Venice in 2 days
Venice is a city to get lost in: a gondola on a quiet canal, a spritz at the counter of a bacaro, the coloured houses of Burano across the lagoon. Go early in the morning, before the crowds.
The plan, day by day
Day 1
- Morning
St Mark's Squarefree · about 1 hThe city's great square, framed by St Mark's Basilica, its bell tower and the Doge's Palace, best seen early before the crowds arrive.
- Afternoon
The Grand Canal by gondolaabout 30 minVenice's main waterway, lined with palaces, seen from a gondola; the vaporetto along the same route is the cheaper alternative.
- Late afternoon
The Rialto Bridgefree · about 30 minThe oldest bridge across the Grand Canal, a stone arch lined with shops, next to the Rialto fish and produce market.
Day 2
- Morning
Murano and Buranofree · half a dayTwo lagoon islands reached by vaporetto: Murano for its glassmaking, Burano for its brightly painted houses and lace.
- Late afternoon
The Doge's Palaceabout 1 h 30The Gothic seat of the Venetian Republic, with vast council chambers, Tintoretto's enormous canvas in the Great Council Hall and the Bridge of Sighs.
Where to sleep in Venice
- Anda Venice Hostel · €30 a night
- Hotel Al Malcanton · €100 a night
- Hotel Caneva · €110 a night
- Hotel Antiche Figure · €180 a night
- Ca' Pisani Hotel · €230 a night
- Hotel Moresco · €230 a night
- Hotel Danieli · €900 a night
- The Gritti Palace · €950 a night
- Hotel Cipriani · €1200 a night
Plan this trip
Hotel prices per room per night, checked when written. Some links are affiliate links: we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.