Things to do in Venice: The 31 Best Places to Visit and Highlights

You’re planning to visit Venice during your next trip?

Great choice!

With its charming canals and the numerous activities you can do in Venice, you will for sure enjoy your trip to this city built on water, often referred to as “The Floating City”.

In order to help you plan your stay, I have prepared this guide of the 31 best things to do in Venice, with all points of interest and must-see attractions.

In addition to this list of things to do and places to visit, I will also give you itineraries to visit Venice in 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 days (or even a week!) as well as my selection of the best accommodations depending on your budget.

So, what are the best things to do in Venice? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

Best way to save time and money: Buy a city pass to visit Venice

If you’re planning to discover the city’s most iconic monuments during your trip to Venice, I strongly recommend you to get a City Pass.

It’s the best way to save money and avoid queueing!

Depending on what you want to do in Venice, you can choose between 2 city passes:

1) The Venice City Pass. It includes:

• Entry to Doge’s Palace
• Entry to 11 museums 
• Entry to 16 churches on the Chorus circuit
• Entry to the Querini Stampalia Foundation 
• Transportation on the ACTV network waterbus and bus (this is optional, you can choose to add it or not when you buy your city pass).

To buy your Venice City Pass, simply click on the green button below:

2) The Venice Pass, which includes the following attractions:

• Skip the line ticket for Saint Mark’s Basilica
• Fast track admission ticket to the Doge’s Palace
• A gondola ride
• A self guided audio tour (to download on your phone)

To buy your Venice Pass, click on the green button below:

1. Grand Canal Gondola Ride

When you think about Venice, the first thing that comes to your mind is probably the iconic gondola rides along the city’s famous waterways.

The Grand Canal, the main waterway of Venice, offers a unique perspective of the city’s architecture and will allow you to get a good overview of the city of canals.

So during your trip to Venice, you will for sure want to take a gondola ride along the Grand Canal!

Float along the canal, admire the historic buildings, palaces and bridges that line the waterway, and simply enjoy the romantic atmosphere of the city.

A gondola ride is included with the Venice Pass.

2. St. Mark’s Square

Let’s continue your visit to Venice and head to the famous St. Mark’s Square, the main square of the city.

This hub of Venetian life and history is home to:

• The iconic St. Mark’s Basilica (#3 of my list of the best things to do in Venice), a stunning example of Italo-Byzantine architecture.
• St mark’s Campanile (#4), for a great view over Venice
• The Doge Palace (#5), another historical landmark of Venice located on St Mark’s square.

In the square, you will also find numerous cafes where you can sit, have a drink, and soak in the ambiance of the city.

3. St. Mark’s Basilica

Located on St Mark’s Square, the iconic St. Mark’s Basilica is a must-see in Venice.

Known as the “Church of Gold” it showcases the wealth and power Venice wielded in the past.

As you approach the Basilica, you’ll immediately notice its stunning Italo-Byzantine architecture.

But once you step inside, it’s the golden mosaics covering the interior  and the famous Pala d’Oro altar, adorned with thousands of gems, that really steal the show.

And for an amazing view over St Mark’s square, head to the Basilica’s terrace, included in your priority ticket.

St Mark’s Basilica opening hours: the Basilica usually opens at 9:30 AM, and the last admission is at 4:00 PM. Keep in mind that these times can vary depending on the season and religious services.

Remember, as a religious site, the Basilica requires visitors to dress modestly. That means your shoulders and knees should be covered.

4. St Mark’s Campanile

To enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the city, you can climb to the top of St Mark’s Campanile.

The Campanile is located in St Mark’s Square, right next to St Mark’s Basilica. It stands at an impressive 98.6 meters tall, making it one of the highest structures in Venice.

For your convenience, a lift will take you to the top of the tower. Once there, you can enjoy a stunning 360-degree view of the city.

From this vantage point, you can see the entirety of Venice, the lagoon, and even as far as the Dolomite Mountains on a clear day.

5. Doge’s Palace

Let’s end your tour of St. Mark’s Square monuments with a visit to the Doge’s Palace, one of the best places to visit in Venice.

This beautiful Gothic style palace used to be the residence of the Doge, the supreme authority of the Republic of Venice.

You can explore the beautiful chambers, admire the incredible art, and get a sense of the history and power of the Venetian Republic.

One of the highlights is the famous Bridge of Sighs, which you will pass through during your visit!

The Doge’s Palace is one of the busiest Venice attractions, so you should ideally visit early in the day to avoid the crowds.

Entry to the Doge Palace is included in Venice city Pass and Venice Pass.

If you don’t have the City Pass, you need to book fast track tickets by clicking on the button below:

You want to do a VIP guided tour of both the St Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace?

In that case, the best way to save money is to book a combined guided tour.

The best one needs to be booked here:

And if you’re looking for an off the beaten path visit, the Secret of Doge’s Palace VIP tour is for you! You need to book it by clicking here.

6. Ponte dell’Accademia: The best photo spot over Venice Grand Canal

When you’re visiting Venice, you shouldn’t miss the opportunity to snap a few photos at the Ponte dell’Accademia.

This iconic wooden bridge, one of only four that cross the Grand Canal, offers exceptional views that you can’t get anywhere else.

The view from the bridge is truly postcard-perfect, featuring the Grand Canal, the dome of Santa Maria della Salute, and Venetian palazzos in the background.

It’s a favorite spot for photographers, and you’ll certainly want to capture a few memories of your own here!

Getting the best shot requires a bit of timing: my favourite moment to take a picture from the Ponte dell’Accademia is early in the morning, to get the sunrise in the frame.

But if you don’t want to wake up early, no worries! The scenery is worth a picture all day long 😄.

7. Rialto Bridge

Let’s continue this list of the best things to do in Venice with the Rialto Bridge, the oldest bridge spanning the Grand Canal.

A hallmark of Venetian architecture, the bridge is also home to numerous shops where you can buy everything from souvenirs to Venetian glass. You should definitely take a moment to appreciate the panoramic view of the canal from the bridge.

Nearby, you’ll find the vibrant Rialto Market, where locals shop for fresh produce and seafood. It’s a great place to take in local life and even grab a bite.

8. Bridge of Sighs

While you’re near Doge’s Palace, you should take a moment to admire the Bridge of Sighs.

This famous Venetian bridge has a fascinating history. It was the last view of Venice that convicts saw before their imprisonment, hence the name.

For a unique experience, you can see the bridge from the water on a gondola ride. Alternatively, the view from the neighboring bridges is also fantastic.

A great spot to photograph the Bridge of Sighs is from the Ponte della Paglia, the bridge located right behind it.

As I mentioned above, you will walk thorough the bridge during your visit to the Doge’s Palace, but if you want to admire it from beneath, you will need to book this Gondola ride:

9. San Giorgio Maggiore

If you’re keen on escaping the hustle and bustle of Venice’s main islands, you should go on a short trip to San Giorgio Maggiore.

This small island is home to a beautiful church and a bell tower, offering one of the finest views of Venice.

San Giorgio Maggiore Church, a gem designed by the famous architect Andrea Palladio, stands majestically on the island. Its white façade against the blue Venetian sky is truly a picturesque sight!

Inside, you can see remarkable artworks, including Tintoretto’s “The Last Supper”.

After exploring the church, make sure to visit the bell tower. Just like for the one in St. Mark’s Square, a small fee and a short lift ride will get you to the top!

From there, the panoramic view of Venice is simply breathtaking. It’s a perfect spot for capturing splendid photos of the city, especially during sunset.

If you prefer, you can also visit San Giorgio Maggiore with a guided tour.

The best one is a small group tour (limited to 9 participants only) that includes a boat tour, the visit to the church and the ticket to climb the San Giorgio Maggiore Bell Tower.

You need to book it here:

Last but not least, if you’re an art enthusiast, or simply want to enjoy an off the beaten path visit, you should go to the Cini Foundation, located on the island. This cultural institution hosts a rich collection of art and a library specializing in art history.

You need to book your tickets to Cini Foundation by clicking here.

10. Peggy Guggenheim Collection

If you are interested in modern art, you should definitely visit the Peggy Guggenheim Collection.

The museum is housed in Palazzo Venier dei Leoni, an unfinished 18th-century palace which was the home of Peggy Guggenheim for 30 years.

It showcases her extensive art collection, featuring masterpieces from renowned 20th-century artists like Picasso, Pollock, Kandinsky, and Dali.

Don’t miss the sculpture garden, it offers a peaceful break with a wonderful view over the Grand Canal.

You need to book your ticket to Peggy Guggenheim Collection by clicking here:

And if you want to learn more about the artworks, you can book a tour with a private art guide:

Please note that if you book the guided tour, you will also need to book your tickets to the museum separately (with the other button above).

11. Santa Maria Della Salute

Let’s now talk about Santa Maria della Salute, an iconic baroque church located at the entrance to the Grand Canal.

You can admire its grand exterior from various points in Venice, including the Ponte dell’Accademia and the St Mark’s Campanile I mentioned above.

In addition, you should also go take a closer look at its interior, which is equally impressive with stunning frescoes and art pieces.

Entry is free, and the church is generally less crowded than other sites in Venice, offering a moment of relative tranquility amidst your other visits.

12. Ca’ d’Oro

Also known as the Golden House, Ca’ d’Oro is another must-visit site when in Venice.

This beautiful example of Venetian Gothic architecture houses the Galleria Giorgio Franchetti, an important Renaissance art collection.

You can visit the Galleria, and enjoy stunning views over the Grand Canal from the loggia.

You need to book your ticket for the Ca’ d’Oro and the Galleria Giorgio Franchetti by clicking on the button below:

13. Basilica di Santa Maria Glorious dei Frari

The Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari, more commonly known as Frari, is a magnificent 13th-century Gothic church.

It’s is not just another religious building in Venice. It’s a treasure trove of art and a historic resting place for Venetian greats, including the famous painter, Titian.

As you step inside Frari, you will discover numerous paintings, sculptures, and architectural features that makes the Basilica truly unique.

The early mornings and late afternoons usually have fewer crowds, allowing for more personal experience of this Venetian gem.

14. Scuola Grande Di San Rocco

If you enjoy Renaissance art, the Scuola Grande di San Rocco should definitely be on your Venice itinerary.

Located close to the Basilica di Santa Maria Glorious dei Frari I just talked about and known as the ‘Sistine Chapel of Venice’, this confraternity building hosts amazing works by Tintoretto, a famous Venetian artist.

You can admire numerous paintings on the walls and ceiling.

There is so much to see everywhere that they even provide mirrors to avoid straining your neck while admiring the ceiling artwork!

Tickets for the Scuaola Grande di San Roco need to be purchased on site.

15. Rialto Market – Food tour in Venice

One of the experiences you shouldn’t miss while in Venice is a visit to the Rialto Market.

This bustling market is a feast for the senses with its wide array of fresh local produce, seafood, and Venetian specialties.

You can explore the various stalls, sample local delicacies, and maybe even have a little picnic with your market finds!

The market is most vibrant in the morning, so it’s best to go early to see the true bustle of Venetian life. Also, don’t forget to try the local seafood – it’s incredibly fresh!

16. Teatro La Fenice

Known as the Phoenix Theater, Teatro La Fenice is one of the most famous opera houses in the world.

While it’s a great venue to enjoy a concert or opera, even without a show ticket, you can still explore its architectural beauty.

And I strongly recommend you to do so!

From the grandeur of the auditorium to the elegance of the Apollonian Halls, it’s a really nice visit to do in Venice.

Teatro La Fenice is easily accessible by vaporetto (don’t forget to get your Venice City Pass with transport option or ACTV Card). The closest stops are Sant’Angelo and Rialto.

If you’re already near St. Mark’s Square, the opera house is only a 5-minute walk away. Remember, getting lost in Venice is part of the charm!

Tickets to visit Teatro La Fenice need to be bought by clicking on the button below:

And if you want to learn every secret of the opera house, you should book the guided tour by clicking here. The guided tour also includes a priority entrance.

17. Attending a classical concert or an Opera in Venice

If you would like to attend a classical concert or an Opera in Venice, you can of course book one on the website of Teatro La Fenice.

However, there are also more intimate concerts, that are cheaper and totally worth it!

Here are my 2 favourites (simply click on the orange links for more info and to book):

Four Seasons concert at Vivaldi Church: attend a classical concert at Santa Maria della Visitazione, nicknamed “Vivaldi’s church”. You might not know it, but the famous composer was actually venetian!

Opera in an historic palace on  the Grand Canal: if you’re up for a truly Venetian experience, how about an opera in a historic palace on the Grand Canal? It’s a magical blend of music, history, and the unique charm of Venice.

It’s really a once in a lifetime experience, I loved it!

18. Ca’ Rezzonico

If you’re keen to dive into Venice’s rich history, Ca’ Rezzonico is the place for you.

This palatial museum of 18th century is filled with beautiful furniture, frescoes, and artwork. You can easily spend 2 hours exploring the various rooms and exhibits. The Ballroom is especially impressive!

The museum also offers stunning views over the Grand Canal.

Access to Ca’Rezzonico is included with Venice city Pass.

19. Scala Contarini del Bovolo

Scala Contarini del Bovolo is a hidden gem in the heart of Venice.

This ornate spiral staircase provides an amazing panoramic view of the city. As you climb the steps, you’ll be greeted with a different perspective of Venice at each level.

This remarkable architectural structure is often overlooked by tourists, making it a perfect spot for a more tranquil and unique experience.

To visit, you need to book your tickets in advance here:

You will also pass by Palazzo Contarini is also included in the “Venice secret spots” walking tour. You need to book it by clicking here.

20. Accademia Gallery

Art enthusiasts should make sure to visit the Accademia Gallery, one of the most important art museums in Italy.

The museum hosts an extensive collection of Venetian painting from the 14th to the 18th centuries, including masterpieces by artists such as Titian, Tintoretto, and Canaletto.

If you want to immerse yourself in the rich art history of Venice, the Accademia Gallery is one of Venice highlights.

To ensure a smooth visit, you should book your tickets in advance on the official website.

Try to allocate at least 1h30 for your visit to the Accademia Gallery, as there is a lot to see.

21. Libreria Acqua Alta

Tucked away in one of Venice’s quieter corners, Libreria Acqua Alta is a unique bookstore that has become a favorite among tourists and locals alike.

Its name translates to “Bookstore of High Water,” a fitting name as the store is filled with bathtubs, waterproof bins, and even a gondola, all filled with books to protect them from the city’s frequent floods.

Apart from its unconventional storage methods, the bookstore is known for its wide range of books, from brand new bestsellers to antique books, all stacked in no particular order.

If you’re a book lover, visiting Libreria Acqua Alta is a must. It’s a unique experience that perfectly encapsulates Venice’s charming and unconventional spirit.

Plus, you might even find a special souvenir to remind you the best of Venice!

22. Museo Correr

Located at the far end of St. Mark’s Square, Museo Correr is an often-overlooked museum in Venice that offers a fascinating insight into Venetian art, history, and culture.

And it would be a shame to miss it, as the entrance to Museo Correr is included in the Doge’s Palace ticket!

The museum houses a vast collection of artworks, historical documents, maps, coins, and more that span centuries.

One of the museum’s highlights is the Neoclassical section, which houses works from Canova, one of Italy’s greatest sculptors.

It also offers a stunning view of St. Mark’s Square from its windows – a perfect photo opportunity.

Remember to book your tickets to the Doge’s Palace (that include Correr museum) by clicking here.

23. Basilica di San Giovanni e Paolo

The Basilica di San Giovanni e Paolo, known in Venice as San Zanipolo, is one of the city’s largest and most important churches.

It holds a special place in Venice’s history, as many Doges (leaders of the Venetian Republic) are buried here, lending it the nickname “Pantheon of Venice.”

The basilica’s stunning interior is filled with precious art pieces, including paintings by famous Venetian artists such as Veronese and Bellini.

However, the real charm of this place lies in its tranquil, relatively undiscovered status.

24. Santa Maria Formosa

One of Venice’s oldest churches, Santa Maria Formosa, is not only a place of worship but also a storehouse of local legends.

As the story goes, the Virgin Mary herself appeared to St. Magnus, the bishop of Oderzo, in a vision and instructed him to build a church in her honor at this site.

In addition to the grandeur of the church and its beautiful bell tower, the area around Santa Maria Formosa is a charming part of Venice known for its art galleries and boutique stores.

As you walk around the neighborhood, you will find numerous unique pieces of Venetian artistry and craftsmanship to bring back home.

Included in the City Pass.

25. Chiesa di Santa Maria dei Miracoli

The Chiesa di Santa Maria dei Miracoli, often called the Miracle Church, is a small but really nice church from the Renaissance period, notable for its marble-clad exterior and interior.

Despite its small size, it packs a lot of detail that is worth taking the time to appreciate.

Included in the City Pass.

26. Museo di Storia Naturale

For those with a love for nature and the sciences, Venice’s Museo di Storia Naturale, or Natural History Museum, offers a fascinating journey through our natural world.

Housed in the stunning Fondaco dei Turchi, a palace with its origins dating back to the 13th century, the museum’s exhibits span millions of years of natural history.

From prehistoric fossils to displays showcasing present-day biodiversity and ecology, this museum is the perfect place to learn more about life on Earth.

You need to book your tickets to the Museo di Storia Naturale by clicking on the button below:

Entrance to the museo is included with Venice city Pass.

27. Museo Storico Navale

While you’re in the St. Mark’s area, consider a visit to the Museo Storico Navale, or the Naval History Museum.

This museum, located in the Castello district, offers a deep dive into Venice’s maritime history.

From the grand ship models to naval instruments and weapons, this museum gives you a comprehensive view of Venice’s naval prowess and its maritime history.

It’s a must-visit for history buffs.

The Naval History Museum can be visited on the same day as your tour of St. Mark’s Square and Basilica, given its proximity.

Best Things to Do Around Venice

Venice’s charm doesn’t stop at the city’s borders!

After discovering all the best places to visit in Venice, you should spend some time to visit the surroundings.

In order to help you plan your visits, here are the 4 best day trips from Venice.

28. Visit the Venetian Islands: Murano, Burano, Torcello

Murano, Burano and Torcello are 3 islands in the Venetian lagoon that are each worth a day trip.

Murano, most famous for its centuries-old tradition of glassmaking, offers tourists the chance to visit glass factories or ‘fornaci’, where skilled artisans mold glass into intricate designs.

You can also visit the Museo del Vetro, where you’ll see historic and contemporary glass art.

From Murano, take a short boat ride to Burano, recognizable by its vibrant, multicolored houses. While here, make sure to visit a lacemaking workshop to witness a craft that dates back to the 16th century.

End your day at Torcello, the oldest inhabited island in the lagoon. Its main attraction is the Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta, home to stunning Byzantine mosaics.

29. Lido Beach

For a change of scenery, you can take a vaporetto (as always, you need your Venice City Pass with transport option or ACTV Card) to Lido Beach.

This long stretch of sand is the perfect place to unwind after a few days of sightseeing. Rent a cabana and relax in the sun, take a refreshing dip in the Adriatic Sea, or enjoy a picnic with local Italian delicacies.

Alternatively, you can take a walk around the island or rent a bike to discover its Art Nouveau villas, charming streets, and lush gardens.

Last but not least, Lido is also home to the Venice Film Festival, which takes place every September at the historic Palazzo del Cinema.

30. Verona

If you’re planning to spend a few days in Venice, you should consider a day trip to Verona, a nearby city listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Located only 1h30 drive from Venice, Verona is famous for its Roman history and the legendary love story of Romeo and Juliet.

Start your visit at the Verona Arena, a well-preserved Roman amphitheater that hosts opera performances in the summer.

Wander through the city’s cobblestone streets  and head to Juliet’s House, where you can see the famous balcony, take a picture with the statue of Juliet and leave a love note on the gate.

31. Discover the Prosecco Wine Region

The Prosecco region is a wine district in Italy between the towns of Conegliano Veneto and Valdobbiadene.

It’s the only area in the world where the world famous white sparkling wine, Prosecco DOCG, is produced.

Since 2019 this area has been added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites.

If you are looking for things to do in Venice or around the city, the Prosecco region is a great option! In fact, this area can be reached by car from Venice in around one hour.

Here are my favorite things to do in Prosecco wine region:

• Hike or bike along the Via del Prosecco: Many hotels can arrange bike rental
• Visit one of the many towns in the area, for example Cison di Valmarino (nominated one of the most beautiful villages in Italy), or Castelbrando, a fairytale castle up on a hill.
• Do a wine tasting workshop in one of the many wineries in the region
• Have a glass of wine watching the sunset while sitting in the vineyards
• Stop at one of the many restaurants or trattoria in the area and try one of the local specialties

If you have more time, you can combine the Prosecco wine region with the Dolomites and the Braies Lake, which are just a 2-3 hours drive away from here.

You can find more authentic places and hidden gems to discover around the Prosecco Region on Beating Jetlag.

32. Bonus – The Dolomite Mountains

You want to get away from the hustle and Bustle of Venice?

Then, you should head to the Dolomite Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and a must for nature lovers. These majestic peaks offer spectacular landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities.

In the summer, you can hike or bike on well-marked trails, while in the winter, you can ski or snowboard on world-class slopes.

Don’t miss a visit to the picturesque Lake Misurina or the famous Tre Cime di Lavaredo, 3 distinctive peaks that are one of the Dolomites’ most iconic sights.

Remember to check the weather before you go – it can change quickly in the mountains!

The best Tour to Dolomite Mountains includes Transfer from Venice with return and, of course, beautiful landscapes all along the way.

To book your day trip to the Dolomites, you just need to click on the button below:

How Many Days to Visit Venice?

How much time should you spend in Venice?

This depends on your personal preferences and the pace at which you like to travel. However, a typical recommendation is to plan for a 3 to 4-day trip.

This duration allows you to visit the main attractions like St. Mark’s Square, Doge’s Palace, and the Rialto Bridge.

It also leaves you with enough time to enjoy a gondola ride, visit the islands of Murano and Burano, and even explore a bit off the beaten path!

One Day in Venice

What are the best things to do in Venice in 1 day?

Here is the perfect itinerary to visit Venice in a day:

• First, go to Saint Mark’s Square
• Visit Saint Mark’s Basilica
• Climb the saint Mark’s campanile (provided you have booked your tickets in advance)
• Visit the doge’s Palace, and cross the Bridge of Sighs
• Optional, if you’re interested in this type of visit: Correr Museum (entrance included with Doge’s Palace ticket)
• Gondola tour on Venice’s Grand Canal
• Pass by the 3 most famous churches: Santa Maria Formosa / Basilica of San Giovanni e Paolo / Church of Santa Maria dei Miracoli
• Go to the rialto Bridge to end the day in style.

For this one-day itinerary in Venice, you should really buy the Venice city pass. It includes skip the line tickets for Saint Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace and a gondola ride.

It’s the best way to save time and be able to visit Venice’s must see attractions in one day!

You need to click on the button below to buy your Venice Pass:

2 Days in Venice

If you’d like to spend a weekend in Venice and have 2 days to visit the city of the Doges, I recommend the following itinerary:

Day 1

For the first day, you can do the itinerary I mentioned above for 1 day in Venice and visit St. Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace, do a Gondola Tour, go to the Rialto Bridge etc.

Day 2

• For art lovers, visit the Ca d’Oro
• Rialto Market
• Basilica of Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari
• Scuola Grande di San Roco
• Ca’Rezzonico
• Ponte dell Accademia
• Optional: the Accademia Gallery or Peggy Guggenheim Collection
• Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute
• Attend a concert or opera in Venice.

To easily plan your 2-day itinerary in Venice, you should read my dedicated article: The best 2-day Venice itinerary.

3 Days in Venice

If you have 3 days in Venice, you should do the itineraries I mentioned above for the 2 first days.

Then, for your 3rd day, you should explore the nearby islands of Burano, Murano and Torcello!

You can go there on your own, taking the boat between the islands each time, or opt for a guided tour with transport included from Saint Mark’s Square.

You can choose between a 6-hour tour (Burano + Murano + Torcello) or the 4h tour, only including Burano and Murano.

In order to help you plan your 3-day stay in Venice, I have written a detailed itinerary. Simply click here to read it: How to visit Venice in 3 days?

4 Days in Venice

For 4 days in Venice, simply do the 3 days itinerary I suggested above, and add for the 4th day:

Start your day with a visit to the island of San Giorgio Maggiore.

You can get there on your own by boat or or opt for the guided tour (boat trip + visit to the church and bell tower).

In the afternoon, you have 2 options:

1) You can stroll around Venice, see its many churches or visit the natural history or naval history museums, and of course do a bit of shopping.

2) Go to Lido island and beach for a relaxing afternoon.

Planning to spend 4 days in Venice? In that case, you should read my detailed article: The Perfect itinerary for 4 days in Venice.

5 Days in Venice (or more!)

Once you’ve explored the city and seen all the best places to visit in Venice, it’s time to explore the surrounding area.

Why not go on a day trip to Verona or discover the Dolomites?

Where to Stay in Venice?

Here is my selection of the best hotels in Venice depending on your budget.

If you already know your travel dates, you should book your hotel: Venice is super touristy and the best deals don’t last long!

So if you don’t want to end up with a very expensive mediocre room, book your hotel now by clicking on the orange links below:

• Generator Venice: Located on Giudecca. Beds in dormitories from €40. Strong points: very clean, comfortable bed, view.
• Il Lato Azzurro: Located on the picturesque island of Sant’Erasmo, a short boat ride from the bustling streets of Venice. Double rooms, beginning at 85€ per night, with breakfast included. What I loved: the peaceful island location, the garden, the bright rooms.
• Casa Sulla Laguna: Located on Murano, a short boat ride of Venice. Double room overlooking the lagoon, from €120. Strong points: the friendliness of the owners, the peace and quiet, and the quick and easy access to Venice. This is my favourite hotel in Venice for its exceptional value for money!
• San Lio Tourist House: Located in Castelleo district. Modern double room from €150. Strong points: perfect location, super helpful host, near the Rialto bridge.
• Hotel Villa Rosa: Located in the Cannaregio district. Elegantly decorated double room from €190, breakfast included. Strong points: great location, comfortable room, very friendly staff.
• Hotel Moresco: Situated just a short walk from the Grand Canal. This 4* hotel offers spacious and lavishly decorated double rooms, beginning at 330€ per night, with breakfast included. What I loved: the tranquil garden, the enchanting Venetian decor, the hotel’s short distance from key sights. The best hotel in Venice for a luxury stay!
  

If you’re looking for a luxury hotel to stay in Venice, here’s my selection:

• Radisson Collection Hotel: Located on Cannaregio. Well-decorated, comfortable double room from €520, breakfast included. Benefits: the spa, beautiful interior design, great service.
• Ca’di Dio-Small Luxury Hotel: Located 800 metres from the Doge’s Palace. Elegantly decorated double room from € 640 including breakfast. Strong points: great views, friendly and attentive staff, wonderful breakfast.
• Baglioni Hotel Luna – The leading hotels of the world: Just 50 metres from Piazza San Marco. Magnificent and very spacious double room from €690, breakfast €35. Strong points: exceptional staff, very central location, amazing breakfast.
• The St Regis Venice: Located on the banks of Venice’s Grand Canal. Beautiful, elegantly decorated rooms from €1,500 per night, breakfast €50. Strong points: exceptional services, amazing views, beautiful design.

Tourist map of Venice

To help you plan your visits, I have made a tourist map of Venice, with all the best places to visit, must see attractions and activities I talk about in this guide.

You can display the map legend by clicking on the top left button, the one with a small arrow.

Best time to visit Venice

Choosing the best time to visit Venice depends on what you want out of your trip.

This city has a unique charm in every season, but each time of the year offers a different experience.

1) Spring (April to June) is often considered one of the best times to visit Venice.

The weather is usually mild and pleasant, making it ideal for walking around and exploring. The city is starting to come alive with tourists, but it’s not as crowded as it gets in the summer.

2) Summer (July to August) is the busiest tourist season.

The city can be quite crowded, and the temperatures can be quite high.

However, you’ll find plenty of outdoor events and festivals to enjoy.

3) Autumn (September to November) is another good time to visit.

The tourist crowds start to thin out, and the weather, while cooler, is still generally good. Autumn also sees the Venice Film Festival taking place.

4) Winter (December to March) is the least crowded time to visit Venice.

The weather can be chilly, and you might experience acqua alta (high water), but you’ll have the city’s beauty almost to yourself.

Plus, if you time your visit right, you can experience the unique spectacle of the Venice Carnival.

If you need help planning your trip to Venice, don’t hesitate to ask me your questions in the comments section below!

Italy travel Guides

• Buy the Lonely Planet Italy guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
• Buy the Rick Steves Italy guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk

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