Travel across the Atlantic to Venice, Italy. This charming city on a lagoon could take days to explore. So, you might be wondering, Is one day enough for Venice? It most certainly is!
Wandering Venice is just like stepping into another world. When you see the Grand Canal for the first time, it will be forever engraved in your memory. Venice is considered one of the most beautiful and romantic cities in Italy. With its narrow canals, colorful streets, fairytale gondolas rides, and balconies, it is an extremely popular destination. From a rental car, you can easily reach the Venice Terminal, but keep in mind that the center of Venice is entirely pedestrian.
If you are looking for a one-day itinerary to Venice, this post is for you. In this guide, we will take you to explore all of the must-see points of interest if you only have one day in Venice.
01 Start at the Rialto Bridge
Rialto Bridge is one of the only four bridges that span the Grand Canal, and it is also the oldest. It is the most famous bridge in Venice, with only good reason. The white facade is attention-grabbing, and it boasts beautiful views of the city. Explore the surroundings of the bridge along with the cute little souvenir shops on the actual bridge. You can also sit by the Grand Canal and get an Insta-worthy shot. You can even check out the Rialto Market nearby for all the delicious Italian produce on offer. Starting your one day trip from here will give you a perfect head.
02 St. Mark’s Square
Next head to the most famous and visited location in Venice, Saint Mark’s Square, which is also considered the “heart” of Venice and is most visited by tourists. Piazza San Marco, known in English as Saint Mark’s Square, is the main public square of Venice. It is one of the busiest, most iconic squares in the world. The square is rich in history and is beautiful to walk around it, taking in the atmosphere. You can visit the church, clock tower, museums and most of the buildings in Piazza San Marco here.
Located in Saint Mark’s Square is Caffe Florian, one of the oldest cafes in Venice, which is worth checking.
03 Saint Mark’s Basilica
Once you’re done exploring Saint Mark’s Square, right there in the piazza is St. Mark’s Basilica- the icon of Venice. Entry in this landmark is free, and it is probably the most famous church in Venice. Admire the 8,000 square meters of mosaic work inside, which took about 800 years to complete, and their effect today is still breathtakingly beautiful. Built-in the Byzantine style, this cathedral is so different and recognizable compared to other churches in Italy. There are a few other museums and Churches in the square that you can buy a pass for.
04 Doge’s Palace
St. Mark’s Basilica next door, continue with a tour of Doge’s Palace. This dramatic and exquisite building was the residence of the Doge of Venice and was built in 810. Admire the historical decor, structures, and learn about Venice’s unique history. Even without an inside tour, you can be amazed at the architecture on the outside. With pre-booked online tickets, you can skip the queues.
05 Take A Gondola Ride
No Venice one day itinerary would be complete without a gondola ride. Gondolas can be snapped up all along the Grand Canal, and a ride on one will be an unforgettable bucket list experience for everyone. I mean, where else in the world are you going to ride a gondola down the most famous canal in the world? To try to get a cheaper ride, try to get it from St. Mark’s square if you can.
Where to Shop
While walking at St. Mark’s square, you will see a plethora of street vendors lining the waterfront. There are plenty of options for shopping local and supporting the artisans of Venice, Italy. As you explore and walk the narrow streets, you will see quaint shops and boutiques.
Where and What to Eat
Venice is an incredibly beautiful city, one of those places in the world everybody should visit at least once in life. With welcoming more than 30 million tourists per year, the question remains where to eat in Venice? There are many restaurants, bakeries, and waterfront eateries scattered throughout Saint Mark’s Square. Strolled into the narrow streets along the canals, and devoured a delicious Italian pastry. Some of the best places to eat in Venice are listed below.
- Al Timon: serves great Cichetti and cheap Spritz
- Al Merca: for traditional Cichetti
- Pizza La Perla: for the best pizza in Venice
- Trattoria da Jonny: serves traditional Venetian dishes
- ne Bar Angio: Good food, gluten-free pizza, local wine
Let’s be fair. One day isn’t ideal to explore any major world city, especially when you are in one of Europe’s most famous and romantic destinations. So, you can extend your trip to explore the rest of Venice or can take other small trips from Venice.