Venice, Italy-4-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE) and take a vaporetto (water bus) to Piazzale Roma, the main transportation hub in Venice. Buy an ACTV day ticket for unlimited travel on vaporetti and buses.
  • 10:00 AM: Visit the Rialto Bridge, one of the most iconic landmarks in Venice. Take a stroll across the bridge and admire the Grand Canal below.
  • 12:30 PM: Grab lunch at Trattoria al Teatro, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Venetian cuisine. Try their famous fritto misto (mixed fried seafood) and risotto alla veneziana.
  • 2:00 PM: Explore the nearby San Polo neighborhood, known for its narrow streets, charming shops, and historic buildings.
  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Osteria da Scarpari, a local favorite serving fresh seafood and traditional dishes. Be sure to try their homemade pasta.

Where to Stay

  • Hotel La Fenice et des Artistes: A 4-star hotel located in the heart of Venice, with comfortable rooms and a relaxing atmosphere.
  • Budget Option: Hostel Ca’Pietra: A simple but clean and cozy hostel with dorms and private rooms, perfect for backpackers.

Day 2: Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Doge’s Palace, a stunning example of Venetian Gothic architecture. Explore the palace’s grand halls, courtyards, and secret passages.
  • 11:30 AM: Stop by the nearby St. Mark’s Basilica, one of the most famous churches in the world. Admire its intricate mosaics, golden domes, and stunning architecture.
  • 1:00 PM: Grab lunch at Caffè Florian, a historic café serving traditional Venetian cuisine. Try their famous cicchetti (small snacks) and fritto misto.
  • 3:00 PM: Visit the nearby Ducal Palace Gardens, a peaceful oasis in the heart of Venice.
  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Ristorante Al Covo, a cozy restaurant serving fresh seafood and traditional dishes. Be sure to try their homemade pasta.

Things to Know

  • Respect local customs: Remember that you’re visiting a city built on water, so be mindful of your surroundings and don’t litter.
  • Don’t get lost: It’s easy to get turned around in Venice, but don’t worry – just ask for directions or follow the signs.
  • Be prepared for crowds: Venice is a popular tourist destination, so expect large crowds during peak season.

Day 3: Murano and Burano Islands

  • 9:00 AM: Take a vaporetto to the nearby Murano Island, famous for its glassblowing traditions. Visit a local factory and watch artisans create beautiful glass pieces.
  • 11:30 AM: Stop by the nearby Burano Island, known for its colorful houses, lace-making traditions, and stunning views of the surrounding waters.
  • 1:00 PM: Grab lunch at Trattoria al Lago, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Venetian cuisine. Try their famous fritto misto and risotto alla veneziana.
  • 3:00 PM: Explore the nearby San Giorgio Maggiore neighborhood, known for its stunning views of St. Mark’s Square and the Doge’s Palace.

Day 4: Rialto Market and San Polo Neighborhood

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the famous Rialto Market, a bustling marketplace selling fresh seafood, fruits, and vegetables.
  • 10:30 AM: Explore the nearby San Polo neighborhood, known for its narrow streets, charming shops, and historic buildings.
  • 12:30 PM: Grab lunch at Trattoria al Teatro, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Venetian cuisine. Try their famous fritto misto and risotto alla veneziana.
  • 2:00 PM: Visit the nearby Scuola Grande di San Rocco, a stunning example of Venetian Gothic architecture.
  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Osteria da Scarpari, a local favorite serving fresh seafood and traditional dishes. Be sure to try their homemade pasta.

Tips and Recommendations

  • Buy an ACTV day ticket: This will give you unlimited travel on vaporetti and buses throughout Venice.
  • Explore the backstreets: Don’t just stick to the main tourist areas – explore the narrow streets and alleys of Venice for a more authentic experience.
  • Try local cuisine: Be sure to try some of the traditional Venetian dishes, such as fritto misto, risotto alla veneziana, and cicchetti.
  • Respect local customs: Remember that you’re visiting a city built on water, so be mindful of your surroundings and don’t litter.