Italy is home to many beautiful cities, one of which is Venice. Mostly known as the city built on canals, being here will transport you back to the olden times, especially when you ride a gondola around. Must-visits include St. Mark's Square and Basilica, Doge's Palace, and the well-known Rialto Bridge over the Grand Canal. With so many things to do in Venice, the fun and adventure will surely not sun out!
And hey, if you’re staying only for 2 days in Venice, then we’ve got you covered with what to do and where to go. Read on below to find out more.
Day 1: A little bit of architecture and culture
One of the best ways to explore another country or a different city is through its architecture, history, and culture. With that, here are some things to do in Venice on your first day.
1. Embark on a St. Mark's Basilica and Doge's Palace tour
Marvel at breathtaking sights and architecture when you visit St. Mark's Basilica and Doge's Palace! Going on a St. Mark's Basilica and Doge's Palace tour is definitely one of the best things to do in Venice. Your trip won’t be complete without a visit to these iconic sites.
St. Mark's Basilica is a major pilgrimage and religious site in Venice
The tour will first take you to Doge's Palace, where you’ll be delighted by Venetian Gothic architecture, Renaissance art, and a walk across the historic Bridge of Sighs, which is connected to the New Prison (Prigioni Nuove) across the Rio di Palazzo waterway. Make sure to explore the palace’s interiors, including grand halls, sculptures, and several chambers.
Immerse yourself in Venetian history, power, and art when you visit Doge’s Palace
After the palace, you’ll then head to St. Mark's Basilica, filled with stunning gold mosaics and a mix of Byzantine, Romanesque, and Gothic architectural styles. It’s also home to the relics of Saint Mark the Evangelist, marking its religious significance to Venice.
The tour comes with a guide who will enlighten you more about Venice’s rich history, art, and culture. Feel free to ask questions, too, if you have any as you go about the tour.
2. Go on a romantic gondola ride
Riding a gondola in Venice is perfect for couples, as well as families and friends
If you’re looking to have a unique and unforgettable experience of the city, then this Grand Canal gondola ride should be on your list of things to do in Venice. Gondolas played a big part in Venice’s history and culture when they were once the city’s primary mode of transportation. If anything, gondolas symbolize Venice’s artistry and craftsmanship, as these boats are carefully handcrafted using wood.
Apart from admiring Venice’s amazing waterways, you’ll also be going along the Grand Canal, which promises breathtaking scenery and views of the city.
Day 2: Explore some free things to do in Venice
Let’s fill the second day of your Venice 2-day itinerary with some free things to do in the city!
1. Visit the Jewish Ghetto
The Jewish Ghetto was established in 1516 / Photo from Steven Zucker on Flickr
Considered one of the world's oldest Jewish ghettos in the Cannaregio district, this site is surely one of the best free things to do in Venice. It has five synagogues, the Jewish Museum, and a memorial for the victims of the Holocaust. As you walk around, get ready to unpack more of the life and history of the Jews back in the olden times and discover the significance of the Jewish Ghetto today.
2. Via Garibaldi
Via Garibaldi is a hidden gem in Venice where you can explore freely with fewer crowds / Photo from Jorge Franganillo on Flickr
Experience the local Venetian life and a vibrant atmosphere at Via Garibaldi, a district in the Castello neighborhood. Here, you’ll be mesmerized by some sights to see, such as the Arsenale, a shipyard and naval base, and San Pietro di Castello, a former basilica. There are also picturesque canals here, as well as buildings showing Venetian architecture.
After all the strolling and sightseeing, grab a bite at some of the restaurants nearby, like Nevodi, serving classic Italian food; La Nuova Perla, offering traditional Venetian dishes; and Trattoria-Pizzeria Sottoprova, specializing in pizzas and many more. You can easily spend hours here with all the walking, eating, and shopping!
Tips for Visiting Venice in 48 Hours
1. Stay connected during your trip with an Italy eSIM
To make navigation during your trip to Venice fuss-free, we highly recommend getting a 5G Italy eSIM! You’ll need one for multiple reasons, such as using Google Maps, communicating both locally and internationally, or simply checking important information on establishments and attractions you plan to visit.
2. Buy a Venice Vaporetto Pass for convenient transportation
The Venice Vaporetto Pass is an all-inclusive public transportation ticket that gives you unlimited access to vaporetti, or water buses, in Venice, Lido, and the Lagoon Islands. You can also use the pass for buses in Mestre and Marghera. And hey, it also comes with a one-way airport transfer! The pass offers many validity options: 75 minutes, 1, 2, 3, or 7 days.
This pass is perfect for your 48-hour Venice trip, as it provides convenient transportation and amazing scenery on the way to key attractions such as the Rialto Bridge and St. Mark’s Square.
3. Start your day early
Venice is extra beautiful before 7:00 am. Since you’ll only be spending 48 hours in the city, why not start both days early to make sure you maximize every minute, right? The city in the early morning is much more peaceful, misty, and definitely more stunning, and less crowded for photos. We highly recommend watching the sun rise at St. Mark’s Square or walking across the Rialto Bridge, where there aren’t many people yet.
Enjoy your trip to Venice!
Fall in love with Venice, the floating city, and its beautiful canals and amazing gondola rides
Two days in Venice may seem short, but you can easily maximize that time by visiting famous sites on Day 1 and exploring hidden gems on Day 2. There are so many things to do in Venice that are perfect for different types of travelers. So, what are you waiting for? Book your flights, secure your activities, and have a wonderful Venetian trip! Safe travels, everyone!
FAQs
1. What to not miss in Venice?
When in Venice, don’t miss out on St. Mark's Square, including the Basilica di San Marco and Doge's Palace, and take a gondola ride on the Grand Canal.
2. What to do in Venice for first timers?
For first‑timers, make sure to visit St. Mark's Basilica and Doge's Palace.
3. Is 2 days in Venice too long?
No, two days in Venice are not too long. Two days are actually ideal for you to see the city’s iconic sights, as well as experience its vibrant local atmosphere.
4. Do’s and don'ts in Venice, Italy?
There are a couple of do’s and don’ts you have to keep in mind when in Venice, such as walking on the right side of the streets and using the city’s free public water fountains to stay hydrated or refill your water bottles. Please also take note that swimming in the canals is illegal and dangerous, and that sitting or eating at religious sites and historic monuments is considered disrespectful.
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