2 Days in Venice, Italy: A Perfect Venice Itinerary for First-Timers

With just 2 days in Venice, you might feel like you’re cutting it close… Can you really get to know this magical city in just 48 hours? Find the best restaurants? Have time to wander the quaint and colorful corners of Venice? To grab a canal-side table at a local bar, sip on a Select spritz, and simply enjoy it?

Well, with this Venice itinerary at your fingertips, the answer to all those questions is yes.

After many successful trips to Venice, I’ve curated the ultimate guide!

Want to discover the best neighborhoods to explore? Authentic bacari (Venetian bars) for cicchetti (Venetian tapas)? The most delicious seafood restaurants? Guided historical tours you can’t miss? Unique experiences? The coolest wine bars? This 2 Days in Venice Itinerary has it all.

Ready for a quick but incredible trip to Venice? Below, you’ll find the best things to do in Venice, where to eat, where to stay, and some must-know travel tips!

2-Day Venice Itinerary: Quick Overview

How to Get to Venice

Before we dive into the fun stuff, let’s talk about how to get to Venice. 

Transportation in Venice can be busy, hectic, and confusing, especially during peak season. Not to mention, Venice itself is a maze. So, before you arrive, make a plan. 

Here’s some quick, must-know information to get you started. 

Arriving Via Airplane

Two airports service Venice: Marco Polo Airport (VCE) and Treviso Airport (TSF).

Marco Polo Airport

Marco Polo Airport (VCE) is the closest, most convenient airport. Once you land, I recommend taking either the water bus or a water taxi.

• Water bus: Boarding a water bus (or vaporetto) operated by Alilaguna is my preferred way to get from the airport to Venice! There are three different lines to choose from, servicing the islands of Venice, Lido, Murano, and beyond. Research the timetables and your ideal route in advance. Here are Alilaguna’s lines map and timetable. It’s €15 for a one-way ticket, or €27 roundtrip. You can purchase your tickets online (recommended) or at the kiosk when you arrive. Once you arrive at the water bus stop closest to your hotel, you’ll walk the rest of the way. 
• Water taxi: If you want a no-fuss option, hop on a private water taxi. It’ll drop you off as close to your hotel as possible. This is the most expensive, fast, and comfortable option. Expect to pay €110 to the city center, for up to 4 people; the more luggage or people, the higher the price. (Up to 8 people, with luggage, can fit in a water taxi.)
• Land taxis and buses: Car taxis and buses to Piazzale Roma (a station in Venice accessible by ground motor vehicles) are available from the airport. However, I don’t recommend either one, since, most likely, you’ll still need a water bus or water taxi when you arrive at Piazzale Roma.

Treviso Airport

Another option is to fly into Treviso Airport (TSF). This airport is mostly serviced by low-cost airlines flying within the EU.

The easiest way to get to Venice from Treviso Airport is to take the 10-minute bus to Treviso Centrale train station, then take the 30-minute train to Venezia Santa Lucia station. From there, you can take a water bus or water taxi, or walk, to your hotel.

I’ve done this before, and it was super easy! You can book your bus-train combo ticket via Trenitalia.

Arriving Via Train

Some of the most popular direct train routes into Venice include Verona, Milan, Bologna, Florence, and Rome. Direct train fares can be as low as €10. 

When booking your train tickets, choose Stazione di Venezia Santa Lucia as your final destination (not Venezia Mestre). Venezia Santa Lucia is on the island of Venice; from there, you can take a water taxi or water bus, or walk, to your hotel.

I recommend booking your train tickets directly through the Trenitalia website or app.

Arriving Via Bus

Bussing to Venice from another city in Italy? Choose the Venice Tronchetto bus station as your final destination (instead of Mestre). From there, hop on a water bus or walk. Plan your route ahead of time!

I recommend using this website to book buses in Italy and across Europe. 

HOT TIP: Download the Google Maps app on your phone and “save” your hotel’s location so you can find it when you arrive. It will show you your location, even if you don’t have cell service. I also recommend getting an eSIM for your phone, so you have cheap mobile data throughout your Italy trip!

Where to Stay in Venice

With only two days in Venice, it’s wise to stay in the San Marco area.

Even though San Marco is the busiest, most touristy district, it offers an easily accessible, central location, setting you up perfectly for a hassle-free 48 hours in Venice. 

San Marco is where the city’s main “highlights” and best hotels are located. It’s also where most guided tours begin. 

However, if you don’t mind a little extra walking, my absolute favorite neighborhood is Cannaregio! It’s peaceful in the daytime and home to some of the city’s coolest bars, best restaurants, and vibrant, local nightlife. Plus, it’s way more affordable!

Best Hotels in Venice

Here are my top recommendations for Venice accommodations, in every price range! However, in the high season, Venice is expensive no matter which price range you choose.

And by the way, make sure you book two or three nights (depending on your train/plane schedules); this ensures you’ll have at least two full days in Venice.

Ultra-Luxury ($$$$)

• The Gritti Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel (in San Marco)
• Baglioni Hotel Luna, Leading Hotels of the World (in San Marco)
• The St. Regis Venice (in San Marco)

Affordable Luxury ($$$)

• NH Collection Grand Hotel Palazzo dei Dogi (in Cannaregio)
• Ai Patrizi di Venezia (in San Marco)
• PALAZZO PIANCA (in San Marco)
• San Teodoro Palace Luxury Apartments (in San Marco)

Mid-Range ($$)

• Carnival Palace (in Cannaregio) – this is my top pick!
• Hotel Gorizia a La Valigia (in San Marco)
• Palazzo del Giglio (in San Marco)
• Hotel Bartolomeo (in San Marco)

Budget ($)

• B&B Casa Baseggio (in Cannaregio)
• Hotel Casa Boccassini (in Cannaregio)

HOT TIP: Most hotels in Venice are small and sell out way in advance. If you don’t plan ahead, you’ll be forced to pay top dollar or stay in an undesirable location. Book now! Most hotels on this website offer free cancellation.

Day 1 of 2 Days in Venice

Phew! Logistics out of the way, let’s dive into the ultimate 2-day Venice itinerary. Here are the best things to do in Venice in 2 days! 

Note: This Venice itinerary assumes you arrived the evening before, ready to kickstart your first full day in Venice by 8 AM. Feel free to reshuffle it accordingly!

Tour of St. Mark’s Square, St. Mark’s Basilica & Doge’s Palace

Kick off your first day in Venice with this Legendary Venice Tour: St. Mark’s Basilica with Terrace Access & Doge’s Palace. 

On this top-rated small group tour, you’ll dive deep into Venetian history as you explore the city’s two most iconic (and most magnificent!) structures: St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace. And, luckily, the tour comes with skip-the-line access, so you won’t waste any time!

St. Mark’s Basilica, constructed in the 9th century, is one of the most over-the-top cathedrals I’ve ever seen. The millions upon millions of gold mosaic tiles, captivating tessellated tile floors, five-domed ceiling, and priceless Byzantine treasures (like the four bronze horses!) – and the stories behind them – blew my mind.

The special-access panoramic view from St. Mark’s Terrace, of St. Mark’s Square and beyond, was just the cherry on top!

Must-Know Tips for the Basilica & Palace

• Dress conservatively for this tour. Your shoulders and knees must be covered to enter St. Mark’s Basilica! Ladies, I suggest bringing a light scarf or a light linen shirt to cover your shoulders and wearing a long flowy dress!
• Book this tour first thing in the morning on Day 1! It’s only 3 hours long, so you’ll have plenty of time afterward to see the city itself. Click here to book your small group tour of St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace.
• If you book the “Exclusive Entry Doge’s Palace” option at 8 AM, you’ll enter Doge’s Palace an hour before it opens! You’ll see the palace’s opulent chambers, quiet hallways, stunning frescoes, and creepy prisons – and walk through the Bridge of Sighs – without any crowds. I thought it was 100% worth spending the extra $10 per person. Click here to book it.

St. Mark’s Bell Tower

See the Grand Canal

Next on the list of Venice highlights is none other than the Grand Canal! The Grand Canal snakes its way through the center of Venice – needless to say, there’s a lot happening.

Make your way from St. Mark’s Square through the busy streets of the San Marco neighborhood until you reach the Rialto Bridge on the Grand Canal.

Go slowly… Well, as slowly as the dense crowds will allow. Check out the souvenir shops, take in your surroundings, and people-watch. Pop into a bakery. Enjoy it. Even though it’s busy, it is beautiful.

Cross the Rialto Bridge

What’s all the fuss about this bridge? The Rialto Bridge?

Built in the 16th century, the Rialto Bridge is the oldest bridge spanning the Grand Canal. A grand feat of engineering from the Renaissance era, the Rialto is Venice’s most famous (and busiest) arched bridge.

Halfway across, stop to watch the chaos unfold below, and snap a photo or two. This bird’s-eye view of the narrowest part of the Grand Canal is pretty epic!

Hungry yet? Cross the Rialto Bridge and you’ll find yourself in the San Polo neighborhood. The crowds will begin to thin, and you’ll be on your way to a traditional, tasty Venetian snack time!

Try Some Cicchetti

Next up on your 2-Day Venice Itinerary, it’s time to begin your search for authentic Venetian food. Which of course, means cicchetti! 

Cicchetti are little snacks served in traditional bàcari (bars) in Venice. You eat cicchetti with your fingers, alongside a glass of wine, and usually, while standing… Yes, kind of like Spanish tapas!

We’ll visit many bàcari over the next two days – but let’s start with the most legendary, shall we?

Stroll through San Polo until you find Cantina Do Mori. It’s been there since 1462, making it one of the oldest, most traditional bars in Venice! Walk up to the counter, point to what looks best, and order a glass of local wine too. 

By the way, this is just a pre-lunch snack. Save some room, okay?

NOTE: If discovering authentic Venetian food is at the top of your list, you’re in the right place! My 2-Day Venice Itinerary is packed with foodie recommendations. Plus, tomorrow night, we’re going on this Eat Like a Local: 3-hour Venice Small-Group Food Tasting Walking Tour!

Rialto Market

Around the corner from Cantina do Mori and the Rialto Bridge, you’ll find the Rialto Market (Mercato di Rialto). 

This bustling, centuries-old fish and fresh fruit market is a kaleidoscope of colors, sounds, and smells. It’s popular among locals and travelers alike; make sure to stroll through as you explore the San Polo neighborhood.

Note: It’s closed on Sundays!

Lunch at a Traditional Venetian Restaurant

Ready for a delicious Venetian-style seafood lunch? By now, it should be around 1:30 PM, which means it’s time to eat (again)!

Slowly meander your way through San Polo, and over to the quaint neighborhood of Cannaregio. Then, take your pick between Trattoria Bar Pontini and Al Mariner. Either way, you can’t go wrong! 

What to order? Start with a Select spritz (which is from Venice!) or an Aperol spritz to cool off. 

Then, get a mixed seafood antipasto platter or a fried mixed seafood plate (fritto misto). 

And finally, dive into traditional Venetian seafood pasta dishes, like spaghetti alla bùsera and spaghetti with black cuttlefish ink! 

My fiancé claimed that his spaghetti allo scoglio – with fresh tomatoes, garlic, mussels, clams, and prawns – at Pontini was the best seafood dish he’d had in six months. (We love seafood, so this was quite the proclamation!)

Roam the Quieter Side of Venice

You’ll quickly grow tired of the crowds in the touristy parts of Venice. (I do anyway.)

So rather than heading back to San Marco, explore the quieter, more authentic districts; in particular, Cannaregio and the edges of San Polo.

Roam the quaint streets. Take lots of photos! Check out the vintage shops and discover the workshops where artisans still craft Venetian Carnival masks and gondolas the traditional way, by hand. Explore the 16th-century Jewish Ghetto. Then, choose one of the many local bars lining the quaint streets, find a table in the sunshine, and enjoy a chilled glass of local white wine.

HOT TIP: On this guided walking tour, called The Real Hidden Venice, you will discover some of Venice’s hidden gems and most authentic neighborhoods. You’ll learn about the history of the Jewish Ghetto, Cannaregio, and San Polo as you explore the quiet canals. Click here to book your tour of the Real Hidden Venice.

Dinner in Cannaregio

It’s time for dinner! And Il Paradiso Perduto is the perfect place. (Well, as long as you made a reservation… Hint, hint.)

At this lively traditional Venetian restaurant, it’s all about seafood. The daily menu is only printed in Italian (which I love!), so I hope you’ve been studying your food vocabulary. But either way, no matter what you choose, you can’t go wrong. 

Last time, we ordered the antipasto misto di pesce to start. Then, two plates of homemade bigoli pasta; one spicy scampi alla busara and one nero di seppia.

You’re going to love this place! It’s always busy though, so don’t expect the quickest service ever. 

HOT TIP: Want a printable PDF copy of this Venice itinerary? Get yours here!

Wine at Vino Vero 

Down the street, you’ll find Vino Vero, the coolest natural wine bar in Venice. You’ll love the lively atmosphere, the music, and the amazing local wine…

Honestly, I wouldn’t be surprised if you came here more than once during your two days in Venice!

After you’ve ordered a glass (ask the bartender for recommendations!), snag a seat at an al fresco table, or find a spot along the canal to sit/stand, and enjoy!

Then, get to bed! We have another early morning ahead. 

Day 2 of 2 Days in Venice

Ready for your second day in Venice? Today, sail over to the vibrant islands of Murano and Burano, have some cicchetti, explore more of Venice, go on a food tour, and finish with a gondola ride!

Explore the Venetian Lagoon: Murano & Burano

You know those super colorful islands near Venice that you’ve seen on Instagram? Well, you’re about to explore them in real life.

Kickstart Day 2 with an early wake-up call for this Murano & Burano Islands Small Group Tour by Boat! 

On this fun half-day tour, you’ll cruise the Venetian Lagoon in a private boat (just for your small group) to reach two of the region’s most quaint and colorful islands: Murano and Burano. 

Both islands are home to their own unique cultures, laid-back vibes, and ridiculously vibrant streets. You’ll love roaming around, popping into galleries, and taking dozens of photos.

In Murano, you’ll watch glass-blowing masters employing centuries-old techniques to craft some of the most impressive glass art you’ll ever see (yes, seriously, it’s jaw-dropping).

And in Burano, you’ll see nonne (grandmas) making the most beautiful lace, painstakingly, by hand. Truth be told, this is a dying art and an honor to witness.

I loved this tour and I know you will too! Click here to book your Murano & Burano Islands Tour.

HOT TIP: Book the earliest option possible to maximize your day! Ideally, at 8 AM. This tour is 5 hours long, so you’ll return to Venice around lunchtime.

READ MORE: How to Visit Murano and Burano from Venice: The Ultimate Guide

Roam Around Castello & San Marco

Once your boat docks back in the Castello neighborhood, no plan may just be the best plan. 

One of the best ways to get to know Venice is to simply explore.

So roam Castello and San Marco without a map. Get lost along the picturesque canals and quiet backstreets. And relish the magic around every corner. Take lots of photos and pop into some shops.

And stop at a bàcaro for a spritz. Because, well, it’s (probably) hot outside. And you’re on vacation, aren’t you?

If you want a few specific suggestions of where to go, I’ve got you covered…

Go for Cicchetti 

Time for some quick cicchetti and a spritz? Here are some more of my favorite bars nearby San Marco…

• Bar Ai Santi is a great local spot in charming Campo Santi Apostoli. The spritzes are just €4 each… So, enough said!
• Osteria Ai Promessi Sposi is a local joint with lots of scrumptious cicchetti offerings.
• Cantina Do Spade is, according to some, the second-oldest bar in Venice. A delicious, must-visit! 

Eat Pasta To-Go Along the Canals

I’m not usually one for a quick lunch. But sometimes, drastic times (only 2 days in Venice), call for drastic measures (pasta, to-go)!

For lunch in San Marco, opt for Dal Moro’s. They serve fresh, handmade pasta to order, in a to-go box. You choose your sauce, your pasta shape, and your toppings. And don’t be shy: throw a mini bottle of wine or bellini onto your tab.

It may not be the most aesthetically pleasing lunch, but it’s convenient, delicious, and comes out to about €10 or €12.

Savor a Delicious Gelato

Hot or cold weather, who cares? It’s time for a quick gelato stop. Because you can’t go a day in Italy without at least one gelato… Or at least I can’t!

Years ago, I found a little gelateria called Gelatoteca Suso, which will forever and always be my go-to gelato shop in Venice. It’s so good.

Since then, it’s become quite popular, so you may have to wait in line for a few minutes – but it’s worth it!

Mm, mmm, mmmm! Delizioso!

For Dinner, Go on a Foodie Tour

Despite what I just said… I hope you didn’t eat too much this afternoon. Because it’s time for your Eat Like a Local: 3-hour Venice Small-Group Food Tasting Walking Tour!

This foodie tour will be a highlight of your Venice trip.

During my tour, we stopped at eight local establishments to taste countless Venetian dishes and delicacies… Including coffee and pastries, seafood cicchetti, mixed fried seafood, sarde in soar (a sweet and sour sardine dish), homemade pasta with shrimp, tramezzini (little sandwiches), red wine from Veneto, gelato, and so much more.  

Along the way, our local guide, Martina, told us about Venetian food, culture, and history, pointed out interesting sights, and shared her palpable love of Venice with us.

By the end of the tour, we were (happily) stuffed – and ready for one final activity in Venice…

Click here to book your Eat Like a Local: 3-hour Venice Small-Group Food Tasting Walking Tour!

Note: Book the latest available food tour (either the 5 or 5:45 PM). That way, you’ll have time to fit everything else in!

Take a Sunset Gondola Ride

I saved one of the most iconic (read: touristy) things to do in Venice for last!

They say Venice is best explored by the canals… And I agree. If it’s your first time in Venice, a gondola ride is a must-do. 

If you want to experience this quintessentially Venetian activity, plan to hop aboard after your food tour, between golden hour and dusk; this is the most magical – albeit, the most expensive – time to go for a gondola ride.

(And, trust me, if you’re visiting between June and September, generally, it’s too hot to enjoy a gondola ride between 9 AM and 7 PM; you’ll just sit there sweating.)

Simply type “gondola station” into your Google Maps app to find the closest boarding point.

HOT TIP: Don’t go with the first gondolier you see! Talk to them. See if they’re friendly and in a good mood (boating tourists around all day in the hot sun is exhausting work). Ask them which route they take. Ideally, you want to explore a small portion of the Grand Canal, while cruising through some quieter areas too. If you’re not feeling it, don’t be afraid to say no thanks and keep on walking.

How much does a gondola ride cost?

In 2024, the official, fixed price for a 30-minute gondola ride is €90 (per group, up to 5 people). After 7 PM, the price goes up to €110 per 30 minutes. Cash only! These official prices are non-negotiable.

In my opinion, 30 minutes goes by too quickly, so I recommend going for 45 minutes to an hour. For longer rides, the price goes up proportionately (i.e. 45 minutes costs €135 before 7 PM or €165 after); however, if it’s not too busy, you might be able to negotiate a slightly lower price.

HOT TIP: If you want to, you can usually bring a bottle of wine or some to-go cocktails along for the ride. Just ask your gondoliere before you hop on if it’s okay; their gondola, their rules!

2 Days in Venice: Ultimate First-Timer’s Venice Itinerary

Every time I leave Venice, I fall more and more, absolutely and irrevocably, in love with this great, historic city.

How could I (and you) not? With those insanely beautiful canals, warm locals, and incredible restaurants, Venice is a dream.

2 days in Venice is short. But if you follow this Venice itinerary, I think you’ll agree – it’s just enough time to do it all… And feel like you already can’t wait to return.

Alla prossima, Venezia.

Oh… and before you go, find a great deal on Venice accommodation here!

What to Pack for 2 Days in Venice

What you should pack for Venice depends on when you’re visiting! Summer in Venice is very hot and humid, while the winter is quite cold. 

Here are a few top tips for what to pack for Venice:

Warm Weather Packing Tips (May-September)

• Comfy and cute sandals: You’re going to walk a lot during your two days in Venice; bring some cute sandals that you can walk 20,000 steps in, no problem!
• Scarf: Bring a light scarf with you to cover your shoulders for religious sites and to avoid sunburn. 
• Sunhat: A cute sunhat like this is essential in Venice! 
• Flowy summer dresses: In the summer opt for long flowy dresses; you’ll stay cool and always be prepared to enter religious sites.
• Sunscreen: Nothing spoils your trip more than sunburn. Stay protected with a good, natural sunscreen.

Cold Weather Packing Tips (October-April)

• Wool coat: During the colder months a beautiful wool coat is essential. You will fit in with the locals with this one.
• Comfortable boots: You’re going to get your steps in, that’s for sure! Opt for comfortable, stylish boots that you’ve worn in. You can’t go wrong with a smart Chelsea boot, like these.
• Warm hat, gloves, and socks: Seriously, it gets cold in the winter!

General Must-Haves

• Universal travel adapter: This is the best travel adapter! My absolute favorite.
• Comfortable walking shoes: I love these super lightweight sneakers. They’re cute, comfy, and so convenient to pack in your suitcase.
• Reusable water bottle: Remember to keep hydrated during your tours, it can’t all be Aperol and coffee!
• Travel insurance: You should always purchase travel insurance when you travel internationally. The policy I have covers things like medical emergencies, lost luggage, and travel delays. Get your travel insurance here.

2-Day Venice Itinerary FAQs

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Have you been to Venice, Italy before? What are your favorite things to do there? Where are your favorite places to eat?