venice day trip tour guide

Venice in a Day with St Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace & Gondola Ride

• Make the most of every moment on our Venice in a Day Tour, checking all the can't-miss sights (and a few hidden gems!) off your list in just one day.
• 8:30 AM tour only: Enjoy skip-the-line entry at St. Mark’s Basilica for more time to explore its incredible architecture and art.
• Skip the line at the Doge's Palace, the heart of politics and power in Venice, and uncover centuries of history within its storied walls.
• Relish in an only-in-Venice moment on a gondola ride through the heart of the city, included in the price of your tour.
• Explore Venice in a group of 20 people or fewer, with an expert local tour guide on hand to tell you the stories behind top attractions and hidden palaces alike.

Tour description

Explore the hidden beauty and fascinating history of venice in one day on our small group tour..

Please note: Only the 8:30 AM tour includes entrance to St. Mark's Basilica. The 8:45 AM tour will see the Basilica from the outside. It is not possible to bring large backpacks on the tour.

Your day starts as all great days in Venice do: with a stroll through the quiet back streets and bustling markets of the city. You’ll meet one of our expert local guides and group of 20 guests maximum for an intimate guided stroll.

Starting early, we'll get to the Rialto Bridge before the crowds descend to admire its incredible marble architecture before moving on to the bustling Rialto market. The chefs and nonnas of the city are shopping for the day's freshest ingredients, so there's no better time for a stroll through the stalls. Your guide will introduce you to a few of our more unconventional ingredients and share how (and why) Venetian cuisine differs from the rest of Italy’s. At the market and throughout your Venice in a Day Tour, they’ll give you tips on what and where to eat while you’re in town.

Our tour continues into the atmospheric neighborhoods of the city, across countless bridges and quiet piazzas. Along the way, you’ll see the childhood home of Marco Polo, the Venetian merchant who first spoke of China; duck inside San Giovanni Gristosomo to see paintings by Venetian masters Bellini and Sebastiano del Piombo; and discover how the “Church of Miracles” got its name—plus so much more! We consciously take you away from the beaten track and to our favorite local spots so you get a taste of the real Venice as well as the big name attractions.

Enjoy a gondola ride along the Grand Canal and quieter back canals of Venice.

We couldn’t say we were covering the best of Venice in a day if we didn’t include a gondola ride on our tour. After your walking tour, you’ll meet a local Venetian gondolier and your group will be split into different gondolas (maximum five people per gondola) for a ride along the Grand Canal and into the quieter back canals of the city. Duck under little bridges, admire ornate palaces, and watch the world go by as you sit back and enjoy this quintessential Venetian moment. With independent Venice gondola rides costing around €80/hour, this half-hour ride, included in the price of your tour, is a bargain.

Discover the top two sights of Venice—St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace—on our skip-the-line tours.

We’ll give you a short break after your gondola ride and meet back at St. Mark’s Square for the next part of our adventure. If you book the 8:30 AM tour, you'll skip the line into St. Mark's Basilica as your guide points out the features of this incredible church. If you book the 8:45 AM tour, your guide will pause outside the Basilica to explain how its east-meets-west architecture came about and the shady means by which the relics of St. Mark came to rest here.

Our day doesn’t end there, though. With pre-reserved, skip-the-line tickets to the Doge’s Palace, we’ll walk straight inside. It’s here that you’ll feel the most benefit for having a local tour guide. Home to some of the city’s most impressive artworks and architecture, Palazzo Ducale is so much more than something pretty to look at. Although it certainly is that, it’s also the historic heart of Venice and a repository for the best stories, from Casanova’s prison break to the Duke whose face was dramatically blacked out of every portrait and painting.

With our expert guides on hand to tell you all the juicy details, plus small groups so you can easily ask all the questions you want, your Doge’s Palace tour is guaranteed to be a highlight of your Venice visit.

Please note that this description is an example and your experience may vary depending on the season, day of the week, and group size. Regardless of where your tour goes, you always have an excellent experience.

Sites visited

Verified guest reviews, jul 15, 2024.

This was a fantastic and informative tour! Our guide, Chiarra, was simply amazing! She was personable, passionate, and incredibly knowledgeable about all things Venice. So glad we booked this tour!!!

Matteo was a great guide and we loved the tour, overall a great way to learn about Venice’s history and get to know the city!

Jul 14, 2024

This tour was wonderful a d informative. Our tour guide, Francesca was amazing , friendly , and so knowledgeable . We totally enjoyed our trip.

Jul 12, 2024

Excellent tour --- Tullia is a wonderful and knowledgeable guide! It's heavy on art history which is a bonus for those so inclined.

Jul 01, 2024

This was an excellent tour. It is a lot of walking, but worth it. Our tour guide, Nicoletta, was VERY informative. Towards the end I think we were all a little tired and began to lose interest in the information in the last museum about all of the art. The gondola ride was magnificent. You never know what to expect when you book something online, but I would definitely recommend this tour.

Know before you book

Similar tours, welcome to venice: walking tour, st mark's basilica & gondola ride, vip doge's palace secret passages tour, legendary venice: st. mark’s basilica with terraces & doge’s palace.

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Venice in a Day Tour with Gondola Ride

Visit st. mark's basilica, doge's palace, rialto bridge, and the hidden areas of venice.

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How to Spend One Perfect Day in Venice (Itinerary + Travel Tips)

Venice is one of those places that you simply have to see to believe. The city is truly one of the most unique places on Earth–but spending one day in Venice is definitely also an exercise in organization.

If you’re hoping to see Venice in a day (and also hoping to see the major sights without being overwhelmed by the city’s notorious crowds) knowing your travel preferences and where to go is key to having a delightful day in Venice.

Wondering what to do with one day in Venice?

We love the city dearly–after visiting many times in all seasons, here’s how we suggest exploring Venice in a day.

Table of Contents

Want to plan one day in Venice the easy way?

Consider your personality: are the classic venice sights right for you, the perfect one day venice itinerary, where to stay for one day in venice, tips for spending one day in venice, italy, your one day venice itinerary map.

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The independent one day Venice itinerary that we’ve outlined below will show you many of the most iconic places in the City of Canals, from Piazza San Marco to the Rialto Bridge and beyond.

However, if you would rather not worry about navigating through Venice yourself, and your goal is to see as much as possible of Venice in one day, you can also consider signing up for  this extremely well-reviewed tour .

Take Walks, which hosts  this popular Venice in a day tour , is one of our favorite companies for small group tours in Europe, and we’ve used them in many cities.

(They also actually got their start in 2009 as Walks of Italy–so they definitely know Venice).

While there are trade-offs to booking a full-day tour of Venice–the thrill of meandering aimlessly through the footbridges of less-crowded sestieri and being beholden to no one’s schedule but your own as you enjoy a gelato along a canal would be hard to give up–there are benefits to a tour, too.

The biggest benefits are that thanks to a knowledgeable and efficient tour guide, Take Walks’ tour covers an enormous amount of ground, and that your entrance to the Doge’s Palace (if you choose the 8:30 AM tour) and a gondola ride are taken care of without any need to worry about logistics.

Book your Venice in a day tour  today!

Hoping to visit Venice independently for a day, but not sure that the dizzying list of attractions above sounds exciting–with or without a tour guide?

If so, before planning one day in Venice, ask yourself this: are you the type of person to be frustrated by large crowds?

If this is you, and especially if you’re also visiting in the high season, we recommend reconsidering the suggested one-day Venice itinerary that we outline below.

These suggestions for spending a day in Venice are designed for a traveler who hopes to see the city’s most iconic sights quickly.

That being said, if you’re not much for enjoying famous locations if they also come with a crowd, strongly consider spending your day steering clear of Piazza San Marco and the Rialto Bridge after, say, 8:00 AM, and spending your day literally anywhere else.

Venice is full of beautiful and empty nooks and crannies, and if all you want from your visit is some canals and quiet time, Cannaregio, Dorsoduro , and Castello are the neighborhoods for you , and our guide to the best hidden gems in Venice has plenty of destination ideas to keep you busy.

We go into more detail about these neighborhoods on our 2 day Venice itinerary , which we recommend scanning through if that sounds more interesting to you than the Bridge of Sighs or St. Mark’s Basilica!

That being said, this suggested itinerary for seeing Venice in a day doesn’t spend all its time in the city’s most crowded corners, either–but you definitely won’t be alone for most of the day with this Venice itinerary.

Start with an early morning stroll to the Rialto Bridge.

The earlier you can get started exploring on your one day in Venice, the better.

That way, n ot only will you have more time to spend in the beautiful city of canals, you’ll have more time without the heavy crowds that descend as the morning wears on.

Kick off your day in Venice as early as you can–perhaps even by 7:00 AM if you can swing it–and your stroll to and along the Rialto Bridge will be remarkably peaceful.

Of the four bridges that cross Venice’s Grand Canal, the Rialto Bridge is both the oldest and the loveliest, with shops lining both sides of the stone bridge.

Once upon a time, the Rialto Bridge was the only way to cross the Grand Canal without boarding a boat!

While crossing the bridge, be sure to take the time to admire the Grand Canal views from both directions, and once you’re finished on the bridge itself, be sure to spend a little time browsing the nearby Rialto Market.

Head to Piazza San Marco by 9:00 AM.

Piazza San Marco is Venice’s (enormous) best-known piazza.

Set right up against the lagoon and home to several of Venice’s most famous sights, Piazza San Marco is busy and bustling, and generally quite crowded with vendors and tourists alike.

Take a few minutes once you arrive to stroll through the piazza–it really is lovely–and if you’re so inclined, take an iconic photo with Venice’s pigeons (not our thing, but it’s a popular thing to do!) or sip a (very expensive) coffee at one of the famous cafes that line the piazza (Caffe Florian is the best-known).

(If you’re in search of a more reasonably-priced coffee and pastry, we love Bar Ducale, which is located a short walk away from the piazza).

Once you finish exploring the piazza, it’s time to pay a visit to St. Mark’s Basilica. The basilica opens at 9:30 AM, but people tend to start lining up to visit well before that!

The potential long lines at St. Mark’s Basilica are the main reason we suggest reaching Piazza San Marco by 9:00 AM–jumping in line before 9:30 AM there will help cut down on the amount of time during your one day in Venice that you spend in line.

Head inside St. Mark’s Basilica.

Dripping in Byzantine-style detail and utterly opulent, St. Mark’s Basilica is an icon of Venice and absolutely worth a visit.

Touring the church is free, though if you happen to get a late start to your day in Venice and the lines are too long, skip-the-line tickets are available for 3 Euros.

Alternately, you can visit as part of a guided tour of both St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace (more on that option below).

Tour the Doge’s Palace OR climb San Marco Campanile.

When trying to see Venice in a day, it’s inevitable that you’ll have to make some sacrifices.

Sadly, unless you want to spend your entire day in Venice in its most congested areas, visiting both San Marco Campanile and the Doge’s Palace probably isn’t a good idea–we recommend choosing one.

Benefits of touring the Doge’s Palace: this was the Venetian Empire’s seat of government, and the interior is both gorgeous and interesting.

If you’re interested in Venice’s history, or in seeing the “real” view of the Bridge of Sighs (it was originally famous for the view looking out, not the view of the bridge itself), this is a great option.

Benefits of choosing to visit San Marco Campanile: the views over Venice are magnificent, including views of the city, the lagoon, St. Mark’s Basilica, and some of Venice’s cool outlying islands . It also takes less time to visit than the Doge’s Palace, and is cheaper.

Of course, this is your one day in Venice we’re talking about–if you dream of seeing both these locations, absolutely visit them both!

But if you hope to see more of Venice’s quieter areas, definitely choose one or the other.

If you visit the Doge’s Palace, we recommend booking a guided tour to skip the line, better structure your day, and get some incredible context to your visit (also, for fellow history buffs: consider reading City of Fortune: How Venice Ruled the Seas before coming!).

Book your guided visit of St. Mark’s Basilica + the Doge’s Palace today! Not into tours? You can still skip the line at the Doge’s Palace by purchasing a priority ticket  in advance.

Stroll along the Riva degli Schiavoni.

If you walk between San Marco Campanile and the Doge’s Palace toward the water, you’ll very quickly find yourself on the lagoon’s waterfront–the Riva degli Schiavoni.

From here, you’ll have beautiful views of gondolas bobbing in the water, San Giorgio Maggiore across the water, and–if you turn left and keep walking–the Bridge of Sighs.

Personally, I have to admit that this is far from one of my favorite walks in Venice, simply due to the crowds. If you get a chance to sneak over here before touring the basilica and palace, all the better–but I understand that most travelers won’t want to set their alarms that early on vacation!

The views over the water are gorgeous, though, and a short distance from the Doge’s Palace you’ll also find…

Check out the Bridge of Sighs.

Though the view that the Bridge of Sighs is famous for comes from inside it, it’s the exterior view that the Bridge of Sighs is better known for now.

The Riva degli Schiavoni is the perfect viewpoint, so be sure to pause for a moment to appreciate the beauty of the architecture and the view of the many gondolas and other boats that travel underneath the bridge !

Head to the Ponte dell’Accademia.

At this point during your one day in Venice, it’s time to enjoy one of the absolute best things to do in Venice: a nice, long, ambling walk!

While the sights concentrated around the Piazza San Marco are important and worth seeing, there’s so much more to Venice than its busiest piazza.

The eventual goal of your walk? To head all the way to the Ponte dell’Accademia, where you’ll be greeted with an iconic view of the Grand Canal.

Don’t hurry, though: while you can complete the walk in a little under 15 minutes, there are plenty of beautiful canals, buildings, boats, shops, and footbridges to admire along the way, and they are worth appreciating.

A few things to keep an eye out for: the Merchant of Venice flagship perfume store, the Teatro La Fenice, the Gallerie dell’Accademia that is situated right over the Ponte dell’Accademia in Dorsoduro, and the Scala Contarini del Bovolo, which I’ll discuss a bit more below.

And, though they’re not strictly “on the way”, this is a good opportunity to throw out that the Church of Zan Zaccaria (complete with a famously flooded crypt), Squero di San Trevaso (where you can witness gondolas being built), and Ca’ Rezzonico (a beautiful palace along the Grand Canal) are all close-ish add-ons that speedy sightseers might want to consider adding on to their one day in Venice.

Looking for a place to grab a snack or drink?

Campo Santo Stefano is right on the way and is one of our favorite piazzas in Venice for kicking back and relaxing.

Optional: climb Scala Contarini del Bovolo on the way.

If you visited the Doge’s Palace instead of St. Mark’s Campanile earlier during your one day in Venice and still want to get a glimpse of Venice from above, consider hitting up the Scala Contarini del Bovolo instead!

The view is not nearly as good as from San Marco Campanile, but it has a fraction of the crowds and the tower itself is gorgeous.

The odds of randomly stumbling across this tower during your time exploring Venice in a day are slim to none, so if you’d like to make the climb, we recommend plugging it into your GPS and heading that way!

Hit the water for another perspective on Venice.

When trying to see Venice in 24 hours or less, there’s one view you definitely can’t miss: the one from the water!

Whether you’re looking to splurge or hope to stay on a budget, there’s a way to admire Venice’s canals up close.

We go into more detail about each of these options on our 2 day Venice itinerary , so head there for more detail, but here are the three basic options.

Splurge: Private Gondola Ride

This will run you 90 Euros for a 30-minute ride during the day, and 110 at night (the price increased starting in November 2023).

The cost is per gondola, not per rider, and the gondolas can carry up to 5 people.

These prices are officially set, but if you book through a hotel or similar, you might be quoted something slightly different.

If you simply walk up to a gondola as you explore, though–which is what we do–that’s what you can expect to pay per boat.

Mid-range: Shared Gondola Ride or Grand Canal Cruise

Don’t have 5 people in your group?

If so, and you’re willing to share your view with strangers, a shared gondola ride is a great option!

Unlike private gondola rides, we recommend booking a shared gondola ride in advance–that way, you’ll have a time pre-set and won’t have to wait and see if anyone else is ready to join in and split the cost with you when you’re ready to ride.

Alternatively, a one-hour Grand Canal Cruise will get you more time on the water than a standard shared gondola ride .

Book your shared gondola ride in Venice today!

Budget: Vaporetto or Traghetto

Trying to spend one day in Venice on a strict budget but don’t want to give up experiencing Grand Canal views?

The vaporetto, or water bus, that runs up and down the Grand Canal will offer up the same views as above for 7.5 Euros/ride.

Sure, it won’t be as relaxing of an environment–but the views are still fabulous (though you may want to consider purchasing a full day pass if you go this route, depending on how much you plan to ride).

Alternatively, if you’re open to a bit of a scavenger hunt, you can enjoy one of our favorite things to do in Venice: riding a traghetto, AKA Venice’s 2-Euro gondola rides (not a typo).

Traghettos are a bit quirky–we go into the details of how to find them in this guide –but if you get a chance to ride one, they’re a fabulous way to cross the Grand Canal.

Try some cicchetti in Dorsoduro or Cannaregio.

There’s no better way to close out your one day in Venice than with cicchetti –aka Venetian tapas.

These delightful little snacks are served up in bars all over Venice, so when aperitivo rolls around from roughly 5-7 PM, sit down with a drink (maybe a Bellini? They were invented in Venice after all!) and a few pieces of cicchetti .

You can do this anywhere in Venice, of course, but Dorsoduro (you can’t go wrong with spending some time in Campo Santa Margherita) and Cannaregio are both quieter (and cheaper!) neighborhoods than San Marco and San Polo.

Either neighborhood will offer a more relaxed ending to your trip to Venice than busier spots and will be a nice change of pace from the hectic nature of Piazza San Marco earlier in the day.

These neighborhoods aren’t deserted by tourists, of course–you’ll see plenty of them–but they’re far, far less crowded.

Since Venice is such a walkable city, and exploring it by foot is such a joy, you can stay just about anywhere in or near the center of Venice and easily work your way through this Venice itinerary.

With only one day in Venice, we don’t recommend staying in Mestre (the mainland) or Giudecca (a separate island that requires a ferry to visit the major highlights of Venice).

You can often find better deals there, but unless you are on an incredibly low budget, your trip to Venice will be greatly enhanced by staying in a hotel or Venice apartment rental within walking distance (even if it’s a long one) of Piazza San Marco.

We’ve stayed in 5 of the 6 sestieri in Venice (Cannaregio, San Marco, Dorsoduro, Santa Croce, and Castello–we’re only missing San Polo), and enjoyed our stays in all of them.

Here are a few well-reviewed properties we can recommend using as your base for this itinerary for Venice, Italy!

Hotel Casa Boccassini  — This cute hotel easily met our needs during our first trip to Venice!

The room was simple but clean, and we found the shared bathroom a fair trade in exchange for their competitive prices in a great location in Cannaregio.

The bathroom was clean and we had a sink in our room, both of which always make shared bathroom situations much easier. The courtyard of the hotel was beautiful!

The hotel was a simple and beautiful 10-minute walk from the Rialto Bridge, and just a 5-minute walk to the vaporetto to the airport.

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Casa Boccassini!

Hotel Lisbona  — We decided to check into Hotel Lisbona for one reason: we wanted to stay on a canal!

If you’re looking to stay right on a canal in Venice without paying luxury prices, we can heartily recommend Hotel Lisbona.

The building is beautiful and definitely has that oh-wow-I’m-in-Venice effect (especially when you look out the windows), the customer service great, and the included breakfast tasty.

The central location (it’s around a 5-minute walk to Piazza San Marco) couldn’t be better.

The downside? The room we stayed in was  tiny –but to be staying right on a Venetian canal in such an amazing location, we definitely considered the trade-off worth it.

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Lisbona!

Hotel Danieli  — If you’re looking for a true luxury experience for your 2 days in Venice–the kind of hotel stay that you’ll remember for the rest of your life–look no further than the iconic Hotel Danieli, located inside 3 former palazzos along the Riva degli Schiavoni.

Every detail has been looked after here, and everything from the furniture to the breakfast to the location (mere steps from the Bridge of Sighs) to the truly stunning lobby will ensure you have an absolutely unforgettable trip to Venice.

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Danieli!

Avoid the temptation to squeeze in visits to outlying islands.

As tempting as it is to squeeze in trips to glass-blowing Murano or colorful Burano , with only one day to explore Venice, we recommend sticking to the city center–it’s more than big enough to explore, even for travelers looking to avoid the beaten path!

The only possible exception?

Giudecca or San Giorgio Maggiore, which are close enough that the time eaten up in transportation is much smaller.

When it comes to attractions, less is more.

Venice is packed full of wonderful things to do… but if you have 24 hours in Venice or less, consider picking just a few of them.

While some cities are all about sights and museums, Venice is more about the atmosphere than anything–so enjoy it!

If you’re not much of a museum person and would rather spend all afternoon sitting along canals, you’re still going to walk away having seen some of the best of Venice.

Don’t sit down at a restaurant without checking reviews.

Every city with a heavy tourism presence struggles with the existence of mediocre to just plain bad restaurants that exist purely to separate visitors from their money… but Venice has a higher ratio than most.

While you can find delicious food in Venice, it’s easy to find duds, too.

To avoid any issues, be sure to do a quick check of the online reviews of a place before sitting down (and if someone is beckoning you off the street and trying to hurry you to a table, you can virtually guarantee the food isn’t great–so just keep moving).

If you’re overwhelmed by crowds, just keep walking.

We’ve had several friends tell us that they didn’t like Venice because of the crowds–and while we understand the city isn’t for everyone, that makes us so sad to hear, because Venice’s crowds are very easy to avoid.

If you find yourself overwhelmed and not having a good time due to the congestion, simply set your GPS to an out-of-the-way destination (Punta della Dogana or the Basilica di San Pietro di Castello are just two ideas of many) and walk that way.

Even on the busiest days of the year, you’ll quickly find that the crowds disappear–but the canals, footbridges, beautiful churches, and charming buildings do not.

Spend time in Venice after dark if you can.

Even if you’re not spending the night in Venice, try to schedule your departure for later in the evening!

Venice after dark is absolute magic, thanks not only to the atmosphere of winding canals lit by restaurant lights but to the dramatically decreased crowds (and in the summer, heat).

It’s one of our absolute favorite times in the city, and if you have a chance to experience it for yourself, be sure to take it.

If you’re visiting Venice on a day trip, be aware of potential fees.

As you’ve been researching your one day trip to Venice, you’ve quite possibly come across some confusing information about Venice charging a day trip tax to visitors who don’t spend the night.

… Or that they will soon, or that it has been postponed, or some combination thereof.

Long story short, after years of debate and delays, Venice is charging some daytrippers an entry fee as of April 2024. For 2024, the tax (or entry fee, if you will) applies to people visiting Venice for the day on one of  these specific dates .

You can check if your date qualifies, see if you or anyone in your party (like children under the age of 14) qualifies for an exception, as well as pay the fee,  on the official website .

If you’re spending at least one night in Venice, this fee doesn’t apply to you, as your contribution to the city is covered via the tourist tax you pay directly to your hotel.

… and plan enough time to get back to the train station!

Getting from the center of Venice’s sightseeing hotspots (like Piazza San Marco, for instance) to Piazza San Marco to the Venezia Santa Lucia train station takes roughly 30 minutes on foot, or possibly slightly less via vaporetto , depending on how you catch the schedule.

If you have to catch a train back to accommodation in a different city after spending the day in Venice, be sure to leave plenty of time to get to the station, especially if you know you’ll be tempted to stop for photos, souvenir shopping , or gelato along the way.

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About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

10 thoughts on “How to Spend One Perfect Day in Venice (Itinerary + Travel Tips)”

Thanks for this! Will be heading to Venice in September with my partner and our moms and I know we’ll want to tick off some of the big must-see items. I’m a bit worried for the crowds but will take your advice and try to head to the main sights early in the day. Will also check out your two day itinerary for more tips, and hope to squeeze in a side visit to Burano/Murano!

Oh, I hope you have so much fun! Fingers crossed you don’t find the crowds too overwhelming. :-) They’re definitely bad near Piazza San Marco and the Rialto Bridge, but lighten up VERY quickly once you’re away from there (or if you beat the day trippers out to them). Good luck with your visit!

We will be in Italy mid-February 2020. Is this a good itinerary for February or is it too cold for some places?

As long as it’s not raining, February is perfect for this itinerary–it may be a bit foggy and you’ll definitely want to bundle up, but Venice is beautiful during winter! Sounds like you’ll probably overlap with Carnevale, too, so you’ll probably get to see some incredible costumes during your trip!

Very nice tips! Any special recommendations of visiting in May?

Enjoy the (hopefully) beautiful weather!

May is a gorgeous time to be in Venice, but keep in mind that it will still be quite chilly in the mornings or evenings (average lows in the 50s F).

Sorry for asking in the wrong article may be. Is it Ok to start my trip with venice and then travel to florence and then rome , for a 8 day trip. Hoping to spend more time in Rome and also may be a day trip to the amalfi coast via rome. Even our return flight will be from Rome . SO asking

Of course! Traveling from north to south definitely works. :-) I do recommend booking a guided tour for a day trip to the Amalfi Coast from Rome, though–it’s very far away and logistically challenging to do yourself!

Do you know how long the boat trip would be to Murano and back? Do you know when the last train leaves to head back to Florence? We will be there March 22nd. TIA

Hi Misty! If you catch the direct vaporetto, it’s only 15-20 minutes each way between Venice and Murano. For the trains, I’d recommend checking the train schedule online! :-) ItaliaRail, Italo, and Omio will all have schedule information (Omio covers both companies).

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• Best of Venice in One Day
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BEST OF VENICE IN ONE DAY TOUR

• Best of Venice in One Day Tour

Tour details

All the must see sites of venice in one full day.

Join us for an exhilarating walking tour of the spectacular city of Venice . With an English-speaking guide , explore the historic sites including an extended tour of St. Mark’s Basilica . There’s no waiting with skip-the-line access . Your tour is private and comfortable.

Whether you’re in Venice for the day or for an extended stay, you’ll get a real taste of Venetian culture as you wander the alleyways and see the city’s hidden gems. In about two hours, we’ll cover the highlights of this ancient city, leaving you plenty of time to dine, explore and re-visit points of interest.

Our tour includes the following:

Ponte di Rialto and Memorable Sights

This marble beauty known the world over was quite an architectural undertaking in its day. It has become a beloved Venetian landmark, worth every penny it cost to build. Its magnificent reflection glistens in the water below, making for a stunning photograph. We’ll stop at Marco Polo’s home to learn of this son of Venice who regaled his people with tales of another world, the Far East. And, when in Venice, what better to do than people-watch in a local campo (square)? Marvel at spectacular structures and observe the locals in their daily routines.

Our tour would be incomplete without some time spent in the main square of Venice, the Piazza San Marco, or St. Mark’s Square . The basilica overlooks this marble expanse. Napoleon once called it “ the finest drawing room in all Europe .” Sit back and let the sun warm you, as an orchestral melody fills the air. From here, we’ll gaze up at the imposing Palazzo Ducale, or Doge’s Palace, where Casanova was imprisoned for his exploits. This Gothic palace was once the residence of the chief magistrate, or doge.

Optional Doge’s Palace Walking Tour

Add an in-depth exploration of this fascinating historic site to your tour of Venice. See the frescoed ceilings of Tintoretto , Viennese paintings , and a mysterious wooden slot where accusations of treason were passed to the Secret Police. See the Bridge of Sighs. Named by Lord Byron, it poetically refers to a criminal’s last view of Venice as he crossed the Rio di Palazzo to prison. You may enjoy this optional tour when our main tour concludes.

Basilica di San Marco

Check our pictures of Facebook of the previous tours.... Clich here to see the pics!

• Duration: Approximately 6 hours
• When: Available everyday.
• Dressing code: comfortable, shoulders and knees should be covered to enter churches..
• Stress-free: we can provide you trasnportation from cruise ship, train station or your hotel.

I would recommend this tour 100%. If you are first time like me in Venice, this is the best way to know the city. You will see everything in different eyes. Tour guide was amazing, these people really know what they are doing, very professional. Most important during this pandemic - it is totally safe to do so. You will never see again Venice so clearly like during this time. Sandra T., Germany

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How to See the Best of Venice in One Day (+Map, Itinerary & Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: March 29, 2024

Visiting Venice, Italy, for the first time, have just 1 day in Venice, and wondering how to make the absolute most of your short visit to this beautiful city? In this article, we share our top tips on how to see the best of Venice in one day . We also include a map and a suggested Venice 1-day itinerary . Find out!

Planning your first visit to Venice might be quite overwhelming. Where exactly to go, what to see, and how to make sure that you don’t miss anything important? It’s even harder if you are trying to squeeze all the musts in a day…

With just one day in Venice, there is no way to see ‘everything’. But you can see all the top places that Venice is famous for.

In this article, you can find our experience-based tips and suggestions with the 1-day Venice itinerary exactly as we did it . It includes all the main landmarks and also a few lesser-known places that will make your Venice day trip even more special.

This will give you a good idea of what you can see and do in Venice in a day and how to plan your time. Find out!

Good to know: For this 1-day Venice itinerary, you will need to prebook the following tickets:

• St. Mark’s Campanile .
• St. Mark’s Basilica .
• Doge’s Palace .

Alternatively, you can also get this digital Venice Pass that includes most of the top places that you can visit in Venice in a day: a gondola ride, Doge’s Palace, and St. Mark’s Basilica, plus a digital audio guide. Further below, you can also find more information about gondola rides and guided tours of the main attractions.

READ ALSO: Top Sights & Attractions in Venice

• Top places to visit in Venice in one day
• Map & tips for exploring Venice
• Arrival – where to start
• Venice 1 day itinerary
• Where to eat
• Where to stay

These are the best things to do in Venice in one day:

Venice Canals

Taking a walk through the maze of narrow streets and canals is one of the best ways to discover Venice as it really is. It’s an eclectic mix of old colorful buildings, narrow canals, even narrower streets, boats, gondolas, shops, restaurants, and people…

Some canals, streets, and town squares are extremely picturesque, while some others are quite run-down. But no matter which street you turn into or which bridge you cross, you’ll be enchanted by this fascinating city. Venice is truly one of a kind.

Further below, you’ll find a list of all the main Venice landmarks that you absolutely have to see. However, don’t limit your visit to just ‘the musts’! Try to take some time to get just a bit off the beaten path and simply walk around. Exploring Venice on foot is something you must do in order to get a complete picture of this unique floating city!

Gondola Ride

As you explore Venice, you’ll notice gondoliers almost at every little bridge, inviting you for a gondola ride on the canals. They can be found all over the city center in Venice and offer private gondola rides.

The price for a gondola ride is the same everywhere, the only thing that differs is the route and the gondolier. So also here, no two gondola rides in Venice will be the same.

TIP: If you absolutely want to be able to do a gondola ride at a specific time and specific location, book in advance . Otherwise, you should be able to find a gondola on the spot, but that might mean that you’ll have to wait much longer, especially in the high season.

A traditional gondola ride is such a bucket-list thing to do in Venice (and one you shouldn’t miss), but sometimes it just doesn’t live up to your expectations. In order to help you have a truly unforgettable gondola ride, I compiled a guide with our top tips and recommendations for a better experience. Check it out via the link below!

LEARN MORE: Venice Gondola Tips

St. Mark’s Square

St. Mark’s Square ( Piazza San Marco ) is an iconic landmark that is not to be missed when visiting Venice for a day. Dating back to the 12th century, this is the largest town square in Venice. It’s here that you’ll find many of the city’s most famous buildings and probably spend the biggest part of your day in Venice.

You can’t miss the impressive St. Mark’s Basilica and Campanile as well as Doges’ Palace (more info below). But do take note of the other buildings as well. Don’t overlook the 15th-century Clock Tower of Venice (Torre dell’Orologio). It’s located on the northern side of the square and has an impressive archway leading to Merceria Street.

Good to know: If you choose to arrive in the city center by water bus , you’ll likely start your day at St Mark’s Square. In that case, head straight to the Campanile, Basilica, or Doge’s Palace before most day tourists arrive. The queues at all these three landmarks can get really long, so be prepared for that.

St. Mark’s Campanile

St. Mark’s Campanile ( Campanile di San Marco ) is the Bell Tower of St. Mark’s Basilica and the unmistakable symbol of Venice. The historic tower is the tallest building in Venice and its origins date to the Middle Ages. After the old tower collapsed, Campanile was completely rebuilt in 1912.

The tower is not attached to the cathedral and can be visited separately. From the top, you have the best 360° views over the city center of Venice and the lagoon. The good news is also that there is an elevator that brings you all the way to the top, so everyone can easily enjoy these great views of Venice.

Practical information: The Bell Tower is open daily; hours vary depending on the season. In July and August, the tower is usually open from 9 AM to 9 PM. In spring and autumn – from 9 AM to 7 PM.

Good to know: It is now possible to book timed entry tickets online in advance (highly recommended if you don’t want to waste time!). In principle, also in the summer season, you can just get the tickets on the spot but expect to queue for at least an hour and be prepared to stand in a long line without any shade.

Is it worth it? With just one day in Venice and the possibility of long queues at its major attractions, you might be wondering if Venice Campanile is worth a visit. We’ve been on top of Campanile almost every time we visited Venice and we find that it’s worth it every time again. The views are stunning!

To me, this is one of the absolute best experiences in the city. It’s also a great attraction for kids. And if you can pre-book the tickets, it only takes 15-20 minutes to visit – totally worth it!

Saint Mark’s Basilica

St. Mark’s Basilica ( Basilica di San Marco ) is the Cathedral of Venice and one of the must-see landmarks in the city. The original church dates from the 9th century and it was built as a chapel of the adjacent Doge’s Palace. Only in the early 19th century St. Mark’s became the city’s cathedral.

The Italo-Byzantine church is quite impressive from a distance, but you should also take the time to admire its beautiful facade from close by. The colorful mosaics are absolutely stunning!

The interior of this church is extremely impressive too, but it’s very dark and usually so busy that it’s difficult to appreciate what you see. If you go inside, don’t miss the Pala d’Oro, the Transept Chapels, St. Mark’s Tomb, and the impressive domes and marble floor mosaics.

Good to know: A visit to the Cathedral now requires a timed-entry ticket (and they sell out, so book early to be able to choose a time slot).

TIP: If you want to make the most of your visit with just a day in Venice, you’ll need this ticket that includes Pala d’Oro and Terraces . These are the most impressive parts of the Basilica, but access is more limited so they are not included with the standard ticket.

Instead of visiting the Basilica, you can also just opt for a visit to only St. Mark’s Museum and the terraces (small fee). From the museum, you get a good look at the interior of the cathedral and you also get access to the 1st-floor balcony overlooking St. Mark’s Square and the Campanile. We found the museum itself quite small and not that interesting (religious art lovers will probably disagree), but the terraces are worth it.

However, St. Mark’s Basilica is one of the most beautiful churches in Italy and truly a must-see. Plus, with the skip-the-line tickets nowadays it doesn’t take that long to visit. So get the full ticket and go explore this impressive masterpiece!

TIP: Alternatively, you can opt for this highly-rated guided tour that includes the Doges’ Palace and the terraces at St. Mark’s Basilica . With just a day in Venice (and especially if visiting in high season), it can be a more relaxing way to see these two main landmarks.

Doge’s Palace

Doge’s Palace ( Palazzo Ducale ) is another landmark that you should really try to see, even if you have just 1 day in Venice. This impressive 14th-century palace was the residence of the Doge of Venice, the supreme authority of the former Venetian Republic. It also served as the seat of the Venetian government and part of the building also housed a medieval prison.

Nowadays, Doge’s Palace is a museum. It’s one of the best places to learn more about the history of the city of Venice and the most glorious period of the Venetian Republic.

We are not really fans of museums and I never expected to be so impressed by Doges’ Palace. But I truly was and so were my husband and the kids. The architecture of the building is stunning and the courtyard is very impressive. But the most beautiful are the Doge’s apartments and the institutional chambers. This place is so big and one room is more beautiful than the previous one…

The cells of the medieval prison are also really interesting to see. The contrast between the ornate chambers of the palace and the cold humid underground cells could not be bigger! The famous Bridge of Sighs also lets you access the ‘new’ 16th-century prison on the other side of the canal.

Good to know: Count at least 1-1.5 hours for a visit to Doge’s Palace, not including the queuing time. This is one of the most popular places to see in Venice and it’s always busy. So if you are not taking a guided tour, make sure to get priority access tickets !

TIP: If there is one place in Venice that you really should try to visit with a guide, it’s here. There’s so much history in this place! You can learn so much more by going with a local guide who can tell you all the stories and anecdotes. Furthermore, guided tours usually prebook priority access which saves you lots of time and frustration by not having to figure out all the practicalities by yourself.

Here are the best ticket & tour options for Doge’s Palace:

• Skip-the-line entrance ticket .
• Guided tour .
• Doge’s Palace + St. Mark’s Basilica guided tour .
• Exclusive after-hours tour of Doge’s Palace & St. Mark’s Basilica .

LEARN MORE: Complete Guide to Visiting Doge’s Palace

Bridge of Sighs

The Bridge of Sighs ( Ponte dei Sospiri ) that connects the Doge’s Palace to the ‘new’ prisons (see above) is also impressive from the outside.

You can admire the exterior of this covered bridge from the Ponte della Paglia, a small bridge at the waterfront promenade Riva degli Schiavoni. There is also another bridge a bit further away from where you also get a good view of the Bridge of Sighs.

The name of this iconic bridge dates from around the 18th century. It refers to the sighs of the prisoners who took the last glimpse of the outside world through the tiny openings of this enclosed bridge when being brought to their cells.

Riva degli Schiavoni

The famous waterfront promenade of Venice, Riva degli Schiavoni is another place you just have to check out when visiting Venice.

It’s a wide pedestrian promenade that stretches from Piazza San Marco to the east and is lined with cafes, restaurants, and countless souvenir stands and shops. Boats, water buses, and water taxis dock here and there are several gondola stands here as well.

This is probably the busiest area of Venice and no matter when you visit, it’s always very lively. It’s also extremely touristy with not much authenticity left. So just stroll a small part of the promenade in order to get an idea of what it’s about, but remember that there are better places to spend your time than here.

Grand Canal

Grand Canal ( Canal Grande (Italian) or Canal Grando (Veneto)) is the major waterway in Venice. World-famous for its stunning palaces, Grand Canal is the best place to see the most beautiful Venetian architecture.

This wide channel divides the city into two parts and there are only 4 bridges connecting both sides. Grand Canal is about 3.8 km (2.4 miles) long and is the bustling heart of Venice. Water buses, water taxis, private boats, and gondolas are buzzing in all directions creating a fascinating chaos.

It’s always fun to watch the hive of activity here. So if you have some time to spare, you may want to get some coffee at one of the cafés by the Grand Canal and stay here for a while. Alternatively, head to Rialto Bridge and do some boat-watching from above.

TIP: There are several ways to explore the Grand Canal: taking a water bus , a boat tour , a water taxi , or a gondola . You can also walk along small sections of the canal in the area south of Rialto Bridge and at a few other locations. And, of course, the views from the bridges over the canal are always great.

Rialto Bridge

Rialto Bridge ( Ponte di Rialto ) is one of the most famous landmarks in Venice. So even if you only have a day in the floating city, this bridge is absolutely not to be missed.

Built at the end of the 16th century, the Rialto Bridge is the oldest and the most impressive of the four bridges of the Grand Canal. Just as Ponte Vecchio in Florence, Ponte di Rialto is lined with shops and is crowded with tourists.

I find that the bridge is best admired from below and my personal favorite photo spots for photographing Rialto Bridge are from Riva del Vin and Riva del Ferro. Once you are on the bridge itself, it’s so busy that it’s difficult to admire the structure (and you have to watch out for pickpockets!).

TIP: If you somehow manage to arrive straight at Rialto Bridge (so not via the waterside promenades along the Grand Canal), don’t cross it just yet. Some of the best views of the bridge are to be found at Riva del Vin , a waterside promenade on the western side of the Grand Canal. The views from Riva del Ferro on the other side are also not to be missed.

Campo San Polo

If you walk between Rialto Bridge and Piazzale Roma, you’re likely to pass Campo San Polo on your way. This is a nice town square with a very local atmosphere.

There are no shops and just two or three restaurants here and a few trees offering highly-needed shade in summer. The highlight of this square is the Rettoriale Church of San Polo . Sometimes, there are also local events taking place in the square. I hear that Campo San Polo is particularly nice in winter when they have an ice skating rink and some places serving mulled wine.

This is not an absolute must-see, however, and with just one day in Venice, don’t feel that you have to go out of your way for it. But if you’re nearby anyway, Campo San Polo is a nice (and somewhat less-touristy) place to check out.

Libreria Acqua Alta

I want to end this guide to one day in Venice with a ‘hidden gem’ of the city, Libreria Acqua Alta . The name of this unique bookshop literally means ‘the bookstore of high water’ and it’s been designed in such a way that most of its books are protected from potential flooding. Many books are stored in boats and other waterproof containers.

Since the bookstore is extremely picturesque and ‘Instagrammable’, it’s no longer a secret of Venice. To give you an idea of how popular it has become… We visited Venice on an exceptionally quiet day and this tiny store looked like the busiest place in town! We even had to wait in line in order to get inside…

Anyway, it’s quite a unique place and still worth a visit if you have some time to spare in Venice. The only drawback is that it’s a bit outside of the way from any of the main landmarks, but if you don’t get lost too much, it’s just 15 minutes walk from San Marco Square. In addition, walking here brings you to some lesser-visited parts of Venice and that in itself is always a nice experience.

Practical information: Libreria Acqua Alta is open daily from around 9 AM to 7.45 PM.

Map & Tips for Exploring Venice in 1 Day

Below, you can see a map with the highlights of Venice that are mentioned in this article. Don’t look for a ‘walking map’ or exact directions on where to go, however. Once you get to Venice, you’ll realize that discovering this car-free city with a map would be a very stressful experience…

With over 100 little islands, separated by canals and connected by small bridges and a labyrinth of narrow ‘streets’, Venice is the city to get lost in.

That’s also what makes it so unique and no two trips to Venice will ever be the same. You’ll simply never be able to replicate the exact same route you took before… So prepare to get lost in this incredible maze of narrow alleys, picturesque canals, centuries-old houses, and countless little squares that make Venice so special.

Good to know: Don’t worry too much about where exactly to go. There are plenty of signs around the city pointing you to the main landmarks such as Rialto Bridge or San Marco Square, and also to Ferrovia (Venice Railway Station) and Piazzale Roma (the main transport hub and parking area). Funny enough, often, signs point to the same place but in two different directions. In the end, you always get where you need to be (albeit with a few detours).

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

Where to Start Upon Arrival

If you are visiting Venice for a day, chances are high that you’ll start your tour at Piazzale Roma (if arriving by car or by bus) or Ferrovia (if coming by train). Big cruise ships also dock near this area, at Santa Croce or Tronchetto.

No matter where exactly you arrive, you have two options on how to get to the center: take a boat or walk.

If you are in a hurry or have mobility issues, you can take a water bus or a water taxi to the San Marco Square/ Riva degli Schiavoni area and head straight to the main landmarks of Venice. Water taxis are quite expensive and a boat ride between Piazzale Roma and San Marco will quickly cost you 70-80 EUR. In comparison, a water bus Vaporetto costs about 9.50 EUR per ride, with 1-day and multi-day passes available (and much better value than a single ride).

However, if you are fit and want to explore Venice deeper, I suggest walking instead. That way, you visit the lesser-known areas before reaching the main highlights. This is your chance to explore Venice just a bit deeper and better appreciate what this city is truly about.

TIP: Alternatively, you can take a boat one way and walk back after visiting the main landmarks. Taking the boat right to St Marco Square first thing in the morning might enable you to visit at least one of the landmarks before it gets too busy.

READ ALSO: How to Visit Venice by Car & Best Italy Itinerary for the First Trip

Venice One Day Itinerary

Here is an overview of how you could spend 1 day in Venice:

• Start with a morning gondola ride or leave it for the end of the day (see our Venice gondola ride guide for more info).
• Head to St. Mark’s Square and visit St. Mark’s Campanile . Check the opening hours for the season when you are visiting and try to be there a bit before the opening time. Book Campanile tickets upfront if you can – it will save you so much time!
• Book tickets for a self-guided visit to Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica. Alternatively, book a tour (I recommend this tour ). Most of these tours start at around 10-11 AM and take 2-3 hours. Alternatively, leave these two top attractions for later and see if you can visit with this amazing after-hours tour (limited availability, but well worth it!).
• Lunch – see ‘ where to eat ‘ section below for more info.
• Take a stroll on Riva degli Schiavoni .
• In the afternoon , you could either explore the city center further (see suggestions below), or take a 4-5hr tour to Murano and Burano islands (one of the best things to do in Venice beyond the city center itself!). You can then explore the city center when you return – it all depends on how much time you actually have and what your interests are.
• If you stay in the city, walk to Libreria Acqua Alta and discover Venice canals along the way. Skip this if you are short on time or if that much walking is too much for you.
• Walk to Grand Canal and Rialto Bridge .
• Get gelato at one of the artisanal gelaterias, stroll along the narrow streets, and do some souvenir shopping if that’s your thing.
• Visit Campo San Polo and explore some local churches, town squares, and streets in this area.
• Take a gondola ride if you didn’t have the time for it in the morning.

Where to Eat

I didn’t include any suggestions on where to eat in Venice simply because I don’t think it matters that much if you only have such limited time in the city. Also, it’s impossible to plan every minute of your day in advance so who knows where exactly you’ll be when you decide it’s time to have lunch or dinner… So here are some general tips.

If you can, try to avoid the overly-touristy and overpriced restaurants on St. Mark’s Square and Riva degli Schiavoni . Even if you walk just a few blocks away from here, you should be able to find some better price/ quality eateries.

As for Italian gelatos, try to look for places that sell artisanal ice cream . So ‘gelateria artisanale ‘ instead of just ‘ gelateria ‘. Artisanal ice cream tends to be much better!

TIP: If you have a bit more time in Venice and can spare a few hours for a nice lunch or dinner, make sure to try some local specialties. For suggestions on what to eat in Venice, please take a look at our Italian food guide with specialties of the Veneto region .

READ ALSO: Where to eat in Rome

Where to Stay in Venice

Visiting Venice for a day might mean that you are not planning to stay in the city at all. But, depending on your overall itinerary, it’s also likely that you’ll have to stay in Venice for one or two nights.

We recommend choosing accommodation in the area that has good transport connections . So that you don’t have to carry your luggage far or pay for expensive water taxis.

There are many hotels, apartments, and B&Bs in Venice. Below, you can find our suggestions on where to stay depending on how you travel. Take a look!

• If you are driving to Venice by car , here you can find our suggestions for the best places to stay when visiting Venice by car .
• If you are arriving by train or by bus , you may want to stay close to the train station. In that case, check out Hotel Carlton On The Grand Canal or Hotel Gardena . This area is also more budget-friendly than the San Marco area. Of course, you can just take a water bus to Rialto or San Marco as well – see our suggestions below.
• If you are arriving by plane , take this shared water taxi airport transfer and book a hotel in the city center. In most cases, it will drop you off very close to your hotel. For some hotels that are located on the islands outside the center (e.g. San Clemente Palace Kempinski ), it drops you off right at your hotel.
• However, for sightseeing , it’s more convenient to stay in the area close to San Marco Square or Rialto Bridge . If your budget allows it, check out one of the most iconic hotels in Venice, Hotel Danieli (€€€€€€). For somewhat more affordable options, check out some of the best price/quality hotels like Hotel Casanova or Hotel Rialto (€€€).

TIP: Using the map below, you can find some of the best deals for your stay in Venice. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see what’s available for your budget.

So, this is our guide to the very best of Venice in one day. Hope that it helps you plan an unforgettable trip and have a great time in Venice!

If you have more time in the city, be sure to take a look at our suggested 3-day Venice itinerary . Even if you only have a day and a half or two days, it will give you some nice additional ideas for things to see and do. It’s also filled with local’s recommendations, tips, and includes several local restaurants.

If you are traveling around Italy and are looking for more travel guides and inspiration, make sure to check our Italy travel guide . It has an overview of all the destination guides from our countless trips to Italy.

Alternatively, take a look at some of the highlighted articles below.

More travel inspiration and tips for Italy:

• Where to go: Best Places to Visit in Italy & Most Beautiful Italian Cities
• How to plan your time: Italy Itinerary
• What to eat: Italian Food by Region
• Milan: Best Things to Do in Milan & Milan in One Day
• Rome: Tips for Visiting Rome & Best Things to Do in Rome & Hidden Gems of Rome
• Rome itineraries: 1 Day in Rome & 2 Days in Rome & 4 Days Rome Itinerary
• Florence: Best Things to Do in Florence & 1 Day in Florence & Florence Rooftops with Best Views
• Cinque Terre: How to See the Best of Cinque Terre in One Day & Where to Stay in Cinque Terre
• Tuscany: Most Beautiful Towns in Tuscany & Tuscany Itinerary
• Amalfi Coast: Amalfi Coast Itinerary & Capri Island & Amalfi Coast Travel Tips
• Naples: Best Things to Do in Naples & 1 Day in Naples & Best Day Trips from Naples & Where to Stay in Naples
• Emilia Romagna: Emilia Romagna Itinerary & Bologna & Rimini & Ravenna
• Italian Lakes: Lake Garda & Lake Como & Bellagio & Where to Stay at Lake Como & Most Beautiful Lakes in the Dolomites & Lake Como Travel Tips
• Italian Mountains: Best Places in the Dolomites & Best Hikes in the Dolomites

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

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Sunday 3rd of October 2021

Somehow I can never figure out these comments on a web site but anyway you did a lot of research. Whave been to Rome 3 times in the last 18 months but fell down the Palatine Hill and smashed my knee and unfortunately can't do much walking but I have a go so four days were wasted. We say at the Residensi Marinetti when in Rome but know Venice quite well too.

We are going to Carcassonne in two weeks and Barcelona which is not far from Gandia where we live. At the end of the year I want to go back to Rome as you are unveiling more places to see although you missed one out. The Jewish quarter. The food is amazing. Waiting for the artichokes to become available to follow one of their recipes.

Only place I didn't want to go is where the cats are. I can't remember where we stayed in Venice. Perhaps you can help.

My knee I'm sorry to say won't get any better I have a place knee cap and plastic bit that goes down my leg but praying that I will get a bit better

Thanks again. Anne In Gandia. Spain.

Ps did u take the children to see the big railway station in France. They are doing it up so should be open now.

Tuesday 5th of October 2021

Hi Ana, thanks for sharing all your experiences and sorry to hear about your knee. Hope it's better now. We haven't really missed the Jewish Quarter in Rome and the artichokes are quite good indeed. It just never occurred to me that this would be considered a hidden gem in Rome, but maybe it is... Anyway, we ourselves are also going to Rome soon, so we'll be updating our articles/ publishing new ones after that trip. For France, I have no idea what station you are talking about. :) It's a huge country with so many stations, but no, we aren't planning any immediate trips there. Anyway, enjoy Carcassone and Barcelona - such a beautiful area you live in! Happy travels.

VeniceDayTours.com

Venice, a city of captivating canals and timeless beauty, offers an array of enchanting day tours that reveal its unique essence. Stepping onto the cobbled streets or into the gondolas, visitors embark on journeys that illuminate the city’s history, artistry, and romantic allure.

One of the most cherished options is the “Venice Walking Tour,” a passage through the labyrinthine streets that lead to iconic sites like St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace. As history echoes through the architecture, knowledgeable guides spin tales of Venice’s maritime supremacy and cultural richness, painting a vivid picture of its past.

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The allure of the Grand Canal is unveiled in the “Venice Gondola Ride,” where the gentle sway of the gondola narrates a story of centuries-old traditions. Gazing at elegant palaces and charming bridges from the water, visitors immerse themselves in the romance that defines the city.

For those seeking artistic treasures, the “Venice Art Tour” opens the doors to magnificent galleries like the Accademia, home to masterpieces by Venetian luminaries. The tour unveils the influence of the city’s artistic legacy, with each brushstroke and sculpture offering a glimpse into Venice’s creative soul.

Venturing beyond the city’s heart, the “Venetian Islands Tour” whisks visitors away to Murano, Burano, and Torcello, each with its own distinct charm. The glass-blowing prowess of Murano, the colorful tapestry of Burano’s houses, and the serene beauty of Torcello’s basilica create a mosaic of experiences.

Culinary enthusiasts are beckoned by the “Venice Food Tour,” where local markets and bacari unfold the flavors of Venetian cuisine. From fresh seafood to cicchetti, these tours celebrate the city’s gastronomic heritage, inviting visitors to savor each bite amidst the charming Venetian backdrop.

In the realm of Venice day tours, a world of exploration unfolds. Whether navigating the intricate streets or gliding along the canals, each tour unveils a facet of Venice’s allure. From its history to its art, romance, and flavors, these tours offer a passport to understanding the magic that sets Venice apart.

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9 best venice tours: st. mark's basilica & more.

Explore one of the world's most beautiful cities on these top tours.

The Best Venice Tours

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Known for its canals, waterways, bridges and other historic attractions , Venice, Italy, offers travelers everything from centuries-old history to unparalleled beauty. Some of the best Venice tours take you to the quietest areas of the city – away from the crowds – to discover Venice's cuisine, wine and culture, while others showcase the city from the water by gondola or kayak. Consulting both traveler opinion and expert input, U.S. News identified the tours below as the best Venice has to offer.

Avventure Bellissime – Venice in 1 Day Tour

Price: Adults from 119 euros (about $129); kids from 104 euros (about $113) Duration: 3 hours

If you're short on time, consider this three-hour tour that hits multiple of Venice's top attractions. You'll enjoy skip-the-line access to St. Mark's Basilica , as well as a two-hour walking tour (capped at 20 participants) passing sights like Doge's Palace , St. Mark's Square , the Bridge of Sighs , the Rialto Bridge and more. The final leg of your tour is reserved for exploring Venice's world-famous waterways on a one-hour boat ride down the Grand Canal . This is a great way to see much of Venice in just one day, according to tourgoers. Travelers also say it's a great value.

Complimentary headphones are included. Tours run Monday to Saturday around 2:30 p.m. Note: Your shoulders, stomachs and knees must be covered to enter St. Mark's Basilica; large bags are prohibited inside as well. Know, too, that St. Mark's Basilica only offers skip-the-line tickets from April to October.

Check prices & availability on:

Venice Free Walking Tour – Campo SS Apostoli Venice Through the Centuries: North

Price: Free Duration: 2.5 hours

This tour could be a great way to start your visit to Venice. According to reviewers, valuable information is shared on the walk, including locals' recommendations of the best restaurants and places to visit, which could serve you well during the rest of your trip. Though each guide takes travelers along a slightly different route, you'll likely see some of the city's top attractions, learn about its centuries-old history and see much of its incredible architecture.

Tours depart daily at 11 a.m. from Campo Santi Apostoli in front of the well and travel to the eastern part of the Cannaregio district and the western part of the Castello district. The company asks you to consider donating what you think the tour is worth at its conclusion. Additionally, you must reserve a spot online in advance (there is a booking fee of 3 euros, or about $3, per participant). The company offers a couple of other sightseeing tours throughout Venice, as well.

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Venice Kids Tours – A Thrilling Secret Journey Into the Doge's Palace

Price: From 90 euros (about $97) per hour, per party Duration: 2 hours

Ideal for families with kids ages 7 to 18, this tour explores Doge's Palace. Guides lead families through some of the hidden corridors and secret passages not open to the general public as they share stories about the building's history. Also on the agenda is the attic prison, the former torture chamber and the armory, among other spots. Reviewers say their kids love the tour and recommend it to other families.

Kids must be at least 6 years old to tour; the company does not recommend the tour for pregnant women, or for those who have mobility problems or are claustrophobic. Trips depart in the morning only and are limited to five people. Venice Kids Tours offers other family-focused activities, such as scavenger hunts, walking tours and boat tours.

City Wonders – Murano & Burano Islands Small Group Tour by Private Boat

Price: Adults from $47; kids from $42 Duration: 5 hours

Explore two of Venice's most beautiful islands on this outing. You'll first journey to Murano by boat to see a glassmaking demonstration followed by time to shop and explore on your own. You'll then cruise to Burano, where you'll observe Italian women crafting lace by hand, visit a lace museum and stroll around the island. Travelers say the tour is educational and are pleased with the informative guides. Others wish they were given more time to explore the islands.

Tours run a few times daily, normally between 9 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. (and vary by season). City Wonders also operates tours of the Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Basilica, among other Venetian hot spots.

Courtesy of Walks of Italy)

Walks of Italy – Exclusive Alone in St. Mark's Basilica After Hours

Price: Adults from $90; kids from $86 Duration: 1.5 hours

This special tour treats you to an inside look at St. Mark's Basilica after it closes its doors to the general public. Guides lead no more than 25 tourgoers inside the basilica, sharing stories of its history as you explore. In addition, you'll visit the crypt, which is not open to the public during normal visiting hours. The crypt is said to house St. Mark's remains, as well as the Pala d'Oro altarpiece, which is adorned with nearly 2,000 gems. Tour-takers say after-hours is a wonderful time to see the cathedral and that guides are passionate and informed.

Tour times depend on the day, but generally depart between 7 and 9:45 p.m. several times a week. The company also offers a secret passages tour of the Doge's Palace, gondola rides and food tours, among other options.

Raphael Tours & Events – Rialto Food Tour in Venice

Price: From $103 Duration: 4 hours

On this tour, you'll explore Rialto by way of your taste buds as your guide takes you to pastry shops, wine bars, restaurants and markets. Along the way, you'll sample meats, cheeses, wines (including sparkling), polenta, olives and more. Travelers say the tour is wonderful and offers plenty to eat. They also appreciate the stories guides share during the adventure.

The tour operates daily, and start times are customizable. Raphael Tours also operates a walking tour of Venice.

Intrepid Urban Adventures – Cicchetti & Wine Tour of Venice

Price: From $107 Duration: 2.5 hours

Support the local economy on this foodie trip that takes you to locally owned and operated businesses to sample Venetian cuisine. During the tour, you'll eat seven cicchetti dishes (think: polenta, seafood and vegetables), drink five glasses of wine and indulge in one dessert. Though you may pass by some big sights like St. Mark's Square, you'll mostly visit less-touristy spots in the Rialto area of the city. Plus, you'll get to ride in a gondola. Travelers praise the tour guides and compliment the food and wine chosen.

Tours are typically offered Monday through Saturday at 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. While this is the company's sole Venice tour, you can tour with Intrepid Urban Adventures in Florence and Rome , too.

Venice Kayak – Premium Day Kayak Tour

Price: From 110 euros (about $119) Duration: 2.5 hours

Kayak your way through the Venetian lagoon on this trip. You'll immerse yourself in a new perspective as you paddle through canals. The company recommends you have a bit of paddling experience. If you don't, you may be able to ride in a double kayak with a more experienced paddler. Tourgoers say this is a wonderful way to see things you won't see on a regular tour and describe it as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Tickets include the use of all equipment, dry bags and shower facilities after your tour. (You may want to bring a change of clothes). Trips run daily at 5p.m. Venice Kayak offers a nighttime tour as well.

ShowMe Venice – The Secret Venice

Price: From $43 Duration: 2 hours

If you want to experience Venice like a true Venetian, travelers advise you to book this tour. You'll learn plenty about Venice's history – especially the Jewish Ghetto – all while exploring the city away from the busy tourist attractions. Tour-takers also appreciate the personal touches guides add to the tours, such as telling stories about their own life in Venice.

Tours are private, so you have your choice of departure times and days. Ticket fees will vary depending on the number of participants in your tour. ShowMe Venice offers a number of other tours both on land and in the canals via a boat.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Venice Hotels
• The Best Hotels in Italy
• The Best Places to Visit in Italy
• The Best Beaches in Italy
• The Best International Travel Insurance

Tags: Tours , Travel , Vacations , Europe Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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A First-Time Visitor’s Guide to Venice

Home > Blog > A First-Time Visitor’s Guide to Venice

Nestled in the northeastern part of Italy, Venice is a city like no other. Known for its enchanting canals, rich history, and exquisite architecture, this floating city has captivated the hearts of travelers for centuries. If you’re planning your first trip to Venice, this Visitor’s Guide to Venice will help you navigate its charming streets, understand its unique culture, and make the most of your time in this extraordinary destination.

Getting There

Most visitors arrive in Venice through Marco Polo Airport, which is about 13 km from the city center. From the airport, you have several options to reach Venice:

• Water Taxi: The most scenic but also the most expensive option. A private water taxi will take you directly to your hotel or chosen destination, offering a unique first impression of Venice.

• Alilaguna Water Bus: A more affordable option, with several lines that connect the airport to key points in Venice. It’s a slower journey but offers beautiful views.

• Bus: Buses to Piazzale Roma, the main bus terminal, are the cheapest option and take about 20 minutes. From there, you can walk or take a vaporetto (public water bus) to your final destination.

Where to Stay

Choosing the right area to stay in Venice is crucial to your experience:

• San Marco: The heart of Venice and home to the famous St. Mark’s Square. This area is ideal if you want to be close to major attractions, but it can be crowded and expensive.

• Cannaregio: A quieter neighborhood with a local feel. It’s less touristy, making it perfect for those who want to experience a more authentic side of Venice.

• Dorsoduro: Known for its art scene, this area is home to the Peggy Guggenheim Collection and the Gallerie dell’Accademia. It’s a vibrant area with a mix of students, artists, and locals.

• Giudecca: Located across the canal from the main islands, Giudecca offers a peaceful escape from the crowds. It provides stunning views of Venice and has a more laid-back vibe.

Must-See Attractions

Venice is full of iconic sights , and no visit would be complete without exploring the following:

• St. Mark’s Basilica: A masterpiece of Byzantine architecture with stunning mosaics and intricate designs. Be sure to climb up to the terrace for a panoramic view of St. Mark’s Square.
• Doge’s Palace: A symbol of Venice’s political and cultural history, this Gothic palace offers a glimpse into the opulence of the Venetian Republic. 
• Don’t miss the Bridge of Sighs, which connects the palace to the old prisons.
• Rialto Bridge: The oldest and most famous bridge across the Grand Canal. It’s a great spot for photos and offers a variety of shops and markets nearby.
• The Grand Canal: The main artery of Venice, lined with magnificent palaces and bustling with gondolas and vaporettos. A boat ride along the Grand Canal is a must to fully appreciate Venice’s unique beauty.

Unique Experiences

Beyond the main attractions, Venice offers a variety of unique experiences :

• Gondola Ride: Though often considered a tourist cliché, a gondola ride offers a unique perspective of the city, especially if you venture into the quieter, less crowded canals.
• Exploring the Islands: Take a vaporetto to visit the nearby islands of Murano, famous for its glass-making, and Burano, known for its brightly colored houses and lace-making traditions.
• Cicchetti Crawl: Venice’s answer to tapas, cicchetti are small plates served in local bars (bacari). Do as the Venetians do and hop from one bacaro to another, sampling different dishes and enjoying a glass of wine or spritz. A food tour is another unique way to learn about Venice!

Getting Around

Venice is a pedestrian city, and walking is the best way to explore its labyrinthine streets and canals. However, you’ll likely also use the vaporetto, Venice’s public water bus system, which connects all the major points in the city. Purchase a multi-day pass if you plan to use it frequently. Gondolas are primarily for sightseeing, while traghetti (gondola ferries) provide a more economical way to cross the Grand Canal at certain points.

Tips for First-Time Visitors

• Avoid Peak Hours: Major attractions like St. Mark’s Basilica and the Rialto Bridge can get incredibly crowded. Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the biggest crowds.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: Venice is a city best explored on foot, and the cobblestone streets can be challenging. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking.
• Stay Hydrated: It can get quite hot in Venice, especially in summer. Carry a water bottle and refill it at one of the many public fountains.
• Embrace Getting Lost: Part of Venice’s charm is its maze-like streets and alleys. Don’t be afraid to wander and explore without a set destination. You’ll often find hidden gems away from the main tourist areas.
• Respect Local Customs: Venice is a city with deep-rooted traditions. Be mindful of noise levels, especially in residential areas, and dress modestly when visiting churches.

What to Pack

• Comfortable Walking Shoes: Essential for navigating the cobblestone streets and numerous bridges.
• Waterproof Jacket or Umbrella: Venice’s weather can be unpredictable, and you may encounter rain or acqua alta (high water) depending on the season.
• Travel Adapter: Italy uses the standard European plug type, so make sure to bring a suitable adapter.
• A private guide, guidebook or Map: While getting lost in Venice is part of the fun, having a local guide, map or guidebook will help you navigate,  when needed.

A Final Word on Venice

Our certified guides will introduce you to Venice in a comfortable and enjoyable way that will give you the confidence to explore on your own. Our guided tours offer skip the line entrance to many of Venice’s most popular sites. We customize your experience to match your likes and budgets. Don’t see something you are looking for? Just submit your request and our experienced staff will reply with a customized sightseeing tour just for you.

Venice is a city that leaves a lasting impression. Its unique beauty, history, and charm offer a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you’re gliding down the Grand Canal, savoring a plate of fresh seafood, or simply enjoying a quiet moment in a hidden piazza, Venice is sure to captivate your heart. Remember to slow down, soak in the atmosphere, and enjoy every moment of your time in this magical city. Buon viaggio!

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12 incredible day trips from Venice

May 15, 2023 • 16 min read

Escape the clamor of Venice on a day trip © Andrea Comi / Getty Images

Venice is one of the world’s greatest cities – a floating work of art, an open-air museum, and a place that everyone wants to visit at least once in their lifetime.

But what makes it great also makes it crowded...and then some. This fragile city is the poster child for overtourism and not only is it unpleasant to be part of that, but a whistle-stop tour of the sights makes you part of the problem. Our advice? Stay longer. A week is a decent amount of time to get a feel for the real Venice, beyond the crowds, and to take a couple of day trips beyond the canals.

The Italian railway system is excellent and in this part of the country, there are regular high-speed trains that can whisk you to another world in less than half an hour. Whether you’re looking for somewhere close by or fancy a day out in another region or even in the mountains, here are some of the best places to go.

1. See world-changing art in Padova

Travel time: 26 minutes by train

If it wasn’t so close to Venice, Padova (or Padua) would be one of northern Italy’s most feted cities. As it is, not many tourists make it to the place that changed art history – yet it’s one of the easiest day trips from Venice by train. Here, in the Cappella degli Scrovegni – the chapel of the Scrovegni banking family, which now sits in a little park, just 10 minutes’ walk from the train station – Giotto spent two years from 1303 to 1305, frescoing it from top to bottom. What he produced shattered medieval artistic conventions, introducing perspective and humanizing his figures, instead of keeping them stiff and sculptural. If his Nativity and Flight to Egypt scenes are familiar, that’s because they make regular appearances on Christmas cards around the globe.

Other sights include the colossal Basilica di Santa'Antonio – where the remains of St. Anthony of Padua are kept – and Prato della Valle , a huge square (said to be Europe’s largest) where grand statues of local luminaries stand guard over a moated island (join the locals and buy a pizza at nearby Pizzeria Orsucci, going strong since 1922, and eat it in the square). Don’t miss Piazza delle Erbe, where there’s still a busy food market, both inside and out. Looking for souvenirs? La Bottega del Pane is a pantry of exceptional local foods.

How to get to Padova from Venice:  The easiest way to get there is by train. Fast trains can take as little as 26 minutes, and slower (cheaper) regional trains can take double that time.

2. Pay homage to Romeo and Juliet in Verona

Travel time: 72 minutes by train

In fair Verona , where we set our scene, little has changed since the 16th century, when Shakespeare set Romeo and Juliet here. The Piazza delle Erbe still hosts a lively market beneath its frescoed palazzos; the Adige river still loops around the elegant center; and the Giardino Giusti’s impeccably laid out garden hasn’t undergone anything more radical than a trim in 500 years. Juliet may not have existed in real life but her spirit lives on in Verona, where " Juliet’s House " – complete with balcony, of course – lures visitors, and a bronze statue is said to bring love to those who rub its breast (nobody could accuse Italy of being politically correct).

Verona may be known as a romantic getaway, but its real attraction is its Roman amphitheater, the Verona Arena , constructed from rosy-pink stone from a local quarry. Back in the day it put on gladiator battles; today, it’s rather more sophisticated, hosting an annual opera festival that’s one of Italy’s iconic summer events.

How to get to Verona from Venice:  The train is the fastest and easiest way to get there. There are fast trains (the Milan-Venice route stops at Verona) or slower, cheaper regional ones. The journey ranges between 72 minutes and nearly two and a half hours.

3. See bombastic Renaissance architecture in Vicenza

Travel time: 44 minutes by train

Just as Padova is overshadowed by Venice, Vicenza is the often overlooked sibling of nearby Verona. It wasn’t like this 500 years ago, when the local dignitaries were building palazzos, each grander than the last along what was the Roman decumanus (main drag) and is now called Corso Palladio, after Renaissance starchitect and adopted vicentino , Andrea Palladio.

Today, you can still walk along the street, just as they did – the only thing that’s changed is that it’s now pedestrianized and the “most elegant street in Europe,” according to 19th-century historian Cesare Cantù. The jewel in Vicenza’s crown, though, is the Teatro Olimpico – a jaw-dropping theatre by Palladio, its interior crafted entirely from wood, stucco and plaster to aid the acoustics. Its trompe l’oeil stage set is the oldest in the world. If you have a car, it’s worth driving around the countryside, which is littered with sumptuous villas also designed by Palladio – La Rotonda is one of the finest.

How to get to Vicenza from Venice:  Fast trains from Venice are quick (from 44 minutes) and easy, or it’s a 50-minute drive.

4. Hit the water at Lake Garda

Travel time: 93 minutes by train

Yes, you can do a day trip from Venice to Lake Garda – in fact, Italy’s largest lake makes for a fun day trip on public transport. Take the train to Desenzano , from where the (water) world is your oyster. Ferries zigzag across the lake – top stops include Lazise, a picture-perfect village on the crystal clear water; Gargnano, where you’ll find Limonaia La Malora, one of the only remaining lemon groves which Garda used to be famous for; and Limone sul Garda, where there’s a footpath cantilevered over the water on the outskirts of town.

At Sirmione, a peninsula thrusting out into the lake from the southern shore, there are the remains of a Roman villa, the Grotte di Catullo , while on a hill above Gardone Riviera is the Vittoriale , the former home of beloved Italian writer Gabriele D’Annunzio. The views from the rambling grounds (which include a warship dug into the hill) are spectacular. It’s a great family day trip but you may want to extend that into an overnight or two – it’s the perfect destination to combine with Venice.

How to get to Lake Garda from Venice:  To do it all by public transport, you can take the train to Desenzano, from where ferries depart for towns and villages around the lake. Otherwise, you can drive from Venice, rent a car at Desenzano or, if you’re sticking to the east side of the lake, Verona.

5. See a Venice without tourists at Chioggia

Travel time: 75 minutes by ferry and bus

Perched at the southern end of the Venice lagoon, Chioggia is close to Venice on a map, but getting there by road is tortuous. That’s why you should visit during summer, when one of Europe’s most beautiful public transport routes is running: the 11, which takes the form of a bus all the way along the Lido island, then transfers to a ferry across to Pellestrina, continues the length of this toothpick-thin island separating the lagoon from the Adriatic, before dropping you off for a final ferry crossing to Chioggia.

Often described as a mini Venice, Chioggia certainly shares a lot with La Serenissima – a settlement clumped over islands, linked by bridges – but where Venice has an elegant feel of decay, Chioggia is a living, working town. Instead of tourist gondolas, you’ll see fishing boats lined along the canals, and there are even cars driving along the streets. Don’t miss the church of San Domenico, where a painting of St. Paul by Renaissance artist Carpaccio sits in the dark, alongside votive paintings by fishermen. It’s a brilliantly atmospheric yet cheap day trip from Venice.

How to get to Chioggia from Venice:  Take a vaporetto from the city to the Lido, where the number 11 bus route whisks you eastwards, transfers to a ferry to Pellestrina, continues to the end of the island, and then drops you off at the ferry for Chioggia. Note that this route is only active in summer. Otherwise, it’s about an hour’s drive (but on frustratingly slow roads) south of Venice.

6. Soak up the cross-cultural history of Trieste

Travel time: One hour 50 minutes by car

It takes a while to get to Trieste – just over two hours by train, or a quicker (but stressful) drive – but it’s absolutely worth it. Reward an early start with a capo in b – a micro-sized cappuccino, served in an espresso glass. This used to be part of the Austro-Hungarian empire, so the coffee scene is more Vienna than Venice, here. Instead of downing an espresso at the bar, people sit down with a newspaper to savour their break. Caffe degli Specchi is the place to go – it sits on Piazza Unità d’Italia , one of Italy’s most spectacular squares, with frothy Habsburg-era buildings on three sides, and the sparkling Gulf of Trieste on the fourth.

Wander the old city – home to Roman ruins and the 15 th -century Castello di San Giusto , which has spectacular views over the water – then head northwest from the center to Miramare , a fairytale castle of gleaming white stone, cantilevered over the water. On the way back into town, take a dip; the sidewalk doubles as a sun terrace, where the Triestini lay their towels, sunbathe, and hop in the calm waters of the Gulf to cool off.

How to get to Trieste from Venice:  It’s quickest to drive, at around 1 hour 50 minutes, but the road’s a busy autostrada  with tolls. Better to take the slower but scenic train, which weaves around the lagoons at the very northern tip of the Adriatic Sea.

7. Travel back in time to mysterious Ferrara

Travel time: About one hour by train

Often mist-swirled and always mysterious, Ferrara is a time machine back to the Renaissance period. The Castello Estense , the ominous brick castle of the Este dynasty, dominates the city – today you can go for a boat ride in the moat that once separated the family from their citizens and mooch through the castle which, 500-odd years ago, was one of Italy’s cultural capitals. Fancy a taste of their lifestyle? Much of Ferrara’s traditional food comes from the Este family’s Renaissance cookbook – try pasticcio, a sweet-pastry pie filled with macaroni cheese, meat ragù and bechamel sauce, and salama da sugo, a spicy kind of sausage, served with mash and said to be Lucrezia Borgia’s favorite food. Both are acquired tastes, but a fascinating glimpse into how they ate hundreds of years ago.

Ferrara’s Palazzo dei Diamanti , an exhibition space in a 15 th -century palace whose façade is studded with diamond-shaped stones, reopened in 2023 after two years of closure. It was originally damaged in the 2012 earthquake, along with much of the city. Check out its website for what’s on during your visit – its exhibitions are usually top notch and well worth the trip.

Until the Second World War, Ferrara had a renowned Jewish community; this was the setting for The Garden of the Finzi-Continis , by Giorgio Bassani, and you can still wander the narrow streets of what used to be the Jewish quarter. Learn the history of the community – both here and more widely in Italy – at the exceptional MEIS , or National Museum of Italian Judaism and the Shoah.

How to get to Ferrara from Venice:  It’s easiest to go by rail. High-speed trains take just over an hour, while regional ones are around 90 minutes. Otherwise, it’s an easy 75-minute drive along the autostrada, but it’s a toll road and city center parking is expensive.

8. Eat some of Italy’s best food in Bologna

Where to go from Venice by train? Further than you think. By high-speed rail, it’s easy to turn Italy’s culinary capital into a daytrip. Step off the Frecciarossa (“red arrow” train) into La Rossa (“the red” – one of Bologna’s nicknames, along with “the learned” and “the fat”), for a day of shameless indulgence.

Wander the streets of the Quadrilatero  (home to food stalls since the medieval period), take a pasta-making class (we like the offerings at Salumeria Bruno e Franco ), and end with an aperitivo on Piazza Maggiore, Bologna’s main square, where a hulking naked statue-fountain of Neptune dominates one side, and the Basilica di San Petronio , a barn-like church, dominates the other. Any of the restaurants will do you proud – must-try dishes are tagliatelle al ragù, tortellini in brodo (tiny pasta pockets filled with a meaty, cheesy stuffing and swimming in broth), and cotoletta alla petroniana, or alla bolognese – a veal cutlet swathed in prosciutto, layered with cheese, then baked to oozing perfection.

How to get to Bologna from Venice:  It’s easiest by train – high-speed Frecciarossa trains can whisk you there in just over an hour and a half. It’s roughly the same by car, though you should add autostrada tolls and the road is quite monotonous.

9. Climb into the Dolomites at Cortina d’Ampezzo

Travel time: Two hours by car

Within a two-hour drive from Venice, you can be in the heart of the Dolomites . Head due north, and within an hour you’ll be winding up through mountain passes towards Pieve di Cadore, the birthplace of Renaissance painter Titian (his birthplace is now a museum, and there are paintings by his artist family in the local church). From there, fork west, hugging the mountainsides, to Cortina d’Ampezzo .

This is one of Italy’s chi-chiest ski resorts, but there’s plenty to do year round, from hiking to eating (try the Michelin-starred SanBrite , whose owners source all their ingredients locally). This is part of the Ladin community, an ancient population of the mountains that have their own language and traditions. Learn about the Ladins, and the Regole – essentially a collection of centuries-standing families who "govern" the town – at the Ethnographic Museum, housed in an old sawmill.

How to get to Cortina d’Ampezzo from Venice:  This is definitely one to drive. The two hours by car (or 80 minutes from Venice Marco Polo airport) changes to a minimum of five and a half by public transport and you’ll have to change at least twice.

10. Wallow in volcanic mud in the Euganean Hills

Travel time: 45 minutes by car or train

The wider region around Venice, Veneto , tends to be pretty flat except where the landscape rears up towards the Dolomites. This is one of the exceptions – a group of cone-like volcanic hills, 81 of them to be precise, rearing up from the plains south of Padova.

Of course, their volcanic origin should give you a hint that Italy’s famous thermal spas will be nearby. The small, neighboring towns of Montegrotto and Abano are home to various springs and spas that have been going since Roman times. Today, along with other nearby towns Galzignano, Battaglia and Teolo, they’re said to form the oldest, and largest, thermal spa in Europe, with 240 thermal pools between them. One of our favorites is the Abano Ritz Hotel Terme – family- and female-owned for three generations. The thermal mud they use in balneotherapy treatments comes from right beside the hotel and the pools in their 6,000-square-meter waterpark stay a constant 33 degrees (91.4F), thanks to the thermal waters that spent 25 years and 100km (62 miles) underground before gushing out here.

Don’t spend all your time wallowing, though – the whole area is designated the Euganean Hills Regional Park, and there are trails for hiking, biking and horse-riding, as well as breathtaking views from behind the wheel if you prefer a road trip. Visit one of the sprawling Renaissance country villas on offer (try Villa Barbarigo , known as the hills’ answer to Versailles, near Galzignano). Can’t go to Italy without seeing some Roman remains? You’ll find bits of 2000-year-old spas at Montegrotto and Abano.

How to get to the Euganean Hills from Venice:  Trains take between 37 minutes and an hour to reach the Terme Euganee-Abano-Montegrotto station, which serves the spa towns. If you want to explore the park, though, you’ll need a car – it’s about a 45-minute drive from Venice.

11. Wind back the centuries at Aquileia

Travel time: 80 minutes by car

Across the border in Friuli Venezia Giulia and en route to Trieste is this fascinating time capsule, where the history of the northern Adriatic is layered like a lasagne. Now a Unesco World Heritage site, this was one of the richest cities of the early Roman Empire before it was destroyed by the Huns in the fifth century CE. There’s not a lot from that era visible, since most of it lies unexcavated below fields, although the Roman river port is fascinating in its detail.

What you’re really going for is the later history – the basilica , dating back to the fourth century and rebuilt in the medieval period after an earthquake. The original mosaic floor was saved from damage and today it’s an astonishing, colorful carpet of early Christian artwork, with astonishingly vivid depictions of Bible stories like the Good Shepherd and Jonah and the whale, in between cameos of rich Roman locals, and lagoon wildlife.

How to get to Aquileia from Venice:  The easiest way to get there is by car; it’s about an hour and 20 minutes’ drive from Venice, and about two thirds of the way to Trieste. By public transport you’ll need to take a train to Cervignano-Aquileia-Grado and then swap to a bus – the journey takes just over two hours.

12. Visit Venice’s inland empire at Treviso

Travel time: 31 minutes by train

These days, Treviso is best known for its airport, home to budget airlines galore, but there’s nothing low-end about the town itself. Elegant, petite and pretty, Treviso is still a place for residents rather than tourists, and a walk around its calm centro storico is like one big exhale if you’ve come from crowded Venice. Once part of the Stato da Tera, Venice’s historic inland empire, it’s curiously similar to La Serenissima – all porticoes, art-filled churches and elegant palazzos – only without canals taking center stage (though there are a few – the Canale dei Buranelli, sweeping through the center, is the prettiest).

Don’t miss the Fontana delle Tette , a fountain in the shape of a naked woman which used to spout wine from her breasts – white from one, and red from the other – every time a new mayor was sworn in. The original has been moved to the Palazzo dei Trecento, the 13th-century castle-like building dominating the Piazza dei Signori but there’s a replica in situ just off Calmaggiore, the main street dating back to Roman times. The church of San Nicolò is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture, which you won’t find much in Venice.

How to get to Treviso from Venice: Trains run every half hour or so, and take 30-40 minutes to Treviso Centrale. Otherwise, it’s a simple, if not particularly scenic, 40-minute drive from Piazzale Roma.

This article was first published Mar 18, 2019 and updated May 15, 2023.

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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.

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Best Time To Visit Venice

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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:

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

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!

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

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

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!

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.

Want to save money on accommodation?

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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!

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.

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!

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.

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!

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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These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

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!

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!

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!

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.

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 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

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.

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.

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).

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!

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!

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.

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

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

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. And, if you want to stay the night (maybe pursue your own romance?) I’ve got the Verona hostel for you!

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

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

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

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!

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!

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How to See Venice in a Day: The Ultimate Guide

Venice: a city of canals, bridges, and stunning architecture. It's a place that captures the imagination and begs to be explored. But what if you only have one day to experience its magic? Don't worry – it's totally doable! With a little planning and this guide, you can make the most of your whirlwind visit and leave with unforgettable memories.

Arriving in Venice and Navigating the Waterways

Your Venetian adventure begins the moment you step off the train or out of the airport. Since Venice is built on a lagoon, your main mode of transport will be the vaporetto (water bus).

• From Marco Polo Airport (VCE): Hop on the Alilaguna water bus or a private water taxi to reach Venice's main island.
• From the Train Station (Venezia Santa Lucia): You'll be greeted by canals right outside! Purchase a vaporetto pass for easy hopping on and off throughout the day.

Pro Tip: A 24-hour vaporetto pass is a cost-effective way to explore if you plan on using it multiple times.

A Morning of Iconic Landmarks

Start your day bright and early in the heart of Venice:

• St. Mark's Square: Grab a cappuccino (even if it's a bit pricey!) at the historic Caffè Florian and soak in the grandeur of the square. Imagine the orchestra playing as you watch pigeons flutter by.
• St. Mark's Basilica: This Byzantine masterpiece is a must-see. Marvel at the intricate mosaics and the Pala d'Oro, a stunning golden altarpiece.
• Doge's Palace: Step back in time to the Venetian Republic as you explore the opulent chambers and cross the Bridge of Sighs.

Insider Tip: Book skip-the-line tickets online to avoid long queues, especially during peak season.

A Taste of Venice: Rialto Market and Chicchetti

By lunchtime, head to the Rialto neighborhood:

• Rialto Bridge: Take in the views from this iconic bridge, the oldest of the four spanning the Grand Canal.
• Rialto Market: Immerse yourself in the sights and smells of fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies.
• Chicchetti Crawl: Indulge in Venice's answer to tapas – small, flavorful bites served at bacari (wine bars).

Local Recommendation: Cantina Do Spade is a classic spot for delicious chicchetti and a refreshing glass of ombra (local wine).

An Afternoon of Art and Hidden Gems

Venice is an art lover's paradise. Here are a couple of gems to discover:

• Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari: Admire Titian's masterpiece, the Assumption of the Virgin, and Donatello's sculpture of St. John the Baptist.
• Scuola Grande di San Rocco: Be mesmerized by Tintoretto's dramatic and powerful paintings that adorn the walls of this former charitable confraternity.

Don't Miss: Get lost in the charming backstreets and discover hidden squares, bridges, and artisan workshops.

A Gondola Ride into the Sunset

No trip to Venice is complete without a gondola ride. As the day winds down, treat yourself to this quintessential Venetian experience:

• Glide Through the Canals: Let the gondolier guide you through narrow waterways, under bridges, and past charming palazzos.
• Romantic Ambiance: Enjoy the tranquility of the canals as the sun sets, casting a golden glow over the city.

Pro Tip: Negotiate the price with the gondolier beforehand, and consider sharing a ride to split the cost.

Evening Delights: Dinner and Drinks

As night falls, savor the flavors of Venetian cuisine:

• Seafood Feast: Indulge in fresh seafood dishes at one of the many restaurants overlooking the canals.
• Osteria Experience: Opt for a cozy osteria for a taste of local specialties and regional wines.

Recommendation: For a special occasion, try Ristorante Antico Gatoleto or Enoteca Osteria San Marco.

Venice in a Day: A Memory to Cherish

Even though your time in Venice is short, you've experienced the best it has to offer. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, from delicious food to romantic gondola rides, you've created memories that will last a lifetime. As you bid farewell to this magical city, you'll carry a piece of its charm and beauty with you.

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Venice Revealed

13 of the Best Day Trips from Venice: Go Beyond the Lagoon

This post may contain affiliate links. This means that if you book a tour or hotel through my link I earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. By supporting me through these links, you’re helping me keep this site awesome and deliver top-notch content to you. Your support means the world to me, and I’m incredibly grateful for it!

Venice, the city of canals, is undoubtedly one of the most enchanting places on earth. 

But the magic of the Veneto region extends far beyond its capital. From the shimmering waters of Lake Garda to the medieval charm of Verona, Northern Italy is a treasure trove of diverse landscapes, rich history, and mouthwatering cuisine. 

For those who wish to delve deeper into the travel experience, embarking on a day trip from Venice opens up a world of possibilities. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or a foodie , there’s a destination waiting to captivate your senses. 

If you are staying for more than a couple of days , a day trip from Venice is a great idea. So, let’s set sail from the Grand Canal and discover the best day trips from Venice.

1 – The Lido (Venice Lagoon)

Just a short boat ride away from the bustling heart of Venice lies the serene island of Lido di Venezia . Known for its tranquil beaches and Art Nouveau architecture, Lido offers a refreshing contrast to the crowded streets and canals of Venice. This thin strip of land, stretching between the Adriatic Sea and the Venetian Lagoon, is one of the best day trips from Venice for those seeking a blend of relaxation and cultural exploration.

Attractions

Lido is famous for its sandy beaches , which provide a perfect setting for a beach day. The island is also home to the Venice Film Festival, which takes place at the historic Palazzo del Cinema every September. For architecture enthusiasts, a stroll around the island reveals a collection of beautiful villas and hotels showcasing the elegant Liberty style, Italy’s version of Art Nouveau. The Santa Maria Elisabetta area, with its charming shops and cafes, offers a glimpse into the everyday life of the locals.

Of course, the best reason to go to the Lido is to hit the beach. The most popular one, the Alberoni , is a protected nature reserve and feels very far away from the crowds of Venice. 

Getting There and Best Time to Visit

Reaching Lido from Venice is a pleasant ride on a vaporetto (water bus) that takes about half an hour. The best time to visit Lido is during the summer months when you can fully enjoy the beaches. However, if you wish to avoid the crowds, spring and early autumn are also lovely times to explore the island.

Check out the full article on the best times to visit Venice!

Food and Drink Experiences

Lido offers a variety of dining options where you can savor Venetian cuisine. Seafood is a staple here, with local restaurants serving fresh fish and shellfish dishes. For a unique food experience, try the traditional Venetian dish, sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines). Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy a glass of Prosecco, the famous sparkling wine from the Veneto region.

2 – Murano and Burano (Venice Lagoon)

A visit to Venice would not be complete without a day trip to the enchanting Venetian lagoon islands of Murano and Burano. These islands are just a short boat ride away from Venice and offer a unique glimpse into the region’s rich artisanal heritage.

Murano is world-renowned for its long-standing tradition of glassmaking. The island is dotted with glass factories, many of which offer a glass blowing demonstration. Visitors can watch master glassblowers at work, transforming molten glass into intricate sculptures, chandeliers, and jewelry. The Glass Museum (Museo del Vetro) is a must-visit, showcasing the history of glassmaking and stunning examples of Murano glass.

Read my full guide on the things to do in Murano!

Burano, on the other hand, is famous for its lace making and brightly colored houses. The island’s lace is known for its exquisite quality and intricate designs. The Lace Museum (Museo del Merletto) provides fascinating insights into the island’s lace-making history. Walking around Burano, you’ll be charmed by the vibrant houses that line its canals, each painted a different color.

Getting There, Best Time to Visit, and Local Customs

Both Murano and Burano are easily accessible day trips from Venice by vaporetto . The best time to visit these islands is in the spring and fall when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are smaller.

In terms of local customs, it’s important to respect the privacy of the residents. While the colorful houses of Burano are incredibly photogenic, remember that they are people’s homes. Always be respectful when taking photos.

Both islands offer delightful food and drink experiences. In Murano, be sure to try a ‘bussolà’, a traditional Venetian biscuit that’s perfect with a cup of coffee . In Burano, don’t miss the chance to taste the island’s famous ‘Bussolà Buranello’, a donut-shaped cookie that’s a local favorite. Seafood lovers will also enjoy the fresh fish and shellfish dishes served in the islands’ restaurants. Pair your meal with a glass of Veneto’s famous Prosecco for a truly Venetian dining experience.

3 – Sant’erasmo (Venice Lagoon)

Sant’erasmo, often referred to as the “Garden of Venice,” is a tranquil island in the Venetian Lagoon. It’s a fantastic day trip for those seeking a break from the bustling city life of Venice. The lagoon island is renowned for its lush landscapes, vineyards, and orchards, producing a variety of fruits and vegetables, including the famous Sant’erasmo artichokes. 

The island also offers beautiful views of the lagoon and Venice in the distance.

How to Get There, Best Time to Visit, and What to Do

Getting to Sant’erasmo is a pleasant ride on the vaporetto (water bus) from Venice, taking about half an hour. The best time to visit is during the spring and summer months when the island’s vegetation is in full bloom. Once there, you can rent bikes to explore the island’s natural beauty, visit the Torre Massimiliana, a historic tower now converted into a cultural center, or simply enjoy a leisurely walk along the beach.

Unique Food and Drink Experiences in Sant’erasmo

Sant’erasmo offers a unique culinary experience, thanks to its agricultural richness. Don’t miss the chance to taste the island’s renowned artichokes, usually served fresh in local dishes. The island also produces its own wine, so a wine tasting is a must-do for wine lovers.

Accommodation Options for Extended Stays

While Sant’erasmo is typically visited as a day trip from Venice, those wishing to stay longer can find accommodation options on the island. There are a few charming bed and breakfasts that offer a peaceful retreat amidst the island’s natural beauty. 

Staying on the island provides a unique opportunity to experience the everyday life of the locals in this serene part of the Venetian Lagoon.

Remember to always check the availability and book in advance, especially during the peak tourist season.

4 – Bologna (Emilia Romagna)

Bologna, the capital of the Emilia Romagna region, is a city that’s rich in history and culture. Known as “La Dotta” (The Learned), “La Grassa” (The Fat), and “La Rossa” (The Red), Bologna is a city of many faces. It’s home to the oldest university in the world, the University of Bologna, which was founded in 1088 and has a student population that brings a youthful energy to the city.

Major Sites

Bologna is renowned for its beautiful and historic architecture. The Piazza Maggiore is a sprawling square that’s surrounded by some of the city’s most important buildings, including the Basilica of San Petronio, one of the largest churches in the world, and the Palazzo del Podesta, a historic city hall. 

The city is also famous for its porticoes, covered walkways that line the streets of the city center, and the Two Towers, the Asinelli and the Garisenda, which are the city’s main symbols.

The Journey from Venice

Bologna is conveniently located and is easily accessible from Venice. The journey by train takes about an hour and a half, making it a feasible day trip. The city’s main train station is located about 20 minutes’ walk from the Piazza Maggiore, and the route will take you past many of the city’s beautiful old buildings and impressive architecture.

Bologna is often considered the culinary capital of Italy , and for good reason. The city is the birthplace of many famous Italian dishes, such as tortellini, lasagna, and ragu (the meat sauce that’s often referred to as Bolognese sauce). The city is also known for its cured meats, cheeses, and wines. 

When in Bologna, be sure to visit one of the city’s many trattorias to experience authentic Bolognese cuisine.

5 – Bassano del Grappa (Veneto)

Nestled in a picturesque setting with the foothills of the Alps rising behind it and the Brenta River flowing through it, Bassano del Grappa is a charming city that makes for a fantastic day trip from Venice. The city boasts a rich history, with architectural wonders dating back to the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. It is also famed for its production of the potent grappa spirit.

The heart of life in Bassano del Grappa is centered around Piazza Garibaldi and Piazza della Liberta. However, the city’s most popular attraction is the beautiful Ponte degli Alpini , a wooden bridge offering stunning views of the river and the city. It’s an ideal spot for capturing memorable photos.

Journey from Venice

Bassano del Grappa is located to the northwest of Venice and is easily accessible by public transport. A direct train line connects the two cities, with trains departing frequently. The journey takes approximately an hour and 15 minutes, and once you arrive, the scenic city center is just a short stroll away.

For a more immersive experience, consider taking a guided tour. This is a great way to get a feel for the lovely Venetian hill towns. With stops at Bassano del Grappa, Asolo, and Marostica included, alongside prosecco tasting at a local vineyard and a visit to a Palladian villa, it promises to be an action-packed day out.

Unique Food and Drink Experiences

Bassano del Grappa is renowned for its production of grappa , a strong Italian spirit. A visit to Bassano del Grappa would be incomplete without a tasting session. The city also offers a variety of local dishes that are worth trying, such as “bigoli”, a type of pasta often served with duck ragu.

6 – Chioggia (Veneto)

Chioggia, often referred to as “Little Venice,” is a charming town located in the Veneto region, about an hour away from Venice. This medieval town is nestled on two islands, separated by the ‘Channel Vena,’ and is known for its vibrant fishing and port activities. It’s a fantastic day trip from Venice, offering a glimpse into the everyday life of a traditional Italian fishing town.

Chioggia is a treasure trove of historical and cultural attractions. Start your visit at the arcaded Piazzetta Vigo, where you’ll find the Vigo Bridge and a high column with the Lion of Saint Mark. 

Not far from here is the 14th-century Palace of the Granaio Pubblico, a neo-gothic style building with beautiful windows with pointed arches. Behind the palace is the fish market, a Chioggia landmark, where you can find fresh fish of various species.

The town is also home to several beautiful churches, including the Church of Saint Andrew with its 12th-century bell tower, the Holy Trinity Church with important paintings by Palma il Giovane and Andrea Vicentino, and the 13th-century Church of Saint Dominic which includes a 16th-century painting by Vittore Carpaccio.

How to Get There and Best Time to Visit

Chioggia is easily accessible by public transport from Venice. You can take a direct train line from Venice’s Santa Lucia train station to Chioggia. The journey takes about an hour and a half. The best time to visit Chioggia is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the town is less crowded.

Chioggia offers a wide range of local specialities based on seafood. Try the ‘granseole’ (crab meat with olive oil, lemon, and spices), ‘bigoli in salsa’ (spaghetti with garlic sauce, oil, onion, parsley, and anchovy fillets), and the so-called ‘black cuttlefish’ (squid cut and boiled in a sauté onion, garlic, white wine, and tomatoes). Don’t miss the ‘Festival of salt-water fish’ that takes place during the first ten days of July, where you can enjoy local products and a few glasses of Merlot, Cabernet, Prosecco, and Soave.

7 – Verona (Veneto)

Verona, famously known as the setting for Shakespeare’s “ Romeo and Juliet ,” is a city in the Veneto region of Italy that is rich in history and culture. It’s a medieval city that effortlessly combines its historical past with a vibrant present. I highly recommend a Verona day trip as it is one of my favorite cities in Northern Italy. 

Verona is home to a number of significant historical sites. The Roman Arena, an enormous amphitheater that dates back to the 1st century AD, is one of the best-preserved of its kind. Despite its age, the Arena is still in use today, hosting concerts and operas. 

The city is also home to the Ponte Scaligero, a beautiful bridge that was rebuilt after World War II.

The city’s most famous site is Juliet’s House, which draws visitors from around the world who wish to stand on the famous balcony and declare their love. The city is also home to numerous beautiful churches and piazzas, including the ornate San Zeno Maggiore Church and the bustling Piazza delle Erbe.

Verona is conveniently located just over an hour’s high speed train ride west of Venice, making it an easy day trip. Trains depart frequently from Venice Santa Lucia train station, and upon arrival in Verona, you’ll find yourself just a short walk from the city’s historic center.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Verona is in the spring (April to June) or fall (September to October) when the weather is mild and the city is less crowded with tourists. The summer months can be quite hot, and the city is often crowded with tourists.

Verona is known for its excellent cuisine and wine. The city is particularly famous for its risotto, which is often served with Amarone wine, a rich red wine that is produced in the region. Other local specialties include pastissada de caval, a horse meat stew, and pandoro, a sweet bread that is traditionally served at Christmas.

8 – Lake Garda (Lombardy/Veneto)

Lake Garda, nestled between Lombardy and Veneto, is Italy’s largest lake and a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. With its clear blue waters, charming lakeside towns, and stunning mountain backdrop, Lake Garda is a perfect day trip from Venice.

Attractions and Activities

Lake Garda is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy a variety of water sports, including sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking. For those who prefer land-based activities, the surrounding area offers excellent hiking and biking trails.

There is an elevated bike path that hugs the cliffs of the river’s edge suspended above the water. The views are incredible and it is a ride you’ll never forget. 

The blue lake is dotted with picturesque towns and villages, each with its unique charm. Desenzano del Garda, at the southern tip of the lake, is known for its lively atmosphere and beautiful beaches. Sirmione, located on a peninsula extending into the lake, is famous for its medieval castle and thermal baths.

A Lake Garda day trip would not be complete without a trip to Gardaland, Italy’s largest amusement park, which offers fun for the whole family.

Getting There and Around

Lake Garda is about a two-hour drive from Venice. There are also direct train lines from Venice to Desenzano del Garda and Peschiera del Garda, both located on the southern shore of the lake. Once you’re there, you can get around by car, bus, or ferry. 

The Lake Garda ferry service is a pleasant and convenient way to explore the different towns and attractions around the lake making it one of the most fun day trips.

The best time to visit Lake Garda is from April to October when the Northern Italy weather is warm and most attractions are open. However, the lake is beautiful all year round, and a visit in the off-season allows you to enjoy its beauty without the crowds.

Food and Drink

Lake Garda is renowned for its local cuisine, which features fresh fish from the lake and delicious wines from the surrounding vineyards. Try “trout in carpione,” a traditional dish of marinated trout, or “risotto con tinca,” a risotto with tench, a fish native to the lake. 

For wine lovers, a visit to a local winery for a tasting of the region’s famous Bardolino or Lugana wines is a must.

Accommodation

If you decide to extend your stay, Lake Garda offers a wide range of accommodation options. From luxury hotels with stunning lake views to cozy bed and breakfasts in the charming lakeside towns, there’s something to suit every taste and budget. 

For a unique experience, consider staying in a historic villa or a modern eco-friendly resort.

9 – Padua (Veneto)

Padua, or Padova as it’s known in Italy, is a charming city in the Veneto region, just a short train ride away from Venice. Known for its ancient university and rich history, Padua offers a unique blend of historic sights, vibrant student life, and modern business. It’s a city where you can wander through historic streets, admire stunning architecture, and enjoy a variety of cultural experiences.

Padua’s biggest tourist attraction is the Scrovegni Chapel (Cappella degli Scrovegni), renowned for its priceless frescoes by Giotto. The Basilica of St. Anthony of Padua, known simply as Il Santo, is another must-visit site. Beyond these two, the city is filled with numerous other historic sights, art galleries, and parks.

Padua is easily accessible from Venice by train, with the journey taking only about 20-40 minutes depending on the type of train you take. The city’s train station is located just north of the town center, making it convenient for visitors to start exploring right away.

Padua can be visited year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is mild and the city is less crowded.

Padua offers a variety of unique food and drink experiences. The city is known for its traditional Italian cuisine, with a variety of restaurants and bars offering everything from quick snacks to substantial meals. For a refreshing afternoon treat, try some high-quality ice cream from Grom on Via Roma, a new Italian institution loved by Slow Food aficionados.

10 – Vicenza (Veneto)

Nestled in the heart of the Veneto region, Vicenza is a hidden gem that’s often overlooked by tourists. Known as the “City of Gold” due to its long-standing tradition in goldsmithing, Vicenza is also famous for its unique architectural style, largely influenced by the renowned 16th-century architect Andrea Palladio. This has led to the city’s designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts.

Attractions in Vicenza

Vicenza is home to numerous grand buildings designed by Palladio and his followers. The most famous among these is the Villa La Rotunda and Teatro Olimpico, Palladio’s last work, which was completed by his son and then by Vincenzo Scamozzi. This theatre, modeled on ancient Roman theatres, boasts a curved amphitheatre, graded stepped seating, and lavish ornamentation.

Another notable landmark is the Basilica Palladiana, the town’s medieval law courts, featuring an imposing facade by Palladio. The city’s heart, Piazza dei Signori, is dominated by these two striking landmarks.

For art lovers, the Gothic Church of Santa Corona houses works by Giovanni Bellini and Paolo Veronese. And for a panoramic view of the area, a walk or bus ride uphill to the Santuario di Monte Berico is highly recommended.

Journey from Venice and Best Time to Visit

Vicenza can be reached in 45 minutes from Venice by taking one of the high speed trains; a cheaper option will take just over an hour. The city’s compact town center and attractive villas in the hills a short walk away make it a fantastic day trip from Venice. The best time to visit Vicenza is during spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is most pleasant.

Keep in mind that in August many of the shops and restaurants will be closed for a week or two. 

Unique Food and Drink Experiences in Vicenza

Vicenza offers a variety of unique food and drink experiences. The city is known for its traditional dishes like “baccalà alla vicentina” (salted cod cooked with milk, onions, and anchovies) and “bigoli” (a type of thick spaghetti usually served with duck ragu). For wine lovers, a visit to a local winery to taste the regional wines like the white Soave or the red Valpolicella is a must.

11 – Trieste (Friuli Venezia Giulia)

Trieste, the capital of the Friuli Venezia Giulia region, is a charming city located in northeastern Italy and offers one of the most unique day trips from Venice. It’s a unique blend of Italian, Slovenian, and Austrian cultures due to its location near the Slovenian border and its history as part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The city is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant café culture.

Getting There

Trieste is easily accessible from Venice by train. The journey takes about 2 hours, making it a perfect day trip destination. The city’s train station, Trieste Centrale, is conveniently located near the city center.

Things to Do

Once in Trieste, there are plenty of things to see and do. Start your visit at Piazza Unità d’Italia, one of the largest sea-facing squares in Europe. From there, you can easily reach the city’s main attractions. Visit the stunning Miramare Castle, which offers breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea. Explore the Roman Theatre, a testament to Trieste’s ancient history. 

Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the iconic Trieste Cathedral and the impressive Risiera di San Sabba, a former rice-husking factory turned concentration camp during World War II is also worth visiting.

Trieste is famous for its café culture. Make sure to visit one of the city’s historic coffee houses, such as Caffè San Marco or Caffè degli Specchi, and try a traditional Triestine coffee. For lunch or dinner, enjoy local specialties like jota (a hearty bean and sauerkraut soup), gnocchi di susine (plum dumplings), or fresh seafood dishes. Pair your meal with a glass of local Friulano wine.

Trieste is a walkable city, so comfortable shoes are a must. The city is also known for its strong winds, especially the Bora wind, so be prepared with a light jacket or windbreaker. Lastly, while Italian is the official language, you’ll also hear Slovenian and German spoken, reflecting the city’s multicultural heritage.

12 – Piran (Slovenia)

Piran, a charming town located on the Adriatic coast, is a hidden gem that makes for an unforgettable day trip from Venice. This Slovenian town is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, narrow alleys, and stunning views of the sea. Its unique appeal lies in its Venetian Gothic architecture, reminiscent of Venice itself, and its picturesque setting on a narrow peninsula.

Piran is a town where history and culture are intertwined with everyday life. The town’s main square, Tartinijev Trg, is a beautiful marble-paved area that was once the inner harbor. The square is adorned with a statue of a nattily dressed man, adding to its charm.

The Cathedral of St George, with its free-standing bell tower modeled on the campanile of San Marco in Venice, offers a panoramic view of the town and the sea. The Venetian House, a red mid-15th-century Gothic structure with tracery windows and a balcony, is another eye-catching structure in Piran.

For those interested in history, the Sergej Mašera Maritime Museum and the Mediadom Pyrhani, a multimedia, interactive museum, offer insights into Piran’s maritime history and overall historical story.

Getting to Piran from Venice involves a pleasant ferry ride across the Adriatic Sea. There are several ferry services available that offer a direct line to this beautiful city in Slovenia. The journey takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, making it a feasible day trip.

The best time to visit Piran is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the town is less crowded. Summer can be quite busy, but it’s also when the town is most vibrant.

Unique Food and Drink Experiences in Piran

Piran offers a variety of unique food and drink experiences. The town is known for its seafood restaurants, where you can enjoy fresh fish caught in the Adriatic Sea. Don’t miss out on trying the local olive oil and Piran sea salt, which are considered among the best in the world.

For wine lovers, a visit to the nearby vineyards for a wine tasting session is a must. The region is known for its Refošk and Malvazija wines.

While Piran is perfect for a day trip, it also offers a range of accommodation options for those who wish to extend their stay. From luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses, there’s something for every traveler. Some popular options include the Hotel Piran, located on the seafront, and the more budget-friendly Hostel Piran. 

Staying overnight allows you to experience the town’s enchanting atmosphere after the day-trippers have left.

13 – Prosecco Region and Prosecco Road

The Prosecco region, located in the Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia regions of Italy, is a sparkling wine lover’s paradise. The area is renowned for its production of Prosecco, a bubbly white wine that has gained international acclaim. The lovely countryside is characterized by rolling hills covered in vineyards, charming villages, and historic wineries.

The Prosecco Road, or “Strada del Prosecco,” is a scenic route that winds through the heart of the Prosecco region. 

The road stretches from Conegliano to Valdobbiadene, passing through picturesque landscapes and offering stunning views of the vineyards and the surrounding countryside. Whether you travel the route by bike or car, you’ll find numerous wineries where you can stop for a tasting and learn about the traditional methods of Prosecco production.

Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply a lover of beautiful landscapes, the Prosecco region and the Prosecco Road offers one of the best day trips from Venice. The area is easily accessible from Venice, making it one of the best Venice day trips for those looking to explore beyond the city’s canals.

Read my full guide on taking a tour of Prosecco from Venice!

The Prosecco region is about an hour’s drive from Venice. You can rent a car and drive yourself, or join a guided tour that includes transportation and wine tastings. Since this is one of the day trips from Venice in which you’ll likely do the most drinking, I highly recommend booking a driver to take you around. 

If you prefer public transportation, you can take a train from Venice to Conegliano and then a local bus to Valdobbiadene.

When to Visit

The Prosecco region can be visited year-round, but the best time to go is during the grape harvest season, from late August to October. During this time, you can witness the grape picking and wine making process first-hand. The region also hosts several wine festivals throughout the year, offering a great opportunity to sample a variety of Proseccos and meet the local producers.

Wrapping It Up

Venturing beyond the enchanting canals of Venice opens up a world of captivating day trips. From the scenic islands of Murano and Burano to the historic towns of Verona and Vicenza, each destination offers its own unique charm and experiences. 

Explore the wonders of the Venice Lagoon, indulge in delicious food and wine, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Northern Italy. Whether you’re seeking natural beauty, historic sites, or culinary delights, these day trips from Venice are sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.

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These are the must-see sights of Italy's Veneto region

From Venice's famed waterways, to small towns that produce some of the world's most beloved wines and cheeses, here's how to have a sensory journey through Italy's Veneto region.

Veneto is a region of dramatic differences spread across seven provinces in northern Italy. Ninety-three miles (150 kilometers) of sandy coastline hug the Adriatic Sea, while rolling green vineyards, medieval villages, and hiking trails decorate its interior. And then there’s its most famous counterparts: the floating capital city of   Venice   that draws travelers around the world to traverse its canals, and Verona—home to Shakespeare’s ill-fated duo, Romeo and Juliet.    

Beyond Veneto’s more well-known cities lies the plain waters and palatial villas of   Lake Garda , the mountaintop saunas and ski resorts in   The Dolomites , and the smaller provinces of Padua (Padova in Italian) and Treviso, where historic relics, museums, and watering holes abound. Here’s what not to miss in this vastly diverse region.    

Traverse Venice’s famed waterways    

Known worldwide for its intricate system of canals,   Venice   is often the starting point for any adventure through Veneto. Roughly 150 waterways connect the capital city to tiny neighboring islands, with the most famous being the Grand Canal. A popular way to familiarize yourself with the lagoon is aboard the city’s iconic, gleaming black gondola, but there are also easily accessible public water buses and private motorized taxis. Be sure to see the Grand Canal’s four impressive bridges, including the most famous, Rialto, which connects San Marco to San Polo.    

When you’re ready to move beyond central Venice, consider taking a water taxi to nearby islands like Burano, known for its intricate lacework traditions and brightly colored homes, and Sant’Erasmo, called Venice’s vegetable garden because of its fertile, green land that produces the island’s celebrated tender violet artichoke. When you’re ready to co-captain a more in-depth experience on water, consider a   tour   that provides an intimate look at the lagoons and fishing life of the region.    

Savor Veneto’s celebrated wines

As the largest wine-producing region in Italy, oenophiles and novices alike will have no issue discovering a bottle to enjoy in Veneto. The cherry-tinged Valpolicella and Amarone, delicate and slightly salty white Soave, and crisp sparkling Prosecco are all produced here.  

Red wine lovers should head to the hills of the Valpolicella wine region, located just north of Verona and stretching to the west in Lake Garda.     Some of the best Amarone in the region can be sampled at   Bertani , including tours that introduce visitors to the   historic estate, vineyards, and gravity-flow cellars. For Prosecco, make your way to   Bisol , a family-owned winery that has been producing bubbly Superiores for 21 generations, and the   Tomassi Family Estates   for the saline-forward Soaves with zesty citrus flavors that are particularly refreshing on summer days.    

In Verona, make a reservation at   Antica Bottega del Vino   for   a crash course of all the region’s wines. The line out of the door is the first sign that this is a favorite for both residents and visitors alike. Don’t miss their stellar selection from the family-owned   Allegrini —one of the of the leading wine producers in the region that also offers a number of   tours     that highlight their celebrated Valpolicella.  

Sip a spritz (or two)  

Italy’s ubiquitous spritz was born in Veneto, so it’s only right to commemorate its existence here with a tasting or two. Aperol   was first created in Padua in 1919, and the orange-red liqueur remains a mainstay in a number of bars, called 'bàcaro', alongside ‘cicchetti’, bite-sized Italian snacks. Take a spritz crawl through Padua, stopping at favorites that include Bar Nazionale,   Caffè Pedrocchi , and Bar Zanellato. Though the traditional recipe calls for three parts Prosecco, two parts of Aperol or   Campari ,   and a splash of soda water–you’ll find a number of bartenders putting their own spin on the classic–including La Yarda, which offers over 26 variations to try.  

Try a regional specialty, bigoli

When it comes to pasta in Veneto, it’s all about bigoli—a thick   spaghetti   made with buckwheat or whole wheat and sometimes eggs. Venice’s signature pasta, bigoli in salsa, include an anchovy sauce. The dish dates back to ancient times when Venice was a maritime republic heavily influenced by seafood’s availability. There are a number of restaurants to taste bigoli in salsa, including   Trattoria Alla Madonna , located near the historic Rialto Bridge, and   Osteria Al Bacco , where you might be able to snag a seat on the balcony with tiny canal view. Other traditional Venice dishes include risotto al nero di seppia (risotto cooked with cuttlefish ink) and sarde in saor (deep fried sardines preserved in a sweet and sour marinade).   Instituo Venezia   offers a number of   cooking classes   where you can learn the history and recipes of many of these dishes.      

Enjoy the great outdoors in the Dolomites  

Sports enthusiasts will find no shortage of activities in this Italian Alps haven. The Dolomites’ mountain range covers some 350,000 acres that come alive every season. In the winter, snow blanked peaks make it a playground for skiers, and in the spring, hiking trails like the 5.5-mile loop to Tre Cime di Lavaredo offer forays through flower fields and panoramic views of Laverdo’s three jagged limestone peaks. Row your way across the teal-colored waters of Lago Di Braies, or cycle through the peaceful woods and lakeside trails of the 30-mile Toblach-Cortina Path.    

Explore the Grotte di Catullo  

Located on the northernmost tip of Lake Garda’s Sirmione peninsula, the impressive ruins of the Roman villa Grotte di Catullo were built   between the end of the 1st century BC and the beginning of the 1st century AD. Just an hour outside of Verona, this is a great day trip option to explore one of the region’s archaeological wonders and onsite museum. Often frequented as a resort town, the Sirmione peninsula’s thermal spas, beaches, and central Scaligero Castle round out a full day of adventure.

Visit the birthplace of asiago cheese and beyond

Asiago has been produced in Veneto for hundreds of years in the foothills from a plateau with the same namesake as the cheese. The semi-hard cow’s milk is served pressed (fresh) or aged, and ready to be sampled at shops like the charming   Caseificio Pennar Asiago   and family-owned   Locanda Stella Alpina , located in the nearby village of   Tresche Conca.  

Lake Garda is also worth a visit for its cheeses, sourced from cows grazing on the mountain pasture areas around the lake. Many local farms and dairies offer tastings where visitors can sample a variety of cheeses paired with local wines and bread, including   Calvino Gusto Supremo . Monte Baldo, the highest peak on the east side of Lake Garda,   produces a number of alpine cheeses   like the semi soft Caciotta Latte Crudo that can be found at local shops like   Malga Pralongo .    

Garda is also celebrated for its high-quality   olive oils , recognized by the European Union as a PDO (Protected Designation of Origin). The delicate and fruity flavors that the olive oils of the region produce are due to Lake Garda’s agreeable Mediterranean microclimate.     The most widespread cultivations—Casaliva, Frantoio, and Leccino– can be sampled at mills like   Frantoio Manestrini   – with experiences that include olive oil tastings and a curated picnic.

Visit the tributes to Romeo & Juliet  

Parting may be such sweet sorrow when you leave Verona but be sure to visit some of the city’s Shakespearean landmarks before you do. The immortalized balcony of Juliet at Casa di Giulietta, where Romeo professed his love, is located just outside the city’s main promenade. Juliet’s tomb, set in a 13th century Franciscan convent, is memorialized at Verona’s San Francesco al Corso, said to be the final site of the tragic finale of the star-crossed lovers.    

Beyond Shakespearean homages around the city, Verona has a number of landmarks to experience: the bustling outdoor cafes of Piazza della Erbe and the well-preserved Verona Arena—built in the time of the emperor Tiberius in 30 A.D. Though tourist-filled restaurants are not hard to find here, some dining standouts worth planning for include Michelin Chef Giancarlo Perbellini’s   Casa Perbellini 12 Apostoli.   Book the Chef’s Table for an intimate experience of the team’s incredible attention to detail from the open view kitchen, and save room for dessert—presented on a series of plates like delicate works of art.    

Getting around

Travelers heading to Veneto will fly into   Venice’s Marco Polo airport . The fastest and most efficient way to get around Veneto’s surrounding cities is on   Trenitalia   and Italo fast trains . Tickets can be purchased online or directly at the station. Most cities in Veneto are in very close proximity via public transit. From Venice, you can reach Verona in about two hours, and Padua and Treviso in one hour. If you are traveling further north to Lake Garda or The Dolomites, trains are available, but renting a car is also a good option to move at a leisurely, scenic pace.    

Where to stay

If Venice is your base, check into the 5-star   St. Regis , located directly on the Grand Canal. 130 guestrooms and 39 suites, some with private terraces, provide incredible views of the Grand Canal, and the service here is top notch.  

In Verona,   Hotel Indigo - Grand Hotel Des Arts, an IHG hote l allows for easy access to the nearby wine regions of Valpolicella and sits within walking distance to the city’s major landmarks.  

Further north   Cape of Senses   on Lake Garda is an all-suite spa hideaway heralded by   THE AFICIONADOS ––a travel curation collective––as one of the best holistic getaways in Italy.  

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• FOOD CULTURE
• FOOD TOURISM
• HISTORIC SITES

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Venice: Murano and Burano Half-Day Boat Tour

Exploring the enchanting islands of Murano and Burano is a must-do for any visitor to Venice. This half-day boat tour offers a captivating glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of these two iconic destinations. Travelers can witness the remarkable craft of glassblowing in Murano and stroll through the vibrant, colorful streets of Burano , renowned for its lace-making traditions. With private boat transportation, expert guided commentary, and the chance to savor local delicacies , this excursion promises an unforgettable adventure. But what truly sets this tour apart is the opportunity to take in the unique charms that have captivated visitors for centuries.

• This 4-hour guided excursion provides a comprehensive experience exploring the iconic Venetian islands of Murano and Burano.
• The tour includes a captivating glassblowing demonstration in Murano, showcasing the island’s rich cultural heritage of glass-making.
• Guests have the opportunity to freely explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Burano, known for its brightly colored houses and lace-making tradition.
• The tour package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a local guide, and private boat transport, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience.
• The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, and large bags are prohibited to ensure smooth navigation through the islands.

More tours and experiences nearby.

• Murano & Burano Islands Guided Small-Group Tour by Private Boat
• Legendary Venice St. Marks Basilica With Terrace Access & Doges Palace
• Venice in a Day: Basilica San Marco, Doges Palace & Gondola Ride
• Eat Like a Local: 3-hour Venice Small-Group Food Tasting Walking Tour

Tour Overview

The Venice: Murano and Burano Half-Day Boat Tour is a comprehensive 4-hour excursion that provides visitors with a guided exploration of these two renowned Venetian islands.

Priced at SEK 8,171 per group (up to 6 participants), the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off , a local guide, and private boat transportation between the islands and the hotels.

Participants will have the opportunity to witness a glassblowing demonstration in Murano, stroll through the vibrant neighborhoods of both islands, and enjoy free time to explore, shop, and try local delicacies.

While food and drinks aren’t included, an optional 2-hour lunch add-on is suggested.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and large bags or luggage aren’t allowed.

Highlights of the Tour

A guided visit to the renowned islands of Murano and Burano is the centerpiece of this immersive half-day tour, allowing participants to learn about the local history and culture.

In Murano, visitors will witness a captivating glassblowing demonstration , gaining insight into the island’s centuries-old tradition of glass art. Afterward, they’ll have free time to explore the charming neighborhoods, browse the shops for unique souvenirs, and indulge in local delicacies.

The tour then transitions to Burano, renowned for its vibrant, brightly colored houses and lace-making heritage. Here, guests can stroll through the picturesque streets, admiring the skilled artisans at work and soaking in the island’s vibrant atmosphere .

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour package includes hotel pickup and drop-off , a local guide , a private boat from the hotel to Murano, a shuttle boat from Murano to Burano, and a private boat from Burano back to the hotel.

However, food and drinks aren’t included, though an optional 2-hour lunch add-on is suggested.

Participants should note that the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users , and luggage or large bags aren’t allowed.

The tour’s inclusions provide a comprehensive yet hassle-free experience, allowing guests to focus on exploring the highlights of Murano and Burano without worrying about transportation logistics.

This tour offers an immersive and memorable way to experience the rich culture and history of these iconic Venetian islands.

Participant Information

Tour participants should be aware that this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users , and luggage or large bags aren’t allowed on the boats. This is due to the nature of the tour, which involves navigating narrow canals and small vessels.

Visitors with mobility challenges may find the terrain and transportation options challenging. Plus, the tour’s logistics require keeping the boats unencumbered to ensure a smooth and safe experience for all participants.

Guests are advised to pack light and leave any bulky items behind. The tour operator’s focus is on providing an immersive and enjoyable experience in Murano and Burano, so these restrictions are in place to optimize the tour for all attendees.

Customer Reviews

Customers have overwhelmingly praised this tour, awarding it an impressive 4.8 out of 5 overall rating based on 40 reviews. Highlighting the knowledgeable guides, personalized experiences, and the avoidance of crowded public transport, the positive feedback demonstrates the tour’s strong appeal. Reviewers particularly commended the expertise of the local guides, who brought the history and culture of Murano and Burano to life. The seamless transportation by private and shuttle boats also earned high marks for convenience and comfort. Lastly, the tour’s value for money was praised, making it an exceptional experience for the price.

Pickup and Drop-off

This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off , making it convenient for participants. The pickup service covers select hotels , though a supplement applies for those staying at Kempinski, JW Marriott, or Lido hotels. After the tour, the private boat will return guests directly to their hotel.

The included pickup service saves you the hassle of finding your own transportation to the meeting point.

Avoid the crowds and enjoy a seamless door-to-door experience with the private boat transfers.

Whether you’re staying at one of the included hotels or need to pay a small supplement, the pickup and drop-off service ensures a stress-free start and end to your tour.

Glassblowing Demonstration

One of the highlights of the Murano and Burano boat tour is the opportunity to witness a captivating glassblowing demonstration in Murano, the renowned center of glass-making in Venice.

During this mesmerizing experience, visitors can observe skilled artisans skillfully manipulating molten glass, transforming it into intricate and beautiful creations.

Participants will be amazed by the speed and dexterity of the glassblowers as they shape the glass, showcasing the centuries-old techniques passed down through generations.

The demonstration provides a fascinating glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Murano and its time-honored tradition of glass-making, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for the artistry and craftsmanship behind these unique Venetian masterpieces.

Exploring Vibrant Neighborhoods

After the captivating glassblowing demonstration in Murano, the tour whisks visitors away to the charming, colorful island of Burano, known for its vibrant fishermen’s houses, lace-making tradition, and peaceful canals.

Strolling through the island’s narrow streets, travelers are enchanted by the rainbow-hued facades and the friendly locals who proudly display their handmade lace masterpieces.

The tour provides ample free time to explore at one’s own pace, allowing visitors to:

Wander through the picturesque piazzas and alleyways, admiring the intricate architecture

Stop for a taste of traditional Burano delicacies, like the famous Buranelli cookies

Browse the quaint shops for unique lace souvenirs and other local crafts

This slice of Venetian life offers a delightful respite from the crowds, immersing guests in the island’s captivating culture and tranquil ambiance.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.

• Experience Venice Like a Local: Small Group Cicchetti & Wine Tour
• Dolomite Mountains and Cortina Semi Private Day Trip From Venice
• Tour of The Real Hidden Venice
• Venice: St Marks Basilica After-Hours Tour With Optional Doges Palace
• Murano Glass Experience With a Visit to a Burano Lace Island
• Venice Sightseeing Walking Tour With a Local Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I Need to Bring My Own Life Jacket?

No, participants do not need to bring their own life jackets. Life jackets are typically provided by the tour operator for safety during boat rides. The tour company handles all necessary equipment for the excursion.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Am Sick?

The cancellation policy generally allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. If you’re sick, you should contact the tour operator as soon as possible to cancel your booking and inquire about any potential refund or rescheduling options.

Can I Take Photos During the Glassblowing Demonstration?

Yes, visitors are typically allowed to take photos during the glassblowing demonstration, as long as they don’t interfere with the artisans’ work. However, visitors should be respectful and avoid using flash photography, which could disrupt the delicate process.

Are There Any Discounts for Seniors or Children?

The tour does not offer any discounts for seniors or children. The price is a flat rate per group, up to 6 participants, regardless of age. Discounts are not mentioned in the tour details provided.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There is no option to extend the tour duration. The tour is offered as a pre-set 4-hour experience, and any additional time would need to be arranged separately. Extending the tour is not an available feature.

Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

• Venice Airport: Round Trip Private Transfer to Treviso City
• Noventa Designer Outlet From/to Venice Car Terminal
• From Rome: Venice Private Tour by Lamborghini With Gondola
• Fresh Pasta Class at Locals Home in Venice
• Murano & Burano Private Tour Hotel Pickup Venice Island Only
• Venice: Yacht Cruise in Venice Lagoon
• Venice: Private Boat Tour to Murano, Burano, Torcello
• 2 Hour Night Kayak Tour in Venice, Premium Experience With Sunset
• Private 7-Hour Prosecco Wine Tour From Venice
• Venice: Murano Glassblowing & Prosecco Private Experience
• Good Morning Venice: Coffee, Desserts With Highlights of Venice
• Venice: Murano, Burano, and Torcello Islands Private Tour
• St Marks Basilica Tour
• Unknown Corners of Venice
• Venice: 2-Hour Masks & Puppets Tour for Children

The Murano and Burano Half-Day Boat Tour offers an immersive cultural experience in the enchanting islands of Venice.

Visitors can witness the captivating art of glassblowing , explore the vibrant neighborhoods, and savor local delicacies.

With private boat transport, hotel pickup and drop-off, and expert guidance, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure for all who embark on this journey through Venice’s rich heritage.

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Slow travel & blogging, milan and beyond: shopping guide & day trips.

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Milan is not only the fashion capital of the world, but also the gateway to some of the most beautiful destinations in Italy.

In fact, Milan serves as the ideal hub for your Italian adventure, thanks to its excellent transportation links.

And of course, you wouldn’t say no to a spot of shopping while you’re there.

So, we’ve put together a guide to help you shop wisely in the city. We’ve also listed the best day trips from Milan.

So, let’s dive right in!

Where to stay in Milan

When visiting Milan, you’ll want to choose accommodation that helps you soak up the city’s ambiance.

The Square Milano Duomo is a top choice for travelers looking to stay in the heart of the city. Located near Milan Cathedral (Duomo di Milano), this hotel offers many amenities and the rooms are super clean and comfy.

Additionally, it offers easy access to the city’s top attractions, including the Milan Cathedral (Duomo di Milano) and La Scala Theatre.

Other good options include Hotel Milano Castello , known for its exquisite decor, and Hotel Da Vinci , which is just a two-minute walk from the train station.

Shopping in Milan

Milan is a shopper’s paradise, especially for those with a taste for luxury.

The Quadrilatero della Moda is the city’s most famous shopping district, home to designer boutiques and high-class stores.

If you’re looking for a more immersive shopping experience, head to the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II , an architectural marvel and also a famous tourist spot that houses some of the world’s most prestigious brands. 

For a blend of culture and shopping, the Brera District offers a charming mix of art galleries, cafes, and unique shops.

If you’re in the mood for a bargain, take a trip to the Serravalle Designer Outlet . Here, you can find discounted prices on designer goods.

Luggage transfer services in Milan

Travelling with suitcases can be a hassle, especially if it takes you about one hour to get from the Milan Malpensa Airport or Linate Airport to the city centre.

Many visitors choose Malpensa Express or the bus to get to their hotels, but luggage storage space is limited.

LuggAgent offers a convenient airport to hotel luggage transferring service from both Milan Malpensa Airport and Linate Airport . This service is perfect for travelers who want to start their trip without worrying about their bags.

Whether you’re arriving in Milan for fashion week or heading out on a day trip, LuggAgent ensures your luggage is delivered safely and on time.

Tip: Use the discount code GRUMPYCAMEL10 to get 10% off your booking.

Best day trips from Milan

One of the best things about Milan is its geographical location. It’s close to some of Italy’s most beautiful destinations.

Here are a few stunning places you can visit on a day trip from Milan.

Lake Como is a breathtaking destination known for its stunning landscapes and charming towns like Bellagio. The lake is surrounded by mountains, offering a serene escape from the city.

To get there, you can take a train from Milan to Lake Como, which takes about an hour.

Once you arrive, you can explore the lake by boat, visit historic villas, or simply enjoy the picturesque views.

No trip to Italy is complete without a visit to Venice.

Known for its iconic canals, gondola rides, and historic sites such as St. Mark’s Basilica, Venice is a city like not other.

From Milan, it’s a 2.5-hour train ride to Venice. Once you’re there, getting around is easy with the Vaporetto (water bus).

If you decide to spend a few days in Venice, it would be best to use a luggage transfer service provided by LuggAgent to avoid lugging bags through narrow streets and over bridges.

For a taste of luxury and coastal beauty, head to Portofino. This picturesque harbour town is famous for its stunning views and upscale lifestyle.

To reach Portofino, take a train from Milan to Santa Margherita Ligure, a journey of about two hours, followed by a short bus or ferry ride.

Whether you’re enjoying a meal overlooking the harbor or exploring the scenic hiking trails, Portofino offers a relaxing and luxurious escape.

If you’re dreaming of crystal-clear waters and pollution-free beaches, Sardinia is the perfect place.

Known for its beautiful coastline, this island offers some of the best beaches in Italy.

A flight from Milan to either Cagliari or Olbia takes about 1.5 hours. Once you arrive, you can explore the island’s diverse landscapes, from sandy beaches to rugged mountains.

Frequently asked questions

Is milan worth visiting.

Definitely!

Milan is a dynamic city that beautifully blends history, culture, and modernity. It’s also the fashion capital of the world, with its famous Fashion Week drawing global attention.

Whether you’re here for the historic sights, shopping, or enjoying the vibrant culinary scene, Milan offers a unique and enriching experience.

What is Milan famous for?

Milan is renowned for its iconic Milan Cathedral (Duomo di Milano), its status as the global fashion capital, and its vibrant shopping districts like the Quadrilatero della Moda.

Need travel insurance?

SafetyWing provides global travel medical insurance that covers people from all over the world. You can purchase the insurance even if you’re already abroad!

Get your flight, bus & train tickets from one place!

Omio  helps you find and compare flights, as well as bus, train, and ferry tickets.

You can manage your trips on the free app. You’ll also get live journey updates!

This post might contain affiliate links. This means that I may receive a commission on any purchases made through the links in the post, at no extra cost to you.

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• Destinations

Here's everything to know before planning a solo trip to Vietnam

By Jemima Skelley | 18 hours ago

More than half of Aussies are planning to take a solo trip this year, from short weekends away to extended holidays around the world.

Vietnam is a popular choice for people taking a holiday on their own – it's relatively cheap, easy to get around, and there are heaps of things to do and see that'll keep you entertained. Plus the food is amazing.

But where to go? We reached out to the experts at InsideAsia for their top tips.

What you add to your itinerary is totally dependent on your interests, timeframe, and budget. The experts at InsideAsia can help you create a fully bespoke trip that ticks all your boxes.

READ MORE: These are the best beaches in Australia, as voted by our readers

Here's everything to know before embarking on a solo trip to Vietnam.

Tip 1: Food is the gateway into any culture

One of the absolute musts in Vietnam is the street food. Perch on a plastic stool slurping a bún chả and grab an incredibly cheap beer or the famous egg coffee and people-watch.

Yep, that's right, egg coffee.

It sounds strange but it tastes amazing - be sure to try one when you're there. 

READ MORE: Liquid hand luggage rules return in the EU this weekend - here's what that means

Get up close and personal with the food culture by taking part in a cooking class. Walk through the markets with a local chef, select your produce and then learn how to cook a traditional meal in their home kitchen as they explain their unique methods.

Food is central to culture and provides meaningful insight into the psychosocial dynamics at play.

Tip 2: Be curious, be open

Solo travel is the ultimate freedom to explore without compromise. You will find that Vietnamese people are very warm and welcoming – the more you embrace the culture, the more it will embrace you.

It's all about getting up early for a syrupy egg coffee (yes, we said egg) while old ladies practise t'ai chi around Hoan Kiem Lake. It's about staying up late to drink beers and eat bun cha barbecued pork with the locals.

It's about meeting people and getting to know the culture, whether that means exploring the morning food markets with a local chef or cutting-edge contemporary art with a young curator.

READ MORE: Grocery store tourism: Why travellers are flocking to supermarkets on holiday

Tip 3: Go with the flow

Not everything will always go to plan when travelling around Vietnam, but don't let that throw you off course. Having the flexibility to adapt is all part of the travel experience, and often leads to the most unexpectedly incredible experiences.

There are countless versions of Vietnam to be explored – from revisiting the Communist era, touring the war museums, visiting temples or meandering the chaotic market streets dating back to the imperial dynasties.

Tip 4: Act confident

Confidence is key. Even if you're unsure, just fake it 'till you make it – you'll be surprised at how far this approach takes you. When crossing the road, put your hand out with authority, signalling others to stop and make way.

Generally speaking, the tourism infrastructure in Hanoi is very good – things are accessible, Google Maps works well and everything is in close proximity. It's best to be on foot and take it all in from the ground. Don't be intimidated by the unfamiliar, lean into it.

Just be sure to observe your surroundings and stay mindful of what is happening around you.

Tip 5: Vary the pace

Vietnam is an amazingly varied country. From city to country to seaside, there's so much diversity of landscapes to be enjoyed. The northern and southern ends of the country are vastly different.

The south is steamy and flat, the food is spicier, and the people are less reserved than their northern counterparts. Embracing the differences and learning to understand the relative cultural nuances is what makes a trip to Vietnam so special – set apart from anywhere else in the world.

Tip 6: Respect the place and the people you meet

When travelling, especially solo, it's essential to approach new cultures and communities with respect and humility. This means being mindful of local customs, traditions, and sensitivities. One of the most enriching aspects of travel is the opportunity to connect with people from different backgrounds.

But the trick is to let these interactions unfold naturally. Instead of pressing for information or prying, allow those you meet to share their stories in their own time and way. Remember, travel is as much about what you learn from others as it is about the places you visit.

This is why it can be so great to travel with a guide, who can help you navigate interactions with new people as you travel. 

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Top 20 Best Things to Do in Bangkok 2024: Bangkok Travel Guide

September 2, 2024

Check the best things to do in Bangkok. Find out about Bangkok's top attractions, the best food, hotels, transportation, and everything you need to know for your Bangkok trip.

Bangkok Basic Info for Tourists

Bangkok, the vibrant capital of Thailand, is a city that never sleeps. With its rich cultural heritage, bustling markets, and stunning temples, there's no shortage of things to do in Bangkok. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or a shopaholic, Bangkok has something for everyone. In this guide, we'll take you through the best things to do in Bangkok Thailand in 2024, including top attractions, must-try foods, and recommended accommodations.

Some fun facts about Bangkok🤣

• Bangkok is officially known as Krung Thep Maha Nakhon in Thai.💐
• Bangkok attracts around 15 million tourists annually, making it one of the world's most popular cities. 💋
• Bangkok is the world's hottest city with an annual mean air temperature of 28°C.🌞
• Bangkok's Chinatown, known as Yaowarat, is reputed to be the largest in the world and is famous for its cuisine and affordable goods.✨

Best Time to Visit Bangkok and What to Wear

Bangkok enjoys a tropical climate, making it warm all year round. However, the best time to visit Bangkok is between November and February when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for sightseeing. The rainy season from June to October can also be a good time to visit if you prefer fewer crowds, though you'll need to be prepared for sudden showers.

• Winter (November to February): Pleasant weather (24°C to 31°C), ideal for sightseeing.💙
• Summer (March to May): Hot weather (27°C to 35°C), great for experiencing local festivals like Songkran.💖
• Rainy Season (June to October): Warm and humid (25°C to 32°C), frequent rain, fewer tourists.💚

Check the table below to decide your best times to visit Bangkok: 👀

Get connected in Bangkok

More about Thailand eSIM

How to get to bangkok: flight deals.

To travel to Bangkok from the USA, Singapore, Australia, the UK, and other European countries, the quickest and most convenient way is to book a direct flight to Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) or Don Mueang International Airport (DMK) from major cities like New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Singapore, Sydney, Melbourne, and London. You can find great flight deals on Trip.com . Check out the cheap flight deals to Bangkok below

Pls find Cheap Flight Deals to Bangkok below 👇👇🎁

Bangkok Transportation Guide

How to Get Around Bangkok

Bangkok offers a variety of convenient transportation options, including the BTS Skytrain, MRT Subway, buses, tuk-tuks, taxis, motorbike taxis, and boats. These modes of transport provide efficient and affordable ways to explore the vibrant city. Transportation Options in Bangkok:

• BTS Skytrain: The BTS Skytrain is a fast and efficient way to travel around Bangkok, with two main lines covering key areas of the city. Tickets range from 16 to 59 THB, and trains run every 3-7 minutes.
• MRT Subway : The MRT Subway complements the BTS Skytrain by covering additional areas of Bangkok. Ticket prices range from 16 to 42 THB, with trains arriving every 5-7 minutes.
• Buses : Bangkok's bus network is extensive and offers the most economical way to travel. Ticket prices range from 8 to 24 THB, but buses can be less reliable due to traffic.
• Tuk-tuks : Tuk-tuks are a popular and iconic mode of transport in Bangkok, ideal for short trips. Prices are negotiable and typically range from 30 to 150 THB.
• Taxis : Taxis are widely available and offer a comfortable way to travel, especially for longer distances. The base fare is 35 THB, with an additional 5.50 THB per kilometer.
• Motorbike Taxis : Motorbike taxis are a quick and convenient option for short distances, especially in heavy traffic. Prices are negotiable and generally range from 10 to 100 THB.
• Boats : Boats provide a scenic and unique way to travel along Bangkok's rivers and canals. Ticket prices range from 10 to 40 THB, with services running every 10-20 minutes.
• Rent a car with Trip.com and enjoy 12% off on your booking! Planning to explore Bangkok and its surroundings? Choose from a variety of models to suit your needs:

Bangkok Airport Transportation

From Bangkok airports (Suvarnabhumi Airport and Don Mueang Airport) to downtown Bangkok, multiple transportation options are available.

Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK)

• Airport Rail Link : Direct train to central Bangkok. Operates from 6:00 AM to 12:00 AM. One-way ticket costs 45 THB ($1.30), with a travel time of about 30 minutes.
• Airport Bus (S1) : Direct bus service to Khao San Road. Runs from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Ticket price is 60 THB ($1.80), with a travel time of about 60 minutes.
• Taxis : Available 24/7. Metered fare to central Bangkok is approximately 300-500 THB ($9-$15), plus a 50 THB airport surcharge. Travel time is about 30-60 minutes depending on traffic.

Don Mueang Airport (DMK)

• A1 Bus : Direct bus to Mo Chit BTS Station. Operates from 7:00 AM to 12:00 AM. Ticket price is 30 THB ($0.90), with a travel time of about 20-30 minutes.
• A2 Bus : Direct bus to Victory Monument. Runs from 7:00 AM to 12:00 AM. Ticket price is 30 THB ($0.90), with a travel time of about 40-60 minutes.
• Taxis : Available 24/7. Metered fare to central Bangkok is approximately 200-400 THB ($6-$12), plus a 50 THB airport surcharge. Travel time is about 30-60 minutes depending on traffic.

What are the Main Attractions in Bangkok

Bangkok is a city of contrasts, where ancient temples like the Grand Palace and Wat Arun meet modern marvels like King Power Mahanakhon Sky Walk. Stroll through the lively Khaosan Road and visit the iconic Erawan Shrine.

For family fun, head to Safari World or Dream World. Just outside the city, explore the famous Damnoen Saduak Floating Market and cultural treasures like Muangboran and the Erawan Museum. Bangkok promises an unforgettable adventure for all!

Here is a guide to some of the must-visit sites in Bangkok 💗

Check out the details about these attractions below. 👇👇👇

Top 20 Best Things to Do in Bangkok

Things to do in Bangkok #1: The Grand Palace

A symbol of Bangkok's royal heritage and a must-visit for tourists, this Siamese-style palace complex showcases the finest in Thai painting, sculpture, and decorative arts; be sure to snap a photo with the Royal Guards in their distinctive white uniforms.

*Opening hours may differ. Please confirm the opening hours for specific days.

Things to do in Bangkok #2: Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan

Wat Arun, located along the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok Yai District, is a prominent Buddhist temple known for its central Khmer-style tower. The exterior is adorned with glazed porcelain tiles and seashells, making it shine brilliantly, especially in the early morning light. It once housed the famous Emerald Buddha before it was moved to Wat Phra Kaew in 1785. As one of Bangkok’s most beloved temples, Wat Arun is a must-see attraction for visitors.

Things to do in Bangkok #3: SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World

SEA LIFE Bangkok Ocean World is a comprehensive ocean-themed scenic spot that integrates exploring the mysterious ocean, visiting marine life exhibitions, and popularizing ocean science knowledge. Here you can enjoy 30,000 marine creatures, spanning more than 400 marine species. There are 6 In the theme exhibition area, not only can you enjoy all kinds of rare marine animals, but you can also interact closely and appreciate the marine ecology up close.

Things to do in Bangkok #4: Chao Phraya River

The Seine River flows through the heart of Paris, offering beautiful views of the city’s landmarks. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely cruise along the river to see sights such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum. Many cruises offer dinner and live music for a memorable experience.

Things to do in Bangkok #5: Golden Dome Cabaret Show

The Palais Garnier is a stunning opera house and a masterpiece of 19th-century theater architecture. Visitors can tour the grand foyer, the chandeliered auditorium, and the museum of the Opera House. The Palais Garnier is also home to the Paris Opera Ballet.

Things to do in Bangkok #6: Safari World Bangkok

Located next to Fashion Island Shopping Center, transportation is very convenient. It contains two major parks: Safari Park and Marine Park. The safari park brings together many rare wild animals from around the world, visiting the homes of giraffes, zebras, tigers and lions. Performances in the Marine Park include dolphins, sea lions, etc. and some Thai folk performances.

Things to do in Bangkok #7: King Power Mahanakhon Sky Walk

With this ticket, you'll be soaring to the rooftop of the observation deck in 50 seconds. Reach the top of Bangkok's skyline and enjoy stunning views of the entire city - the views are spectacular day or night. Walk through the huge glass-floored skywalk and be 310 meters above the bustling Thai capital.

Things to do in Bangkok #8: Wonderful Pearl Cruise

The Bright Pearl is a new ship on the Chao Phraya River. It has three floors and a fountain . It is very fashionable and atmospheric. "Operation Mekong" was also shot here. In addition to a variety of buffets, there are live romantic jazz bands and traditional song and dance performances on board, so that your time on the Chao Phraya River will not be wasted.

Things to do in Bangkok #9: The Temple of the Emerald Buddha

Located in the northeast corner of the Grand Palace, it is the symbol of Bangkok and a must-visit place when traveling in Thailand. Royal families of all ages have held important ceremonies here. Occupying a quarter of the entire Grand Palace, the temple's magnificent architecture and dazzling gold and jade combine the characteristics of all Thai Buddhist temples. There are pagodas standing like a forest in the temple, with different shapes and bright colors, which are very spectacular.

Things to do in Bangkok #10: Erawan Shrine

The Four-Faced Buddha in Bangkok, Thailand, is known for its efficacy. For this reason, the Buddha is widely admired and highly sought after by the stars and celebrities of Hong Kong and Taiwan. Because it is located near large shopping malls like the Central World, it has also become a famous tourist attraction in Bangkok. In Thailand and Southeast Asia, the Four-Faced Buddha is considered a benevolent god. The Four-faced Buddha in Bangkok is in the Erawan Shrine amd the statue of the god is about 4 meters high. There are four faces altogether, which represent the four virtues of compassion, empathy, joy and charity. Those who pray for spiritual ascension must work hard to cultivate these four virtues.

Things to do in Bangkok #11: Muangboran the Ancient City (Samut Prakan)

"A thousand years of Siam, a day in the ancient city."

The Ninth Emperor of Thailand conferred the title of national cultural heritage. The Ninth Emperor of Thailand and Queen Elizabeth of the United Kingdom attended the opening ceremony in person. It brings together classic Internet celebrities, film and television bases, Buddhist holy sites, historical sites, folk culture, and floating markets.

After more than half a century and tens of billions of dollars spent on carving, it is a cultural treasure and a wonder of Thailand that will never be completed. In the ancient city, every leaf, every stone, and every stream whispers the story of the years, waiting for you to wear Thai clothes and travel through the nearly 800 years of ancient Siam history, just like you came to my arms, let me live in your heart, and we will love you forever.

Things to do in Bangkok #12: Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

The Damnoen Saduak Floating Market is located in southwest Bangkok about 2 hours away by car. The market still maintains the flavor of old water markets in Thailand. The market dates back more than 100 years. Many movies have been filmed here, including one in the James Bond series. The market generally lasts from early morning until around 2 pm, and you will see local people wearing straw hats and rowing boats carrying vegetables, fruit, and small goods in canals lined with tropical trees. The boats traverse the narrow waterways as vendors hawk their goods. This is still a portrait of life in Bangkok.

Things to do in Bangkok #13: Calypso Cabaret

Don't miss the impersonations of Marilyn Monroe and Elvis Presley, exaggerated and comical performances, and the enchanting Thai dance performance. Make a reservation for dinner at Cripso Restaurant, where you can enjoy delicious Thai cuisine while watching traditional Thai classical dance before the cabaret show. The Cripso Cabaret Show is located in the lively dining and entertainment center - Asiatique Riverside Pier Night Market. Let's enjoy an exciting and unforgettable night together.

Things to do in Bangkok #14: The Erawan Museum

The Erawan Museum weighs 250 tons and is about 16 stories high. It is carved from pure copper. Through the elevator in the elephant's legs, you can lead to the museum in the belly of the elephant to explore the mysteries of Thailand's elephant god culture. Feel the charm of architectural culture and religious art.

Things to do in Bangkok #15: Rajadamnern Muay Thai Stadium

Rajadamnern is one of the well-known local competition venues in Bangkok. Whenever the competition, it will gather Muay Thai players from all over Thailand. It was built before the Second World War and was only completed in 1941. When it was first built, it was an open-air plaza without a house. Later, it was slowly remodeled and kept up with the times. Now the Rajadamnern Muay Thai Plaza has become a symbol of great significance. venue. There are regular games every week here. At this time, the entire venue is full of people and seats are full. Many fanatic fans prefer to stand and watch the game, so that they can fully experience the lively atmosphere of the scene. If tourists from other places do not understand the charm of Muay Thai, they may not understand their madness. This is a very violent and bloody match. There is no fake and no show. Many passionate young people come from afar to watch a real Muay Thai match.

Things to do in Bangkok #16: Khaosan Road

When talking about Bangkok, you have to talk about Khao San Road. Khao San Road is the spirit of the city’s nightlife and a base camp for backpackers. In fact, Khao San Road is just 300 meters long, and walking the length of the road only takes about 15 minutes. However, its crowdedness at night is astounding. There are various classes of hotels and flophouses, shops, travel agencies, currency exchanges, restaurants of all flavors, bars, cafes, massage parlors, and local specialty stores along the road. If you want to know the life in Bangkok, you can come here.

Things to do in Bangkok #17: Royal Princess Cruises

Enjoy a 2-hour dinner cruise along Bangkok's main waterways with Royal Princess Cruises. Marvel at the city's temples and other historical monuments. Board a safe and comfortable cruiser and experience the Chao Phraya River at night. Enjoy riverside views from the open-air upper deck. Take in the sight of Bangkok's landmarks and monuments illuminated at night as you enjoy a sumptuous dinner buffet featuring international cuisine accompanied by soothing music.

Things to do in Bangkok #18: Madame Tussauds BANGKOK

Southeast Asia's premier wax museum, which houses not only political figures from various countries, but also various cultural and sports stars. Visit eight unique areas of the museum, each with interactive features you can engage with to enrich your visit. Learn about the fine art of wax carving in authentic historical exhibits.

Things to do in Bangkok #19: Dream World

Known as “Thailand Disney”, it is a fantasy park full of fairy tale colors! Exciting and thrilling rides, lively and interesting cartoon character performances, models of the Seven Wonders of the World, and all the fun of skiing in Snow Town. Try local specialties and take home unique souvenirs.

Things to do in Bangkok #20: Bangkok Shooting Range

The large shooting distance is 25 meters, you can shoot in the same scene and enjoy the thrills. Professional coaches are always on hand to guide you. Beginners, women and even respected seniors can enjoy safe and enjoyable shooting. For amateur or professional shooters looking to level up their skills, they love a place to practice their shooting skills and rate their shooting ability, as well-trained officers can provide private instruction and follow the directions for individual training . And our shooting range can meet that need.

Top 5 Things to Eat in Bangkok

Bangkok Food #1: Paste Bangkok

Dine like Thai royalty at the 1-Michelin-starred Paste Bangkok. Enjoy a 7-course lunch tasting menu for 2300 baht (~HKD 510) per person . Led by one of Asia's top female chefs, Paste offers innovative Thai cuisine inspired by traditional royal recipes. Each dish is rich in flavor and texture, providing a memorable experience for those who appreciate exotic tastes.

Bangkok Food #2: Mezzaluna

The Michelin-starred Mezzaluna offers a stunning night-time dining experience with surprise courses. Located on the 65th floor of the Lotus Tower, it boasts breathtaking views of the Chao Phraya River. The restaurant features top-quality ingredients flown in daily from France and Japan, including Hokkaido deep-sea Hichiji, Miyagi Yamashima Sakura hook kiss, Toyama Sakura squid, Niigata A5 beef, Oshitra caviar, French Bresse chicken, and Nagasaki red sea urchin. With meticulous attention to detail from Chef Kawasaki and an enthusiastic service team, Mezzaluna promises an unforgettable dining experience.

Bangkok Food #3: R-HAAN

This luxurious Thai restaurant in Bangkok features bright and elegant decor. However, it can be a bit tricky to find as it is often located in a small alley. The dishes are somewhat spicy, but they suit the taste perfectly, and every marinade is exceptionally delicious. The Tom Yum Goong soup and curry fish come highly recommended for their outstanding flavors.

Bangkok Food #4: Sra Bua by Kiin Kiin

Sra Bua by Kiin Kiin, located in the Kempinski Hotel Bangkok, is the Bangkok branch of the Michelin-starred Kiin Kiin from Denmark, founded by Chef Henrik Yde Andersen. This restaurant offers a serene atmosphere, innovative Thai cuisine, and top-tier service, all meeting Michelin standards. Despite the high quality, the prices are quite reasonable. Consistently ranked among Asia's top 50 restaurants, Sra Bua by Kiin Kiin is an experience not to be missed.

Bangkok Food #5: Paii

Entering the restaurant, diners are greeted by the soothing scent of wood and gentle lighting that highlights the elegant tableware. The refined decor sets the stage for top-quality dishes, such as tender Spanish salmon with XO sauce oysters, which evoke a seaside experience. Following the seafood appetizers, the menu offers delights like juicy charcoal-grilled steaks, Thai-flavored Hokkaido steaks, and Roche marsh shrimps. Desserts maintain the high standard, providing visual and taste satisfaction. Seafood lovers should not miss this restaurant.

5 Best hotels in Bangkok

Check Best Hotels Near Key Attractions in Bangkok 🏨🏨

Bangkok Hotels #1: NASA BANGKOK

NASA Bangkok is located at 44 Sukhumvit 71 Rd. It offers amenities such as public parking, free Wi-Fi, a 24-hour front desk, a conference room, and luggage storage. Nearby attractions include Rajamangala National Stadium and Terminal 21 Shopping Mall. This hotel is known for its convenient location for sports and shopping enthusiasts.

NASA BANGKOK

Check Availability

Bangkok Hotels #2: Royal Rattanakosin Hotel

Royal Rattanakosin Hotel is situated at 2 Rajdamnoen Avenue. The hotel provides free Wi-Fi, an outdoor swimming pool, private parking, a bar, and currency exchange services. It is close to Khaosan Road and the Grand Palace, making it ideal for exploring cultural landmarks and vibrant nightlife.

Royal Rattanakosin Hotel

Swimming Pools

Bangkok Hotels #3: Hi Hotel Bangkok

Hi Hotel Bangkok can be found at 649 Thanon Asok - Din Daeng, Khwaeng Din Daeng. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi, a casino, a library, an executive lounge, a tea room, airport pick-up service, and luggage storage. It is near Supalai Park Asok-Ratchada and P. M. Tower, offering a blend of entertainment and relaxation options.

Hi Hotel Bangkok

Airport pickup service

Pets allowed

Bangkok Hotels #4: Livotel Hotel Lat Phrao Bangkok

Livotel Hotel Lat Phrao Bangkok is located at 707 Lat Phrao 130, Khlong Chan, Bang Kapi. The hotel features free Wi-Fi, a gym, private parking, luggage storage, and a conference room. Nearby attractions include Ridwanun Islam Mosque and the Church Of Covenant Bangkok. This hotel is great for guests looking for a peaceful and religious environment.

Livotel Hotel Lat Phrao Bangkok

Bangkok hotels #5: sotetsu grand fresa bangkok.

Sotetsu Grand Fresa Bangkok is situated at 7, Sukhumvit 25 Alley, Khlong Toei Nuea, Wattana. It offers free Wi-Fi, a breakfast buffet, and a 24-hour front desk. The hotel is close to The Cowboy Street and Kamthieng House Museum, making it perfect for those interested in local culture and nightlife.

Sotetsu Grand Fresa Bangkok

Faqs about bangkok travel, how can i get around bangkok, is it safe to eat street food in bangkok, what is the local currency and how can i exchange money, is bangkok expensive to travel.

• Things to Do in Bangkok
• 1. Bangkok Basic Info for Tourists
• 2. Best Time to Visit Bangkok and What to Wear
• 3. How to Get to Bangkok: Flight Deals
• 4. Bangkok Transportation Guide
• 5. What are the Main Attractions in Bangkok
• 6. Top 20 Best Things to Do in Bangkok
• 7. Top 5 Things to Eat in Bangkok
• 8. 5 Best hotels in Bangkok

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Your Guide to Skaftafell: Vatnajökull National Park

By Iceland Review

• September 2, 2024

Skaftafell is a stunning nature reserve located in the southeastern part of Iceland, within Vatnajökull National Park. It is one of the most popular destinations in the country for hiking and outdoor activities, known for its unique landscapes that blend lush greenery, glaciers, and volcanic features.

Read more: A Guide to Glaciers in Iceland

Table of Contents

How to get to skaftafell.

Start by taking Route 1 (the Ring Road) eastward from Reykjavík.

Follow Route 1 all the way to Skaftafell. The drive takes you through several towns, including Hveragerði, Selfoss, and Vík í Mýrdal, before reaching the Skaftafell area.

Look for signs indicating the turn-off to Skaftafell, which is clearly marked along Route 1.

Travel Time : The drive typically takes about 4.5 to 5 hours without stops, but you may want to allow extra time to enjoy the sights along the way.

Highlights Along the Route :

Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss : Two iconic waterfalls located just off Route 1.

Reynisfjara Beach : The famous black sand beach near Vík.

Dyrhólaey : A coastal promontory with stunning views.

Mýrdalsjökull Glacier : Visible from the road as you drive through the south coast.

Read more: The Best Summer Tours in Iceland

Guided Tour

Multi-Day Tour : Many tour companies offer guided tours that include transportation, accommodation, and guided activities in Skaftafell and other nearby attractions.

Day Tour : Some companies offer long day tours that cover major sights along the south coast, including a visit to Skaftafell.

Important Tips:

Fuel : If driving, make sure to fill up your gas tank in larger towns like Selfoss or Vík, as gas stations become less frequent as you approach Skaftafell.

Weather : Always check the weather and road conditions before setting out, especially in winter, as conditions can change rapidly.

Timing : While the drive can be done in a day, many visitors opt to stay overnight in Skaftafell or nearby areas to fully explore the region.

Svartifoss Waterfall

Svartifoss, also known as the “Black Waterfall,” is one of Iceland’s most iconic and striking waterfalls, located within Skaftafell in Vatnajökull National Park. It is renowned for its unique geological features and scenic beauty.

Svartifoss is famous for the dark hexagonal basalt columns that frame the waterfall. These columns were formed by the slow cooling of lava, which caused the basalt to contract and crack into geometric shapes. The stark black color of the columns contrasts beautifully with the white water cascading down, creating a dramatic visual effect.

The waterfall drops about 20 meters (65 feet) into a small plunge pool below. While not the tallest waterfall in Iceland, its unique setting makes it one of the most photographed.

Skaftafellsjökull Glacier

Skaftafellsjökull is a prominent glacier tongue that extends from Vatnajökull, the largest ice cap in Europe, located within Vatnajökull National Park in southeastern Iceland. This glacier is one of the main attractions in the Skaftafell area, offering visitors an up-close experience with Iceland’s powerful glacial landscapes.

Read more: Take Flight with Helicopter Tours in Iceland

Skaftafellsjökull is a “glacier tongue,” meaning it is a portion of a larger glacier that extends down from the main ice cap. It stretches down from Vatnajökull and flows into the surrounding valley, creating a striking visual spectacle with its ice formations, crevasses, and moraines.

Access and Hiking :

The glacier is accessible via a relatively easy hiking trail that starts from the Skaftafell Visitor Center. The hike takes about 1 to 1.5 hours round trip, depending on your pace and how much time you spend at the glacier. The trail is well-marked and leads you through a varied landscape of moraines and gravel plains before reaching the glacier’s edge.

While it is possible to get close to the glacier, walking on it without a guide is not recommended due to the dangers posed by crevasses and unstable ice.

Guided Glacier Tours :

For those looking to explore the glacier more closely, guided glacier hikes are available. These tours allow you to safely walk on the ice, explore crevasses, and learn about the glacier’s formation, movement, and the effects of climate change. The tours typically provide crampons and other necessary gear. Another option to safely view the glacier is by air, and many tour operators provide by helicopter and aerial plane tours over the glacier.

The views from the Skaftafellsjökull trail are breathtaking, offering panoramic vistas of the glacier itself, the surrounding mountains, and the expansive Skeiðarársandur, a vast glacial outwash plain. On clear days, the contrast between the white ice and the dark volcanic sands is particularly striking.

Geological Features :

Skaftafellsjökull, like other glaciers in Iceland, is a dynamic and constantly changing landscape. The glacier’s surface is characterized by deep crevasses, moulins (vertical shafts within the ice), and other ice formations that provide a fascinating insight into glacial processes.

The glacier is also a prime example of the effects of glacial retreat, as it has been gradually shrinking due to rising global temperatures. This ongoing retreat has left behind moraines and other geological features that tell the story of the glacier’s past.

Hiking in Skaftafell

Hiking in Skaftafell, part of Vatnajökull National Park in southeastern Iceland, is one of the highlights for visitors to the region. Skaftafell is renowned for its diverse and breathtaking landscapes, which include glaciers, waterfalls, mountains, and lush valleys. The park offers a variety of well-marked hiking trails suitable for all fitness levels, making it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers.

Read more: A Quick Guide to Hiking in Iceland

General Tips for Hiking in Skaftafell:

Weather : Weather in Skaftafell can be unpredictable, even in summer. Always check the forecast before heading out and be prepared for sudden changes. Bring waterproof clothing, warm layers, and sturdy hiking boots.

Safety : Some trails, especially those leading onto glaciers or higher elevations, require caution due to the potential for ice, loose rocks, and steep sections. If you plan to hike on the glacier, always go with a guide, as the terrain can be dangerous without proper equipment and knowledge.

Daylight : During the summer months, there is nearly 24 hours of daylight, which allows for extended hiking opportunities. In winter, daylight is limited, so plan your hikes accordingly and ensure you have enough time to return before dark.

Maps and Information : Stop by the Skaftafell Visitor Center for maps, trail information, and advice from park rangers. They can provide up-to-date information on trail conditions and safety tips.

Wildlife and Nature : Skaftafell is home to a variety of plant and animal life, including birds and small mammals. Respect the natural environment by staying on marked trails and following Leave No Trace principles.

Camping at Skaftafell

Camping at the Skaftafell Campground is a popular choice for visitors to Vatnajökull National Park, offering a convenient and scenic base for exploring the surrounding natural wonders, including the famous Svartifoss waterfall and Skaftafellsjökull glacier. Here’s what you need to know about camping at Skaftafell:

Skaftafell Campground is located within Vatnajökull National Park in southeastern Iceland, close to the park’s visitor center. It’s easily accessible from the Ring Road (Route 1) and serves as a central hub for exploring the Skaftafell area.

Facilities:

Campsites : The campground has a large, open area for tents and a separate section for campers and caravans. The sites are grassy and mostly flat, with some natural shelter provided by low hills and trees.

Restrooms and Showers : The campground has modern facilities, including restrooms, showers, and sinks for washing dishes. The showers are typically coin-operated.

Cooking Facilities : There is a designated area with sinks and tables for preparing meals, but no indoor kitchen facilities. Campers should bring their own portable stoves or cooking equipment.

Drinking Water : Fresh drinking water is available at several points throughout the campground.

Electricity : Electrical hookups are available for caravans and campers, but limited in number, so early arrival is recommended if you need electricity.

Waste Disposal : There are facilities for waste disposal and recycling, including specific stations for chemical toilet disposal.

Explore Ice Caves (Seasonal)

Ice caves in Skaftafell, located within Vatnajökull National Park, are among the most mesmerizing natural wonders in Iceland. These caves are formed within the glacier tongues of Vatnajökull, the largest ice cap in Europe, and offer visitors a chance to explore the stunning interior of a glacier. Here’s what you need to know about ice caves in Skaftafell:

Formation and Characteristics:

Natural Formation : Ice caves are formed by the movement of glaciers and the interaction of ice with meltwater. As water flows beneath the glacier or through crevasses, it carves out tunnels and chambers within the ice. Over time, these spaces expand to create the caves that can be explored during the winter months.

Unique Appearance : The ice inside these caves is typically incredibly clear and blue due to the density of the ice, which absorbs all colors of the light spectrum except blue. This creates a surreal, otherworldly environment with walls of deep, vibrant blue ice. Some ice caves may also contain layers of ash from volcanic eruptions, adding dark stripes or patterns to the ice.

Seasonal Phenomenon : Ice caves are typically accessible only during the winter months (November to March) when the glacier is stable and the caves are safe to enter. During the warmer months, the caves can melt and become unstable, making them dangerous to explore.

What to do and see near Skaftafell

The area around Skaftafell in Vatnajökull National Park is rich with stunning natural attractions and activities. Here are some essential sights and activities you shouldn’t miss!

Read more: Visit Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon :

Description : A stunning glacial lagoon filled with icebergs that have calved from the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier. The lagoon’s floating icebergs create a dramatic and picturesque scene.

Location : About a 45-minute drive east of Skaftafell.

Diamond Beach :

Description : Located across the road from Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, this black sand beach is dotted with glistening ice chunks that have washed ashore from the lagoon, resembling diamonds scattered on the sand.

Location : Adjacent to Jökulsárlón.

Frequently asked questions

How much time should i spend at skaftafell.

The amount of time you’ll need at Skaftafell depends on your planned activities. If you’re aiming to tackle one of the longer hikes, allocate at least a full day. However, if your goal is just to see Svartifoss, a couple of hours will suffice.

Do I need a guided tour?

If you are planning on just doing a short hike up to Svartifoss, then no, it’s likely going to be a better experience to explore the area on your own. But if you want to see the glacier, then you really do need a professional guide.

How hard is the hike to Svartifoss?

The hike to Svartifoss covers approximately 1.5 kilometers and takes about 45 minutes one way. When you reach Svartifoss, a small bridge near the waterfall allows you to get a closer view. The trail is slightly uphill, making it fairly easy overall, but it does require some effort, particularly for those who are not in great shape or new to hiking.

Can I visit all year?

Many activities at Skaftafell are seasonal. If you want to go on a day hike, then you need to visit during the summer, as trails will be iced over and inaccessible during the winter. However, if you want to see the ice caves and go on a glacier walk, then colder times of year will be best.

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