48 hours in Venice: How to spend 2 days in Venice

So you’ve decided – you want to spend 48 hours in Venice in Italy. Perfect choice! The capital of northern Italy’s Veneto region is a place like no other. A magical city made up of 118 islands is one of the most romantic cities in the world. “The City of Canals” is also an extraordinary architectural masterpiece. If you plan to spend a weekend in Venice and you are wondering what are the best places to visit in Venice, you are in the right place. Read this detailed guide – it will show you how to see Venice in 2 days.

Venice is a walkable city, and many of its attractions are close to each other.

 

2 days in Venice itinerary

Choosing the best things to do in Venice in 2 days was not an easy task. We have cherry-picked some famous attractions, and this is how we recommend you plan your 2 days in Venice itinerary. And yes – you can easily cover the top attractions during 48 hours in Venice.

Venice is perhaps the most famous for its gorgeous canals, gondolas and beautiful architecture. However, there is more to Venice than that. Did you know Venice was once an independent Byzantine province in the 10^th century?

 

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2 days in Venice itinerary – Day 1

Our in-depth 2 days in Venice itinerary will take you through the best things to do in Venice. You will spend your first 48 hours in Venice exploring the famous St. Mark’s district and the nearby sights. In these areas, you will find plenty of famous attractions to keep you occupied for a day.

HOW TO AVOID CROWDS:

As you probably know, Venice is one of the most visited cities in Italy – more than 20 million people come here every year. Overtourism is a big issue because many are only day trippers or arrive on cruise ships for a day. The best way to enjoy Venice is to start early in the morning before thousands of tourists flood this small city. Because of that, we recommend you start exploring the streets as early as possible.

St Mark’s Square

 

Start your day off with breakfast at one of the pasty shops called pasticcerias. These special shops don’t sell bread but pastries and little sweets. There are many to choose from, but you can try Pasticceria Marchini Time or Rosa Salva – San Marco. Both pastry shops are close to the Piazza San Marco and have great reviews. After that, find the Piazza San Marco – one of the must-see places in the city.

 

1. Piazza San Marco

Piazza San Marco is one of the top sights in Venice.

 

One of the first attractions you should head to is St Mark’s Square, and there is a reason for that. The locals call this large lagoon-facing square the Piazza San Marco. It dates back to the 12th century and has witnessed countless Carnival festivals and political activities.

You are right to think that St Mark’s Square is the largest and most famous square in the city. The main public square in Venice is home to famous attractions, such as St. Mark Basilica and the Campanile. Because of that, visiting St Mark’s Square is one of the best things to do in Venice in 2 days.

Tourists also flock here in their thousands because this beautiful square is one of the greatest squares in the world. Piazza San Marco has many elegant historic buildings, stylish shops and pricey cafes. You can also find the Museo Correr with many beautiful artworks, such as Giovanni Bellini’s Pieta. There is also the Torre dell’Orologio on the north side of the square. This clock tower with hidden clockwork figures dates back to the 15th century. It has a large Astronomical Clock and is a masterpiece of technology.

 

FUN FACT:

Did you know that St Mark’s Square is the only piazza in the city? The locals call all other squares “campo”.

 

St Mark’s Square is a place where everybody gathers. Napoleon described Piazza San Marco as the “most elegant drawing room in Europe.” 

 

Three sides of Piazza San Marco, framed in arcades, are home to museums, expensive restaurants and shops. These arcades were once homes and offices of the officers during the Republic of Venice. Today you can also find here the Caffè Florian – one of the most famous places in the city. But do not forget – one of Italy’s oldest and most popular coffee rooms comes at a price.

TIP:

If high-priced restaurants are not for you, we recommend walking away from this iconic square. Find some good value eating places just a few streets away from St Mark’s Square. Also, do not forget that St Mark’s Square gets very crowded after 10 am.

 

2. St. Mark’s Basilica

If you want to soak up Venice’s rich past, St. Mark’s Basilica on St. Mark’s Square is one of the best places to visit when spending 48 hours in Venice. This beautiful cathedral church is the most famous religious building in Venice.

St. Mark’s Basilica is one of the greatest buildings in Europe because it blends the decorative styles of East and West. The Basilica di San Marco dates back to the 9th century AD. It has marble floors, beautiful artworks and golden mosaics decorated over the centuries.

Visiting St. Mark’s Basilica is one of the best things to do in Venice in 2 days because this famous church is a perfect example of Italo-Byzantine architecture. St. Mark’s Basilica also houses the remnants of St. Mark the Evangelist.

If you do not know, this cathedral is one of the top attractions in the city because it has ornate details. St. Mark’s Basilica has over 8,000 square meters (86,000 square feet) of mosaics. The locals added them to the cathedral over 8 centuries.

 

FUN FACT:

Did you know St. Mark’s Basilica was once the Doge’s private chapel?

 

Did you know that the four bronze horses that guard the entrance come from Constantinople? These horses are, however, replicas – the originals are inside the Basilica’s museum on the first floor.

 

What to see in St Mark’s Basilica:

• Saint Mark’s body, housed in the altar
• a Byzantine alter piece Pala d’Oro. The Pala d’Oro, made of 250 panels, is undoubtedly the most valuable treasure of San Marco. The jewel-spangled gold altarpiece has thousands of emeralds, amethysts, pearls and other gemstones.
• Ascension Dome: a mosaic of Chris in Glory decorating the central dome, dating back to the 13th century.
• The roof terrace which offers some of the best views in Venice

 

Yes, you are right – St. Mark’s Basilica is one of the most important religious buildings in Northern Italy. Even though the Basilica di San Marco is not the largest church in the world, it will leave you speechless. Because of that, St. Mark’s Basilica must be on your 2 days in Venice itinerary.

 

St Mark’s Basilica – roof terrace

There are countless places for epic views in Venice. However, the roof terrace of St. Mark’s Basilica offers some of the best vistas without crowds. The views from the roof terrace don’t come for free, though. The entry ticket to the museum with the original bronze horses from Constantinople includes a visit to the terrace. The roof terrace of St. Mark’s Basilica offers gorgeous views of some of the top attractions in Venice. Therefore, it’s one of the best things to do in Venice in 2 days.

 

GOOD TO KNOW:

• The opening times of St Mark’s Basilica are 9.30 am – 5 pm from Monday to Saturday. It is possible to visit the cathedral on Sunday from 2 pm. The museum Loggia dei Cavalli is open on Sundays only between 9.30 am and 2 pm.
• The sacred Basilica di San Marco is free to enter. However, the dress code applies- cover your knees and shoulders.
• If you want to see the Pala d’Oro you need to pay 5 euros. The entry to the museum – Loggia dei Cavalli and its terrace costs 7 euros.
• You can store your luggage and backpacks at the Ateneo San Basso Left Luggage office. It’s at Piazzetta dei Leoncini – in front of the Gate of Flowers.
• If you want to visit the museum inside the basilica, you have to pay an entry fee.
• You cannot take pictures inside the basilica.

TIP:

If you do not want to waste a lot of time in a long queue, arrive before the basilica opens (at 9 am). For the best experience, we recommend you book your entrance ticket online. Alternatively, buy skip-the-line tickets for 3-hour tours for St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace.

 

 

3. Piazzetta San Marco

Your next stop should be another beautiful place – the Piazzetta San Marco. You can find it between the Doge’s Palace and the Biblioteca Marciana. Yes, you got that right, the Piazzetta San Marco is an extension of St. Mark’s Square. This central meeting place for both locals and tourists runs vertically between the Piazza San Marco and the waterfront of St Mark’s Basin.

Besides, the Piazzetta San Marco offers beautiful views of the nearby Isola di San Giorgio Maggiore. This small square with two granite columns with statues of St. Theodore and the two lions of St. Mark in front of the lagoon is a must when you spend 2 days in Venice.

 

4. Doge’s Palace

Palazzo Ducale is by far one of the top Venice attractions. The appearance of the palace you can see today is the work of the 14th and early 15th centuries.

 

You cannot spend 48 hours in Venice without visiting the Doge’s Palace. This extraordinary palace built with pale pink Veronese marble and white Istrian stone (arcades) dates back to the 9th century. It has a Venetian Gothic style and is one of the most significant historical sites in the city.

 

The Doge’s palace, with its geometrically patterned façade, changes colour throughout the day depending on the sunlight.

 

If you do not know, the Doge’s Palace served as the residence for the Doge. It was also once home to the Venetian Parliament, a prison and the city’s court. Today, this gorgeous building is a fascinating museum. You can explore its opulent apartments, richly decorated chambers and hall. They have an excessive collection of artworks. One of the highlights is Jacopo and Domenico Tintoretto’s Paradise. It is one of the world’s largest paintings in the Sala del Maggior Consiglio.

 

The Doge’s Palace is one of the best places to visit in Venice if you want to discover the history and culture of the Venetian civilization. When you visit this impressive art museum, you can learn more about the early doges, the architecture, the prisons and the place. You can also see artworks by famous artists such as Titian, Veronese, Tiepolo or Tintoretto. Because of that, visiting the Doge’s Palace is one of the best things to do in Venice in 2 days.

 

TIP:

We highly recommend you join a guided tour to learn more about the history of this beautiful site.

 

FUN FACT:

Did you know Casanova was once imprisoned here? He managed to escape from the Doge’s palace through a hole in the roof.

 

GOOD TO KNOW:

The Doge’s Palace is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the city. Because of that, expect long lines here. To make the most of your visit, arrive right when the Doge’s palace opens. Book your tickets in advance or visit on a guided tour.

The Doge’s Palace is open every day from 9 am until 7 pm (11 pm on Fridays and Saturdays from May until September). If you visit it during the low season, the palace closes at 6 pm. There are various tickets to choose from – starting from 25 euros for an adult. You can visit the Doge’s Palace on a city pass or purchase one of the combined tickets. You do not need to buy a ticket to the Doge’s Palace if you have the Venice City Pass. However, you can visit it only between 12 noon and 6 pm.

 

 

5. The Bridge of Sighs, Venice

Did you know there are 391 bridges spanning the canals in Venice? The Bridge of Sighs arching high above the Rio del Palazzo Canal is one of them. You can find this famous historic landmark only a short walk from St Mark’s Square. Walk past the façade of the Doge’s Palace (facing the Venetian Lagoon) and get onto the first bridge on the left-hand side. The locals refer to it as Ponte dei Sospiri.

Everyone knows that Venice has a nickname the “Floating City”, and its buildings seem to be rising straight from the water. This gorgeous city is made up of 121 tiny islands linked by bridges. One of the most famous bridges in the city is the Bridge of Sighs, and you need to see it when you spend 48 hours in Venice.

FUN FACT:

The Bridge of Sighs. “Legend has it that if two lovers kiss on a gondola under the bridge, they will be granted eternal bliss.”

Did you know that, throughout its long history, the Bridge of Sighs has been associated with romance? However, that was a mistaken belief. This iconic bridge connects the Doge’s Palace (once the home of the court of justice) with the damp prison.

It is hard to believe that this bridge, built of limestone, took its name from the sighs of prisoners being led to trial. In fact, the view from this small covered bridge was the last view of the city that the prisoners saw before their imprisonment.

Seeing the enclosed Bridge of Sighs is one of the best things to do in Venice in 2 days because this decorative bridge is one of the top attractions in the city. The Bridge of Sighs, lined with sculptures of happy and sad faces, is one of the most photographed sights in the city. Make sure you do not miss it when you spend a weekend in Venice.

 

The Bridge of Sighs, with windows and stone bars, was used to transport the prisoners from the courtroom to the prison. Today, it is one of the most romantic landmarks in the city.

 

GOOD TO KNOW:

Did you know the Bridge of Sighs is the only enclosed bridge in Venice? You can walk over it only from the Doge’s Palace. To do that, you need to book the “Secret Itineraries” tour.

TIP:

Visit the famous Bridge of Sighs early in the morning. It’s the only time when you can experience this architectural marvel without hordes of tourists. Hence, wake up very early.

 

6. Explore small streets in Venice

After your lunch, we recommend you explore small streets in Venice. Wander around the streets and get lost in a maze of narrow streets and hidden alleys. Crisscross canals on small bridges and pay attention to gorgeous architecture. Chances are that you will get lost, but it is a part of the charm of this city.

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Find a bridge on a quiet canal and watch the world go by. Also, the majority of restaurants near St. Mark’s Square are overpriced. Instead, avoid tourist traps and explore small streets further away from this famous square. You can find more places to eat well and cheaply just a 5-minute walk from St. Mark’s Square.

 

7. Gondola ride in Venice

Is the trip to the city of Canals complete without a gondola ride? Well, probably not. A gondola ride needs to be on your 2 days in Venice itinerary because it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that cannot be replicated anywhere else. These iconic custom-made long slim boats are ideal for shallow canals. Besides, gondolas have been a part of Venice for many centuries. They are the most authentic way to experience the city.

 

FUN FACT:

Did you know that according to the law from the 16th century, all gondolas should be black? It is because it should stop people from outdoing each other.

 

It is hard to believe that Venice was home to up to 10,000 gondolas in the 17th and 18th centuries. Today, there are about 400 licensed gondoliers in the city. The channels near St Mark’s Square and the Rialto Bridge are usually very crowded. As a result, a gondola ride is often let-down for visitors.

GOOD TO KNOW:

The city of Venice sets the official rates for a gondola ride. For that reason, they are not negotiable with a gondolier. With this in mind, the cost is €80 for 25- 30 minutes in the daytime and €120 for the nighttime rate (after 7 pm). The price is for a boat, not per person.

 

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However, if you want to experience this unique way to see the city, find a quieter canal. Avoid any canal near St Mark’s Square and the Rialto Bridge, as these channels get very busy during the day. Instead, board a gondola in one of the less congested neighbourhoods, such as Dorsoduro. If you don’t mind sharing a gondola with others, you can save a lot of money (a gondola has space for six people).

 

 

8. St Mark’s Campanile

Looking for the best views of Venice? Visit St Mark’s Campanile in the late afternoon of the first day in Venice to avoid the crowds. This impressive bell tower is on St. Mark’s Square. It lies just a few metres from the Basilica di San Marco. The locals call it the Campanile di San Marco. It is one of the top attractions in Venice.

Probably you do not know, but this iconic bell tower has suffered numerous damages (fire, earthquakes, and lightning) over the centuries. In fact, the bell tower you can see today dates back to 1912. The locals built a copy of the 16th-century brick tower after it collapsed in the early 20th century. Nowadays, almost 99 metres (323 ft) tall St Mark’s Campanile is one of the most recognizable symbols of Venice.

FUN FACT:

The citizens of Venice built the replica of the original Campanile from the 16th century exactly a millennium after the foundations of the original tower were laid.

 

Taking an elevator to St Mark’s Campanile is one of the best things to do in Venice in 2 days because it offers the best city views. From the top of the tallest structure in the city, you can see 360-degree panoramic views of Venice. Also, this bell tower is famous because Italian astronomer Galileo Galilei demonstrated his telescope to the Doge.

The Bell Tower with a golden statue of the Angel Gabriel was once a lighthouse in Venice. Today St Mark’s Campanile is one of the most popular attractions in the city because it offers breathtaking views from the top. /48 hours in Venice

 

GOOD TO KNOW:

St. Mark’s Bell Tower is open every day. Its opening hours vary during the year. You may explore the Bell Tower during the main season (16th April – 30th September) from 9.30 am to 9 pm. If you visit from 1st to 27th October you can take the elevator from 9.30 am – 6 pm. The last admission to the bell tower is at 4.30 pm if you come between 28th October and 31st March. However, the last entry to the bell tower is at 4.45 pm between 1st and 15th of April. Also, do not forget that the bell tower is not open if the weather is bad (fog, strong wind). The price for touring St Mark’s Bell Tower is 12 euros (as of October 2023).

TIP:

Due to the limited capacity of the lift, the Bell Tower attracts long queues in the high season. To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning or late in the evening. To save time, book the skip-the-line tickets online and explore the tower at a specific time. This is available only during the peak season.

 

 

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2 days in Venice itinerary – Day 2

You will spend your first 48 hours in Venice exploring St. Mark’s Square, Doge’s Palace, and also the attractions nearby. On your second day, you will explore the Grand Canal, Rialto Bridge and other famous attractions close by. You can walk to most places itself. After that, you will take a ride on a water bus to Burano and Murano. You can’t miss them during your 2 days in Venice. Again, we recommend you wake up early to beat the crowds on your second day in Venice.

 

9. Grand Canal, Venice

It is easy to see why tourists put the Grand Canal high on their bucket list when they spend 48 hours in Venice. The Grand Canal is the main canal sweeping through the heart of Venice. It has been a vital waterway for hundreds of years. This giant “S” connects St. Mark’s Square and the rail station on the mainland.

DID YOU KNOW?

The Grand Canal, running through the centre of Venice, is more than 3 km (2 miles) long. It has an average depth of 5 metres (17 feet) and is between 30 and 70 metres (100 and 225 ft) wide.

 

The Grand Canal is one of the best places to visit in Venice in 2 days because this major water-traffic corridor is one of the most photogenic places in the city. Gorgeous palaces demonstrate the wealth of the Republic of Venice. Churches, elegant Venetian palaces and other beautiful buildings face the water line of the Grand Canal. Many of these 170 buildings date back to the period between the 13th and the 18th centuries.

The Grand Canal at night.

 

GOOD TO KNOW:

The best way to view the Grand Canal is from a vaporetto (water bus) or a gondola. Whether you want to take the typical Venetian gondola, water taxi or the least expensive Vaporetto (water bus), the choice is yours.

 

10. Rialto Bridge

The Rialto Bridge offers breathtaking views of the Grand Canal.

 

You cannot leave Venice without seeing the famous Rialto Bridge. This elegant 16th-century bridge connecting the San Marco and San Paulo districts is one of the top tourist attractions in the city. The Rialto Bridge stretches across the narrowest point of the Grand Canal. It is the oldest of the four bridges spanning the Grand Canal. It is a perfect place to watch the gondolas and water taxis.

 

Construction of the ornate stone Rialto Bridge started after the collapse of a wooden bridge. Probably you do not know, but the Rialto Bridge was the only means of Grand Canal crossing, until the 19th century. Today, the Rialto Bridge, built entirely of stone, has become a symbol of Venice. This bridge is also unusual because it has boutiques and souvenir shops lining its grand staircase. Because of that, seeing the Rialto Bridge needs to be on your 2 days in Venice itinerary.

The Rialto Bridge is a Renaissance architectural and engineering marvel.

 

GOOD TO KNOW:

When visiting the Rialto Bridge, bear in mind that tourists flock to take pictures towards midday. This bridge is also the famous location to watch a sunset in Venice. Instead, enjoy the views from the bridge early in the morning or late in the evening.

 

11. Rialto market

If you are after an authentic Venetian atmosphere, head to a traditional Rialto market. This busy daily market lies just a short walk from the bridge with the same name. Walk around the colourful stall and soak up the atmosphere without breaking the bank. These stalls sell everything from fresh fruit, vegetables and fish from the Venice Lagoon and the Adriatic Sea.

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Due to its proximity to Rialto Bridge, Venice’s primary market is a magnet for visitors. For the best experience, visit this daily market early in the morning. Grab a snack and enjoy this lively place with the ancient tradition without the crowds.

 

12. Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute

Another iconic Venetian landmark you can’t miss when you spend 48 hours in Venice is the elegant Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute. This Roman Catholic church and minor basilica, built from Istrian stone, lies at the entrance of the Grand Canal. The locals refer to it as “Salute”, which means health and salvation.

Elegant Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute is one of the best examples of Baroque style in the city. Venetians built it on hundreds of thousands of wooden piles on a narrow strip of land. They constructed it in the 17th century to mark the end of Venice’s plague, which killed a third of the city’s population.

Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute, dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

 

Today, Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute is one of the most photographed symbols of the city. This beautiful basilica houses a collection of artworks by one of the greatest painters of all time – Titian. Do not miss Titian’s early altarpiece of St Mark Enthroned with Saints Cosmas, Damian, Roch and Sebastian. Other famous paintings by Titian are his dramatic ceiling paintings of Cain and Abel, The Sacrifice of Abraham and also Isaac and David and Goliath. Another highlight is the canvas “Marriage at Cana” by Tintoretto.

 

GOOD TO KNOW:

Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute is open every day from 9.30 pm until noon. You can also visit it later during the day, from 3 pm until 5.30 pm. Entry to the basilica is free, but if you want to see the sacristy, you pay 4 euros. For 8 euros, you can climb 150 steps to the cupola. It offers gorgeous city views.

 

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If you are in Venice on the day of “Salute” (each year on the 21st of November) you can experience the religious “Festa della Salute”. It’s a celebration where thousands of people give thanks to the Virgin Mary. Every year, for this day, the locals build a temporary bridge across the Grand Canal. It is for people who make the pilgrimage to this church.

 

 

13. Burano island

Burano, the most colourful Italian island

 

If there is one more thing you should see in Venice in 2 days, it is Burano Island. This gorgeous island lies in the Venetian Lagoon and is less than an hour away by boat from Venice. Maybe you do not know, but Burano is famous as the most colourful island of the lagoon. It has brightly coloured buildings and boat-filled canals which attract day-trippers from Venice. Exploring Burano is a perfect way to spend the day if you prefer a more peaceful experience.

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14.Murano

Did you know Murano was the glass-producing centre in Europe during the 15th and 16th centuries?

 

If you have spare time, visit Murano Island on the way back from Burano Island. Murano lies only less than 4 kilometres away from Venice. It is one of the most popular day trips from Venice because it is famous all over the world for Murano glass. This small island has been the centre of the glassmaking industry since the 13th century.

 

GOOD TO KNOW:

If you have more time, visit Murano and Burano islands on day 3 in Venice.

Now you know what to do in Venice in 2 days!

 

Where to stay in Venice for 48 hours

Not sure where to stay in Venice for 48 hours? If you have only 2 days in Venice, it is wise to stay in the heart of Venice. This way, you can walk quickly almost everywhere you want. San Marco, Dorsoduro and also Sao Polo are the perfect home base if you want to explore Venice in 2 days. There are plenty of hotels to choose from, varying in cost and depending on location.

 

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How to get to Venice

Venice Marco Polo Airport lies only 8 km (5 miles) to the north of Venice. So even if you have only 48 hours in Venice, you have plenty of time to explore this pretty city. There are numerous ways to get to Venice from the airport. You can take the bus, a taxi, a vaporetto or a water taxi.

 

• ALILAGUNA:

Alilaguna’s water buses connect Marco Polo Airport with the famous Piazza San Marco. These water buses run all day, from very early in the morning. Each Alilaguna journey costs 15 euros per person.

 

• BUS NUMBER 5:

If you need a cheaper ride, consider taking bus number 5 from the airport. This bus connects the airport with Piazzale Roma in the city centre. A one-way bus ticket costs only 8 euros and takes 30 -45 minutes.

 

• ATVO BLUE BUS:

Alternatively, take the ATVO bus from the airport to Piazzale Roma, which runs approximately every 30 minutes. This blue bus has only two stops, and it will bring to the city centre in about 20 minutes. Expect to pay 8 euros for a single ticket. You can buy a ticket at the ATVO ticket office and also in the ticket machine in the baggage reclaim area at the airport.

 

• WATER TAXI:

Your last option is a water taxi, but it is the most expensive option. It can fit a maximum of 10 people, and a ride from the airport costs over 100 euros. You should know it is worth taking a water taxi if you travel as a large group.

 

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We hope that this article has inspired you to spend 2 days in Venice. If you have any questions about Venice, please leave these in the comment below. Don’t forget to save this post also to Pinterest.

 

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