Venice Italy 5 Day Itinerary

5-Day Venice Itinerary:

This itinerary focuses on the classic Venetian experience with a mix of iconic landmarks, local charm, and off-the-beaten-path discoveries.

Where to Stay:

  • Recommendation: Consider staying in a “sestiere” (district) like San Polo for its central location and vibrant atmosphere.
  • Things to consider:
    • Budget: Venice offers accommodation options for all budgets, from charming hostels in the heart of the city to luxurious canal-side hotels.

Where to Eat:

  • Bacaro culture: Explore the Venetian tradition by hopping between “bacari” (small wine bars) and sampling cicchetti (Venetian tapas).
  • Local favorites: This itinerary includes suggestions for classic Venetian dishes, but feel free to swap them out for your own preferences.
    • Osteria Al Ponte: Authentic Venetian cuisine with a charming atmosphere (try the seafood pasta!)
    • Cantina Do Mori: Historic “bacaro” offering delicious cicchetti and local wines.
    • Trattoria da Fiore: Popular spot for traditional dishes like “spaghetti alle vongole” and “sarde in saor”

Day 1: Grand Canal & Venetian History

  • Morning: Arrive in Venice and check into your chosen accommodation.
  • Afternoon:
    • Stroll along the Grand Canal, taking in the stunning architecture of the palaces (palazzi) and enjoying the views from bridges and canals.
    • Enjoy a gondola ride for a romantic and unique experience.

Eat:

  • Lunch: Indulge in a “cicchetti” crawl, visiting various bacari in the area and savoring local delicacies like:
    • Bacaro & Restaurant: Grab some lunch at a traditional Venetian “bacaro” (like Cantina Do Mori) serving classic dishes. This is a great way to experience the local cuisine!
  • Dinner: Enjoy a meal with a view at a rooftop restaurant in San Polo, a charming neighborhood known for its authentic Venetian atmosphere and delicious “cicchetti” (try Osteria Al Ponte for traditional charm).

Where to stay:

  • Budget: Generator Venice Hostel (hostel rooms and social events)
  • Mid-range/Luxury: The Gritti Palace for a truly Venetian experience.

Day 2: Doge’s Palace & St. Mark’s Square

  • Morning: Explore the Doge’s Palace, a masterpiece of Venetian Gothic architecture and once the seat of the Venetian government. Admire the artwork and historical significance of this stunning landmark.
  • Afternoon: Enjoy a leisurely walk through Venice’s charming streets (calli) and canals, exploring hidden corners and local life.

See:

  • Osteria Alle Testiere: Indulge in fresh seafood and traditional Venetian “cicchetti” at this renowned restaurant.
  • St. Mark’s Basilica: Visit the iconic basilica for its stunning mosaics and architecture.

Day 3: Doge’s Palace & Venice: A Culinary Journey

  • Morning: Explore the Doge’s Palace, focusing on the historical significance of the building and its role in Venetian history.
  • Afternoon: Take a boat tour (vaporetto) to see the islands of Murano (famous for glassblowing) and Burano, known for its colorful houses and traditional “lacemaking” tradition

Eat:

  • Dinner: Enjoy a delicious “cicchetti” crawl, starting with the “Bacaro & Restaurant” experience.
  • Enjoy a cooking class: Learn to prepare some of Venice’s famous dishes like “risotto al nero di sepia” (squid ink risotto) or “tiramisu.”

Day 4: Island Exploration & Venetian Art

  • Visit the colorful island of Burano and learn about the intricate lacemaking that has made it a local icon.
  • Explore the canals: Take a gondola ride through the romantic canals of Venice.
  • Discover the colorful history and architecture: Wander through the vibrant “campo” (square) in San Polo, where locals gather for their “aperitivo” hour.

Day 5: Gondola Ride & Farewell Feast

  • Enjoy a leisurely gondola ride through the canals of Venice.
  • Visit the Peggy Guggenheim Collection: Explore the modern art museum housed in a stunning Venetian palace.
  • Enjoy a final “cicchetto” experience: Indulge in a delicious “tagliere” (cheese and charcuterie platter) with local wines at a charming neighborhood restaurant, like those you might find on the island of Giudecca.

Eat:

  • Vaporetto stops: Indulge in a traditional Venetian lunch at a “bacaro” near the Rialto Bridge.
  • Sample the local cuisine: Enjoy “cichetti” (a variety of small snacks) and “bacari” (Venetian wine bars) for a unique “Venetian bacari” experience.

Things to Know:

  • Venice is car-free, so you’ll be exploring on foot or by water taxi.
  • Venice uses the Euro (€).
  • The city is built on canals, so consider using a “vaporetto” (water bus) for transportation, especially along the islands of the lagoon.

Transportation:

  • Vaporetto: The Venice vaporetto system is an efficient way to get around the city. Purchase a ticket from a “vaporeto” stop and be sure to validate it upon boarding.
  • Gondola Rides: For a more traditional experience, consider taking a gondola ride through the Venetian canals.

Tips:

  • Get a “vaporeto” pass for unlimited rides on the vaporetto.
  • Visit during the shoulder season (spring or fall)) for fewer crowds and milder weather.

Beyond the basics:

  • Venice is a city of many bridges, so be sure to explore some beyond the Rialto Bridge.
  • Try “cichetti” at a traditional Venetian bar. This is a great way to experience the local food and drink culture.

This itinerary provides a framework for exploring Venice’s unique blend of art, history, and culture.

Remember:

  • Validate your tickets on the vaporetto, as you can be fined for not doing so.
  • Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking on uneven cobblestones.

Enjoy the experience!