Weekend in Venice: the best itinerary for 2 days + Where to stay

You’re planning to spend 2 days in Venice and you’re looking for the best things to do?

You’re at the right place!

In order to help you plan your stay, I have prepared for you this 2-day itinerary in Venice.

During your trip, you will discover all must-see attractions of the city such as the Saint Mark Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, a gondola ride and a lot more!

In addition to the best places to visit and activities for each stage of your itinerary, I will also give you all my best tips and accommodation suggestions depending on your budget.

So, what are the best places to visit in Venice in 2 days? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

How to avoid waiting in line (and save a lot of time!) at Venice’s tourist attractions

When you plan a trip to one of the globe’s most popular tourist destinations, it’s not unusual to anticipate hours of standing in line to access some of the most iconic sites.

In Venice, landmarks such as the Doge’s Palace or St. Mark’s Basilica draw crowds as soon as their doors open, filled with individuals who, just like you, dream of exploring the Venetian marvels.

However, there’s no need for concern. I’m here to provide you with several tips and tricks to bypass those long lines and make the most of your 2-day itinerary in Venice!

Here are three strategies to maximize your time during your weekend in Venice.

1. The Venice Pass

The top solution to save substantial time and money during your 2-day trip in Venice is to get the “Venice Pass”.

This is very convenient: it enables you to skip the lines and gain priority entry to the city’s most popular tourist sites.

Another perk: the Venice Pass is entirely digital. There’s no need to fetch your tickets anywhere; you’ll get them instantly via email!

When purchasing the Venice Pass, you’ll have to book a specific date and time slot for the included tours.

Here’s what the pass comprises of:

• Fast-track entrance ticket to St. Mark’s Basilica (1st day of my itinerary)
• Skip-the-line entrance to the Doge’s Palace (1st day)
• A gondola ride (1st day)
• An audio guide app with narrations for all major sites
• A 10% discount on other activities in Venice that you can book via the Tiqets website.

Personally, I consider the Venice Pass to be the best option for a 2-day Venice visit!

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

2. The Venice City Pass

An alternate way to explore Venice in 2 days and getting priority access to the city’s top attractions is to purchase the Venice City Pass.

It is quite similar to the previously mentioned Venice Pass, as it’s also entirely digital.

The difference here is that you’ll need to select the duration of the pass’s validity at the time of booking. For a 2-day stay in Venice, the choice is straightforward: opt for the 2-day Venice City Pass.

The Venice City Pass grants admission to the following:

• Doge’s Palace
• 11 museums: Museo Correr, Archaeological Museum, Biblioteca Marciana, Ca’Rezzonico, Ca’Pesaro, Glass Museum on Murano Island, Natural History Museum, Mocenigo Palace, Carlo Goldoni House, Lace Museum on Burano Island, Fortuny Museum.
• 16 churches: Santa Maria del Giglio, San Stae, Santo Stefano, Sant’Alvise, Santa Maria Formos, San Pietro di Castello, Santa Maria dei Miracoli, Santissimo Redentore, S.Giovanni Elemosinario, Santa Maria del Rosario, San Polo, San Sebastiano, San Giacomo dall’Orio, San Giobbe, Santa Maria del Carmelo, S.Giovanni Battista in Bragora
• Querini Stampalia Foundation.

This pass also allows you to use the public transport network at no extra cost during your 48 hours in Venice (bus and waterbus on the ACTV network).

A slight caveat: St. Mark’s Basilica admission is not included. You’ll need to purchase an additional ticket if you wish to visit it.

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

3. Skip-the-line tickets for Venice’s tourist attractions

Your third option to save time is to buy priority entrances one by one, for each tourist attraction you want to visit.

You will find tickets online for the main historical monuments as well as guided visits and activities. Perfect to easily organize your 2-day stay!

Just click on the name of the monuments below to get more information and book your tickets:

2 Days in Venice – Must-See Attractions:

• Saint Mark’s Basilica
• Guided tour of Saint Mark’s Basilica
• Saint Mark’s campanile
• Doge’s Palace
• Guided tour of the Doge’s Palace + Saint Mark’s Basilica
• Secret of Doge’s Palace VIP tour
• Gondola tour
• Private gondola ride
• Venice secrets spots walking tour
• Ca d’Oro
• Rialto Market
• Guided tour of Venice wine bars + food tastings
• Ca’Rezzonico
• Accademia Gallery
• Peggy Guggenheim Collection
• Private tour of Peggy Guggenheim
• Concert or opera in Venice
• Excursion to Burano + Murano + Torcello
• Excursion to Burano + Murano
• Kayak tour on Venice canals
• Ghost tour
• Teatro La Fenice
• Guided tour of teatro La Fenice
• Scala Contarini del Bovolo
• Museo di Storia Naturale
• ACTV Card, also called “Vaporetto Pass” to use public transportation
• Day trip to Verona
• Day trip to the Dolomites

Venice in 2 days: the best itinerary

Let’s now plan your 48-hour itinerary in Venice!

For this itinerary, I assume you will be spending 2 full days in Venice and purchased a City Pass (Venice Pass / Venice City pass) or have purchased Skip-the-Line tickets. 

That’s the best way to save time and money during your stay!

If you still have questions after reading this guide or need help planning you holiday, don’t hesitate to ask me your questions in the comments section located at the end of this article.

So, what are the best places to visit in Venice in 2 days?

Day 1 of this Venice itinerary – Heart of Venice

Day 1 visits:

A. Saint Mark’s Square
B. Saint Mark’s Basilica
C. Saint Mark’s campanile
D. Doge’s Palace
E. Optional: Correr Museum
F. Gondola tour
G. Santa Maria Formosa / Basilica of San Giovanni e Paolo / Church of Santa Maria dei Miracoli
H. Rialto Bridge

A. Saint Mark’s Square

The heart of Venice and undoubtedly its most famous landmark, Saint Mark’s Square is where your 2-day tour of Venice should begin.

This historic square has been the city’s social, religious, and political center for centuries. It’s surrounded by beautiful historical buildings with impressive architecture.

Under the arcades of the buildings, you’ll also find shops and cafés, ideal for breakfast before a day of sightseeing.

B. Saint Mark’s Basilica

Next up, step into the breathtaking Saint Mark’s Basilica.

Known for its intricate mosaics and impressive domes, this basilica is a testament to Venice’s rich history and its ties to the Byzantine Empire.

Inside, you’ll discover a treasury of art, from the stunning Pala d’Oro, encrusted with thousands of precious stones, to the beautiful frescoes.

Make sure to look up and admire the golden mosaics, depicting episodes from the Bible and the life of Saint Mark.

During your visit, you will also be able to learn the Basilica’s history through the museum and to admire a nice view from the Basilica’s terrace.

Please note that you need to be dress modestly (shoulders and knees should be covered) to visit Saint Mark’s Basilica.

As I mentioned before, you should really buy a skip the line tickets in advance. As you can imagine, Saint Mark’s Basilica of Venice attracts thousands of people every day who are waiting in lines for hours before entering (just because they didn’t read Voyage Tips! 😅).

If you have bought the Venice Pass, the Basilica’s skip the line ticket is already included so you don’t have to worry about the queue.

Without the pass, you have 2 others options to avoid waiting:

• The classic skip-the-line ticket:

• A guided tour, to learn more about St Mark’s Basilica and its history:

C. Saint Mark’s Campanile

Your 2 days in Venice wouldn’t be complete without enjoying a panoramic view of the city.

And the best place for that?

Saint Mark’s Campanile!

This bell tower, standing proudly in Saint Mark’s Square, offers an unparalleled view of Venice’s rooftops, winding canals, and distant islands.

And you can get on the top very easily after a brief elevator ride!

Please note that the ascent to the Campanile in Venice is limited to 30 people per time slot and is not included in the Pass.

You must therefore book your visit online in advance by clicking here:

D. Doge’s Palace

To continue your 2-day trip to Venice, let’s dive deeper into Venice’s rich history with a visit to the Doge’s Palace, located right next to the Campanile.

This grand Gothic structure was the residence of the Doge of Venice, the city’s supreme authority. As you wander through its opulent rooms and grand corridors, you’ll get a glimpse of the city’s former splendor.

The history of this palace speaks of power, politics, and intrigue.

Don’t miss the majestic Grand Council Chamber and the ornate Golden Staircase.

You will also pass by the famous Bridge of Sighs, connecting the palace to the prisons. Legend has it that prisoners would sigh at their last view of beautiful Venice before their confinement – thus giving the bridge its evocative name.

E. Optional: Correr Museum

Located just at the opposite end of Saint Mark’s Square from the Basilica, the Correr Museum offers a comprehensive look into Venice’s art, history, and culture.

From beautiful artworks to historical exhibits, the museum paints a picture of the city’s past and its prominent figures.

My favorite part was the Neoclassical rooms, showcasing the life of the Venetian aristocracy. You’ll appreciate the detailed interiors and the vast collection of artifacts.

If you’re an art and history enthusiast, you should definitely consider adding this to your 2 days in Venice itinerary. And you don’t have to pay the entrance to the museum as it’s already included with the Doge’s Palace ticket!

F. Gondola Tour on Venice’s Grand Canal

When you think of visiting Venice in 2 days, you probably imagine a romantic gondola ride.

As cliché as it might sound, it truly is an iconic Venetian experience. Floating through the city’s narrow canals, passing under historic bridges, and seeing Venice from a different perspective is something special.

And it will be even more special if you get a gondolier who sings!

If you have bought the Venice Pass, you can take a beautiful gondola ride, which is included in the price.

Otherwise, in order to avoid paying the tourist price, you should book your gondola ride in advance by clicking here:

If you want a more intimate experience, opt for a ride in the evening when the city takes on a magical hue and is less crowded.

Book your private gondola ride at sunset by clicking here!

G. Santa Maria Formosa / Basilica of San Giovanni e Paolo / Church of Santa Maria dei Miracoli

Venice isn’t just about its popular landmarks. Part of the city’s charm lies in its lesser-known gems such as these 3 beautiful churches:

• Santa Maria Formosa (located 5 minutes by foot from Piazza San Marco)

Known for its interesting shape and stunning artworks, this church is a harmonious blend of Renaissance and Baroque styles. Inside, you can see the beautifully painted ceilings.

It’s free with the Venice City Pass.

• Basilica of San Giovanni e Paolo – Located 4 minutes’ walk from Santa Maria

Often called ‘San Zanipolo‘ by locals, this gigantic Gothic church houses the tombs of many Doges. It’s an architectural marvel and a place of immense historical significance.  You should definitely explore its chapels.

Entrance isn’t included in the pass, price is around 3.50€.

• Church of Santa Maria dei Miracoli, only a 5-minute walk away

This small but beautiful marble church was my personal favorite. Its facade is adorned with colorful marbles and the interiors are equally impressive. You will see, it’s an underrated masterpiece!

It’s also free with the Venice City Pass.

H. Rialto Bridge

Ending your first day at the Rialto Bridge is a must.

As one of the four bridges spanning the Grand Canal in Venice, it’s an iconic structure that has been a commercial and architectural hub for centuries.

The views of the Grand Canal from the bridge, especially during sunset, are simply magical.

If you’re keen on capturing some memorable photos, linger around till the evening lights illuminate the waters, creating a picturesque scene. It’s a sight to remember during your weekend in Venice.

After all that, all you have to do is go and dine in a good trattoria!

Day 2 of your weekend in Venice – Continue exploring Venice (option 1)

The first option for your second day is to continue visiting the most popular place to see during a 2-day itinerary in Venice.

However if you prefer to discover Murano and Burano, the most famous island around Venice, I have also written a second option that you can read a bit below.

Day 2 visits: (option 1)

A. Ca d’Oro
B. Rialto market
C. Basilica of Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari
D. Scuola Grande di San Roco
E. Ca’Rezzonico
F. Ponte dell Accademia
G. Optional: the Accademia Gallery or Peggy Guggenheim Collection
H. Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute
I.  Concert or opera in Venice

A. Ca d’Oro

Begin your second day in Venice at the iconic Ca d’Oro, which translates to the “Golden House”. Originally, this palace was adorned with gold accents which have faded over time, but its beauty certainly hasn’t.

Situated along the Grand Canal (take the Vaporetto and stop at “Ca d’Oro”), it’s a stunning example of Venetian Gothic architecture with a beautiful marble facade.

Now an art museum, inside you’ll find an impressive collection of Renaissance art.

The inner courtyard is a peaceful retreat, and the balcony provides a nice view of the canal. I really loved how the history and artistry of Venice came together in this place.

If you’re visiting Venice in 2 days, this is a sight you shouldn’t miss.

B. Rialto Market

After soaking in some art and history, head over to the lively Rialto Market.

From Ca d’Oro, you  have 2 options to reach the market, which is located on the other side of the Grand Canal, just at the opposite of the palazzio:

• Take the Vaporetto and stop at the “Rialto Mercato” stop.
• Take the Traghetto, which is a special gondola used by local to cross. It’s up to 10 people and only cost 2€ per person. To go to the market, you need to take the Traghetto de Santa Sofia.

You will then arrive at this bustling market, with its array of colors, sounds, and scents, which offers a genuine slice of Venetian daily life.

If you’re wondering about the best things to do in 2 days in Venice, mingling with the locals here should be on your list. From fresh fish to seasonal produce and local specialties, you can find it all.

Remember to visit in the morning when the market is at its most vibrant, and the produce freshest. This is where I found some of the best local product, perfect for a quick snack while exploring.

The Rialto Market is open from Tuesday to Saturday. 

C. Basilica of Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari

Venice isn’t short of magnificent churches, and the Basilica of Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari stands out as one of the finest.

Hidden away in the San Polo district, a 10 minute-walk from the market, this church, often simply called “Frari”, is a gothic masterpiece.

Its sheer size and the towering bell tower are super impressive!

Inside, it houses some of the city’s most treasured art pieces, including works by Titian. The wooden choir stalls and the intricate tombs add to the charm. It’s a must-visit during your weekend in Venice.

Useful information:

• Open Monday to Saturday – 9am to 6pm
• Sunday afternoons from 1pm
• Admission costs €5 (+ 2€ if you want an audioguide).

D. Scuola Grande di San Roco

Just a short walk from Frari, you’ll come across the Scuola Grande di San Roco.

At first glance, it may seem like just another Venetian building, but once you step inside, you’ll see an incredible collection of paintings by Tintoretto, making it an art lover’s paradise.

Each room is filled with masterpieces, depicting various religious scenes. I was particularly taken by the ceiling of the Chapter Hall.

Tickets for the Scuola Grande can only be purchased directly on site. Admission costs €10.

E. Ca’Rezzonico

To wrap up your 2 days in Venice, make your way to Ca’Rezzonico.

This grand palazzo on the Grand Canal offers a deep dive into the 18th-century Venetian life.

Every floor of this museum is a journey back in time, with lavishly decorated rooms, chandeliers, frescoes, and period furniture.

The ballroom on the third floor was my favorite. Just imagining the grand parties and gatherings that took place there is exhilarating.

As you stroll through the rooms, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the city’s rich history and opulence. 

Ca’Rezzonico is open every day except on Tuesday. Admission to the palazzo is included with the Venice City Pass.

F. Ponte dell Accademia

From Ca’ Rezzonico, take the Vaporetto and stop at “Academia”.

From the Ponte dell’Accademia you can admire the panoramic views of the Grand Canal and the historic Venetian buildings lining its edges.

This iconic bridge, one of only four that span the Grand Canal, offers an unrivaled perspective of Venice. Pausing here for a few minutes is a must during your Venice itinerary.

It’s simply one of the best photo spots in Venice!

G. Optional: the Accademia Gallery or Peggy Guggenheim Collection

Art aficionados visiting Venice in 2 days now face a challenging choice: the traditional art at the Accademia Gallery or the contemporary masterpieces at the Peggy Guggenheim Collection?

At the Accademia Gallery, I was deeply impressed by the vast collection of Venetian art, spanning from the Byzantine era to the 18th century. The works of Bellini, Titian, and Tintoretto are simply awe-inspiring.

Book your tickets for the Gallery by clicking here!

On the other hand, the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, housed in the former residence of the American heiress, is a haven for lovers of 20th-century art. Picasso, Dali, Kandinsky — Numerous world class artists are represented here!

In addition to the museum, I really enjoyed the sculpture garden, a peaceful green oasis amidst the bustling city.

You need to buy your ticket for the Guggenheim by clicking on the button below:

The museum also offers private guided tours with a specialized art guide which need to be booked by clicking here.

H. Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute

Perched at the entrance of the Grand Canal, the majestic Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute stands as a symbol of Venice’s resilience.

Constructed as a votive offering for the city’s deliverance from the plague, its sheer size and grandeur are very impressive.

You will easily recognize it thanks to its iconic dome that dominates the Venetian skyline, beckoning visitors to explore its interiors.

Inside, the vast, octagonal space, adorned with works by Titian, offers a moment of quiet reflection. I really loved how the afternoon light filtered through its large windows, casting ethereal patterns on the marble floors.

And I also really appreciated that the entrance was free 😃.

If you wish, you can also book a guided tour (for a fee) to visit the Sacristy and the dome with a guide.

Check the opening times before you go, as they vary considerably depending on the season and the day.

I. Concert or opera in Venice

For your last evening and to truly immerse yourself in Venetian culture, you can attend a concert or opera.

Venice has a rich musical heritage, being the birthplace of Antonio Vivaldi and a hub for baroque music. Whether you’re an opera aficionado or simply looking for a memorable night out, the city’s historic theaters and intimate concert venues offer something for everyone.

If you want to spend an evening in luxury and elegance and attend an opera, you can go to La Fenice, Venice’s teatro. The list of shows can be found here, but expect them to be very expensive.

If you don’t want to spend so much money but still want to have a great time with a quality concert, I recommend you choose between:

• The Four Seasons concert at Vivaldi Church (click here for more information): attend a classical concert at Santa Maria della Visitazione.

• Opera in an historic palace on the Grand Canal: the opera takes place at the Palazzo Barbarigo-Minotto. It’s the perfect choice if you’re looking for a unique, small group experience!

Day 2 of this trip to Venice – Option 2

Here is an alternative itinerary for your second day in Venice.

A. Morning – Exploring Venice

For the morning, you should choose between 2 or 3 of the visits I’ve just mentioned in option 1:

• Ca d’Oro
• Rialto market
• Basilica of Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari
• Scuola Grande di San Roco
• Ca’Rezzonico
• The Accademia Gallery
• The Peggy Guggenheim Collection

B. Visiting Venice’s islands: Murano and Burano

For the rest of the day, I recommend visiting the 2 best-known islands around Venice: Murano and Burano.

You’ll need to take the Vaporetto to the Fondamente Nove stop to get to Murano.

The island is famous for its many glassblowers’ workshops. If you want to see a demonstration and visit a workshop, you need to book here:

In Murano, you can also take part in a glass-blowing workshop. Here, you’ll carry out a few steps yourself, under the supervision of the master glassblower.

You need to book this unique activity here:

While you’re in Murano, you can also visit the glass museum and the church of Santa Maria.

After that, you can take the Vaporetto to Burano. The island’s speciality is lace weaving.

You’ll find plenty of shops selling all kinds of hand-woven lace objects.

The island is also famous for its pretty houses with colourful facades, which are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

To make sure you don’t miss a thing, you can book a guided tour with a local by clicking here!

C. Ponte dell Accademia + Concert or Opera

Take the Vaporetto back to Venice.

You can stop at the Ponte dell Accademia to admire the view.

In the evening, you can attend one of the concerts or operas I already mentioned in option 1.

Where to stay in Venice

Now that you know how to visit Venice in 2 days, you will need to find an hotel.

In order to help you out, here are my favorite hotels of the city, each in a different price category.

And as always, if you already know your travel dates, book your hotel right now! In Venice, the best hotels are fully booked very quickly.

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.

More things to do in 2 days in Venice

If you’re looking to modify this weekend in Venice itinerary or you’re simply looking to add 1 or 2 extra activities, you should have a look at my detailed guide of the city.

You will find it here: The 31 best things to do in Venice!

And if you want to spend more time in Venice, don’t hesitate to read my longer itineraries: 3 Days in Venice and 4 days in Venice.

Map of your 2-day itinerary in Venice

To help you visualize your daily itineraries during your 2 days in Venice, I have created this map with all the places to visit day by day.

You can view the legend of the map by clicking on the top left button, the one with a little arrow.

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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