Venice is a unique city located in northeastern Italy. Built on a series of islands and connected by a network of canals, Venice is a world-famous destination known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and romantic ambiance. You can stroll through narrow streets and alleys, take a gondola ride along the Grand Canal, admire iconic landmarks like St. Mark’s Basilica and the Rialto Bridge, and savor delicious Italian cuisine. Here is my two days Venice itinerary for you that includes visiting St. Mark’s Square, St. Mark’s Basilica, Doges Palace Bridge of Sighs, Rialto Bridge ,Gondola Ride, exploring the canals, Ponte dell’Accademia Teatro, La Fenice Band asilica di Santa Maria della Salute.
Best time to visit Venice
Venice is a beautiful city to visit throughout the year, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences and interests. Here’s what you can expect during each season:
Summer
During the day, temperatures can range from the mid-70s to the low 80s°F (mid-20s to high 20s°C), and at night, they can drop to the mid-60s°F (around 18°C). Summer is the peak tourist season, with plenty of outdoor events and festivals to enjoy. You can expect long lines at major attractions, crowded streets and canals, and higher prices for accommodations and food. However, the warm weather, longer daylight hours, and lively atmosphere make it a popular time to visit.
Fall
During the day, temperatures can range from the mid-50s to the mid-60s°F (around 13°C to 18°C), and at night, they can drop to the mid-40s to low 50s°F (around 7°C to 10°C). Fall is a great time to visit Venice, with fewer crowds, mild weather, and beautiful fall foliage. You can enjoy outdoor events and festivals like the Venice International Film Festival in September. However, you may encounter some rain, and some attractions may have reduced hours or be closed for the season.
Spring
During the day, temperatures can range from the low 50s to the low 70s°F (around 10°C to 20°C), and at night, they can drop to the low 40s to low 50s°F (around 5°C to 10°C). Spring is another great time to visit Venice, with milder temperatures, fewer crowds, and blooming flowers and greenery. You can enjoy outdoor events and festivals like the Festa della Sensa in May. However, the weather can be unpredictable, and the city can be crowded during Easter and other holidays.
Winter
During the day, temperatures can range from the mid-40s to the mid-50s°F (around 7°C to 13°C), and at night, they can drop to the mid-30s to low 40s°F (around 1°C to 5°C). Winter is the off-season in Venice, with fewer tourists, lower prices, and a quieter atmosphere. You can enjoy the holiday decorations and ice-skating at Campo San Polo. However, the weather can be cold, wet, and gloomy, and some attractions may have reduced hours or be closed for the season.
Overall, the best time to visit Venice is during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall, when the weather is mild, and the crowds are fewer. However, each season has its own unique charm, so it’s up to you to decide when to visit based on your preferences and interests.
Interesting facts about Venice
Built on water: Venice is built on a group of 118 small islands separated by canals and connected by over 400 bridges.
No cars: Venice is unique in the fact that it is a completely pedestrian city, with no cars or roads.
Oldest republic: Venice was an independent republic for over 1,000 years, from 697 to 1797, making it one of the oldest republics in the world.
Masks and costumes: Venice is famous for its elaborate masks and costumes worn during the annual Carnival celebration, which dates back to the 12th century.
Floods: Venice is prone to frequent flooding due to its low-lying location and rising sea levels. In 1966, the city experienced a devastating flood that reached a depth of 6 feet in some areas.
Gondolas: Gondolas, the traditional Venetian boats used for transportation and tourism, are built by hand and can cost up to $40,000.
Vaporetti: In addition to gondolas, Venice has a public transportation system of water buses called vaporetti, which are a convenient way to get around the city.
Bridges: Venice has over 400 bridges, including the famous Rialto Bridge and the Bridge of Sighs.
St. Mark’s Basilica: St. Mark’s Basilica, one of Venice’s most famous landmarks, is decorated with over 85,000 square feet of gold mosaics.
How much time to spend in Venice
If you’re a first-time visitor to Venice, spending two days in the city is a good start. With two days, you’ll have enough time to explore the main landmarks, such as St. Mark’s Square and Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, and take a gondola ride on the Grand Canal. You can also wander the narrow streets and bridges and discover the charm of the city’s hidden corners. Two days will give you a taste of the city’s unique atmosphere and its vibrant culture.
If you have three or more days in Venice, you can explore more of the city’s hidden gems, such as the Jewish Ghetto, the Rialto Market, and the Peggy Guggenheim Collection. You can also take a day trip to the nearby islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello, or explore the Venetian Lagoon. With more time, you can also indulge in the city’s delicious cuisine, from cicchetti (small Venetian dishes) to fresh seafood, and try local wines.
If you only have one day in Venice, you can still experience some of the city’s highlights. Start by visiting St. Mark’s Square and Basilica, and then explore the Doge’s Palace and the Bridge of Sighs. Take a gondola ride on the Grand Canal and wander the streets to discover the city’s unique atmosphere. You may not be able to see everything in one day, but you’ll get a glimpse of the city’s beauty and charm.
2 Day Venice Itinerary for first time visitors
Day 1
St. Mark’s Square & Campanile di San Marco
Start your day with a stroll around St. Mark’s Square, the heart of Venice. Admire the architecture of the surrounding buildings, including the iconic Campanile di San Marco. Admission to the square is free, but there may be a fee to enter the Basilica or climb the Campanile.
St. Mark’s Basilica
Next, visit St. Mark’s Basilica, one of the most famous landmarks in Venice. The cathedral is renowned for its intricate mosaics and Byzantine architecture. Admission is free, but there may be a fee to enter the Treasury or Museum. Hours of operation vary by season, but generally, the basilica is open from 9:30am to 5pm or 5:30pm.
Doge’s Palace
After visiting the Basilica, head to the Doge’s Palace, located nearby. This stunning Gothic palace was once the residence of the Doge, the ruler of Venice. Visitors can tour the palace’s opulent rooms and admire the artwork on display. Admission is around €20, and hours of operation are from 8:30am to 7pm.
Don’t miss the chance to cross the Bridge of Sighs, located just outside the Doge’s Palace. Legend has it that the bridge earned its name from the sighs of prisoners who were led across it to their cells. Admission is included in the ticket for the Doge’s Palace.
Rialto Bridge
After lunch, head to the Rialto Bridge, the oldest bridge spanning the Grand Canal. Admire the stunning views of the canal and the surrounding buildings from the bridge’s arches.
Gondola ride
Take a gondola ride along the Grand Canal to see Venice from the water. Prices vary, but expect to pay around €80 for a 30-minute ride. Gondolas can be found throughout the city, but the most popular spots to embark are near St. Mark’s Square and the Rialto Bridge.
For lunch, consider trying some local specialties like seafood risotto or Venetian cicchetti (small plates). Osteria Bancogiro and Trattoria da Remigio are both highly recommended options.
For dinner, head to Al Covo or Antiche Carampane for some delicious seafood dishes.
Day 2
Vaporetto Ride
Start your day by exploring the canals of Venice. Take a water taxi or a vaporetto (public water bus) to see some of the city’s most picturesque waterways. Be sure to stop at the Ponte dell’Accademia for a great photo opportunity.
La Fenice
Next, visit Teatro La Fenice, one of the most famous opera houses in the world. Take a guided tour to learn about the theater’s history and see the ornate interior. Admission is around €15, and tours are offered daily from 9:30am to 6pm.
Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute
After the theater, head to the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute, located at the mouth of the Grand Canal. This impressive church features a dome and stunning artwork. Admission is free, and hours of operation are from 9am to 12pm and 3pm to 5:30pm.
For lunch, head to Cantina do Spade for some delicious pasta dishes or try some Venetian-style pizza at Il Refolo.
For dinner, try some Venetian-style seafood at Osteria da Fiore or Trattoria Al Gazzettino.
Restaurants in Venice
Here are other options for lunch in Venice:
Osteria Al Squero: This cozy restaurant located in the Dorsoduro district of Venice serves delicious, traditional Venetian cuisine such as seafood risotto and cuttlefish ink pasta. Address: Dorsoduro, 943-944, 30123 Venezia VE, Italy. Hours: 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM, 7:30 PM to 10:30 PM (closed on Wednesdays).
Trattoria da Fiore: This family-run restaurant near the Rialto Bridge offers an excellent selection of fresh seafood, handmade pasta, and delicious desserts. Address: Calle del Scaleter, 2202, 30125 Venezia VE, Italy. Hours: 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM, 7:00 PM to 10:30 PM (closed on Wednesdays).
Osteria Ai Do Farai: Located in the Castello district of Venice, this restaurant serves up traditional Venetian dishes using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Address: Salizada del Pignater, 4864, 30122 Venezia VE, Italy. Hours: 12:00 PM to 2:30 PM, 7:00 PM to 10:30 PM (closed on Mondays).
Ristorante Alle Testiere: This intimate restaurant in the San Marco district of Venice is known for its delicious seafood dishes and excellent wine selection. Address: Calle del Mondo Novo, 5801, 30122 Venezia VE, Italy. Hours: 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM, 7:00 PM to 10:30 PM (closed on Sundays and Mondays).
La Zucca: This vegetarian-friendly restaurant located near the San Stae vaporetto stop offers a variety of delicious meat-free dishes such as pumpkin soup, risotto with artichokes and parmesan, and vegetable lasagna. Address: Santa Croce, 1762, 30135 Venezia VE, Italy. Hours: 12:00 PM to 2:30 PM, 7:00 PM to 10:30 PM (closed on Tuesdays).
Here are great restaurants for dinner in Venice, along with their type of food, address, and hours of operation:
Ristorante da Ivo – This elegant restaurant is located in the Castello neighborhood and offers classic Venetian dishes, as well as seafood and pasta. Address: Castello, 4928, 30122 Venice Italy. Hours: Open daily from 12:30pm-2:30pm and 7pm-10:30pm.
Osteria Enoteca ai Artisti – This cozy osteria in the Cannaregio neighborhood offers traditional Venetian cuisine and an extensive wine list. Address: Cannaregio, 130, 30121 Venice Italy. Hours: Open daily from 12pm-2:30pm and 7pm-10:30pm.
Trattoria da Remigio – This family-run trattoria in the Castello neighborhood offers homemade Venetian dishes, including seafood and pasta. Address: Castello, 3416, 30122 Venice Italy. Hours: Open Monday to Saturday from 12:30pm-2:30pm and 7pm-10:30pm.
Osteria Alla Frasca – This rustic osteria in the San Polo neighborhood offers traditional Venetian cuisine, including seafood, meat dishes, and pasta. Address: San Polo, 2558, 30125 Venice Italy. Hours: Open daily from 12pm-2:30pm and 7pm-10:30pm.
