There are few places in the world as unique as Venice. So when we started planning our trip, I definitely wanted to add the floating city to our Itinerary. Venice sits on a group of 117 small islands in the Venetian Lagoon, it is connected by bridges and canals instead of roads, and its primary mode of transportation is by boat. Add to this the city’s vibrant contemporary art scene, and it’s easy to see why Venice is a popular destination for tourists worldwide. Note that this guide is intended for 2-nights in Venice with a full day of exploration.
How to Get to Venice
If you are already in Italy, the best way to get to Venice (Venezia) is by train. It is approximately 3.5 hours from Milan (Milano), 2.5hrs from Florence (Firenze), and 4hrs from Rome (Roma). We quickly learned that booking train tickets on Trenitalia was much easier if we learned the Italian names of the cities we were traveling to as well as the main train stations. So, here is a list of the major train stations to help you with your planning:
- Milan (Milano) – Milano Centrale
- Florence (Firenze) – Santa Maria Novella (S.M. Novella)
- Venice (Venezia) – San Lucia (S. Lucia)
- Rome (Roma) – Roma Termini
Pro Tip: Book your tickets at least two days before the departure date to save on train travel costs. If we had known this, we could have saved at least 90 Euros per leg for our family of 3. Additionally, we spent a little more on direct routes to avoid hauling our luggage during connections.
Where to Stay in Venice
There are numerous places to stay in Venice for every budget ranging from the top range at St Regis to low-cost Airbnbs. We stayed at the Hotel Saturnia & International, paid for by Chase Points. The hotel was less than a 5-minute walk to San Marco Square and the San Marco water bus stop. We had a spacious suite at this hotel, and breakfast was included for our family of three.
Pro Tip: Look at the map to see where your intended hotel will be located to get a sense of whether you will need to add a budget for water bus tickets to get around.
Things To Do in Venice in One Day
1. Take a Vaporetto (water bus)
Venice is a city like no other, and one of the best ways to explore it is by taking a Vaporetto. You will be able o view Venice from a different vantage point. These boats are a staple of Venetian life and offer a unique way to see the sights. Gliding through the canals is an unforgettable experience, and it’s the perfect way to get from one place to another. Additionally, Vaporettos are affordable compared to Gondolas, making them an excellent option for budget-minded travelers. So if you’re looking for an authentic Venetian experience, be sure to take a Vaporetto!
2. Twirl in Piazza San Marco
For many people, visiting Venice means taking a leisurely stroll through the city’s iconic Piazza San Marco. However, there’s one activity that’s even more memorable: twirling in the square. As you spin around, you’ll be surrounded by the stunning architecture of St. Mark’s Basilica and the Palazzo Ducale, as well as the hundreds of pigeons that make the square their home. It’s an experience you won’t soon forget, and it’s the perfect way to take in all that Venice has to offer. So go ahead and let your inner child out – after all, when in Rome… or Venice!
3. Be Lost In The Streets of Venice
There’s something magical about getting lost in the streets and alleys of Venice. With its winding canals and hidden courtyards, the city has a labyrinthine quality that feels like something out of a fairytale. And while it can be easy to stick to the well-trodden tourist routes, there’s nothing quite like discovering a hidden gem only the locals know about. Whether it’s a quaint cafe tucked away down a side street or a stunning church hidden behind an unassuming facade, Venice always has something new to explore. So, ditch the map and see where the wind takes you; never know what treasures you might find, and only use GPS when finding your way home.
4. Check Out Free Galleries
The best way to get a feel for the city is by exploring its art scene. And in Venice, there are plenty of great galleries to choose from. The Ateneo Veneto is a must-see with its impressive collection of 18th and 19th-century paintings. For something more contemporary, check out the San Fantin gallery for a unique art installation. Whether you’re an art lover or just looking to while away a few hours, these galleries are worth visiting.
5. Find Your Way To Rialto Bridge
One of the most iconic landmarks in Venice is the Rialto Bridge, the oldest of four bridges to cross Venice’s Grand Canal. Spanning the Grand Canal, this beautiful bridge is a must-see for any visitor to the city. Once you’re on the bridge, take some time to admire the views of the canal below. You can also enjoy shopping at the many stalls and shops lining the bridge. So whether you’re looking for souvenirs or simply want to take in the sights and sounds of Venice, a visit to the Rialto Bridge is an essential part of any trip to this stunning city.
We hope this helps you plan your trip to Venice. If you enjoyed this blog post, I’d love to connect with you on Instagram or TikTok.