3-Day Venice Itinerary: Relaxation, City Experiences, and Nature on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: Exploring Historic Venice

Venice, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pasticceria Rosa Salva

Start your day with a delicious cornetto and an espresso at this beloved bakery renowned for its pastries.
Located in the San Marco area, easily walkable.
EUR3, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit St. Mark's Basilica

Marvel at the intricate mosaics and stunning architecture of St. Mark's Basilica.
A gentle 10-minute walk from the bakery.
EUR5 (donation), optional guided audio tour for EUR10, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Doge's Palace

Discover the rich history and spectacular artwork in the opulent rooms of Doge's Palace.
Located adjacent to St. Mark's Basilica.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Osteria Al Gatto Nero

Savour local Venetian cuisine without breaking the bank at this charming trattoria in Burano.
Take the Vaporetto to Burano, around 30 minutes.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore Burano Island

Take in the vibrant colours, charming canals, and lace shops of Burano, a true hidden gem.
Stroll around this small island on foot, everything is close.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Vaporetto Ride Back

Enjoy a scenic Vaporetto ride back to Venice, soaking in the beauty of the lagoon.
From Burano back to Venice, Vaporetto service available.
EUR7, 30 minutes

4:00PM

Meander the Streets of Venice

Wander through the charming, narrow streets, discovering local shops and unique views.
Explore at your leisure.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Osteria ai 4 Feri

Enjoy a delightful meal of traditional cicchetti (Venetian tapas) at this local favourite.
A short walk from your previous location.
EUR12, 1 hour
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Day 2: Cultural Immersion

Venice, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Caffè Florian

Experience a lavish breakfast in one of Europe’s oldest cafés, situated in St. Mark's Square.
Located in St. Mark's Square, convenient for morning exploration.
EUR7, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Gallerie dell'Accademia

See beautiful Venetian art in this renowned gallery, showcasing works from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance.
A 20-minute walk from Caffè Florian.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Walking Tour of the Jewish Ghetto

Join a free walking tour to delve into the fascinating history of Venice’s Jewish community.
Nearby the ghetto, easily explored on foot.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Pizzeria da Michele

Indulge in a delicious pizza made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
A 15-minute walk from the Jewish Ghetto.
EUR10, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Rialto Market

Explore the bustling Rialto Market, vibrant with fresh produce and local flavours.
Just a 10-minute walk from the pizzeria.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Photos at the Rialto Bridge

Capture lovely shots from the iconic Rialto Bridge, a must-see landmark.
Adjacent to the market.
Free, 30 minutes

4:00PM

Gondola Ride

Experience a classic gondola ride through the scenic canals of Venice on a budget by sharing a gondola.
Gondola stations are close to the Rialto Bridge.
EUR20, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Dinner at Trattoria Antiche Carampane

Toast your day with a sumptuous meal of local favourites in a cozy trattoria.
A 15-minute walk from the gondola stop.
EUR25, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Nature Escape and Day Trip

Lake Garda, Italy

7:00AM

Quick Breakfast at Accommodation

Fuel up with a simple breakfast to prepare for your day excursion.
Grab something quick from your place of stay.
EUR5, 30 minutes

8:00AM

Train to Peschiera del Garda

Embark on a train journey from Venezia Santa Lucia to Peschiera del Garda, appreciating the scenic landscapes.
A 30-minute walk to the train station.
EUR15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Arrive at Peschiera del Garda

Step off the train and enjoy the tranquil lakeside view awaiting you.
Take a short walk towards the lakeshore.
Free, 30 minutes

9:30AM

Explore Fortifications

Visit the historical fortifications at Peschiera, a UNESCO World Heritage site, perfect for history enthusiasts.
Accessible on foot from the lakeside.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Boat Ride on Lake Garda

Enjoy a gentle boat ride on the lake, admiring its stunning beauty.
Board the boat at Peschiera's dock.
EUR10, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Ristorante Al Gondolier

Dine on fresh, local fish as your lunch at this charming lakeside restaurant.
A short walk from the dock area.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Sirmione

Head to the beautiful town of Sirmione, famed for its picturesque streets and thermal baths.
Accessible by bus or ferry from Peschiera.
EUR12, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Sirmione

Wander the lovely streets, visiting Grottoes of Catullus for breathtaking lake views.
Within walking distance in Sirmione.
EUR6 (entry fee for site), 2 hours

4:30PM

Return to Peschiera

Take the ferry back to Peschiera to return to Venice.
Board at Sirmione's ferry terminal.
EUR12, 1 hour

5:30PM

Train Back to Venice

Reboard the train and reflect on your lovely nature outing at Lake Garda.
Peschiera train station.
EUR15, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Osteria ai 4 Feri

End your Venice adventure with a delicious meal at this cozy eatery, enjoying final moments in the city.
A short walk from your accommodation.
EUR15, 1.5 hours
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