Should I spend 1 or 2 weeks in Venice?

Should you spend 1 or 2 weeks in Venice?

Many travelers spend two to seven days in Venice during their visit. After all, the magical 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 weeks 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.


Is one week enough time in Venice?

One week is more than enough time to see everything that Venice has to offer. Many visitors prefer to spend two to seven days here, so you'll be able to take in all of the famous sights and museums, the historic old town, the quaint atmosphere, and the gorgeous scenery at your own pace. We have a few suggestions of things to do while you're visiting, and then you can take a day trip if you're looking to explore further around the area.

How to spend a week 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:

  • Private boat tour to Murano, Burano, Torcello ($197)
  • Venice Sightseeing Walking Tour for Kids and Families ($239)
  • Venice Sunset Cruise by Typical Venetian Boat ($98)

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.

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 ($174)
  • 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)
  • A Venetian Evening - Wine Tasting & Tapas tour with a Local guide ($108)

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.

The charming atmosphere and history of the old town area is worth exploring, so spend the day learning about the history and culture of the area. The city's historic area is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, colorful buildings, are world-renowned architecture, make this among the most recognized historic settings in the world.


A few tour suggestions include:

  • Venice Sightseeing Walking Tour for Kids and Families ($239)
  • Venice Small Group Walking Tour with Saint Mark's | with Private Option ($163)
  • Venice Private Food Walking Tour With Locals: 6 or 10 Tastings ($133)

Venice offers a charming atmosphere that's hard to find anywhere else. Spend part of the day exploring the scenery. The colorful buildings and quaint canals give this city a character unlike any other.


A few tour suggestions include:

  • Venice Sightseeing Walking Tour for Kids and Families ($239)
  • Venice Small Group Walking Tour with Saint Mark's | with Private Option ($163)
  • Venice Private Food Walking Tour With Locals: 6 or 10 Tastings ($133)

Shopping in Venice is very popular, and it's easy to see why. Spend time exploring the many shops and boutiques to find the perfect gift, souvenir, or outfit. There are many unique items that people purchase in town. Some of the most popular include Murano glass, Burano lace, Venetian masks, and local fabrics.


A few tour suggestions include:

  • McArthurGlen OUTLET SHOPPING DAY ($119)

After you've explored most of Venice, take a day trip to one of the many beautiful destinations nearby.


A few tour suggestions include:

  • Dolomite Mountains and Cortina Semi Private Day Trip from Venice ($224)
  • Private Day Trip to Murano, Burano & Torcello islands from Venice with a local ($218)
  • Private Day Trip to Lake Garda (Sirmione with Castle) from Venice with a local ($235)

Because this is a world-class shopping destination, you'll need yet another day to find the best deals. Each area of Venice offers a different vibe and atmosphere, and along with it, different styles of shops.

Is 2 weeks enough time in Venice?

Two weeks is more than enough time to see pretty much everything in Venice. You can move at your own pace and relax in your hotel. You could also use Venice as a base for exploring the nearby destinations. You'll find some great day trips in the region.

Venice, Italy Venice, Italy

How to spend 2 weeks in Venice

With 2 weeks in Venice, you'll have plenty of time to enjoy everything the city has to offer at your own relaxed pace. You'll want to spend plenty of time perusing the musuems, exploring the historic town, and browsing the shops. You can also relax at your hotel, or casually explore this city looking for hidden gems. Also, consider taking some day trips to nearby destinations where you can explore more of the region.


A few trip suggestions:

  • Dolomite Mountains and Cortina Semi Private Day Trip from Venice ($224)
  • Private Day Trip to Murano, Burano & Torcello islands from Venice with a local ($218)
  • Private Day Trip to Lake Garda (Sirmione with Castle) from Venice with a local ($235)
  • Private Day Trip to Verona from Venice with a local ($249)

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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