Alluring, romantic, and incredibly pretty, Venice is one of those destinations you don’t want to miss for any reason.
The iconic Italian city is home to superb palaces, glorious churches, and a romantic lagoon, as well as so many attractions you can enjoy in the city… all of it is bound to conquer your ability to form words for what you’re seeing and leave you breathless!
While living in Italy for 10 years, Venice was just a short train ride away, so I visited it often and can tell you how to make the most of a short trip.
If you’re heading to the gorgeous city of the gondolas and only have 24 hours to explore the city, then this one-day in Venice itinerary is all you need!
How to Get to Venice
With frequent train connections including Rome, Milan, Naples, Florence, Pisa, and Turin, spending a day in Venice is close at hand if you’re already in Italy.
That not counting other closeby Northern Italy cities, including Vicenza, Verona, and Padua, all of which can be reached with just a short train ride from Venice.
The city is also home to an airport, Marco Polo International, but to get from the airport to the city it’s necessary to plan your transport in advance.
The best solution is to book a water taxi, especially if you are bringing more than just a small bag.
Moving Around in Venice
Maybe the most fun part of any trip to Venice is that you’ll have to (or should I say “get to”?) use means of transport that you wouldn’t normally consider in any other city!
Venice is a pedestrian city made of different islands crossed by canals and connected by bridges — no cars to be found in the inner city!
This means that you’ll either be walking around (a lot) or that taking a vaporetto (a kind of water bus) will be the most affordable and convenient way to move around.
The vaporetto is the most popular means of transport, and it’s not just for tourists: it’s also what the locals will use to reach different corners of the city.
Different lines operate until midnight; however, the lines working at night are limited, and the service isn’t as frequent.
Depending on how much you plan to move around, you can either purchase a day ticket or a single ticket for each trip.
If you think you’ll walk more than you’ll use the vaporetto and don’t plan on using it more than two or three times, single tickets are the cheapest option.
For more details, and prices as well as to learn how to validate the vaporetto ticket, check out their website.
Once you’re ready to book your travel, it also includes a section to purchase tickets online.
Since the vaporetto doesn’t run all night long, a good alternative is a water taxi.
These private rides are a bit more expensive but will take you anywhere, any time of day.
It’s always a good idea to have the phone number of Venice’s local taxi company: 041 522 2303 — save that!
Taxis operate 24 hours a day and prices should be confirmed beforehand, as they might change according to the time of the day and availability.
It’s also possible to enjoy a classic Venice gondola ride, but these can often be quite expensive, so they are more of a tour and a romantic experience than a practical means to move around.
With that said, a gondola ride often includes an itinerary that features the most important sights in the city, such as the Rialto Bridge or the small canal near the Bridge of Sighs.
This particular gondola ride takes you to discover the historic sights along the shoreline, admire marvelous palaces and churches, and explore the romantic secret waterways of Venice.
The ride also includes a glimpse of St. Mark’s Square and the La Fenice Opera House.
It’s no surprise visitors to Venice can be easily overwhelmed by the sheer volume things to do, landmarks to see, museums and churches to visit, streets to walk, and districts to discover.
Although you won’t be able to see all the sestieri (districts) of Venice in a single day, you’ll certainly check out the city highlights if you follow this organized itinerary that packs in quite a lot in a short time!
Take a panoramic Vaporetto ride on the Grand Canal.
If you arrived in Venice by train, after you reach Venice Santa Lucia Station, head towards Rome Square (Piazzale Roma).
This isn’t just the place where buses arrive from the mainland, it’s also where you can catch the most famous vaporetto line in town (Line 1).
On this water bus, you can sail along the Grand Canal and enjoy some incredible views.
Line 1 is considered the most touristic vaporetto ride as it passes near the most iconic Venetian buildings (watch your belongings for pickpockets, here!)
On your way along the canal, you’ll see the Venice Casino building, the impressive Ca’ Pesaro Palace, now an international art gallery, and the Rialto Market.
I suggest getting off the vaporetto at the Rialto Bridge stop right after you have passed under the bridge.
This way, you’ll also be able to walk through some of the most beautiful alleys in town.
Walk across the stunning Rialto Bridge.
Often overcrowded and busy, visiting Rialto Bridge in the early morning is the best idea to avoid crowds, even in winter and the off-season.
You’ll want to go to the top of the bridge for great pictures of the Grand Canal!
If you’re also interested in taking a gondola ride, this is one of the suggested departure points.
The Rialto is one of the four bridges spanning across the Grand Canal to connect the districts of San Marco and San Polo; it’s also the the oldest of them all, first built in 1173
Its original appearance was quite different from the stone bridge you can see today, as it was made of timber.
The bridge underwent different rebuilding and restoration processes over the centuries, until settling in its iconic form that you see today.
The current version and structure date from 1591 and it features two ramps leading to a central portico lined up with (overpriced) souvenir shops.
Walk to Saint Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco).
Follow the street signs that read “To San Marco” for your next stop.
The walk is only about 15 minutes, traversing past some of Venice’s cutest alleys and canals, and it takes you right to the heart of Venice and to its main square.
It’s here at Piazza San Marco that you’ll be astonished by the view of the imposing Saint Mark’s Basilica.
This is the most important church in the city, just next to the Doge’s Palace, with its distinctive pink marble facade.
Also in the square, you’ll find Venice’s tallest tower, which you can climb for spectacular views of the Venice lagoon.
Visit the Saint Mark’s Basilica.
Saint Mark is the most visited church in the city (and one of the most visited in Italy), so the lines tend to be huge.
Booking an advance entrance ticket is key to being able to visit the church without a ridiculous wait.
This experience also includes a tour guide to give you important historic details about the buildings, as well as access to the terrace of Saint Mark’s Basilica.
Book your skip-the-line tour of St. Mark’s & Doge’s Palace here!
Saint Mark’s Basilica is modeled after the sixth-century Church of the Holy Apostles in Constantinople.
As a result, you can find clear Byzantine, Romanesque and Islamic details in its design, as well as unique Gothic elements that were added in later years!
The most important of these are four bronze horses located over the main door of the church, an iconic detail of the church.
Visit Doge’s Palace and the Bridge of Sighs.
The Doge’s Palace, often also called the Duke’s Palace, is attached to the Basilica (which used to work as the Doge’s private chapel — not bad, eh?).
In Venice, between the year 726 and the late 1790s, the doge (or duke) was the chief magistrate and leader of the Republic of Venice.
A typical example of Venetian Gothic architecture, the palace was not only the Doge’s residence, but in later years it also became the seat of Venice’s law courts and prison.
The cells of this political prison were connected to the palace through the famous Bridge of Sighs (or Ponte dei Sospiri), which can be seen on one side of the palace.
The area faces the most beautiful part of the Grand Canal, opposite the imposingly beautiful Santa Maria della Salute Church.
From this area of the Grand Canal, it’s possible to board the vaporetto to visit the small island of Murano, which is a great place for a mini day trip to explore if you’re curious about Venice’s famous glass production.
You could also take a vaporetto to check out the other famous island in the Lagoon, the colorful Burano.
This destination is ideal for those interested in picturesque photo opportunities (Instagrammers, take note!).
Visiting both islands could be quite difficult if you only have a day in Venice. There are half-day tours, but they take up about 5 hours — quite a big chunk of your day.
If you have to pick one, choosing Murano might be easier as it’s closer to the San Marco district, and it’s smaller, which means it will take you less time to visit.
You may also want to skip the outer islands entirely, with only one day in Venice, so you can spend more time exploring the city itself.
Take a scenic gondola ride.
If there’s one thing you wouldn’t want to miss when in Venice, even if just for a day, it has to be a romantic gondola ride!
Even though it can be a bit more on the expensive side, there’s something incredibly romantic about the experience and it’s the best way to see the smaller canals.
Trust me, you’ll see Venice with completely different eyes.
There are different tours available making it easier for those with a more restricted budget, like small group tours instead of private tours.
There are tours lasting just 30 minutes while there are also longer rides, another way to save money while still having the experience of a gondola ride.
Night gondola rides tend to be more expensive, and adding on a serenade can definitely make this quite a costly experience!
To avoid bargaining stress and unpleasant surprises, I suggest booking the ride beforehand.
Food is one of the most genuine cultural expressions, no matter what country you are visiting… but especially Italy.
However, when it comes to Venice, a food tour is the perfect activity if you don’t want to waste precious time at a restaurant, either at lunch or after sunset.
A street food tour guarantees tons of fun moments discovering the city while tasting delicious local staples.
Venice is one of the best cities to learn more about Italian cuisine.
Just trust the knowledge of a local guide who will walk with you to explore the street markets, local bakeries, and other interesting places that mix history with flavor.
This particular food tour is really interesting (and affordable) as it combines a stop at the historic Rialto Market, famous for the fresh fish as well as fruit, veggies, herbs, and spices that locals often use in their kitchens daily.
The walking experience also includes a visit to Basilica dei Frari. Along the way, you’ll taste a wide range of regional cheeses, typical cakes, biscuits, and tiramisù.
The highlight of the tours includes a taste of the cicchetti culture, those Venetian snacks resembling Spanish tapas served in local bars known as bàcari.
Another iconic place that needs to be part of this one day in Venice is the city’s most historic theater, La Fenice (The Phoenix).
This incredibly beautiful opera house was founded back in 1792 and it has had the honor of being the location of the premieres for some of the most important masterpieces of the history of opera.
The site of a complex history, the theater burned to the ground on a cold December night back in 1836, but its importance has always been such that its reconstruction was decided immediately.
Just like the mythical bird, on Saint Sylvester’s night just one year later, the theater rose from its ashes, more beautiful and spectacular than ever before.
It’s a good idea to join an organized tour to check out the backstage and those lesser-known areas of the theater.
Since it is a popular place on the tourist trail of Venice, a skip-the-line ticket can guarantee timed access without wasting time and detailed information provided by an audio guide you can use at your own pace.
Enjoy a sunset by the Grand Canal.
It’s no secret that the best spot for sunsets in Venice is right by the water, where the dark silhouettes of dozens of gondolas, gently rocked by the sea, are illuminated by the last rays of the sun.
For an unforgettable experience, sit at any of the different waterfront cafés that are located in the area to enjoy the last hours of the day before slowly walking your way back to Santa Lucia train station.
If you have more time in Venice, such as if you’re spending the night, you can also read this guide to what to do in Venice at night for more ideas on what to do next.
Gabi is a full-time travel blogger, tour guide, and freelance writer currently living in Crete, Greece. Born in Argentina, Gabi spent a decade of her life living in Milan and traveling around Italy. She is one of two featured Italy experts on Eternal Arrival. She shares her knowledge of Crete and Greece on her blog, The Tiny Book, where she has also published several digital travel guides. She has 25 years of experience in writing and translation. She holds a BA in Languages and Translation, an MA in Translation for Tourism and a degree in Copyediting.
If you’re heading to Venice for your next vacation, you may be wondering what sort of nightlife this city has to offer.
The charming Italian city offers many opportunities for a night out in Venice, from relaxing activities to unique cultural experiences.
Although Venice isn’t exactly a party city, this doesn’t mean you’ll have to head back to your room and call it a night immediately after dinner!
Whether you want to explore the city without the crowds, join a walking tour to learn about its secrets, have a delicious dinner, or enjoy a drink in a beautiful location, there’s plenty of ways to explore Venice at night.
While living in Italy for over 15 years, I visited Venice twice and explored it nearly every hour of the day and night, so I’ve created a list of the best activities you can try in Venice at night.
Be warned, a few of these may require some preparation, like packing your best dress or suit!
Without further ado, here is how you can spend a night in Venice, Italy.
The Best Things to Do in Venice at Night
Explore the city without the crowds
One of the best things to do in Venice at night is just to explore the city after dark.
With the sheer volume of tourism this city sees, you can’t expect to find Venice deserted even at night, but you can still admire its beauty without getting quite so overwhelmed by the daytime crowds!
Head out after dinner for a stroll along the illuminated canals, charming squares, and gorgeous bridges.
Enjoy the sight of St. Mark’s Square without the masses, walk on the Rialto Bridge, and take in the charming views of the Grand Canal.
All of the major tourist areas in Venice are easily accessible by walking, but if you want to take it easy, you can always take the Vaporetto — Venice’s network of boats that serve as the city’s public transportation.
Line 1 travels along the Grand Canal, passing iconic buildings like the Ca’ Rezzonico Palace, Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute, and Rialto Bridge, and it runs roughly until midnight.
Best of all, this is one the cheapest ways you can see Venice at night!
Go on an evening gondola ride.
Let’s be honest: there’s no Venetian experience as iconic and essential as the gondola ride.
To make it an even more magical and memorable experience, you can do it at night — and even throw in a serenade if you really want to!
Of course, Venice’s canals are charming at any time of the day or night, but the atmosphere is undeniably more magical in the dark, with the reflections of the city lights sparkling on the water’s surface.
You can be spontaneous and hop on a gondola in the many spots around Venice or book a ride in advance if you’re more of the “plan ahead” type.
Evening gondola rides are a bit more expensive than day rides, but it’s well worth the expense for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
For a more budget-friendly experience, check out the sunset shared Grand Canal Gondola Ride (Tip: pick a date first to be able to scroll through all the options).
The ride starts in St. Mark’s Square, and travels along the Grand Canal, passing by Teatro la Fenice, Peggy Guggenheim Collection, and Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute, among other Venice landmarks.
If you’d prefer a romantic private gondola ride, you’ve got a few different options to choose from!
ThisBridge of Sighs Gondola Ridepasses by smaller canals for a more relaxed and intimate experience (which can be made even more romantic by adding on a serenade option!).
If you want to see the most iconic sights, try thisRialto Bridge Gondola Ride combining smaller canals and iconic Grand Canal sights.
Can you imagine any better way to spend an evening in Venice than enjoying a traditional dinner in a restaurant overlooking the Grand Canal illuminated by the city lights?
While the choices can be overwhelming, remember that many restaurants with a great view are pricey and sometimes overrated.
Trattoria Povoledo is located near Venice central station and serves a variety of fish and meat dishes.
Here, you can try Venetian dishes like black cuttlefish with polenta or the Venetian-style liver.
You’ll also find classic Italian dishes, but only a few vegetarian options.
For an upscale alternative, dine on the terrace of Ristorante la Cupola.
For delicious vegetarian dishes, try La Zucca, a cozy restaurant by a small canal serving both classic Venetian dishes and incredible vegetarian alternatives to famous Italian dishes like lasagna.
Go on an after-hours tour of St. Mark’s Basilica.
Visiting St. Mark’s Basilica during the day can be a challenge, especially in the busy summer months.
If you want to explore this gorgeous church at a more relaxed pace, consider joining an after-hours guided tour starting around 9 PM.
Forget about long lines and fighting your way through the crowds without being able to pause and truly appreciate the beauty of this church.
Your guide can tell you about the construction of St. Mark’s Basilica and how it became the impressive structure you see today.
You’ll get to visit all the areas you would see during the day, plus a few special ones.
Plus, you can admire the breathtaking mosaics as they sparkle in the dark, illuminated by just a few light sources!
This tour is very popular and tends to sell out in the summer months. Remember to reserve your spot ahead of time so you won’t miss this unique opportunity!
Pack your fancy dress or suit, and prepare for an unforgettable evening evening enjoying an opera, classical concert, or ballet show.
Teatro La Fenice is one of Italy’s most renowned opera theaters, founded in 1792 and rebuilt twice after being damaged by two fires in 1836 and 1996.
The name of the theater, which means phoenix, symbolizes its rebirth from these two fires.
Teatro La Fenice has served as the stage for many historic premieres by renowned composers, including Verdi, Rossini, and Bellini.
Each year, the theater offers a wide range of opera shows, classical music concerts, and ballet performances.
If you’re passionate about these performing arts, you should absolutely watch a show here.
Heads up! The theater has a dress code that changes depending on the event.
When attending a premiere night, women should wear a formal dress and men should wear a suit and tie.
The other evenings are less strict, and jeans are even allowed.
However, even for afternoon performances, you may not be allowed to enter if you’re wearing a T-shirt and shorts, so dress appropriately!
Attend an alternative opera show.
Another unforgettable way to experience an opera show in a more intimate setting is by attending an interactive, unique opera show.
This Italian Opera in a Historic Palace is a unique experience where it isn’t just about the performance — it also focuses on the interaction between the performers and the audience.
The opera show takes place in Palazzo Barbarigo-Minotto, a Gothic-style palace on the Grand Canal.
Each act of the show takes place in a different room, so the audience has to move along with the performers!
Depending on the day of the week, you can attend La Traviata, The Barber of Seville, or Rigoletto.
The experience includes both access to the show and a glass of wine or another drink.
You’ll meet your guide just before sunset and stroll through iconic squares and lesser-known streets while learning about Venice’s mysteries, secrets, and legends.
You’ll get plenty of photo opportunities and get to know a side of the city that you’d never have the chance to experience otherwise.
Your local guide will personalize the tour based on the group, and can tell stories about the places you pass by that you wouldn’t find in travel books.
Be sure to book your tour in advance, especially if you visit in the summer!
If you visit Venice between the months of May and September, you can explore the Doge’s Palace in the evening (on weekends).
The palace stays open until 11 PM on Friday and Saturday nights, giving you the chance to explore its lavish rooms, beautiful courtyards, and impressive art collection in a more tranquil atmosphere!
The Doge’s Palace is one of Venice’s most famous landmarks, located in the iconic St. Mark’s Square: a wonder of Gothic architecture that was once the residence of the Doge, back when the city was the seat of the Republic of Venice.
You’ll see the same things if you do an evening visit compared to what you’d see in the day.
Still, it’s worth doing at night, because in summer, you can take advantage of the longer days and experience it in the cooler evening temperatures!
The palace may still be crowded even in the evening, so it’s a good idea to book your trip in advance.
Pay a visit to the Venice Casino.
Another exciting way to spend an evening in Venice is a trip to the casino. The Venice Casino is the oldest in the world, founded in 1638!
Since 1946, the casino has occupied a gorgeous Renaissance palace on Canal Grande, Ca’ Vendramin Calergi.
The palace housing the casino has a rich history and was the last residence of the German composer Richard Wagner.
Aside from the casino, the building also houses a small museum dedicated to the composer.
Even if you’re not a gambling fanatic, spending an evening in the Venice Casino can be a unique experience.
Aside from the casino and Wagner’s Museum, the palace houses a dining area and a beautiful garden.
Before your visit, remember to dress appropriately!
The casino requires a formal dress code, so shorts, flip-flops, and tank tops are most definitely not allowed.
Watch the sunset and have a drink at Skyline Rooftop Bar.
Skyline Rooftop Bar is the perfect spot to spend a couple of hours with a great cocktail or a glass of wine while watching the night fall over Venice.
Head over just before sunset and you’ll be rewarded with the incredible sight of Venice’s rooftops in the soft golden light before the city lights slowly turn on.
Skyline Rooftop Bar is in the neighborhood of Giudecca and offers panoramic views of Venice.
You can just have one of their signature cocktails or pair it with a light meal or the typical Venetian cicchetti — just be prepared to pay a lot more for it, but you’re paying for the view.
Also, the bar hosts many events in summer, including live music and pool parties, so check the schedule in advance if any of that sounds fun to you!
Have a classic Venetian aperitivo at the bacari.
Another Venetian experience not to be missed is having an aperitivo at the bacari.
A bacaro is a traditional Venetian taverna, usually small and rustic, serving drinks and small bites.
The most typical Venetian aperitivo consists of a glass of wine, called ombra in Venetian, and cicchetti.
The cicchetti are small slices of bread topped with various ingredients, from cold cuts and cheese to fish and veggies.
If you don’t want to drink wine, you can pair the cicchetti with an Aperol Spritz, a popular cocktail made with Prosecco, Aperol, and soda.
You’ll find countless bacari all over Venice, so many that the choice can feel overwhelming!
A few great options are Bacaro Risorto Castello, Bacareto da Lele, Cantina do Spade, and Cantina do Mori.
After a delicious dinner, a great way to spend the late evening in Venice is to head to one of the historic bars and enjoy a drink.
One of the most famous bars in Venice is Harry’s Bar.
After its opening in 1931, it quickly became a favorite among writers and actors the likes of Ernest Hemingway, Orson Wells, Truman Capote, and Katherine Hepburn.
Harry’s Bar is also known for being the birthplace of the Bellini!
The founder of the bar, Giuseppe Cipriani, invented the cocktail made with prosecco and peach purée.
The cocktail quickly became famous, and it’s a must-try when stopping by Harry’s Bar!
If you’re looking for a more upscale location, you absolutely have to stop by the luxurious Bar Dandolo inside Hotel Danieli.
The atmosphere in this bar will make you feel like you traveled back in time to the 1800s.
You can order exquisite cocktails and enjoy live piano music for an unforgettable night.
Experience Venetian nightlife.
If you’re looking to party in Venice, you should know that the city is not renowned for its lively nightlife!
However, if you’re truly determined, you can find a few areas in the city where you can listen to live music and have a drink even late at night.
Campo Santa Margherita is among the most popular areas for late-night drinking and music.
The area is mostly frequented by university students, given its vicinity to the Ca’ Foscari University and the train station.
Here, you’ll find bars that stay open until 2 AM, like Skillà Bar and Margaret Duchamp.
Another popular area for going out at night is Rialto.
Here, you’ll find lots of bacari where you can start the evening with an aperitivo and a few bars that stay open until late, like Rétro Wine Bar and Bacaro Jazz.
If you’re looking for nightclubs, you’ll have to head to Venice Mestre, as the historical center is not exactly a party place.
Roxana is a Romanian-born freelance travel writer who has lived in Italy for over 15 years. She has a Master’s in Journalism and a Bachelor’s in Film Studies, and she studied at Università degli Studi di Roma Tre. Besides her native Romania, Roxana has lived in Rome, Lisbon, and Berlin, and she has traveled through much of Europe in search of hidden gems, history, and culture.
When you think of Venice and its countless canals, one image jumps out above all others: the iconic gondola ride.
While it may seem cliché, taking a gondola in Venice is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that’s not to be missed.
Having traveled to Venice twice while living in Italy, I can tell you from my own personal experience that a Venice gondola ride will give you an entirely different perspective on the gorgeous city.
So, without any further ado, here’s everything you should know about this bucket-list experience.
About the Venetian Gondola
First things first: let’s talk about these quirky little boats and what makes them so unique.
Gondolas are traditional flat-bottomed Venetian boats with slender, curved shapes, allowing them to navigate the narrow canals of the Venetian Lagoon.
The gondolas have an asymmetrical hull, designed to counterbalance the weight of the gondolier standing on the stern, facing the bow.
Gondolas first appeared in Venice sometime around the 11th century. The first known depictions of the unique boat date to the 15th century, when artists Bellini and Carpaccio included them in their paintings.
At the time, gondolas were adorned with sumptuous decorations and were a luxury means of transportation reserved for the elite.
In the 16th century, the Italian government banned lavish gondolas and passed an order to paint them all black that stands to this day, so you’ll notice that nearly all gondolas are painted black.
The presence of the gondolas along Venice’s canals reached its peak in the 17th century when something like 10,000 gondolas would sail around the city.
Nowadays, the number is much lower, with only around 400 gondolas that official gondoliers use mainly for tourist rides.
If once gondolas were part of Venice’s public transportation system, now they are exclusively a tourist attraction.
I don’t know about you, but I would have loved to visit Venice at a time when you could hail a gondolier to take you to an appointment a few canals away!
While those days may be long gone, at least we can still experience riding in a gondola in Venice, enjoying a charmingly decorated boat while we admire the stunning city.
The Rigorous Process of Becoming a Gondolier
At the time of the Republic of Venice, the local aristocracy would have private gondoliers.
They were called “gondolier de casada” and were considered almost part of the family!
Today, this figure no longer exists, and the gondolier profession is mainly for tourism.
While much has changed since the days of the Republic of Venice, some traditions are still observed.
Gondoliers still have their traditional uniform, consisting of a striped T-shirt, black trousers, and the optional straw hat.
Another tradition that hasn’t changed is that the profession of gondolier isn’t open to just anyone with an oar.
Positions are limited, and the process of becoming an official gondolier is not a simple affair.
Historically, the profession was passed down from father to son, but today, there’s an official school for gondoliers (and women can be gondoliers now, too).
The requirements are tough! Anyone who wants to become a gondolier in Venice must have a good knowledge of the history and art of Venice, speak a second language, be an able oarsman and a good swimmer, and have a water rescue certification.
Access to the gondolier school is limited to those who pass the selection process. At the end of their studies, gondolier students must pass a final exam.
Next, they do an internship with a professional gondolier and must pass a practical exam.
At this point, those who pass can be substitute gondoliers. Finally, substitute gondoliers with sufficient experience can request an official gondolier license!
Currently, there are roughly 430 official gondoliers in Venice and 180 substitutes.
Should You Take a Gondola Ride in Venice?
Yes, going on a gondola ride in Venice may sound corny, but it’s one of those things you can’t leave Venice without trying at least once!
Gliding along the lovely canals, passing by impressive palaces and under iconic bridges will reward you with a whole new perspective on the gorgeous city.
Of course, some could argue that gondola rides are not worth the expense.
While it’s true that gondola rides are not cheap, you can find more affordable options, like group rides.
If you ask me, it’s more than worth it to splurge on a gondola ride in Venice for a once in a lifetime experience.
After all, it’s not like you’ll be taking gondolas everywhere, every day of your stay.
All in all, I think it’s worth it to take a gondola ride in Venice, especially if it’s your first time in the city.
How Much Does a Venice Gondola Ride Cost?
The cost of a gondola ride depends on whether you book online or hop on the first gondola you see while strolling around Venice.
In general, if you want to be spontaneous and just hop in a gondola when you get to Venice, you’ll be looking at a price tag of 80 euros during the day or 100 euros at night.
The good news is, these prices aren’t calculated per person but per ride.
Gondolas can fit up to five people, so if you’re traveling with friends or family, you can share the cost.
If you’re traveling solo and don’t want to spend that much, you can join group rides.
A standard gondola ride takes 30 minutes. If you want to ride longer, though, be aware that the cost of the ride increases proportionately to the duration.
For example, you’ll pay 120 euros if you want a 45-minute ride and 160 for a one-hour ride.
For the bargain hunters and hagglers among you, here’s where you can negotiate the price in some cases.
For longer rides, and depending on the number of people, you may be able to get a lower price.
If you book your gondola ride online, you can pay significantly less sometimes — but also a lot more for unique personalized experiences.
A gondola ride with a serenade by night, for instance, can cost as much as 400 euros.
What Do You See on a Gondola Ride?
Depending on the ride options you’ve chosen and the starting point, the gondoliers may stick to the Grand Canal or go along smaller canals.
In general, the Grand Canal tends to be busier, so a ride along the secondary canals will be more picturesque and relaxed.
Getting a gondola ride with a tour guide will make the experience more interesting.
Your knowledgeable local guide will tell you about the buildings and areas you pass by, so you don’t just look around wondering what that cool building over there is all about.
Usually, gondola rides pass by the most iconic landmarks in Venice, such as the Rialto Bridge, the Bridge of Sighs, and Chiesa di Santa Maria della Salute.
When Is the Best Time for a Gondola Ride?
When it comes to the best months to travel to Venice and enjoy a gondola ride, shoulder seasons are ideal.
From April to early June, or between late September and the end of October, you can get nice weather without the sticky, summer heat of July and August.
As for the time of day, try to go on a gondola ride early in the morning. At this time, the canals aren’t too busy, and the gondoliers are just starting their day.
In the middle of the day, the canals tend to get more crowded, and, especially in summer, it gets hotter.
Remember, there’s no shade on a gondola, so you want to avoid the hottest hours with the sun beating down from overhead.
Of course, a gondola ride in the evening is also a great idea, but thanks to high demand, this popular option is more expensive.
If you can spend the extra money and are looking for a romantic experience, definitely go for the evening ride.
Should You Book a Venice Gondola Ride in Advance?
While booking a gondola ride in advance isn’t technically a must, it can be a good idea for many reasons.
For instance, if you book online, you can skip all of the stress that comes with finding a ride on-site, possibly negotiating the price, and spending time asking around to find the best solution.
Another reason why booking online is a good idea is that you can find better prices.
Aside from finding many group rides, you may even also come across promotions on existing tours, allowing you to save some extra money.
Given the price of a gondola ride, even a small discount can make a difference!
If you’re the detail-oriented planning type (and if you’re reading this, you probably are!), booking a gondola ride in advance will allow you to better structure your Venice itinerary.
Since you’ll already know the start and end point of the tour, you can plan other activities around that area before and after your gondola ride.
Last, but certainly not least, by booking a gondola ride online, you don’t risk missing out on the experience.
Although it’s hard to not stumble across a gondola ride in the entire city, if you want to be spontaneous, you may need to wait a long time for your turn, especially in the busiest seasons. In winter, this is less important.
If you don’t have much time in Venice, booking your ride in advance is highly recommended.
Most Popular Gondola Ride Tours for Every Budget
There are countless options for gondola rides online, so many that it can be daunting to choose one.
So, to narrow things down a bit and make your life just that much easier, here are a just few of the best options for every budget.
I’ve chosen two shared gondola ride options and two private options to keep your options to a minimum (decision overwhelm can be so real when you travel!).
If you’re on a tight budget but want to cross this experience off your bucket list, this Venice gondola ride may be the best option.
You’ll join a shared gondola ride with a maximum of four other people and experience an enchanting ride along Venice’s canals.
The ride begins in Piazza San Marco, where your host will tell you a few facts about the history of gondolas and the gondoliers before you start your ride.
You’ll also get access to a free app with commentary on the itinerary your boat is taking.
During the 30-minute ride, you’ll sail along the Grand Canal, passing beautiful buildings like the Peggy Guggenheim Collection Palace, the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute, The Gritti Palace, and Punta della Dogana.
You’ll then sail along the smaller canals, passing by Teatro La Fenice and the Mozart House, ending at San Moisè Square.
As your gondola sails along Venice’s canals, your guide will tell you about the history of the places you pass by, curious facts about gondoliers, and fascinating stories.
Before the 30-minute gondola ride, you’ll also get a 20-minute walking tour of the area around the meeting point, where you’ll check out the Biennale Café and the San Moisè Church and learn about the history of Venetian gondolas.
The whole experience lasts just a bit less than an hour, but it’s a nice way to enjoy the fascinating gondola ride and learn a few cool facts about this unique tradition!
If you can spend a bit more, and especially if you’re traveling with a small group or with your family, you can get a private tour for the same price, if not less, than the group ride.
The cost of the private ride covers up to five people, so the price per person depends on how many there are in your group.
This 30-minute tour starts at Bacino Orseolo, in front of the Hard Rock Café, and follows a few smaller canals before reaching the Grand Canal.
You’ll pass under the iconic Rialto Bridge, admire the gorgeous palaces Ca’ Farsetti, Palazzo Grimani, and Palazzo Manin, and sail back to the starting point.
You can also choose the slightly more expensive gondola ride at night, a 60-minute ride only available at night, or even a special ride with a serenade.
The latter, aside from being quite a bit more expensive, is limited to three people (since you have a few musicians on board with you!).
This private gondola ride has the same prices and options as the previous one but takes a different route.
You’ll start the ride at St. Mark’s Basin and slide along picturesque little canals, passing through Rio del Palazzoa and making your way under the iconic Bridge of Sighs.
Then, you’ll be passing along Rio di Santa Maria Formosa and Rio di San Severo before returning to the starting point.
The extended 60-minute ride follows the same route, but includes an additional portion along the Grand Canal as well.
As with the previous tour, you have the options of taking the nighttime ride or even the one with the serenade.
If you’re looking for a romantic experience, the evening ride with the serenade is guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience. Of course, you’ll need to be prepared to spend a significant amount!
Roxana is a Romanian-born freelance travel writer who has lived in Italy for over 15 years. She has a Master’s in Journalism and a Bachelor’s in Film Studies, and she studied at Università degli Studi di Roma Tre. Besides her native Romania, Roxana has lived in Rome, Lisbon, and Berlin, and she has traveled through much of Europe in search of hidden gems, history, and culture.
No trip to Italy would be complete without a visit to Venice, the aptly-named City of Water.
From its scenic canals to its trademark gondolas to its breathtaking Gothic architecture, Venice is truly unlike any other place in the world
Not to mention, their approach to cooking is different than other Italian regions, including its cichetti tradition and its handmade egg pastas, popular among Northern Italian cuisine.
So while you’re at it, you should definitely take aVenice cooking class so you can bring those flavors and techniques back with you.
Fettuccine, ravioli, and other kinds of pasta are just the tip of the iceberg – wait until you’ve tried local risotto, baccalà mantecato, and sarde in saor, among other iconic antipasti (called cicchetti here in Venice).
Your local Italian restaurant back home just can’t measure up to the real deal — and taking a cooking class in Venice is the best way to cope the reverse culture shock of coming back home from an epic Italian vacation.
So try a Venice cooking class and learn to make authentic dishes from Italy’s finest chefs!
My Top 3 Picks For Venice Cooking Classes
No time to read the full article about these cooking tours and just want my top 3 picks and the highlights of each?
Venetian Cichetti Cooking Class ✔️ Make 6+ kinds of cichetti, Venetian tapas with seasonal ingredients ✔️ Max group size of 6 for plenty of 1:1 attention
⌛ Class Length: 3 hours | 🌟 Rating: 4.8/5 stars (60+ reviews) | 👩🍳 Book Now
Unique Features: –Cooking in a traditional Venetian home with a local -Learning to prepare filled pasta and another fresh pasta -Delicious aperitivo of prosecco and snacks
This Venice cooking class teaches you to prepare traditional Venetian dishes in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere — a local old-school family home!
It sets the perfect atmosphere for a day of home cooking.
Experience authentic Venetian hospitality during this three-hour cooking class, taught by a local Venetian.
You’ll learn to make two different pasta recipes – one stuffed pasta and one fresh pasta.
Learn to make pasta dough from scratch: mixing the dough, rolling, and shaping.
For the stuffed pasta, you will learn how to prepare a delicious filling and how to fold and seal the pasta.
“It was wonderful! I gained confidence in cooking Italian. I met a wonderful couple and an excellant teacher in a beautiful historic building. It was great sharing food and conversation. Highly recommend.”
After making the pasta, you will learn to prepare the famousItalian dessert, tiramisu.
This gorgeous dessert perfectly blends sweet flavors (like chocolate and mascarpone cream) with bitter flavors (like espresso and liqueur).
Then everything is assembled in beautiful layers, with a stunning presentation.
Best of all, this is a kid-friendly class, and you’d be hard-pressed to find a better host to teach your little ones!
For the adults in the group, there’s also some tasty aperitivo for good measure – it’s hard to turn down some quality local prosecco along with snacks!
You can usually arrange for a morning or evening slot too, so it’s pretty easy to fit the class into your schedule!
⌛ Class Length: 4 hours | 🌟 Rating: 5/5 stars (30+ reviews) | 👩🍳 Book Now
Unique Features: –A market tour to get to know Venice’s freshest ingredients -Getting to cook in an inviting, authentic Venetian home -Enjoying wine while cooking and eating a 3-course meal
Unless you take the cooking class at 5 PM or on a Sunday, you’ll start things off with a market tour to hand-pick the finest ingredients Venice has to offer.
But don’t sweat it — even if you’re not able to visit the market, you’ll still have access to the freshest ingredients, as your host will carefully select them for you.
Once that’s done, you’ll get to cooking at a Venetian hometo really get into the spirit of things on this 4-hour cooking class.
“We met up with Lorenzo at the meeting point, he showed us round the Rialto market. Then he took us back to his place where we had the most amazing few hours. We prepared and cooked wonderful pasta and sauce along with a tiramisu. It was brilliant from start to finish. Thank you Lorenzo”
⌛ Class Length: 4 hours | 🌟 Rating: 4.9/5 stars (65+ reviews) | 👩🍳 Book Now
Unique Features: –Visiting the home of an acclaimed, award-winning chef -Learning to make two desserts alongside the main course -A scenic balcony meal complete with wine
Carolyn is an American married to a Venice local who has lived in Italy for the last 20 years, and this gives her a unique approach to cooking Venetian-style cuisine.
Plus, her many awards for her Venetian cooking speak for themselves!
That said, the way she’ll greet you as you enter her home is very much Italian – with a welcome glass of Prosecco and some cichetti, of course.
“This was one of the best experiences we’ve had! The class, food, recipes, and instructor were just amazing! Go early in your stay in Venice because she does a fantastic job give local tips and helps you understand Venice more as a local!”
Whether you prefer your pasta with meat, cheese, or veggies, this class will turn you into a pro in no time!
To top things off, you’ll learn to make Italian cookies and a creamy delight distinct to Venice.
If it’s summer and the weather is pleasant, you get to conclude the lesson on the balcony, relishing in the view as you enjoy your food. Also, a glass of regional wine for good measure!
Things start off nice and easy with a market tour – you’ll get to look at produce from Venice’s finest farmers to guarantee the best, freshest ingredients for the ultimate culinary experience.
The class covers three tried-and-true local recipes, and you get to work under theguidance of one of Cesarina’s premier chefs, a local cooking school that highlights home chefs.
“Market tour was a bit slow but once you start cooking with Rosa it was a blast. One of the highlights of the trip.”
Whether you’re in the mood for coffee, wine, or anything in between, there’s something for everyone to enjoy as you learn these three recipes.
Importantly, you can let your host know ahead of time if you have any dietary restrictions. Whatever your needs are, they’ll be met!
You can choose between a morning and an afternoon slot, but there’s some leeway in deciding when you begin the market tour, especially since it’s a small group of just 4 chefs-in-training.
At the end of the class, you’ll get to sit down and savor the fruits of your labor as you indulge in the delicious Italian cooking made entirely by your group!
⌛ Class Length: 3 hours | 🌟 Rating: New! | 👩🍳 Book Now
Unique Features: –Private class tailored to your desires and needs -Learning three classic Venetian recipes -Enjoying a glass of local wine with your meal
The amount of ground you cover in 3 hours is impressive, and there’s the added pleasure of listening to your host talk about Venice!
Naturally, there’s some quality wine in it for you — with your choice of red or white wine — so you can expect a lively atmosphere over lunch or dinner, depending on which tour you choose.
Since the cooking lesson is entirely private, you can customize many aspects of it.
Generally, the lunch cooking class starts at 10 AM. Meanwhile, the dinner class starts at 5 PM. However, they can work with your schedule and adjust if needed.
Vegetarians, vegans, celiacs: don’t be shy about letting the host know your food restrictions; your teacher will work with you to ensure that you’re able to enjoy the class and the meal.
⌛ Class Length: 4 hours | 🌟 Rating: New! | 👩🍳 Book Now
Unique Features: –Learning to make a variety of cicchetti — at least 6 or 7 types -Lots of one-on-one interaction due to the small group size -Enjoying a drink of prosecco as you eat, aperitivo-style
Side dishes can be every bit as important as the main course, and this Venice cooking class covers cicchetti, a Venetian classic!
This 4-hour cooking class covers 6 to 7 different kinds of cicchetti, including both contemporary and traditional-style cookery.
But what are cicchetti? Basically, they’re small plates of delicious food that are typically served in local bàcari, or wine bars, a tradition unique to Venetian cuisine.
The specific dishes you’ll make depend on the availability of seasonal ingredients — ranging from meat, fish, to vegetable — so you could even try the class again during a return trip!
If you come back in a different season, you can practically guarantee different seasonal ingredients will be highlighted!
Also, cicchetti goes great with prosecco, and your host has you covered on that front too! The delightful bubbles are perfect paired with the small plates.
The class is a great pick if you’re not particularly experienced in the kitchen – there’s definitely an art to making good cichetti, but it’s a lot less messy than a lot of other Italian recipes!
Either way, since the class is private, you and your group of up to 6 people should have no trouble learning the recipe in a few hours.
Children are welcome too, making this a solid choice for a family of travelers!
Capped at a max group size of 6 people, this cooking class is specifically intended to be an intimate experience, with lots of 1:1 attention.
Also, be aware that this class does not accommodate dietary restrictions, such as allergies or vegetarian/vegan diets. Make sure you’re okay with that before booking this class!
⌛ Class Length: 4 hours | 🌟 Rating: New! | 👩🍳 Book Now
Unique Features: –Exploring the charming old village of Malamocco -Private class with a menu highly tailored to your personal tastes -Wine tasting and pairing lesson with your home-cooked Italian meal
What about if you throw in a market tour, wine pairing, and an expert chef to help you, all set at one of the region’s most stunning resorts?
Malamocco is one of the most charming (and ancient) villages in the Venice region, and that’s exactly where this Venice cooking class is held!
The class is held at Relais Alberti, a small but luxurious resort, so you could even choose to stay here if you wind up loving it (which, we admit, is likely to happen).
Don’t worry about getting here: meet at Piazzale Santa Maria Elisabetta in the heart of Venice for an easy transfer.
Plenty of fish and plant-based options are possible, so this is a great pick for people with dietary restrictions!
Participants get a lot of say in which ingredients are chosen, so what you’ll be cooking largely depends on you.
Either way, you can expect to learn lots and sample some delicious Venetian wine along the way!
They’ll teach you the art of wine pairing, so you can understand how to best pair food with wine for the ultimate foodie experience.
You’ll also receive the recipes via email at the end of the class, so you’ll have to double the incentive to attempt these classic Italian food recipes back home.
⌛ Class Length: 2 hours | 🌟 Rating: New! | 👩🍳 Book Now
Unique Features: –Learning how to make ganache, mousse, and truffles -Learning how to make Italian-style hot chocolate -Short, sweet 2-hour private class easy to fit into every schedule
Thisunique class pairs you with a professional chocolatier and teaches you to make authentic Italian desserts in a small group capped at 4 people.
Your instructor is a walking reference book on chocolate, so you’ll learn a lot of the theory and history of chocolate-making.
Once you’ve learned how to dilute chocolate into ganache and mousse, you’re prepared to combine that knowledge and turn it into the holy grail of chocolates: truffles, of course!
And of course, you’ll wash them down with Italian-style hot chocolate (think thick, rich, and creamy) at the end.
Since this cooking class specializes in sweets, it’s relatively short and sweet (pardon the pun) – all the more reason to check it out, since it’s so easy to fit into your Venice itinerary, between gondola rides and explore Piazza San Marco.
Plus, at the end of the class, you’ll get to take home any surviving chocolates to snack on later in your trip — or to bring home, if it can make it all the way back!
⌛ Class Length: 4 hours | 🌟 Rating: New! | 👩🍳 Book Now
Unique Features: -A private cooking experience for a minimum of two participants -Romantic evening dinner option for couples -Getting to sample quality Italian wine
⌛ Class Length: 6 hours | 🌟 Rating: New! | 👩🍳 Book Now
Unique Features: –A scenic boat ride starting from Riva San Biagio -Meeting local farmers and trying hard-to-find snacks and produce -Learning to cook a seafood-based lunch, Italian-style
If a boat trip and a chance to mingle with local farmers sounds like a good deal, this is one of the best cooking classes in Venice for you!
You’ll be catching your boat early in the morning near Saint Mark’s Square, passing fishing villages and haunted islands along the way (yes, haunted — we’ll leave that to your guide to explain!).
Once you get off, it’s time for a visit to an organic farm for a taste of their wine and produce.
These folks rely on fishing and agriculture for a living, and that’s also reflected in the class’ menu.
You’ll be making mussels, fried seafood salad, and clam pasta, made that much sweeter with a side of red wine or prosecco.
After several courses of seafood and some other nibbles (salt marsh honey, anyone?), you can head back to Venice with a once-in-a-lifetime experience under your belt!
⌛ Class Length: 4 hours | 🌟 Rating: New! | 👩🍳 Book Now
Unique Features: –Taking in the scenery as you cook at a Rovigo farm -A four-course meal including appetizers and dessert -A varied menu that changes depending on the time of year
Allison Green is a former teacher who has been travel blogging since 2016. She has a Masters in Teaching and a B.A. in English and Creative Writing. Her blog posts merge her background as an educator with her experience traveling to 70+ countries to encourage ethical, meaningful travel. She has been a speaker at the World Travel Writers Conference and her writing, photography, and podcasting work has appeared in National Geographic, CNN Arabic, CBC Canada, and Forbes, amongst others. Now a full-time traveler, she has lived in Prague, Sofia, New York City, and the San Francisco Bay Area.
One of the most magical destinations in Italy, Venice is a unique city surrounded by turquoise canals leading out to the Adriatic Sea, located in the northwestern area of the country.
The city, romantic and full of history, offers incredible things to do either for a short stay or a multi-day holiday!
If you’re visiting Italy, discovering its culturally rich cities and beautiful landscapes, then take some time to visit Venice — you won’t regret a minute of it!
Plus, Venice is the place where culture and natural beauty merge best, so really you’re getting the best of Italy when you visit Venice.
If you’re still not sure what to do for your first time in Venice, then follow this 3-day Venice itinerary — it’ll help you to make the most of Venice without missing any iconic spot in town, while also covering a few hidden gems.
This post was written by Gabi Ancarola, who lived in Italy for 10 years traveling around the country. She now lives and works in Crete as a tour guide and travel blogger.
What to Know Before Visiting Venice
History
Located facing the Adriatic Sea, Venice is an important city, major seaport, and capital of the Veneto region, one of the richest industrial regions in the country.
In the past, Venice dominated the commercial routes of the Mediterranean as the most important Maritime Republic and trade center during the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries.
The then-Republic of Venice, or also La Serenissima, ruled over different regions in Europe such as Croatia, Slovenia, Montenegro, Albania, Cyprus, and much of Greece’s territories, including several important Greek islands.
The opulence and wealth of the Republic of Venice are still visible in the castles and buildings scattered around each and every one of those countries!
The city-state was a wealthy settlement — we’re talking lavish palaces, impressive churches, and unique buildings, many of which are still standing and can be visited today.
Most of these palaces clearly depict the incredible wealth that made Venice a powerful trade center in the past, with sumptuous interiors, marble facades, and amazing frescoes.
Its unique beauty gained the Venice names such as the Queen of the Adriatic and City of Bridges, due to the countless stone bridges that cross the hundreds of water canals that surround the town.
In fact, the “floating city” we think of as Venice stands upon a portion of the mainland of Italy as well as more than a hundred small islets divided by channels, linked by a myriad of beautiful bridges — 300 of them, in fact!
This is all separated by a barrier island referred to as the Lido di Venezia, which separates the Venetian Lagoon from the Adriatic Sea on the other side.
Flying into Venice
The city is home to Venice’s international airport, Venice Marco Polo Airport, a hub that receives flights from the rest of the country, as well as from several European capitals.
Those who want to reach Venice from outside the European Union can fly to Rome or Milan and then board a domestic flight.
If you’re traveling from the US, you can even find direct connections from JFK (in New York), although these are seasonal flights only in the spring and summer.
The airport is located on the mainland, and most people prefer to stay on the island part of Venice, so you’ll have to arrange for transit from the airport.
When arriving at Marco Polo airport, it is easiest to get to the center of Venice via water taxi transfer. Not only is it easy, it’s one of the most beautiful and magical ways to arrive in Venice!
If you’re already in Italy, train travel may be the most convenient way to move around!
Reaching Venice by train is a convenient alternative to flying if you’re traveling from most cities in the north, including Milan (2.5 hours), Florence (3 hours), or Genoa (3-4 hours).
It is also possible to reach Venice by train from Rome (the journey is about 4.5 hours) and Naples (from 5 to 6 hours). However, in these case, a flight might be more convenient in order to cut travel times.
Often, low-cost airlines are cheaper than train prices in Italy, so it’s worth checking both.
From the Venice train station, Stazione di Venezia Santa Lucia, you’ll need to take a vaporetto (line 5.1 or 4.1) which will bring you to the Piazza San Marco area which is likely where your hotel is.
You can also take a private water taxi which you’ll want to arrange with your hotel beforehand, though this can get expensive!
Best Time to Visit Venice
When planning a trip to Venice, it is a good idea to keep in mind that this is among the most touristic destinations in the country, with hundreds of thousands of visitors every year and in every season.
The summer months (June, July, and August) are the most popular times, making it hard to find accommodation last minute — and what accommodation there is in the city center will be rather expensive.
Also in February, the time of the popular Venice Carnival, the city sees a large number of visitors, with accommodation prices increasing fast.
It is always better to visit Venice in September and October to avoid high temperatures, as well as in April and May when prices tend to go down.
If you want to get the best bang for your buck and also avoid the crowds, visiting Venice in winter is ideal! The time around Christmas is magical, but January (before the Carnival) will be the absolute cheapest.
Getting Around in Venice
As we have already stated, the city is surrounded by canals, so moving around is a bit different in Venice from what you might expect!
Take a look at these suggestions, which will help you move around Venice with ease.
Vaporetto
This is the most popular and convenient way to go from one place to the other in Venice.
The popular water bus or vaporetto is what locals use to reach every corner of Venice, because it is the cheapest and most efficient way to move around.
Different vaporetto lines operate from early in the morning until midnight while there are also a few night lines available.
You can purchase a single vaporetto ticket or get a multi-day card to save some euros.
For more details, prices and to learn how to validate the Vaporetto ticket, check thiswebsite, which also includes a section to purchase tickets online.
Gondola
Although gondolas are more expensive, they are the most iconic means of transport sailing the canals of Venice.
Prices can vary according to the time of the day and the kind of ride, and sometimes it can be even possible to negotiate the price before the trip, especially in the low season.
However, keep in mind that you might pay about 120 euro for a short 30-minute ride, with a higher fee for a night gondola ride.
Despite the high price tag, taking a gondola ride is one of those things you won’t regret during your Venice experience, and booking the ride in advance might save you some extra cash.
This particular ride takes you to discover the historic sights along the shoreline, admiring marvelous palaces and churches, and exploring the romantic secret waterways of Venice.
This private gondola ride includes a glimpse of St. Mark’s Square and the impressive La Fenice Opera House.
If budget is a concern, you can also book a shared gondola experience.
It works out as cheaper if you are doing it as a solo traveler or a couple, but as soon as you have a party of three or more, you’re better off with a private gondola.
No matter which way you go, be sure to tip your gondolier!
Keep the local water taxi company phone number at hand to call a water taxi when visiting Venice. The number is 041 522 2303.
Taxis operate 24 hours a day and prices should be arranged beforehand, as they might change according to the time of the day and the availability.
Best Places to Stay in Venice
Venice is divided into different quarters or neighborhoods, locally known as sestieri.
Some of them are more central than others, but most of them are well-connected not only with bridges but also with the vaporetto, the most popular and convenient means of transport.
These water buses sail along the most important canals, connecting all the neighborhoods and most important touristic spots.
They are not as romantic as a gondola, but they are fast and convenient!
When picking an area to stay in Venice, keep in mind that each of the neighborhoods has something interesting to offer.
There are six different quarters in town: San Marco, Castello, Dorsoduro, Cannaregio, Santa Croce and San Polo.
The best-known of them is San Marco, home to most of Venice’s landmarks, such as the remarkable piazza of Saint Mark’s Square and Venice’s amazing cathedral.
Where to Stay in San Marco
If you’re looking for a convenient hotel in San Marco, then you can check out The Carlton which stands overlooking the magnificent Grand Canal.
It has a stunning rooftop cocktail bar with a terrace and spacious, Venetian-style rooms.
The hotel is a romantic 4-star property, with incredible interiors and decorated with local Murano glass lamps and antique furniture.
Another great place to stay in Venice, especially for young travelers, couples, and solo adventurers is Dorsoduro.
This is Venice’s popular university district and is home to dozens of affordable eateries, as well as many small pubs and bars open until quite late at night. Plus, Dorsoduro is great for budget travelers.
A place such as Ca Bea, for example, offers charming and comfortable rooms with free WiFi only minutes from iconic places such as St. Mark’s Basilica or the Rialto Bridge.
Day 1 of Your Venice Itinerary: Iconic Landmarks of Venice
Check out the Grand Canal and the Rialto Bridge.
Devote your first day in Venice to exploring some of the most iconic sights in town! Fuel up on breakfast, because we have a full day ahead of us!
Start by heading directly to the Grand Canal, which is the perfect departure point to explore the rest of the city.
To see the best buildings and architectural gems along the canal, board a Line 1 Vaporetto water bus and spend some time taking in the one-of-a-kind vistas.
Along the way, you’ll reach the most iconic bridge in town for a beautiful snapshot of the canal.
Although the city boasts more than 300 bridges, Ponte del Rialto (Rialto Bridge) is the most important of them all.
The Rialto Bridge is a high, stone arch bridge crossing the narrowest point of the Grand Canal, high enough to offer spectacular views!
Since it is an important observation point, it tends to be crowded, so heading there early in the morning will guarantee much better pictures and a peaceful atmosphere.
Arrive at the beautiful Piazza San Marco.
Right after checking out the Grand Canal and its most important bridge, walk along the small alleys in the direction of Venice’s main square, Piazza San Marco.
Here, you will find the most important church in the city, the Byzantine church of San Marco, which dates back to 1092!
Called Piazza San Marco in Italian or Saint Mark’s Square in English, this is Venice’s place to be and a common meeting point for locals and a touristic spot for visitors to enjoy.
Often listed among the most impressive piazzas in the country, the huge square features rich buildings, traditional cafeterias, and elegant shops.
Other buildings to check in the square include the clock tower and Saint Mark’s Church Bell Tower, an ideal spot to take in the city’s skyline and canals, and the Doge’s Palace just off of the main square area.
Explore the Doge’s Palace.
There are two main sights in Venice that everyone wants to see: the Doge’s Palace and the Saint Mark’s Basilica.
That often means excruciatingly long lines… unless you beat the crowds with a very early wake-up time or book a guided tour that allows you to skip the line.
I strongly recommend this tour of the Doge’s Palace and the Basilica to help you avoid the lines and maximize your Venice itinerary.
Locally known as Palazzo Ducale, this incredible building is just a few minute’s walk from Venice’s Basilica.
It is the perfect starting point to learn about the local history and rich past of the Maritime Republic, Venice’s heyday.
Today transformed into a remarkable museum, the Doge’s Palace is an architectural gem and fantastic Venice landmark.
It was built back in the eleventh century to be the seat of the local court as well as the private residence of the ruler in office (the Doge, locally known as Duca).
The building can be recognized easily thanks to its one-of-a-kind pink facade made from Verona marble.
The architecture features intricate arches and lavish colonnades with distinctive windows done in the perfect Venetian Renaissance style, as well as paintings by the famous Venetian artist, Tintoretto.
Compared to other Renaissance buildings in the rest of Italy, this style presents a certain degree of restraint, and is known for its characteristic windows with arched or rounded tops.
When visiting the Palazzo Ducale, do not overlook the medieval cells and the Bridge of Sighs (Ponte dei Sospiri in Italian).
This is where prisoners being taken to their cells would take a last glimpse of the city before being sentenced in the court — hence, the sighs, knowing it would be ages (or never) until they saw their beautiful city again.
If you booked the tour above, Saint Mark’s Basilica will be next on your tour, and you can allow yourself to be led by your expert guide to the Basilica as well as the viewpoints there.
Alternately, If you are sightseeing Venice independently, now is a time when you could stop for a snack by the Grand Canal before doubling back to Saint Mark’s Square to pay a visit to the gorgeous cathedral.
Saint Mark’s Basilica is an impressive example of Byzantine architecture, an unusual architectural style in Italy, making it one of the most original religious buildings in the country.
The San Marco Basilica features an impressively rich facade with unique artwork, sculptures, and mosaics while the interior boasts stunningly detailed frescoes and richly decorated domed ceilings.
Since everyone visiting Venice wants to access the Basilica, there are often very long queues. This means spending a significant portion of your day waiting to enter the church and the terraces.
In that case, the best thing you can do is book a tour in advance to save time and skip the line.
Many tours appear to be skip-the-line but actually aren’t, so choose with caution!
Note that some tours do not include a visit to the Pala d’Oro which requires a separate ticket for entry, but it’s just two euros extra so it’s easy to add on for yourself — I recommend it!
Check out the view from the St Mark’s Campanile.
If you want a stunning view of Venice from the highest point in the city, you can head up the belltower at the Saint Mark’s Basilica, also known as the Campanile.
This is not included on guided tours so you will have to purchase a ticket separately for this attraction.
Regular tickets cost 10 euros bought in person, but you’ll have to wait in line. I suggest you skip the ticket line and buy tickets online here.
The elevator will sweep you up more than 300 feet in just 30 seconds, bringing you to some of the best views of a lifetime.
Once at the top, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the Basilica below, the massive San Marco Square, and the sea and islets surrounding you as you stand at the heart (and height!) of Venice.
Check out the Libreria Acqua Alta.
You’ve likely seen photos of the unique bookstore, Libreria Acqua Alta — now it’s time to visit it for yourself!
“Acqua Alta” means high water (flooding), and it’s a common occurrence in the low-lying, lagoon-surrounded islands and islets that make up Venice.
As a result, this bookstore has adjusted and embraced the “Acqua Alta” concept, placing books in bathtubs and even gondolas.
There’s even a stack of books that have been ruined in the floods, where instead of being thrown away, they were stacked and turned into an art piece that you can climb like a staircase!
Admire the La Fenice Opera House.
If you enjoy ancient theaters, music, opera, and ballet, then a visit to the prestigious Teatro Della Fenice is a great choice!
This opulent opera house is famous for featuring world-premiere operas and shows, but it’s also just a stunning Venice landmark in its own right.
With an opera calendar that is often sold out, you can still admire the spectacular avant-garde design of this theater by joining a tour of the premises and backstage.
The best solution to visit?
A skip-the-line ticket like this one allows you to discover the history of the theater with an audio guide, exploring the curious secrets of the theatre, from its origins to the present day.
Take a scenic gondola ride.
Of course, one of the most incredible ways to cap off your first day in Venice is to go for a beautiful gondola ride on the city’s famous canals.
There are multiple ways to do this depending on your budget. For most travelers, a shared gondola tour is the most cost-effective way of ticking off this Venice bucket list experience!
For families and for couples who prefer to pay a little extra to have the gondola all to themselves, a private gondola tour will offer you a better experience for a little extra cash.
We recommend you prebook your gondola through a third-party tour group for free cancellation and to ensure you will get exactly what you paid for — unfortunately, there are sometimes gondola scams in Venice.
Enjoy cicchetti, aka Venetian tapas.
One of the more unique aspects of Venetian life is the tradition of cicchetti, or tapas-like small plates, served at local eateries called bàcari.
There are plenty of places where you can eat cicchetti, but one of the more fun ways to experience it is on a food walking tour led by a local, who will bring you to their favorite bàcari and make sure you try the best bites Venice has to offer.
Cicchetti are typically enjoyed with local wine like Prosecco or local cocktails such as the bellini (made with prosecco and peach nectar) or the Italian perennial favorite, the Aperol Spritz!
Taking part in this Venetian tradition is a must on your Venice itinerary!
Day 2 of Your Venice Itinerary: The Offbeat Side of Venice
Learn about Venice’s Jewish history in the Ghetto Ebraico.
After you’ve had breakfast and are ready to start your second day in Venice, head to the Cannaregio district of Venice to the Ghetto Ebraico, the old Jewish ghetto.
This is one of the oldest areas in Venice, dating back to the 1500s, so visiting here feels a bit like stepping back in time.
It features dozens of ancient synagogues, an impressive Jewish Museum, and numerous memorials to the victims of the Holocaust.
The ghetto is connected to the rest of Venice by two bridges that, in ancient times, were locked during the evening to keep the Jewish population inside their neighborhood at night.
The bridges were under permanent control by the local authorities and Jewish residents of the ghetto would pay very high fees if they were caught outside of their neighborhood after certain given hours of the day.
You can get a better insight into the sad but important history of this historic district if you join a small-group walking tour.
We suggest a tour that includes visits to places such as the Deportation Memorial as well as several synagogues and other historic buildings, part of the centuries-old Venice’s Jewish history.
There are tours daily at 10 AM and 2 PM, so I suggest the 10 AM tour as it fits this itinerary for Venice best.
You can take a private tour or a small group tour of maximum 12 guests, so long as you have at least two people in your party.
Explore the Basilica Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari.
After your tour of the Jewish Ghetto, it’s time to slowly make our way over to another sestiere in Venice, the Dorsoduro District.
But we’ll make a few stops on our way to explore the heart of Venice, on this self-guided walking tour of Venice.
Our next stop is the Basilica Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari, a 14th century Gothic church that is exceedingly impressive, even in the city of Venice which full of churches!
It’s about a 20-minute walk from the Ghetto Ebraico, crossing over the Ponte delle Guglie and then the Ponte degli Scalzi which has beautiful views of the Grand Canal as you cross it!
Once you arrive, the exterior of the church is nice, but it doesn’t prepare you for what beauty lies within!
This church is one of the most beautifully decorated religious buildings in Venice, and it’s one of the places where you can find works by the artists Giovanni Bellini and Titian.
Titian’s tomb is located here, as well as the ornate tomb of Antonio Canova and other famous Italians.
Tip: A few blocks away, you’ll find one of Banksy’s works in Venice – Opera di Banksy, also known as The Migrant Child. Be sure to pop it into Google Maps so you don’t miss it!
Wander around Campo Santa Margherita.
This lively square is a much more authentic square than Piazza San Marco, part of the Dorsoduro district where many Venetian locals enjoy hanging out.
It’s located near the Università Ca’ Foscari, so it’s a young, lively student district.
This is a great place to stop and grab a bite to eat for lunch before things close for siesta!
Check out the Gallerie dell’Accademia.
Besides its historic churches and palaces, Venice also has several great museums worthy of a visit!
The Gallerie dell’Accademia is a great place to stop if you want to see older works of Italian art, particularly from the period between the 13th and 18th centuries.
You’ll find works by Titian, Tintoretto, Canova, Bellini, and many other famous Renaissance-era artists here.
Take photos on and around the Ponte dell’Accademia.
For one of the most scenic views of Venice, you’ll want to snap some shots of the Ponte dell’Accademia from both sides as well as on the bridge!
Once we’ve snapped some photos, we’ll come back to to same side of the bridge that we started from, as our next site is also located in Dorsoduro, just a few minute’s walk away.
Explore the Peggy Guggenheim Collection.
We’ve seen so much historic Renaissance-era art — how about some modern art next?
The Peggy Guggenheim Collection is a fantastic collection of 20th century art, all set in a beautifully renovated 18th century palace that faces the Grand Canal.
Here, you’ll find works from many of the last century’s most famous modern artists, including Jackson Pollack, Pablo Picasso, Rene Magritte, Joan Miro, Piet Mondrian, and Wassily Kandinsky.
This is one of the best collections of modern art in the world, perhaps only comparable to other museum heavy-hitters like the MoMA in NYC, the Reina Sofia in Madrid, and the Albertina in Vienna.
Have dinner in Dorsoduro.
Once you’ve finished up your day of culture, it’s time to find a lovely place to eat!
Luckily, you’re already in the Dorsoduro district, one of the liveliest and most authentic quarters of Venice.
Alternately, you can make your way back to more central parts of Venice to find something to eat closer to your accommodations.
Whatever you decide, be sure to finish the evening with a delicious gelato!
Day 3 of Your Venice Itinerary: Exploring Murano and Burano Islands
Spend a fantastic final day in Venice on a day trip embarking on a boat ride that takes you to some of its beautiful nearby islands: Murano and Burano.
Let’s check them both out on this lovely day trip from Venice. You can do it either self-guided or with a guided tour — we’ll go over both ways.
Despite their similar sounding names, Murano and Burano each offer totally unique experiences — but both are colorful!
Murano is known for its stunning crafts scene, particularly its glass-making. In fact, its colorful pieces of glasswork that have made the small island of Murano famous all over the world!
Meanwhile, Burano is the Instagram-famous colorful fishing village that looks too cute to be real.
Explore Murano and its glasswork.
To get to Murano you can either board a water taxi or reach the island with the more affordable Vaporetto (the lines that get you to Murano are 4.1, 4.2, and 12), which takes you about 15-20 minutes from the Grand Canal.
Insider tip: Keep in mind that some hotels offer free rides to the island, so it’s a good idea to check for information at the hotel reception before purchasing the Vaporetto ticket!
On this workshop, a glass master offer a detailed explanation about the processes involved in glass production — and you can take home your very own hand-made glass souvenir!
After exploring Murano, devote the rest of the afternoon to marveling at another unique island in the lagoon, Burano.
The adorable fishing village of Burano is a UNESCO World Heritage site that you really wouldn’t want to miss during your 3 days in Venice!
The tiny island is only a short boat trip from Venice. You can get there with a water taxi or also with the Vaporetto.
The Vaporetto 12 line connects Venice to Murano to Burano and the ride is a bit more than half an hour if you’re leaving from Murano.
There are also convenient tours that include a visit to both Murano and Burano, offering also a glimpse of Torcello, another small but interesting island in the lagoon.
This is a good option if you want guidance during your exploration, or you simply don’t want the stress of timing different Vaporetto rides and tickets.
Burano is one of the most picturesque places in the region, known for the unique colorful houses that adorn the waterfront of the island.
Another typical trait of Burano is its lace-making tradition dating back to the sixteenth century — another Venice souvenir worth picking up while you visit!
Foodies will have a great time when visiting the island as some of the best trattorias and seafood restaurants in Venice are located in Burano!
The island is, in fact, locally known for the incredibly fresh anchovies, sardines, and other seafood dishes served in the picturesque local restaurants.
If you have some extra free time, devote at least an hour to the Lace Museum and visit a few lace workshops to purchase unique souvenirs and witness skilled artisans at work. Tip: bring cash, as many of these smaller vendors only take cash.
Check out the marvelous island of Torcello.
Finally, add a quick visit to Torcello, the most ancient of the inhabited islands in the Venetian Lagoon.
Although this tiny island only has just a few residents, it is a popular touristic destination and it is often busy with sightseers.
On the island of Torcello, you can visit a gorgeous church dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin (Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta) which features beautiful Venetian-Byzantine mosaics.
From the church’s bell tower, it is possible to see an aerial view of the nearby island of Burano, and the so-called Ponte del Diavolo, a bridge that received that name as it features no parapets and was considered quite dangerous to cross!
If you’re not visiting Torcello as a part of a tour of the islands, then you can get there riding the line 12 Vaporetto. It’s located in between Burano and Murano, so it’s good to visit on the way back to Venice.
Torcello is another great place to try fresh fish dishes in any of the many seafood restaurants along the waterfront near the main port of the island!
Return to Venice for a final evening stroll.
After your day exploring Venice’s outer islands, take a walk in the evening to take in any last sights as the city comes alive at night with its lights.
This is the time to get a little lost, wander down any alleyways that catch your eye, grab some drinks or bites, and just marinate in the magic that is Venice for a final time.
Gabi is a full-time travel blogger, tour guide, and freelance writer currently living in Crete, Greece. Born in Argentina, Gabi spent a decade of her life living in Milan and traveling around Italy. She is one of two featured Italy experts on Eternal Arrival. She shares her knowledge of Crete and Greece on her blog, The Tiny Book, where she has also published several digital travel guides. She has 25 years of experience in writing and translation. She holds a BA in Languages and Translation, an MA in Translation for Tourism and a degree in Copyediting.
