48 hours in Venice : The Ultimate Two Day Itinerary

Welcome back to The Velvet Runway and our guide to 48 hours in Venice : The Ultimate Two Day Itinerary.

When it comes to dream destinations, few places captivate the imagination quite like Venice. Known as the “Floating City,” this enchanting Italian gem offers a unique blend of history, beauty, and romance. If you’re seeking a destination that will leave an indelible mark on your travel memories, here are compelling reasons why you should add Venice to your bucket list, and our top tips for What to do in 48 hours in Venice, Italy.

Why Venice should be on your bucket list

The magical canals : Venice’s intricate network of canals is nothing short of magical. Imagine gliding through shimmering waters on a gondola, passing under picturesque bridges, all the while surrounded by breathtaking sights.

The stunning architecture: Venice boasts an architectural heritage that is truly awe-inspiring. From the grandeur of St. Mark’s Basilica to the ornate details of the Doge’s Palace, the city is a treasure trove of historical and artistic masterpieces. Each corner holds architectural wonders that will transport you back in time.

The rich culture : Not only that, but Venice has long been a hub for artistic and cultural expression. The city is home to numerous museums and galleries, showcasing masterpieces from renowned artists throughout history. From the Peggy Guggenheim Collection to the Gallerie dell’Accademia, art enthusiasts will find themselves immersed in a world of creativity and inspiration.

Explore the narrow streets, hidden squares, and local markets to immerse yourself in the authentic Venetian way of life. Indulge in the traditional cuisine, sip on local wines, and experience the warmth and hospitality of the Venetian people.

The romantic Atmosphere: Venice has long been considered one of the most romantic cities in the world, and for good reason. The combination of picturesque canals, charming bridges, and candlelit alleyways creates an ambiance that is simply unmatched.

The Venetian Islands: If you run out of things to do in Venice itself, then venture beyond the main island to explore the neighbouring islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello. Witness the delicate art of glassblowing on Murano, stroll through the rainbow-colored houses of Burano, and discover the serene beauty of Torcello. Each island offers its own unique charm, and if you have the time, you could also visit the San Michele Cemetery.

And finally, Venice is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a deep historical and cultural significance. Its preservation and protection are of utmost importance, ensuring that future generations can continue to be enamored by its beauty and historical importance.

Here is my guide for what to do in a weekend in Venice.

48 hours in Venice : The Ultimate Two Day Itinerary

With its winding canals, picturesque bridges, and magnificent architecture, Venice offers a weekend getaway that will leave you captivated. Join us as we explore the best activities and sights to make the most of your time in this floating city.

48 hours in Venice : Friday evening

Arrive in Venice and check into your hotel.

Start your weekend with a romantic gondola ride through the canals of Venice. Drift along the narrow waterways as a gondolier serenades you, offering a unique and intimate perspective of the city. Glide beneath picturesque bridges and past historic buildings, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Gondola rides are not as expensive as you might think, and they are heavily regulated. Gondola fares are standard and set officially. As of this writing, the tariff for a 30-minute ride on a gondola is € 80 (or €100 if you want to explore the small canals.) The price goes up to € 100 from 7 pm onwards. The price is per gondola, not per person, and the maximum capacity of the gondola is 5 people. So, if you are four to five people, it costs just €20 for a half hour gondola ride. You should be aware however that payment is in cash.

Insider Tip : If you don’t have the budget for a gondola, then head for the nearest traghetto pier and get rowed to the other side. A traghetto, also called a gondola parada, carries up to 10/12 passengers (compared to five for a privately-hired gondola). They are rowed by two oarsmen: one who stands behind the passengers like a traditional gondolier, the other closer to the bow. As a tourist, you’ll be expected to pay €2 (nearly three times the residents’ rate of 70 cents), but still a very cheap way to take a (short) gondola ride.
There are seven crossing points on the Grand Canal, and boats normally shuttle back and forth almost continuously, so you shouldn’t have to wait long if the service is running.

If a gondola ride is not for you, one of the best options is a ride on an ACTV vaporetto, the most common form of transportation around Venice’s waterways. 

Alternatively stroll around Venice’s labyrinth of streets and alleyways. Wander away from the main tourist areas to discover hidden gems, quiet squares, and the charming neighbourhoods where locals live.

End the evening with an Aperol Spritz, followed by a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, and savour some traditional Venetian cuisine, and Italian wines.

SPRITZ (sometimes known as sunshine in a glass) is the classic Venetian aperitif, it’s a mix of white wine, Aperol and a squirt of seltz or Sparkling mineral water.

Venetian Aperol Spritz Recipe

The name comes from spritzen, a term of Austrian origins meaning “to spray”, since the soldiers of the Austrian Empire used to ask for watering the wine down, either with some sparkling water or with some seltz.

The Venetian Spritz originated between Padua and Venice, in the early 1900s: when Aperol (Padua in 1919) or Select (Venice in 1920) was added to wine and water.

The Original venetian spritz recipe is

• 7.5 cl Prosecco;
• 5 cl Select;
• 2.5 cl soda water;
• one green olive.

However, Aperol subsequently triumphed in the marketing campaigns and became the drink associated with Venice. Many versions now use use equal quantities of each ingredient and some use Prosecco instead of white wine, and the usual Spritz recipe today is

• ⅓ of wine or Prosecco
• ⅓ of sparkling water
• ⅓ of Aperol
• Pour over ice cubes and garnish with an orange slice and/or a green olive

48 hours in Venice : Saturday Morning

Start your day at St. Mark’s Square, the heart of Venice. Marvel at the magnificent St. Mark’s Basilica, a spectacular cathedral, which is noted for its intricate mosaics and gilded interiors.

The Campanile di San Marco (or St. Marks Campanile) is a 12th century bell tower in Venice that offers stunning views of the Piazza San Marco. Climb the bell tower for breathtaking views of the city and to soak in the lively atmosphere of the square.

Don’t forget to grab a coffee at one of the historic cafes and watch the world go by.

Hours : from 9.30am (Sunday and Solemnities ‘of precept’ from 2pm) to 5.15pm (last admission 4.45pm)
Price: ticket: 3 €; free for children up to 6 years of age), with the possibility to see also the Pala d’Oro (supplement: 5 €; free for children up to 6 years of age) and the Museum – Loggia dei Cavalli (supplement: 7 €; free for children up to 6 years of age)
The Bell Tower opens every day from 9.30am to 9.15pm (last admission: 8.45pm; ticket: 10 €; free for children up to 6 years of age). In the event of adverse weather conditions (fog, strong wind, intense cold), the Bell Tower will be closed.

You can buy tickets here.

Visit the Doge’s Palace, located adjacent to St. Mark’s Square, and step back in time to discover the fascinating history of Venice.

The Doge’s Palace, which served as the residence of the Doges of Venice, is a Venetian Gothic palace built in the early 14th century by architect Filippo Calendario, and it is full of lavish Venetian Gothic opulence, as well as tales of the city’s history and intrigue.

Hours : every day from 09.00 to 19.00 (last entrance at 18.00). Evening opening hours until 23.00 (last admission 22.00) on Fridays and Saturdays from 12 May to 30 September 2023.
Price: Full Price : 25€, Reduced Price: 15€

Next, walk across the iconic Bridge of Sighs and imagine the emotions of the prisoners who crossed it.

The Bridge of Sighs is a unique arched bridge that connects the Doges Palace to the building of the New Prisons, and it is associated with legends about prisoners who were sentenced to spend time in the prisons nearby.

Saturday afternoon

After lunch, head to Ponte dell’Accademia, a wood-&-metal bridge over the Grand Canal adorned with padlocks.

Just across the bridge, visit the Gallerie dell’Accademia, a Museum of 13th- to 18th-century Venetian artwork, with paintings by Titian, Canaletto & Tiepolo.

Hours : Mondays from 08.15 to 14.00 and Tuesday to Sundays from 08.15 to 19.15 (last entrance one hour before closure).
Price: 12€ + 1€ until 15 September 2023

Art enthusiasts should also not miss the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, housed in the Palazzo Venier dei Leoni, the former home of Peggy Guggenheim herself, where you can admire an impressive collection of modern art, and soak in the beauty of the canal-side garden, which features sculptures and a serene atmosphere.

Hours : every day from 10.00 to 18.00 (last entrance at 17.15).
Price: 17€ for entry, 27€ for entrance with guided tour.

The Peggy Guggenheim Collection is considered one of the most important museums in Europe and America for 20th century art, and the collection features works by some of the most famous artists of the time, including Pablo Picasso, Jackson Pollock, Salvador Dali and Alexander Calder. The museum is also home to special exhibitions throughout the year.

Continue on to Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute, a spectacular domed baroque church with unique octagonal design and a sacristy housing 12 works by Titian.

Take a boat trip down the Grand canal to the Palazzo Fontana Rezzonico : This 17th-century palace along the Grand Canal was the birthplace of Pope Clement XIII.

Then, walk next door to the Galleria Giorgio Franchetti alla Ca’ d’Oro: The Ca’ d’Oro, one of the most prestigious late Gothic palaces in Venice, houses the important art collection of the Baron Giorgio Franchetti (1865-1927), who in 1916 donated his collections and the building itself to the Italian State. The collection includes furniture, paintings, medals, tapestries, bronzes and sculptures as well as a new exposition section with Venetian ceramics.

The building itself is also stunning, and of particular interest is the inner courtyard, with its impressive floor marked out by the ancient marbles’ mosaic, made by the Baron himself to evocate the early Christian Cathedrals, and the original well curb sculpted by Bartolomeo Bon in 1427.

Saturday Evening

Cross the famous Rialto Bridge, the oldest bridge spanning the Grand Canal, and explore the vibrant Rialto Market nearby. The Rialto Bridge is one of Venice’s most iconic landmarks and a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike. The bridge spans the Grand Canal between its two highest points above sea level, providing an easy way for ships to pass.

Immerse yourself in the Rialto Market, a vibrant traditional Venetian market. Wander through the stalls filled with colorful fruits, vegetables, and fresh seafood.

Then, visit or walk by the Scuola Grande di San Rocco, an ornate, 16th-century art museum featuring works by Renaissance artist Tintoretto.

One of the best ways to experience Venice is to wander through its neighbourhoods. Explore the charming streets of Dorsoduro and Cannaregio, where you’ll stumble upon hidden squares, local shops, and cafes.

For the Saturday night we recommend taking some time to discover the charm of Dorsoduro and then dedicate the start of Sunday to exploring Cannaregio.

Dorsoduro is Venice’s university district and the streets around the Campo Santa Margherita are filled with unpretentious eateries and vintage fashion boutiques, and it’s a great area to end your day.

If you’re feeling energetic why not try a sunset kayaking tour in Venice, and explore the canals like never before! Your 2-hour kayaking tour in Venice will start by meeting your guide. After briefing you about the itinerary, they’ll hand you the equipment and lead you on a memorable kayaking adventure in Venice! You’ll paddle around the canals for 5 km / 3 mi to admire Venice’s timeless beauty. Your guide will take beautiful memory photos, leaving you with the best souvenir from this lovely experience.

Then, after the effort the recompense! Enjoy a delightful dinner at a local trattoria, indulging in more Venetian delights.

48 hours in Venice : Sunday

Start the last day of your 48 hours in Venice in Cannaregio, the northernmost of the six historic sestieri of Venice. It is the second largest sestiere by land area and the largest by population. Isola di San Michele, the historic cemetery island, is associated with the district.

Take a boat to the San Michele Cemetery, this walled island cemetery, built in the early 1800s, is home to the tombs of Ezra Pound & Igor Stravinsky.

Then, you could spend the day visiting the Venetian Islands: Murano, Burano and Torcello.

Murano

Murano is a small island located in the Venetian Lagoon and famous for its glass-making industry. The island has several studios where artisans blow glass into exquisite pieces of pottery, chandeliers, vases and sculptures.

Tourists often visit the island to watch skilled artisans work and buy souvenirs at the gift shops.

Burano

Burano is a small but colourful island in the Venetian lagoon known for its lace-making industry. The idyllic island is also home to many seafood restaurants and a bell tower. While Murano is more frequented by tourists, Burano offers an interesting contrast in architecture and lifestyle.

Stroll through the charming streets, admire the intricate lacework, and enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant.

Torcello

For a quieter experience, take a short boat ride to Torcello. Explore the peaceful island and its historic sites, including the stunning Byzantine Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta.

Take a moment to enjoy the tranquility of the island’s nature before returning to Venice.

Insider Tip: Most boat trips start by visiting the island of Murano, so to avoid the crowds take the boat to Torcello first. However, be aware that there may well be queues on the return trip. You will probably be offered free boat trips to the island while you are wandering around Venice. However, you should be aware that once you arrive on the island you will be taken to watch a demonstration of the local craft and then the salesroom and it can be difficult to leave without purchasing!

Indulge in Venetian cuisine for your final evening in the city, and allow your taste buds to savour the flavours of Venice before you bid farewell to this enchanting city.

Map View of 48 hours in Venice : The Ultimate Two Day Itinerary

1. St Mark’s Square
2. St Mark’s Basilica
3. St Mark’s Campanile
4. Doge’s Palace
5. Bridge of Sighs
6. Ponte dell’Accademia
7. Gallerie dell’Accademia
8. Peggy Guggenheim Collection
9. Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute
10. Water taxi on the Grand Canal
11. Palazzo Fontana Rezzonico
12. Galleria Giorgio Franchetti alla Ca’ d’Oro
13. Rialto Bridge
14. Scuola Grande di San Rocco
15. Dorsoduro
16. Cannaregio
17. San Michele Cemetery
18. Murano

Burano and Torcello are beyond Murano and off the map.

Final thoughts about 48 hours in Venice : The Ultimate Two Day Itinerary

Venice is a city that exudes magic and allure at every turn. From exploring iconic landmarks to getting lost in its charming neighbourhoods, this floating city offers an unforgettable weekend getaway. Embrace the romance, art, and culinary delights that Venice has to offer, and create memories that will linger long after you’ve bid farewell to this enchanting destination.

Add this extraordinary destination to your bucket list, and let the magic of Venice unfold before your eyes.

Obviously, this is not an exhaustive guide to Venice, but I hope it has given you a few ideas as the basis for planning a trip to this beautiful European City, with its romantic canals, stunning architecture, and rich cultural heritage.

I hope you enjoyed this post on 48 hours in Venice, Italy and have a look here for more of our travel guides.

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With love,

Note : Opening hours and prices are correct at the time of publishing, but please make sure to check before planning your trip. If you would like help with planning your trip or you would just like to book hotels at a great price, then please send me an e-mail to find out how I can help you, (and remember there is no fee for hotel booking). 😊✨