Have you been dreaming of exploring Venice, but unsure where to begin with your itinerary?
With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to create the perfect itinerary. But don’t stress! In this guide, I cover everything I did during my amazing visit to this charming Italian city.
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Quick Mini Guide To Venice hidden gems
Don’t have a lot of time? Here’s a quick mini guide to Venice.
Where to stay
Budget: Hotel Bel Sito e Berlino
Mid- Range: Cà dell’arte Suite
Luxury Apartment: Casa Marco Polo
Tickets & Tours You shouldn’t miss
– Doge’s Palace Reserved Entry Ticket
– Skip the Line: St. Mark’s Basilica Guided Tour
– Bell Tower and San Marco History Gallery Tickets
– Street Food Tour with a Local Guide and Tastings
– Walking Guided Tour of the City Must-See Sites
Stay connected
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🚑 Safety Wing Travel insurance for any emergency
Venice, the floating city of canals, is a dream destination filled with history, romance, and unforgettable scenery. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to soak up more of its charm, this 3-day Venice itinerary will guide you through the best sights, local eats, and unique experiences while allowing time to relax and take in the magic of La Serenissima
Day 1: Classic Venice – Landmarks, Rooftop Views & Gondolas
Piazza San Marco
- Time needed: 30-45 minutes
- Cost: free
Begin your day early at Piazza San Marco, the heart of Venice. St. Mark’s Square, or Piazza San Marco, is one of those places in Venice that will absolutely take your breath away. The square offers stunning views of the canal and is surrounded by gorgeous buildings that are impossible to miss. With the grand Doge’s Palace, the towering St. Mark’s Campanile, and so much more, you’ll feel like you’re in the heart of Venice itself.
It’s a fantastic spot to just stroll around and take it all in, especially if you love people-watching. You’ll see everyone from locals to tourists, all enjoying the beauty of the square. And if you’re looking for some Instagram-worthy photos, there’s no shortage of amazing spots—whether it’s the elegant architecture or the lively vibe of the cafes.
Go inside St. Mark’s Basilica
- Time needed: 1-1.5 hours
- Cost: Basilica (Free), Rooftop Museum (€10), Campanile (€10)
St. Mark’s Basilica is an absolute gem of Venice—an elegant cathedral built in the stunning Gothic style of architecture. As the city’s most famous cathedral, it has a rich history, dating all the way back to the 11th century. Talk about stepping into history!
The best part? It’s completely free to enter, so there’s no reason not to explore its beauty. While donations are usually requested at the door, you can enjoy the experience without worrying about an entrance fee. Just be aware that there may be a line to get in, but trust me, it’s absolutely worth the wait!
A quick heads-up: There’s a dress code to enter St. Mark’s Basilica, which is standard for all cathedrals in Italy. To ensure respectful entry, make sure your elbows and knees are covered. Also, you can’t bring in any large bags, including backpacks, purses, or suitcases. So, plan accordingly—there’s nothing worse than waiting in line only to be turned away at the door!
Climb St. Mark’s Campanile
- Time needed: 0.5 hour
- Cost: (€10)
For one of the best views in Venice, head to the top of St. Mark’s Campanile. The panoramic view of the city, canals, and lagoon from the top is absolutely breathtaking and gives you a whole new perspective on Venice!
To reach the top, you’ll need to purchase a ticket, but you can easily book online in advance to skip the line when you get there. The ticket costs around €10, which is a small price to pay for such an incredible experience.
Once you’re up there, plan to spend 30 to 45 minutes soaking in the view, taking photos, and just enjoying the beauty of Venice from above. It’s an unforgettable moment and definitely worth adding to your itinerary!
Alternative: If you prefer a free rooftop view, visit T Fondaco dei Tedeschi (a luxury shopping mall). Their terrace offers stunning views over the Grand Canal, but you need to book a free slot online in advance.
Coffee at Café Florian – Europe’s Oldest Café
- Time needed: 30-45 minutes
- Cost: Coffee starts at €11+, but the experience is priceless!
After wandering around in St. Mark’s Square, it’s time to head to Café Florian. Café Florian, established in 1720, is the oldest café in Europe and a historic Venetian institution. Yes, it’s expensive, but sipping coffee in St. Mark’s Square, surrounded by history, is worth the splurge.
T Fondaco Rooftop (if not visited earlier) (10 min walk)
- Time needed: 15-20 minutes
- Cost: Free (reservation required)
Enjoy a breathtaking view of the Grand Canal from the T Fondaco dei Tedeschi rooftop terrace. This spot offers one of the best panoramic views of Venice, with sweeping sights of the iconic canal and the city’s stunning architecture. It’s the perfect place to relax, take in the scenery, and snap some unforgettable photos. The rooftop is free to access, but keep in mind that the time slot is limited to only 15 minutes, so be sure to book your spot in advance and make the most of your time up there!
Have a delicious Gelato at Suso (1 min walk)
- Must-try: Manet (hazelnut + gianduia) & Nutella
After sightseeing, cool off with some of the best gelato in Venice at Suso. The flavors are handcrafted, and the quality is unmatched. Have a delicious gelato at Suso! No Venice itinerary is complete without a mention of gelato, even if you’re visiting in winter—it’s a must-try!
Gelatoteca Suso, one of the top-rated gelato shops in the city, is conveniently located near the Rialto Bridge, making it an easy addition to your Venice plans. With a wide range of flavors, you can’t go wrong, but definitely try the Nutella flavor—it’s a crowd favorite! They also offer vegan options, so there’s something for everyone.
Nearby, you’ll find a charming little bridge with a stunning canal view, perfect for that classic gelato Instagram shot. Just a heads-up: gelato melts quickly (especially in summer), so be sure to snap your pics before digging into your treat, so you can take your time enjoying it!
Visit Libreria Acqua Alta – The Most Unique Bookstore in the World (7 min walk)
- Time needed: 20-30 minutes
- Cost: Free
Step into a Venetian wonderland at Libreria Acqua Alta, where books are stacked in gondolas, bathtubs, and even staircases! This whimsical bookshop is a must-visit for book lovers and photographers alike. This quirky, underrated bookstore is like no other—filled with gondolas! Since the store often floods, most of the books are shelved in gondolas to keep them safe, adding to its charm and unique character.
Take your time exploring the nooks and crannies of this fascinating space, and be sure to look out for the owner’s many cats, who love to roam through the stacks. Don’t miss the staircase made entirely of books by the canal—it’s the perfect spot for an Instagram photo and adds to the bookstore’s one-of-a-kind atmosphere.
Afternoon Break
Venice can be hot and crowded, so I recommend taking a break before heading out for your evening explorations.
Explore Doge’s Palace (Best Time: 4 PM – Fewer Crowds!)
- Time needed: 1.5-2 hours
- Cost: €30 (includes the Bridge of Sighs)
The Doge’s Palace is a Gothic architectural masterpiece that was once home to the rulers of Venice. Walk through its grand halls, hidden secret passageways, and the famous Bridge of Sighs, where prisoners took their last glimpse of freedom before being jailed.
To save both time and money, it’s a good idea to book your tickets online in advance buy them here or buy skip the lines tickets here This is the one I booked, and since I went at 4 pm, we entered straight away without having to line up. If you go at any other time during the day, the lines are massive! So, get your skip-the-line ticket and make the most of your time exploring this historic gem without the wait. It really makes all the difference!
Dinner with view at Trattoria Sempione – A Canal-Side Hidden Gem
- What to eat: Seafood pasta, risotto, and local wine
- Note: No reservations; expect a wait for a canal-view table
Tucked away along a quiet canal, Trattoria Sempione offers delicious Venetian cuisine in an unforgettable setting. Dining by the water, with candlelit views, is the perfect way to wrap up a day in Venice.
For me, dinner at Trattoria Sempione was a bucket-list experience. Enjoying a meal in Venice with a canal view feels like stepping into a fairytale. As gondoliers glide by, singing softly, the atmosphere becomes absolutely magical—an experience unlike any other. It’s one of those rare moments that makes you feel like you’re living in a dream. If you have the chance, don’t miss this unforgettable gem!
Day 2: Rialto, Hidden Streets and Gondola
Morning Walk at Rialto Bridge
- Best time: Early morning (before the crowds)
- Time needed: 1 hour
- Cost: Free
Start your day at the iconic Rialto Bridge, one of the most famous spots in Venice.
As the oldest bridge crossing the Grand Canal, the Rialto Bridge has been around since the 12th century, though the version we see today was built in the 16th century. It’s not just a beautiful piece of architecture—it’s also lined with shops, kind of like Florence’s Ponte Vecchio. It’s the perfect spot to snap some awesome photos and soak in the view of the Grand Canal!
Late breakfat at Al Merca – A Venetian Street Food Favorite (2 min walk)
- What to eat: Cicchetti (Venetian tapas) & a glass of local Prosecco
Al Merca is a tiny but famous local spot near Rialto Market. It’s the perfect place to stand at the bar and try Cicchetti, which are small bites on bread topped with seafood, meats, or cheese. It’s a Venice classic—simple, delicious, and a great way to experience authentic Venetian flavors. Be sure to grab a glass of wine to go with your Cicchetti for the full experience!
Visit the Bridge of Sighs (10 min walk)
- Time needed: 1 hour
- Cost: Free
If you missed it on Day 1, be sure to take a moment to see the Bridge of Sighs from the outside. As you leave Doge’s Palace, step right outside to check out this iconic bridge. It connects the prison to the palace and can be spotted from the nearby canal.
Legend has it that the Bridge of Sighs got its name because prisoners, being led to their imprisonment, would look out and let out one last sigh as they crossed. While the story may sound a bit grim, the bridge itself is stunning and definitely worth seeing.
The small footbridge along the canal offers the most popular view of the bridge, but if you have some extra time, take a walk towards St. Mark’s Basilica. Turn right, and you’ll find a small stone bridge right behind the Bridge of Sighs—it offers another beautiful and unique perspective!
Stroll Along the Lagoon
- Time needed: 1 hour
- Cost: Free
The Venetian Lagoon is a stunning and unique part of Venice, made up of a network of islands, canals, and marshlands. It’s not just the backdrop to Venice’s historic beauty; it also shapes the city’s life and culture.
The lagoon itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its shallow waters, historic canals, and abundant wildlife make it a natural treasure.
Wandering the Streets of Venice
- Time needed: 1 hour
- Cost: Free
One of my favorite things to do in Venice was simply getting lost in its streets. The city’s winding alleys, quiet courtyards, and hidden piazzas hold so many little surprises. I’d wander down narrow passages and suddenly stumble upon a cozy café or a tiny shop selling Venetian crafts. It felt like every corner was hiding something special.
Lunch at Pizza Farini
After all that walking and exploring, it’s time to take a break and grab a quick bite! Head to Pizza Farini, where you can enjoy a delicious slice of pizza for just €4.50. Trust me, it’s worth it!
Take a Gondola Ride
- Time needed: 30 minutes
- Cost: €80 per gondola (prices rise after 7 PM)
No trip to Venice felt complete for me without a romantic gondola ride. It was one of those bucket-list experiences that I’ll never forget. Gliding through the canals, away from the crowds, I felt like I was in a completely different world. The quieter, hidden canals gave me a peaceful, almost magical side of Venice I didn’t expect.
Pro Tip: take a stroll along the canals and pick one that catches your eye. You can choose the gondola and the colour you like, and sometimes even get a feel for the gondolier’s personality. If you’re looking for a more relaxed vibe, see if the gondolier seems friendly—it’s all about the experience, so it’s worth taking a moment to find the right one!
Watch Sunset at Ponte dell’Accademia
- Time needed: 1 hour
- Cost: Free
Wrap up your day with stunning sunset views from Ponte dell’Accademia. It’s one of the best spots to catch the Grand Canal glowing in golden light. You’ll also get a great shot of the iconic Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute, with its gorgeous dome rising at the canal’s entrance. The warm hues at sunset make for the perfect photo op, with the church’s intricate details framed by the soft glow of the sky. Definitely a must-see moment for anyone visiting Venice!
Dinner at Trattoria Dona Onesta
After soaking in the breathtaking sunset at Ponte dell’Accademia, it’s the perfect time for a delightful Venetian dinner. Take a scenic 12-minute walk through the city’s charming streets to Trattoria Dona Onesta, a cozy and welcoming restaurant known for its authentic Venetian cuisine. This trattoria offers a warm ambiance, fresh seafood, homemade pasta, and traditional dishes like sarde in saor and tagliolini agli scampi. With its friendly service and intimate setting with canal view, it’s an ideal spot to unwind and savor the flavors of Venice. You need to have booking in advance.
Day 3 Murano & Burano – A Day Trip to the Colorful Islands
For a unique and colorful escape from Venice, visit Burano and Murano in one morning. Burano is known for its vibrant houses and fishing village charm, while Murano is famous for its centuries-old glassmaking tradition. Here’s how to explore both islands efficiently.
Burano is a 45-minute boat ride from Venice. To visit Burano, you’ll want to hop on Vaporetto Line 12 from ‘F.te Nove A,’ which is super easy to find on Google Maps. If you’re planning to take the Vaporetto a few times, consider purchasing the day ticket to save money—it gives you unlimited rides and is a great deal! A single ticket costs €7.50 and is valid for 75 minutes, so you’ll need one for each way. For the best experience, catch the 7:10 AM Vaporetto to Burano, getting you there by 7:50 AM before the crowds arrive. If you miss it, the next boat is at 9:40 AM, meaning you won’t get there until 10:30 AM when it’s a lot busier. If you’re visiting on the weekend, going during the week makes for a much quieter experience.
Once you arrive, spend about 1.5 to 2 hours strolling through Burano’s colorful streets and snapping photos before the crowds really roll in. You’ll want to stop by Museo del Merletto to check out the island’s rich lacemaking history, and make sure to visit San Martino Church for its charming, historic vibe. Before you head out, treat yourself to breakfast at Panificio Pasticceria Garbo on Fondamenta S. Mauro for some fresh pastries that are absolutely delicious!
Visit Murano Island
To get from Burano to Murano, take Vaporetto Line 12, which will get you there in about 30 minutes. The boats run frequently, so you won’t have to wait long.
Once in Murano, spend your time exploring the island’s famous glassmaking heritage. Make sure to catch a live glassblowing demonstration at one of the local factories—it’s a must-see experience. For a hands-on experience, consider attending a glassmaking class, where you can try your hand at crafting your own piece of glass art. You’ll also want to visit the Murano Glass Museum (Museo del Vetro) to dive into the history of the island’s iconic glass production. As you wander through the island, don’t miss the charming canals and the unique glass shops selling everything from delicate ornaments to intricate sculptures. If you have some extra time, head to the Basilica di Santa Maria e San Donato, which is renowned for its stunning mosaic floors.
When it’s time to return to Venice, take Vaporetto Line 3 or Line 4.1/4.2 back. The ride takes about 15–20 minutes, with frequent departures.
Now you have seen most of the highlights of Venice, here are a few wonderful options to spend your last day in Venice, making the most of this magical city
Option 1: Street Food Tour with a Local Guide and Tastings
Take a highly-rated foodie tour through Venice, starting at Rialto Market and crossing the Rialto Bridge. Taste local specialties like regional cheeses, buranelli biscuits, traditional cakes, and tiramisù in the city where it was invented. Experience cicchetti (Venetian tapas) at cozy bàcari bars. Visit Campo San Polo, Basilica dei Frari, and Campo San Bartolomeo before ending at Campo Santa Margherita, surrounded by local restaurants and farmers’ markets.
This tour is a wonderful way to learn about the city while trying authentic local dishes. Book this tour from here.
Option 2: Photoshoot at Piazza San Marco and the Canals
Turn your visit to Venice into a lasting memory with a professional photoshoot at the iconic Piazza San Marco. Whether you’re traveling solo or with friends and family, this experience is a perfect way to capture the beauty and magic of Venice. With the stunning Basilica di San Marco and Campanile as your backdrop, you’ll have timeless photos to remember your unforgettable trip by. It’s a special opportunity to create memories you can cherish forever!
I hope this itinerary has inspired you and helped in planning your magical trip to Venice! Whether you’re soaking in the sights, tasting the local flavors, or capturing unforgettable moments, Venice is sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. Enjoy every moment of your adventure! Don’t forget to check my Venice Ultimate guide.
