Venice 2 Days: First Timers Will Fall In Love!

Last Updated on October 1, 2024 by Audrey

Want to know the best way to spend 2 days in Venice? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered!

Venice is hands-down my favorite city in Europe. It is effortlessly romantic with beautiful waterways and narrow alleyways you get lost in… there is no city like this on Earth! It is so iconic and timeless that other cities try to duplicate its magic, without success. The city is safe, the people are kind, the food is delicious, and it is the most incredible experience to walk along the canals. I’ll show you how to maximize your Venice experience in 2 short days.

If you’re reading this, I hope you’ve already secured your tickets to experience the magic of this city firsthand for yourself. Even if you only have a few days to spare, it is worth it! Who knows how long this city will remain on the water? This is a city that people must visit at least once in their lifetime.

This 2-day Venice itinerary assumes you’ve checked in the night before and have 2 full days to explore. If you’re arriving a bit later, consider rescheduling your tours for later in the day. Anyhow, I hope you’re ready to have the best trip in Venice!

Venice 2 Days Itinerary: Day 1

Start your day off by visiting St. Marks Square (Piazza San Marco) early in the morning, before the crowds come. It provides a beautiful view of the grand St. Marks Basilica (Basilica di San Marco) and Doge Palace (Palazzo Ducale) on each side.

Visit Doge Palace

After you get to snap a picture or two of the square, I recommend heading over to Doge Palace for a guided tour.

Before I get too far, I’d like to give you a little info on Venice. Before Venice became the city that we all know and love today, it was actually a sovereign state called the Venetian Republic and was ruled by the Doge.

The Doge, elected by members of the Great Council, was the oldest and highest position obtainable in the government. He ruled for life, and a new Doge could only be elected after the prior passed away.

While in power, the Doge would reside and work at Doge Palace. However, not only was the Palace a working government office and residence of the Doge, but it was also used to host prisoners of Venice! It is such a cool place to visit and learn about Venice’s enriching history.

Personally, I recommend you choose Secret Itineraries tour, which includes access to the secret prison and torture rooms! This is the tour I took when I visited Doge Palace and absolutely loved it.

Secret Itineraries Tour

If you’re interested in seeing the wicked behind-the-scenes of the Venetian government body, you have two options.

The first option is to purchase the Secret Itineraries tour directly from the museum itself for 32 euros, which will last around an hour and 20 minutes. You get a tour of the dungeon and then will be released into the front of the Palace afterwards.

The second option is to splurge a little bit for a more thorough tour that is 2.5 hours and includes the main Doge Palace as well as skip-the-line access to St. Marks Basilica.

Whatever you decide, make sure it includes the dungeon portion! It was my favorite tour in Europe (and I went on many tours that trip).

My Secret Itineraries Tour Experience

The tour guide was very easy to understand, funny, and really had a passion for the tour. Sometimes the tour guides would have a strong accent so I would have trouble understanding, but had no issue with this guide.

We got to see the dungeon area of the Doge, and where the torture and questioning of criminals played out.

The tour loosely followed Giacamo Casanova, a famous womanizer, after he got arrested by the Venetian government for blasphemous thinking against the holy religion. She showed us all the different rooms Casanova stayed in during his imprisonment; and how he made his escape by simply walking out the front door.

The regular Doge Palace is fancy and grand, so by going to the dungeon you get to see a new perspective to the regular government offices and glamorous paintings!

Which Tour to Choose?

If you choose the official museum tour, you get to tour the Doge Palace itself for free at your leisure after the dungeon.

If you choose the Get-Your-Guide tour, you will also be guided through the main part of the Doge after the dungeon, and will get to visit the Basilica at the end. This tour would be more comprehensive, as the regular Doge Palace is not explained in the museum tour.

After the dungeon tour, I leisurely toured the front of the Palace but didn’t get any description of the meaning behind the paintings or items on display. I wish I had gotten a tour of the regular Doge Palace as well, because there are countless paintings showing incredible battle scenes that I never got to understand.

Note: The Secret Itineraries tour will include stairs and there is no AC in the prison. The doorways can be a little short and dark, so be aware that it can be a little cramped and uncomfortable at times, especially if you are visiting in the summer. It may not be suitable for those who have mobility issues.

Admire St. Marks Basilica

When you finish Doge Palace, St. Mark’s Basilica is located right next door. St. Mark’s Basilica (Basilica di San Marco) is well known to be Venice’s main and most grand cathedral, dedicated to Saint Mark the Evangelist, the patron saint of Venice.

A combination of many styles, including Gothic, Greek, and Byzantine make up this large structure.

Featuring mosaics made of REAL gold, the structure is a beautiful display of Venetian wealth and religious devotion. It holds historical significance as it represented the independent Venetian Republic at the time.

While you’re visiting the Basilica, make sure to save time for stopping by the Pala d’Oro, a Byzantine alter screen of gold that is literally littered with valuable gems, including pearls, emeralds, rubies, and more. It screams luxury and was a great symbol of pride for the Venetian Republic, which was a relatively small country in comparison to its wealth.

It is an extra 5 euros go up close to the altar, but it is well worth the money.

While entry to St. Mark’s Basilica is only 3 euros, entrance lines can get very crowded and long, so it is recommended to purchase a guided tour to skip waiting in line. Although it is usually open from 9:30 am to 5:15 pm, I recommend to check the official website before visiting to ensure it will be open to the public.

Go up Saint Mark’s Campanile 

When you arrived at St. Mark’s Square, I’m sure you got a good look at the imposing bell tower (Campanile di San Marco). Standing 99 meters high, it has been used as a lighthouse, watchtower, and was even used by Galileo as an observatory when he demonstrated his invention of the telescope.

You can actually purchase entry to go up in the bell tower for 10 euros, and it’s open from 9 am-9 pm every day depending on the weather. The best thing about it is that when the original campanile collapsed back in 1902, it was rebuilt to include an elevator! So visitors can enjoy it even if they have mobility issues.

Pass the Bridge of Sighs

As you leave the Square, make sure to pass the Bridge of Sighs (Ponte dei Sospiri).

You may have already viewed it from the inside if you took a guided tour of Doge Palace.

This beautiful white stone bridge connects Doge Palace to a prison on the other side, and the Bridge takes its name from the sighs prisoners would let out as they saw their last glimpse of Venice as they headed into the dungeon.

✔️ Did you know? It is now said that if a couple takes a gondola along the Rio di Palazzo and kisses under the Bridge of Sighs, they’ll have eternally lasting love.

Eat Soft Shelled Crab at Ristorante Da Ivo

After visiting the attractions, check out Ristorante Da Ivo if you enjoy seafood and want to try some delicious soft-shelled spider crab (a restaurant specialty!). Established in 1976, this restaurant is located right next to the canal, so it’s easily accessible by taxi boats or gondolas.

In fact, customers can even exit the restaurant via a gondola!

Aside from their spider crab, they serve all sorts of varieties of seafood and meat.

The atmosphere was pretty casual and quiet, and the service was great. More importantly, all of the dishes that we ordered were delicious! I know I said it already, but that soft-shelled crab was really good…

Anyway, if you’d like to come here, keep in mind that reservations are required.

Walk the Grand Canal

Now that you have some food in you, take some time getting lost in the crowd and walk along the Grand Canal. This is the main highway for the city and passes directly through the center of Venice, and has a lot to see and do.

There are numerous shops, restaurants, and bustling markets in the Grand Canal that you’ll enjoy browsing through. If you didn’t go to Ristorante Da Ivo, you could stop to take a lunch break here, or look and see what the shops have to offer.

Either way, it’s a nice opportunity to experience the heart of Venice!

View the Rialto Bridge

As you walk along the Grand Canal, there is no doubt that you will see and cross the Rialto Bridge along your journey.

It is the oldest and most well-known bridge in Venice, as it used to be the only way to cross the Grand Canal until the 19th century!

It is a large and beautiful bridge, an astounding architectural feat from the Renaissance era!

Catch a rooftop view of Venice

You can catch a beautiful view of the Grand Canal on this bridge, especially at sunset. However, keep in mind that the bridge is constantly busy with tourists, so you’ll share that space with countless other people who are also crammed on the bridge with their cameras at the same time.

If you have the opportunity, there is a great rooftop terrace called the Fondaco Terrace located just behind the Rialto Bridge that will give you a spectacular view of the city and the Grand Canal.

If you get the chance to visit at sunset, the view will be absolutely incredible.

The Fondaco Rooftop Terrace (T Fondaco dei Tedeschi) is absolutely free to visit, but you have to sign up for a 15-minute time slot first.

It will look just like you are on the Rialto Bridge, but is much more peaceful and accessible to get the perfect picture.

Timeslots open a month in advance, and the terrance is accessible from 10:15-6:00 pm. You can reserve your timeslot on the official website, free of charge. Make sure to come a bit earlier than sunset to get the best view!

Sample some Delicious Gelato

When in Italy, trying gelato is a must. My absolute favorite gelato shop in Venice is Gelatoteca Suso, hands down!

We were in Venice for 2 days and got Suso 3 times. That has to tell you something! They have a large variety of flavors, you can check them out online before you pay them a visit here.

There were two locations in Venice when I went, and both had a line at all times of the day, but you can’t skip out on this one. We waited around 30 minutes, but if you go during the later hours the line is much shorter.

Boat the Venice Canals

Spending some time exploring the city via the canals is an absolute must. Venice’s waterways are a part of what makes this city so special, after all.

There are two main ways that you can explore the waterways.

The cheapest is to hop on a public water bus, the #1 Vaporetto. The second way is to take a guided tour where you will learn more details about the city from an esteemed guide.

No. 1 Vaporetto (Water Bus)

Finish off your first day in Venice by taking the ACTV No. 1 Vaporetto, which takes you along a scenic (and relatively cheap!) boat tour on the Grand Canal.

The Linea 1 Vaporetto runs all along the Grand Canal, stopping at 21 different stations over a 1-hour duration. For 9.5 euros, you’ll see amazing views of Rialto Bridge, Piazza San Marco, and the Lido di Venezia, Venice’s beach resort.

You’ll get to view the whole city in a relatively short amount of time, as the Vaporetto passes through more than 170 buildings along its route.

The best times to hop on are before sunset or at nighttime. Keep in mind though that if you board the bus during sunset, it may be very busy with other tourists who are trying to get the same view. At nighttime is perfect, when you can see beautiful chandeliers and interior aspects of the buildings easily from the water. 

How to purchase a ticket for the Vaporetto

To purchase a ticket, you can grab either a single ticket or a 7-day pass from an ACTV ticket counter/Venezia Unica. You can also grab a ticket from other ACTV vendors like a newsstand, or tobacco shop.

Once you’ve bought a ticket, look for the Vaporetto platform with the number 1. There will be an electronic ticket reader at the boat stop, where you can validate your ticket before hopping onto the water bus.

If you think you will be using the Vaporetto frequently during your trip, or if you intend to hop on and off many times, you can consider buying an ACTV Travel Pass, which will allow you to make frequent stops.

However, it is fairly easy to walk around the city and I found myself usually walking rather than moving on the water. I think the pass would be beneficial for those who want to explore other cities, like Murano and Burano. 

Take a Guided Tour of the Canals

If you’d like, there are several other options to tour Venice via the water. I recommend this boat tour of the Grand Canal, because you’ll have your own personal tour guide who will show you all of Venice’s top attractions in the comfort of a private motorboat.

If you’re the more adventurous type and don’t mind getting a little wet, you could choose this highly rated kayaking tour instead! With a kayak, you’ll be able to explore parts of the city that many visitors don’t ever see.

I think the next time I visit the city, I’d opt for a kayak tour because it’s a fun and interactive way to explore the water.

👉 Check out this motorboat tour and this kayak tour to explore Venice’s canals!

Venice 2 Days Itinerary: Day 2

You have some options for your second (and last!) day in this beautiful city.

If you are feeling ambitious, you could spend the first half of your day island hopping to Murano and Burano to get the most value out of your short trip to Venice. On the other hand, you could spend your last hours in the city exploring the hidden gems of Venice. I can’t tell you which option would be better, as it really depends on what kind of traveler you are.

If you don’t think you will return to Venice and want to see all its must-see places, then go to its adjacent islands. But if you are more of a relaxed traveler and want to soak up Venice at your leisure, perhaps opt to stay in the city.

I chose to include Murano and Burano on the second day of your itinerary, but by all means feel free to skip these islands and spend more time in Venice if you prefer.

Have Breakfast at Caffè Florian

If you have time in the morning, you might want to check out Caffè Florian. Established in 1720 (!), this cafe is the oldest in Venice, and one of the oldest in Europe overall.

Well known for its elegant interior decor and historical ambiance, it has stood through the rise and fall of the Venetian Republic and has been a gathering place for artists, celebrities, and prominent figures throughout history.

It is very popular among tourists and locals, and while it is pretty expensive (think $11 for a coffee), it provides a wonderful cultural experience in the heart of Venice. If you’re interested in Venetian history and want the photo op, then I think it’s worth the visit.

Keep in mind they do not take reservations unless you are a party of 10 or more.

Explore Murano and Burano

After grabbing a quick breakfast, it’s time to explore the islands.

Murano and Burano are two islands extremely close to Venice. Murano is well-known for its glass-making. In fact, most of the beautiful glass figures you see in the shops come from Murano! Meanwhile, Burano is filled with picturesque boldly colorful houses that you have probably seen online before.

Most tours going to Murano and Burano last between 4-6 hours, so it will take up the majority of your morning. You’ll board a boat and traverse the Venetian Lagoon to see two amazing islands, with their own special characteristics!

Murano

The first stop will be Murano, famous for its glass-blowing traditions. You can stop by a glass-blowing factory to see these artisans actively working and creating these expertly crafted pieces!

If you’re visiting on your own without a tour, you may have time to stop by Museo Del Vetro, the Venice Glass Museum.

When you come here, there are many opportunities to choose an authentic souvenir to remember Venice by. My mom bought a beautiful green-purple glass heart necklace, and it is a great reminder of the time we spent together here.

Burano

After an hour or two at Murano, you’ll head on over to Burano to enjoy its vibrant, pastel-colored houses. It is a beautiful place to walk through and take some stunning pictures. Burano is also well-known for its intricate lacework, so you’ll find some incredible designs.

After enjoying a couple of hours at the two islands, head back to Venice to explore a different side of the city.

👉 You can opt for either a group tour to Murano and Burano with a glass factory visit, or a private tour to fully hear about the islands history and culture!

Enjoy Lunch on the Water at Ristorante Florida Venezia

After arriving back in Venice, stop at Ristorante Florida Venezia for lunch.

This restaurant serves typical Italian dishes, with a stunning view of the Rialto Bridge. They have two locations, located near each other on the Grand Canal and the Rialto Bridge. It is outdoor seating, so it’s the perfect place to enjoy a meal and people-watch as gondolas pass by the canal.

We had made a reservation online prior to coming, but the website doesn’t explicitly say that you have to make a reservation first.

Regarding the food, I really enjoyed their squid ink spaghetti. We also ordered their seafood platter (a mix of seafood) and clam pizza. All were delicious! Customers can even see and choose their own fish if they’d like.

Walk to Cannaregio the Jewish Quarter

After you return to Venice, head over to the Cannaregio district, either by walking or taking the water bus to S. Marcuola Casino. Cannaregio is known as the quieter side of Venice, providing an authentic Venetian atmosphere.

Honestly, there is so much to do here that you could spend the whole day here if you wanted to!

You can explore the narrow streets, and take pictures without groups of tourists around. You can stop by the Merchant of Venice, a Venetian master perfume house, located on the Strada Nuova. Take time to visit the Jewish Quarter (Ghetto Vecchio), created back in the 16th century. You could also look at the Ca d’Oro Museum, an amazingly preserved example of Venetian Gothic architecture.

A walking tour is a great way to familiarize yourself with this large neighborhood and immerse yourself in Venetian art and architecture.

Enjoy Apertivo in Cannaregio

After you’ve had enough sightseeing, have a seat outside and enjoy an apertivo (pre-dinner drink) and cicchetti as an afternoon snack! It is customary to go to a bàcari (local bar) to socialize and unwind before dinner.

Italians enjoy a late dinner, so bàcari hours are usually from 6 pm to 9 pm! Some good bàcari spots in Cannaregio are Cà D’Oro alla, which serves delicious polpette (pork meatballs), or La Cantina, a local favorite that features creative dishes with fresh ingredients.

👉 Check out this extremely popular Cannaregio food-tasting tour that features cicchetti and wine!

Take a Sunset Gondola Ride

I’m always a fan of saving the best for last, and a visit to Venice for the first time would be amiss without a sunset gondola ride! Yes, it is a little touristy, but I think everyone should experience it at least once.

I went on a sunset gondola ride with my family on our last day in the city. It was a calm, fun experience on its own, and being able to share it with my family made it a wonderful memory. We got some really nice photos too!

Where can I get a gondola ride?

We went to the main dock at San Marco and arranged a ride using the flat traditional fee of €80. I recommend getting a ride from there rather than at some random canal in the city, to reduce the chances of getting ripped off.

Some say that some gondoliers will try to upcharge you, but I had a very straightforward transaction (no haggling involved)!

Regardless, it would be helpful to remember that the official price of a 30 minute gondola ride is €80, and that is mandated by the government. After 7 pm, rates increase to €100. However, most gondoliers only take cash, so bring exact change. The tip is already added to the official price, so don’t feel obligated to tip unless you want to.

Most gondolas can fit up to 6 people, and my group of 5 were able to fit easily!

Even though it was sunset, it was too cloudy to really see any color changes in the sky, but that didn’t take away from our ride at all. Wandering the calm canals aboard a traditional Venetian gondola feels so different than a tour or water bus, and feels romantic and relaxing.

We saw all the iconic landmarks that we had visited during the last 2 days, and our gondola guy (haha, just kidding) pointed out some historical sites we hadn’t heard about. There was no singing (I don’t think most gondola rides have singing anymore), instead, we had pleasant conversations with each other and our boatman. He told us that he was a third-generation gondolier, starting with his grandfather!

Regardless of when you decide to go, do not miss out on this one! A gondola ride in Venice will be an unforgettable moment in your trip to this extraordinary city.

How much does a gondola ride cost?

Officially, a gondola ride with a maximum of 6 people costs…

---

Should I book a gondola ride in advance?

You definitely can book online in advance, if you have a special event in mind or want to take a ride during peak hours (day and early evening), but it is absolutely not necessary. We went at sunset and didn’t really see anyone else on the route that our gondolier took us on.

Enjoy a 12-course tasting menu at Restaurant Rosa Rossa

To end your trip with a bang, I recommend you enjoy a tasting course at Ristorante Rosa Rossa. Meaning Red Rose in English, this hidden gem was our absolute FAVORITE restaurant in Italy!

Located in San Marco, Rosa Rossa is family-run, established in 1985, and serves delicious Venetian cuisine with local seasonal ingredients. The head chef was the son of the owner, and he presented us with every course and explained what it was and what ingredients were used. There are not many restaurants where the head chef will present you with each dish! It was so cool getting to meet him and learning about his family.

The restaurant itself has a modern, quiet atmosphere, it was busy but not loud. The dishes consisted of seafood, pasta, and different sorts of meats. You can also opt out of the tasting menu and order a traditional pasta or pizza instead, but I highly recommend the tasting menu for the full experience. You’ll get to sample almost everything on the regular menu, and some off-menu creations!

The food was absolutely amazing, the service was outstanding, and knowing that it was family-owned and was truly representing the culture of Venice made the experience even better. I absolutely, wholeheartedly encourage you to check them out!

---

Sip a Drink at Bar Longhi

Before your 2 days in Venice are over, stop by Bar Longhi for a drink with an absolutely breathtaking view of the canals to mark the end of your Venice trip. Located in the Gritti Palace Hotel, this bar is well known for being right on the Grand Canal and having up close views of the gondolas passing by.

Be aware though, that the drinks are as expensive as the views are beautiful. A coffee will run you 10, and a cocktail is closer to 25. But whether it’s worth the great ambiance and location is your choice to determine!

Another possible option could be Skyline, with a great view overlooking the city. However, Skyline requires a water taxi in order to get to it, as it’s located away from the main city. If you have the time, the panoramic views are worth it. Keep in mind that both options are a bit pricey, though.

⭐ Recommended bars: Bar Longhi, Skyline

---

Map of Venice 2-day itinerary

Got More than 2 days in Venice?

If you were blessed to extend your stay for more than 2 days, I’ve added some extra attractions that you might want to visit!

Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo (San Marco)

The Scala Contarini del Bolovo is a hidden gem in Venice, with a beautiful spiral staircase with intricate arches. Located in a quiet corner away from the main attractions, it is a great option to visit if you’d like to experience a piece of Venice’s history without the usual crowds.

Originally built for the Contarini family, a prominent noble family in Venice back in the 15th century, visitors can walk up the staircase to see panoramic views of the city! In total, it is about 4 flights of stairs and 80 steps, leading to the terrace.

---

Libreria Acqua Alta bookstore (Castello)

You may have heard of this unique bookstore in Venice before. Libreria Acqua Alta is famous for the way its books are stored in this flood-prone city, as well as its picturesque decor.

A must-visit destination for book lovers and travelers alike, when you step into this bookstore, you’ll be treated by towering stacks of books stored in bathtubs, and even a gondola! The eclectic use of storage creates a fun atmosphere in this peculiar bookstore. You’ll get a one-of-a-kind shopping experience, feeling almost like you’re wandering in a treasure room of books.

Did I mention that cats like to hang out there time to time as well?

Definitely check this one out, at least for a memorable picture or experience, even if you aren’t interested in buying a book.

Basilica dei Frari (San Polo)

If you enjoy admiring the beautiful architecture of the city’s churches, you might want to check out Basilica Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari, the largest church in Venice.

Although plain looking on the inside, the interior features amazing gothic architecture, with beautiful stained glass windows and paintings, most notably the Assumption of the Virgin (Assunzione della Vergine) and Pesaro Madonna (Madonna di Ca’Pesaro), both painted by Titian in the 15th century.

There is also a large tomb built like a pyramid, decorated with intricate sculptures dedicated to Antonio Canova, an 18th-century Italian sculptor. Overall, if architecture or art interests you, it’s well worth visiting!

Santa Maria della salute Basilica (Dorsoduro)

If you cross the Grand Canal, you can visit Dorsoduro. This district is the city’s university district and is lined with eateries, vintage fashion boutiques, as well as renowned art collections. It is also where the Santa Maria della Salute church is, commonly known as the Salute.

You probably have already seen this church while on a Vaporetto or gondola weaving across the Grand Canal, as this church is located right at the water!

Inside, there are beautiful artworks, and the church itself has beautiful Venetian Baroque architecture. If you look behind the altar, you’ll notice some large bones. Apparently, these bones belonged to a fierce dragon who was killed by a saint, St. Donatus!

Gallerie dell’Accademia (Dorsoduro)

The Gallerie dell’Accademia houses an impressive collection of pre-19th-century Venetian art. You can enjoy masterpieces by world-famous artists such as Titian, Tintoretto, Veronese, and Bellini, who demonstrated beautiful works of the Venetian Renaissance and Baroque periods.

In each piece, visitors will be guided through a story of Venetian life, culture, and creativity, inviting you to connect with the city’s rich artistic heritage on a profound level. If you are an art lover like myself, this gallery provides a chance to explore the beauty of Venetian art and culture in one of the city’s most iconic cultural institutions!

Peggy Guggenheim (Dorsoduro)

The Peggy Guggenheim Museum has a vast collection of contemporary European and North American art of the twentieth century, from Peggy Guggenheim’s personal collection.

Housed in the 17th-century Palazzo Venier dei Loni right on the Grand Canal, this building was Peggy Guggenheim’s personal residence until her death and featured her own personal collection.

You’ll get to enjoy masterpieces from famous artists such as Picasso, Jackson Pollock, and Andy Warhol, just to name a few.

In addition, there is a beautiful garden further decorated with sculpture art, called the Nesher Sculpture Garden.

If you’re an art lover or want to enjoy a garden stroll away from the typical tourist crowds, spend a few hours visiting this art collector’s personal home. I would allow at least an hour minimum to visit the inside exhibits and another hour for the garden.

Are 2 Days in Venice enough?

Ideally, most people can visit all the main attractions in Venice in 2-3 days, so you definitely can, and should, fit Venice into your Europe trip, even with a tight itinerary.

I think 3 days is perfect for exploring Venice and the adjacent islands next to it. However, if you are graced with more time to enjoy Venice, why not? Spend more time enjoying the canals, go on a sunset gondola ride or two, inhale the delicious food, and soak in the relaxing atmosphere.

Honestly, 2 days in Venice didn’t feel like enough. I wish I could have spent another day or two here.

After 2 days I was satisfied with seeing all the major highlights, but I was already attached to the city. I would love to spend some time living here in the future. It is different from the hustle and bustle of Rome. The people feel more carefree (which I guess is a natural consequence when commuting is pretty much limited to water or walking for most of the area), and the streets feel so safe.

How to get to Venice

Get to Venice By plane

There are two airports in Venice. The international Marco Polo Airport (VCE) is bigger and caters to the bigger airlines, while the smaller Treviso airport caters to budget airlines. After our trip to Rome, we flew into the Marco Polo airport, which is 13 km from Venice.

To actually get to Venice from the airport, you will have to either take a bus, car, or travel on the water.

A taxi or car is the fastest, being about 15 minutes, while a land bus will take 25 minutes.

If you want to travel on the water, a water bus is another affordable option (15 euros one way). A private water taxi will probably provide the most enjoyable experience but will run you around 100-150 euros per group.

Taking a Water Bus (Alilaguna) to Venice

When I visited, we took a water bus (Alilaguna) to the city, to experience traveling on the water.

Upon arriving to the airport, to get to the water bus or taxi area you will have to walk around 10 minutes through the airport. You will see large signs and a line of people lining up for water buses or taxis. It’s probably the most common way to arrive at the city.

While this is a longer commute and took about an hour, it was fun starting off our visit already on the water. The ride itself was very organized and relaxing. I fell asleep for a little bit to the gentle rocking of the waves.

Get to Venice By Train

If you are commuting to Venice from another city and will not be stopping at the airport, train is a viable option. Venice’s train station is called the Santa Lucia Train Station (Stazione di Venezia Santa Lucia) and is right on the Grand Canal.

If you are coming from Marco Polo (VCE) I would not take the train. You would have to take a bus from the airport to even reach the train station.

Get to Venice By bus

If you’re planning to hop on a bus to Venice from another city in Italy, get off at the Venice Mestre bus station. You will get dropped off in the mainland, in the city of Mestre, and will have to hop onto a 10-minute train headed for Venice.

Getting around in Venice

Venice is pretty small. If you really wanted to, you could cross the entire city in an hour. The main attractions are all located close to the town square and Rialto bridge.

The easiest way to get around Venice is either walking or taking the water bus (Vaporetto). Here is the water bus map route if you need it.

There will eventually come a point where you will need to transverse by foot. There are many stairs around the city, so choose a backpack over a wheeled bag and pack light if you can.

When I would route directions, I would find that some routes are accessed in a kind of roundabout manner since a straightforward path is sometimes blocked off by a canal. It would be best to leave extra time when traveling to your next destination. After all, these beautiful waterways make up the charm of this city!

Venice 2 Days: Where to stay

Since you are only able to stay in Venice for 2 days, I highly recommend that you pick lodging in San Marco. The main reason is that you will be in the heart of the city. You will be able to walk to the main iconic attractions like St. Mark’s Square, St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, and the Bridge of Sighs very easily.

Location is everything, and staying in San Marco will cut down your commuting time, especially with only 2 days to spend in Venice.

Additionally, you’ll find that most shops, restaurants, cafes, and gelaterias are located in this neighborhood. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to experience Venetian cuisine and culture. You’ll get the most value out of staying in this area.

Finally, San Marco is a hub for transportation, and you’ll have easy access to water taxis and vaporettos (water buses). This will allow you to explore other parts of Venice and nearby islands like Murano and Burano easily.

Where I stayed in Venice

I stayed in a mid-priced apartment called San Marco Schiavoni Apartments, located in a prime location.

I lost my luggage flying into Italy. When the baggage carrier dropped it off at the apartment (after taking a water taxi into the city), I was able to quickly stop by the apartment right after my tour of Doge Palace to bring my luggage inside!

Located right above a restaurant and pastry store, this apartment had big rooms and lots of amenities. It’s perfect for a group of 4-5 people! The only downside is that you do have to walk up a set of stairs to enter the apartment. If that doesn’t bother you, I recommend it.

BEST Recommendations of Where to Stay in Venice

Here are my personal recommendations on where to stay in Venice. They are all situated in San Marco, near the city center for ease of transportation and convenience.

---

Where to eat?

If you didn’t get to catch them while reading my 2-day Venice itinerary, here are my top restaurant recommendations!

In general, I recommend trying out the regional foods special to Venice to elevate your experience and understanding of the culture!

Cicchetti

Walking through the city, you might notice some shops with small bite plates displayed on the window, perfect for an afternoon snack. Cicchetti is a Venetian antipasti, consisting of small plates or finger foods usually eaten with a glass of wine or spritz (apertivo). They are usually inexpensive, around 1-3 euros a plate. Some cicchetti may be fish that you haven’t tried before, so keep an open mind and be willing to experiment! Or, you could ask for the staff recommendation.

⭐ Recommended Restaurants: Osteria al Portego (Castello), Cà D’Oro alla (Cannaregio), La Cantina (Cannaregio)

Buranelli

For dessert, if you’re not already planning to enjoy some Gelato Suso, why not try some buranelli? Buranelli is a dessert biscuit, originating from the island of Burano. You can find them in any pastry shop in the city!

Venice 2 Days: Dos and Don’ts

✔️ Do Pack Light

Pack light! You will have to walk your suitcase to your hotel and there are many stairs all throughout the city. There are no taxis or public land transport in the city and most accommodations are only reached by foot. There are some luggage services, but they are pricey.

I brought a large suitcase with me to Europe. Yes, the one I lost. And I found myself dragging that very large luggage (that had been lost) all around Venice, up the stairs, and through the canals. But even if you pack like me, you don’t have to do what I did. Instead of dragging that eyesore everywhere, store your luggage in a locker instead!

✔️ Do carry some cash

Although I was able to pay with card at almost all the restaurants, there are still some smaller, local run shops that will only accept cash. It would be wise to keep a bit of change on you.

❌ Don’t sit on the canal docks

Despite how peaceful it may seem to sit on the dock and stare at the water, it’s not allowed. I sat by a dock with my partner and had a deep conversation watching the boats pass, but after 15 minutes we were kindly asked to stand up as it was not allowed. Canals dock here, so don’t do what I did!

❌ Don’t expect pizza

Wood-burning ovens are actually banned in Venice, so most pizza restaurants are tourist traps. Remember that Venice was independent for a very long time, and has its own unique cuisine.

Instead, try a seafood dish! Squid ink pasta is a great classic Venetian dish to step out of your comfort zone!

❌ Don’t walk in the middle of the street

The streets in Venice can be extremely narrow, and it is impolite to take up the space by walking in the middle. Instead, stick to the right to give other people the chance to pass by!

❌ Don’t feed the pigeons

If you walk by St. Mark’s Square, you’ll see some tourist traps where they try to give you feed to give to the pigeons so you can take a picture. Don’t do it!

My partner was convinced by a man to feed the pigeons, and when we tried to give him change afterwards, it apparently wasn’t enough money because he threw the change back at us.

It was rude, and kind of ruined the mood for our first day. Later, we found out that it’s technically illegal to feed the pigeons too. So just avoid those crowds of pigeons entirely.

Venice 2 Days: What to Pack

First, here are the essentials that I would bring to Venice regardless of what time of year you are visiting…

The Essentials

✔️ External Battery Pack

✔️ European outlet adapter

✔️ Sunglasses

✔️ Travel pillow

✔️ Reusable Water Bottle

✔️ Comfortable shoes

✔️ Rubber boots (if there is a chance of high water)

✔️ Anti-theft proof bag

With these, you should be able to travel comfortably around Venice. Remember to pack light if you can!

The clothing to pack for Venice ultimately depends on what season you are going in.

Summer

Summertime in Venice can be hot and humid, so wear breathable clothing that won’t make you sweat. Sun wear like a hat and glasses would be helpful to protect you from the sun’s rays as well.

Fall/Spring

Temperature will vary during the shoulder seasons, but overall it’s best to pack layers. Don’t forget to pack a light rain jacket or small umbrella in case of rain.

Winter

Venice will be cold in the winter, so it’s best to bring warm layers and a thick jacket for outerwear. Bundle on accessories and bring a scarf and gloves. It will probably rain, so it might be smart to include some waterproof shoes.

Modest wear

If you plan on visiting churches while visiting Venice during your short stay, you must dress conservatively in respect to the church. If you do not dress according to the following rules, there is a chance you may be turned away at the door.

❌ No sleeveless tops (aka, no exposed shoulders)

❌ No exposed midriffs

❌ No skirts or shorts above the knees

Venice 2 Days Itinerary: Conclusion

I hope you enjoyed my 2 day Venice Itinerary! Honestly, I want to go back already. Venice is beautiful, magical, and just so fun to explore. I hope you have the most amazing trip and fall in love with Venice just as much as I did. Next time maybe I’ll visit for a few more days, and maybe explore some new cities too!

If you’re wondering what other cities to visit after Venice, check out my Rome 3 day itinerary! I headed over to Venice after I visited Rome, you can definitely visit either one first. Both cities have a special charm and you should experience them while you are in the country. Check out some more of my Italy blog posts below:

Is Venice Italy Safe? How To Stay Safe Traveling In 2024

Rome 3 Days: All The Best Attractions You Can’t Miss!

Is Rome Worth Visiting?: Make The Ultimate Verdict

Is There Uber In Rome? (How To Get Around In 2024)

10 Things To Know About The Best Colosseum Tours In 2024

If you liked this post, don’t forget to pin it!