Venice itinerary: your 3-day guide
Venice, often referred to as the “Floating City,” is one of the most enchanting and unique destinations in the world. With its labyrinth of canals, grand palaces, and timeless charm, it’s no wonder Venice captures the hearts of travellers from all over the globe.
If you’re planning your first trip to Venice, you’re in for an unforgettable experience. I had the pleasure of visiting Venice last year for my 30th birthday, and it was everything I had imagined and more.
This 3-day Venice itinerary is designed to help you make the most of your visit, ensuring you experience the city’s rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. So, let’s dive into the perfect 3-day plan for exploring Venice!
Table of Contents
3-Day Venice Itinerary
Day 1: Discovering the Iconic Landmarks of Venice
Morning: St. Mark’s Square and Basilica di San Marco
Your first day in Venice should start with a visit to the heart of the city: Piazza San Marco (St. Mark’s Square). This grand piazza is one of the most famous in the world and serves as the perfect introduction to Venice. Surrounded by stunning Renaissance architecture, including the Torre dell’Orologio (Clock Tower) and the Procuratie Vecchie, St. Mark’s Square is an impressive sight, especially early in the morning when the crowds are lighter.
At the centre of St. Mark’s Square stands the magnificent Basilica di San Marco (St. Mark’s Basilica). This stunning example of Byzantine architecture is one of the most important religious sites in Venice, and it’s easy to see why. The basilica’s exterior is adorned with intricate mosaics and domes, while the interior houses the famous Pala d’Oro, a golden altarpiece encrusted with precious gems.
Tip: Arriving early in the morning is essential if you want to avoid the long lines that form later in the day. If you’re short on time, consider booking a guided tour or purchasing skip-the-line tickets to ensure you have enough time to explore the basilica’s incredible interior without the wait.
I’d also recommend Get your Guide
Mid-Morning: Doge’s Palace and the Bridge of Sighs
After exploring St. Mark’s Basilica, your next stop should be the Palazzo Ducale (Doge’s Palace), located just next door. The Doge’s Palace is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and was once the residence of the Doge, the ruler of Venice. As you walk through the grand halls and chambers of the palace, you’ll get a sense of the immense power and wealth that Venice once held as a major maritime republic.
One of the highlights of the Doge’s Palace is the Bridge of Sighs. This enclosed bridge connects the palace to the prison and offers one of the most iconic views in Venice. According to legend, prisoners would sigh as they crossed the bridge, knowing it would be their last glimpse of the beautiful city before being led to their cells.
Tip: To avoid the long lines, it’s a good idea to book a combined ticket that includes both the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica. This will save you time and allow you to explore both of these major attractions at your own pace.
Lunch: Enjoying Venetian Cuisine
By now, you’ll likely be ready for a break and a bite to eat. Venice is famous for its delicious cuisine, and there are plenty of great restaurants and trattorias to choose from. For a true Venetian experience, head to a local bacaro (wine bar) for a selection of cicchetti—small, tapas-style dishes that are perfect for sharing. Pair your meal with a glass of Prosecco or a classic Venetian Spritz for the full experience.
Some must-try dishes include risotto al nero di seppia (squid ink risotto), sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines), and bigoli in salsa (a type of pasta with an anchovy and onion sauce). These traditional Venetian dishes are bursting with flavour and are sure to leave you satisfied and ready for more exploring.
Afternoon: A Gondola Ride and the Rialto Bridge
No visit to Venice would be complete without a gondola ride through the city’s famous canals. While it may seem a bit touristy, there’s something undeniably romantic about gliding through the narrow waterways, passing under bridges, and admiring the centuries-old buildings from the water. Gondola rides are a great way to see the city from a different perspective and are especially magical in the early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft and golden.
After your gondola ride, make your way to the Ponte di Rialto (Rialto Bridge), the oldest and most famous bridge in Venice. The Rialto Bridge spans the Grand Canal and offers fantastic views of the bustling waterway below. Spend some time exploring the surrounding area, which is home to the lively Rialto Market. Here, you’ll find a colourful array of fresh produce, seafood, and other local delicacies. It’s a great spot to pick up some souvenirs or simply soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
Evening: Sunset at the Grand Canal
As the day comes to a close, head back to the Grand Canal for one of the best experiences Venice has to offer: watching the sunset over the water. The sight of the sun setting behind the city’s iconic buildings, casting a warm glow over the canal, is truly magical. Find a spot along the canal or grab a drink at one of the nearby bars and watch as Venice transitions from day to night.
Tip: For a truly memorable experience, consider booking a table at a restaurant along the Grand Canal where you can enjoy a delicious meal with a view of the sunset. It’s the perfect way to end your first day in Venice.
Day 2: Immersing Yourself in Venetian Culture and Art
Morning: Exploring the Islands of Murano and Burano
On your second day in Venice, venture out to the nearby islands of Murano and Burano. These islands are just a short vaporetto (water bus) ride away from the main city and offer a peaceful escape from the crowds.
Start your morning on the island of Murano, which is world-renowned for its glassmaking. The tradition of glassmaking in Murano dates back to the 13th century, and today, you can visit one of the many glass factories on the island to watch skilled artisans at work. You’ll be amazed at the intricate glass pieces they create, from delicate jewellery to elaborate chandeliers. Don’t forget to pick up a piece of Murano glass to take home as a souvenir.
After exploring Murano, hop back on the vaporetto and head to the island of Burano. Known for its brightly coloured houses and lace-making, Burano is one of the most picturesque spots in the Venetian Lagoon. The island’s colourful buildings make for a stunning backdrop, and the tranquil atmosphere is a welcome change from the hustle and bustle of Venice.
Tip: If you’re interested in learning more about the history of lace-making, visit the Museo del Merletto (Lace Museum) on Burano. It’s a fascinating look at the island’s long-standing tradition and the intricate craftsmanship that goes into creating these delicate works of art.
Midday: Lunch in Burano
While you’re on Burano, take the opportunity to enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the island’s many seafood restaurants. The local speciality is risotto de gò, a creamy risotto made with a small fish called goby, which is native to the Venetian lagoon. Pair your meal with a glass of white wine from the Veneto region, and savour the flavours of this tranquil island.
Afternoon: Discovering the Cannaregio District
After returning to Venice, spend the afternoon exploring the Cannaregio district, one of the city’s most authentic and less touristy areas. This district is home to the Jewish Ghetto, the oldest of its kind in the world, established in the 16th century. The area is steeped in history, with several synagogues, kosher restaurants, and artisan shops that offer a glimpse into the Jewish community’s rich cultural heritage.
Cannaregio is also a great place to wander without a set agenda. The narrow streets and quiet canals make it easy to get lost – but in Venice, getting lost is part of the charm! Be sure to stop by Campo del Ghetto Nuovo, the main square of the Jewish Ghetto, where you can learn more about the history of the area at the Jewish Museum of Venice.
As you wander through Cannaregio, you’ll come across plenty of hidden gems, including charming local bars and restaurants where you can enjoy a glass of wine or an espresso. It’s the perfect way to experience the local side of Venice, away from the more crowded tourist spots.
Evening: Dinner and Drinks in the Dorsoduro District
For your evening meal, head to the Dorsoduro district, which is known for its lively atmosphere and excellent dining options. Dorsoduro is a popular spot with locals and students, so you’ll find plenty of authentic trattorias and bars where you can enjoy a relaxed dinner.
One of the highlights of Dorsoduro is the Ponte dell’Accademia (Accademia Bridge), which offers stunning views of the Grand Canal. After dinner, take a stroll along the Zattere promenade, a wide, tree-lined walkway that runs along the Giudecca Canal. It’s a lovely spot for an evening walk, and you’ll often find locals out for a stroll or enjoying a gelato by the water.
If you’re an art lover, Dorsoduro is also home to the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, one of the most important museums of modern art in Italy. The museum is housed in the former home of Peggy Guggenheim, an American art collector, and features works by some of the greatest artists of the 20th century, including Picasso, Pollock, and Dalí.
Tip: End your evening with a drink at one of the many bacari in Dorsoduro. These small, traditional bars are a great place to try some of Venice’s local wines and enjoy a few cicchetti before heading back to your hotel.
Day 3: Hidden Gems and Off-the-Beaten-Path Venice
Morning: Exploring the San Polo District
On your final day in Venice, take some time to explore the San Polo district, one of the oldest parts of the city. San Polo is home to the famous Rialto Market, where locals have been buying fresh produce, fish, and other goods for centuries. The market is a bustling and vibrant place, especially in the early morning, and it’s a great spot to experience the daily life of Venetians.
After wandering through the market, take a short walk to the Church of Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari, one of the most important churches in Venice. The church is known for its impressive collection of Renaissance art, including works by Titian and Bellini. The interior is beautifully decorated, and the peaceful atmosphere makes it a perfect place to reflect on your time in Venice.
San Polo is also home to the Scuola Grande di San Rocco, a magnificent building that houses a series of paintings by the Venetian artist Tintoretto. The Scuola Grande is often referred to as the “Sistine Chapel of Venice” due to the sheer scale and beauty of Tintoretto’s works, which cover the walls and ceilings of the building.
Tip: The San Polo district is a great spot to pick up some unique souvenirs. The area is known for its artisan shops, where you can find everything from handmade leather goods to traditional Venetian masks.
Midday: Lunch in a Local Trattoria
For lunch, seek out a traditional trattoria in the San Polo district. These family-run restaurants serve hearty, home-cooked meals that are both delicious and affordable. Look for dishes like fegato alla veneziana (Venetian-style liver), baccalà mantecato (creamed cod), and pasta e fasoi (pasta and beans), which are all local favourites.
Pair your meal with a glass of Valpolicella or Amarone, two red wines from the nearby Veneto region that are known for their rich flavours. It’s the perfect way to relax and refuel before continuing your exploration of Venice.
Afternoon: The Hidden Gems of Castello
In the afternoon, venture into the Castello district, the largest and one of the most diverse areas of Venice. Castello is less touristy than some of the other districts, making it a great place to discover the hidden side of Venice.
Start your exploration at the Arsenale, a historic shipyard that was once the heart of Venice’s naval power. The Arsenale is now home to the Venice Biennale, a world-renowned contemporary art exhibition that takes place every two years. Even if you’re not visiting during the Biennale, the Arsenale is still worth a visit for its impressive architecture and fascinating history.
From the Arsenale, make your way to the Church of San Zaccaria, a beautiful church with a stunning altarpiece by Bellini. The church is located in a quiet square, away from the crowds, and offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city.
As you wander through Castello, you’ll also come across the Campo Santi Giovanni e Paolo, one of the largest squares in Venice. The square is home to the Basilica dei Santi Giovanni e Paolo, a grand Gothic church that houses the tombs of many of Venice’s doges. The square is a popular spot with locals, and you’ll often find children playing or people sitting at one of the cafes that line the square.
Tip: Castello is a great place to explore on foot, as the narrow streets and hidden squares offer plenty of opportunities for discovery. Be sure to bring your camera, as you’ll find plenty of photo-worthy spots along the way.
Evening: A Final Sunset at San Giorgio Maggiore
For your final evening in Venice, make your way to the island of San Giorgio Maggiore, located just across the lagoon from St. Mark’s Square. The island is home to the Church of San Giorgio Maggiore, a beautiful church designed by the famous architect Andrea Palladio. The church’s bell tower offers one of the best views of Venice, especially at sunset.
Climb to the top of the bell tower and take in the panoramic views of the city, the lagoon, and the surrounding islands. It’s a breathtaking sight and a perfect way to end your time in Venice. After watching the sunset, take a leisurely stroll around the island and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Tip: If you’re looking for a memorable dining experience, consider booking a table at the Ristorante San Giorgio, located on the island. The restaurant offers a menu of traditional Venetian dishes with a modern twist, and the views of the lagoon and the city are unbeatable.
Final Thoughts
Venice is a city like no other, with its unique blend of history, art, and culture. This 3-day itinerary is designed to help first-time visitors experience the very best that Venice has to offer, from its iconic landmarks to its hidden gems. Whether you’re exploring the grand palaces of St. Mark’s Square, getting lost in the narrow streets of Cannaregio, or enjoying a sunset over the Grand Canal, Venice is sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.
Remember, the best way to experience Venice is to take your time, wander without a plan, and let the city reveal its secrets to you. There’s always something new to discover in this magical city, so don’t be afraid to get off the beaten path and explore at your own pace.
Happy travels!
