If youre looking for a hotel thats affordable, centrally located, and full of Venetian charm, this is the place for you. For an individual or couple, one euro per person is fine, though you can leave more if you wish. Im Chelsea, a.k.a. Click here to view the full interactive map! Nearly all of your sightseeing is within a 20-minute walk of the Rialto Bridge or St. Mark's Square. We did this 2 days in Venice itinerary during the third week of October, and the only place that felt crowded was the Rialto Bridge. If you time things just right, you can have a morning espresso at Cafe Florian, the worlds oldest coffee shop. 
If you want the best of both worldsto see the famous sites AND the authentic side of the citythis Venice itinerary is for you. Be prepared to jockey for a good position on thePonte della Paglia, which offers the best view of the Bridge of Sighs. Dance across a floodlit square. Aside from the Rialto Bridge, the Bridge of Sighs is probably the most famous bridge in Venice. Personally, I think the best time to visit Venice is mid-late October. Unlike the other famous bridges of Venice, thePonte DellAccademia is better known for its view rather than its architecture. Everyone is too busy reading their phones or looking into their cameras. itinerary venice Built on a hundred islands with wealth from trade with the East, its exotic-looking palaces are laced together by sun-speckled canals. Embrace the explorer spirit and youll have a great time! 
Most people miss this free thing to do in Venice, which is surprising given its right next to the Rialto Bridge. This campo isnt as sprawling as some of the better-known ones, but it has a distinctly local vibe. 
15:30 Tour St. Mark's Basilica (closes at 17:00 in summer, at 16:00 in winter; best with our guidebooks' self-guided tour, or with the audio-tour version). Key considerations: Ninety percent of tourists congregate in a very narrow zone in the center. Venice and gondola rides go together like peanut butter and jelly. But does it actually live up to the hype? Book your stay at Hotel Locanda Canal today! Take one of the many guided theme tours available (we recommend several in our guidebooks). If you want to get a dose of history along with speedy entry, you can book a combined fast-track tour of the Doges Palace and St. Marks Basilica(this one also comes with access to the Bridge of Sighs!). I highly recommend the sardines in saor and the tiramisu. lagoon sunset 
In the warmer months, youll find plenty of people enjoying a cocktail or meal al fresco. The island's factories still produce ornate vases, beaded necklaces, and other goods. And he smiled and said, Yes, good, before walking into a nearby cafe. For COVID-19 Travel and RS Tours information, Between the patterned tile floor and light-filled ceilings, youll be close to swooning over the visual delights. enlarge If youre charged a servizio, you arent obliged to leave a tip. You can also take a standard private taxi from the airport to the train station area. While this pretty covered passage looks lovely, it had a far less romantic purpose: to connect theDoges Palace interrogation room to the Venetian prison. Now, I share authentic advice on how to maximize your vacation days, travel off the beaten path, and move abroad. Stroll across the Accademia Bridge (tour the Accademia only if you're an art lover and really energetic) and back to St. Mark's Square. Youve probably caught glimpses of the gorgeous Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute from across the Grand Canal. High speed train tickets come with reserved seats and space to store luggage, while regional trains do not. Bridge of Sighs Famous enclosed bridge, part of Doge's Palace, near St. Mark's Square. Scuola Dalmata di San Giorgio Exquisite Renaissance meeting house. When my husband reviewed my tentative 2 days in Venice itinerary, he was shocked that I hadnt included the Venetian Arsenal. Always read the menu and your bill carefully to see if servizio is included! Thanks to its unique rear staircase made of books, Libreria Acqua Alta is one of the top Instagram spots in Venice. But romance isn't what it used to be either. Hotel Locanda Canalsits on a quiet street within a five minute walk of Piazza San Marco. Litter grew out the tops of garbage cans like bums with bushy heads of hair. 2022 The Portable Wife. Our spacious room overlooked the canal below, and was elegantly decorated with antique wood furniture and a huge, comfy bed. Gene Openshaw is the co-author of the Rick Steves Venice guidebook. I had the same fear when crafting my 2 days in Venice itinerary. They have multiple locations throughout Venice, so youll have other chances to try them if youre too full! Plus, when the vendors close up and hose down the area, it forms tons of puddles that make for fun reflection shots like the one above. More multilingual menus featured Cyrillic, thanks to a huge increase in visitors from Russia. But first, well make a few stops along the way. The nearby alleys also make for a nice escape from the crowds. However, its about the same cost as the shared water taxi and much less exciting! For COVID-19 Travel and RS Tours information, the Palazzo Ducale, was constructed in the 14th century. 2022 Rick Steves' Europe, Inc. | 
As I wandered Venice's meandering streets and canalside walkways, it became obvious just how much the city is changing. Despite all the changes, Venice still awes me with its ethereal beauty and lovely views which can hit you from any direction (literally always look both ways after crossing over a Venetian bridge). I also suggest popping into the Piazza San Marco after sunset. Side-trip to Padua (3050 minutes away by train). The main basilica is free to enter, but the St. Marks Museum, treasury, and Pala dOro each have separate admission fees ranging from 2-5 euros. Remember that Venice itself is its greatest sight. 
Note that there are a few smaller islands, like Giudecca and Burano, that are only reachable by ferry. To help you plan your sightseeing, we've listed our ideal itineraries for Venice, whether you're going for one day, two days, three days, or more. Still, I love this place, with its smoke-stained mirrors, white-tuxedoed waiters, and finicky piano and string quartet, which somehow gets called an "orchestra." However, crossing the bridge is only half the fun. Without a doubt, it was my favorite stop during our two days in Venice itinerary. There may also be a servizio, or service charge, which is calculated as a percent of the final bill. On a recent trip to film two television shows and research my guidebook, the city felt different. Though tough for local businesses, this can be a good thing for travelers willing to hunker down in Venice for a few days. If youre anything like me, youll be itching to explore Venice the moment you arrive. Highlights include a towering Titian painting over the altar and an elaborately carved wooden Choir. Pop into a glass shop for a glass-blowing demo. ricksteves This covered market specializes in fresh seafood, with a few stalls dedicated to produce. venice 
Disturbing history aside, the Ponte dei Sospiriis truly stunning, especially when gondolas pass beneath its white arch. From atop the bridge, youll have two spectacular views of the Grand Canal and surrounding city. Admission to the Basilica is 3 euros and well worth it. I've been traveling to Venice for more than 30 years. It seems there aren't even lovers on gondolas anymore. casinos venice phone tourists booths locals alike nearly cell everyone days which change phonebooth ricksteves And first-time visitors are often stirred deeply, awaking from their ordinary lives to a fantasy world unlike anything they've ever experienced before. Imagine living in a small, expensive apartment that occasionally floods or pushing a stroller over arched bridges while carrying groceries. The Portable Wife. Youll come across dozens of campitown squaresin Venice. 
Church of San Polo Ninth-century church with works by Tintoretto, Veronese, and Tiepolo. Frari Church Franciscan church featuring Renaissance masters. There are also shared gondola rides, which are a bit cheaper than private ones. As you make your way southwest across the city, take some time to wander around the pretty alleys, bridges, and squares near Campo San Cassiano. Desperate to capture for our TV show someone kissing on a gondola, I walked briskly along a canal to get ahead of what I thought was a potentially romantic couple. Romantics revel in its atmosphere of elegant decay, seeing the peeling plaster and seaweed-covered stairs as a metaphor for beauty in decline. Booking ahead saves you money and ensures you wont be stuck in a queue, which is common during high season. 
Around the corner from the bridges southeast side, youll findT Fondaco dei Tedeschi, an elegant shopping center with an amazing rooftop terrace. When you cross a bridge, look both ways you may be hit with a lovely view. Either take a 15 minute walk, crossing the Ponte dellAccademia and heading east. The Rialto started out as a humble pontoon bridge in the 1100s and underwent several reconstructions to become what you see today. This private gondola ride starts at Campo Santo Stefano and fits perfectly with this Venice itinerary. venice locanda silva Punta della Dogana Museum of contemporary art. These open spaces are a nice contrast to the citys narrow alleys, and theyre home to bustling shops, cafes, and restaurants serving locals and visitors alike. San Michele Cemetery island on the lagoon. 16:00 Tour the Accademia museum (only if you're an art lover), then stroll across the Accademia Bridge and back to St. Mark's Square. Looking east, youll see the postcard view of Venice thats pictured above. If you arrive in Venice late in the day, try taking our self-guided Grand Canal cruise and St. Mark's Square tour (both are available as free audio tours). I dont always include restaurant recommendations in my itineraries. We sampled a lot of gelato in Venice, and this shop was definitely the best for creamy texture and rich flavor. Its an essential place to visit in Venice, even if it is over-touristed. Or, you could take the #1 vaporetto line from Giglio to Salute, the pier directly outside the basilica. People have been waxing poetic about Italys floating city for centuries. The sighs came from the prisoners taking one last look out at their beautiful city as they were escorted to a damp cell. You can walk across it, from head to tail, in about an hour. 10:00 Make your way to the Frari Church via the San Polo neighborhood, ideally following our guidebook's self-guided "Rialto to Frari Church Walk.". Plus, I believe Italy is a country best enjoyed at a relaxed pace. Stazione di Venezia Santa Luciasits on the citys northern edge, with multiple ferry and vaporetto terminals out front. see our FAQ. 13:00 Wander into the Dorsoduro district toward the Accademia museum, exploring and enjoying lunch along the way. Church of San Zaccaria Final resting place of St. Zechariah, plus a Bellini altarpiece and an eerie crypt. Peggy Guggenheim Collection Popular display of 20th-century art. 
Correr Museum Venetian history and art. With that in mind, here are our recommended priorities: Night Before: Walk or boat to the train station and then, aboard an empty vaporetto #1, take the self-guided "Grand Canal Cruise" to St. Mark's Square (as outlined in our guidebooks, or follow along with the free audio tour). The most important thing to pack for 2 days in Venice, Where to find free, clean drinking water in Venice, Why you should pay more for your Venice hotel, How to avoid the high price of a gondola ride, grab a map of all the public water fountains, Rick Steves Italy audio walking tour app, Venice History, Legend, Street Food & Wine By Cicchetti Tour, budget-friendly restaurant recommendations by The Guardian, 2.5-Hour Street Food Tour with a Local Guide, Wine and Food Tour Near Venices Jewish Quarter. A beautiful church. Venice's resident population continues to drop, thanks in part to the challenges of raising a family here. Glide in a gondola through quiet canals while music echoes across the water. 
If apartments are more your style, youre in luck. What I love most about the Frari is the contrast between its simple exterior and grand interior. Marble floors, gilded walls, dazzling frescoes each place is opulent in its own way, and deserves to be savored. Engineers love Venice a completely man-made environment rising from the sea, with no visible means of support. (28:59), Rome Florence Venice Trip - what tickets need to repurchase. The fastest and most unique option is the shared water taxi. 
11:00 Tour Murano, and (on weekdays) see glassworks. And Ill tell you exactly how to get there! When I commented on this to some locals, they explained that many tourists now blitz in for the day from cruise ships and cheap mainland hotels. Their outdoor terrace is covered in vines and illuminated at night, and the interior is packed with old world charm. The illuminated lamps and outdoor live music are a must see. marco san night piazza see our FAQ. If youre having trouble locating the alley, its near Fortuny Palace. Then, resume this itinerary from the Bridge of Sighs. We had the dock to ourselves for a long while, until we left so that a couple could use it for engagement photos. And while I do think exploring Venice on foot is best, taking a canal ride is a must have Venice experience. Its free to enter the main basilica, and 4 euros to visit the Sacristy where Titians artwork is displayed. Despite how it looks on the map, its very doable to walk from the train station to the city center with a small amount of luggage. Napoleons troops brought an end to the segregation at the very end of the 18th century, but the neighborhood remains an important place for Venetian Jews. Murano Island famous for glass factories and glassmaking museum. It's not just cruise ships that are changing Venice globalization is, too. Venice has what's considered one of the highest concentrations of art anywhere in the world. 
11:00 Tour the Frari Church (also covered by a free audio tour). However, this Venice itinerary assumes youll walk from the station. If you wait until the last minute to book a place, youll either end up paying a fortune or staying in a less-than-desirable hotel. As you meander to your hearts content, be sure to stop by theCampo del Ghetto Nuovo, where youll find several old synagogues, a WWII memorial, and the Jewish Museum of Venice. 
florence siena steves venice rick rome including maps italy ricksteves Pretend it's Carnevale time, don a mask or just a fresh shirt and become someone else for a night. Campo Santo Stefano is one of the largest, with multiple churches and brightly painted facades. Venice is small. However, if youre charged only a coperto, its up to you whether to leave an additional tip. 12:00 Wander into the Dorsoduro district toward Ca' Rezzonico, exploring and enjoying lunch along the way. Burano Sleepy island known for lacemaking and a lace museum. While tourism continues to keep Venice afloat, fewer overnight guests and dinner-time restaurant customers mean that the tourist trade is no longer as lucrative for the people living in the heart of the city. Today, the Arsenale di Venezia is used for cultural events and exhibitions. While still one of Europe's most romantic and distinctive destinations, globalization and modern life are changing Venice for better or worse. Scuola San Rocco "Tintoretto's Sistine Chapel.". san basilica marco One pharmacy here hosts an electric reader board in its window that ticks down with each Venetian who moves away or dies. Venice has some lovely places for rent, like this charming historic flat with a private balcony. In case medieval European history isnt your forte either, the Venetian Arsenal was a mass production line for ships, both private and for war. Maximize your evening magic, and avoid the midday crowds around St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace. Or, you can spend 2 days in Venice walking from tourist attraction to tourist attraction, and leave with a lingering sense of disappointment. 19:30 Dinner and a gondola ride (or vice versa, as a gondola ride at sunset is best). Skip the impersonal mass tour groups and book one of these more intimate options instead: Italy uses the euro (). If you thought the name comes from onlookers sighing at the bridges beauty (like I did), Im sorry to say its much darker than that! All Rights Reserved. As you might imagine, they also get busy very quickly after opening. Alternatively, you could explore the basilica as soon as it opens (9:30am on weekdays). Most major cities in Italy have direct connections to Venice via high speed trains or regional trains. Its the perfect time for a stroll along the Grand Canal. Learn how your comment data is processed. Most visitors tend to rush from the train station straight to the Piazza San Marco, leaving Cannaregios alleys blissfully uncrowded. Spending an extra day in Venice wouldnt hurt, though. Fortunately, Cannaregiothe neighborhood just outside of the train stationis the perfect place to kick off your 2 days in Venice itinerary. Facing west, theres a lovely view of the Grand Canal as it curves around colorful buildings. But even the most touristy stretches of the city are almost ghostly peaceful early and late. Its also home to some of the prettiest alleys in Venice. The man pointed to the woman and mouthed with silent yet exaggerated motions, "She's my daughter.". At this point, youve probably passed by St. Marks Square numerous times. Its not exactly an intimate experience, but fares only cost about 8 euros, so theyre a good way to take a Venice canal ride on a budget. 18:00 Commence pub crawl for dinner (consider taking Alessandro's Classic Venice Bars Tour). There were plenty of cafes and restaurants nearby, and it was the perfect home base for our two days in Venice itinerary. 11:00 Make your way to the Frari Church via the San Polo neighborhood, ideally following the self-guided "Rialto to Frari Church Walk" outlined in our Venice guidebooks. Luckily, I know a secret spot for amazing views of the Rialto Bridge. Going to an old bookshop might seem like an unusual thing to do in Venice in two days, but trust methis one is worth your time. Even now, the huge bridges and gates remain an impressive sight. Its unmissiable, pyramid-shaped facade is draped with beautiful sculptures, a fitting tribute to the renowned Italian sculptor. 
Continuing with the cone theme, head up the street to Gelato di Natura. 10:00 Catch boat at Fondamente Nove to San Michele (old cemetery), then continue to Murano. I would have loved to take a day trip to Murano and Burano if we had more time! There is plenty to see and do in Venice beyond whats in this itinerary. And no, I dont mean being dragged around the city with a huge crowd of strangers. The city has long been known for its exquisite glass, produced on the isle of Murano since 1292, when the furnaces were moved to prevent fires on the main island (and to protect the secrets of Venetian glassmaking). Getting up for a 7 a.m. film shoot, I was struck by how St. Mark's Square was an entirely different experience without the mobs. For perspective: we arrived in Venice around 10am on day one, and left at the same time on day three. Hotels in Venice fill up quickly, especially during high season. Rialto Bridge Distinctive bridge spanning the Grand Canal, with a market nearby. While we didnt do much the morning of our departure (aside from take a ton of hazy sunrise photos), spending two nights in Venice allowed us to see the city at a relaxed pace. 
The Rialto Bridge is to Venice what the Eiffel Tower is to Paris. A full 48 hours in Venice is just enough time to see the highlights and a few hidden gems. Its much easier to enjoy the ornate facades of the Doges Palace and St. Marks Basilica without dodging tour groups and selfie-takers. I told him in Italian, Yes, I understand. By the 1600s, it was so efficient, it could craft an entire merchant vessel in a single day. Photographers should bring a tripod for beautiful long exposure shots (or use the railing in a pinch). 15:30 Tour St. Mark's Basilica (closes at 17:00 in summer, at 16:00 in winter; best with a self-guided tour, available in our guidebooks and as an audio tour). If youre fortunate enough to have a kitchen in your Venice accommodation, you need to stop by the Mercato di Rialto to pick up your groceries. 
In terms of how to get here from Campo Santo Stefano, you have two options. Venices official language is Italian. Ive wanted to live abroad since I was a kid, and my dream came true in 2018 when my husband and I moved to London. It may be the most expensive option, but its a once-in-a-lifetime experience. This iconic piece of architecture has been the subject of countless paintings, postcards, and even poems. 
These mid-size boats travel around the main canals to quickly transport people around the island. The Doges Palace, a.k.a. venice square st mark workday another ricksteves On my first day of this visit it read 58,759. Before you leave Cannaregio, I highly recommend having a unique lunch combo: fried seafood and gelato. If youre looking for an authentic Venetian meal with amazing service in a beautiful setting, you need to make a reservation here. The tourist thoroughfares, such as the lanes between St. Mark's Square and the Rialto Bridge, were as crowded as ever, if not moreso, but in the evening, all that bustle was completely gone. There are three ways to get from Venice airport to Venice city center: water taxi, standard taxi, and bus. The closest thing I can compare it to is a hedge maze, but with beautiful surprises around every corner. I highly recommend the shrimp and squid combo. Youll be taken via coach from the airport and dropped off near Venice train station, where all car traffic must end. The car-free streets suddenly make walkers feel big, important, and liberated. 14:00 Tour the Correr Museum (ticket purchased here includes Doge's Palace). The best time to visit is near sunset, when everything is bathed in a warm glow. However, these are not included in my 2 day Venice itinerary. This bookshop is home to several laid back felines, and the store doubles down on the cat theme with postcards, artwork, and books. (Visit Scuola San Rocco only if you're an art lover.). 
Youll be taken from the airport pier directly to your hotel (or a nearby canal if its not central), all with amazing views of Venice as you approach the city. Even if you dont plan to cook, the market itself is a charming, authentic side of Venice that tourists rarely see. Also, you cannot rely on Google Maps to get around Venice. However, the area will be incredibly crowded at midday, so its best to simply pass through on your way to the next item on this 2 day Venice itinerary. Card payments are widely accepted in Venice, though its always a good idea to carry cash, especially for small purchases like gelato and for tipping. But believe meyou need to come back in the early morning, before it fills up with day trippers and tourists. 
And speaking of time, remember to look up at the astrological clock tower before you head to the next destination. And sometimes, thesuggested walking route will tell you to cross canals where there are no bridges. Another highlight within the Basilica is the Tomb of Antonio Canova. 
If you want the best of both worldsto see the famous sites AND the authentic side of the citythis Venice itinerary is for you. Be prepared to jockey for a good position on thePonte della Paglia, which offers the best view of the Bridge of Sighs. Dance across a floodlit square. Aside from the Rialto Bridge, the Bridge of Sighs is probably the most famous bridge in Venice. Personally, I think the best time to visit Venice is mid-late October. Unlike the other famous bridges of Venice, thePonte DellAccademia is better known for its view rather than its architecture. Everyone is too busy reading their phones or looking into their cameras. itinerary venice Built on a hundred islands with wealth from trade with the East, its exotic-looking palaces are laced together by sun-speckled canals. Embrace the explorer spirit and youll have a great time! Most people miss this free thing to do in Venice, which is surprising given its right next to the Rialto Bridge. This campo isnt as sprawling as some of the better-known ones, but it has a distinctly local vibe. 15:30 Tour St. Mark's Basilica (closes at 17:00 in summer, at 16:00 in winter; best with our guidebooks' self-guided tour, or with the audio-tour version). Key considerations: Ninety percent of tourists congregate in a very narrow zone in the center. Venice and gondola rides go together like peanut butter and jelly. But does it actually live up to the hype? Book your stay at Hotel Locanda Canal today! Take one of the many guided theme tours available (we recommend several in our guidebooks). If you want to get a dose of history along with speedy entry, you can book a combined fast-track tour of the Doges Palace and St. Marks Basilica(this one also comes with access to the Bridge of Sighs!). I highly recommend the sardines in saor and the tiramisu. lagoon sunset 
In the warmer months, youll find plenty of people enjoying a cocktail or meal al fresco. The island's factories still produce ornate vases, beaded necklaces, and other goods. And he smiled and said, Yes, good, before walking into a nearby cafe. For COVID-19 Travel and RS Tours information, Between the patterned tile floor and light-filled ceilings, youll be close to swooning over the visual delights. enlarge If youre charged a servizio, you arent obliged to leave a tip. You can also take a standard private taxi from the airport to the train station area. While this pretty covered passage looks lovely, it had a far less romantic purpose: to connect theDoges Palace interrogation room to the Venetian prison. Now, I share authentic advice on how to maximize your vacation days, travel off the beaten path, and move abroad. Stroll across the Accademia Bridge (tour the Accademia only if you're an art lover and really energetic) and back to St. Mark's Square. Youve probably caught glimpses of the gorgeous Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute from across the Grand Canal. High speed train tickets come with reserved seats and space to store luggage, while regional trains do not. Bridge of Sighs Famous enclosed bridge, part of Doge's Palace, near St. Mark's Square. Scuola Dalmata di San Giorgio Exquisite Renaissance meeting house. When my husband reviewed my tentative 2 days in Venice itinerary, he was shocked that I hadnt included the Venetian Arsenal. Always read the menu and your bill carefully to see if servizio is included! Thanks to its unique rear staircase made of books, Libreria Acqua Alta is one of the top Instagram spots in Venice. But romance isn't what it used to be either. Hotel Locanda Canalsits on a quiet street within a five minute walk of Piazza San Marco. Litter grew out the tops of garbage cans like bums with bushy heads of hair. 2022 The Portable Wife. Our spacious room overlooked the canal below, and was elegantly decorated with antique wood furniture and a huge, comfy bed. Gene Openshaw is the co-author of the Rick Steves Venice guidebook. I had the same fear when crafting my 2 days in Venice itinerary. They have multiple locations throughout Venice, so youll have other chances to try them if youre too full! Plus, when the vendors close up and hose down the area, it forms tons of puddles that make for fun reflection shots like the one above. More multilingual menus featured Cyrillic, thanks to a huge increase in visitors from Russia. But first, well make a few stops along the way. The nearby alleys also make for a nice escape from the crowds. However, its about the same cost as the shared water taxi and much less exciting! For COVID-19 Travel and RS Tours information, the Palazzo Ducale, was constructed in the 14th century. 2022 Rick Steves' Europe, Inc. | 
As I wandered Venice's meandering streets and canalside walkways, it became obvious just how much the city is changing. Despite all the changes, Venice still awes me with its ethereal beauty and lovely views which can hit you from any direction (literally always look both ways after crossing over a Venetian bridge). I also suggest popping into the Piazza San Marco after sunset. Side-trip to Padua (3050 minutes away by train). The main basilica is free to enter, but the St. Marks Museum, treasury, and Pala dOro each have separate admission fees ranging from 2-5 euros. Remember that Venice itself is its greatest sight. Note that there are a few smaller islands, like Giudecca and Burano, that are only reachable by ferry. To help you plan your sightseeing, we've listed our ideal itineraries for Venice, whether you're going for one day, two days, three days, or more. Still, I love this place, with its smoke-stained mirrors, white-tuxedoed waiters, and finicky piano and string quartet, which somehow gets called an "orchestra." However, crossing the bridge is only half the fun. Without a doubt, it was my favorite stop during our two days in Venice itinerary. There may also be a servizio, or service charge, which is calculated as a percent of the final bill. On a recent trip to film two television shows and research my guidebook, the city felt different. Though tough for local businesses, this can be a good thing for travelers willing to hunker down in Venice for a few days. If youre anything like me, youll be itching to explore Venice the moment you arrive. Highlights include a towering Titian painting over the altar and an elaborately carved wooden Choir. Pop into a glass shop for a glass-blowing demo. ricksteves This covered market specializes in fresh seafood, with a few stalls dedicated to produce. venice 
Disturbing history aside, the Ponte dei Sospiriis truly stunning, especially when gondolas pass beneath its white arch. From atop the bridge, youll have two spectacular views of the Grand Canal and surrounding city. Admission to the Basilica is 3 euros and well worth it. I've been traveling to Venice for more than 30 years. It seems there aren't even lovers on gondolas anymore. casinos venice phone tourists booths locals alike nearly cell everyone days which change phonebooth ricksteves And first-time visitors are often stirred deeply, awaking from their ordinary lives to a fantasy world unlike anything they've ever experienced before. Imagine living in a small, expensive apartment that occasionally floods or pushing a stroller over arched bridges while carrying groceries. The Portable Wife. Youll come across dozens of campitown squaresin Venice. Church of San Polo Ninth-century church with works by Tintoretto, Veronese, and Tiepolo. Frari Church Franciscan church featuring Renaissance masters. There are also shared gondola rides, which are a bit cheaper than private ones. As you make your way southwest across the city, take some time to wander around the pretty alleys, bridges, and squares near Campo San Cassiano. Desperate to capture for our TV show someone kissing on a gondola, I walked briskly along a canal to get ahead of what I thought was a potentially romantic couple. Romantics revel in its atmosphere of elegant decay, seeing the peeling plaster and seaweed-covered stairs as a metaphor for beauty in decline. Booking ahead saves you money and ensures you wont be stuck in a queue, which is common during high season. Around the corner from the bridges southeast side, youll findT Fondaco dei Tedeschi, an elegant shopping center with an amazing rooftop terrace. When you cross a bridge, look both ways you may be hit with a lovely view. Either take a 15 minute walk, crossing the Ponte dellAccademia and heading east. The Rialto started out as a humble pontoon bridge in the 1100s and underwent several reconstructions to become what you see today. This private gondola ride starts at Campo Santo Stefano and fits perfectly with this Venice itinerary. venice locanda silva Punta della Dogana Museum of contemporary art. These open spaces are a nice contrast to the citys narrow alleys, and theyre home to bustling shops, cafes, and restaurants serving locals and visitors alike. San Michele Cemetery island on the lagoon. 16:00 Tour the Accademia museum (only if you're an art lover), then stroll across the Accademia Bridge and back to St. Mark's Square. Looking east, youll see the postcard view of Venice thats pictured above. If you arrive in Venice late in the day, try taking our self-guided Grand Canal cruise and St. Mark's Square tour (both are available as free audio tours). I dont always include restaurant recommendations in my itineraries. We sampled a lot of gelato in Venice, and this shop was definitely the best for creamy texture and rich flavor. Its an essential place to visit in Venice, even if it is over-touristed. Or, you could take the #1 vaporetto line from Giglio to Salute, the pier directly outside the basilica. People have been waxing poetic about Italys floating city for centuries. The sighs came from the prisoners taking one last look out at their beautiful city as they were escorted to a damp cell. You can walk across it, from head to tail, in about an hour. 10:00 Make your way to the Frari Church via the San Polo neighborhood, ideally following our guidebook's self-guided "Rialto to Frari Church Walk.". Plus, I believe Italy is a country best enjoyed at a relaxed pace. Stazione di Venezia Santa Luciasits on the citys northern edge, with multiple ferry and vaporetto terminals out front. see our FAQ. 13:00 Wander into the Dorsoduro district toward the Accademia museum, exploring and enjoying lunch along the way. Church of San Zaccaria Final resting place of St. Zechariah, plus a Bellini altarpiece and an eerie crypt. Peggy Guggenheim Collection Popular display of 20th-century art. 
Correr Museum Venetian history and art. With that in mind, here are our recommended priorities: Night Before: Walk or boat to the train station and then, aboard an empty vaporetto #1, take the self-guided "Grand Canal Cruise" to St. Mark's Square (as outlined in our guidebooks, or follow along with the free audio tour). The most important thing to pack for 2 days in Venice, Where to find free, clean drinking water in Venice, Why you should pay more for your Venice hotel, How to avoid the high price of a gondola ride, grab a map of all the public water fountains, Rick Steves Italy audio walking tour app, Venice History, Legend, Street Food & Wine By Cicchetti Tour, budget-friendly restaurant recommendations by The Guardian, 2.5-Hour Street Food Tour with a Local Guide, Wine and Food Tour Near Venices Jewish Quarter. A beautiful church. Venice's resident population continues to drop, thanks in part to the challenges of raising a family here. Glide in a gondola through quiet canals while music echoes across the water. If apartments are more your style, youre in luck. What I love most about the Frari is the contrast between its simple exterior and grand interior. Marble floors, gilded walls, dazzling frescoes each place is opulent in its own way, and deserves to be savored. Engineers love Venice a completely man-made environment rising from the sea, with no visible means of support. (28:59), Rome Florence Venice Trip - what tickets need to repurchase. The fastest and most unique option is the shared water taxi. 11:00 Tour Murano, and (on weekdays) see glassworks. And Ill tell you exactly how to get there! When I commented on this to some locals, they explained that many tourists now blitz in for the day from cruise ships and cheap mainland hotels. Their outdoor terrace is covered in vines and illuminated at night, and the interior is packed with old world charm. The illuminated lamps and outdoor live music are a must see. marco san night piazza see our FAQ. If youre having trouble locating the alley, its near Fortuny Palace. Then, resume this itinerary from the Bridge of Sighs. We had the dock to ourselves for a long while, until we left so that a couple could use it for engagement photos. And while I do think exploring Venice on foot is best, taking a canal ride is a must have Venice experience. Its free to enter the main basilica, and 4 euros to visit the Sacristy where Titians artwork is displayed. Despite how it looks on the map, its very doable to walk from the train station to the city center with a small amount of luggage. Napoleons troops brought an end to the segregation at the very end of the 18th century, but the neighborhood remains an important place for Venetian Jews. Murano Island famous for glass factories and glassmaking museum. It's not just cruise ships that are changing Venice globalization is, too. Venice has what's considered one of the highest concentrations of art anywhere in the world. 
11:00 Tour the Frari Church (also covered by a free audio tour). However, this Venice itinerary assumes youll walk from the station. If you wait until the last minute to book a place, youll either end up paying a fortune or staying in a less-than-desirable hotel. As you meander to your hearts content, be sure to stop by theCampo del Ghetto Nuovo, where youll find several old synagogues, a WWII memorial, and the Jewish Museum of Venice. florence siena steves venice rick rome including maps italy ricksteves Pretend it's Carnevale time, don a mask or just a fresh shirt and become someone else for a night. Campo Santo Stefano is one of the largest, with multiple churches and brightly painted facades. Venice is small. However, if youre charged only a coperto, its up to you whether to leave an additional tip. 12:00 Wander into the Dorsoduro district toward Ca' Rezzonico, exploring and enjoying lunch along the way. Burano Sleepy island known for lacemaking and a lace museum. While tourism continues to keep Venice afloat, fewer overnight guests and dinner-time restaurant customers mean that the tourist trade is no longer as lucrative for the people living in the heart of the city. Today, the Arsenale di Venezia is used for cultural events and exhibitions. While still one of Europe's most romantic and distinctive destinations, globalization and modern life are changing Venice for better or worse. Scuola San Rocco "Tintoretto's Sistine Chapel.". san basilica marco One pharmacy here hosts an electric reader board in its window that ticks down with each Venetian who moves away or dies. Venice has some lovely places for rent, like this charming historic flat with a private balcony. In case medieval European history isnt your forte either, the Venetian Arsenal was a mass production line for ships, both private and for war. Maximize your evening magic, and avoid the midday crowds around St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace. Or, you can spend 2 days in Venice walking from tourist attraction to tourist attraction, and leave with a lingering sense of disappointment. 19:30 Dinner and a gondola ride (or vice versa, as a gondola ride at sunset is best). Skip the impersonal mass tour groups and book one of these more intimate options instead: Italy uses the euro (). If you thought the name comes from onlookers sighing at the bridges beauty (like I did), Im sorry to say its much darker than that! All Rights Reserved. As you might imagine, they also get busy very quickly after opening. Alternatively, you could explore the basilica as soon as it opens (9:30am on weekdays). Most major cities in Italy have direct connections to Venice via high speed trains or regional trains. Its the perfect time for a stroll along the Grand Canal. Learn how your comment data is processed. Most visitors tend to rush from the train station straight to the Piazza San Marco, leaving Cannaregios alleys blissfully uncrowded. Spending an extra day in Venice wouldnt hurt, though. Fortunately, Cannaregiothe neighborhood just outside of the train stationis the perfect place to kick off your 2 days in Venice itinerary. Facing west, theres a lovely view of the Grand Canal as it curves around colorful buildings. But even the most touristy stretches of the city are almost ghostly peaceful early and late. Its also home to some of the prettiest alleys in Venice. The man pointed to the woman and mouthed with silent yet exaggerated motions, "She's my daughter.". At this point, youve probably passed by St. Marks Square numerous times. Its not exactly an intimate experience, but fares only cost about 8 euros, so theyre a good way to take a Venice canal ride on a budget. 18:00 Commence pub crawl for dinner (consider taking Alessandro's Classic Venice Bars Tour). There were plenty of cafes and restaurants nearby, and it was the perfect home base for our two days in Venice itinerary. 11:00 Make your way to the Frari Church via the San Polo neighborhood, ideally following the self-guided "Rialto to Frari Church Walk" outlined in our Venice guidebooks. Luckily, I know a secret spot for amazing views of the Rialto Bridge. Going to an old bookshop might seem like an unusual thing to do in Venice in two days, but trust methis one is worth your time. Even now, the huge bridges and gates remain an impressive sight. Its unmissiable, pyramid-shaped facade is draped with beautiful sculptures, a fitting tribute to the renowned Italian sculptor. 
Continuing with the cone theme, head up the street to Gelato di Natura. 10:00 Catch boat at Fondamente Nove to San Michele (old cemetery), then continue to Murano. I would have loved to take a day trip to Murano and Burano if we had more time! There is plenty to see and do in Venice beyond whats in this itinerary. And no, I dont mean being dragged around the city with a huge crowd of strangers. The city has long been known for its exquisite glass, produced on the isle of Murano since 1292, when the furnaces were moved to prevent fires on the main island (and to protect the secrets of Venetian glassmaking). Getting up for a 7 a.m. film shoot, I was struck by how St. Mark's Square was an entirely different experience without the mobs. For perspective: we arrived in Venice around 10am on day one, and left at the same time on day three. Hotels in Venice fill up quickly, especially during high season. Rialto Bridge Distinctive bridge spanning the Grand Canal, with a market nearby. While we didnt do much the morning of our departure (aside from take a ton of hazy sunrise photos), spending two nights in Venice allowed us to see the city at a relaxed pace. The Rialto Bridge is to Venice what the Eiffel Tower is to Paris. A full 48 hours in Venice is just enough time to see the highlights and a few hidden gems. Its much easier to enjoy the ornate facades of the Doges Palace and St. Marks Basilica without dodging tour groups and selfie-takers. I told him in Italian, Yes, I understand. By the 1600s, it was so efficient, it could craft an entire merchant vessel in a single day. Photographers should bring a tripod for beautiful long exposure shots (or use the railing in a pinch). 15:30 Tour St. Mark's Basilica (closes at 17:00 in summer, at 16:00 in winter; best with a self-guided tour, available in our guidebooks and as an audio tour). If youre fortunate enough to have a kitchen in your Venice accommodation, you need to stop by the Mercato di Rialto to pick up your groceries. In terms of how to get here from Campo Santo Stefano, you have two options. Venices official language is Italian. Ive wanted to live abroad since I was a kid, and my dream came true in 2018 when my husband and I moved to London. It may be the most expensive option, but its a once-in-a-lifetime experience. This iconic piece of architecture has been the subject of countless paintings, postcards, and even poems. These mid-size boats travel around the main canals to quickly transport people around the island. The Doges Palace, a.k.a. venice square st mark workday another ricksteves On my first day of this visit it read 58,759. Before you leave Cannaregio, I highly recommend having a unique lunch combo: fried seafood and gelato. If youre looking for an authentic Venetian meal with amazing service in a beautiful setting, you need to make a reservation here. The tourist thoroughfares, such as the lanes between St. Mark's Square and the Rialto Bridge, were as crowded as ever, if not moreso, but in the evening, all that bustle was completely gone. There are three ways to get from Venice airport to Venice city center: water taxi, standard taxi, and bus. The closest thing I can compare it to is a hedge maze, but with beautiful surprises around every corner. I highly recommend the shrimp and squid combo. Youll be taken via coach from the airport and dropped off near Venice train station, where all car traffic must end. The car-free streets suddenly make walkers feel big, important, and liberated. 14:00 Tour the Correr Museum (ticket purchased here includes Doge's Palace). The best time to visit is near sunset, when everything is bathed in a warm glow. However, these are not included in my 2 day Venice itinerary. This bookshop is home to several laid back felines, and the store doubles down on the cat theme with postcards, artwork, and books. (Visit Scuola San Rocco only if you're an art lover.). 
Youll be taken from the airport pier directly to your hotel (or a nearby canal if its not central), all with amazing views of Venice as you approach the city. Even if you dont plan to cook, the market itself is a charming, authentic side of Venice that tourists rarely see. Also, you cannot rely on Google Maps to get around Venice. However, the area will be incredibly crowded at midday, so its best to simply pass through on your way to the next item on this 2 day Venice itinerary. Card payments are widely accepted in Venice, though its always a good idea to carry cash, especially for small purchases like gelato and for tipping. But believe meyou need to come back in the early morning, before it fills up with day trippers and tourists. And speaking of time, remember to look up at the astrological clock tower before you head to the next destination. And sometimes, thesuggested walking route will tell you to cross canals where there are no bridges. Another highlight within the Basilica is the Tomb of Antonio Canova.