A Perfect 2-Day Venice Itinerary
Wondering how to make the most of two days in Venice? To help you navigate the city’s canals and alleys, we’ve partnered with Riddhi from @beantowntraveller. As a seasoned travel blogger, Riddhi has explored the best of what Venice has to offer and shared her top recommendations with us. Based on her insights, here is a practical itinerary for spending two perfect days in this unforgettable city.
Venice Itinerary: Day 1
Day one is focused on Venice’s most iconic sights, centered around the sestiere (district) of San Marco and the famous Rialto Bridge. Prepare for a day of breathtaking architecture and historic landmarks.
St. Mark's Square (Piazza San Marco)
Start your morning in the grand public square of Venice. Surrounded by stunning architecture, it is the social and historical heart of the city. Arriving early helps you experience the space before the biggest crowds appear. From here, you can easily access several of the city’s most important landmarks.
Doge's Palace (Palazzo Ducale)
Located on St. Mark’s Square, the Doge’s Palace is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and the former seat of the Venetian government. Inside, you can explore the opulent chambers, courtyards, and the armory. Booking your tickets online in advance is highly recommended to avoid long queues.
Bridge of Sighs (Ponte dei Sospiri)
Connected to the Doge’s Palace, the Bridge of Sighs is an enclosed limestone bridge offering a final view of Venice to prisoners before they were taken to their cells. You can walk through the bridge as part of the Doge’s Palace tour or view it from the outside from the Ponte della Paglia.
St. Mark's Campanile (Campanile di San Marco)
For one of the best panoramic views of Venice and its lagoon, take the elevator to the top of St. Mark’s Campanile, the bell tower of St. Mark’s Basilica. The tower stands 98.6 meters (323 ft) tall, and the viewpoint is an ideal spot for photos.
Rialto Bridge (Ponte di Rialto)
A short walk from St. Mark’s Square, the Rialto Bridge is the oldest of the four bridges spanning the Grand Canal. It is a bustling hub lined with shops and offers fantastic views of the waterway traffic.
Scala Contarini del Bovolo
Tucked away from the main tourist paths, this unique architectural gem features an external spiral staircase. For an entry fee of around €9, you can climb the “snail staircase” for a rewarding view of the Venetian rooftops.
Where to Eat on Day 1
For a quick and satisfying lunch, Riddhi suggests pasta from Dal Moro’s Fresh Pasta To Go. For a treat, try the famous tiramisu from I Tre Mercanti or grab a scoop of gelato from Suso, known for its creative and high-quality flavors.
Venice Itinerary: Day 2
On your second day, explore beyond the main square to discover charming bookshops, historic theatres, and quieter canals, with an optional trip to the colorful nearby islands.
Libreria Acqua Alta
This unique bookstore has become famous for its creative flood-prevention measures. Books are stored in bathtubs, waterproof bins, and even a full-sized gondola to protect them from the city’s high tides (acqua alta). It’s a fascinating place to browse and take photos.
Teatro La Fenice
As one of Italy’s most famous opera houses, Teatro La Fenice is a stunning example of historic architecture. You can take a self-guided audio tour to explore its gilded interior for an entry fee of around €12 or check the schedule to see a performance.
Ponte Dell'Accademia (Accademia Bridge)
This wooden bridge offers one of the most classic and picturesque views of the Grand Canal, looking out towards the Santa Maria della Salute basilica. It’s a great spot for photos, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Giardini Reali (Royal Gardens)
Located just off St. Mark’s Square, the recently restored Royal Gardens provide a peaceful, green oasis away from the crowds. It’s a perfect place to take a short break and rest your feet.
Palazzo Tetta
For a unique photo opportunity, find Palazzo Tetta. This building is unusual because it is surrounded by canals on three sides, making it look like it is floating in its own small moat.
Catch the Sunset from Ponte degli Scalzi
Located near the Santa Lucia train station, the Ponte degli Scalzi (Bridge of the Barefoot) is a beautiful stone bridge and a prime location to watch the sunset over the Grand Canal.
Day Trip to Burano or Murano
If time allows, consider taking a vaporetto (water bus) to one of the nearby islands. Murano is world-famous for its glass-making traditions, while Burano is known for its brightly colored fishermen’s houses and lace-making.
Where to Eat on Day 2
Riddhi recommends trying authentic cicchetti (small snacks or side dishes) at Bacareto da Lele, a popular and affordable spot with a local feel. For coffee, visit Torrefazione Cannaregio, a historic coffee roaster. If you’re craving pizza, try 1000 Gourmet or grab a slice from Farini.
Planning Your Venice Adventure
Venice offers an incredible density of history, art, and culture. This two-day itinerary, built on the recommendations of Riddhi from @beantowntraveller, balances iconic landmarks with local favorites. From the grandeur of the Doge’s Palace to a simple cicchetti by a canal, Venice delivers a memorable experience at every turn.
For more detailed information to help you plan your travels in Venice, please visit our Venice city page.