea anyone should be drinking.

Italians don’t tend to go in for light lunches but if you really can’t stomach a big bowl of pasta you can opt for a 'tramezzino'. This is a white bread sandwich that is somehow far superior to those sold in Britain.

A more traditional lunch would begin with a pasta dish like spaghetti with clams or 'bigoli' in salsa made from anchovies and onions. Venice’s speciality is fish , so stick with seafood for a second course like grilled prawns or roast turbot.

Dinner is similar to lunch, but if you can squeeze in a starter too then try Venice’s classic 'sarde in saor.' This sweet and sour dish features sardines in an onion sauce.

Before dinner, don’t forget to partake in northern Italy’s much loved 'aperitivo' tradition. Early in the evening, head to a bar for a drink and small snack designed to whet your appetite for the coming meal.

Olilynch

The most popular aperitivo drink is a spritz made with bitters like Aperol, Campari or Venice’s own Select. You’ll see bars on every corner selling them. The cheapest I saw was €2 but they tend to be closer to €6. Accompany your drink with 'cicchetti', little snacks that can be anything from meatballs to mortadella on a small piece of bread.

The Fondamenta della Misericordia in the northern Cannaregio district is a lively place for aperitivo. Down the wide canalside street, there are several traditional Venetian bars called 'bacari', the perfect excuse for an aperitivo crawl.

Don’t forget to pack this one thing when heading to Venice

Venice is a stylish city but I beg you, don’t succumb to the temptation to pack your sexiest heels or smart leather shoes. There is only one word that should determine your footwear choice: comfort. Take the shoes that are so worn in you forget you’re wearing them. Even a pair that only slightly rubs will become your nemesis when pitted against Venice’s uneven paved streets.

“But what about the heels I want to wear with my flowy summer dress?” I hear you cry. Sure, take them- in your handbag, to be put on at the door of the restaurant. To reach anywhere in Venice , you’ll have a walk - remember there are no cars here. Yes, that really means no taxis (apart from costly water taxis), no Ubers, nothing. So it’s comfortable shoes from dawn til dusk.

Even in the shade, the sun in Venice is brutal because it has so much water and light-coloured buildings to reflect off. You’ll hardly blend in with the stylish Italians if you’re the colour of a tomato, and I’ve heard skin cancer isn’t a whole lot of fun.

So follow the classic Australian public health campaign when packing - slip, slop, slap. Slip on a top or shirt (the more skin it covers the better), slop on sun cream , and slap on a sun hat.

Where to stay in Venice: Treat yourself to a private island hotel

Even if you avoid Venice during the hottest hours of the day, it’s still an intense city. The sights, sounds and smells are exhilarating but if you’re anything like me, you’ll also crave some calm and quiet time to recharge.

San Clemente Palace Kempinski

This is what makes the hotels on the islands dotted around Venice’s lagoon so ideal. San Clemente Palace Kempinski is, as the name suggests, a former palace . It feels world’s away from bustling Venice but is in fact just a 10-minute boat ride. The hotel runs private boats to and fro throughout the day and into the evening.

The classical style of the palace has been retained in the acres of marble, sweeping staircases and polished wood in the bedrooms . There’s a beautiful church in the grounds - it doesn’t look like much from the outside but it’s well worth a quick look inside. It’s right by the boat jetty and Acquerello Restaurant so very easy to find.

San Clemente Palace Kempinski

The pool area is ideal for whiling away a hot afternoon, just you and your book . It’s right next to the Buddha Bar so cool drinks and food are on-hand. I recommend the sun loungers in the garden . This grassy area is so peaceful that you’d have no idea you’re just across the water from one of the most touristed places in Europe.

Breakfast in the leafy shaded courtyard of the Insieme Restaurant was my favourite part of the day. The buffet breakfast does not disappoint and it’s on until 11am at the weekends, allowing for a lie-in and time to sample every station.

Sustainable travel: Play your part in keeping Venice pristine

On the second day of my trip, I made my next mistake: moving at anything faster than a snail’s pace. Under the midday sun, I ran to make it back to San Marco pier for a waterbus that didn’t, in fact, leave for 20 minutes.

My lungs were burning, the blister on my foot had got even worse and I thought I might collapse from thirst. On the verge of tears, I retreated into the ‘Giardini Reali’ or Royal Gardens just behind San Marco pier. Initially, I just wanted some shade but I actually found a calm and cool haven that you wouldn’t believe is only 100m from one of the most famous squares in the world. Better still, I found the garden’s water fountains where I refilled my bottle and, once rehydrated, felt a little more human.

Venice has more than 100 free water fountains. They’re stationed close to all the tourist hotspots so they’re one of the easiest ways to do your bit for the environment. Venice has recently urged tourists to refill reusable water bottles at these fountains rather than buying single-use plastic water bottles. So they’ll save you money, as well as cutting down on rubbish that ends up in the canals.

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Arriving in the city by train rather than plane is another brilliant way to reduce your carbon footprint. There are train connections into Venice from all the big cities in Italy, from where you can connect to cities all over Europe

You’ll arrive into Venezia Santa Lucia, the city’s main train station. It’s at the foot of the Grand Canal so you couldn’t be closer to the action, and you can jump on an ACTV waterbus from here to get to any other part of the city.

Another way to give back to Venice is to pay any fees that are asked of you. A new tourist tax is being introduced in 2023 so if you fall into the categories of people who need to pay this make sure you do.

Venice is not a cheap destination so I can understand people not wanting added costs. But preserving the beauty of its many historic buildings and its viability as a liveable city comes at a cost. Make sure we’re not the last generation who gets to enjoy it.

  • To survive climate change, Venice needs to rethink its outdated flood defenses
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Grand Canal: Skip the gondolas and take this type of boat instead

You always hear about the Grand Canal but I hadn’t grasped just how much it acts as the artery of the city. It’s the lifeblood of every industry here - with no cars or roads everything has to be transported in a boat on the canals. Postal deliveries, equipment, rubbish, building materials, workers and everything else you can think of rely on the canals to reach all the homes and businesses here.

When I was sitting by the Grand Canal for dinner one evening, an ambulance speed boat, complete with siren, flew past, paramedics poised onboard ready to jump off. It was soon followed by a rowing team out for an evening training session. Water taxis are also frequent.

Mael Balland

Then come the gondolas, of course. One of the symbols of the city, but sadly best avoided if you’re on a budget. At €80 for half an hour they’re insanely expensive.

The gondoliers pushing tourists around on them look hot and worn out, not least because they have to wear a uniform of the famous stripy t-shirt plus long trousers. They must get close to overheating on days when everyone else is in shorts and sleeveless tops. Plus, you’ll get a fairly generic tour of the city, often finding yourself in a gondola traffic jam around popular sights.

My top alternative is to skip the gondolas and take the ACTV waterbuses instead. These are the main type of public transport that Venice locals use every day - they hop and off them like you would use a local bus. ACTV has 30 different lines so you can use them to get anywhere you want to go, and can hop on and off at one of the 120 floating stops - don’t worry, they’re very stable. Full details on ACTV lines are here . Oh, and stand or sit at the back of the boat for shade and the best views.

Pietro Rampazzo

Just remember that Venice’s residents use these buses for essential journeys like to school and work. Don’t block the passage to get a good photo and, if there’s a queue at the waterbus stop, let elderly people in front so they don’t have to wait for the next boat.

You’ll use the ACTV waterbuses more than you think, especially when it’s hot and you don’t want to walk between the sights. So my top tip is to buy a one day or multi day pass. These give you access to ACTV buses, trains, trams and boats. They make the price of each journey cheaper and mean you don’t have to queue for a ticket each time. Details of ACTV single tickets and passes are available here .

Ruth Wright was a guest of San Clemente Palace Kempinski .

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What to See in Venice: A Complete Guide to Venice Italy

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what to see in venice, by top travel blogger What The Fab

There’s really nowhere else in the world like Venice, Italy. It’s totally wild to see this floating city that was built on a bunch of islands and piles of wood in a lagoon of water around 402 AD.

Some people love Venice and think it’s magical and beautiful, and others think it’s a tourist trap to be avoided. I kind of agree with both—it is really beautiful, and there are a shit ton of tourists crammed into the small streets.

While I’m so glad I went and I really enjoyed visiting, I likely won’t feel the need to go back in my lifetime. Just being honest!

Today I’m sharing all my recs for what to see in Venice in a complete travel guide with all the top sights and restaurant picks.

Two to three full days in Venice is perfect, as it’s very walkable and compact so you can cover a lot of ground in one day and do all the things that a trip to Venice wouldn’t be complete without!

Getting around in Venice:

So fun fact, there aren’t any cars in Venice. I totally did not realize that before our trip.

I mean, I know that in the heart of Venice there were no cars because the streets are so small and it’s all canals, but I didn’t realize that the only way to get around is by private water taxi, Vaporetto (Venice’s ferry lines and public transportation), and good old fashioned walking.

When we arrived at the train station, we were bombarded with guys trying to sell us a private water taxi. We asked if water taxi or regular taxi was faster, and he laughed at us and told us there are no cars in Venice. ?

Btw, when you first arrive via the train station it can be a little overwhelming, but take your time to figure out the ferry if you don’t want to spend €65 on a water taxi.

The ferry is pretty easy and convenient. It’s also great for getting around during your trip.

Restaurants in Venice:

Venice is fairly small, and a lot of people visit it. Be sure to make restaurant reservations when possible.

If you aren’t able to get reservations, you can also try getting to the restaurant right around when it opens, and they’ll usually have a table or two available for early walk-ins.

Be sure to also check beforehand for opening dates and hours—many restaurants will have random days of the week where they’re closed, like Sunday/Monday. 

venice travel blog 2022

Pssst, heading to Venice? Don’t miss these travel guides to help you plan your trip!

Best Restaurants in Venice Venice Airbnbs Things to see in Venice

what to see in venice, by top travel blogger What The Fab

Where to stay in Venice:

We stayed at the Hotel Danieli and it was absolutely perfect. The location is ridiculously central in the San Marco sestiere (neighborhoods that make up the main parts of Venice), and the hotel is literally steps away from San Marco Square and several of the main attractions that you’ll definitely want to visit.

The hotel itself is stunning. It used to be a palace, and our room’s felt like a bedroom in Versailles. I’ll be writing up a full hotel review about this place because it was just amazing and such a unique hotel experience.

Hotel Danieli is also part of Marriott, so it’s a great spot to spend those Marriott Bonvoy points. Any of the hotels in San Marco are going to be very centrally located for a trip to Venice.

What to See in Venice: A Complete Travel Guide

Day 1: what to see in venice.

venice travel blog 2022

Start with a walking tour

I always love doing a walking tour in a new city to get acquainted with it, learn about its history and have more context, and get recommendations from our guide.

But in Venice I feel like it’s especially helpful to start your trip with a walking tour. Everyone says to “get lost in Venice” and wander the small streets and oh isn’t it magical. And we did that the first day—and got truly lost and it got a bit frustrating.

The scale of Google Maps takes some getting used to, and what looks like a regular block on your map might be just 10 feet in reality in Venice, so it’s very easy to miss streets.

Venice can also feel a bit like Italian Disneyland at times, with long lines, hordes of tourists, and its miniature street scale.

Going on a walking tour helped us learn more about Venice’s fascinating history, and that context really helped the city feel more interesting and less touristy for me.

Lunch at Caffè Centrale

Grab lunch at Caffè Centrale , a modern and cool restaurant with doors that open up right to the water. They serve innovative dishes and are known for the quality of their meats and fresh seafood.

Located just a couple minutes walk from Piazza San Marco.

Doges Palace

The Doge’s Palace is a must-visit in Venice. This palace is where the Doge of Venice (the leader of the former Venetian Republic) lived and conducted business, and it’s now a museum.

When you visit, you’ll be able to explore the courtyard, apartments, masterpieces in the museums, countless other grand rooms and chambers, and the prison.

From the prison you’ll be able to walk across the Bridge of Sighs, where prisoners took their last glance out at Venice before being interrogated and likely hung.

After your visit to the Palace be sure to view the Bridge of Sighs from the outside too—it’s really very pretty even though it has a morbid history. Give yourself 2 – 3 hours to see the Doge’s Palace—it’s huge.

venice travel blog 2022

Saint Mark’s Square

Head to St. Mark’s Square and grab a table at one of the many cafes. Settle in for some people watching, an espresso, or an aperitif.

Some of the cafes have live music, which makes for a lovely atmosphere.

venice travel blog 2022

Dinner at Ai Mercanti

Ai Mercanti was recommended to us by a colleague of Omied’s who grew up in Italy, and we had a lovely dinner here.

The menu is very Venetian in nature—lots of fresh seafood and delicious pastas—and the restaurant is a very romantic setting.

Their cod dish in a coconut lemongrass soup was absolutely delicious. Do try your best to call ahead and make reservations—we saw group after group turned away as the restaurant was full.

Day 2: What to See in Venice

what to see in venice, by top travel blogger What The Fab

Murano, Burano, and Torcello Tour

There are several islands off the main island of Venice that are definitely worth visiting! Murano is known for all of its glass art, and you can visit the Murano Glass Factory, explore the cute island, and visit all the glass blowing shops there.

Burano is another fun island to check out, and it’s basically and Instagrammer’s dream. All of the little houses and buildings are painted so cute and colorful, and it makes for such a fun backdrop.

Grab lunch in Burano at the fritto misto place (fritto misto = fried mixed seafood) right by where the ferry pulls in. So good. Torcello is another island (next to Burano) that people visit for a bit to see its cathedral and Ponte del Diavolo (Devil’s Bridge).

You can either take the 12 ferry to visit all three of these islands, or book a tour for a half day of sightseeing .

what to see in venice, by top travel blogger What The Fab

San Marco Basilica

Once you’re back to the heart of Venice, pay the San Marco Basilica a visit.

It’s absolutely gorgeous and dripping with gold plated fixtures. While the dome and ceilings are stunning, I personally couldn’t stop staring at the floor—the tile mosaics are just out of this world.

what to see in venice, by top travel blogger What The Fab

Campanile Bell Tower

The bell tower is right across from the San Marco Basilica, and it offers the best views of Venice.

As an added bonus, you don’t even have to climb hundreds of stairs to go up the tower—there’s an elevator! Buy tickets ahead of time so you don’t have to worry about lines .

what to see in venice, by top travel blogger What The Fab

Dinner at Ai Promessi Sposi

Ai Promessi Sposi was probably our favorite dinner spot in Venice. We loved their yummy pastas—try the squid ink pasta, it’s a Venetian favorite!

There were also a ton of locals hanging out by the bar for cicchetti (Venetian-style tapas/small plates), so this would be a really fun spot to try that if you’re not able to make it for dinner.

Day 3: What to see in Venice

Rialto bridge and rialto market.

The Rialto Bridge is the oldest and most famous bridge in Venice. It’s really beautiful and really crowded.

But even so, definitely worth visiting. Afterward, you can check out the Rialto Market, where you’ll find stalls selling lots of fresh foods, including seafood, meats, cheeses, and charcuterie, for cheap prices.

venice travel blog 2022

Acqua Alta Book Shop

Swing by this adorable book shop to peruse its books and old magazines, and get a picture on its staircase made of books. Too fun.

what to see in venice, by top travel blogger What The Fab

Grand Canal

Being out on the Grand Canal offers views of Venice from a different perspective.

You can take the Vaporetto along the Grand Canal and soak up the views of beautiful Venice along the way to your next destination.

Lunch at Estro – Vino e Cucina

Estro – Vino e Cucina is known for being one of Venice’s best wine bars. Stop by for lunch since you’ll be exploring the Dorsoduro neighborhood.

You can do a sit-down lunch or try their Cicchetti—if you haven’t had Cicchetti yet by this point in your trip, opt for this as you have to try it while in Venice.

You’ll usually see little finger foods in a glass case or window, and you can just point to the ones you want to try. Just don’t call them tapas!?

what to see in venice, by top travel blogger What The Fab

Basilica Santa Maria Della Salute

Head down to the beautiful Basilica Santa Maria Della Salute , right at the entrance of the Grand Canal.

It’s really impressive from the outside and a major landmark in Venice, and the inside is just as stunning. The entrance inside the church is free, but you do have to pay if you want to view the art in the sacristy.

Peggy Guggenheim Museum

Peggy Guggenheim dedicated her life to gathering 20th-century contemporary art.

In her collection, you’ll see works by artists like Picasso, Pollock, and Dalí, and also learn more about Peggy Guggenheim’s life.

what to see in venice, by top travel blogger What The Fab

Go on a Gondola Ride

You can’t visit Venice without going on a gondola ride, right? The only reason I agree with that line of thinking is because I learned of a much cheaper way to ride a gondola (it was a tip from our helpful walking tour guide!).

The usual private one-hour gondola ride will cost you ~$90. Kinda ridiculous, but if you’re into it go for it—how many times are you in Venice?

A much more reasonable option is to reserve a shared 30-minute gondola ride for $35, where you’ll be in a gondola with a total of six people. Then lastly, if you’re like you know what this whole gondola thing is a total rip off and I’m not giving them my money, but I also kinda do want that shot on a gondola…this last option is for you.

There are a few places where you can get on a gondola for €2 just to cross the Grand Canal (which only takes a couple of minutes). These are called traghettos, and you can find them in three locations: Campo Santa Sofia, Santa Maria del Giglio, and San Tomà.

We went with the €2 option because I really just wanted to get that shot for Insta of me on a gondola.

I just made sure to hop on the gondola first to get the prime spot in front of the dude in the striped shirt, and Omied snapped away to get the shot!

Hop over to San Giorgio Maggiore

Just over the lagoon, you’ll find San Giorgio Maggiore and the Giudecca sestiere.

In San Giorgio, you can visit the Monastery, the Church, and also the bell tower, which gives you fantastic views of the main part of Venice just across the water.

Cannaregio for dinner and drinks

To end your trip, explore one more Venice Sestriere—Cannaregio. This neighborhood is known for its 16th-century Jewish ghetto and is an area that more locals hang out in.

Stroll around and grab drinks at a cafe. For dinner, a yummy option is Trattoria Dalla Marisa, where you’ll find good, down-to-earth food as well as outdoor seating with very charming views along the Canale di Canareggio.

We had a lot of fun in Venice and I’m glad that we got to visit. And while you’ve probably heard the phrase, “Venice is sinking!” the truth is it’s been sinking since the day it was built, when the weight of the city started pushing down on the mud and dirt it was built on.

Over the last 100 years, Venice has sunk nine inches, and experts say that due to global warming, sea levels will rise and cover Venice by 2100.

So while it’s not going to sink in our lifetime, it’s still a destination to add to your bucket list.

Planning a trip to Venice? Get inspo from my Venice guides here .

15 Things You Must See in Venice The Best Venice Airbnbs The Best Restaurants in Venice Italy Hotel Danieli Venezia Best Places to Visit in Italy: 16 Unforgettable Destinations

Here is a list of locations you must see: Doge’s Palace , Saint Mark’s Square , San Marco Basilica , Campanile Bell Tower , Rialto Bridge , Grand Canal , Basilica Santa Maria della Salute , Peggy Guggenheim Museum , San Giorgio Maggiore , and Cannaregio .

Ideally, you want to spend about a week in Venice to really explore the city and see what it has to offer.

The best time to travel to Venice is during the months of April, May, September, and October. This is the time you will encounter more beautiful weather.

venice travel blog 2022

Elise Armitage is an entrepreneur and founder of What The Fab , a travel + lifestyle blog based in California. At the beginning of 2019, Elise left her corporate job at Google to chase her dreams: being an entrepreneur and helping women find fabulous in the everyday. Since then, she’s launched her SEO course Six-Figure SEO, where she teaches bloggers how to create a passive revenue stream from their website using SEO. Featured in publications like Forbes, Elle, HerMoney, and Real Simple, Elise is a firm believer that you can be of both substance and style.

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Top 19 Things To Do in Venice in 2024

Sean Finelli Last Updated: March 18, 2024

The mesmerizing canal city of Venice is an iconic destination to visit in Italy . From food to the iconic Rialto Bridge and the famous St. Mark’s Square, there are amazing activities for anyone to enjoy. Find out our favorite things to do in Venice that you just can’t miss.

Pro Tip: If you’re planning a trip to Venice, bookmark this page in your browser. This way you can easily circle back and find it when you’re ready to set things in stone. Otherwise, check out our dedicated page on Venice and our tours and activities in Venice .

The Best Things To See and Do in Venice, Italy

Venice is an incredible city that almost doesn’t feel real as you walk through it. The city began when a number of Romans escaped to the small island to evade barbarian tribes who were ransacking the Italian peninsula. In Roman fashion, they built up the island cluster and became one of the most prosperous trading communities in all of the world for hundreds of years.

There are tons of touristy things you can do here in Venice, but that doesn’t make them any less incredible for first-time or long-time visitors to Venice. For instance, a walk across Rialto Bridge is practically a must just to appreciate its historic beauty.

And of course, other top things to do in Venice include enjoying an evening at Lido Beach, finding tasty cookies, and visiting the stunning Doge’s Palace. Don’t stop now—keep reading to discover the top things to do in Venice that must be on your list.

How to See St Mark's in Venice + Doge's Palace

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1. Take a Tour of Doge’s Palace

the tour guy doge's palace venice tour

The Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale) was first built in Venice in the ninth century for the Duke of Venice but almost nothing remains of that structure today. The majority of what you see today is still ancient—from the 13th and 15th centuries when Venice’s wealth and status grew renowned.

This abundance happened largely due to their trade routes with India and China. Venetians brought back goods like spices and silk that became luxury goods throughout Europe and were mainly distributed through Venice.

The palace is incredible but the behind-the-scenes stories are really what makes it a compelling place to visit. The Dukes of Venice were terrible people, yet somehow dodged the bad reputation. Want to know more? Joining a knowledgeable guide is absolutely the way to go to discover more than you’d ever expect in a palatial building like this.

You can see these key areas within the Doge’s Palace:

  • Giant’s Staircase
  • Great Council Chamber
  • Bridge of Sighs
  • Chamber of Torment
  • Doge’s Apartment
  • Museo Dell’Opera
  • Golden Staircase

Address: Piazza S. Marco, 1 | Admission Cost: from €25 for adults, depending on the type of ticket/access you purchase

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  Doge’s Palace Guide for more resources.

2. Visit Murano Glass Factories

top things to do in venice

I don’t know if I’ve ever had a conversation about Venice without someone bringing up Murano and the famous glass blowing there. If you weren’t aware, glass blowing has been a defining part of Venice’s identity for centuries.

Historically, the glass blowers were forced to move to Murano due to concerns about their furnaces burning so hot in the main city of Venice. It sounds like a demotion of sorts, but these artisans were actually treated like royalty. And you can still witness the evolution of glass at the Murano Glass Museum.

Unfortunately, it’s an island and not walkable from Venice. But it is easy enough to reach Murano Island by Vaporetto, which is Venice’s floating mass transit service.

Reservations are recommended to visit the glass factories, which is why we offer high-quality options for you to visit Murano without hassle or stress. Our island-hopping half-day trip visits both Murano and Burano island.

Address: Fondamenta Marco Giustinian, 8 | Admission Cost: €12

How to Visit Murano & Burano Islands in Venice

Not ready to book a tour? Find out the  best tours of Murano and Burano to take and why .

3. Eat Tons of Cicchetti on a Food Tour

The Tour guy venice food tour

For starters, cicchetti are typical Venetian small plates or finger foods accompanied by a glass of wine or spritz. They are a combination of bread, vegetables, and usually some sort of seafood, which makes sense since Venice is an island.

You can get these little dishes almost anywhere, but cicchetti are not all created equal! Venice can be a bit touristy, so knowing where to go is extremely important. We designed an ideal food tour in Cannaregio as we believe it is the most authentic neighborhood for tasting food and wine in Venice. You can also check out our guide to eating in Cannaregio for great places to eat.

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our article on the best Venice tours to take and why .

4. See the Most Unique Bookstore on Earth: Libreria Acqua Alta

Top things to do in venice

The name Libreria Acqua Alta translates to the “Library of High Water”. This bookstore has been internet famous for years and attracts droves of visitors who love to see the creative way they store these treasured books from the constant risk of flooding in Venice. All their books are situated far above ground level, which is pretty normal, but they are all inside waterproof containers.

If you are thinking, oh, a boring container store—think again. This library went true Venetian and uses a full-sized gondola to hold many of the books for you to look through. They pack their store with interesting reads and titles from all over the world. Out back (pictured above), you’ll find a staircase made out of books that allows you to see into the canal behind the store.

Despite the quirkiness, they have cool vintage books in what is probably the most beautiful bookstore on Earth. I’ve purchased old Italian children’s books for my kids here as well as postcards and other fun stuff. It’s nice to support a business whose shop has become a free tourist attraction.

Address: Calle Lunga Santa Maria Formosa 5176b

5. Stop at a Local, Authentic Artisan Shop

venice travel blog 2022

Just down the street from Libreria Acqua Alta is a little shop that makes some of the most authentic Venetian gifts and crafts you can find on the main island. Each is handmade by the shop owner in the shop. Head inside to get to know him and watch him while he works!

Venice is a city overrun by tourists, so we always recommend supporting the true local businesses who have been here for years and handmake their crafts rather than ordering them like bulk souvenirs. Here at La Bottega di Pre, you can find the most charming magnets, crafted picture frames, vintage hot air balloons, and more.

Address: C. Longa Santa Maria Formosa, 5239

6. Eat Granseola alla Veneziana

the tour guy venice food tour

If you go to Venice and order your usual spaghetti with meatballs or chicken parm (neither of which exist in Italy), you’re making a big mistake. Even pizza in Venice is a no-no since it actually originated some 600 miles south in Naples. One of the saddest things I hear from travelers is that they didn’t enjoy the food in Venice when really, the poor experience was down to expectations that don’t fit the city (or country).

The food in Venice is most definitely unique compared to the rest of Italy, but there are still many great foods to try . Granted, there are lots more seafood options here than in other areas of the country, but that makes the gastronomic experience all the more memorable.

For example, graneseola alla veneziana is a dish based on the famous spider crab. The word granseola comes from the Venetian words granso (crab) and seola (onion). Spider crabs are quite big and many believe the taste to be on par with lobster.

Where to get it : Trattoria alla Madonna

7. Walk Up the Giant’s Staircase

Top attractions in Venice Giants Staircase

The Doge’s Palace was the original home and political center for the Duke of Venice. It’s located just off of St. Mark’s Square and is larger than life. The two-tier gothic colonnades wrap around the building—both inside and out—giving it an impressive look and feel. Once inside, there is a massive courtyard where you’ll find the famed Giant’s Staircase.

Statues of Mars and Neptune stand tall at the top left and right of the staircase, setting the mood for all who climb the stairs. The architecture is built to show the power and economic prowess of the Kingdom of Venice. There’s a lot more to do and see at the Doge’s Palace, but the Giant’s Staircase is so iconic that it deserves its own spot on our list of things to do in Venice.

8. Drinks in Campo Santa Margherita (Dorsoduro)

Campo Santa Margherita best Open Spaces in Venice Parks Square Piazza

Campo Santa Margherita is the largest square in the Dorsoduro district of Venice. It is a long square with many bars and restaurants throughout, which makes it a great place to have an evening drink or plate of pasta. It also happens to be the largest open space in Dorsoduro—one of my favorite neighborhoods in Venice.

Why? Dorsoduro has more of a local feel that really comes out at night. Here you’ll often find lots of local students coming to decompress at the end of their day or week of studies. I definitely recommend dinner in Dorsoduro!

Address: Campo Santa Margherita

9. Taste Delicious Coffee at Florian Caffe

the tour guy st marks venice

This is the most famous and oldest café in Venice. You might have heard about the €20 cup of coffee you can grab when sitting in St. Mark’s Square? Well, I think we are selling the place a bit short if that’s all we think of Caffé Florian. On a trip to a place as iconic as Venice, it’s worth splurging a little for an epic coffee (or drink) at an epic café with an epic view.

Sipping a drink at the famous Caffé Florian means you have an amazing view of the most amazing square in the world. Plus, you’ll be enjoying it in a place with a history of around 300 years. The café was founded back in 1720 by Floriano Francesconi and is widely regarded as the oldest café not only in Italy but in all of Europe. Years after its opening, the name of the establishment changed to honor the owner himself.

Most people choose to sit outside and people watch, but there are also multiple rooms inside that have a history of their own. If you choose to sit inside, ask the waiter to tell you the history of that particular room. You’ll be amazed at how interconnected this café is with world events. So, sit back and splurge just this once on a coffee or an aperitivo and enjoy life the way it was meant to be enjoyed.

Address: P.za San Marco, 57

10. Visit the Island of Burano

venice travel blog 2022

There are four things you need to know about Burano. Lace, risotto de gò , a leaning bell tower, and really colorful houses. The island is super photogenic and full of culture. I highly recommend stopping by when in Venice if you’re here for multiple days.

You can get there by vaporetto (Venice’s floating transport) or by joining one of our tours. The biggest benefit of taking the tour is that planning is so much easier and you’ll learn and see more than you expect. The tour also goes to Murano island to see the glass-making factories, which is pretty cool. Island-hopping is definitely a cool thing to do in Venice.

Not ready to book a tour? Find out the  best ways to visit Murano and Burano .

11. See the Pinault Collection: Punta Della Dogana

Pinnault Collection Punta Della Dogana

François Pinault is a French billionaire and a cool example for any ambitious entrepreneur. He grew up in a rural area and started a timber trading business, which grew out of cutting down trees for his father. Now, he is one of the leading art collectors in the world.

The Pinault Collection has not one but two museums in Venice. They also restored a famous theatre named Teatrino, which had been closed since the early 1980s. We recommend a visit to the Pinault Collection in Punta della Dogana for one very important reason: The location is really cool!

If you speak Italian, you know punta della dogana translates roughly to “customs checkpoint.” The structure is built on the very tip of the Dorsoduro neighborhood , which helps form the opening of the Grand Canal. It is an epic location that offers amazing views for a museum.

Even if you are not a fan of modern art, I still recommend visiting this art collection in Venice as it may change your opinion. The entire building is also a work of art restored by Tadao Ando.

Address: Dorsoduro, 2 | Admission Cost: €18

12. Pop Over to Isola San Giorgio

Church of San Giorgio Maggiore Gardens and Parks

The key to a great trip to Venice is getting off the main island at least once during your trip. Venice is great—don’t get me wrong—but many of the treasures are off-the-beaten paths, which means you’ll need to hope on a Vaporetto.

The main attraction of Isola San Giorgio is the church of San Giorgio Maggiore. It has beautiful architecture and an amazing cloister with a manicured garden that’s very serene.

Another main highlight is San Giorgio Café, which has amazing waterfront seating. You get a cool view of Venice and the San Giorgio Marina. In fact, you can see St. Mark’s Square, which makes it really picturesque! And the other bonus? This island is surprisingly empty, as most tourists don’t know about it. But now you do, so hop on over.

To get there, take Vaporetto (ferry) number 2 from San Marco-San Zaccaria E ferry station. It is one stop to San Giorgio ferry station and the best open space away from the main cluster of Venice.

Address: 30100 Venice

13. Walk Across the Rialto Bridge

Top Attractions in Venice Rialto Bridge

The Rialto bridge is a decorative bridge crossing the Grand Canal in Venice. It is easily the most recognizable bridge in Venice and one of the oldest, so it’s an obvious must-do activity in Venice.

The original bridge was a floating pontoon bridge built in 1181. In 1255, they replaced it with a wooden bridge that lasted quite a while, considering it was a wooden bridge in a humid area. It partially burnt down in 1310 and eventually collapsed in 1444, then was rebuilt and collapsed again in 1524. The idea of building the Rialto Bridge out of stone came up in the 16th century and many great artists were considered, including Michelangelo.

In the end, they chose a local named Antonio da Ponte to build the bridge. Construction began in 1588 and finished in 1591 with what you see today. Antonio’s last name translates to “of the bridge” in English, which is perfectly ironic.

The bridge is one of the most recognizable bridges in the world and definitely something that cannot be missed while in Venice. It’s free to visit and walk across. If you want to get a little more in-depth, we offer a guided tour that explores the area, Rialto Bridge, and St. Mark’s Basilica . It is a great way to help you understand and enjoy Venice!

Address: Sestiere San Polo

Popular Venice Tours

venice travel blog 2022

Best-Selling Tour

Ultimate Venice in a Day with Murano and Burano

The ultimate tour of Venice. You’ll get skip-the-line access to the most important buildings in Venice, plus a gondola ride, and private transportation to the islands of Murano and Burano. It’s a full day of touring that will make for the best memories in Venice ever.

venice travel blog 2022

Top-Rated Tour

Venice in a Day Combo Tour with Gondola Ride

Only have a day in Venice and want to explore the best places? You’ll love this tour that includes skip-the-line access to St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace so you don’t waste time! Not to mention, you’ll wander through the Cannaregio district and learn about Rialto Bridge before floating through the canals on your own gondola.

14. Shop and Check Out the Views at Fondaco dei Tedeschi

top things to do in venice

What is better than a shopping mall with rooftop views from an ornate 800-year-old building? Ok, there are a few things we can think of, but this is a great thing to do in Venice.

The modern structure of this building is a shopping mall where you’ll find lots of luxury goods as well as fantastic dining. The crowning jewel is its rooftop terrace view which you must book in advance . Don’t worry, the rooftop is free to visit, but they do limit visitors to avoid a crowded experience.

Address: Calle del Fontego dei Tedeschi

15. Eat Cookies at Nino & Friends

It’s never a bad time for a sweet treat, and Nino & Friends is, without a doubt, my favorite producer of sweets. People come here for their chocolate but I also love that their store feels magical in addition to the delicious cookies. The brand is originally from Naples, and you might see these stores all over Italy. My wife and kids go nuts for their cappuccino cookies. I highly recommend stopping by their Venice location in between activities.

Address: Salizada S. Lio 5576

16. Drink a Shadow (Ombra)

the tour guy venice food tour

If you go into a bacaro (local bar in Venice) and ask for an ombra , you’ll have firmly established yourself as a local. In popular culture, the bell tower’s shadow (ombra) is the term they use to describe a glass of wine in Venice.

Where did it originate? Fishermen would come back from fishing at midday and have a glass of wine in St. Mark’s Square. To hide from the sun, they’d stand in the ever-moving shadow that the bell tower casts across the piazza. When you ask for an ombra, you should also say bianca (white) or rossa (red). At that point, the bartender will bring you a glass of house wine.

Where to get it : Osteria al Portego

17. Spend an Evening at the Opera

Top Attractions in Venice Teatro La Fenice

Teatre La Fenice is one of the most beautiful opera houses in the world with a deeply difficult past. All of the information below was provided by the opera house.

It was first built in the late 18th century but burned down in 1771. They rebuilt it partially on the land of the Venier family who did not appreciate the theatre. The owners had to sell it and built a new opera house that they named Le Fenice, which means “the phoenix.” The name obviously points to the story of the phoenix rising from its ashes.

They completed it in 1792 and opened with the symphony I Giochi d’ Agrigento by Giovanni Paisiello, which brought fame to the house. In 1836, the opera house burnt down for the second time. After two fires and one lawsuit, the owners decided to rebuild the house for the third time. The opera house opened again in 1837 and patrons described it as even more beautiful than ever before. The third time was the charm!

Famous composer Verdi had a bit of a residence there between 1844 and 1857 where he composed five operas. Many famous composers would follow, including Rienzi, Richard Wagner, Stravinskij, and music by the famed Pavarotti.

It is easily one of the most ornate opera houses on Earth and a treat to visit. You can view their lineup for a fancy night out at Le Fenice opera schedule .

Address: Campo S. Fantin 1965

18. Get Your Sun on at Lido Beach

Best Gardens, Parks & Open Spaces in Venice Lido Beach

When you think of Venice, you normally don’t think of beautiful Italian beaches, but it is still an island with beaches—if you can get to them. The municipality of Venice extends past the main cluster of islands to include many other satellite islands like Murano, Burano, Giudecca, and the barrier island of Lido.

Lido happens to have some great beaches for an afternoon under the warm Italian sun. It’s clear water, nice sand, and lots of restaurants and beach clubs in pure Italian fashion.

To get here, you can take Vaporetto number 1 from St. Mark’s Square (Vallaresso) and get off at Lido (S.M.E). From there, you walk across the island (10 minutes) to the beaches.

Address: Lido Beach

venice travel blog 2022

Where To Stay in Venice

Despite the size of this little island, there are endless hotel options to choose from. We’ve picked the best neighborhoods and hotels to stay in whether you prefer Italian luxury or quiet serenity—or both!

Venice Canal at sunset.

About Sean Finelli

Sean is a co-founder and owner of The Tour Guy and its subsidiary The Roman Guy. He studied finance and statistics, but that is his "Dr. Jekyll" side! His "Mr. Hyde" is in love with travel, art, history, and culture. Sean has read libraries of historical text and believes that all internet content should come from books. A practice he follows!

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Traveling to Venice on a low budget

Known for being a romantic getaway destination, Venice attracts millions of visitors every year who come to explore the canals and lively atmosphere. After visiting the city more than seven times now, we finally feel ready to put together this guide on  how to travel to Venice on a budget , featuring the best things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and more.

Let us start by saying that Venice is not a cheap city overall. Especially with the overtourism that has hit the city in the past one or two decades. In this travel guide, we have gathered our best tips and tricks to make your visit to Venice as budget-friendly as possible, but it is wise to manage your expectations.

travel guide for visiting venice on a budget.

Traveling to Venice on a budget – Money-saving tips

Venice is an expensive destination, so if you will be traveling on a tight budget but still want to fully experience the city, you will have to be mindful of your itinerary.  Planning ahead  is the best thing to do in this situation, as you will be able to make choices on what to visit and organize your schedule to take advantage of the free attractions.

To get you started, we have gathered some practical tips on how to save money for your budget-friendly visit to Venice:

  • Walk everywhere  – transport in Venice is expensive!
  • Avoid bringing large and heavy luggage  with you, if you can.
  • Take advantage of the dates and times when the attractions have  free admission  (more on that later on).
  • Avoid overpriced restaurants  that are clearly going after tourists, with big menus outside and people calling you out on the street. Eat at local rotisseries instead.
  • Make one big meal for the day, and buy snacks on the market or in small shops to keep you satiated through the remaining hours.
  • Don’t waste money buying water bottles  – Venice has several drinkable water fountains.
  • If you want to experience Venice by the water, buy a Vaporetto ticket instead of a Gondola ride.
  • Consider staying in Mestre  (on the mainland) and taking the bus/tram to the city. Accommodations in Mestre are considerably cheaper and the bus ride is very quick and affordable.
  • Avoid traveling to Venice during the high season or important holidays , such as the Carnival in February.  Read more about when to go to Venice.
  • Wander a lot through the canals.  The best thing to do in Venice is entirely free : getting lost in the picture-perfect alleys, and discovering unique shops, and art galleries.

travel to venice on a budget.

Free attractions in Venice to make your trip budget-friendly

Venice is one of the cities that has the highest density of museums, galleries, and churches per square meter. One thing is certain: you will not be bored. In order to make this trip to Venice fit into your budget, here is a short  list of things you can do for free :

  • St Mark’s Basilica  – The visit to the iconic Basilica of Venice used to be free, but as of April 2022 when this article is being written, the admission is now charged 3 €. Entrance is still free for those attending prayers, mass, and services through the side door (Porta dei Fiori).
  • Rialto Bridge  – Another iconic spot in the city of canals, visiting the Rialto Bridge and the Rialto Market is entirely free and a great experience.
  • Enjoy the best views of the Grand Canale from the rooftop at Fondaco dei Tedeschi  – You will need to book a visit ahead and be there on time but trust me, it is worth it. During a 15 min visit, you will have the most amazing views from the top of the Rialto Bridge. They are usually fully booked, and can’t accommodate walk-ins.  Use this link to book your spot.  
  • Bridge of Sighs  – The best view of the Bridge of Sighs is from the Ponte della Paglia and is entirely free of charge. Crossing through the Bridge of Sighs is possible if you pay for the full visit to the Doge Palace and the dungeons. 
  • Basilica Santa Maria della Salute  – Located almost at the old customs buildings, this remarkable church is free to visit. Admission to the sacristy costs 4 €.
  • Explore the Jewish Ghetto  – Located in Cannaregio, this is one of the most interesting areas of Venice. If you feel hungry, make sure to stop for a tasty delicacy in one of the shops.
  • Libreria Acqua Alta  – Tucked away in the Castello neighborhood, this not-so-hidden gem is a must-go if you seek unique locations.

best day trips from venice

Best 3-day itinerary for visiting Venice on a budget

Now that you already know what are the best free things to do in Venice for your budget trip, let us help you plan them through a  perfect 3-day itinerary . We have put together an optimized travel itinerary where you will be able to visit the best locations in a smart way.

Day 1 of the Budget Venice Travel Itinerary

Kick-off this Venice budget trip by crossing off the most touristic spots from your list:  head to St Mark’s Square early in the morning  to catch it still empty. Take your time to explore the buildings in the square, as there is so much to see here – St Mark’s Basilica, the Doge Palace, St Mark’s Campanile, the Correr Museum, the Florian Café, the Astronomic Clock, the Bridge of Sighs and the columns of St Mark and San Todaro.

If you would like to visit the Doge Palace, we recommend buying your ticket in advance  using this Get Your Guide link . The full price is 28 € and the visit is very much worth it, in our opinion.

best time to visit venice

After spending the morning checking these attractions, head to the  Contarini del Bovolo staircase , an architectural masterpiece tucked away in the Venice alleys. Checking the stairs from the outside is free,  but going in will cost you 8 € .

Next, make a stop to see the famous  La Fenice Opera House . This is the most iconic theatre house in Venice, built on 1792 to replace the old San Benedetto Theatre that burned down. In fact, this is the reason for its name – which means “the phoenix” in Italian – referring to the bird that rises from the ashes. It is possible to visit the La Fenice in two different ways, via the theatre tour or when watching an opera performance.

Stop for lunch at Rosticceria Gislon, a very local place with honest local food and affordable prices. If you want to try something local, don’t miss out on the carrozzas. If you are up for a gelato, stop just around the corner at Gelatoteca Suso.

You can make a stop to check out the unique bookshop called  Libreria Acqua Alta , then head towards the Rialto Bridge to explore this side of the city. From the Rialto Bridge, you will have some of the most beautiful views of Venice’s Grand Canale. Take the time to get lost in the alleys of this region as they are some of the most beautiful ones. If you time it just right, you can book the visit to the rooftop at  Fondaco dei Tedeschi  right at sunset time to enjoy it even more (see the view you have from the rooftop in the picture below).

For the evening, we recommend stopping for bites and drinks in the Dorsoduro neighborhood. Around Campo Santa Margherita you will find a lot of options of bars and restaurants to choose from.

transportation in vencie

Day 2 of the Budget Venice Travel Itinerary

On this second day in Venice, we recommend visiting the neighbourhoods and attractions located a bit outside the mainstream tourist path. Start the day in the Cannaregio neighbourhood, making your way to the  Jewish Ghetto . Even though the ghetto takes only a small part of town, it is incredibly important to Venetian history. You can visit the Jewish Museum to learn more about it or get a guided tour.

Cross the Grand Canale through the Ponte degli Scalzi bridge and you will arrive at the sestieri of Santa Croce. Wander the small alleys towards the south, going in the direction of the Accademia bridge. Stop by the  Ca’ Pesaro  on your way, a renowned Venetian art gallery. Even if you do not want to pay for a visit, the building itself is worth checking out. You will see this is one of the most local regions of Venice, with many quiet streets, without too much touristic buzz – which is amazing to see!

Make a stop at the Rialto Market  before noon to see it in full bloom. The fish market in Rialto is quite unique, with many typical catches from the Venetian Lagoon. For lunch, however, we recommend avoiding this region around the Rialto Market since most restaurants are very overpriced and made for tourists. Instead, we recommend getting a bite at a small restaurant in this region of Dorsoduro – you will cross many options along your way.

vaporetto venice

This side of the river is filled with students and young people due to the presence of the  Ca’ Foscari University .

There are also a few interesting museums you will want to check out on this side of the river – the  Gallerie dell’Accademia  and the  Peggy Guggenheim Collection  are two that deserve a mention. The first has an extensive collection of Italian artwork and the second is a well-curated collection of modern art pieces.

Walk until the end of the Dorsoduro until the old customs house called Dogana. From here, you will have a great view of the Venetian Lagoon. Make a stop at the  Basilica Santa Maria della Salute  on your way back. Cross the Accademia Bridge back to the St Mark’s neighbourhood or catch a traghetto.

Don’t know what a traghetto is?  Discover all transport options available in Venice.

Go back to St Mark’s square and through the Riva degli Schiavoni in the direction of the  Venice Arsenal . Take some time to check out the entrance of the Arsenal, which holds strong importance to Venice’s history. During their golden days, the Venetian Arsenal used to build one ship per day, which is super impressive!

Grab an Aperol Spritz to enjoy the end of the day and way for the sunset. The best place to watch the sunset in Venice is right here, in front of Hotel Bucintoro.

Day 3 of the Budget Venice Travel Itinerary

For the last and final day in this Venice Travel Itinerary on a Budget, we recommend purchasing a daily Vaporetto ticket and going for a  day trip to Murano and Burano . During the summer, another alternative is to visit the  Lido  instead and check out their beach bars.

Continue reading:  The perfect day trip to Murano and Burano from Venice.

day trip in murano venice.

Costs breakdown of a 3-day Venice trip

If you’ve read this far, you already understand that Venice isn’t a cheap destination but there are many things you can do to make your trip more affordable. To help you plan the budget for your upcoming Venice trip, here is our cost breakdown:

best time of year to visit venice

Where to eat in Venice

Finding a good place to eat in Venice is not as easy as one would assume so. The number of restaurants that are basically overpriced tourist traps is outstanding, and it may be hard to navigate to find local and good places to eat. Here are a few places we recommend eating in Venice:

  • Rosticceria Gislon : A small rosticcerie where local venetians go to eat. I have learned about this place from my family, who are used to coming here for generations. They serve very honest, affordable, and authentic Venetian dishes. Try the carrozzas and the fish or nero di seppia risotto.
  • Ostaria A La Campana : A very discreet and authentic place located in the middle of St Mark’s chaos. This place is such an amazing find, the food is delicious, well-priced, and extremely local.
  • Muro San Stae : Located in Santa Croce, this place had a very good value for the price. The food was very nice, the service was effective and the restaurant itself had a very nice ambiance.
  • Osteria Giorgione da Masa
  • Osteri ai piè del ponte
  • Bottega ai Promessi sposi
  • Birreria la Corte  (for pizzas)

best neighborhoods to stay in venice

How to get around Venice?

The best way to get around Venice is  by foot.  Not only is it free, but walking around is the only way you will be able to explore the little alleys and feel the true vibe of this city. We strongly recommend taking some time to wander outside of the main touristic paths to explore the hidden corners of Venice.

Since there are no cars in Venice, the public transport system uses the  waterbuses called Vaporettos . You can purchase single, two-way, or daily tickets, depending on how much you intend on using them.

The famous  Venetian Gondolas  are also available at almost every corner. The gondolas can’t exactly be classified as a transport method since they are mostly offered for touristic purposes. The price for a gondola tour starts at 80 €.

Now, if you are wondering about the best way to get to Venice, flying is probably the best choice if you are coming from abroad. The closest airport to Venice is Marco Polo Airport, but there are several others you can consider when buying your ticket. Check out our guide on the  best airports in Venice .

Where to stay during your budget trip to Venice?

Accommodation in Venice will take up the largest portion of your travel budget. You can choose to stay in  Mestre , which is on the mainland, to save some money on accommodation. However, we prefer to stay on the island because it does have a different feeling to wake up here and not have to plan our way back and forth to the mainland.

If this is also your case, we recommend staying in the  San Polo  or  Cannaregio  neighborhoods.  San Polo  is where the Rialto Market is located, and you will have many affordable options of places to stay there. The  Cannaregio  neighborhood is still very local and, therefore, also offers many affordable accommodation options. 

If you want to save on accommodation costs, it is probably smart to stay away from accommodations too close to St Mark’s Square, which are often overpriced. The only exception is if you find a good deal, which is exactly what happened to us when we last visited Venice in 2022. We ended up staying in a hotel only 5min from St Mark’s square for a bargain on the price because we travelled during the low season.

Check our extensive guide on where to stay in Venice with hotel tips for each neighbourhood.

travel to venice on a budget

Ideas for day-trips from Venice

Will you have extra days in the city of canals and don’t know where to go? There are many destinations located only a boat or train ride away from Venice that you can go for an amazing day trip.

Here is a short list of destination ideas for a  day trip from Venice :

  • Murano & Burano

Check more options for tours in Venice

We believe you are now fully equipped to plan the most amazing budget trip to Venice! If you have any other money-saving tricks for exploring Venice without breaking the bank, leave them in the comments below so we can help other travelers too.

Fe & Edo

Organizing your trip

To help you plan your trip to Italy, we have put together our favorite planning resources: 

  • Flights : Get affordable flights to Italy on  Skyscanner.com . 
  • Travel insurance : Make sure you are protected during your trip. We use  VisitorsCoverage  whenever we are traveling abroad. 
  • Renting a car : We always use  Discover Cars  to get the best car deals. 
  • Accommodation : Find the best hotels and apartments on  Booking.com . 
  • Activities : Get fun ideas of what to do and buy unique activities with  Get Your Guide.
  • SIM Card : Stay connected during your trip with  Airalo.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. This means that we get a small commission from any purchase you make, at no additional cost to you!

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Fernanda is the Brazilian half of Mauka. Originally from Rio de Janeiro (Brazil), Fernanda is also part Italian. After having lived in several countries such as the Netherlands and the UK, she ended up moving to Slovenia with Edo. Traveling is her biggest passion and she is always looking for new places to explore - be it on another continent or a hidden hike close to home.

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Headout Blog

Visit Venice with the ultimate Venice Trip Planner

Things to do in Venice Venice Travel Guide Venice Itineraries

Venice, known also as the “Floating City,” is arguably one of Italy's most picturesque cities. The city is known for its mesmerizing canals, beautiful gardens, heritage buildings, architecture, and cathedrals. It’s not hard to fall in love with Venice. With its fascinating architecture, refreshing climate, and a magic blend of people, it's no wonder this dream-like city has captivated so many outsiders. The entire city is an absolute joy to explore by boat. The whole city is so pretty that it makes you want to snap plenty of pictures – and with the endless maze of picturesque canals at your disposal, who could blame you? This Venice trip planner will help you to plan your Venice itineraries, what to pack for Venice, the best day trips in Venice and a lot more.

Best Time To Visit Venice

Rome

To truly experience the city of Venice, you must visit it during one of its best months. April, May, September, and October are the four most pleasant times to visit Venice. These weather-friendly months do not have winters colder than 10 degrees Celsius but are packed with warm sunshine and light winds. These pleasant conditions attract few crowds and help keep your daily visits much more personal and peaceful than they could be in other seasons. Halfway through May is also a great time to visit Venice because the weather is well above freezing with tons of that Mediterranean sunshine.

Read more about the the best time to visit Venice .

Best time to visit Barcelona

Venice Itineraries

Depending on how long you're in Venice for - whether it's just a day or 5 days, we have the perfect itineraries crafted for you. Go through these Venice itineraries and plan your stay well in advance!

venice travel blog 2022

If this is your first time traveling to Venice, you could use some help planning your daily itineraries. Apart from the basic planning (flight tickets, visa, accommodation in Venice, etc.), you'll need to consider your day-to-day activities in Venice - where to go, what to see, how to get there, and more. But fret not, for we are here to help.

1-Day Venice Itinerary

1 day in Barcelona-Gothic Quarter

Rialto Market

1 day in Barcelona-La Rambla

St. Mark's Basilica

1 day in arcelona-park guell

Doge's Palace

1 days in barcelona-sagrada Familia

Gondola Ride

Read In Detail: A Comprehensive 1-Day Venice Itinerary

3-Day Venice Itinerary

3 days in Venice-St.Mark's

Doge’s Palace

3 days in Venice-Gondola Rides

Gondola Rides

3 days in Venice - Rialto Market

Museum & Church Tours

3 days in Venice - Teatro La Fenice

Teatro La Fenice

3 days in Venice-Murano, Burano & Torcello Islands

Murano, Burano & Torcello Islands

3 days in Venice - Lido beach

Read In Detail: A Comprehensive 3-Day Venice Itinerary

Weekend in Venice Itinerary

2 days in Venice-St.Mark's

Packing For Venice

When planning your springtime trip to Venice, you'll want to look at your travel wardrobe in a new light. Many locals in Venice like to dress with a more classic and sophisticated touch. City life tends to be faster-paced here than in other regions of the country because of its high population density, making it ideal for well-tailored suits that are still designed according to the latest trends. The culture of Venice is all about being sophisticated, classic, and appropriate. Neutral colors are a great bet when traveling here, along with fitted and polished items. Weather can change quickly too; in springtime, you should expect temperatures that range from pleasantly cool at night to somewhat warm on sunny days of the month.

Packing Checklist

Travel Packing Checklist

Where to stay in venice.

Every year visitors flock to see Venice’s masked revelers, gondoliers, exotic architecture, and brightly colored palaces. Adventurers can look forward to taking day trips from here when visiting Venice over the festive period. While crowds are common at some of the hot spots across south Italy and Sardinia during this time, there are more than enough rooms for everyone looking for a romantic vacation or get away with friends.

San Marco is one of the most-loved places in Venice. While this busy location offers little in terms of refuge from the masses, a square-like San Marco ensures that you will always be able to find your bearings as you work your way through this picturesque part of Italy’s ‘floating city.’ Take some time to appreciate the history and culture of Venice before or after your gondola ride.

Accommodation on a budget

There is no dearth of budget-friendly accommodations in Venice. Some of the most popular hotels where you can find lodging are Ausonia Hungaria, Hotel Bauer Palazzo, Hotel Ai Cavalieri, Hotel Monaco & Grand Canal, Hotel Canal Grande, and Hotel Antiche Figure among others.

Even if Venice has a low-key nightlife, you can still find some high-class bars and restaurants with live music. The best places to go for late-night entertainment in the Lido area are nightclubs and bars. In Cannaregio, people enjoy a few drinks in the bars along the Fondamenta della Misericordia as it is called where there tend to be cheap and friendly nightclubs with in-house concerts nearly every night of the week. The live music at Venice Jazz Club is a chilled-out place to take in an intimate concert and sip on a cocktail while enjoying your favorite wine or beer.

Shopping hub

When visiting Venice, the famous Italian city of canals, one will be treated to a unique shopping experience. Aside from the many souvenir and clothing shops that can be found within Sandro Botticelli's Renaissance masterpiece, The Birth Of Venus (1486), there are also some great places for souvenir shopping just a short trip away from the city center. To find these hidden treasures on a budget, take a walk along Ca'Palio where you’ll find accessories including wallets, belts, and fountain pens made by local designer Luigi Serafin. A good area for souvenir and gift shopping in Venice is the Campo Santo Stefano street north of St Mark's Square.

Food in Venice

Make sure you try out seafood when visiting Venice. You'll find that this style of eating has been favored by the people in this area for centuries. If seafood isn't your thing, there are plenty of options such as steaks and even sandwiches to be found here too!

Osteria Campo Santa Marina started as a simple sandwich shop but has now become one of the must-visit dining experiences in Venice. Eolo is another restaurant that you need to visit. The restaurant is a classic property with a modern twist and looks aesthetically pleasing. Some other places where you can dine are Al Covo, La Zucca, Terrazza Danieli, and Enoteca Al Volto among others.

Packing Checklist

Public Transportation in Venice 101

Venice travel tips & hacks.

  • Hop on the Gondola Ride and experience the leisurely lifestyle of Venice. Make sure to travel light as you might come across steep bridges. Moreover, while sightseeing in Venice, a piece of heavy luggage serves as a major setback, therefore, it is recommended to pack light and enjoy the beauty around you.
  • Like those old-world travelers who relied on maps to get them where they wanted to go instead of GPS, you'll do just fine. It's surprising what a wrong turn can lead to, so don't be afraid when one presents itself and embrace the challenge as you might unfold various secrets of Venice!
  • Make sure you have enough money to travel the rest of the way into town. Even though a long-term bus or plane ticket takes you directly to the city center, their tickets are less flexible than intra-city transport passes.
  • If you aren't looking for a full four-course meal at a restaurant, then you should check into bacari near the city center. Many bacari serve small portions of food and wine and that will help you save some money.
  • During the summer and spring seasons, you will encounter a few mosquitoes in Venice. Therefore, it is advisable to carry mosquito and bug repellants.

Venice travel tips & hacks

20 Venice Travel Tips & Hacks

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Amulya Chintaluri

Amulya's love for travelling was a natural consequence of her moving around so much as a child. Throw in her love for writing into the mix, and there's no better way to spend her time. A person who collects hobbies like Infinity Stones, she loves reading, sketching, drawing, painting, dry pressing flowers, music, cooking, eating cake, watching TV and sleeping.

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A day trip to Venice will require a reservation — and a fee

The Associated Press

venice travel blog 2022

A tourist takes a selfie in St. Mark's Square in Venice, Italy, in 2016. Starting in January, the city will require day-trippers to make reservations and pay a fee to visit. Luca Bruno/AP hide caption

A tourist takes a selfie in St. Mark's Square in Venice, Italy, in 2016. Starting in January, the city will require day-trippers to make reservations and pay a fee to visit.

ROME — Starting in January, Venice will oblige day-trippers to make reservations and pay a fee to visit the historic lagoon city, in a bid to better manage visitors who often far outnumber residents in the historic center, clogging narrow streets and heavily-used foot bridges crossing the canals.

Venice officials on Friday unveiled new rules for day-trippers, which go into effect on Jan. 16, 2023.

Tourists who choose not to stay overnight in hotels or other lodgings will have to sign up online for the day they plan to come and pay a fee. These range from 3 to 10 euros ($3.15 to $10.50) per person, depending on advance booking and whether it's peak season or the city is very crowded.

Transgressors risk fines as high as 300 euros ($315) if stopped and unable to show proof they booked and paid with a QR Code.

With Waters Rising And Its Population Falling, What Is Venice's Future?

From the archives

With waters rising and its population falling, what is venice's future.

Roughly four-fifths of all tourists come to Venice just for the day. In 2019, the last full year of tourism before the pandemic, some 19 million day-trippers visited Venice and provided just a fraction of the revenue from those staying for at least one night.

Venice's tourism commissioner brushed off any suggestion that the measure would seek to limit the number of out-of-towners coming to Italy's most-visited city.

"We won't talk about number cutoffs. We're talking about incentives and disincentives," Simone Venturini told a news conference in Venice.

venice travel blog 2022

Tourists stroll in downtown Venice in 2016. On many days, the heart of the city is overwhelmed by visitors, who often far outnumber residents. Luca Bruno/AP hide caption

Tourists stroll in downtown Venice in 2016. On many days, the heart of the city is overwhelmed by visitors, who often far outnumber residents.

The reservation-and-fee approach had been discussed a few years ago, but was put on hold during the pandemic. COVID-19 travel restrictions saw tourism in Venice nearly vanish — and let Venetians have their city practically to themselves, for the first time in decades.

Mass tourism began in the mid-1960s. Visitor numbers kept climbing, while the number of Venetians living in the city steadily dwindled, overwhelmed by congestion, the high cost of delivering food and other goods in car-less Venice, and frequent flooding that damages homes and businesses.

Since guests at hotels and pensions already pay a lodging tax, they are exempt from the reserve-and-fee obligation.

With the new rule, Venice aims to "find this balance between (Venetian) resident and long-term and short-term" visitors, Venturini said, promising that the new system "will be simple for visitors" to manage. He billed Venice as the first city in the world putting such a system for day-only visitors in place.

As Tourists Crowd Out Locals, Venice Faces 'Endangered' List

As tourists crowd out locals, Venice faces endangered' list

The tourism official expressed hope that the fee-and-reservation obligation will "reduce frictions between day visitors and residents." In peak tourism system, tourists can outnumber residents 2-to-1, in the city that measures 5 square kilometers (2 square miles) in area.

Venice's resident population in the historic city numbers just over 50,000, a small fraction of what it was a couple of generations ago.

Exceptions to the day-tripper fees include children younger than 6, people with disabilities and those owning vacation apartments in Venice, provided they can show proof they pay real estate taxes.

Cruise ships contribute to the hordes of visitors swarming Venice's maze of narrow streets, especially near St. Mark's Square, when they disembark day-trippers for a few hours. Those visitors will have to pay, too, unless their cruise liner company pays a set fee to Venice.

venice travel blog 2022

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Venice Travel: You’ll Need To Pre-Book From June 2022

Venice introducing a pre-booking system for travel

Following two years of the pandemic, travel is picking up again in Venice. However, the over-touristed city is going ahead with plans to keep the numbers down. In fact, Venice is introducing a booking system for visitors, including an entry fee of up to €10 ($11) for day-trippers.

Venice heading for more sustainable tourism

The recent Easter weekend saw crowds of tourists in its main attractions, the Palazzo Ducale and Piazza San Marco. In fact, Venice gradually got closer to its pre-pandemic visitor numbers , with a peak of 160,000 on Saturday, April 16.

Piazza San Marco, Venice

Meanwhile, over-tourism has been a problem in the city for some time, with more visitors overloading Venice’s delicate infrastructure. Prior to the pandemic, Venice was reaching a crisis point in its battle with over-tourism, with the city recording 30 million visitors in 2019. Many of those visitors were day-trippers, adding little to the city’s tourism purse.

Since that time, Venice has been seeking ways to ease the crowds, while keeping the locals happy. One measure was to ban large cruise ships from the lagoon, but now Venice has other plans. A new booking system is being implemented to regulate the number of tourists entering the city.

How to pre-book your visit to Venice

Venice is launching a new pre-booking system in June, as part of a pilot project. Basically, the system will require tourists to book a visit to the city in advance. Once a booking has been made visitors will receive a QR code to be scanned at electric turnstiles at Venice’s main access points.

Initially, there will be no charge for booking, but from January next year an entry fee system will kick in, requiring day-trippers to pay a single fee of up to €10 ($11) at peak times, including summer. However, on quieter days, the entry fee could drop to €3 ($3.40) but it will generally be around €6 ($6.80) during the off-season.

Gondolas in Venice

Simone Venturini, Venice’s tourism councillor spoke to La Repubblica about the new system. She said the experimental phase will begin in June when day tourists will be invited to book through a website..

“Those who book will receive incentives, such as discounts on entering museums. To determine the access fee, we will set a maximum threshold of 40,000 or 50,000 visitors a day,” she added.

Who has to pre-book entry to Venice?

Basically, everyone visiting Venice will need to pre-book their visit. However, residents and their family members, children under six, and visitors staying at least one night in local hotels will not pay an entry fee, according to the Guardian .

Grand Canal Venice

Residents, students, and workers who travel in and out of Venice on a daily basis will receive a virtual key to the turnstiles. The system will be utilized through an app on their smartphones. Meanwhile, day-trippers will fill the remaining spots each day by pre-booking their entry. Once the maximum threshold is reached, any further day-trippers will be turned away.

Reuters quoted Marco Bettini, Director of Venis, the IT company that created the booking system last year. He said there is a physical limitation on the number of people that can be in the city at the same time.

“We don’t want to leave anyone behind or stop people from coming to Venice. We want people to book in advance, tell us where they want to go, what they want to visit, in order to provide a better quality of service,” Bettini added.

Other measures to manage over-tourism in Venice

Pre-booking entry is part of an ambitious system that tracks the comings and goings of people in Venice. In 2021, the city installed a network of cameras, sensors, and mobile phone data in the city to keep track of visitor numbers and information.

Carnival

The idea of this system is that should the crowds begin to build up in one tourist hotspot, authorities can temporarily restrict access until the crowds ease back. Meanwhile, people can be diverted elsewhere in the city so as not to block pedestrian traffic. However, authorities insist that the new system will be used with “absolute respect for privacy.”

The latest move follows Venice formally banning cruise ships from its historic city center in April last year. This step came after UNESCO warned the city of the damage caused by cruise ships in the lagoon.

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  1. Venice Budget Travel Guide (Updated 2024)

    Budget hotel prices - A room in a two-star budget hotel in Venice costs 75-125 EUR per night in peak season and 50-65 in the off-season. Free Wi-Fi is included and some also include free breakfast. On the main island, Airbnb has private rooms starting from 60-80 EUR per night.

  2. 2 Days in Venice: Inspiration For Your Venice Itinerary

    The Free Walking Tour also shows you a different side of Venice, the hidden gems instead of the big tourist attractions. This is one of the best things to do in Venice on your first day, so that you get a feeling for the city and tips from the guides for the rest of your stay. 2. Visit the Piazza San Marco.

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    Day 2 / Stop 1 - Take a Trip to The Murano Glass Museum. Why it's awesome: Visit the museum of glassmaking on the island where the practice of glassmaking first originated. Cost: $11.30 USD per person. Food nearby: Art Cafe and Food is a lovely little restaurant, perfect for an early morning breakfast.

  4. The Ultimate Venice Travel Guide • The Blonde Abroad

    With a massive increase in tourists, the crowds only add to the heat. In the winter, it is quite rainy and cold. Italy is on the same seasonal cycle as the USA meaning when it's summer in the USA it's summer in Italy. Same goes for spring, fall, and winter. Peak Season: Peak tourist season for Venice is June-August.

  5. 2 Days in Venice Itinerary 2023 (Italy Travel Advice)

    Walking around the streets and the main square is an experience not to be missed during your 2 days in Venice. You'll see a lot of Hebrew-owned small shops, art galleries, and bakeries. Try the kosher restaurant called 'Gam Gam' and visit the Jewish Museum of Venice along with the most ancient synagogues of Venice.

  6. Tips for Visiting Venice in Italy

    Don't overpay for water in Venice when you can simply fill your bottle with fresh cold water from the local water fountains. It's safe to drink this water so there's no need to be afraid. 10. Don't Buy Souvenirs at Tourist Stalls. As in any other tourist destination, a lot of crappy souvenirs are sold in Venice.

  7. 25 Things to Do in Venice

    Below are 25 things to do in Venice! Venice, Italy (Private Taxi) My Experience: I traveled to Venice a few times and loved every second of my adventure. Venice is a unique, scenic place, so do not forget to bring your camera to capture the beauty of colorful buildings along the water. I highly recommend taking a gondola or boat ride through ...

  8. Venice Travel Guide (Updated 2024)

    About the author. Jessie Moore is a luxury travel expert with years of experience travelling the world to find the best destinations, hotels and adventures. Venice is a city of grandeur and inexplicable beauty. It's a place where marble palaces and gothic palazzi are linked by beguiling bridges and winding canals.

  9. 3 Days in Venice: The Ultimate Long Weekend in Venice

    3 Days in Venice: Rialto Bridge and Grand Canal. For the remainder of the day, continue to explore Venice at your own pace. Go for a walk along the Grand Canal, admiring the architecture and watching the boats. Using your transportation pass, you can hop on the water bus and go for a ride down the Grand Canal, too.

  10. Venice Travel Guide

    Here are a few tips and hacks that could help you allow you to tour Venice on a budget. The trick is to think like a local, feel like a local and live like a local. 1. Choose the Right Time for Your Trip. The first and foremost tip to save money in Venice is choosing the right time for your visit.

  11. A weekend in Venice, Italy: the Perfect 3 Day Itinerary

    2. Hidden Canals. This canal is quite a popular spot on Instagram without the need to fight for a photo as it's situated behind Hotel San Moisè. Address : S. Marco, 2058, 30173 Venezia VE, Italy. Another instagrammable location in Venice that is not widely known is the canal near Ponte de La Verona.

  12. Venice Bucket List: 20 Amazing Things to Do in Venice, Italy

    The Pala d'Oro is a Byzantine alter piece that is covered in gold and studded with almost 2,000 gems. St. Mark's Basilica | Best things to do in Venice. Inside St. Mark's Basilica, during a nighttime small group tour | Best Things to Do in Venice. On the terrace of St. Mark's Basilica | Best Things to Do in Venice.

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    7.30am: Traditional breakfast of croissant and coffee in one of Venice's many courtyard cafes 8.30-10.30am: Wander the iconic streets before the crowds start 10.30am-12.30pm: Sightseeing indoors ...

  14. What to See in Venice: A Complete Guide to Venice Italy

    San Marco Basilica. Once you're back to the heart of Venice, pay the San Marco Basilica a visit. It's absolutely gorgeous and dripping with gold plated fixtures. While the dome and ceilings are stunning, I personally couldn't stop staring at the floor—the tile mosaics are just out of this world.

  15. Top 19 Things To Do in Venice in 2024

    13. Walk Across the Rialto Bridge. The Rialto bridge is a decorative bridge crossing the Grand Canal in Venice. It is easily the most recognizable bridge in Venice and one of the oldest, so it's an obvious must-do activity in Venice. The original bridge was a floating pontoon bridge built in 1181.

  16. Best of Venice in 2-Day Epic Itinerary 2024

    Day 1 - Piazza San Marco and Beyond. First stop: Piazza San Marco. Piazza San Marco (AKA St. Mark's Square) is Venice's main hub of tourist activity. The city's most prominent public square is also home to many of Venice's primary attractions, including St. Mark's Basilica, the Doge's Palace, and St. Mark's Campanile.

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  18. Visiting Venice on a Budget: Venice Travel Guide (2024)

    Traveling to Venice on a budget - Money-saving tips. Free attractions in Venice to make your trip budget-friendly. Best 3-day itinerary for visiting Venice on a budget. Day 1 of the Budget Venice Travel Itinerary. Day 2 of the Budget Venice Travel Itinerary. Day 3 of the Budget Venice Travel Itinerary. Costs breakdown of a 3-day Venice trip.

  19. Long Weekend: Venice

    Nowhere on earth is as still as Venice at night. No street vendors, no tourists, no sound - only the occasional splashing of oars in a canal. Some nights, the acqua alta siren breaks the stillness. Slow and melodic, it warns of an incoming high tide. A few hours later and the city is submerged. Ethereal, brooding and lonely, the streets of ...

  20. 2022 Venice Itineraries, Best Time To Visit + More

    To truly experience the city of Venice, you must visit it during one of its best months. April, May, September, and October are the four most pleasant times to visit Venice. These weather-friendly months do not have winters colder than 10 degrees Celsius but are packed with warm sunshine and light winds.

  21. Traveling to Venice for the day will come with new rules : NPR

    Venice officials on Friday unveiled new rules for day-trippers, which go into effect on Jan. 16, 2023. Tourists who choose not to stay overnight in hotels or other lodgings will have to sign up ...

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    WED, 24 AUG 2022 - Day 12: Venice - Leaving the churches and basilicas behind, today we head to the canals of Venice! On arrival, we'll take an orientation walking tour with your Expat Explore tour leader, who will show you the sights including the Rialto Bridge and St Marks Square.

  23. Venice Travel: You'll Need To Pre-Book From June 2022

    Venice is launching a new pre-booking system in June, as part of a pilot project. Basically, the system will require tourists to book a visit to the city in advance. Once a booking has been made visitors will receive a QR code to be scanned at electric turnstiles at Venice's main access points. Initially, there will be no charge for booking ...