Itinerary with Top 30 Things to Do in Venice
Are you planning to visit Venice on your next trip to Italy?
It’s a great choice!
With its charming canals and the many activities to do in Venice, you will certainly enjoy your trip to this city built on water, which is also nicknamed the city of the Doges or the Serenissima.
In order to help you plan your stay, I have prepared this guide to the 30 best things to do in Venice, with all the must-see places of interest and must-see attractions.
In addition to this list, I will also give you itineraries to visit Venice in 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 days (or even a week!) as well as my selection of the best accommodations according to your budget.
So what to do in Venice?
Visit Venice: the must-sees
Save time and money: buy a city pass to visit Venice
To discover the most emblematic monuments during your trip to Venice, I highly recommend that you get a City Pass.
It’s the best way to save money and avoid queues!
Depending on the visits you want to do in Venice, you can choose between 2 city passes:
1) The Venice City Pass. He understands:
- The ticket for the Doge’s Palace
- Free admission to 11 museums
- Admission to 16 churches on the Chorus tour
- Visit of the Querini Stampalia Foundation
- Use of ACTV network transport including shuttle boats and buses (optional, you can choose to add it or not when purchasing your city pass).
2) The Venice Pass, which includes the following attractions:
- Skip-the-line ticket to St. Mark’s Basilica
- Fast-track entrance ticket to the Doge’s Palace
- A gondola ride
- A self-guided audio tour (download to your phone)
Tips for your Venice itinerary:
So, which city pass should you choose for your visit to Venice?
Personally, I recommend the Venice Pass (click here) because it includes the 3 most important things to do in Venice!
1. Gondola ride on the Grand Canal in Venice
When you think of Venice, the first thing that probably comes to mind is the iconic gondola rides along the city’s many canals.
The Grand Canal, Venice’s main waterway, offers a unique perspective on the city’s architecture.
You can admire the historic buildings, palaces and bridges that line the waterway, and simply enjoy the romantic atmosphere of the city.
For a romantic activity during your stay in Venice, I therefore strongly recommend that you opt for a gondola ride along the Grand Canal!
As a bonus, you may be entitled to a little ditty from the gondolier.
A gondola ride is included in the Venice Pass.
Tips for your Venice itinerary:
Gondola rides are extremely popular. It is therefore advisable to book in advance to be sure of having a place (and a decent price!).
Prefer to enjoy a private VIP gondola ride in Venice at night? No problem, you must reserve it by clicking here.
And if you’re looking for the original, off-the-beaten-path version, you can explore the canals of Venice by kayak! To book by clicking here.
2. St. Mark’s Square
Continue your tour of Venice by visiting the famous Piazza San Marco, the city’s main square.
This high place of Venetian life and history is home to:
- The iconic St. Mark’s Basilica (#3 on my list of the best things to do in Venice), a stunning example of Italo-Byzantine architecture.
- The Campanile Saint-Marc (n°4), for a breathtaking view of Venice.
- The Doge’s Palace (#5), another historic landmark in Venice located in St. Mark’s Square.
In the square you will also find many cafes where you can sit, have a drink and soak up the atmosphere of the city.
3. St. Mark’s Basilica
Located in St. Mark’s Square, the iconic St. Mark’s Basilica is a must-see in Venice.
Known as the Golden Church, it bears witness to the wealth and power of Venice in the past.
As you approach the basilica, you will immediately notice its stunning Italo-Byzantine architecture.
But once inside, it’s the golden mosaics that cover the interior and the famous Pala d’Oro altar, adorned with thousands of precious stones, that steal the show.
And for stunning views of St. Mark’s Square, head to the Basilica’s terrace, included in your priority ticket.
Remember that as a religious site, the basilica asks visitors to dress modestly. This means that your shoulders and knees should be covered.
Tips for your Venice itinerary:
Beware of scams!
Some websites sell entrance tickets to the basilica that only give access to the ground floor. They sell them for 20€ and they are worth nothing.
Real tickets for St. Mark’s Basilica always include:
- Priority access to the basilica
- Ground floor access
- Access to the Saint Mark’s Museum
- Access to the Pala D’oro
- Access to the terrace (unobstructed view of Piazza San Marco)
Note that the Venice Pass also includes the fast access ticket to Saint Mark’s Basilica.
And if you want to know more about St. Mark’s Basilica, you should book a guided tour. I recommend you book this one by clicking here, or check out all the tickets and guided tours for St. Mark’s Basilica here.
4. St. Mark’s Campanile
To enjoy a bird’s eye view of the city, I advise you to climb to the top of the Campanile Saint-Marc.
The Campanile is located in St. Mark’s Square, right next to St. Mark’s Basilica. It rises to an impressive height of 98 meters, making it one of the tallest monuments to see in Venice.
An elevator provides access to the top of the tower and enjoys a breathtaking 360 degree view of the city.
You will be able to see the whole of Venice, the lagoon and even the Dolomites on a clear day.
Tips for your Venice itinerary:
As there are only 30 tickets per time slot, you really need to book your visit as soon as possible.
Access to the top of Campanile de Saint-Marc costs €15, but believe me, the view is worth every penny!
5. The Doge’s Palace
Let’s continue this itinerary in Venice by another tourist site in Saint Mark’s Square: the Doge’s Palace, one of the best places to visit in Venice.
This magnificent Gothic-style palace was once the residence of the Doge, the supreme authority of the Republic of Venice.
You can explore the different rooms, admire the incredible art and get a sense of the history and power of the Venetian Republic.
Another highlight of visiting the Doge’s Palace in Venice: passing through the famous Bridge of Sighs (I’ll talk about it in more detail later in my article).
The Doge’s Palace is one of Venice’s busiest tourist attractions, so it’s best to visit early in the day to beat the crowds.
Entrance to the Doge’s Palace is included in the Venice City Pass and the Venice Pass.
If you don’t have a City Pass, you need to book your skip-the-line tickets.
Want to take a VIP guided tour of St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace instead?
In this case, the best way to save money is to book a combined guided tour of these 2 must-sees.
You can book the best tour here.
And if you’re looking for a tour off the beaten track, the Doge’s Palace Secret VIP Tour is for you! You must reserve it by clicking here.
6. Ponte dell’Accademia – The best place to take photos on the Grand Canal in Venice
During your visit to Venice, be sure to take some photos on the Ponte dell’Accademia.
This iconic wooden bridge, one of four that crosses the Grand Canal, offers exceptional views you won’t find anywhere else.
The panorama from the bridge is truly postcard-worthy, with the Grand Canal, the dome of Santa Maria della Salute and the Venetian palaces in the background.
My favorite time to take a photo from the Ponte dell’Accademia is early in the morning, at sunrise.
But if you don’t want to get up that early, no problem! The scenery is worth photographing all day :-D.
7. Rialto Bridge
Let’s continue this list of the best things to do in Venice with the Rialto Bridge, the oldest bridge spanning the Grand Canal.
Typical of Venetian architecture, the bridge is also home to many shops where you can buy anything from souvenirs to Venetian glass.
I also advise you to take a moment to appreciate the panoramic view of the canal from the bridge.
Nearby, you’ll find the bustling Rialto Market, where locals shop for fresh produce and seafood. It’s a great place to go in Venice to experience local life and grab a bite to eat.
Tips for your Venice itinerary:
The Rialto Bridge can get very crowded during the day, so you might consider heading there early in the morning or late at night for a quieter experience and a great view of the sunset.
8. Bridge of Sighs
While you are near the Doge’s Palace, you should take a moment to admire the Bridge of Sighs.
This famous Venetian bridge has a fascinating history. It was the last view of Venice that convicts saw before their imprisonment, hence its name.
For a unique experience, you can view the bridge from the water on a gondola ride. Otherwise, the view from the neighboring decks is also fantastic.
A great place to photograph the Bridge of Sighs is Ponte della Paglia, the bridge directly behind it.
As I mentioned above, you will pass over the bridge during your visit to the Doge’s Palace, but if you want to admire it from below, I advise you to book this gondola ride.
9. San Giorgio Maggiore
If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the main islands of Venice, you should take a trip to San Giorgio Maggiore.
This small island is home to a beautiful church and bell tower that offer one of the best views of Venice.
The San Giorgio Maggiore Church, a jewel designed by the famous architect Andrea Palladio, stands majestically on the island. Its white facade standing out against the blue of the Venetian sky is a real picturesque spectacle!
Inside, you can admire remarkable works of art, including “The Last Supper” by Tintoretto.
After exploring the church, be sure to visit the bell tower. As with the one in Piazza San Marco, a small contribution and a short elevator ride will get you to the top!
From there, the panoramic view of Venice is simply breathtaking. This is the perfect place to take some great photos of the city, especially at sunset.
If you prefer, you can also visit San Giorgio Maggiore as part of a guided tour.
The best is a small group tour (limited to just 9 participants) which includes a boat ride, church visit and ticket to climb the bell tower of San Giorgio Maggiore.
Finally, if you are an art lover, or if you simply want to enjoy a visit off the beaten track, head to the Cini Foundation, also located on the island.
This cultural institution houses a rich collection of works of art and a library specializing in the history of art.
Tips for your Venice itinerary:
How to get to San Giorgio Maggiore?
It’s simple, you can take a vaporetto (water bus) from Piazza San Marco. The journey is short, but scenic. Remember to check vaporetto timetables and tickets in advance.
To take the Vaporetto, the easiest way is to buy the ACTV card which gives unlimited access to buses and vaporettos (cheap boat trips yeahhhh!). To get it, you can:
- Buy the Venice City Pass (click here) and choose the public transport option.
- Buy the ACTV card (also called Vaporetto pass).
10. Collection Peggy Guggenheim
If you are interested in modern art, I continue this guide to Venice with the discovery of the Peggy Guggenheim collection.
The museum is housed in the Palazzo Venier dei Leoni, an unfinished 18th-century palace that was Peggy Guggenheim’s residence for 30 years.
It showcases its extensive art collection, featuring masterpieces by renowned 20th century artists such as Picasso, Pollock, Kandinsky and Dali.
Don’t miss the Sculpture Garden, which offers a peaceful break with a great view of the Grand Canal.
Reserve your ticket for the Peggy Guggenheim Collection by clicking here.
And if you want to know more about the works of art, you can book a visit with a private artistic guide*.
*Please note that if you book the guided tour, you will also need to book your museum tickets separately (with the other button above).
11. Church of Santa Maria Della Salute
Now let’s talk about Santa Maria della Salute, an iconic Baroque church located at the entrance to the Grand Canal.
You can admire its grandiose exterior from various places in Venice, including the Ponte dell’Accademia and the Campanile di San Marco which I mentioned above.
You should also take a closer look inside the church, which is equally impressive with its frescoes and artwork.
Admission is free, and the church is generally less crowded than other Venice sights, providing a moment of relative tranquility amid your other sights.
12. Ca’d’Oro
Also known as the House of Gold, Ca’ d’Oro is another must-see site in Venice.
This fine example of Venetian Gothic architecture houses the Galleria Giorgio Franchetti, an important collection of Renaissance art.
You can visit the Galleria and enjoy stunning views of the Grand Canal from the loggia.
Reserve your ticket for the Ca’ d’Oro and the Galleria Giorgio Franchetti by clicking here.
13. Basilica of Santa Maria Glorious dei Frari
The Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari, better known as Frari, is a magnificent 13th century Gothic church.
This is not just another religious building to see in Venice. It is an art treasure and historic resting place for great Venetians, including the famous painter Titian.
Inside Frari you will discover many paintings, sculptures and architectural features that make the basilica truly unique.
Tips for your Venice itinerary:
Are you going to Venice?
You know it: the hardest part is certainly to find a hotel offering a good price/performance ratio!
And it’s even worse in major European cities.
And yes, the closer you get to your travel date, the less availability there will be. Thousands of people will be visiting Venice on the same dates as you, and you can be sure that all the best-placed and best-priced rooms will have already been booked!
Fortunately, the solution to this problem is simple: do like me and plan ahead!
So take 5 minutes now to take a look at the list of travelers’ favorite hotels in Venice.
And if you like a hotel, book it!
Cancellation is often free, it’s quick, easy, and it will protect you from the inconvenience of finding nothing, except mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.
To see the best deals on Venice right now, just click here.
Once your hotel is booked, it’s time to continue reading this guide!
14. Great School of San Rocco
If you’re at a loss for what to visit in Venice and you love Renaissance art, the Scuola Grande di San Rocco should definitely be on your Venice itinerary.
Located near the Basilica di Santa Maria Glorious dei Frari which I just mentioned and known as the “Sistine Chapel of Venice”, this brotherhood building houses amazing works by Tintoretto, a famous Venetian artist.
You can admire many paintings on the walls and the ceiling.
There is so much to see that there are even mirrors to avoid straining your neck admiring the works on the ceiling!
Tickets for the Scuaola Grande di San Roco must be purchased on site.
15. Rialto Market – Guided Tour in Venice
One of the must-do experiences in Venice is visiting the Rialto Market.
This bustling market is a feast for the senses with its wide array of fresh local produce, seafood and Venetian specialties.
You can explore the various stalls, sample local delicacies and maybe even have a little picnic with your market finds!
The market is busiest in the morning, so it’s best to get there early to experience the real buzz of Venetian life.
Tips for your Venice itinerary:
If you want to discover the gastronomy and typical products of Venice, book a guided street food tour with a local guide.
It is undoubtedly the best way to discover places off the beaten track and to taste good Italian dishes, including typical Cicchetti (local tapas)!
And if you are a wine lover, you should opt for this other tour, which also offers a tasting of 5 high quality wines : Venice Wine Bars Guided Tour + Tastings.
16. La Fenice Theater – Venice Opera
Known as the Phoenix Theatre, Teatro La Fenice is one of the most famous opera houses in the world and is obviously one of the places to see in Venice.
Although it is a great place to catch a concert or an opera, even without a show ticket, you can still explore its architectural beauty.
From the grandeur of the auditorium to the elegance of the Apollonian rooms, it is a very nice visit to make in Venice.
The Teatro La Fenice is easily accessible by vaporetto (don’t forget to take your Venice City Pass with transport option or your ACTV card ). The closest stops are Sant’Angelo and Rialto.
If you are already near St. Mark’s Square, the Opera is only a 5 minute walk away. Don’t forget that getting lost in Venice is part of the charm!
Tickets to visit Teatro La Fenice can be purchased here.
17. Attend a Classical Concert
If you want to attend a classical concert or an opera in Venice, you can of course book it on the Teatro La Fenice website.
However, there are also concerts that are more intimate, cheaper and definitely worth it!
Here are my two favorites (just click the orange links for more info and to book):
Four Seasons Concert at Vivaldi Church: Attend a classical concert at Santa Maria della Visitazione, nicknamed “Vivaldi’s Church”. You may not know it, but the famous composer was actually Venetian.
Opera in a historic palace on the Grand Canal: If you want a truly Venetian experience, how about an opera in a historic palace on the Grand Canal? It’s a magical blend of music, history and the unique charm of Venice.
18. Ca’ Rezzonico
If you want to immerse yourself in the city’s rich history and do some cultural sightseeing in Venice, Ca’ Rezzonico is the place for you.
This 18th-century palatial museum is filled with gorgeous furniture, frescoes, and artwork .
You can easily spend two hours exploring the different rooms and exhibits. The ballroom is particularly impressive!
The museum also offers stunning views of the Grand Canal.
Access to Ca’Rezzonico is included in the Venice City Pass.
19. Contarini del Bovolo staircase
La Scala Contarini del Bovolo is a hidden gem in the heart of Venice.
This ornate spiral staircase offers stunning panoramic views of the city. As you climb the steps, you’ll experience a different perspective of Venice on each level.
This remarkable architectural structure is often overlooked by tourists, making it an ideal place for a more tranquil and unique experience.
Book your tickets in advance here.
Palazzo Contarini is also included in the “Hidden Venice” walking tour. You can reserve it by clicking here.
20. Gallery of the Academy
Art lovers should visit the Accademia Gallery, one of Italy’s most important art museums.
The museum houses an extensive collection of Venetian paintings from the 14th to 18th centuries, including masterpieces by artists such as Titian, Tintoretto and Canaletto.
To ensure a hassle-free visit, we advise you to book your tickets in advance on the official website.
Try to allow at least 1.5 hours for your visit to the Accademia gallery, as there is a lot to see.
21. Librairie Acqua Alta
Tucked away in one of Venice’s quieter corners, Libreria Acqua Alta is a one-of-a-kind bookstore that has become a favorite with tourists and locals alike.
Its name translates to “High Water Bookstore”, a fitting name since the shop is filled with tubs, watertight bins, and even a gondola, all filled with books to protect them from the city’s frequent floods.
Besides its unconventional storage methods, the bookstore is known for its wide array of books, from new bestsellers to old books, all piled up out of order.
If you love books, a visit to the Libreria Acqua Alta is a must. It’s a unique experience that perfectly encapsulates the charming and unconventional spirit of Venice.
You might find a special souvenir here that will remind you of your stay in Venice.
22. Correr Museum
Located at the far end of St. Mark’s Square, the Museo Correr is an often-overlooked Venice museum that offers a fascinating insight into Venetian art, history, and culture.
It would be a shame to miss it, as the entrance to the Museo Correr is included in the entrance ticket to the Doge’s Palace.
The museum houses an extensive collection of artwork, historical documents, maps, coins, and other artifacts dating back centuries.
One of the highlights of the museum is the neoclassical section, which houses works by Canova, one of Italy’s greatest sculptors.
The museum also offers stunning views of St. Mark’s Square from its windows – a perfect photo opportunity.
Don’t forget to book your Doge’s Palace tickets (which include the Correr Museum) by clicking here.
23. Basilica of San Giovanni e Paolo
The Basilica of San Giovanni e Paolo, known in Venice as San Zanipolo, is one of the largest and most important churches in the city.
It holds a special place in the history of Venice, as many doges (leaders of the Venetian Republic) are buried there, earning it the nickname “Pantheon of Venice”.
The stunning interior of the basilica is filled with valuable works of art, including paintings by famous Venetian artists such as Veronese and Bellini.
24. Church of Santa Maria Formosa
Santa Maria Formosa is one of the oldest churches in Venice.
The story goes that the Virgin Mary appeared in person to Saint Magnus, the bishop of Oderzo, in a vision and asked him to build a church in her honor there.
Besides the grandeur of the church and its magnificent bell tower, the district of Santa Maria Formosa is a charming part of Venice known for its art galleries and shops.
As you stroll through the neighborhood, you’ll find many unique pieces of Venetian craftsmanship to take home.
Included in the City Pass.
25. Church of Santa Maria dei Miracoli
The Chiesa di Santa Maria dei Miracoli, often called the Church of Miracles, is a small but very beautiful Renaissance church, notable for its exterior and interior covered in marble.
Despite its size, it contains many details that are worth taking the time to appreciate.
Included in the City Pass.
26. Natural History Museum
The Museo di Storia Naturale (Museum of Natural History) is housed in the amazing Fondaco dei Turchi, a palace whose origins date back to the 13th century.
It exhibits millions of years of natural history.
From prehistoric fossils to exhibits showcasing biodiversity and ecology, this is the perfect place to learn about life on Earth.
Book your tickets for the Museo di Storia Naturale.
Admission to the museum is included in the Venice City Pass.
Tips for your Venice itinerary:
If you are looking for what to do in Venice with children, the Natural History Museum of Venice is the ideal cultural visit.
Its interactive exhibits provide a fun and educational experience.
And don’t forget to admire the breathtaking view of the Grand Canal from the windows of the museum.
While you’re in the St. Mark’s Quarter, consider visiting the Museo Storico Navale, or Naval History Museum.
This museum, located in the Castello district, offers a dive into the maritime history of Venice.
From large model ships to naval instruments and weapons, this museum gives you an overview of Venice’s naval prowess and maritime history.
The Naval History Museum can be visited on the same day as your visit to St. Mark’s Square and Basilica, given its proximity.
Bonus: The Carnival of Venice
If you have decided to go to Venice in February, you may be able to attend the famous Venice Carnival.
It takes place every year, and begins 10 days before Ash Wednesday and ends on Mardi Gras. For a few days, you can admire the sumptuous costumes and masks worn by the inhabitants of Venice.
St. Mark’s Square is a major gathering place for the Venice Carnival and several events take place during this period in Venice.
The carnival is very touristy. You definitely need to book your flight and accommodation in Venice months in advance if you want to attend.
What to do around Venice?
The charm of Venice does not stop at the city’s borders!
After discovering the best places to visit in Venice, you should take the time to discover the surroundings.
To help you plan your visits, here are the 4 best day trips from Venice.
28. Visit the Venetian Islands: Murano, Burano, Torcello
Murano, Burano and Torcello are 3 islands in the Venetian lagoon that are each worth a day trip.
Murano, best known for its centuries-old tradition of glassmaking, offers tourists the opportunity to visit glassworks or “fornaci”, where you can watch glassblowers at work.
You can also visit the Museo del Vetro, where you will learn about historical and contemporary glass art.
From Murano, take a short boat trip to Burano, recognizable by its multicolored houses.
Be sure to visit a lace workshop to learn about a craft that dates back to the 16th century.
End your day at Torcello, the oldest inhabited island in the lagoon. Its main attraction is the Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta, which houses amazing Byzantine mosaics.
Tips for your Venice itinerary:
If you want to visit these 3 islands in the vicinity of Venice on your own, know that the Murano Glass Museum and the Burano Lace Museum are both included in the Venice City Pass.
Alternatively, if you’re looking for a hassle-free solution, you can visit Murano, Burano, and Torcello from Venice on an organized day trip.
The 6-hour guided tour includes all three islands and begins in St. Mark’s Square. Just reserve it here.
And if you prefer a shorter tour (4h), you can opt for the one that only goes to Murano and Burano. Just click here to reserve it.
29. Lido Beach
For a change of scenery, you can take a vaporetto (as always, you need your Venice City Pass with transport option or your ACTV Card ) to Lido beach.
This long stretch of sand is the perfect place to relax around Venice after a few days of sightseeing.
Rent a cabana and relax in the sun, cool off in the Adriatic Sea or have a picnic with local Italian specialties.
You can also walk around the island or rent a bike to discover its Art Nouveau villas, charming streets and lush gardens.
Finally, the Lido also hosts the Venice film festival, the Venice Film Festival, which takes place every year in September in the historic Palazzo del Cinema.
30. Verona
If you plan to spend a few days in Venice, I recommend visiting Verona, a nearby UNESCO World Heritage city .
Located just 1.5 hours drive from Venice, Verona is famous for its Roman history and the legendary love story of Romeo and Juliet.
Start your tour at Verona Arena, a well-preserved Roman amphitheater that hosts opera performances in the summer.
Stroll through the town’s cobbled streets and make your way to Juliet’s House, where you can see the famous balcony, take a photo with the Juliet statue, and leave a love note on the door.
Tips for your Venice itinerary:
If you don’t want the hassle of planning your day on your own, book a guided tour with transport included.
The best day trip will allow you to visit several places: Verona of course, but also a winery in the wine regions of Amarone and Valpolicella.
You will have the opportunity to taste some of the best Italian wines.
31. Dolomites
Want to get away from the hustle and bustle of Venice?
I then recommend that you go to the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must for nature lovers.
These majestic peaks offer spectacular scenery and a wide variety of outdoor activities.
In summer you can hike or bike on well-marked trails, while in winter you can ski or snowboard on world-class slopes.
Do not miss to pass by the picturesque Lake Misurina or the famous Tre Cime di Lavaredo, three characteristic peaks that constitute one of the most emblematic sites of the Dolomites.
Don’t forget to check the weather before you go: it can change quickly in the mountains.
The best tour in the Dolomites includes transfer from Venice with round trip.
To book your day trip to the Dolomites, just click here.
How many days to visit Venice?
How long should you go to Venice?
It depends on your personal preferences and how fast you like to travel. However, it is generally recommended to plan a trip to Venice of 3 to 4 days.
This duration will allow you to visit the main attractions like St. Mark’s Square, the Doge’s Palace and the Rialto Bridge.
You’ll also have time to take a gondola ride, visit the islands of Murano and Burano, and even get off the beaten track a bit by going sightseeing.
1 Day Venice Itinerary
What to do in Venice in 1 day? Here is the program that I suggest you follow:
- Join St. Mark’s Square
- Visit of Saint Mark’s Basilica
- Climb to the Campanile de Saint Marc (provided you have booked your tickets well in advance)
- Visit of the Doge’s Palace with crossing the Bridge of Sighs
- Optional, if you are interested in this type of visit: the Correr Museum (entrance included with the Doge’s Palace ticket)
- Gondola ride on the Grand Canal in Venice
- Passage by 3 churches: Santa Maria Formosa / Basilica of San Giovanni e Paolo / Church of Santa Maria dei Miracoli
- The Rialto Bridge to end the day in style.
For this one-day Venice itinerary, I really recommend buying the Venice city pass which includes skip-the-line tickets to St. Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace and the gondola ride.
This will prevent you from wasting time and you will be able to see a maximum of essentials while saving money.
To buy directly by clicking here.
2 Days Venice Itinerary
If you want to go on a weekend in Venice and therefore have 2 days to visit the city of the Doges, I recommend the following itinerary:
Day 1
Resume the program of the circuit to visit Venice in 1 day including in particular the Basilica of Saint Mark, the Doge’s Palace, the gondola ride, Rialto Bridge…
Day 2
- For art lovers, visit the Ca d’Oro
- Rialto Market
- Basilica of Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari
- Great School of San Roco
- Ca’Rezzonico
- Academy Bridge
- Choice and optional: Accademia Gallery or Peggy Guggenheim Collection
- Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute
- Attend a concert or an opera in Venice.
To make the most of your 2 days in Venice, I advise you to read my dedicated article: Visit Venice in 2 days: the ultimate itinerary
3 Days Venice Itinerary
For 3 days in Venice, in addition to the programs of the previous 2 days, I advise you to devote the day to discovering Burano, Murano and Torcello.
You can visit on your own by taking the boat each time between the islands or opt for an organized excursion with transport included from Saint Mark’s Square.
You will have the choice between the 6-hour visit (Burano + Murano + Torcello) or the 4-hour visit including only Burano and Murano.
If you have planned to spend 3 days in Venice, I advise you to read my detailed itinerary: How to visit Venice in 3 days?
4 Days Venice Itinerary
For 4 days in Venice, I suggest you visit the island of San Giorgio Maggiore.
You can go there on your own by boat or choose the all-inclusive excursion (boat trip + visit to the church and the bell tower).
In the afternoon, 2 options are available to you:
1) You can walk around Venice, see its many churches or visit the natural history museum or the naval history museum and of course do some shopping.
2) Join the Lido beach for a relaxing afternoon.
Want to spend 4 days in Venice? In that case, you should read my article: the best 4-day itinerary in Venice
Venice Itinerary 5 days or more
After exploring the city and seeing all the must-sees in this top of the best things to do in Venice, it’s time to discover the surroundings.
Why not take a day trip to Verona or discover the Dolomites.
Accommodation in Venice
Here is my selection of the best hotels in Venice according to your budget.
If you already know your travel dates, you should book your hotel as soon as possible: Venice is very touristy and the best deals don’t last long!
If you don’t want to end up in a mediocre and very expensive room, book your hotel now by clicking on the orange links below :
- Generator Venice: Located on Giudecca. Beds in dormitories from 40€. Pros: very clean, comfortable bed, view. A great choice for cheap accommodation in Venice!
- Il Lato Azzurro: Located on the picturesque island of Sant’Erasmo, a short boat ride from the bustling streets of Venice. Double rooms, from €85 per night, with breakfast included. What I liked: the peaceful location of the island, the garden, the bright rooms.
- Casa Sulla Laguna: Located on Murano, a few minutes by boat from Venice. Double room with lagoon view, from €120. Strong points: the friendliness of the owners, the peace and quiet, the quick and easy access to Venice. This is my recommendation for its price / performance ratio!
- Tourist House San Lio: Located in the district of Castelleo. Modern double room from €150. Highlights: Perfect location, very helpful host, near the Rialto Bridge.
- Hotel Villa Rosa: Located in the Cannaregio district. Elegantly decorated double room from €190, breakfast included. Pros: excellent location, comfortable room, very friendly staff.
- Hotel Moresco: Located a few steps from the Grand Canal. This 4* hotel offers spacious and sumptuously decorated double rooms, from €330 per night, breakfast included. What I liked: the quiet garden, the enchanting Venetian decor, the hotel’s short distance from the main tourist sites. This is the best hotel for a luxury stay in Venice!
If you are looking for a luxury hotel to stay in Venice, here is my selection:
- Radisson Collection Hotel: Located on Cannaregio. Comfortable and well-decorated double room from €520, breakfast included. Pros: the spa, the beautiful interior design, the impeccable service.
- Ca’di Dio – Small luxury hotel: Located 800 meters from the Doge’s Palace. Elegantly decorated double room from €640, breakfast included. Highlights: Stunning view, friendly and attentive staff, delicious breakfast.
- Baglioni Hotel Luna – The largest hotels in the world: 50 meters from Piazza San Marco. Magnificent and very spacious double room from €690, breakfast €35. Most: exceptional staff, very central location, extraordinary breakfast.
- The St Regis Venice: Located on the banks of the Grand Canal in Venice. Beautiful and elegantly decorated rooms from €1,500 per night, breakfast €50. Highlights: Exceptional services, stunning views, beautiful design.
Tips for your Venice itinerary:
If these hotels are no longer available or not suitable for you, you will find a wider selection of accommodation in my dedicated article: Best hotels in Venice
Venice tourist map
To help you visualize the city a little better, I made you a tourist map of Venice listing the places to visit that I talk about in this top 31 things to do in Venice.
You can display the map legend by clicking on the top left button with a small arrow.
When is the best time to visit Venice?
Choosing the best time to visit Venice depends on what you want from your trip.
This city has a unique charm in every season, but each time of year offers a different experience.
1) Spring (April to June) is often considered one of the best times to visit Venice.
The weather is generally mild and pleasant, which is ideal for walking and exploring. The town is starting to come alive with tourists, but it’s not as crowded as it is in the summer.
2) Summer (July-August) is the busiest tourist season.
The city can be very busy and temperatures can be high.
However, you will find plenty of outdoor events and festivals to enjoy.
3) Autumn (September to November) is another good time to visit the city.
Tourists are starting to dwindle and the weather, although cooler, is still generally pleasant. The Venice Film Festival also takes place in autumn .
4) Winter (December to March) is the least popular time to visit Venice.
The weather may be chilly and you may experience the acqua alta (flood), but you’ll have the beauty of the city almost all to yourself.
In addition, if you choose the right time, you can witness the unique spectacle of the Venice Carnival.
If you need help planning your trip to Venice, don’t hesitate to ask me your questions in the comments below!
Read also:
- 2 Days in Venice: Ultimate 2-Day Itinerary with Maps
- 3 Days in Venice: Ultimate 3-Day Itinerary
- 4 Days in Venice: Ultimate 4-Day Itinerary
- Accommodation in Venice: Advice on the Best Area
