Let’s make the most of your 2 full days in Venice with a well-balanced itinerary that lets you experience the essence of this unique city!
If it’s your first time, keep in mind that many visitors rush to check off the same two main spots: Piazza San Marco and Ponte di Rialto, which leads to overwhelming crowds and can leave you feeling frustrated.
While these landmarks are certainly stunning, consider checking the crowd situation before deciding how much time and energy you want to spend there.
Alternatively, you can focus on other ideas from our collection of 16 recommendations for a more relaxed and authentic Venetian experience.
Majestic waterway, lined with a dazzling array of palaces.
Only here, in this unique place in the world, can you glide alongside a vibrant array of boats while admiring some of the most exquisite palaces and architecture.
Discover Canal GrandeWith a water bus pass, you can explore Venice and its surroundings cost-effectively, avoiding the hassle of constantly buying individual 75' tickets.
Picture yourself enjoying grand views from the water of the entire Canal Grande (line #1) and then taking in the breathtaking aerial vistas from the belltower of San Giorgio Maggiore (reachable with line #2).
Afterwards, head to the northern entrance of the Arsenale with line #4.1 and even travel further to Murano.
All in the same day, for only €25.
Imposing Gothic church housing art treasures and monumental mausoleums.
Escape the claustrophobia of crowds and narrow alleys into this expansive spiritual open space filled with art.
Discover Basilica dei Frari
Opulent confraternity building adorned with a multitude of darkly dramatic works by Tintoretto.
Its breathtaking grand interiors showcase some of the most dramatic artworks in Venice.
Discover Scuola di San RoccoListen to an uplifting rendition of Vivaldi's beloved 'Four Seasons', performed not in a concert hall, but in the intimate settings of the churches of San Vidal or Chiesa della Pieta (Vivaldi Church) (also known as the Vivaldi Church).
Or step back into Venice's golden era with baroque classics and operatic arias, featuring performers in traditional Venetian costumes.
Experience Italian opera like never before as you move from room to room with the performers, soaking up the drama of epics like 'La Traviata' and 'Rigoletto' in the intimate and historically elegant setting of a 15th-century palace on the Canal Grande.
Church concealing a vast ceiling painting that spans the heavens above.
The breathtaking ceiling, with its vibrant celestial scene and mesmerizing illusion of depth, will certainly leave you in awe.
Discover San Pantalon
Gothic-Renaissance church with a mysterious flooded crypt.
While there is much to appreciate in the ornate decoration and art, it is the crypt that truly sets this place of worship apart.
Discover San Zaccaria
Monumental waterfront along the San Marco basin.
Stroll next to the glittering water on one of the most beloved promenades, which is particularly charming close to sunset.
Discover Riva degli SchiavoniThere are over 100 islands in the lagoon, but the most famous ones are Murano, Burano, and Torcello.
Boat tours take you to all three islands in just a few hours, which is a great idea if you have limited time.
Murano has been the heart of Venice’s renowned glass-making industry since 1291.
Burano is distinguished by its brightly painted houses and is renowned for its traditional lace artisans.
Torcello is considered the founding island from which Venice was populated.
Museum showcasing the extravagance of 18th-century Venetian life, set within a grand palace.
Step back in time to Venice's Age of Decadence with a visit to this opulent residence, one of the few open to the public.
Discover Ca' RezzonicoA gondola ride captures timeless romance and can be a delightful experience.
Price haggling is still common, although Venice has fixed tariffs for gondola rides starting at €90 for 30min (as of 2024).
Avoid this hassle by pre-booking your gondola ride online.
You will get a better price if you're willing to share the gondola with other travelers.
Grand square and gathering place, the social, religious and political center of Venice.
There's a reason why most one-day travelers come just here. Piazza San Marco is indeed truly impressive. But don't let that deter you from discovering the rest of Venice's treasures.
Discover Piazza San Marco
Basilica bell tower overlooking the square, tallest structure in Venice.
Enjoy spectacular aerial vistas over Venice and, on clear days, even the Alps, with effortless access by elevator.
Discover Campanile di San Marco
Grandiose cathedral with a gilded interior, the center of religious power in Venice.
The so-called Church of Gold will stir overwhelming emotions with its evocative mosaics, rich history and projected power, making it deeply memorable. It is a tribute not just to the glory of God but also to the glory of Venice.
Discover Basilica di San Marco
The first bridge over the Grand Canal, now one of Venice's most iconic landmarks.
You'll never get enough of witnessing the captivating bustle at Venice's acclaimed 'true heart'.
Discover Rialto Bridge
Ornate palace where the city's political leader once resided.
Behind the elegant facade, majestic chambers coexist with a darker side, creating a fascinating duality within the palace's grandeur.
Discover Palazzo DucaleIf you plan to visit Palazzo Ducale, it's a good idea to buy your ticket in advance.
The ticket also includes access to Museo Correr.
