Start your visit to Venice at the splendid St. Mark's Square. This famous square is the heart of Venice and is dominated by the stunning Basilica di San Marco, which houses an array of beautiful mosaics and artistic treasures. Walk around the square's arcades and relax at one of the cafes while people-watching. Visit the Doge's Palace, a Gothic masterpiece that was once the seat of the Venetian Republic or take a gondola ride along the Grand Canal for stunning views of the palaces.
Begin your day at the vibrant Rialto Market, which is one of the oldest and most famous markets in Venice. Here you can sample fresh seafood, vegetables, and fruits. Explore the narrow alleys of the market and shopping arcade that dates back to the 16th century for an authentic Venetian shopping experience. Then cross the Rialto Bridge to admire the Grand Canal views and visit the nearby Fondaco dei Tedeschi for luxury shopping and spectacular views from the rooftop terrace.
Island hop to the nearby islands of Venice, starting with the colourful island of Burano, known for its picturesque houses and expertly crafted lacework. Then head to the quaint island of Torcello, and admire the ancient Byzantine mosaics and visit the stunning Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta. End your island tour at the charming island of Murano, the world-famous glass-making hub, where you can visit various workshops and watch the skilled artisans at work.
Getting around Venice is mainly on foot or by water taxi (Vaporetto) or gondola ride, which can be pricey. A Vaporetto pass that is valid for 72 hours, such as the Venice Connected pass, is recommended for budget travellers. The Venice Connected pass allows unlimited usage of Vaporetto lines, public transport, and airport transfers at a reasonable price of €43.
If you have an extra day, consider taking a day trip to the nearby picturesque town of Bassano del Grappa or visiting the scenic vineyards and wine tasting in the Prosecco region. For those with less time, we recommend skipping a visit to Murano Island and instead exploring Cannaregio, the largest and most authentic of Venice's six districts.
Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE) is the main airport, located 16 km northeast of the city. It is well-connected to the city centre by water taxis or bus services with a travel time of approximately 1 hour. Another airport nearby is Treviso Airport (TSF), located 30 km northwest from the city, which is served mainly by low-cost airlines.