Venice is a city like no other. With its meandering canals, historic landmarks, and timeless romance, this floating city has drawn travellers from across the globe for centuries. A trip to Venice offers a chance to step into a world where history, art, food, and culture come together. Whether it’s a weekend trip to Venice or a longer stay, the “Queen of the Adriatic” is a must-visit city.
Our guide shares top tips on planning your next trip to Venice, including a 2-day Venice itinerary, how to get to Venice, and the best Venice accommodation.
Top Weekend Trip Itineraries for Venice
Planning a weekend trip to Venice? Here’s a 2-day Venice itinerary to help you make the most of your short stay:
Day 1: Exploring Venice’s iconic sights
- Morning: After an authentic Italian breakfast and a cappuccino, start your day in St. Mark’s Square. Visit St. Mark’s Basilica and climb the Campanile for panoramic views of the city.
- Afternoon: Stroll through the Doge’s Palace, where Venetian history comes alive. Afterwards, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a traditional trattoria.
- Evening: Cap the day with a gondola ride as the sun sets over the canals followed by a drink in one of Venice’s many ‘campi’.
Day 2: Discovering Venice’s lesser-known spots
- Morning: Visit the Rialto Market for a taste of Venetian life. From here, cross the Rialto Bridge and explore the surrounding streets.
- Afternoon: Spend time on the islands of Murano and Burano. Watch glass blowers at work in Murano and admire Burano’s colourful houses.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner in one of Venice’s famous osterias (restaurants) overlooking the canal before taking a moonlit stroll through Venice’s quieter streets.
How to Get to Venice
Getting to Venice is as unique as the city itself. Accessible by plane, train, car, or even cruise ship, reaching this water-bound city can be an adventure in its own right.
By plane
Venice Marco Polo Airport is just 13km from the city and connects to many international destinations. From the airport, you can take a motorboat with Alilaguna for a direct and scenic ride into Venice or opt for the more economical bus.
By train
If you prefer the idea of train travel, Venice Santa Lucia station is your gateway. The train offers stunning views as you approach the lagoon, and its central location makes getting here worry-free.
By car or cruise ship
Though cars aren’t allowed in Venice, you can drive to Piazzale Roma and park there before switching to a vaporetto. For cruise passengers, Venice’s port “Porto di Venezia” provides direct access to the city.
Travelling to Venice: Tips for a Smooth Journey
As we previously mentioned, there’s no other city in the world like Venice. As such, its unique layout can be a bit overwhelming for first-time visitors.
Here are some tips to ensure a stress-free trip to Venice:
- Pack light: Navigating the city’s cobblestone streets and bridges with heavy luggage can be challenging. Opt for a small suitcase or backpack. Our city map of Venice can help you here!
- Choose your transport: Water taxis are convenient but pricey, while vaporettos offer an affordable way to get around. Consider getting a City Pass travel card for unlimited rides during your stay.
- Stay central: To maximise your time, book accommodation close to key attractions so you have the perfect base for exploring the city.
Best Times and Seasons to Plan a Trip to Venice
Venice is beautiful year-round, but each season offers a different experience. Below is an overview of each season and what you can expect on your trip to Venice.
Spring (March to May)
Spring is one of the best times for a trip to Venice, with mild temperatures and blooming flowers adding to the city’s atmosphere. It’s also much less crowded than the peak summer months.
Summer (June to August)
While summer sees Venice at its busiest, the city is alive with energy. Early mornings and late evenings are ideal for exploring without the crowds, while midday is perfect for enjoying gelato (ice-cream) by the canals.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn offers cooler weather and fewer tourists, making it a fantastic time to explore Venice at a more leisurely pace. Seasonal festivals, such as Venice Glass Week (September) and Venice Design Week (October) make this a memorable time to visit.
Winter (December to February)
Winter reveals Venice’s quieter, more romantic side. The city takes on a magical quality with misty mornings, crisp evenings, and the colourful Carnival celebrations in February.
Read our full article on the Best Times to Visit Venice.
Visit Venice for an Unforgettable Adventure
A trip to Venice is a journey into one of the world’s most beautiful and unique cities. Artistic treasures, delicious cuisine, timeless charm: the floating city of Venice offers something for every traveller.
To make your visit truly special, book your stay with Dimora Italia. With elegant accommodations that blend Venetian tradition with modern comfort, our properties provide the perfect base for exploring this extraordinary city.