Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Venice?

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Should you spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Venice?

Many travelers spend two to seven days in Venice during their visit. After all, the romantic city has plenty to explore such as the famous sights and museums, the historic old town, and the quaint atmosphere.

Venice is one of the most popular attractions in Italy, and at times it does feel more like an attraction than a city. But that doesn't mean that it's not truly beautiful and romantic - a not -to-be-missed stop on any Italian itinerary. Part of the experience in Venice is simply getting lost. Tucked away in the hidden corners you'll find what really makes this city one-of-a-kind.

Do you have one or two days to visit Venice? Here's our comprehensive breakdown of how much time you might need for your trip along with some suggestions for things to do.


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Is one day enough time in Venice?

Venice enjoys immense popularity among tourists because of its many sights and attractions. So with one day, you'll probably feel rushed to see the main attractions. You really need more time to appreciate everything that the romantic city has to offer. Many visitors prefer to have two to seven days to fully enjoy the city. If you have one day or less, we still have some great ideas for what to do while you're in town.

How to spend a day in Venice

When visiting Venice, you absolutely can't miss St. Mark's Basilica as it's one of the most famous places in the world. Make sure you allow yourself enough time to fully experience it.

Venice is known to be such a beautiful destination, so just exploring and taking it all in should be one of the top things to do on your list. The city's beautiful canals, architecture, and gondolas make it among the most stunning and unique places to visit in the world.


A few tour suggestions include:

  • The Essence of Venice in a Stress Free Small group Walking Tour with a Top Guide ($24)
  • In the footsteps of Commissario Brunetti by Donna Leon walking tour ($84)
  • Venice Top attractions Walking Tour along the Canals with Local Guide ($16)

Venice is a walkable city and easy to explore on foot. With only a day in the city, you'll have no trouble seeing the local sights. Because it is small, it's easy to walk to all of the major tourist attractions.

Is a weekend (two to three days) enough time in Venice?

Since it's a small city, you'll probably need more than a weekend to take advantage of everything to do in Venice. Two or three days still gives you a good amount of time to explore, though, as you'll have a chance to experience at least some of the major attractions. In addition to the great museums and landmarks and fun charming old town, visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery, shopping, and food by staying for a weekend.

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How to spend 2 days in Venice

With a weekend (two to three days) in Venice, you'll have a bit more time to enjoy everything that the city has to offer.

Venice is known for it's world-class museums and famous landmarks, so make sure you spend at least a day exploring at one or more of the most appealing. The many historic and famous landmarks in town include St. Mark's Basilica, St. Mark's Square, Doge's Palace, and the Rialto Bridge.


A few tour suggestions include:

  • Vivaldi's Four Seasons Concert and Music Museum Visit ($43)
  • Venice Doge's Palace & St. Mark's Semi-Private Tour, Max 6 People ($173)
  • Venice In a Day: Basilica San Marco, Doges Palace & Gondola ride ($152)

You can't miss out on tasting the fantastic cuisine at one of the best restaurants in town, so make sure you find somewhere special for lunch or dinner. For the best dining experience, you should try to avoid the touristy restaurants that serve the typical pizza and pasta. Instead, find a local eatery that specializes in the region's traditional flavors like fish and vegetables.


A few tour suggestions include:

  • Prosecco Wine Tour. Half-day. From Venice ($170)
  • Prosecco - Wine tour & tasting - Full day in the Prosecco region ($120)
  • Private Market Tour and Cooking Class in Central Venice with a Fun Loving Local ($140)

The public transit in Venice is fast and efficient. Over the course of a few days, you should be able to explore the city quite easily and affordably. There is a comprehensive boat and ferry system that includes aporettos, alilagunas, private water taxis, gondolas, and traghettos.

More Info

If you're looking for more information about Venice, we have even more advice to help you plan your journey.

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