Venice, Italy 7 Day Itinerary

Title: 7-Day Venice Itinerary: Exploring the Floating City

Day 1 - Arrival & St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco)

  • Arrive at Venice Marco Polo Airport or Venice Santa Lucia Train Station.

  • Check-in at your accommodation, suggestions include:

    • Hotel Cipriani - Luxury
    • Locanda Orseolo - Midrange
    • Olimpiaplus Venice Hostel - Budget

  • Visit St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco), the heart of Venice. See the iconic Doge’s Palace, Bell Tower, and Basilica di San Marco.

  • Evening meal: Caffè Florian or Harry’s Bar for authentic Venetian cuisine and cocktails.

Day 2 - Island Hopping (Murano, Burano, & Torcello)

  • Take a vaporetto (water bus) to explore the Venetian islands: Murano (glassblowing), Burano (colorful houses), and Torcello (early Christian mosaics).
  • Lunch: Trattoria da Romano on Burano for fresh seafood.

Day 3 - Rialto Market & Wander the Cannaregio District

  • Morning visit to the Rialto Market, one of Europe’s oldest markets.
  • Explore the charming Cannaregio district, including the Fondaco dei Tedeschi and the Jewish Ghetto.
  • Afternoon gondola ride along the Grand Canal.
  • Dinner: Osteria alla Tana del Leone for traditional Venetian dishes.

Day 4 - Art & Architecture (Gallerie dell’Accademia, Peggy Guggenheim Collection)

  • Spend the day admiring art at the Gallerie dell’Accademia and the Peggy Guggenheim Collection.
  • Evening stroll around Dorsoduro, exploring campi (squares) like Campo Santa Margherita.
  • Dinner: Osteria alla Bottega for Venetian-style tapas.

Day 5 - Lido Beach & San Giorgio Maggiore

  • Take a vaporetto to the Lido and spend the day relaxing on the beach.
  • Visit San Giorgio Maggiore, climb the bell tower for stunning city views.
  • Dinner: Al Muro for fresh seafood on the Lido.

Day 6 - Murano & Glassblowing Workshop

  • Morning visit to a glassblowing workshop in Murano (e.g., Barovier & Toso or Venini) to learn about this traditional craft.
  • Afternoon: Burano’s colorful houses and lace shops, followed by a lace-making demonstration.
  • Farewell dinner: Ai Due Portei for exquisite Venetian cuisine.

Day 7 - Departure

  • Spend your last hours exploring any missed sights or shopping for souvenirs in Venice.
  • Depart from Venice Marco Polo Airport or Venice Santa Lucia Train Station.

Things to Know:

  • Venice is a pedestrian and boat-only city, so walk or take vaporettos (water buses).
  • Be mindful of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas.
  • Many stores close during the afternoon, so plan your shopping accordingly.
  • Avoid peak tourist seasons for a more authentic Venetian experience.

Tips:

  • Get a 72-hour or 30-day vaporetto pass for unlimited rides.
  • Visit churches with appropriate dress (shoulders and knees covered).
  • Enjoy a Spritz, the local aperitivo, while watching the sunset over the Grand Canal.
  • Explore lesser-known areas like the Castello district for a more authentic Venetian experience.