How to Spend 24 Hours in Venice, Italy: The Perfect One Day Itinerary
Short on time in your Italy itinerary? Use this one day in Venice guide to plan your 24 hour trip to one of Italy’s most beloved cities!
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Discovering Venice in just 24 hours is a true whirlwind of history, art and charm. From famous landmarks like St. Mark's Basilica and the Grand Canal to hidden alleys and local shops dotted endlessly throughout the island, Venice is an absolute dream destination.
You might hear some people say that they didn’t like Venice due to the crowds and the heat…
But those people probably didn’t plan accordingly! No matter how much time you have to spend in Venice, it’s essential to wake up early and start exploring the popular spots in the morning to avoid the mid-day crowds.
For context: on my most recent trip to Venice (which was only slightly over 24 hours), we started walking around the city at 7:00am. The streets were nearly empty, and we had some of the most iconic viewpoints entirely to ourselves!
So, whether you're enjoying a classic Venetian meal at a canal-side restaurant, browsing bustling markets, or just wandering across the many picturesque bridges - this guide dives into the very best of how to see Venice in one day.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Top 5 Must Do's in Venice
Getting to Venice
How to Get Around During 1 Day in Venice
Is One Day Enough Time for Venice?
One Day in Venice Itinerary
Other Top Attractions in Venice, Italy
Where To Eat in Venice
Best Tours of Venice
Venice Travel Tips
Venice Day Visitor Fee
FAQ About Venice, Italy
In a rush? Don’t miss these top 5 must do's in Venice:
St. Mark's Square: St. Mark's Basilica, the Doge's Palace, Bridge of Sighs
Rialto Bridge and the Grand Canal
An iconic Venice gondola experience
Explore the Venetian islands - Murano or Burano
Try Venetian cuisine - fresh seafood, cicchetti, and tiramisu
The Top Tours in Venice:
Getting To Venice
Venice, an enchanting island city built on water, is situated on the sea in northeastern Italy. It’s easily accessible by various means of transportation - but transport by water is the true go-to method.
The most common way to reach Venice is by flying into Venice Marco Polo Airport, which is a major international airport located on the mainland. There are several direct flights into Venice Marco Polo Airport from North America (i.e. New York, Montreal, Atlanta, etc), as well as many countries in Europe.
Another option is to arrive by train to Venice Santa Lucia Railway Station, which is connected to several major cities in Europe.
From the airport, you can take a water bus, a water taxi, or a bus (on land) to reach the city center. I highly recommend the water routes for a more exciting and authentic experience! These are the 3 water route options:
Take a water bus, otherwise known as the “Alilaguna” boats (least expensive)
Take a shared water taxi (mid-range price)
Take a private water taxi (most expensive option)
>> Read the full guide: How to get to Venice from Marco Polo Airport
Water taxis in Venice
How to Get Around During One Day in Venice
Getting around Venice in one day is all about walking and hopping on vaporettos. With no cars or buses allowed in the city, you'll find yourself strolling through narrow alleys, crossing charming bridges, and discovering hidden squares with cafes and eateries.
I personally prefer to walk everywhere, as Venice is a rather small island with so much to see between any point A and point B. For longer hauls, if you’re not able to walk, the vaporetto (water bus) is your best bet! Grab a one-day travel card for unlimited rides, making it easy to jump on and off as you explore.
>> Book a day pass for the vaporetto service
Is One Day Enough Time for Venice?
Venice is a city that you could spend days getting wonderfully lost in. Those historic winding streets seem to go on forever, with hidden gems around every corner.
But if you only have 24 hours, yes! That is enough time for a wonderful trip. You can absolutely still get a taste of Venice’s unmatched charm with just one full day.
The city's small size and well-connected public transport system will allow you to cover the essentials in one day. However, it’s still essential to plan your itinerary wisely and prioritize your must-see attractions to make the most of those 24 hours in Venice.
One of many picturesque bridges
The Bridge of Sighs
Beautiful colors and facades of Venice
One Day in Venice Itinerary
Here's my recommended itinerary for how to spend 24 hours in Venice:
Morning:
Start your day at St. Mark's Square (Piazza San Marco), the heart of Venice and one of the most famous squares in the world. Take your time to walk around and admire this gorgeous architecture in the soft morning light. Stop by St. Mark's Basilica, a masterpiece of Byzantine design, known for its mosaics and golden domes.
Next, head to the Doge's Palace, a historic gem that once served as the residence of the Doge, the leader of Venice. Don’t miss the Bridge of Sighs right around the corner, a famous structure with a powerful story. Prisoners were said to "sigh" at their last view of beautiful Venice, hence the name!
If you’re a coffee lover, end your morning with a stop at Caffè Florian. Located right in St. Mark’s Square, this iconic spot dates back to 1720, making it the oldest coffee shop in Italy still in operation today!
Mid-morning:
Walk across the Rialto Bridge, one of Venice’s most famous landmarks, and for good reason! It's actually the oldest of the four bridges that cross the Grand Canal. Soak in the amazing views of the busy canal from its elegant arches. Or better yet, look out towards the bridge (for a photo-op!) from a quieter viewpoint like this one.
After that, head over to the lively Rialto Market and dive into the colorful mix of fresh produce, fragrant spices, and all kinds of seafood - it’s a total feast for the senses.
While you’re wandering through the nearby streets and canals, don’t miss the quirky Libreria Acqua Alta. This one-of-a-kind bookstore keeps its books in bathtubs, gondolas and waterproof containers to protect them from Venice’s frequent flooding. It’s a magical little spot that has become quite famous in recent years.
The Grand Canal as seen from the top of the Rialto Bridge
Noon:
If you’re in Venice and craving an authentic food adventure, you’re in for a serious treat! First thing's first, make your way to Bar All’Arco. Their cicchetti (Venetian small plates) are little bites of heaven, perfectly paired with a glass of wine - it's the ultimate snack stop.
Looking for something a bit heartier? Don’t miss I' Bacaro de' Bischeri for the most incredible sandwiches. And for all the pasta lovers out there, you cannot leave Venice without trying Dal Moro's. Their fresh, made-to-order takeaway pasta is next level - some of the best you’ll ever taste, hands down.
Want to dive even deeper into Venice’s incredible food options? Join a walking food tour! These tours, led by Venetian locals, take you to hidden gems and give you a behind-the-scenes look (and taste) at the city’s amazing food scene. This is a must for my fellow foodies.
Early afternoon:
Take an iconic gondola ride and explore the charming canals of Venice. There are gondola stops all over Venice, you can easily show up and grab a ride at a location that you like best. PS. Gondola rates are pre-determined by the city of Venice, so no need to “shop around” for the best price.
>> You can also book a private gondola ride in advance. Check the availability calendar below & book your tickets in advance to get the time slot you want!
Mid-afternoon:
Explore a little further! Spend the afternoon wandering to some of Venice’s other top attractions, or discovering hidden gem locations that showcase the city’s unique charm beyond the main tourist spots.
To make the most of your visit, book entry tickets in advance to one of these must-see sights:
The stunning Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo, famous for its intricate spiral staircase and breathtaking views. You can book the €8 entry ticket in advance, and climb to the top of the beautiful spiral tower.
The historic La Fenice Opera House, a symbol of Venice’s rich cultural history. Book your entry ticket + audio guide in advance!
Or the Rooftop at T Fondaco dei Tedeschi by DFS, with its breathtaking panoramic view of the city - perfect for capturing some photos. Best of all, access to the rooftop is actually free! (But you still need to book your entry ticket in advance).
Evening:
Grab dinner at a cozy canal-side restaurant in Venice and soak up the romantic vibes. Picture this: the gentle sound of water, gondolas gliding by, and a plate of fresh seafood or pasta in front of you. It doesn’t get any better than that!
Not sure where to go? Don’t worry, I have some great restaurant recommendations later in this guide to help you plan the perfect night! Good to know: Dinner reservations are essential if you have a must-visit restaurant in mind.
Late evening:
Take a leisurely evening walk through Venice's quieter streets, where the crowds fade. As the sun sets, watch the canals light up with a golden glow - it’s pure magic and the perfect time to soak in the charm of the city.
And here’s the cherry on top: grab a gelato to round out the night! One spot you absolutely can’t miss is Gelatoteca Suso - their rich, creamy flavors are heavenly. More of a tiramisu lover? Don't skip the famous I Tre Mercanti, where you can even watch them make fresh batches every hour.
Pro Tip: If you want to see these main attractions from the outside without entering for tours (i.e. the Doge's Palace, which opens at 9:00am), I highly recommend starting your day even earlier than 9:00am. I started at around 7:00am on my last trip, and experienced nearly empty streets. It was truly perfect! 6:30 / 7:00am is an ideal time to start your day to avoid crowds.
View of the Rialto Bridge
St. Mark's Square
Gondola rides
St. Mark's Basilica
Map for 24 Hours in Venice
Other Top Attractions in Venice, Italy
Apart from the must-do activities mentioned above, here are a few other attractions you should consider visiting in Venice:
Peggy Guggenheim Collection - A must-visit for modern art lovers, this museum showcases an impressive collection of 20th-century artworks in Peggy Guggenheim’s former home.
Basilica Santa Maria della Salute - A beautiful baroque church located at the entrance to the Grand Canal, known for its impressive dome and stunning interior.
Squero di San Trovaso - a historic gondola boatyard and workshop where craftsmen have been handcrafting and repairing gondolas for centuries (since the 17th century!). This is a true hidden gem in Venice, often overlooked by visitors. Secure a tour ahead of time, since you aren’t able to show up and wander in without a prior booking.
Exploring the canals and bridges - get lost on purpose!
Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo
Where To Eat in Venice
Venice offers dining options for every style of traveler, from upscale restaurants to budget-friendly trattorias. Here are a few favorite recommendations for where to eat in Venice:
Bar All’Arco - a wine bar and popular spot for cicchetti, a staple when in Venice.
I' Bacaro De' Bischeri - incredible sandwiches that are often said to be the best in the city, located in a hidden alley near the Rialto Bridge.
Caffè Florian - the oldest coffee shop in Italy that’s still in operation today.
Caffè del Doge - wonderful coffee and pastries near the Rialto Bridge. This is my personal favorite spot for coffee in Venezia!
Dal Moro's - the best takeaway pasta you’ll ever eat. I dream about their pesto pasta.
1000 Gourmet - delicious pizza. Need I say more?
Osteria da Alberto - A local favorite, offering traditional Venetian dishes (like risotto and squid ink pasta) in a relaxed, cozy atmosphere.
Antica Trattoria Poste Vecie - eat incredible food at the oldest restaurant in the city, dating back to the 1500s.
Ai Mercanti - a family-run, Michelin-starred “gastrosteria” tucked away in a small Venetian courtyard, offering a modern interpretation of Venetian cuisine.
Gelatoteca Suso - don’t skip this gelato shop!
I Tre Mercanti - famous for its fresh, handcrafted tiramisu made right before your eyes.
Gelatoteca Suso
Caffè Florian
Cicchetti from Bar All’Arco
Dal Moro's takeaway pasta
Best Tours of Venice
Booking a niche day tour (or even a guided walking tour in Venice) is a fantastic idea for anyone who wants to make the most of their limited time exploring this unique city.
Disclaimer: I am typically not one to book standard tours. Usually, I like to get a little bit lost and explore on my own when visiting new places. However, “standard tours” don’t apply here! This list is anything but ordinary. And, a guided tour is an ideal way to maximize your time during a one day in Venice itinerary.
Unique Venice Tours:
A local food tasting tour
Street Food Tour with a Local Guide and Tastings (2.5 hours)
A boat tour or relaxing cruise
Catamaran Sunset Jazz Cruise with Aperitivo (so relaxing!)
Off-the-beaten-path tours
With a local guide leading the way, you can dive into Venice's rich history and discover the stories of both famous landmarks, as well as hidden spots that would otherwise be missed.
Even without a proper guided tour, I recommend booking “skip the line” tickets in advance for any paid attractions that you plan to incorporate into your 1 day in Venice.
Skip the line tickets:
Venice Travel Tips
Plan your itinerary in advance - With limited time in Venice, you’ll want to plan your day wisely to make the most of it! Research the top attractions as well as hidden gems, and plan your route accordingly.
Get lost in the backstreets - Venice's true charm lies in its hidden corners and narrow alleys. Take the time to wander off the beaten path and discover the quieter side of the city. It’s easy to get wonderfully lost on purpose in Venice.
Avoid peak tourist hours - To avoid the crowds, I highly recommend visiting more popular attractions early in the morning or late in the evening. Tour boats with large groups tend to arrive in the city around 9:00 am, so the earlier you can get started the better!
Be mindful of local customs - Venice is a unique city with its own customs and traditions. Respect the local culture and be mindful of noise levels, especially in residential areas.
Watch out for pickpockets - Venice is known for incidents of pickpocketing. While I’ve never experienced this on my own travels to Venice, it’s always essential to stay aware of your belongings and surroundings while exploring the city.
Looking up between St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace
Venice Day Visitor Fee
Starting in 2024, Venice has implemented a Day Visitor Fee aimed at managing the overwhelming tourist influx and preserving the city's historic charm. This fee only applies to day-trippers who are not staying overnight in Venetian accommodations.
It's a flat 5 euros ($5.45) per person per day. To comply with this new regulation, you can pay the fee online through the official Venice municipality website or at authorized vendors and kiosks throughout the city.
I advise paying in advance to avoid any potential fines. Or, book accommodations right in Venice! That way, you are exempt from paying the fee. Important: Even with an exemption, you must register via the Venice Access Fee website linked below.
Funds collected from the Day Visitor Fee are being utilized to maintain Venice's infrastructure and heritage - which is a cause I think we can all get behind.
FAQ about Venice, Italy
Q: What is the best time to visit Venice?
A: The best time to visit Venice is during the spring (April to May) and fall (September to October) when the weather is pleasant, and the city is less crowded.
Q: Are gondola rides expensive?
A: Gondola rides in Venice could be considered pricey, especially since the amount of time spent on the boat is only 30 minutes. You cannot negotiate the price with the gondoliers, because the rates are actually set by the city of Venice. To cut down on the cost, consider sharing a gondola with other travelers. You can book a private gondola ride or a shared gondola ride on this booking site.
>> Read the full guide: How to Get a Gondola Ride in Venice
Q: Can I drink tap water in Venice?
A: Yes, tap water in Venice is safe to drink. Fun fact: there are over 100 water fountains scattered throughout the city that you can use to refill your water bottle, or splash water on your face during those hot summer days. Water fountain map can be found here.
Q: Are there any free attractions in Venice?
A: Yes, many attractions in Venice are free to explore, i.e. St. Mark's Square, Rialto Bridge, and the exteriors of many historic buildings. Plus, wandering through the streets and canals of Venice is an experience in itself and won't cost you anything!
Q: Can I visit the Venetian Islands in one day?
A: With an early start and some very strategic planning, it is definitely possible to visit the Venetian Islands in one day. But, for a slower pace, I would recommend a full separate day for visiting the islands, especially if you also want to explore Venice thoroughly.
Beautiful narrow streets, canals and bridges of Venice
Although 24 hours may seem limited, it is 100% possible to experience the true magic of Venice in just one full day! By planning your itinerary in advance and using this guide, you can make the most of your time in this stunning city built on water.
Buon viaggio!
Have a good trip!
More Venice, Italy planning guides:
How to Get a Gondola Ride in Venice
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How to Spend 24 Hours in Venice, Italy
