Venice 5 Day Itinerary

Venice: A 5-Day Itinerary

Introduction:

Welcome to Venice, the floating city! This itinerary offers a blend of iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and authentic Venetian experiences. Prepare for breathtaking canals, romantic gondolas, delicious cuisine, and an unforgettable journey through history and culture.

Things to Know:

  • Getting Around: Venice is pedestrian-friendly, but get ready to walk A LOT. Water taxis (vaporettos) are efficient for longer distances and exploring the lagoon islands. Gondola rides are romantic but pricey.
  • Currency: Euro (€)
  • Language: Italian (English widely spoken in tourist areas)
  • Dress Code: Comfortable shoes are essential, as cobblestone streets can be uneven. Dress modestly when visiting churches.

Where to Stay:

  • Budget: Generator Venice, Hotel Ai Mori d’Oriente
  • Mid-Range: Hotel Ala, Palazzo Abadessa
  • Luxury: The Gritti Palace, Hotel Danieli

Transportation:

  • From Airport (Marco Polo): Alilaguna water bus or ATVO bus to Piazzale Roma. From there, vaporetto or walking.
  • Within Venice: Vaporetto passes are recommended for unlimited travel. Gondolas are romantic but expensive (around €80-100 for a 30-minute ride).

Day 1: Grand Canal & Venetian Classics

  • Morning: Arrive in Venice, check into your hotel, and explore the Rialto Bridge, the oldest bridge spanning the Grand Canal.
  • Afternoon: Take a vaporetto down the Grand Canal, admiring the magnificent palazzos lining its banks. Disembark at St. Mark’s Square.
  • Evening: Visit Doge’s Palace (book tickets in advance) and climb Campanile di San Marco for panoramic city views. Enjoy dinner at Trattoria Al Gatto Nero for traditional Venetian fare.

Day 2: Islands & Art

  • Morning: Take a vaporetto to Murano, famous for its glassblowing. Watch artisans create intricate pieces and shop for unique souvenirs.
  • Afternoon: Ferry to Burano, renowned for its colorful houses and lacemaking. Enjoy lunch at Trattoria al Gatto Nero (no relation to the Venice one) for fresh seafood.
  • Evening: Return to Venice and explore the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, featuring modern art in a stunning palazzo setting.

Day 3: Doge’s Palace & Rialto Market

  • Morning: Re-visit Doge’s Palace and delve deeper into its history. Explore the Bridge of Sighs connecting it to the prison.

  • Afternoon: Immerse yourself in the vibrant Rialto Market, filled with fresh produce, seafood, and local specialties.

  • Evening: Enjoy a cicchetti (Venetian tapas) crawl through the charming bacari (wine bars) of Cannaregio, sampling local wines and bites.

Day 4: Hidden Gems & Gondola Ride

  • Morning: Visit the serene Church of San Giorgio Maggiore on the island of Giudecca for stunning views of Venice.

  • Afternoon: Take a gondola ride through the quieter canals of San Polo or Dorsoduro, experiencing the city from a unique perspective.

  • Evening: Indulge in a fine dining experience at Ristorante Quadri, overlooking St. Mark’s Square, for an unforgettable culinary journey.

Day 5: Departure & Souvenirs

  • Morning: Visit the Frari Church, admire Titian’s masterpiece “Assumption of the Virgin,” and soak up the atmosphere one last time.

  • Afternoon: Stroll through the charming streets near your hotel, pick up souvenirs (masks, Murano glass, local delicacies) at artisan shops, and enjoy a final Venetian lunch.

  • Evening: Depart from Venice, carrying with you cherished memories of this magical city.

Tips:

  • Book accommodation and popular attractions in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Learn some basic Italian phrases for a more immersive experience.
  • Be aware of pickpockets, particularly in crowded areas like St. Mark’s Square.
  • Embrace the slower pace of life and savor every moment!

Enjoy your unforgettable Venetian adventure!