From a Local: The Ultimate One Day in Venice Itinerary

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Is one day in Venice, the city of canals and bridges, worth it? The answer is a resounding yes.

Of course, I recommend spending more time there, but if you only have one day in Venice and wonder if you should go, I say go for it.

With so much to see and do when you visit Venice, it can be overwhelming for visitors trying to fit everything into one day. 

To get the most out of your one day in Venice, it’s important to have a well-planned itinerary. 

As somebody who lives close to Venice and travels there several times per year, I am just the guy to help you get the most out of your one day in Venice itinerary. 

In this guide, I’ll help you plan the ultimate one day Venice itinerary that will help you maximize your time and experience all the best sights and sounds without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. 

So grab your map and let’s get started on exploring this beautiful Italian gem!

Before we dive into the one day in Venice itinerary, let me start with some practical tips to help you when your time is limited.

Check Your Bags

When visiting Venice, it’s essential to explore its labyrinthine streets, alleys, and canals without being weighed down by cumbersome baggage. To fully immerse yourself in the Venetian experience and navigate the city with ease, I highly recommend utilizing one of the several convenient baggage check facilities available in key locations.

Baggage check sign at the Marco Polo Airport Venice Italy
Baggage check at the Marco Polo Airport Venice Italy
  • Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE): Upon arrival at the airport, consider leaving your luggage at the airport’s baggage check service. Located in the arrivals area, this facility allows you to securely store your bags, providing you with the freedom to start your Venetian adventure unburdened. (You should also read my article about getting to Venice from Marco Polo here) Operating hours may vary, so be sure to check the airport’s website for the most up-to-date information on pricing and hours. You can find the baggage check by clicking the link to the map here.
  • Inside Santa Lucia Train Station: If you’re arriving in Venice by train, the Santa Lucia Train Station offers a convenient baggage check service within the station itself. Look for the “Deposito Bagagli” signs, which will guide you to the luggage storage area. This secure facility typically operates daily, making it an excellent option for travelers arriving at the station. Be sure to have some cash on hand, as fees for this service are usually calculated per piece of luggage and per day.
Baggage check sign at Santa Lucia Station Venice Italy
Baggage check sign at Santa Lucia Station Venice Italy

By taking advantage of one of these baggage check facilities, you can effortlessly traverse the charming streets and canals of Venice, fully embracing the magic and allure of this captivating city.

10 Practical Tips for When You Have Limited Time in Venice

It can be a bit more of a challenge than other cities when you only have one day in Venice. Getting around, avoiding tourist traps, and still having a relaxing time that makes even one day feel like it is worth it is not easy. When you can only spend one day in Venice, you need to follow a few guidelines to get the most out of your time. 

As somebody who often spends only one day in Venice and sometimes two, take it from me, you will want to keep the following tips in mind.

  1. Start early: Venice is a popular day-trip destination, so it’s important to get an early start to avoid the masses. Try to get to your first destination before 9am.
  2. Eat like a local: Venice has some incredible food, but it can be touristy in certain areas. Look for places that are frequented by locals to get a more authentic experience. Have a food plan before you get there and put it on the schedule instead of stopping at the first place you come to when you’re already hungry.
  3. Wear comfortable shoes: As mentioned earlier, Venice is best explored on foot, so make sure you wear comfortable shoes. The streets and alleyways can be narrow and uneven, so avoid wearing high heels or uncomfortable footwear. Check out my packing list advice here.
  4. Bring a water bottle: It can get hot and humid in Venice, especially in the summer months. Be sure to bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated while you explore.
  5. Bring a map or download an offline map: Venice can be confusing to navigate, and it’s easy to get lost. Bring a physical map or download Google Maps to your phone to help you find your way to the major attractions. Keep in mind that Google Maps gets confused with the narrow streets so always give yourself a few extra minutes extra to account for getting a bit lost. 
  6. Be respectful: Venice is a popular tourist destination, but it’s also a living city with residents. Be respectful of the locals, their culture, and their customs.
  7. Watch out for scams: Although Venice is extremely safe, as with any tourist destination, there may be scams to watch out for. Be cautious of people trying to sell you things on the street or offering to take your photo for a fee.
  8. Purchase passes: If you want to see more of Venice’s islands or are short on time, consider purchasing a vaporetto pass. This will allow you to use the water buses to get around quickly and efficiently. Then, get a Venice Pass that gets you into the major sites while skipping the line. These passes will save you loads of time and even some money.
  9. Check the weather: Venice is prone to flooding, especially during high tide in the winter. Check the weather forecast before you go, and be prepared to adjust your plans if necessary. 
  10. Take a walking tour: Venice is a city best explored on foot. Consider taking a walking day tour to get a sense of the city’s layout and history. Walking tours will also help you get your bearings and figure out where you want to go next.
water fountains are a great place to fill up a water bottle in venice italy

Take a Tour

Here are some tours that will help you save time, dodge crowds, and ensure you don’t miss any of the city’s extraordinary attractions:

Venice Walking Tour: St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace

This comprehensive tour unites the best of Venice’s iconic landmarks, delivering an in-depth exploration of St. Mark’s Square, St. Mark’s Basilica, and the Doge’s Palace. Accompanied by an expert guide, you’ll gain profound insights into the city’s history, architecture, and cultural importance. The added advantage of skip-the-line access to these popular attractions makes this tour a worthwhile investment.

doge's palace and st mark basilica piazza san marco

Venice Food and Wine Tour

Venice boasts a rich culinary tradition, and a guided food and wine tour enables you to relish its authentic flavors while learning about the city’s gastronomic past. Stroll through the bustling Rialto Market, visit local bacari for cicchetti tastings, and sample regional wines at historic wine bars. This tour not only acquaints you with the city’s culinary delights but also provides an insider’s perspective on Venetian culture and lifestyle.

cicchetti at bacaro risorto

Venice Ghost and Legends Walking Tour

For those captivated by Venice’s darker aspects, a ghost and legends tour offers a singular perspective on the city’s enigmatic history. Guided by an engaging storyteller, you’ll navigate hidden alleyways, listen to spine-chilling tales of murder and treachery, and explore lesser-known sites steeped in local folklore. This tour presents an enthralling alternative to traditional sightseeing and unveils a side of Venice that many tourists never witness.

spooky venetian mask

Venice Secret Gardens Tour

For a truly distinctive and enchanting experience, consider joining a Venice Secret Gardens Tour. This guided adventure takes you off the beaten track and into the city’s concealed sanctuaries of lush greenery and serenity. Venice harbors numerous private gardens and courtyards, many of which are secreted away behind ancient palazzos and accessible only to those in the know. This tour is perfect for nature enthusiasts, history aficionados, and anyone seeking to uncover a different side of Venice.

gardens in venice italy

Following these tips will help you spend a relaxing day when you visit Venice. Now, onto the suggested itinerary that will help you see the major highlights that you must see when here. 

The Ultimate One Day in Venice Itinerary

Venice is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in Italy, with its winding canals, stunning architecture, and rich history. If you’re a traveler on a tight schedule or just visiting for one day in Venice, it’s important to plan your itinerary carefully to make the most of your limited time. I suggest staying in one small area within the historic center since this is where the major sights are that you will want to see. This will help you maximize your time.

Here’s my ultimate one day in Venice itinerary that will help you experience all the must-see sights without feeling rushed.

Morning: Arrival at Venice

Taking the vaporetto (water bus) to St. Mark’s Square

piazza san marco

The first thing you need to do after arriving in Venice is take a vaporetto (water bus) to Piazza San Marco. This iconic landmark is located right in the heart of Venice and offers breathtaking views of the canal and the many historical buildings surrounding it.

If you’ve arrived by train then you can get the Vaporetto #1 right in front of the train station. The route will take you through the Grand Canal and takes roughly 40 minutes. 

Alternatively, if you are coming from Venice Marco Polo airport, you can take the Route BBB water bus directly to St. Mark’s Square.

St. Mark’s Square

Piazza San Marco is a must-see destination for when you visit Venice. It is a symbol of the city’s rich cultural heritage and offers a glimpse into the grandeur and beauty of Venice’s past. 

It is considered one of the most beautiful and famous squares in the world and is located in the heart of the city, near the Grand Canal, punctuated with the Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, and the San Marco Campanile.

Breakfast at a Local Cafe

Before exploring St. Mark’s Square, it’s time for breakfast at one of Venice’s famous cafes. Head to Caffè Florian, which is located right on St. Mark’s Square and has been serving customers since 1720. Try some delicious Venetian pastries and coffee while enjoying stunning views over the square. Be warned that it is very, very expensive to get a coffee and pastry here, as anywhere in Piazza San Marco. 

Check out my article on the best coffee shops in Venice to find the best one near St Mark’s!

St. Mark’s Basilica (Basilica di San Marco)

This Byzantine church is an architectural masterpiece featuring golden mosaics depicting biblical scenes made up of thousands of tiny tiles laid by hand. 

You can either take a guided tour or explore it yourself if you prefer more independence.

facade of san marco

Here are a few of the highlights of the Basilica:

  • The Pala d’Oro: A high altar retable made of gold and adorned with numerous precious stones and enamel work. This masterpiece is considered one of the finest examples of Byzantine goldsmith work.
  • Mosaics: St. Mark’s Basilica interior is covered with over 8,000 square meters of intricate gold mosaics, depicting scenes from the Bible and the lives of various saints.
  • The Marble Floor: The ornate marble floor of St. Mark’s Basilica features a mix of geometric and animal designs, as well as scenes from the Old Testament.
  • The Tesoro (Treasury): St. Mark’s Basilica treasury houses a collection of sacred artifacts and relics, including chalices, crosses, and reliquaries.
  • The Quadriga of St. Mark: A group of four bronze horses that once adorned the facade of the basilica, now displayed inside to protect them from the elements. These horses are replicas, while the originals are housed in the St. Mark’s Basilica museum.
  • The Icon of the Madonna Nicopeia: A Byzantine icon of the Virgin Mary holding the infant Jesus, adorned with precious stones and pearls. It is considered one of the most significant icons in St. Mark’s Basilica.
  • Various chapels:  St. Mark’s Basilica houses several chapels, including the Baptistery, the Zen Chapel, and the Chapel of the Holy Sacrament.
  • St. Mark’s Museum: Located on the upper floor, the museum displays the original Quadriga horses, as well as other valuable artifacts and pieces of art from the basilica’s history. 
How to Visit St. Mark’s Basilica

As one of Venice’s most popular attractions, the cathedral of St. Mark’s Basilica draws large crowds, and queues to enter can be lengthy. However, you can now pre-book your tickets online to bypass the lines and enjoy a smoother visit.

line to get into basilica san marco
Long line to get into Basilica San Marco

When visiting St. Mark’s Basilica it is free to enter the main building. However, additional charges apply for access to the Pala d’Oro, Loggia dei Cavalli, and the terrace overlooking St. Mark’s Square. 

Hours: St. Mark’s Basilica is open for visitors on weekdays and Saturdays from 9:30 am to 5 pm, with the last entry allowed at 4:45 pm. On Sundays and public holidays, the basilica’s hours vary by season. In winter and spring, it is open from 2 pm to 4:30 pm, while in summer and autumn, the hours are from 2 pm to 5 pm. Please note that the final admission is 15 minutes prior to the scheduled closing time.

Doge’s Palace(Palazzo Ducale) 

The Doge’s Palace, or Palazzo Ducale in Italian, is an impressive Gothic-style palace that served as the center of power and government during the Venetian Republic for centuries. 

Located next to St Mark’s Basilica in Piazza San Marco, it was also the residence of the Doge, -the elected ruler of Venice- until 1797.

Visitors can explore numerous halls, chambers, and courtyards inside the Doge’s Palace. The most notable areas include:

  • Scala dei Giganti (Giants’ Staircase): This grand staircase was built in 1485 by Antonio Rizzo to impress foreign ambassadors visiting Venice. It’s named after the two colossal statues of Mars and Neptune standing at its base.
  • Sala del Collegio (Great Council Hall): The largest hall inside the Doge’s Palace was used for formal meetings between up to 2000 members when necessary; visitors will be awed with its high ceilings painted by Veronese himself with scenes depicting famous battles in Venetian history.
  • Sala dello Scrutinio: A chamber located near Sala del Collegio where votes were cast anonymously using a ballot box called “Bussola”. This room features exquisite artwork dating back centuries ago including golden stucco sculptures representing virtues like prudence or justice created by Francesco Segala among others.
  • Bridge of Sighs: The beautiful baroque Bridge of Sighs connects the courtroom to prison across Rio di Palazzo canal which inspired Lord Byron’s poem from which it got its name! Visitors will have a chance to snap some pictures while discovering more about life under medieval law in Venice.

Overall, touring through Doge’s Palace is definitely worth your time if you are interested not only in exploring one of Italy’s finest examples of Gothic architecture but also in learning more about Venice itself.

I highly recommend buying a pass to make sure you can skip the lines and maximize your time there. A Venice City Pass get you access to the Doge’s Palace, access to St. Mark’s Basilica and museums, a free Venice audio guide, plus a gondola ride and access to the civic museums of Venice. It saves you money as well as time.  

Make sure to read my detailed guide on the popular Venice Passes so you can find the perfect fit!

Campanile di San Marco

The Bell Tower, also known as the San Marco Campanile, is an iconic landmark located in St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco) in Venice, Italy. Standing at approximately 98.6 meters (323 feet) tall, the tower is a prominent fixture in the Venetian skyline and offers visitors breathtaking views of the city and its surrounding lagoon.

Visitors can take an elevator up to the belfry’s viewing platform, where they can enjoy panoramic views of the city, the lagoon, and, on a clear day, even the distant Dolomite Mountains. 

Stroll Along the Riva degli Schiavoni

Strolling along the Riva degli Schiavoni is a delightful way to experience Venice’s vibrant waterfront atmosphere while taking in spectacular views of the city and its picturesque lagoon. This famous promenade, located in the Castello district, stretches from the iconic St. Mark’s Square to the Arsenale area, making it a popular destination for both tourists and locals alike.

As you meander along the Riva degli Schiavoni, you’ll be captivated by the impressive Venetian architecture lining the waterfront, including the historic Doge’s Palace and the elegant Bridge of Sighs. The promenade is dotted with numerous cafes, bars, and restaurants, where you can stop to enjoy a refreshing drink, indulge in some traditional Venetian cuisine, or simply savor a scoop of delicious Italian gelato.

Afternoon

Traditional Venetian Lunch

Traditional Venetian cuisine is known for its simple yet flavorful dishes that reflect the city’s location and history. If you go to any of the restaurants on this list below you are sure to get a traditional Venetian meal worth remembering for how delicious it is and not one that is remembered because of how you got ripped off. 

various cicchetti for lunch

The cuisine in Venice is much different than in other parts of Italy, though no less delicious. To get an idea of what you should eat in Venice, click that link for a detailed article.

Rialto Neighborhood

After lunch, head away from Piazza San Marco and over to the Rialto Bridge (Ponte di Rialto). This architectural marvel spans the Grand Canal and provides stunning views of both sides of Venice. The Rialto bridge is also home to a bustling market where vendors sell everything from handcrafted souvenirs to fine jewelry.

Once you cross the bridge, make sure you stop by the Rialto Market (Mercato di Rialto). Here you’ll find fresh seafood caught right off the coast as well as locally grown fruits and vegetables. You might even catch a glimpse of chefs from nearby restaurants picking up ingredients for their evening menus.

As you leave the Rialto Bridge area, spend some time exploring surrounding streets and hidden alleyways, which often lead to picturesque canals filled with gondolas going back-and-forth across waterways and reflecting Venetian architecture along each side.

And while there may be endless things worth seeing throughout Venice’s labyrinthine passageways – don’t forget about taking advantage of any opportunity presented for people-watching during your explorations. 

Grab an espresso, a glass of wine, or the ubiquitous Spritz Aperol. Sit down beside canal-side cafe tables or upon steps leading into the tranquil waters below- sipping on local beverages and watching boats gently float by under the Italian sun. This will leave lasting impressions, making days spent here truly unforgettable.

Take a gondola ride

Taking a gondola ride near the Rialto Bridge area is a quintessential Venetian experience that allows you to explore the city’s charming canals and admire its stunning architecture from a unique perspective. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you enjoy a gondola ride in this iconic location:

gondola station behind st mark'c square
  • Find a gondola stand: Gondola stations, known as “stazi”, are located along the Grand Canal and throughout Venice. In the Rialto Bridge area, you’ll find several gondola stands nearby. Look for the traditional black gondolas and gondoliers wearing striped shirts, black pants, and straw hats with a ribbon.
  • Check the rates: Official gondola rides have standard rates set by the city. A 30-minute ride during the day costs €80, with an extra cost for each subsequent 20-minute increment. Evening rides (starting from 7 pm) have a higher base rate of €100. You canàt haggle on these prices as they’re fixed with the city.
  • Negotiate the route: Before boarding the gondola, discuss your preferred route with the gondolier. They can guide you through the most picturesque canals and point out significant landmarks along the way. You can also request a specific route if you have particular sights in mind.
  • Board the gondola: Carefully step onto the gondola and take a seat on the comfortable, cushioned bench. Gondolas can accommodate up to six passengers, making them ideal for couples, families, or small groups of friends. Offset the cost by sharing the ride with some other tourists if you donàt need it to be a romantic gondola ride.
  • Enjoy the ride: Sit back, relax, and take in the beautiful scenery as your gondolier expertly navigates the narrow canals and under the historic bridges. Don’t forget to snap some photos and fully immerse yourself in this romantic Venetian experience. Ask the gondolier some questions as they are happy to show off their knowledge of the floating city.
  • Payment: Once your gondola ride is over, be prepared to pay your gondolier in cash. While tipping is not mandatory, it’s appreciated if you’ve had an exceptional experience.

Read the detailed guide on how to get the most out of your gondola ride here!

Visit the Peggy Guggenheim Collection

After disembarking from your gondola adventure gliding among picturesque settings seen during peaceful canal rides earlier, head over to the Museum District where the Peggy Guggenheim Collection art museum awaits exploration, showcasing modern art works created by many renowned artists like Picasso and Pollock, plus countless others deserving recognition too!

The museum was once owned by American heiress Peggy Guggenheim, who had a keen eye for artistic talent, as evident from her collection, which includes sculpture masterpieces and paintings that span a range of styles, including Surrealism, Cubism, Abstract Expressionism, and more.

Located in the Palazzo Venier dei Leoni along the Grand Canal, visitors will find themselves enjoying art while surrounded by equally impressive architectural features dating back centuries. There are even outdoor terraces boasting stunning views over Venice, making it easy to lose track of time due to unbridled fascination with everything surrounding you inside and out.

Santa Maria della Salute

As your one day in Venice slowly comes to a close, it’s time to experience one of Venice’s most iconic landmarks: Santa Maria della Salute. A visit to Santa Maria della Salute is an absolute must when exploring Venice, as it offers a unique blend of architectural beauty, historical significance, and artistic treasures. 

Read the full article on the most beautiful churches in Venice!

This striking Baroque church was constructed in the 17th century as a votive offering for the city’s deliverance from a devastating plague, making it an essential part of Venice’s history.

It’s on the Grand Canal, but keep in mind that it can only be reached by vaporetto.

Get a Gelato

best gelato in venice featured image

As dusk sets in and you’ve almost finished your one day in Venice itinerary, it would be criminal not to indulge in Italy’s famous sweet treat: gelato. There are plenty of options available across the city, but for an authentic experience, consider visiting one of Venice’s many exceptional artisanal gelaterias. 

Here, you’ll find unique flavors like pistachio or lavender alongside more traditional favorites like chocolate and vanilla.

Savor your chosen flavor as you watch the sun dip below the horizon before boarding a water taxi back to your hotel at the end of your one day in Venice, feeling content and fulfilled after experiencing some of Venice’s finest offerings.

I have a review of some of my favorite gelato shops so make sure to click the link to find your favorite. Gelato di Natura is my favorite in the St Mark’s Square area.

Gelato di Natura best gelato near San Marco or St Mark's square

Visit Harry’s Bar

A visit to Harry’s Bar, an iconic and historic establishment in Venice, promises an unforgettable experience steeped in tradition, elegance, and sophistication. Nestled near St. Mark’s Square, this legendary watering hole has been a favorite haunt for celebrities, artists, and literary figures since its opening in 1931 by Giuseppe Cipriani. This was the favorite haunt for the likes of Ernest Hemingway, Charlie Chaplin and various royalty.

Do not miss the chance to try their famous carpaccio, which was first created here by Giuseppe Cipriani himself. Harry’s Bar is also renowned for inventing the famous Bellini cocktail, a refreshing blend of Prosecco and white peach purée. It’s highly recommended that you indulge in this signature drink, savoring each sip as you soak in the bar’s storied history.

Eat Some Cicchetti

Cicchetti are small plates or snacks that are a beloved part of the traditional Venetian food culture. Similar to tapas or meze, cicchetti are served in small portions, making them perfect for sharing or as a quick snack.

traditional cicchetti in venice italy

Cicchetti can be found in bars, osterias, and other casual eateries throughout Venice and are served from the morning until dinner time. They are typically served as an accompaniment to a glass of wine or spritz, which is a popular Venetian aperitif made with prosecco and Aperol or Campari.

Cicchetti can include a wide range of ingredients, but many are seafood-based, such as small fried fish, anchovies, marinated octopus, or crab meat crostini. Other common cicchetti ingredients include prosciutto, salami, cheeses, olives, and vegetables like marinated artichokes or eggplant.

One of the joys of cicchetti is trying different combinations and flavors, and Venetians often make a meal out of them. Cicchetti are usually displayed on the counter, so customers can choose which ones they want. Some places offer cicchetti platters with a selection of different options. It’s a great way to eat on a budget since they usually cost less than 2 euro for each piece.

How to Get Around Venice

Venice, the city of canals, is a unique and enchanting destination that offers a one-of-a-kind travel experience. Getting around Venice can be an adventure in itself, with its winding streets, narrow alleys, and picturesque waterways. This short guide will help you find your way through the city and make the most of your visit.

  • Vaporettos (Water Buses): Vaporettos are the primary means of public transportation in Venice, with routes connecting the city’s main islands and landmarks. These water buses operate on regular schedules and offer an enjoyable way to travel through the city while taking in the stunning views. Key vaporetto lines include Line 1, which runs along the Grand Canal and Line 2, which connects major attractions such as St. Mark’s Square and the Rialto Bridge. Be sure to check the route maps and timetables to plan your journey.
  • Traghetti (Gondola Ferries): For a more traditional Venetian experience, consider using traghetti – gondola ferries that shuttle passengers across the Grand Canal at select points. These crossings are operated by experienced gondoliers and offer a convenient, affordable, and authentic way to traverse the canal. Keep in mind that traghetti are primarily intended for short trips and are not part of the public transportation system covered by the Venezia Unica City Pass.
  • Walking: Venice is a pedestrian-friendly city, and walking is often the best way to explore its hidden corners, picturesque squares, and historic bridges. Be prepared for narrow streets, numerous steps, and occasional dead ends. Carrying a detailed map or using a navigation app on your smartphone can be invaluable in helping you navigate the city’s maze-like layout.
  • Private Water Taxis: For a faster and more direct mode of transportation, consider hailing a water taxi. These privately-operated boats can be found at designated taxi stands or booked in advance. While more expensive than public transportation, water taxis offer a quick and convenient way to reach your destination, particularly if you’re traveling with heavy luggage or have limited time.

How to Use Public Transportation in Venice

When visiting Venice, public transportation can be an efficient way to get around the city. Since your time during your one day in Venice is limited you will want to make sure you are getting around as efficiently as possible. Here are a few tips to help you navigate the system:

  • Buy a travel pass: A single trip on Venice’s Vaporetto water buses can cost up to 9.5 euros, so it’s worth investing in a travel pass if you plan on using public transportation frequently during your stay. You can purchase passes for one, two or three days at most ticket offices.
  • Plan ahead: Before setting out for the day, check schedules and routes online or at tourist information centers so that you know which lines will take you where you need to go.
  • Know your stops: The Vaporetto has multiple stops along each route, so make sure you know the name of the stop you need to get off at. You can find a map of the Vaporetto routes at each stop.
  • Validate your ticket: If you buy a single ticket, make sure to validate it by tapping it against the machine on board the Vaporetto or at the stop before boarding.
  • Arrive early: During peak season, lines for Vaporettos can be long and wait times may exceed thirty minutes. To avoid losing precious time waiting in line, arrive at stops early in the morning when crowds are smaller. This is especially true if you plan to visit any of the Venetian lagoon islands like Murano and Burano when you only have one day in Venice and a train or flight to catch.
  • Mind your belongings: Public transportation is always busy with people coming and going constantly; therefore it’s crucial not to let your guard down regarding personal safety such as pickpocketing risks etc
  • Respect local customs: When boarding crowded boats or buses adhere to Venetian etiquette by allowing older passengers and families with children priority seating.

By following these tips travelers should have no problem navigating through Venice quickly and efficiently while making sure they hit all their must-see destinations before finishing their one day in Venice itinerary and departing from this iconic Italian city!

FAQ

Is there an entrance fee?

At the time this article was written (April 2023), there was still no entrance fee to pay for your one day in Venice trip. However, it is expected a small fee will be put in place this June 2023. How much will it be? 

Is tipping required?

Tipping is not mandatory, but it’s customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants if you receive good service. If traveling by water taxi with luggage, then tipping may also be appreciated.

Should I skip Venice and spend more time in Rome or Florence?

This depends on personal preference and interests; however, it’s worth noting that each city has its own unique attractions, making them all worthwhile destinations! Rome offers ancient ruins such as the Colosseum and Forum along with Vatican City, home of the Sistine Chapel, while Florence boasts Renaissance architecture, including Michelangelo’s David statue among other art collections. 
Venice, on the other hand, provides romantic gondola rides through winding canals alongside stunning landmarks such as Saint Mark’s Basilica which makes this island city entirely different from any other Italian destination; therefore, consider spending more than one day in Venice.

How much is a gondola ride?

A private gondola ride starts at €80 for 30 minutes up to €120 per hour depending on duration and route taken, so it can be quite expensive, especially if traveling solo, though some tour operators offer shared gondola ride group rates that could reduce costs.

Is there a lot of walking in Venice?

Yes, Venetian streets are mostly pedestrianized, meaning visitors will do plenty of walking throughout their stay, although distances aren’t too long between locations, especially when using Vaporetti boats or water taxis for transportation options. So, comfortable shoes should be worn to make exploring easier since most areas lack smooth pavement.

Wrapping It Up

Although I am very firm in my opinion that the best amount of time to spend in Venice is three days, if you only have one day in Venice, you can still enjoy your trip when you follow the above one-day in Venice itinerary. 

However, if you are in the planning stage of your trip, then consider adding a night to Venice and removing one from somewhere else so you can see the hidden gems and not just the major attractions. 

Once you see how much there is to do when you have more time, you will no doubt wish you had planned for more time. 

Make sure to check out these other articles that can help you get the most out of your one day in Venice!

Sal Presti

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