2 Days in Venice- A Perfect First-Timer’s Guide

Venice – The City of Dreams

Venice is commonly referred to as the City of Canals, and it’s simple to understand why. When I stepped off the train at Santa Lucia Station, I was instantly drawn to the canals, lovely bridges, and colorful buildings. It seemed like I’d strolled into a postcard! Venice is a must-see for anyone who loves history, charm, and beauty. The Gondolas are a famous sight, and the city’s narrow streets lead to beautiful secret places.

Whether you’re going for a weekend or planning a longer stay, Venice is ideal for first-time visitors. With only two days, you may discover the best of Venice and its unique beauty.

Best Time to Visit Venice

The optimum time to visit Venice is in late autumn or early spring. While Venice is gorgeous all year, the summer months often draw big people. The weather is excellent in late fall and early spring, and there are less tourists. This allows you to explore the city at your own leisure while admiring the tranquil beauty of Venice’s canals and ancient landmarks.

Tip- Always try to book your Flight, Hotel in advance. You can save some money by doing so. I use Skyscanner to book my Flights in advance. Their Comperason feature saves a lot of cash on my flights.

How to Get to Venice

There are many easy and quick ways to get to Venice.

There are two main airports you can use to get here. Marco Polo Airport and Treviso Airport. The water cab was the way I picked to get from Marco Polo Airport. It costs more than a bus, but it was a fun and beautiful way to get to the city. When you get close to Venice, the views of the canals are absolutely beautiful.

If you’re coming from other cities in Italy, like Rome or Milan, taking the train is a fantastic choice. It’s quick, cozy, and gets you straight to Santa Lucia Station. As soon as you get there, you can kick off your Venice adventure on foot since the station is just a hop away from all the main attractions!

Where to Stay in Venice

There are a lot of different price ranges for places to stay in Venice. It was very handy for me to stay near the Rialto Bridge. The area is busy and full of great shops and restaurants, which makes it a great place to stay. Skyscanner helped me find the best hotel for my trip by letting me compare prices and read reviews. For different price ranges, here are some great choices:

• Ultra-Luxury ($$$$)

  • The Gritti Palace or Hotel Danieli – Expect to pay around €600-€800 per night for a truly luxurious experience.

• Affordable Luxury ($$$)

  • Hotel Antiche Figure – A more affordable luxury option, costing about €200-€300 per night.

• Mid-Range ($$)

  • Al Ponte Mocenigo – A comfortable and charming stay for about €120-€200 per night.

• Budget Friendly ($)

  • Generator Venice – A budget-friendly option, a hostel priced between €40-€70 per night.

For the best experience, staying on the main island is ideal for easy access to Venice’s top attractions and activities, allowing you to explore the city at your leisure.

Day 1 of Venice Itinerary

Start Your Day at Piazza San Marco

I began my first day in Venice at Piazza San Marco, unquestionably one of the world’s most recognizable squares. It was created in the ninth century and is located in the middle of the city.

The Square is surrounded by ancient structures such as St. Mark’s Basilica, the Campanile (bell tower), and the Doge’s Palace. As a first-time traveler, I knew this would be a must-see destination to begin my experience.

One of my finest choices was to get there before everybody else, at about 8 in the morning. There were less people there at the time, so I was able to enjoy the square’s beauty and amazing architecture without feeling rushed. St. Mark’s Basilica, established in 1063, is also known as the “Church of Gold“.

Because of the spectacular golden mosaics that cover most of the interior. If you want to avoid large queues, I recommend arriving early. Admission is free, but please dress accordingly.

Explore Doge’s Palace

Next, I visited Doge’s Palace, a significant landmark that represents Venice’s previous political and administrative strength. This was the Doge’s (Venetian’s) official home and the hub of Venetian rule.

I purchased a “Secret Itineraries Tour” online to obtain entrance to the underground rooms, which included the famed jail cells where the infamous Casanova was once housed. This tour provided me an inside look into Venice’s history and the interesting lives of its rulers.

For transparency and convenience, I booked the tour online, saving me time and avoiding huge lineups. You may also discover reviews and more information on reputable sites like as TripAdvisor or Viator to assist you select the finest tour alternatives.

Lunch at Rialto Market

By this point, I was ready for a break and walked to Rialto Market. One of Venice’s oldest markets, dating back to 1097. This market was a sensory joy, with fresh fruit, local cheeses, and cicchetti (Venetian tapas-style snacks) offered at the numerous little pubs known as bacari. My top recommendation? Try the fried calamari; it’s a classic Venetian delight!

Visiting Rialto Market was more than just about food; it was an opportunity to immerse oneself in true Venetian culture.

Walk Across Rialto Bridge

After lunch, I went for a short stroll to the Rialto Bridge, the oldest stone bridge on the Grand Canal. Originally built in 1591, it replaced a wooden construction that kept collapsing. Antonio da Ponte designed the bridge, which provides stunning views of the Grand Canal and adjacent structures, reflecting Venice’s rich nautical tradition.

If you, like me, appreciate photography, this is one of the greatest places to capture Venice’s beauty.

Evening in Cannaregio

Cannaregio is one of the most original parts of Venice, where I finished my day. This area used to be the site of the Jewish Ghetto, which opened in 1516. It still has a quiet, small-town feel to it. Cannaregio is a great place for an evening walk because it is less crowded with tourists than other areas of Venice.

I went to a traditional trattoria for dinner and had bigoli in salsa, a traditional Venetian dish of pasta with onions and anchovies. It was a tasty and authentic taste of Venice’s food history. This meal was one of the best parts of my trip because it really let me experience the city’s tastes and eating culture.

Day 2 of Your Venice Itinerary

Start with a Trip to Murano and Burano

I really think you should visit Murano and Burano on your second day in Venice. They are two of the most famous islands in the city. I took the Vaporetto, which is a water bus. A one-way ticket costs about €7.50. The trip itself was fun, and the views of Venice from the water were beautiful. I got to see the city’s rivers and buildings from a different angle.

Murano: Glassmaking Tradition

My first stop was Murano, which is famous all over the world for its glassmaking practice that goes back to the 1300s. I was lucky enough to see a live performance of glassblowing, which was very interesting. I even bought a small glass gift to remember how well the island made things.

If you like arts and crafts, you should not miss this stop in Venice. To find the best places to visit, read reviews of the Murano Glass Factory on sites you can trust, such as TripAdvisor.

Burano: Colorful Houses and Lace-Making Tradition

Next, I went to Burano, a small island known for its brightly colored homes and long history of making lace. The brightly colored houses were first built to help fishermen get home when it was foggy in the bay. As I walked through the cute streets of Burano, I couldn’t help but take pictures of the beautiful scene.

Don’t miss the lace shops. Since the 1500s, local craftspeople have been making lace by hand, and you can see them at work today. If you’re interested in local products, this island is a real gem. Read – Day Trip To Venice Italy Burano – Most Colorful Town in Italy.

Explore the Castello Neighborhood

I went back to the main island in the afternoon and went to the Castello neighborhood. The busiest tourist spots in Venice were not at all like this area, which is the city’s biggest sestiere (district). The Arsenale is there.

It’s an old port that was once the center of Venice’s military power. As I walked through this less busy area, I came across secret parks and small cafes that were perfect for getting away from the crowds.

Join a Venice Food Tour

I really think you should go on a food trip for dinner to learn more about Venice’s food culture. I joined a food tour of the city that took us to some great places I hadn’t heard of before. We tried cicchetti, which are small snacks in the style of tapas in Venice, local wine, and then gelato for dessert.

A lot of fun and a great way to meet other tourists and find out about the food scene in Venice. GetYourGuide helped me book the tour, and I thought it was safe and easy to use.

End the Day with a Sunset Gondola Ride

As a treat at the end of the day, I took the famous sunset boat ride. Though it can get pricey (around €80 for 30 minutes during the day and €100 at night), this is a must-do in Venice. I shared a boat with another couple to save money, but you can choose to ride by yourself if you’d rather be alone. The sunset views from the canals were stunning—a great way for me to think back on my time in this beautiful city.

What to Pack for Venice

It’s important to plan ahead when you pack for Venice because the best way to see the city is on foot. What you pack can make a big difference in your experience, whether you’re walking on cobblestone streets or taking a beautiful boat ride. This is what I liked best about my trip:

Warm Weather (May-September)

If you’re visiting during the warmer months, Venice can get quite hot, so pack accordingly. I recommend:

• Light clothing: Think breathable fabrics like cotton or linen, which keep you cool.
• Hat and sunglasses: Essential for protection against the sun, especially when you’re walking around the open squares and bridges.
• Sunscreen: Protect your skin from the sun, as there are plenty of exposed areas with limited shade.

Cold Weather (October-April)

During the colder months, Venice can be chilly and rainy, so pack for comfort and warmth:

• Warm jacket and scarf: Essential for staying cozy in the cooler temperatures.
• Waterproof shoes: With Venice’s unpredictable weather, having waterproof shoes will keep you comfortable when it rains or if you walk through puddles.

Year-Round Essentials

These items will make your visit more enjoyable, no matter when you go:

• • Comfortable walking shoes: You can see the most of Venice on foot, and many of its cute streets are made of cobblestones. I wore a strong pair of shoes that were also comfortable. They kept my feet happy on long walks across bridges and through tight streets.
  • Reusable water bottle: It’s incredibly convenient to carry a water bottle, and you can refill it at the many public fountains throughout the city. This not only saves money but is eco-friendly.
  • Money belt or crossbody bag: Venice can get crowded, especially near tourist hotspots like Piazza San Marco. Keep your valuables safe with a money belt or crossbody bag. I personally found this to be a lifesaver for peace of mind.
  • Portable phone charger: Venice is an Instagram-worthy city, and you’ll definitely want to take lots of photos. To avoid running out of battery, I recommend carrying a portable charger.
  • Scarf: This is useful not just for warmth but also when visiting churches like St. Mark’s Basilica. Many religious sites require you to cover your shoulders.

I also recommend packing light since Venice has many stairs and no cars. Dragging heavy luggage over bridges can be challenging!

Tips for Visiting Venice

After spending time touring the picturesque streets, squares, and canals of this one-of-a-kind city, I’ve learned a few things that visitors should and should not do to really appreciate their stay in Venice.

• Do:

  • Wake up early: Venice is stunning in the morning when the crowds are sparse. By waking up early, you can enjoy the iconic sites like St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace without the hustle and bustle.

  • Book tickets in advance: To avoid long lines, I recommend booking tickets for major sights like St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace ahead of time. This saves precious hours that you can spend exploring other parts of the city.

  • Try local foods: Venice has a rich food culture, so don’t miss out on traditional dishes like cicchetti (Venetian tapas), bigoli in salsa (a classic Venetian pasta), and fresh seafood dishes. I had the best fried calamari at Rialto Market!

  • Use the Vaporetto: The Vaporetto (water bus) is not only the most convenient way to get around, but it also offers incredible views of the canals, making it a scenic experience in itself.

  • Be environmentally conscious: Venice is fragile, so be mindful of the environment. Use a reusable water bottle, and always dispose of trash responsibly to help preserve this beautiful city.

• Don’t:

  • Don’t sit at cafes in Piazza San Marco unless you’re ready for high prices: While it’s tempting to sit at one of the cafes in Piazza San Marco. Be aware that prices can skyrocket. I noticed coffee prices reaching over €10 at some cafes. It’s a beautiful spot, but be prepared to pay for the view.

  • Don’t roll luggage through Venice: Venice has narrow streets and many bridges. I learned the hard way that rolling luggage can be a noisy hassle, not to mention tough to manage across the steps of the Rialto Bridge and other bridges.

  • Don’t feed the pigeons in Piazza San Marco: Not only is it against the law to feed the pigeons in Piazza San Marco, but it can also result in a fine. I learned that keeping the area clean is essential to Venice’s preservation.

  • Don’t swim in the canals: Swimming in the canals is illegal and seen as disrespectful to the city. Venice’s canals are beautiful, but they’re not for swimming.

Venice’s beautiful canals, long past, and obvious charm made me fall in love with it. There is something for everyone in the city, whether you’re interested in history, food, or just taking in the beautiful views.

This guide should help you get the most out of your two-day trip to Venice. Enjoy the secret gems, taste the local flavors, and, of course, take pictures of all the beautiful scenes—Venice is truly picture-perfect.

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Final FAQs and Closing Thoughts

Here are some of the most common questions I’ve received about Venice, along with my answers:

Is 2 days enough to see Venice?

Yes, absolutely! If you plan your time wisely, two days in Venice is plenty to cover the main attractions, like St. Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace, and the Rialto Bridge. You can also explore some lesser-known spots and even visit the nearby islands of Murano and Burano to get a well-rounded experience of Venice.

How much does a gondola ride cost?

A gondola ride in Venice typically costs around €80 for 30 minutes during the day, and it can rise to €100 at night. If you’re looking to save a little, you can share a gondola ride with others, which makes it more affordable. Regardless of the cost, the experience of gliding along the Grand Canal is truly unforgettable.

What’s the best time to visit Venice?

The best times to visit Venice are during spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November). These months offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and a more relaxed atmosphere, making it easier to explore the city at your own pace. I personally recommend visiting in the shoulder season for the best experience.

Is Venice expensive?

Yes, Venice can be expensive, but it’s possible to enjoy the city on a budget. I stayed in mid-range hotels and used public transportation like the Vaporetto to keep costs down. Dining at local trattorias instead of fancy restaurants also helped me save while still enjoying authentic Venetian food.

What is the best way to get around Venice?

The best way to get around Venice is on foot. The city is small, and most of the major attractions are within walking distance. However, for longer distances, like traveling to nearby islands or across the Grand Canal, I recommend using the Vaporetto (water bus), which is the public transport system. You can also take a water taxi for a more scenic and private experience.

Is it safe to walk around Venice at night?

Yes, Venice is safe at night. The city has a very low crime rate, and you’ll find that most areas remain peaceful even after dark. However, just like any city, it’s always a good idea to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in quieter areas or when near the more tourist-heavy spots like Piazza San Marco.

Can you visit Venice with kids?

Absolutely! Venice is a great destination for families. There are plenty of family-friendly activities, such as riding the Vaporetto, exploring Murano and Burano, and visiting the Rialto Market. Kids will also love taking a gondola ride and discovering the city’s hidden corners. Just be mindful of the cobblestone streets and bridges, which can be challenging for strollers.

Do I need to speak Italian to visit Venice?

While knowing some Italian is always helpful, English is widely spoken in Venice, especially in tourist areas. Many signs are also in English, and most restaurants and shops will have English-speaking staff. A few basic phrases like “Ciao” (hello) and “Grazie” (thank you) can go a long way in making your experience even more enjoyable!

Is there a Venice Card or pass for tourists?

Yes! The Venice Card (also known as the Venice Pass) is available and offers discounts on several attractions and public transport. It can save you money if you plan to visit multiple museums, churches, or take multiple Vaporetto rides. Another option is the Museum Pass, which allows access to several of Venice’s top cultural sites.

How do I avoid the crowds in Venice?

To avoid the crowds, visit popular sights like St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace early in the morning or later in the evening. I recommend arriving around 8 AM to enjoy Piazza San Marco and the basilica before the tourist groups arrive. Exploring quieter neighborhoods like Cannaregio and Castello can also give you a more authentic, peaceful experience.

What is the dress code in Venice?

While there is no strict dress code in Venice, if you plan on visiting churches like St. Mark’s Basilica, it’s important to dress modestly. That means covering your shoulders and knees when entering religious sites. Comfortable shoes are a must since you’ll be walking a lot on cobblestone streets.

Is Venice wheelchair accessible?

Venice can be challenging for wheelchair users due to its many bridges and narrow streets. However, there are some accessible routes, particularly around major areas like Piazza San Marco and the Grand Canal. The Vaporetto boats are wheelchair-friendly, and some hotels also offer accessible accommodations. It’s a good idea to plan your routes and accommodations in advance for the most accessible experience.

Can I bring my pet to Venice?

Yes, pets are allowed in Venice, but you should keep a few things in mind. Dogs are welcome on the Vaporetto, and many cafes and restaurants have outdoor seating where pets are allowed. However, you should always have your pet on a leash, especially in busy areas, and be respectful of local regulations.