Venice is a world of its own. This iconic city is built on 118 islands and is often called, as one would expect, the floating city. It’s crossed by canals where gondolas and taxi boats glide, taking visitors on a memorable and very scenic cruising experience.
Its maze of narrow alleys, beautiful bridges, and astounding buildings only contribute to its overall charm. I, born and raised not far from Venice, absolutely love it.
And it’s not only the architecture and famous landmarks that make it such a fascinating destination. Its hidden corners, nearby islands, and delicious cuisine (yum, the cicchetti!) are a visitor’s dream!
Whether you’re looking for the ultimate Venice tours to join, planning a DIY day trip, or ready for an extended holiday, I got you covered.
In this article, you’ll find a list of the very best things to do in Venice to ensure you make the most of your time there. Most of them have been tried and tested by me during my visits, and I’ve compiled not only the hotspots but some hidden gems as well.
TOP 10 THINGS TO DO IN VENICE
Get Lost in the Alleys of Venice
Venice could be referred to as a maze city, with each of the islands showcasing narrow alleys that snake between the old buildings.
These alleyways are called calli, and they will take you to hidden corners, unknown viewpoints, and forgotten canals. Venice is filled with magnificent corners, and the best way to explore them is to quite literally get lost in its enchanting alleys.
Start walking and turn wherever you feel like, letting the calli take you to unexpected places in the city. It’s one of my favorite things to do in the city!
Be Mesmerized by St. Mark’s Square
St. Mark’s Square is one of the sights in Venice you simply cannot miss, located in the heart of the city and home to the main government buildings. These also happen to be some of the major landmarks, such as Doge’s Palace, the Bell Tower, St. Mark’s Basilica, and the awe-striking Clock Tower.
Piazza San Marco is a closed square dating back to the 12th century. It’s surrounded by cultural attractions including art galleries, museums, and a library. The piazza is one of the most mesmerizing locations in the city, and while it’s incredibly touristy it’s still a Venice must-do.
It’s also near some of the main canals, such as Canal Grande and Rio del Palazzo, making it easily accessible from other locations. It’s a great starting point for further adventures on a Vaporetto as well 😉
Visit St. Mark’s Basilica
St. Mark’s Basilica stands out among the other landmarks in Piazza San Marco for its striking beauty and imposing character. It’s named after Saint Mark, and it was built to house his relics in the 1040s, which had been stolen in Alexandria two hundred years prior.
It replaced the earlier Cathedral of San Pietro di Castello as the seat of the Patriarchate of Venice in the 19th century. To this day, it’s the main religious center in the city.
The basilica’s facade is truly remarkable, but its interior is equally grand. It boasts high ceilings, astounding works of art, columns, arches, and golden-colored walls.
It combines Byzantine, Gothic, and Romanesque architectural styles, and its details are very intricate.
➤ The Venice: St. Mark’s Basilica After-Hours Tour with Optional Doge’s Palace is a great way to explore it. You’ll learn about the Basilica’s construction and significance from a local guide. Since the visit is after hours, there won’t be any crowds, and you can also opt to include a tour of Doge’s Palace. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
➤ The Venice Doge’s Palace & St. Mark’s Basilica Skip-the-Line Tour grants you immediate access to both landmarks, and a guided tour of each. The experience lasts 2.5 hours and provides you with interesting insights into the buildings’ history, artworks, and architecture. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
St. Mark’s Basilica Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday from 9.30 AM to 5 PM. On Sundays and holidays the Basilica closes at 4.30 PM.
St. Mark’s Basilica Entrance Fee: 9€.
Climb the St. Mark’s Campanile & Check Out the Views
St. Mark’s Campanile is the Basilica’s bell tower, and it offers prime views over the square, as well as a fascinating experience.
The campanile is actually a reconstruction of the previous one, which collapsed in the early 20th century. It towers 323 feet (98.6 meters) over the piazza. Coincidence or not, it takes 323 steps to reach the top.
As the tallest structure in the city, St. Mark’s Campanile is very recognizable and it served as a marker that guided Venetian ships into harbor.
The first Campanile was also used by Galileo to demonstrate his telescope, and from the top you’ll get to enjoy a beautiful view of Venice and its major square.
➤ The St. Mark’s Campanile: Skip The Line Entrance grants you access to the Campanile as well as skip-the-line privileges. You’ll also get a downloadable audio guide to enjoy commentary about the city of Venice as you admire the views. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Go on a Gondola Ride
Probably the thing that has made Venice famous around the globe is its canals, and the charming gondolas that glide along them.
A bucket list item for many, enjoying a gondola ride is the epitome of a visit to the city, and one of its most popular activities.
Gondolas are traditional row boats that are uniquely shaped, and are led by expert gondoliers along the numerous canals.
During a gondola ride, you’ll sail past some of the city’s major landmarks, admiring the views from the water. Pass under famous bridges, and soak in the atmosphere of one of the world’s most enchanting cities in the most romantic way.
Gondola rides tend to last 30 minutes – although you could extend it to an hour – and they can usually accommodate up to five people. Unsurprisingly, it’s also a favorite activity among couples.
➤ The Private Gondola Ride in Venice Off the Beaten Track takes your group of up to 5 on a beautiful trip. The trip can last anywhere between 30 minutes to 2 hours, and will take you gliding on the city’s less-traveled canals. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
➤ This Venice: Grand Canal Gondola Ride with App Commentary is a very informative experience. You’ll be gliding past landmarks and beautiful sceneries while listening to the commentary of a downloadable app. You’ll glide along the Grand Canal and other less-known waterways, passing by wonderful sights for 45 minutes. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Visit Murano and Burano
Murano and Burano are two of the best places to visit near Venice. These islands are renowned for their colorful houses, glass-blowing production, and delicious biscuits.
Located only a short boat ride from central Venice, they make for a fantastic day trip (or even half-day if you’re in a rush) from the city. I’d say that if you have at least 2 days in Venice, these should be on your itinerary.
Burano is considered the oldest part of Venice, and it’s the most vibrant island of the two. It boasts vividly painted facades and houses facing each other across the small canals.
Burano is also well-known for its tradition of lace-making, which is why you’ll find several shops and ateliers. And you can’t miss a stop at one of its bakeries for some tasty Bussolá and Essi, the island’s typical cookies!
Murano is not as colorful, but it’s an equally popular attraction for its glass industry. Most visits to the island include a stop at its factory, where you can appreciate the art of glass-blowing and shop for unique souvenirs.
Unmissables in Murano also include the Church of Santa Maria e San Donato, and the Canale Grande.
I’ve previously listed my favorite tours to Murano and Burano, but if you’re in a rush here are the short notes:
➤ This Premium Lagoon Excursion: Murano Glass Making, Burano & Wine Tasting is a half-day trip to visit both islands. You’ll enjoy a guided tour of Burano and then opt for a lace-factory visit or some free time. Experience an exclusive wine tasting in a secret vineyard on the island. Finally, enjoy a glass-making demonstration at Murano’s factory. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
➤ The Murano Glass Experience with a Visit to a Burano Lace Island is an excursion that will zip you across the Venetian lagoon to visit both islands. You’ll visit Murano’s glass factory for a demonstration and some shopping. Then, make your way to Burano for a guided tour and a stop at a lace-making factory. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Explore the Jewish Quarter & Cannaregio
Despite being a rather small city, Venice bustles with enchanting corners, landmarks, and neighborhoods that are worth visiting. The Cannaregio & the Jewish Quarter are incredible places to visit in Venice, and you can easily explore them on foot.
The district of Cannaregio is the second-largest of the six sestieri in Venice. It’s home to the Jewish Quarter, established around the 16th century and considered to be the world’s oldest Jewish ghetto.
It’s where the population was forced to live for close to three centuries. To accommodate an evergrowing community, the buildings became taller, and the quarter a center of commerce, business, and culture.
While the Ghetto is not strictly Jewish anymore, and the population is much smaller, you’ll still see traces of its thriving years in the shops and synagogues that remain. There’s also a very interesting Jewish Museum which recounts the history of the community and which I recommend visiting.
➤ This Jewish Ghetto Walking Tour and Synagogue Tour Option takes between 2 and 3 hours – depending on whether you include the Synagogue visit. You’ll discover the district of Cannaregio and its fascinating Jewish Ghetto with a local guide. Visit the main locations, and learn about the history and culture of this part of Venice. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Enjoy a Venice Food Tour
Venetian cuisine is every bit as mouthwatering as you probably expect, considering it’s one of Italy’s major cities. It features an incredible number of high-end restaurants, local eateries, bakeries, cafés, and bars. It prides itself in having its very own typical dishes – some of which you’ll only be able to eat in Venice.
While you could eat your way through the city by sampling something new in every meal, I highly recommend joining a Venice food tour.
As you walk around the center of Venice with a Venetian foodie, you’ll be sure to tackle all the local delicacies that go from Cicchetti to Fegato alla Veneziana, risotto, risi e bisi, and bigoli.
You’ll learn all about the local cuisine and its origins as you relish the tasty bites!
These are my suggestions:
➤ Experience Venice Like a Local: Small Group Cicchetti & Wine Tour takes you to local bars and eateries in the backstreets of the city. Getting away from the tourist spots, you’ll have the chance to savor traditional dishes and delicious wine as you learn about the city’s foodie scene. You’ll also glide along the Grand Canal on a ferry gondola. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
➤ The Tastes & Traditions of Venice: Food Tour with Rialto Farmers Market & Lunch is another fantastic option. You’ll enjoy 7 food stops along the way as you explore Venice and learn about its culinary heritage from a guide. You’ll sample cicchetti – small Venetian dishes – and wash them down with Prosecco. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ If these options don’t quite convince you, I’ve written a whole post about food tours in Venice with plenty more alternatives!
Walk Across the Ponte di Rialto Bridge
As mentioned in the introduction, one of the most charming aspects of Venice is the picturesque bridges that span the canals of the city. There is one, however, that steals the thunder of all other bridges: Ponte di Rialto.
It is the oldest of the four bridges that cross the Grand Canal, and it’s a magnificent work of art and architecture.
Ponte de Rialto was originally built in the 12th century. After several reconstructions due to diverse factors, its final version is a beautiful accomplishment of Renaissance architecture from the 1500s.
The covered bridge connects the sestieri of San Polo and San Marco, and makes for a fabulous viewpoint of the Grand Canal.
Be sure to walk across it to admire its architecture and design details from up close. Oh, and to catch the views of the canal, of course!
Visit the Doge’s Palace
Doge’s Palace, or Palazzo Ducale in Italian, is a spectacular palace that served as the home to the Doge, the city’s head of state.
It also housed the offices of several political authorities, and acted as a fortress and the prison of the Republic of Venice in the 12th century.
The actual building, however, was not constructed until the 14th century, replacing the old structure.
Doge’s Palace went up in flames several times over the centuries, but now stands as one of the major landmarks of Venice. It houses a museum, beautiful rooms covered in frescos, and a courtyard, all of which can be visited.
You’ll get to climb up Scala d’Oro, the golden staircase, to the Doge’s apartments and the different offices, prison, and chambers.
➤ I suggest you get a Doge’s Palace Reserved Entry Ticket in advance to avoid losing precious time in the long queues outside the attraction. With your admission, you’ll also have access to the Correr Museum, the National Archaeological Museum, and Biblioteca Marcian. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
➤ You can also opt for a Doge’s Palace & St. Mark’s Basilica with Terrace Access Tour, and choose between a group or private experience. Access the attraction with a knowledgeable guide, learning all the secrets and history behind it. You’ll also enjoy admission to the city’s Basilica and its terrace. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Doge’s Palace Opening Hours: Daily from 9 AM to 7 PM (last admission at 6 PM). It closes at 6 PM from November to March.
Doge’s Palace Entry Fee: 30€. (Or 25€ if you book online 30 days prior to the visit).
OTHER 17 THINGS TO DO IN VENICE
I got you covered with + 20 best things to see and do in Venice…and the list is far from over! Keep reading to find more amazing classic experiences and off-the-beaten-path adventures!
Ride the Vaporetto on the Grand Canal
A Vaporetto could be considered the local alternative to the gondolas, so it’s a perfect activity for those who don’t want to do touristy stuff… But still want to glide along the Grand Canal!
A Vaporetto is the water bus service of Venice, used by locals to commute. In this city, all transportation systems (along with ambulances and police cars) operate on the water, and that includes taxis and buses.
The Vaporetti connect the different districts and islands on the Venetian Lagoon. If you plan on traveling around, you should consider getting the Venezia Unica Pass, which will save you money on transfers.
A one-way journey costs around 8€, and you’ll have to board Line 1 to travel along the city’s major waterway. This will grant you iconic views of the city and its major highlights. It’s not quite as romantic as a Venice gondola, but it does the trick (and takes you places!)
➤ You can get a Venice: Waterbus and Mainland Bus Pass to access the fabulous Vaporetti, and also the land transportation around the city. The same ticket is valid to visit Murano, Burano, or Torcello as well as to ride around Venice. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
➤ If you’re in it for the experience, you can alternatively book this Private Grand Canal 1-Hour Boat Tour. You’ll zip past the city’s magnificent buildings and under the bridges of the Grand Canal as your guide explains the history of the Basilica and Doge’s Palace and the city. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Check out this selection of other boat tours in Venice as well.
Have a Coffee at Caffè Florian
Located in Piazza San Marco, you’ll find an iconic, traditional-looking building with the word Florian inscribed atop every window.
Caffè Florian has been standing in the square since the early 1700s. It will most definitely transport you into the past with its classic design and architecture!
The café is by no means a coffee break destination, as its website rightfully claims, but a unique experience in Venice.
It has over 300 years of history, and equally ancient recipes! Plus, its gorgeous setting makes having afternoon tea or a cup of chocolate at Florian’s a real treat.
The café offers both indoor and outdoor seating areas, as well as a bar which makes the bill relatively cheaper since you’re not occupying a table. As it can be expected due to its prime location and fame, Caffè Florian is very overpriced. I think it’s still worth it for the experience, though.
It is, after all, an incredibly fancy café and the oldest in Europe. Its location on the square means you can people-watch and enjoy the occasional live music performances as well.
Caffè Florian Opening Hours: Daily from 9 AM to 11 PM.
Have Some Cicchetti and a Spritz
Repeat after me: No trip to Italy is complete without experiencing aperitivo. And the very best aspect about Venice is that it has its own style to do it.
The traditional Venetian tapas, cicchetti, are finger-food items consisting of crostini topped with various ingredients such as cheese, prosciutto, and vegetables.
These snacks can also be sandwiches, small plates of seafood or meat, and fried bites, and are served at a bácaro – a wine bar.
Cicchetti are enjoyed by locals as a pre-dinner nibble and relished alongside a glass of wine, Prosecco, or a refreshing Spritz. It’s the perfect way to end your day of explorations, and one of the main highlights of Venice!
Cicchetti are also very filling, so they could easily replace a meal.
▶️ Osteria Al Squero is one of the best places to indulge. It’s a traditional bar serving affordable and very highly-rated cicchetti, which you can enjoy with a drink. The osteria sits right in front a small canal, offering lovely views that enhance the experience.
▶️ Bacareto da Lele is among the most popular bacari in the city. It serves incredibly tasty cicchetti, presented as sandwiches during the day, and as snack trays for Aperitivo. You can also get inexpensive, small glasses of wine, Spritz, or beer to go with them. They make for a great to-go lunch if you’re in a hurry!
▶️ Cantina Do Mori is said to be the most ancient tavern in the city…and it dates back to the 15th century! It features a great variety of pre-made cicchetti that you can choose from the counter, and of course pairs them with local wines and Prosecco. It’s very traditional and you’ll be standing at the bar or outside among locals as you enjoy your bites.
Browse Books at Libreria Acqua Alta
Libreria Acqua Alta is a very unique building in Venice: it’s none other than the city’s most popular bookstore, and an absolute delight for book lovers.
The bookstore is hidden in the side streets of Venice, so the chances of simply stumbling upon it are not high, which makes it all the more exciting.
One of the most interesting aspects of this shop is that most of its books are placed in bathtubs and boats, as a consequence of the constant flooding. Acqua Alta actually means High Water.
There are also stacks of books at the entrance, and a beautiful book staircase that’s popular among Instagrammers.
At the libreria you’ll find a collection of old books, maps, and magazines, and very cute resident cats that have been adopted by the store. If you’re looking for what to do in Venice that’s original and very Instagrammable…this is it!
EXTRA TIP: Don’t miss the store’s fire exit, which opens directly into a canal!
Visit During the Venice Carnival
Granted, the Venice Carnival might be one of the busiest times in the city. However, there’s nothing like experiencing the festival in one of the cities most renowned for it.
The Venice Carnival has been celebrated since the Middle Ages, although it suffered a halt that lasted almost two centuries after being banned during the Napoleonic era. It didn’t make its comeback until the 20th century, and it now attracts close to 3 million visitors from all around the globe.
The Carnival takes place during the month of February, and it’s notorious for the elaborate costumes and masks that are used. While it has a religious background, it has become one of the most important cultural events in the country.
➤ If the festival doesn’t fall within your Venice itinerary, you can still enjoy a Carnival Mask Workshop. Paint your very own Venetian mask while learning about the techniques used for centuries to craft them. You’ll also discover interesting facts about the Carnival and the role the masks play. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Combine the Rialto Market with a Cooking Class
Mercado di Rialto is one of the must-visit locations in Venice: a bustling market catering to locals’ every need.
The Rialto Market, also known as Venice’s Fish Market, is truly unique. Located by the Grand Canal, it boasts a great number of stalls overflowing with fresh produce and fish.
The Pescheria (fish market) is situated in covered halls, while the open-air section of the Mercado brims with spices, vegetables, meat, and fruit.
The best way to enjoy the Rialto Market, however…is by combining it with a cooking class! What use is it to visit a food hub and not buy any fresh ingredients to craft your meals? It’s one of the top experiences in Venice for all types of visitors, but especially foodies!
➤ This Rialto Market Tour, Cooking Class & Lunch is just the experience you need. It starts at the lively Mercado, where you’ll shop for produce with a chef before heading to the class. Learn to prepare traditional Venetian dishes, and then enjoy them with a glass of wine. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ If this one is not your cup of tea, check out these other great cooking classes in Venice.
Stop By the Peggy Guggenheim Collection
Peggy Guggenheim Collection is an art museum located in the Dorsoduro district, one of the main areas of Venice right next to the Grand Canal. The museum is named after the American art collector Peggy, whose personal curation is displayed for visitors to admire.
The collection showcases astounding works that cover a wide range of artistic movements. There you’ll find pieces by Joan Miró, Dalí, Kandinsky, Marcel Duchamp, Picasso, and René Magritte.
The museum also features a sculpture garden, where Peggy’s remains rest, and it offers an account of the interesting life of its founder. Aside from one of the most remarkable collections of modern art, of course.
You can choose to visit the museum on your own or to join a guided tour on-site.
Peggy Guggenheim Collection Opening Hours: Wednesday to Monday from 10 AM to 6 PM.
Peggy Guggenheim Collection Entrance Fee: 17€. The entrance with a guided tour costs 27€.
Check Out the Bridge of Sighs
The Bridge of Sighs is the only bridge in Venice that’s completely covered, featuring two small windows on the sides. Spanning across Rio del Palazzo, the bridge connects Doge’s Palace to the Prison building, where sentenced prisoners were sent.
Ponte dei Sospiri is actually named after the supposed sighs emitted by the convicts as they walked toward the prison. The name is attributed to Lord Byron, the English poet.
The bridge dates back to the early 17th century, and despite its dark history, it’s beautiful. You can admire it either by gliding on a gondola beneath it or by stepping on one of the nearby bridges.
You can also walk across it, as the prisoners did all those years ago, while visiting Doge’s Palace.
Bridge of Sighs Opening Hours: Daily from 9 AM to 7 PM (last admission at 6 PM).
Bridge of Sighs (Doge’s Palace) Entrance Fee: 30€. (Or 25€ if you book online 30 days prior to the visit).
Taste Tiramisu at I Tre Mercanti
When you get to Venice, take a trip to I Tre Mercanti, a gourmet boutique that serves the most delicious tiramisu in the city. The dessert is made in the shop fresh every hour, and visitors can see the live preparation through a glass window.
It’s prepared in small to-go cups which you can purchase in its +20 different variants, including Mango, Orange, Coffee, and Tropical Fruits.
While Tiramisu is the gem of the shop, I Tre Mercanti also sells macarons, cannoli, regional wines, dried pasta, chocolate bars, olive oil, Balsamic Vinegar, and sauces.
I Tre Mercanti Opening Hours: Daily from 11 AM to 7 PM.
Add Torcello To Your Venice Islands Tour
Torcello is yet another picturesque island in the Venetian Lagoon, home to a very small population and less visited than its famous counterparts of Murano and Burano.
The small island saw its first inhabitants in the 5th century, but 1,000 years later a combination of a growing swamp area and malaria forced most of them out. Nowadays, Torcello is home to only 10 people, though it swarms with tourists in the summertime.
Among its main attractions are the Byzantine Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, the Provincial Museum of Torcello, and the Ponte del Diavolo.
➤ You can embark on a Murano, Burano, Torcello Island & Glass Factory Tour to visit the three colorful islands. Enjoy a glass-blowing demonstration at the famous factory, and have free time to wander around each island. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Join a Ghost Tour of Venice
Did you know about Venice’s eerie past? The enchanting city is absolutely beautiful during the day, but when the night falls the legends and dark tales of its bygone days come to life.
Join a ghost tour in Venice to discover spine-chilling stories about unnatural events and ghost residents. All the while, you’ll be exploring the empty, hidden back alleys and cemeteries at night. If you get a thrill from ghost tales, you can’t miss this unique experience!
➤ This Mysterious Tales of Ghosts and Murders takes you around the district of Cannaregio after twilight. You’ll be accompanied by a local guide eager to share with you frightful tales of ghost appearances and dark events. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Catch a Show at La Fenice Opera House
The Teatro La Fenice ought to be one of the fanciest opera houses in the country. It features an opulent venue with intricate decorations, a spectacular chandelier, and a phenomenal stage.
It’s regarded as one of the most important landmarks of Italian theater, and its name – which means The Phoenix – reflects its history of fires. The opera house’s theaters burnt to the ground numerous times over the centuries.
The most recent one was in 1996, and it was rebuilt into the glorious venue it is today in 2004.
The theater houses first-class opera shows throughout the year, showcasing both classic and modern pieces, as well as musical recitals. You can check their website for the current calendar of events – getting to watch a show at La Fenice is such a treat if you’re in Venice at the right time!
If the timing is not right, however, you can still visit the Opera House to admire its interiors and learn about its history. It’s arguably one of the highlights in Venice, especially if you’re a lover of theater or architecture.
➤ This La Fenice Opera House Entry Ticket with Audio Guide allows you to skip the lines when entering the grand venue. You’ll discover facts about its architecture and history through an audio guide commentary that’s available in 7 languages. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Check out the View from T Fondaco dei Tedeschi
T Fondaco dei Tedeschi is a luxury, duty-free store in Venice… I know, I know, you probably prefer to do your duty-free shopping at the airport rather than to waste precious time in city. But don’t worry, I’m not sending you there to drain your travel budget, but to admire the views.
The historical building that houses T Fondaco dei Tedeschi offers a privileged panorama over Venice. Its rooftop terrace overlooks the Grand Canal and the city’s waterfront houses.
Formerly a post office, the building features 4 floors and sells everything from luxury accessories and souvenirs to perfume, shoes, pastries, and fresh pasta.
On the 4th floor, there’s the terrace from where you’ll indulge in a spectacular vista. The entrance is free, but you still need to book in advance via their website.
You’ll find T Fondaco dei Tedeschi around the corner from Rialto Bridge.
T Fondaco dei Tedeschi Opening Hours: Daily from 10 AM to 7 PM
Go Wine Tasting or on a Prosecco Wine Tour
The Veneto region might not be as famous as Tuscany when it comes to wine production, but it should be equally acclaimed.
A great producer of red wine and Prosecco, Veneto is the birthplace of wines like Bardolino and Amarone della Valpolicella. There’s no better place to go on a comprehensive, delicious tasting of regional wines than Venice.
In my opinion, it should be on every list of the best things to try in Venice…and you’ll agree if you’re a wine lover!
➤ The Eat, Drink and Repeat: Wine and Food Tasting Tour in Venice is a 2-hour experience. It takes you to six bars and restaurants, in each of which you’ll get to taste delicious bites paired with wine glasses. Led by a guide, you’ll also get to hear stories about the city’s past. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
➤ With this Venice: Prosecco Hills and Wine Tasting Tour you’ll leave the city behind and embark on a trip to explore the Veneto wine country. You’ll visit two different wineries for Prosecco tastings, and enjoy a light lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Take a Day Trip from Venice
A thorough Italy itinerary could take you years to follow, as there are so many amazing destinations to see throughout the country!
While visiting Venice in Northern Italy, you’ll be close to numerous cities that are very well worth a visit. I highly recommend going on a day trip to see the best of the region.
Among the best places to visit in Italy that are easily accessible from the city of canals are these below.
Dolomites
The Dolomites region is 102 miles (165 km) north of Venice, and it’s an easy day trip destination. The Dolomites is a spectacular mountain range with awe-striking landscapes that attracts thousands of outdoor lovers and hikers from all over the world.
Giau Pass, Gardena Pass, and Marmolada are very popular trails in the mountains, while Pragser Wildsee, Val di Funes, and Cortina d’Ampezzo are a few of the region’s highlights.
You can easily reach Bolzano, the gateway to the Dolomites, by train. Once you’re there, you’ll need to rely on public buses to move around, although it’s much more convenient to have a car.
➤ Alternatively, you can join a Dolomite Mountains and Cortina Semi Private Day Trip from Venice. You’ll embark on a journey passing by Lake Misurina, the peaks of Tre Cime di Lavaredo, and spending time in the enchanting town of Cortina d’Ampezzo. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Check out my selection of the best Dolomites tours from Venice for more options!
Verona & Lake Garda
Verona, Italy’s favorite city of love, is very close to Venice, and therefore one of the most popular day trips from the city of canals. It features remarkable architecture, including one of the best-preserved Roman Amphitheaters and the famous Juliet’s House.
Lake Garda is not far off, and as the largest lake in the country, it deserves all the hype around it. It’s a gorgeous and very peaceful location, and combined with Verona makes for an amazing day exploring the region.
Reaching Verona from Venice is very easy by train. You can use the same transportation method to get to Lake Garda and back to Venice at the end of your trip.
➤ The Verona & Amarone Full-Day Tour from Venice takes you to the city of Verona and the beautiful regions of Valpolicella and Amarone. You’ll enjoy wine tastings, and catch the scenic views of Lake Garda before returning. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
➤ This Land of Venice: Verona, Lake Garda and Countryside Private Tour is a full-day adventure that allows you to discover the wonders of Veneto. You’ll stroll around the historic center of Verona, admire the mesmerizing landscape of Lake Garda as you glide across it, and indulge in a scrumptious lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Vicenza
Vicenza is yet another fascinating Veneto city, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Vicenza is known around the world mainly for one thing: its spectacular architecture.
Home to the famous Renaissance architect Andrea Palladio, who pretty much designed the city to his liking, Vicenza has a lot to offer its visitors.
The train journey from Venice takes 35 minutes, and the wonders awaiting in Palladio’s city are very worth the trip.
➤ If you’re interested in learning more about the city’s unique architecture and history, join this Palladio: A Wonderful Live Tale Through Time and Soul from Venice. You’ll get roundtrip transportation and a comprehensive tour around Vicenza and its famous villas. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Padua
Padua is famous for its religious heritage and its University, established in the 13th century. Galileo himself lived there for many years while teaching mathematics.
As Italy’s second-oldest University, it’s one of the major landmarks in Padua, but not the only one. The Cathedral, Saint Anthony of Padua, the ancient markets, and the city’s beautifully designed buildings are worth the visit too.
➤ This Full-Day Venice to Padua Burchiello Brenta Riviera Boat Cruise is a lovely experience to enjoy a day out from Venice. You’ll cruise along the Brenta Riviera to Padua, stopping along the way to visit Venetian Villas, and getting to explore the town of Oriago.
You’ll arrive in Padua in the evening and enjoy a couple of hours wandering around before it’s time to return to Venice. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Soak Up the Sun at Venice Lido
Lido di Venezia is a barrier island right next to Venice known as a beach holiday destination, and for hosting the Venice Film Festival every year. The beautiful beaches are safe to swim in, and an ideal place to soak up the sun for an entire afternoon.
It’s popular among families, and tourists looking for a balance between the city attractions of Venice and the more relaxing, laid-back vibes of Venice Lido.
Don’t Miss the Venice Biennale
The Venice Biennale is an international art exhibition that takes place in the city every two years. It lasts six months, starting in the summertime, and it showcases everything from visual arts to architecture, music, dance, cinema, and theater.
Through the art interventions, themes such as social issues, politics, and environmental concerns are expressed. Celebrities and visitors from all corners of the world flock to Venice to enjoy the festival.
Venice’s Art Biennale is one of the major contemporary art exhibitions in existence. It represents artists from tens of countries, and it takes place in the even years, while the Architecture Biennale takes place in the odd years.
If you’re hoping to visit Venice without the crowds, this is definitely not the right time to travel, though.
