What to See in Venice in 2 Days?

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Who says you can’t have a fulfilling experience in just two days in Venice? A short trip can still be extraordinary with the right plan and a spirit of wanderlust. So, exactly what to see in Venice in 2 days and how to coordinate it together.

Well, this 2 days in Venice itinerary is perfect for visiting highlights such as St. Mark’s Square, the Rialto Bridge, and more. Also, you’ll get to indulge in local cuisine and explore the canals of Venice on a gondola.

And not to mention the Vaporetto ride along the Grand Canal, and a delightful dinner at Osteria alle Testiere.

Keep reading to find out!

Planning Your 2-Day Trip to Venice

To maximize your 2 days in Venice itinerary, it’s a must that you plan ahead. This includes choosing the best time to visit, understanding the most efficient ways to reach and navigate the city, and selecting accommodations that offer both convenience and comfort.

Here are some tips to help you make the most of your trip:

Best Time to Visit Venice

The best time to visit Venice is during the spring and fall when the weather is pleasant and crowds are fewer.

For instance, you can choose mid-October for your trip, as it marks the start of the off-season. Also, the temperatures stay around a comfortable 70°F (21°C) during this time in Venice each year. Something to note is that fall has a higher chance of rain. And finally, it’s best to avoid any Easter holidays.

Getting to and Around Venice

Traveling to Venice and navigating the city does not have to be complicated; rather, it’s pretty simple if you know the right method.

From flights and trains to Vaporettos and private water taxis, you’ll discover many options to work with your preferences and budget. Such as the following:

• Flying into Venice is an easy task nowadays, with Venice Marco Polo Airport being the main hub. From here, you have several options to reach the city center of Venice. In fact, the land bus to Piazzale Roma is the quickest and most budget-friendly.
• There are vaporettos available easily and they are the most popular way to travel the canals. You simply need to purchase tickets at the stations and use the water bus map to find the route.
• You can also try traveling by train. For that, simply aim for Stazione di Venezia Santa Lucia. This train station in Venice is right on the island. So, it’s quite easy to hop off and navigate to your hotel.
• For a more direct trip, you can also opt for a private water taxi.
• Venice is wonderfully walkable. In fact, most attractions are clustered in the heart of the city. Therefore, if you are thinking of walking, make sure to use Google Maps, as it will help in safer navigation of the maze-like streets.

Accommodation Tips in Venice

Finding the perfect place to stay in Venice could be tricky for a first-time visitor. Probably due to its unique layout. Here are some handy tips to help you pick the best accommodation for your short stay:

• Venice’s top hotels fill up quickly. Hence, book as soon as you know your travel dates to avoid high prices and limited options.
• As this is going to be a short visit, consider staying in areas that are quite close to the main attractions. So, you can easily minimize travel time.
• For cheaper options, focus on a peaceful atmosphere and easy access to the city of Venice, in addition to great value for money.
• For mid-range options, prioritize having a good location, comfortable rooms, and cooperative staff.
• If opting for luxury hotels, look for enchanting décor and peaceful outer space for good photos, along with comfortable arrangements such as a spa.
• Some also consider Airbnb for a more local experience. Make sure the place is clean, located in a safe neighborhood, and comfortably distanced from the tourist center.

A 2-Day Venice Itinerary with Best Things to See, Do, & Eat in Venice

Venice, the city of canals and romance, is a place that truly feels like a dream.

Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just someone looking to soak up the unique atmosphere, this 2-day itinerary will ensure you experience the best Venice has to offer. They are as follows:

Day 1 at the Heart of Venice

To begin with, consider starting your Day 1 in Venice with a visit to St. Mark’s Square and the Basilica. Afterward, you can enjoy a memorable Venetian lunch before taking a cruise on the Grand Canal.

You might also explore the Rialto Bridge and Market, wander through the streets of San Polo, and end the day with a lavish dinner at a popular Venetian restaurant.

Start with St. Mark’s Square & Basilica, and Doge’s Palace

You can begin your Venice adventure at St. Mark’s Square, which is the hot spot of the city. Known as Piazza San Marco, it is a quite iconic square that is home to two of the must-see landmarks here. These are St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace.

You can try out your morning coffee at a nearby café here. However, keep in mind that prices here can be slightly higher than elsewhere.

Next, you should head to St. Mark’s Basilica. This spot dates back to the 9th century. And, it is a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture.

Now to avoid long lines, it’s best to book your tickets at least a week in advance. You should also consider an audio travel guide app that will give you a richer experience.

Lunch at a Traditional Venetian Restaurant Nearby

Next, it’s time to enjoy a delightful lunch in a traditional Venetian restaurant. There are so many delicious spots around San Marco that are perfect for savoring local cuisine and people-watching.

For instance, you can try Ai Do Leoni. It’s a cozy eatery that’s just a few steps from St. Mark’s Basilica. You will find appetizing sandwiches, pasta, and coffee.

If you prefer a more laid-back meal, consider trying Osteria Enoteca San Marco. This restaurant is known for its exceptional food and wine.

There is also an option for expensive lunches that serve traditional Venetian food. For example, Restaurant Terrazza Danieli offers a rooftop terrace with a stunning view of the city. After lunch, don’t forget to treat yourself to gelato, the traditional Italian frozen dessert.

Take a Vaporetto ride along the Grand Canal

One of the most fantastic and budget-friendly ways to explore Venice is to take a Vaporetto ride along the Grand Canal. For this, you can simply start at the water bus station. It should be next to Ponte dell’Accademia. From there, hop on the No. 1 or No. 2 Vaporetto.

And voila, you are free to enjoy the stunning view of Venice as you glide towards the iconic Rialto Bridge. As you get more captivated by the scenery, you can choose to continue your journey further along the canal.

Some people prefer even longer adventures. In that case, consider heading to Piazzale Roma.

This is where you can easily switch to another water bus. You should find a one-way ticket for not more than 7.50€ or $8.00 and it’s usually valid for 15 minutes of a delightful canal tour of Venice.

Explore The Historic Rialto Bridge and Rialto Market

There are four bridges crossing Venice’s Grand Canal. Among them, the Rialto Bridge in Venice stands out as the most famous one.

Earlier, it used to be a simple wooden bridge. But then, it was replaced with the current stone structure to get its unique Renaissance style. It gracefully features a main stone arch and two arcades lined with souvenir shops.

As you visit the bridge, you’ll notice the spot is quite bustling with tourists. Once you go beyond the bridge, you’ll discover the energetic Rialto Market.

Here in the market, you’ll find a beautiful array of fresh fruits and vegetables. This, of course, comes along with a rich history of merchants in Venice trading spices from around the world.

Rialto Market is open from Monday to Saturday. The fruit and vegetable market operates from 7 AM to 8 PM. On the other hand, the fish market is open from 7 AM to 2 PM. Please note, the fish market is closed on Sundays and Mondays.

Wander Through the Charming Streets of San Polo

As soon as you step off the famous Rialto Bridge, you’ll next enter the fascinating San Polo district. You’ll notice that the crowds have gradually gone down. And that’s why, the atmosphere feels much more relaxed during this hour.

This is a perfect occasion to try out some of the best authentic Venetian snacks as you stroll through the area. A little further on, you’ll find the historic Jewish Ghetto. It is a tragic reminder of how Venice is built upon a diverse heritage.

Visit the Stunning Church of Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari

Soon you’ll come across the remarkable Church of Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari, also known as “Frari”.

It is actually pretty close to Campo Santa Margherita. This one is an exclusive masterpiece that also stands as one of the city’s largest churches.

But then again, many tourists do overlook it and go for its more popular alternatives. One good example would be the Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute.

Once you arrive here, make sure to take your time witnessing the detailed architecture and the rich history that drops from each and every corner.

Dinner at a Local Restaurant in San Polo

It’s almost time to wind up the first day. And what better way than to give your appetite a treat with a lavish dinner?

A hot dinner spot would be Caffe San Rocco. It’s a popular local restaurant that is located not too far from the iconic landmarks. You can rest and have a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle.

They serve freshly prepared pizza and drinks. The eatery is known for using locally sourced ingredients. So, it’s quite likely you’ll get a grand, authentic taste of Venetian dining.

The dinner options are also pretty wide-ranging. From mouthwatering seafood pasta to heavenly tiramisu, there are enough items with high quality and rich flavor.

A Romantic Nighttime Gondola Ride Back to the Hotel

There’s nothing more romantic than a nighttime gondola ride back to your hotel in Venice. It’s certainly going to be one of the most unforgettable experiences you’ll have with your loved one in Italy.

With the sun dipping right below the horizon, the canals start to get alive with an irresistible charm. And that’s why evening and nighttime rides are popular in intimate settings. You’ll also find fewer gondolas crowding the waterways.

And if you are lucky enough, they might perhaps offer songs that portray the local side of Venice while you and your better half enjoy the shimmering canals.

The nighttime romantic gondola rides are also known for their exclusive ambiance, with the city’s lights casting a dim glow on the dark waters. The ride would be a perfect conclusion to your day 1 adventure by directly leaving you at your hotel’s dock.

Day 2 Exploration of the City of Dreams & Beyond

For day 2, you’ve got museum visits, a rare but big church to explore, an easy lunch by the Grand Canal, a must-try sunset ride, and some fresh seafood dinner before a calm evening stroll. Let’s get into the detailed plan:

Start Your Morning with Museum Visits

Your next morning in Venice would see the perfect start by paying a visit to the renowned Ca d’Oro. Also, you can actually take a Vaporetto to the spot for an easy commute.

It is also known as the “Golden House,” though the gold accents are almost faded. This palace still proudly possesses one-of-a-kind breathtaking beauty with its stunning Venetian Gothic architecture.

Inside, you will find some of the most remarkable collections of Renaissance art. Beyond the lavishly decorated rooms, you’ll also find the furniture to be quite periodic and vintage.

Wonder at the Iconic Church of Santa Maria della Salute

This church stands proudly at the very entrance of the Grand Canal.

The grand interior attracts visitors the most. Also, it has a striking dome that features on the Venetian skyline quite boldly. And as you enter the octagonal space inside, you’ll find great joy looking at the masterpieces by Titian.

Plus, visiting at noon allows you to enjoy light filtering through large windows – leaving an impression of enchanting patterns that you will keep seeing on the marble floor. You don’t have to pay for the entry. But if you need guided tours, there will be a fee.

Lunch Break Near the Grand Canal

For a great lunch near the Grand Canal, you can head towards Ponte dell’Accademia. Here, you’ll have many options to try –

• There’s the Trattoria ai Cugnai dal 1911, a popular spot that serves tasty Italian food.
• For those who prefer a nice outdoor setting, you can try out Agli Alboretti for delicious pasta, seafood, and fish dishes in their pretty courtyard.
• There’s also an option for a quick meal, as you can easily visit Corner Pub near the Peggy Guggenheim Collection. This place offers coffee, sandwiches, and small plates.

A Scenic Sunset Ride Back to Venice

As you approach the end of your second day in Venice, why not finish it with something truly special? A serene sunset gondola ride, one of the city’s most exquisite amusements.

To take a gondola ride for the sunset experience, you can actually find one near the Grand Canal, close to the Rialto Bridge.

Here you may find smaller canals that usually have shorter lines. For the rides, you may need to spend around €80 or $85 for about 40 minutes.

If you go after 7 pm, the charges will be higher. Always try to agree on the price before you start the ride.

Dinner at Osteria alle Testiere Famous for Fresh Seafood Dishes

For a memorable final meal in Venice, consider dining at Osteria alle Testiere. It is a popular restaurant known for its fresh seafood.

However, keep in mind that this is a small restaurant that has only a few tables. So, it’s a good idea to book ahead. Here, you can enjoy dishes like marinated soft shell crabs, lightly seasoned spider crabs, and perfectly grilled razor clams.

Not to mention, the Adriatic scampi in a tasty broth and baby octopus with gazpacho are their bestsellers.

Take an Evening Stroll & Enjoy the Venetian Nightlife

Time to make the most of your last night in Venice with a serene walk through Cannaregio. It is a peaceful area away from the busy crowds where you can stroll through old-fashioned shops and traditional craftsmen making masks and gondolas.

You can also hop in one of the local bars to try recommended drinks to finish your voyage in style and memory.

Tips for a Memorable Experience in Venice

To make your 2 days in Venice as memorable as possible for a perfect first visit, here are some helpful tips to follow:

• Make sure you try the Aperol Spritz at least once during your trip. This is a cheap, 5 euro or 5.3 dollar per glass fizzy cocktail that is loved by visitors.
• During summer, it’s important to not forget sunscreen and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
• You must pack for the weather appropriately. Think about a stylish wool coat for a winter trip or a flowy dress for summer sightseeing.
• You may be tempted to try the touristy highlights of Venice for dining and drinking. But instead, you should try out the smaller local eateries.
• Those who would like a taste of local life, consider staying in Venice in neighborhoods like San Marco, San Polo, or Dorsoduro.
• When you are buying souvenirs, try to avoid St. Mark’s Plaza, as it’s quite expensive. Instead, it’s best to check out local artists or family-owned shops, like antique stores.
• While strolling, be extra cautious by keeping an eye out for pickpockets.

Read More: Best Things to Do in Venice

Concluding Words

And that’s how you experience the magic of Venice in just a couple of days.

After all, when you know what to see in Venice in 2 days with a well-planned itinerary and important tips and information, things just get a lot easier and more exciting.

Hopefully, you will be able to take back tons of valuable memories from this short-lived trip.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)