25 Best Day Trips from Venice, Italy

Venice with its iconic canals and historic charm, offers a unique starting point for a variety of day trips. 

Being based in Venice allows you to wake up surrounded by one of the most unique landscapes in the world (sure, you pay top dollar for it) and then venture out to discover the diversity of Italian culture, cuisine, and history.

Below I share my recommendations for the best day trips from Venice. I made sure there’s a nice combo of stunning islands in the Venetian lagoon, historic cities, scenic escapes into nature, foodie meccas, and even tossed some adventurous options in there!

For each destination I give you approximate distances and travel times by public transport and by road. These estimates are based on typical travel durations and distances. Verify current schedules and road conditions for precise planning.

Easy Day Trips from Venice

There are plenty of of quick and easy mini day trip options from Venice, all under an hour’s travel. Whether you’re eager to explore nearby islands or charming towns, there’s plenty to see close to the lagoon.

These mini trips are perfect for sprucing up any itinerary, letting you experience more of what this beautiful region has to offer without straying too far from Venice. You can take it easy and spend a leisurely day at one of the destinations or pack a few into your day.

Murano, Burano, and Torcello are just a short ferry ride away from each other and often combined into a day trip from Venice. For those who prefer to hit the road, consider visits to Treviso, Padua, and Vicenza. This trio of cultural gems is a mere 150 km round trip, easily doable in a day.

Murano

• Ferry: 17min from Venice Santa Lucia by vaporetto line #3.
• Drive: Not applicable as it’s an island.

Murano is renowned for its exquisite glassmaking, a tradition that dates back centuries. Watch skilled artisans mold hot glass into delicate artworks at local workshops.

Don’t miss the Murano Glass Museum, where you can explore the fascinating history and stunning exhibits.

Take the vaporetto for a scenic and straightforward trip; driving isn’t an option. Organized tours are also a great option and they let you combine your visit to Murano with visits to Burano and Tocello too.

Book your adventure:
Murano & Burano Islands Guided Small-Group Tour
Murano Glass Workshop and Walking Tour
Murano Glass Blowing demonstration
The Murano Glass Museum Admission Ticket

Burano

• Ferry: 45min with ferry changes via Murano by vaporetto.
• Drive: Not applicable as it’s an island.

Burano is best known for its vividly painted houses and intricate lace-making. The island is a riot of colors and every corner is photo-worthy. As you explore, be sure to try Bussolà cookies—a local delight.

Visit local lace shops to see artisans at work. They offer a glimpse into a painstaking craft, perfected over generations. You can bring some lace souvenirs back home.

You can easily reach Burano by vaporett and explore on foot, snapping countless photos of this little slice of chromatic heaven. Organized tours are also a great option and they let you combine your visit to Burano with visits to Murano and Tocello too.

Book your adventure:
Murano & Burano Islands Guided Small-Group Tour
Burano Walking Tour and Lace Making Demonstration

Torcello

• Ferry: 40min with a ferry transfer at Burano by vaporetto.
• Drive: Not applicable as it’s an island.

Torcello might not rival its neighbors in size, but its charm is undeniable.

Visit the Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta which houses awe-inspiring Byzantine mosaics that date back to the 7th century. Climbing the bell tower offers panoramic views over the Venetian Lagoon.

Torcello is accessible by a 40-minute ferry ride with a transfer at Burano. You can explore on your own or opt for a guided tour of the three islands; Murano, Burano and Torcello.

Book your adventure:
Murano, Burano & Torcello Full-Day Tour
Murano, Burano & Torcello Half-Day Tour
Private boat tour to Murano, Burano, Torcello

Lido

• Ferry: 30min by vaporetto line #14 from Venice.
• Drive: Not applicable as it’s an island.

Lido offers a charming contrast to Venice’s bustling canals, with its sandy beaches and natural reserves. Known for hosting the Venice Film Festival, this island blends glitz with laid-back appeal.

Enjoy some sunshine on the beach and strol along Gran Viale Santa Maria Elisabetta. You’ll discover plenty of quaint shops and cafes for a relaxing getaway.

Hop on the vaporetto—driving isn’t viable here—and soak in the sun-soaked charm of Lido. An organized tour feels unnecessary—simply let the shore guide you.

Book your adventure:
Round-Trip Boat Ticket
Full Day Venice Lido Bike Rental
Private boat tour in the Venice lagoon

Padova (Padua)

• Train: Approximately 25min.
• Drive: 45min / 40km.

Padua, or Padova as the Italians prefer, is just a stone’s throw from Venice and brimming with charm and history.

Known as a bastion of academia, it’s home to Italy’s second-oldest university, where none other than Galileo once held court. The city’s crowning jewel is the Scrovegni Chapel, renowned for its stunning 14th-century frescoes by Giotto, which famously predate the Renaissance.

Getting to Padova is a breeze—hop on a train for a swift 25-minute journey from Venice. Alternatively, a leisurely 40-minute drive will bring you to its historic gates.

My recommendation? Book this Venice to Padua Boat Cruise which takes you from Venice up the Brenta River stopping at gorgeous Venetian villas and drops you off in Padua in the afternoon. Then explore Padua on this Private Walking Tour and enjoy dinner in town before hopping on a train back to Venice.

Book your adventure:
Venice to Padua Boat Cruise
Padua Private Walking Tour

Treviso

• Train: Approximately 30min.
• Drive: 35min / 30km.

Treviso is a charming city with a quieter pace, making it the perfect escape from Venice’s bustling canals. Often dubbed Little Venice, this city is celebrated for its picturesque canals and relaxed atmosphere.

Treviso boasts remarkable medieval architecture, and lovers of Italian cuisine will be delighted to know it’s also the birthplace of tiramisù. It’s the best place to learn how to make this iconic desert so make sure to book this pasta & tiramisu cooking class in Treviso.

The Piazza dei Signori buzzes with local life, offering the perfect spot to sip a Prosecco while pondering whether you’ve discovered Italy’s best-kept secret. Explore the town on your own or join this Treviso walking tour.

Train travel from Venice is incredibly convenient, with a short 30-minute ride whisking you directly into Treviso. Driving takes about the same time, offering flexibility if you’re the type who likes to make spontaneous detours—but beware, you might fall for an impromptu wine-tasting en route!

Book your adventure:
Pasta & Tiramisu Cooking Class
Treviso Walking Tour

Vicenza

• Train: 45min.
• Drive: 50min / 70km.

A stone’s throw from Venice, Vicenza is famed for its UNESCO-listed Palladian villas and architecture.

Five hundred years ago, local dignitaries competed to build ever-grander palazzos along what was then the Roman decumanus, now known as Corso Palladio, named after the celebrated Renaissance architect Andrea Palladio.

Today, you can stroll along this pedestrian-friendly street, touted by 19th-century historian Cesare Cantù as the most elegant street in Europe.

Vicenza’s crown jewel is the Teatro Olimpico, a stunning theatre by Palladio with an entirely wooden, stucco, and plaster interior designed for perfect acoustics. It boasts the world’s oldest trompe l’oeil stage set.

Make sure venture into the countryside to explore the splendid Palladian villas. This e-bike self-guided tour includes entrance fees to many of the villas, including the remarkable La Rotonda and Palazzo Valmarana Braga.

Train travel from Venice will take about 45 minutes. Driving will carve out an hour but you’ll have the flexibility to visit the Palladian villa outside of town.

Book your adventure:
E-bike self-guided tour of Palladian Villas
Villa Valmarana ai Nani Admission Ticket

Day Trips from Venice for Nature Lovers

If you’re a nature lover yearning for stunning vistas and tranquil escapes, I’ve got you! From the towering peaks of the Dolomites to the serene waters of Lake Garda, there’s no shortage of breathtaking views to discover.

The Dolomites

• Train + Bus: Approximately 3h 30min.
• Drive: 2h 30min / 180km (to Cortina d’Ampezzo).

Known for their majestic peaks and serene lakes, a day trip from Venice to the Dolomites offers breathtaking views and fresh Alpine air.

The Dolomites are vast and deserve much more than just a day but if a day is all you’ve got, prioritize seeing the iconic jagged peaks of Tre Cime di Lavaredo.

Take in the crystal-clear waters of Lago di Braies or Lago di Missurina. Don’t miss out on visiting Cortina d’Ampezzo, a charming alpine town where you can soak up local culture amidst stunning mountain vistas.

An organized tour is the best way to maximize your time and experience these highlights without the stress of navigating on your own. Public transport is not viable on a day trip but renting a car is and will give you the most flexibility. Just make sure you’re up for the windy drive.

Best tours to the Dolomites from Venice

Tours from Venice provide expert guidance and transportation, ensuring you get a comprehensive taste of this awe-inspiring region in just one day.

Opt for this small group tour to Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Cortina d’Ampezzo and Lago di Misurina. While you’ll only scratch the surface, it’s a great introduction to a place you’ll surely want to revisit.

If you’re traveling with a group or if your budget allows it this private day tour will help you make the most out of one day. It’s a packed trip but you’ll see as much as possible in a day including Lago di Braies, Lago di Misurina, Cortina d’Ampezzo, Tre Cime di Lavaredo, and more.

Book your adventure:
Dolomites small group tour from Venice
Dolomites private day tour from Venice

Sirmione/Lake Garda

• Train + Bus: Approximately 2h 30min.
• Drive: 1h 30min / 150km.

Escape to Sirmione on Lake Garda for a taste of Italy’s lake district. Known for its relaxing spa waters and striking views, Sirmione offers a charming medieval vibe, complete with a stunning castle.

Make sure to explore the Grotte di Catullo and the Scaliger Castle, which offers breathtaking panoramas from its ramparts. Don’t miss a boat tour on Lake Garda. It’s a serene way to appreciate the lake’s expansive beauty.

Getting to Sirmione from Venice is about a two-hour drive. Alternatively, take a train to Desenzano del Garda followed by a short bus ride. Driving offers more flexibility, especially if you plan to explore Lake Garda further.

Book your boat tour:
Sirmione Sunset Boat Tour (45min)
Lake Garda Mini Cruise (25min)
Lake Garda Afternoon Cruise (4h)

Grotte del Caglieron

• Train + Bus: Approximately 2h 20min.
• Drive: 1h 40min / 85km.

Tucked away in the natural park reserve of Breda di Fregona, the Grotte del Caglieron is a relatively unknown gem offering an enchanting blend of nature and geology.

This natural formation is blend of gorges and caves with waterfalls and rock formations. It’s a mesmerizing sight, especially when sunlight filters down, creating magical patterns.

The wooden walkways and bridges let you explore the paths safely while enjoying the lush surroundings and cascading waters. At the end of the approximately 1km long path you’ll find an ancient water mill and restaurant.

The Caves of Caglieron by car are approximately 1.5-hour drive from Venice. Or opt for the train and bus combo toward Fregona. Driving is the best option as public transport options are limited.

Day Trips from Venice by Train

I swear by train travel in Italy. The city hoppers are efficient and often faster than driving.

Skip the expensive organized tours from Venice or the stress of finding parking. Instead, kick back, relax, and reserve your energy for exploring once you get there. There’s nothing like arriving fresh and ready for adventure.

Don’t forget to book your train tickets online to breeze past the queues. When you reach your destination, go on a local walking tour to immerse yourself in the city’s character and hidden spots.

Some of the cities below deserve more than just a day and I highly recommend staying overnight if you have the chance. I’ve suggested a hotel for you if that’s the case.

Verona

• Train: 1h 10min.
• Drive: 1h 30min / 115km.

Verona, famously known as the setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, is a city of romance and rich history.

Wander through streets lined with Roman and medieval architecture, and make sure to visit the Verona Arena, an impressive Roman amphitheater still hosting concerts and operas today. Don’t miss Juliet’s House and balcony for a nod to the famous love story, though rubbing the statue for luck is optional.

Also, explore Piazza delle Erbe, where a lively market and historic buildings come together for a vibrant atmosphere.

Verona is easily accessible by train, just over an hour from Venice. If you’re like me and crave an easy, no-parking-hassle day, public transport is your friend here.

Book your adventure:
Valpolicella Winries & Verona Tour from Venice
Verona walking tour
Verona Card with priority Arena ticket
Arena di Verona guided tour

Stay at: Hotel Relais Balcone di Giulietta 4*

Bologna

• Train: 1h 25min.
• Drive: 1h 50min / 150km.

Bologna is a haven for food lovers and culture seekers alike. Known as La Grassa (The Fat One) for its culinary richness, the city offers delicious local treats like tagliatelle al ragù and mortadella.

Climb the Asinelli Tower for panoramic views or explore Piazza Maggiore, home to historic sites like the Basilica di San Petronio. The University of Bologna, the world’s oldest, adds a vibrant student energy to the town.

Traveling from Venice by train takes about an hour and a half, making it convenient for indulging in a day of food and exploring. Opt for public transport to immerse yourself in Bologna’s charm without a car holding you back.

Book your adventure:
Bologna food tour
Porticoes & Madonna di San Luca tour
San Luca Express ticket
Asinelli Tower ticket with audio guide
Archiginnasio visit with audio guide

Stay at: Hotel Metropolitan 4*

Chioggia

• Traub: Approximately 1h 15min.
• Drive: 1h / 55km.

Often dubbed a Mini Venice, Chioggia offers a calmer atmosphere with beautiful canals best explored by a traditional Topa boat.

Stroll along Corso del Popolo, the main street, for a glimpse of local life, and don’t miss the chance to try fresh seafood right from the market. San Domenico Church, holding artworks by Carpaccio, adds a cultural touch to your visit.

The train to Chioggia is the easiest option but you can also reach Chioggia via a scenic ferry and bus ride via Lido, a perfect choice if you enjoy the water. Driving is also an option or opt for this Private Day Tour to Chioggia and Ferrara from Venice

Book your adventure:
Chioggia Topa boat tour
Chioggia and Ferrara from Venice

Florence

• Train: 2h 05min.
• Drive: 3h / 260km.

Marvel at the grandeur of the Duomo with its iconic dome, or gaze at masterpieces in the Uffizi Gallery. Stroll Ponte Vecchio, a bridge lined with sparkling jewelry shops, and visit Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia.

The train ride from Venice takes about two hours and offers a stress-free way to tackle Florence’s bustling streets, letting you focus on the art and gelato.

Book your adventure:
Florence City Walking Tour
Florence Walking Tour with Uffizi and Accademia
Galleria dell’Accademia Tour & Tickets

Milan

• Train: 2h 30min.
• Drive: 3h / 270km.

Milan blends historic charm with bustling modernity and is renowned for its fashion scene and stunning architecture.

The magnificent Duomo di Milano is a must-see, while the Last Supper at Santa Maria delle Grazie offers an unforgettable art experience. Enjoy shopping in the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, see the modern architecture at Gae Aulenti, browse art at the Pinnacoteca di Brera or unwind in Sempione Park.

The two-and-a-half-hour train journey from Venice is a comfortable and efficient way to reach Milan’s vibrant heart without the stress of city driving. Once there, Milan has an efficient network of public busses, trams and metro.

Book your adventure:
Duomo di Milano guided tour
Last Supper & Duomo tour
Vintage tram tour (includes Last Supper tickets)
Milan walking tour

Stay at: Matilde Boutique Hotel 4*

Trieste

• Train: 2h.
• Drive: 1h 50min / 160km.

Trieste, perched on the border with Slovenia, offers a fascinating mix of cultures reflected in its architecture and cuisine. I’ve grown up nearby and seen this city evolve from a sleepy old town into a buzzing and cool hub.

Stroll the grand Piazza Unità d’Italia, Europe’s largest sea-facing square, and explore the historic Castello di Miramare for beautiful views over the Adriatic Sea. Don’t miss trying local Illy coffee, a nod to the city’s renowned coffee culture.

The train from Venice takes around two hours, perfect for a day of exploring this multicultural hub. Use public transport to easily navigate Trieste’s layered history and vibrant streets.

Book your tour:
Trieste walking Tour
Trieste Bus Tour

Brescia

• Train: 2h.
• Drive: 2h 20min / 190km.

Brescia may not be on every traveler’s list, but it’s a treasure trove of history waiting to be uncovered.

Known for its Roman ruins, the Capitolium of Ancient Brixia offers a glimpse into the past. Stroll through Piazza della Loggia, where Renaissance architecture frames your view.

A two-hour train ride from Venice makes Brescia an easy day trip. I suggest skipping the car and the hassle of parking.

My advice? Continue your trip to Franciacorta wine region and Lake Iseo for some scenery and wine tasting at a local winery.

Book your walking tour:
Brescia Walking Tour

Best Day Trips from Venice for Foodies

Italy is a paradise for foodies, and Venice offers the perfect launchpad to explore the culinary treasures nearby.

From the sparkling Prosecco hills to the rich reds of Valpolicella, and the irresistible cheese and cured meats of Parma and Modena, there’s a delicious adventure just a short ride away.

Each destination offers a sumptuous slice of Italian culinary heritage, perfect for any foodie seeking an authentic taste journey just a stone’s throw from Venice.

Pack your appetite and get ready to savor the best day trips from Venice designed for those who live to eat and love to explore.

Prosecco Region (Conegliano)

• Train: 1h to Conegliano + 1h bus to Valdobbiadene
• Drive: 1h / 70km to Conegliano or Valdobbiadene

Dive into the Prosecco region, known for its rolling hills, exquisite bubbly wine, and panoramic vineyard views.

Start your trip with a visit to local cantinas where you can sample DOCG Prosecco, and get a peek into the meticulous production process of this delicious sparkling wine.

Don’t miss the chance to stroll the Strada del Vino and explore charming villages among the vineyards.

From Venice, it’s a straightforward one-hour drive to Conegliano, or you can catch a train if you’d rather sit back and admire the countryside.

My advice? Opt for this organized tour to hit multiple vineyards and leave the logistics to the professionals, ensuring a bubbly-filled day without driving concerns.

Book your tour:
Prosecco Hills Tour & Tasting from Venice

Valpolicella

• Train + Bus: Approximately 1h 30min.
• Drive: 1h 20min / 120km.

Valpolicella with its lush vineyards and world-class red wines like Amarone and Ripasso is nestled in the hills near Verona. This region is heaven for red wine enthusiasts.

Visit family-owned wineries where you’ll be warmly welcomed and learn the art of crafting these robust wines. Don’t forget to explore the beautiful town of Negrar for a true taste of local life.

Driving from Venice takes about 90 minutes, offering scenic routes perfect for wine indie enthusiasts. Alternatively, hop on a train to Verona and switch to a local bus.

My advice? Join this guided tour, which ensures you savor each glass without worry and gain insights from knowledgeable winemakers. Alternatively, take the train to Verona and join this Wine Tasting after exploring the city of romance.

Book your tour:
Valpolicella & Verona Tour from Venice
Valpolicella Wine Tasting from Verona

Franciacorta

• Train + Bus: 2h 30min.
• Drive: 2h / 190km.

Franciacorta, Italy’s answer to Champagne, serves sparkling wines bursting with flavor and finesse. The region’s gentle hills between Brescia and Iseo Lake create a perfect backdrop for vineyard tours and tastings.

Make sure to do a wine tasting and try the exquisite Franciacorta DOCG sparkling wines and pair them with local delights like Grana Padano and cured meats.

From Venice, reaching Franciacorta is a two-hour train ride to Brescia, plus a quick bus trip to the vineyards. Public transport is effortless and you get to indulge in a couple of glasses of wine without worry. By car, it’s a picturesque two-hour, 190km drive.

My advice? Take the train and explore Brescia before you continue by bus to Iseo. Here you can combine wine tasting with stunning lake views.

Book your tour:
Wine Tasting with optional lunch

Parma

• Train: 2h 30min.
• Drive: 3h / 230km.

Sink your teeth into Parma’s famous for its parmesan cheese and prosciutto di Parma.

Tour a parmesan cheese factory to witness the magic of transforming milk into this hard, flavorful cheese. And, taste the silky prosciutto at local producers, where the delicate, savory slices melt in your mouth.

During your day trip to Parma, take time to explore the city’s rich history and stunning architecture. The Cathedral, Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi, and Teatro Regio are especially noteworthy.

Parma is roughly two and a half hours from Venice by train, making it perfect for a day dedicated to culinary indulgence. While a car could offer flexibility, organized food tours will maximize your experience, spinning you through Parma’s tastiest traditions.

My advice? Since you’ll be near Modena, Bologna, and Reggio Emilia, consider including them in your itinerary.

Book your tour:
Parma walking food tour

Modena

• Train: 2h 25min.
• Drive: 2h 40min / 210km.

Modena, a city synonymous with traditional balsamic vinegar, offers more than just this liquid gold.

Visit an acetaia to explore the aging process and taste the rich, complex vinegar drizzled over parmesan or fresh strawberries. Modena also delights with local specialties like tortellini and gnocco fritto.

The city is packed with interesting architecture, the UNESCO-listed Piazza Grande and some fantastic museums. If you’re a lover of art then be sure to check out the 18th Century Palace Museum which contains pieces by Tintoretto and Correggio and Bernini.

Travel by train in about two hours and twenty-five minutes from Venice, providing you a hassle-free journey into a world of flavor. Driving is feasible, but a guided tour is recommended to ensure you don’t miss any culinary hidden gems.

My advice? Since you’ll be near Parm, Bologna, and Reggio Emilia, consider including them in your itinerary.

Book your tour:
Modena walking tour
Balsamic Vinegar Tour
Home Cooking Experience

Reggio Emilia

• Train: 2h 45min.
• Drive: 2h 45min / 220km.

Reggio Emilia may not immediately ring a bell, but its culinary gifts will linger on your taste buds.

Known for inventing Parmigiano Reggiano, you must see a cheese production to truly appreciate this iconic staple. The charming piazzas also serve traditional dishes like erbazzone and cappelletti in brodo.

Explore Reggio Emilia’s historic center to admire its medieval architecture, including the stunning Cathedral with a Roman mosaic and the Basilica of San Prospero. Art lovers can visit the Maramotti Collection, featuring contemporary art and founded by fashion magnate Max Mara.

A two-hour train ride from Venice lands you in the midst of culinary wonder, a perfect setting for foodies to explore. Whether driving or hopping on a train, ensure you plan for plenty of food stops. Join a food tour to dive deeper into the local food culture.

My advice? Since you’ll be near Modena, Bologna, and Parma, consider including them in your itinerary.

Book your tour:
Emilia Flavors and Local Wines Tour

Adventure Day Trips from Venice

Gardaland

• Train + Bus: Approximately 2h 10min.
• Drive: 1h 50min / 150km.

Get your adrenaline pumping at Gardaland, Italy’s largest amusement park located on the shores of Lake Garda. Plus, it has it’s own SEA LIFE Aquarium.

This park offers a wide array of rides and is famous for heart-pounding roller coasters like the Raptor and Oblivion and the heart-attack-inducing Space Vertigo.

For family-friendly fun check out the Magic House ride, Peppa Pig Land or the enchanting Fantasy Kingdom, where you’ll meet Prezzemolo, the park’s dragon mascot, who adds an element of magic for the kids.

Reach Gardaland with about a two-hour drive from Venice or hop on a train to Peschiera del Garda. From there, a convenient shuttle bus takes you straight to the park gates.

You can opt to only visit Gardaland theme park or combine it with Sea Life Aquarium. There is even an option for a two-day ticket if you’re committed to all the rides!

Book your tickets:
Gardaland Entry Ticket
Sea Life Aquarium tickets
Gardaland + Sea Life trickets

Mirabilandia

• Train + Bus: Approximately 2h 40min.
• Drive: 2h 30min / 180km.

For an adventure by the coast, head to Mirabilandia near Ravenna, renowned for thrilling attractions like the Katun inverted coaster and the high-speed iSpeed.

Families will love Dinoland, filled with attractions perfect for younger adventurers. Don’t forget to pack your swimsuit if you plan to enjoy a splash at Mirabeach, the park’s companion water park offering a fun escape during warmer months.

A 2.5-hour drive from Venice is the quickest way to reach Mirabilandia, though taking a train to Ravenna followed by a bus provides a relaxed alternative.

Book your adventure:
Mirabilandia Entry Ticket

Where to stay in Venice

If it’s your first time in Venice, San Marco is the best place to stay. This district is central and close to most of the major attractions. You’ll be right in the heart of the action with all the Venice things to do at your doorstep.

For a more authentic Italian experience or if you’re a returning visitor, consider staying in Cannaregio or Dorsoduro. These areas are less touristy, more affordable, and offer a true taste of Venetian life.

If you plan on catching the train often then Santa Lucia and Cannaregio close to the train station are best base for you.

Related: Where to stay in Venice

Getting to Venice

By Air: Venice is served by Marco Polo Airport or the Treviso Airport slightly further. Be sure to book your airport shuttle in advance

By train: If you’re arriving by train, make sure you get off at Venice Santa Lucia station—not Mestre, unless you have a connection. From Santa Lucia, it’s about a 30-minute walk to St. Mark’s Square, or you can take a vaporetto (water bus).

By car: If you’re traveling by car be prepared for hefty parking fees. You’ll need to leave your car in Santa Lucia and walk or take the Vaporetto to town.

Getting around Venice

By Foot: My favorite way to explore Venice is on foot. This compact city invites you to wander through its beautiful streets. Nothing is more than a 30-40 minute walk from St. Mark’s Square. If you want a guided experience, join a walking tour to get a feel for the city.

By Vaporetto: If strolling isn’t your style, hop on a vaporetto. A single ticket lasts 75 minutes, but if you plan to use it more, a day ticket is the way to go.

Travel Light: A word to the wise—pack light. Venice has no taxis or public land transport; it’s all about boats and walking. Lugging hefty bags over countless bridges (up the stairs, down the stairs) isn’t fun. A backpack will be your best friend here.

Best time to visit Venice

The ideal time to visit Venice is a sunny day in late winter or early spring when the crowds are manageable, and the weather is pleasant.

Spring and autumn are the busiest—and priciest—seasons. Summer brings heat waves and canal odors that can be overwhelming.

If you don’t mind the cold, winter in Venice is a special time with holiday decorations and the famous Venice Carnival. Just keep an eye on the rain forecast.

Related: Venice in winter

How many days in Venice?

Venice highlights can be visited in just one action-packed day. Staying a night or two will let you explore deeper, get a feel for the town, linger over aperitivos and visit some of the surrounding islands, like the stunning Murano and Burano islands.

If you plan on exploring northern Italy on day trips from Venice, stay at least two nights and add another one for every day trip you’d like to do.

Is Venice worth visiting?

Venice, with its labyrinth of canals, historic buildings, and vibrant culture is a must-visit. Whether you’re drifting along the canals in a gondola, marveling at Renaissance art, or savoring Venetian cuisine, Venice isn’t a city you’ll soon forget.