Venice 5 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Venice

  • Morning: Arrive at Marco Polo Airport (VCE) or take a train to Santa Lucia Station. From there, follow the signs to Piazzale Roma, the main bus station.
  • 9:00 AM: Take a vaporetto (water bus) from Piazzale Roma to San Zaccaria stop (€7.50 return). Walk to your hotel and drop off your bags.
  • 10:00 AM: Visit St. Mark’s Basilica, one of the most famous churches in the world. Be sure to admire its stunning Byzantine architecture and beautiful mosaics.
  • 12:00 PM: Grab lunch at Trattoria Al Moro (Via Galvia 4299), a cozy spot serving traditional Venetian cuisine like seafood risotto.
  • 2:00 PM: Explore the Dorsoduro neighborhood, known for its charming canals and picturesque Campo Santa Margherita. Visit the nearby Ca’ Rezzonico, a stunning Baroque palace turned museum.
  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Osteria alle Testiere (Fondamenta Manin 21), a Michelin-starred restaurant serving innovative, farm-to-table cuisine.
  • Where to stay: Consider staying in the Cannaregio district, which offers easy access to major attractions and a more laid-back atmosphere. Try Hotel Al Ponte Mocenigo or Ca’Pietra.

Day 2: Discovering Venice’s Hidden Gems

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Scuola Grande di San Rocco, a beautiful Gothic church with an impressive collection of Tintoretto paintings.
  • 11:00 AM: Explore the Rialto Market, where you can find fresh seafood and local produce. Don’t forget to try some delicious fritto misto (fried seafood) for lunch!
  • 1:00 PM: Take a stroll through the charming San Polo neighborhood, known for its narrow alleys and picturesque piazzas.
  • 3:00 PM: Visit the Ca’ Pesaro, a stunning example of Art Nouveau architecture that now houses the International Film Festival of Venice.
  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at La Zucca (Campo Santa Margherita 3782), a cozy spot serving creative, plant-based cuisine.

Day 3: Exploring the Islands

  • 9:00 AM: Take a vaporetto to Murano Island (€7.50 return). Visit the famous glass factories and watch artisans at work.
  • 11:30 AM: Continue to Burano Island (€1.5 one way), where you can admire colorful houses, lace shops, and traditional restaurants.
  • 1:00 PM: Grab lunch at Al Covo (Borano 416), a charming spot serving delicious seafood risotto.
  • 3:00 PM: Visit the Santa Maria Assunta Church, which boasts an impressive collection of Byzantine mosaics.
  • 6:00 PM: Return to Venice and enjoy dinner at Osteria La Carra (Calle dei Spezieri 443), a cozy spot serving traditional Venetian cuisine.

Day 4: History and Art

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Doge’s Palace, a stunning example of Gothic architecture that now houses an impressive art collection.
  • 11:30 AM: Explore the San Marco Museum, which boasts an incredible collection of Byzantine and Renaissance art.
  • 1:00 PM: Grab lunch at Cafè Florian (Piazza San Marco 57), one of the most famous cafes in Venice, offering delicious seafood dishes.
  • 3:00 PM: Visit the Ca’ Rezzonico, a beautiful Baroque palace turned museum that now houses an impressive collection of Venetian art.
  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Ristorante La Carra (Calle dei Spezieri 443), a cozy spot serving traditional Venetian cuisine.

Day 5: Last Day in Venice

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the San Giorgio Maggiore, a beautiful church with stunning views of the city.
  • 11:30 AM: Explore the Santa Maria dei Miracoli, a charming church known for its intricate stonework and peaceful atmosphere.
  • 1:00 PM: Grab lunch at Al Teatro (Campo San Canciano 5319), a cozy spot serving delicious seafood risotto.
  • 3:00 PM: Take a stroll through the charming Cannaregio neighborhood, exploring its narrow alleys and picturesque piazzas.
  • 6:00 PM: Enjoy a farewell dinner at Trattoria Al Moro (Via Galvia 4299), a cozy spot serving traditional Venetian cuisine.

Things to know:

  • Always wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking.
  • Be prepared for crowds and lines, especially during peak season.
  • Don’t forget to try some delicious cicchetti (small snacks) at local bars and cafes.
  • Be respectful of the city’s canals and waterways, which are home to many species of fish and other wildlife.

Transportation:

  • Vaporetto (water bus): The best way to get around Venice. Buy a reusable vaporetto card for convenience.
  • Traghetti (gondolas): A fun way to see the city from a different perspective. Prices vary depending on the service provider.
  • Walking: The best way to explore Venice’s charming neighborhoods and alleys.

Tips:

  • Be prepared for variable weather, especially in the spring and fall seasons.
  • Don’t forget to bring sunscreen and a hat, as the sun can be strong.
  • Try some local specialties like seafood risotto or fritto misto (fried seafood).
  • Explore the city’s many markets and shops for unique souvenirs.

Other things of interest:

  • The Festa del Redentore, a stunning fireworks display held every July 2nd to celebrate the Patron Saint of Venice.
  • The Carnevale di Venezia, a famous carnival celebrated every February and March.
  • The Mostra Internazionale d’Arte Cinematografica, one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world, held every September.

I hope this itinerary helps you plan your trip to Venice!