If you’re planning a trip to Italy, you’re probably wondering how many days to spend in Venice as part of your itinerary. With its winding canals, stunning architecture, and rich history, Venice is a unique destination that requires careful consideration when planning your itinerary.
There is a lot to do in Venice and it’s a very romantic city that you’re going to love strolling around, but Venice also has an issue with overtourism, which means you’ll be vying for precious space in a city that’s overrun with people.
» Here is our 2-week Italy itinerary to help you plan your trip around Italy’s top cities. We also have a travel guide for Venice, a 3-day Rome itinerary, things to see in Florence, foodie things to do in Bologna, and a guide to the top landmarks in Italy. Learn about renting a car in Italy. Be sure to check out our 2-week Europe Itinerary.
For me, it’s difficult to really enjoy a place when it’s so crowded, so I prefer to visit in the off-season (which barely exists) and to not stay very long.
In this article, we will provide tips and recommendations for planning your ideal Venice itinerary, including how to make the most of your time in the city to discover its many charms without overstaying your welcome.
Key Takeaways
- You can see many of the top sights in just a day or two, but you’ll need a week to properly dig into the neighborhoods and outer islands.
- Choose to go during low season to off-set the impact of overtourism in the city.
- Consider exploring the lesser-known islands of Venice and taking day trips to nearby destinations to lessen your time in the main tourist areas.
Ideal Duration for a Venice Visit
The ideal duration of your stay in Venice depends on several factors, including your interests, budget, and travel style. However, most visitors agree that spending 3 to 4 days in Venice is the best way to see the main attractions, as well as visit some islands and even go on a day trip.
If you only have 2 days to spend in Venice, you can still visit the highlights of the city and stroll the streets by the canals. It will be a busy but wonderful 2 days in Venice.
Spend your first day exploring the main attractions, such as St. Mark’s Square (aka San Marco). This is the touristy heart of Venice and home to Doge’s Palace, St. Mark’s Square, and the Rialto Bridge. Most tourists spend the majority of their time here, along with Dorsoduro (Pont dell’Accademia, Peggy Guggenheim Collection, and Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute), and San Polo.
On the second day, consider taking a day trip to the nearby islands of Murano and Burano or Lido. If you have more than 2 days, you can slow down and explore the city at a more leisurely pace.
If you have 5 to 7 days to spend in Venice, you can explore the city in more depth and take some time to relax and soak up the atmosphere.
Consider taking a gondola ride through the Venetian Lagoon, visiting some lesser-known museums and galleries, or simply wandering through the city’s narrow streets and alleys. You can also use Venice as a base to explore the surrounding region, including the nearby cities of Verona and Padua.
If you have more time to spend in Italy, I’d recommend only spending three days in Venice, then heading to other places like Rome, Amalfi Coast, the Veneto region, or Cinque Terre.
When to Visit
It’s important to consider the time of year you’re visiting. Venice can get quite crowded during peak season, which typically runs from May through October. This is a time that I would absolutely avoid going to Venice, for a number of reasons.
For one, it’s very hot and muggy (I can’t emphasis that enough). It’s very crowded to where you’re elbow to elbow with other travelers while walking down the narrow streets. It’s hard to get into restaurants and activities – you’ll be fighting for reservations. Many large cruise ships come in and day-visitors flood the city, making things even worse.
To avoid the crowds and enjoy more pleasant weather, the best time to visit is during the shoulder season (March, April, and November). To avoid the crowds and have some room to breathe, you have to visit in the off-season (December to February). For me, this is the only viable time to visit Venice.
Planning Your Itinerary
Now is when you should consider what you want to see and do in Venice. If you only have one day in Venice, it’s important to prioritize what you want to see. Some of the must-see attractions include the Rialto Bridge, St. Mark’s Square, and Doge’s Palace. You can also take a gondola ride through the canals or explore a local neighborhood like Cannaregio or Dorsoduro.
If you have two days in Venice, consider visiting St. Mark’s Basilica, the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, or the Venetian Ghetto. You can also take a day trip to nearby islands like Murano or Burano.
With three or more days in Venice, you can tackle the smaller sights, spend more time on Cicchetti crawls in the evenings, and take day trips to places like Verona or Lake Garda.
Exploring the Main Attractions
Venice is a city that’s bursting with iconic landmarks and attractions, and it can be overwhelming to decide what to see and do during your visit. Here are some of the main attractions that you should consider exploring during your time in Venice:
Cicchetti Crawl
In my opinion, you can’t visit Venice without doing a Cicchetti crawl or two. Cicchetti are the small sandwiches and snacks that are served in many of the small bars and restaurants in Venice. When you approach a cicchetti bar, you’ll know you’re in the right place when you see the rows and rows of artfully displayed foods behind the bar.
The best way to do it is to arrive around 4 or 5pm, find a bar serving cicchetti and order a few that look good to you, along with a drink. Often people will be standing around outside around barrels or tables eating and drinking. Join in. When you’re done, head to the next one!
Rialto Bridge
The Rialto Bridge is one of the most famous landmarks in Venice and is a must-visit attraction during your trip. This stunning stone bridge spans the Grand Canal and is lined with shops and vendors selling everything from souvenirs to fresh seafood. Take some time to explore the surrounding area and soak up the lively atmosphere.
Grand Canal
The Grand Canal is the main waterway that runs through Venice and is lined with historic buildings and palaces. One of the best ways to experience the Grand Canal is by taking a gondola ride, which will give you a unique perspective on the city and its architecture.
Doge’s Palace
The Doge’s Palace is a stunning Gothic palace that was once the residence of the Doge of Venice, the city’s ruler. Today, the palace houses a museum that showcases the history and culture of Venice, and is a must-visit attraction for history buffs.
Piazza San Marco
Piazza San Marco, also known as St. Mark’s Square, is the main public square in Venice and is home to some of the city’s most famous landmarks, including St. Mark’s Basilica and the Campanile. Take some time to explore the square and soak up the lively atmosphere.
Bridge of Sighs
The Bridge of Sighs is a historic bridge that connects the Doge’s Palace to the New Prison. Legend has it that the bridge got its name because it was the last view that prisoners would see before being taken to their cells. Today, the bridge is a popular attraction and is a must-visit for history buffs.
St. Mark’s Basilica
St. Mark’s Basilica is one of the most famous landmarks in Venice and is a stunning example of Byzantine architecture. The basilica is home to a number of beautiful mosaics and is a must-visit attraction for art and architecture enthusiasts.
Teatro La Fenice
Teatro La Fenice is one of the most famous opera houses in the world and is a must-visit attraction for music lovers. The theater has a rich history and has hosted some of the world’s most famous opera singers and musicians.
Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute
The Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute is a stunning Baroque church that sits at the mouth of the Grand Canal. The church is a must-visit attraction for art and architecture enthusiasts and is home to a number of beautiful artworks and frescoes.
Discovering the Islands of Venice
While Venice is famous for its canals, it is also home to several islands that are worth exploring. Each island has its own unique character and charm, and you can easily spend a day or two exploring them all.
You can get out to the islands on a vaporetto or private boat tour (which I recommend if you don’t mind spending the money).
Getting There
To take the vaporetto, go to the Fondamente Nove vaporetto stop in Venice. You can get there by taking a vaporetto from Piazzale Roma or the train station.
Look for the Vaporetto line 3 or 4.1 that goes to Murano, or 12 (or LN) that goes to Burano. You can check the schedule and buy tickets at the ticket booth or ticket machine at the stop.
Stand in the line for the Vaporetto line that you’ve chosen. The journey takes about 20 minutes to Murano and 45 minutes to an hour to get to Burano, depending on the route and stops.
Note that Vaporetto tickets are valid for a certain period (usually 75 minutes) and can be used for multiple rides, so you can also use them to go back to Venice later. Make sure to validate your ticket before boarding and keep it with you during the journey.
Burano
Burano is known for its brightly colored houses and lace-making tradition. It’s a great place to wander around, take pictures, and shop for souvenirs, and it’s a lot less crowded than Venice itself.
- Colored Houses: The iconic rainbow-hued houses of Burano are its main draw. Walking along the canals and capturing the kaleidoscope of colors is a must.
- Chiesa di San Martino: This leaning church is a fascinating sight and offers a peek into the island’s spiritual side. Its 16th-century wooden crucifix is noteworthy.
- Lace Making: You can’t visit Burano without diving into its lace-making history. Visit the Museo del Merletto for a deep dive into this intricate art form.
- Piazza Galuppi: Named after a famous composer from the island, this square is the main hub for locals and tourists alike. It’s a perfect place to take a break and soak in the atmosphere.
- Canal-side Dining: Grab a meal at one of the local restaurants overlooking the canal. Try the risotto de gò, a dish featuring the goby fish which is local to the area.
- Shopping: Browse through the local shops selling handcrafted lace products. Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s fascinating to watch the artisans at work.
Murano
Murano is famous for its glass-making industry. You can watch artisans at work and shop for beautiful glassware. You’ll want to make a reservation in advance to see the demo. If you want, you can even take a full-day private tour
When you get off the boat, head to the Museo del Vetro (museum of glass) which is very unique to Murano. Then head to the Basilica of Saint Mary and Saint Donatus, which is just a 2-minute walk away. It’s a beautiful church from the 7th century.
After that, walk to the Palazzo da Mula, which is a great example of Venetian Gothic architecture.
Torcello
Torcello is the oldest of the Venetian islands and was once a thriving center of trade and culture. Today, it’s a peaceful oasis with only a few residents. Visit the Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta, which dates back to the 7th century, and climb the bell tower for stunning views of the lagoon.
Day Trips from Venice
If you’re spending several days in Venice, you may want to venture out of the city and explore other nearby destinations. Here are some popular day trips from Venice:
Verona
Verona is a beautiful city that’s only a short train ride away from Venice. It’s most famous for being the setting of Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet,” but there’s much more to see and do here. Some of the top attractions include the Verona Arena, a Roman amphitheater that’s still used for concerts and operas today, and the Piazza delle Erbe, a picturesque square with colorful buildings and a lively market.
Treviso
Treviso is a charming town that’s often overlooked by tourists, but it’s well worth a visit. It’s known for its beautiful canals, historic buildings, and delicious food and wine. Some of the top things to see and do here include the Piazza dei Signori, a stunning square with a medieval palace and a clock tower, and the Museo Civico Luigi Bailo, a museum that showcases local art and history.
Milan
Milan is a bit further away from Venice, but it’s still doable as a day trip if you take a high-speed train. It’s one of Italy’s most cosmopolitan cities and is known for its fashion, art, and architecture. Some of the top attractions here include the Duomo di Milano, a stunning Gothic cathedral, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a luxurious shopping arcade, and the Pinacoteca di Brera, an art museum with a vast collection of Italian masterpieces.
Getting To and Around Venice
Arrival
If you’re arriving in Venice by train, the Santa Lucia train station is located in the heart of the city. From there, you can take a water taxi or water bus to your destination.
If you’re arriving by plane, the closest airport is Venice Marco Polo Airport. ATVO Express Bus, which takes about 20-25 minutes to reach Piazzale Roma, the main bus terminal in Venice. From there, you can take a vaporetto (water bus) or walk to your destination.
If you prefer a more luxurious and convenient option, you can take a water taxi from the airport to your hotel or any other destination in Venice. However, this is the most expensive option and can cost up to €100 or more.
Getting Around
Venice is a city of canals, so it’s no surprise that getting around by water is a popular option. One of the most convenient ways to explore the city is by vaporetto – a sort of water bus that stops at many prime locations along the canal and is less expensive than water taxis.
If you prefer to explore the city on foot, there are plenty of walking tours available. These tours can be a great way to learn about the history and culture of Venice while getting some exercise. If you’re only in Venice for two days, this is the way to go – you’ll see a lot in a short time.
Here are two that we recommend:
- Venice In a Day: Basilica San Marco, Doges Palace & Gondola ride
- Eat Like a Local: 3-hour Venice Small-Group Food Tasting Walking Tour
Where to Stay in Venice
If you want to stay in the heart of Venice, then you might choose San Marco. This area is home to some of the most iconic landmarks in Venice, such as St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace. Here, you will find plenty of high-end hotels, such as the Gritti Palace, which is known for its luxurious rooms and stunning canal views.
There are two main places that I recommend to stay. One is a hotel in St. Mark’s and one is a vacation rental near Rialto. Both are great for different reasons.
Ai Patrizi di Venezia | Read Reviews or Book a Stay If you’re staying for 3+ nights, I highly recommend this apartment. It’s in the perfect location, is incredibly comfortable and clean, and has a kitchenette. We sometimes prefer an apartment to a hotel so we’re not being bothered by housekeeping. This place is a gem.
Hotel Londra Palace | Read Reviews or Book a Stay If you’d rather stay in a hotel because you like the extra amenities, then Hotel Londra Palace is a great choice. It’s in a very good location, only 5 min walk from St. Mark’s Square, with free wifi and a restaurant. Some rooms have a balcony and an incredible view.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days are sufficient for exploring Venice?
The answer to this question depends on what you want to see and experience in Venice. However, most travelers agree that spending at least 2-3 days in Venice is necessary to explore the city’s main attractions, neighborhoods, and canals.
Is 3 days long enough to see Venice?
Yes, 3 days is a good amount of time to see and experience the best of Venice. With 3 days, you can explore the city’s iconic landmarks, museums, and churches, as well as take a gondola ride along the canals and visit the nearby islands of Murano and Burano.
When is the best time to visit Venice?
The best time to visit Venice is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April-May) and fall (September-November) when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. The summer months (June-August) are the busiest and most expensive, with temperatures often reaching 80°F (27°C) or higher. Winter (December-February) can be cold and damp, but it is also the least crowded and the best time to find deals on hotels and flights.
Is Venice walkable in a day?
Yes, Venice is walkable in a day, as it is a relatively compact city. You can easily explore the main attractions and landmarks by foot, including St. Mark’s Square, the Rialto Bridge, and the narrow winding streets and canals. Just be prepared for some crowds, especially in popular areas.
Be Prepared For Travel
Planning is the most important part of any successful trip. Do it the easy way:
🧳 Travel Packing List | ✔️ Why You Need Travel Insurance | ✈️ What to Do Before You Leave Home
- Find and book the best hotel (our favorite booking site is Expedia)
- Research flight options (our favorite tool is Skyscanner)
- Book a tour (we always use Viator to find the best tours)
- Rent a car through Discover Cars (they search the best deals for you!)
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Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.