Venice 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Venice

  • Morning:

    • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Caffè Florian, one of the oldest cafés in Venice, located in Piazza San Marco.
    • Visit the iconic St. Mark's Basilica and its famous Doge's Palace. Remember to dress appropriately (shoulders and knees covered) as they enforce a strict dress code.
    • Take a stroll around Piazza San Marco, admiring the beautiful architecture, including the Clocktower (Torre dell’Orologio) and the Procuratie.

  • Afternoon:

    • Cross the Rialto Bridge to explore the Rialto Market and the charming streets of the Cannaregio district.
    • Visit the Jewish Ghetto, one of the oldest in Europe, and learn about its history at the Museo Ebraico di Venezia.
    • Enjoy a traditional Venetian lunch at Trattoria da Remigio or Osteria alle Testiere.

  • Evening:

    • Take a romantic gondola ride through the canals of Venice. Remember to negotiate the price before you board.
    • Have dinner at Osteria al Bacareto, located in the Dorsoduro district, known for its delicious seafood dishes.

Day 2: Islands and Art

  • Morning:

    • Catch a vaporetto (water bus) to the island of Murano, famous for its glassmaking. Visit Museo Vetrario di Murano to learn about this ancient craft.
    • Head to the neighboring island of Burano, known for its colorful houses and lace-making. Don’t forget to try some Bussola, a traditional Burano cookie!

  • Afternoon:

    • Return to Venice and visit the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, showcasing modern and contemporary art.
    • Explore the Dorsoduro neighborhood, including the beautiful Chiesa di Santa Maria della Salute.
    • Have a relaxed dinner at Osteria Alla Sosta del Doge or Ae Oleari.

Day 3: Hidden Venice and Sunset

  • Morning:

    • Visit the lesser-known but equally beautiful districts of Castello and Santa Croce. Explore the narrow alleys, local markets, and charming squares.
    • Stop by Casa dei Tre Oci for a coffee and enjoy the view over the Grand Canal.

  • Afternoon:

    • Take a restorative lunch at Al Mercante, a cozy eatery in the Castello district.
    • Visit the impressive San Giorgio Maggiore Church and climb its bell tower for a panoramic view of Venice.

  • Evening:

    • Spend your last evening strolling along the Grand Canal, watching the sunset over Rialto Bridge.
    • Have a farewell dinner at La Zucca, known for its innovative Venetian cuisine.

Things to Know:

  1. Venice can be quite expensive, especially during peak season (June-August). Budget accordingly.
  2. Venice is primarily a pedestrian city, but you’ll also need to use the vaporetto for island hopping. Buy a travel card for unlimited journeys within a 72-hour period.
  3. Be mindful of pickpockets in crowded areas, especially around St. Mark’s Square and Rialto Bridge.
  4. Venice is sinking and battling flooding; check the tide schedule to avoid getting stranded during high water (acqua alta).
  5. Respect the city - don’t feed the pigeons in St. Mark’s Square, and be considerate of locals when taking photos.

Where to Stay:

  • Hotel Rialto or Hotel Ca' Sagredo offer historic charm and a convenient location.
  • For budget travelers, consider Ostello Santa Fosca or Hostel-BnB Venice Mestre.