When planning our trip and looking for things to do in Venice, we decided to spend five days exploring the city in April. At first, we were unsure about the weather, but our doubts quickly disappeared. Venice welcomed us with pleasant 20°C temperatures and clear blue skies.
For most city trips, we usually stick to three days. However, we deliberately set aside more time for Venice. Our goal was to immerse ourselves in the city’s unique atmosphere rather than just rush from one landmark to another. Another reason was to experience Venice on quieter weekdays, avoiding the weekend crowds.
In this travel guide, we share our best tips and experiences. You’ll find out how to get from the airport to the city center, where to stay, and how to navigate the canals and narrow streets. We’ll also introduce you to Venice’s top attractions, exciting activities, and hidden gems that many travelers miss.
Things to Do in Venice & Must-See Attractions – Overview
5 Days in Venice with Flight & Hotel
For our trip, we booked flights, accommodation, and transfers independently. We found our flights via Skyscanner* with EasyJet. When choosing a place to stay, we prioritized a central but quiet location and found the perfect spot in Cannaregio, which we booked through Booking*.
Cannaregio retains the authentic charm of Venice, with real locals, small cafés, great restaurants, and narrow alleys. The main sights in the city center are just a 15- to 20-minute walk from there. The route takes you on a relaxed stroll through the historic old town, passing countless shops and bars along the way.
Arriving at Venice Airport
The flight from Berlin to Venice took just 1 hour and 45 minutes. As soon as we stepped off the plane and entered the arrivals hall, we had to find our way around. The airport is located on the mainland, just before the Venetian Lagoon, so we had pre-purchased tickets for the airport transfer to the city* and were now looking for the bus.
Tip: Transfer from Marco Polo Airport to Venice
Book your airport transfer to the city in advance. We took the ATVO Airport Shuttle to Piazzale Roma, the central bus terminal, reaching Venice in a relaxed 30-minute ride. You can book the bus transfer here*.
We chose the bus because we arrived late in the evening. If you’re landing during the day, you might also consider taking a water taxi* or the water bus for a more scenic arrival. This way, you’ll get stunning views of the lagoon and city right from the start. You can book the water taxi here* and reserve your water bus transfer here*.
Note: If you’re arriving by car, you can drive only as far as Piazzale Roma. There are parking garages where you can leave your vehicle.
From Piazzale Roma, we walked about 15 minutes to our hotel in the Cannaregio district.
Getting Around Venice by Ferry
Since no cars or buses operate within the lagoon city, there are only two ways to get around: on foot or by water.
Venice’s public transport system consists of water buses*, known as Vaporetto. Their network is extensive and works similarly to metro systems in other major cities—just on water.
While many sights in Venice are within walking distance, you’ll need the Vaporetto for trips between the islands. It’s also the most scenic way to explore the city, offering breathtaking views while cutting down travel time.
We strongly recommend purchasing your ticket in advance. Depending on how long you stay in Venice, you can choose from various passes, from a single-day ticket to a 7-day pass. Book your water bus tickets here*.
Venice Ferry Timetables
If you want to check possible routes in advance, you can find the official water bus route map here. We simply went with the flow during our visit and hopped on whenever we passed one of the many water bus stations.
6 Districts You Must Explore on Your Trip to Venice
Venice is divided into six unique districts, known as Sestieri, each with its own character and history. As mentioned earlier, we chose Cannaregio for our hotel* and used it as a base for our explorations.
Cannaregio
This district combines the historic Jewish Ghetto* with authentic Venetian life, making it a perfect place to experience a quieter side of the city away from the tourist crowds.
San Marco
San Marco is the heart of Venice, famous for St. Mark’s Square, the Doge’s Palace*, and stunning palaces—a hub of history, art, and elegance.
Dorsoduro
Dorsoduro is known for its artistic atmosphere, home to the Peggy Guggenheim Collection and the Gallerie dell’Accademia. This district offers a mix of art, history, and vibrant nightlife.
San Polo
San Polo is the smallest district, best known for the iconic Rialto Bridge and its lively Rialto Market.
Castello
Castello, the largest district, offers a glimpse into everyday Venetian life, blending grand churches with historic landmarks and traditional residential areas.
Santa Croce
This district provides a relaxed atmosphere with fewer tourist attractions, making it an excellent retreat from the city’s busier areas.
If, like us, you’re spending more than just a day in Venice, you’ll likely have the chance to explore all of these districts.
How to Find Affordable Accommodation in Venice
Despite being one of Europe’s top destinations, it’s still possible to find affordable accommodation in Venice. Areas like Cannaregio and Dorsoduro, away from the busy tourist hubs such as San Marco, offer attractive and budget-friendly stays*.
We booked our hotel in Cannaregio*, where small, family-run hotels, charming bed & breakfasts, and cozy apartments provide an authentic Venetian experience without breaking the bank.
To save money, consider booking outside the peak tourist season. Prices drop in the cooler months, but Venice’s charm remains the same.
For our search, we used the map feature on Booking.com*, which makes it easy to see how far accommodations are from the city center.
Venice Hotel Insider Tip
The Hotel Al Ponte Mocenigo*, located in San Polo near the Rialto Bridge, blends traditional Venetian charm with modern comfort. It’s a peaceful retreat away from the city’s busiest tourist areas. As with all accommodations in Venice, we recommend booking early*, as rooms here are in high demand and sell out quickly.
Top Attractions & Things to Do in Venice
The city itself is already one of the top attractions. In fact, Venice is so rich in sights, culture, and history that it’s nearly impossible to see everything in just two or three days. Here, we present the best attractions, so you can decide which ones you don’t want to miss.
Doge’s Palace
One of Venice’s most iconic landmarks, Doge’s Palace is located on St. Mark’s Square, next to St. Mark’s Basilica and the Bridge of Sighs. A tour inside* is a must to experience its magnificent architecture and historical significance.
Doge’s Palace Tickets
To avoid long lines, we recommend booking an online skip-the-line ticket* or opting for a one-hour guided tour*.
Grand Canal
The Grand Canal, stretching about four kilometers, winds through Venice in an S-shape, dividing the city into six districts. Four main bridges connect them: the Rialto Bridge, Scalzi Bridge, Accademia Bridge, and Ponte della Costituzione. You can cross the canal on foot, via Vaporetto (water buses*), or by Traghetto (gondolas*).
Insider Tip: An evening Vaporetto ride past the illuminated palaces is an unforgettable experience, as they appear even more majestic at night.
Venice from Above: The Campanile di San Marco
The Campanile di San Marco, Venice’s most famous bell tower, offers breathtaking panoramic views from the top.
Hidden Gem: San Giorgio Maggiore – A View Over Venice
We took the water bus to San Giorgio Maggiore island, where the Campanile di San Giorgio provided the best view of Venice. There was no waiting time, and for just 6 euros, the elevator took us straight to the top. We enjoyed the spectacular view in complete tranquility.
St. Mark’s Square
St. Mark’s Square, the heart of Venice, is surrounded by landmarks such as the Doge’s Palace* and St. Mark’s Basilica*. Despite the crowds, it offers a direct view of the sea. At Caffe Chioggia, we treated ourselves to a cappuccino. However, keep in mind that prices are quite high due to the prime location.
St. Mark’s Basilica
One of the most important landmarks and an absolute must-see, St. Mark’s Basilica was built nearly a thousand years ago. The interior is adorned with golden mosaics and marble, creating an awe-inspiring atmosphere. Entry to the basilica is free, but there are additional fees for special areas such as the treasury and the Pala d’Oro.
You will likely encounter queues at almost any time of day, but you can skip the line with an audio guide ticket*.
For a truly unforgettable experience, I recommend visiting St. Mark’s Basilica after closing hours on a guided tour or booking a combo tour with the adjacent Doge’s Palace* to avoid the crowds.
Peggy Guggenheim Collection
The Peggy Guggenheim Collection is located in Palazzo Venier dei Leoni and is open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM, except on Tuesdays. It is best reached via the Accademia Bridge. To avoid long queues, I recommend booking a time-slot ticket* in advance. The collection features modern masterpieces from renowned artists such as Pablo Picasso, Wassily Kandinsky, and Max Ernst.
Rialto Bridge
We crossed the Rialto Bridge every day during our stay since it was directly on our route from our hotel* in Cannaregio to the city center. The oldest bridge in Venice is a top photo spot and always crowded.
Bridge of Sighs
One of the most photographed attractions in Venice, the Bridge of Sighs connects the Doge’s Palace with the old prison. For the best view, I recommend the Ponte della Paglia.
Scuola Grande di San Rocco
The Scuola Grande di San Rocco showcases Tintoretto’s masterpieces and stunning architecture. It is one of Venice’s highlights and is often referred to as its “Sistine Chapel.”
Ponte dell’Accademia
The Ponte dell’Accademia, a wooden bridge, offers a breathtaking view of the Grand Canal.
Basilica Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari
The Gothic Frari Basilica, built in the 14th century, houses the tombs of Venetian doges, Titian’s grave, and the masterpiece “Assumption of the Virgin.” A must-visit for art lovers.
Teatro La Fenice
The renowned Teatro La Fenice is famous for its lavish interior with red-gold seating and opulent balconies. You can visit this world-famous opera house with an audio guide either during a performance or outside of showtimes. Book your tickets here*.
Santa Maria della Salute
One of the most photogenic churches in Venice, Santa Maria della Salute stands at the entrance to the Grand Canal, recognizable by its two distinctive domes. Entry is free.
Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo
At Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo, we were almost the only tourists. Hidden in a narrow alley, this historic building impresses with its distinctive spiral staircase. The tower’s viewing platform offered us a fantastic panorama of the city. You can book tickets for entry to Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo online in advance here*.
Mercato di Rialto
For an authentic experience in Venice, the Mercato di Rialto is a must-visit. This historic market, famous for its fish stalls under a stone lodge, attracts both locals and tourists. It is open from Monday to Saturday until noon. Around the market, small bars invite you to enjoy a leisurely breakfast.
Basilica dei Santi Giovanni e Paolo (San Zanipolo)
Located in the Castello district, the Basilica dei Santi Giovanni e Paolo is considered the second most important church in Venice after St. Mark’s Basilica. Its grand architecture makes it a true landmark.
Ca’ d’Oro
Ca’ d’Oro is one of the most stunning palaces on the Grand Canal and a prime example of Venetian Gothic architecture. Today, it houses the Galleria Giorgio Franchetti, a museum showcasing fine art.
Islands of Murano, Torcello, and Burano
A trip to Venice isn’t complete without a visit to the islands* of Murano, Burano, and Torcello. Murano is world-famous for its glassmaking, Burano charms visitors with its colorful houses, and Torcello captivates with its rich history. Burano can be reached in just 45 minutes via Vaporetto Line 12. With a guided boat tour*, you can explore all three islands in a single day.
Things to Do in Venice
Gondola Ride in Venice
A gondola ride is simply a must in Venice, almost as iconic as Mount Vesuvius in Naples. While it isn’t exactly cheap, if you’re already here, you shouldn’t miss out on this experience. A gondola can hold up to five people. For a quieter ride, I recommend starting away from St. Mark’s Square. This way, you can enjoy the unique charm of Venice in a more peaceful setting. You can book your gondola ride here*.
How Much Does a Gondola Ride in Venice Cost?
A gondola ride in Venice is an unforgettable experience, but it comes at a price. For a 30-minute ride through the picturesque canals, expect to pay between €30 and €100 per gondola. Prices often increase in the late afternoon and evening as these times are particularly popular. If you’re willing to share the gondola with others, the cost per person can be lower.
Shopping
The Fondaco dei Tedeschi, a luxury department store located right next to the Rialto Bridge, is definitely worth a visit. This impressive shopping destination attracts visitors with its selection of high-end fashion brands in exquisite boutiques.
Even if you don’t plan on shopping in the luxury price range, the building itself is well worth a look. A special highlight is the view from the rooftop terrace. During peak season, you may experience wait times, but the breathtaking panoramic view of the city makes it worth every minute.
Lido: The Beach Near Venice
After a few days in the hustle and bustle of Venice, we took a break and headed to the island of Lido. The weather was on our side, with temperatures reaching almost 20°C every day, allowing us to fully enjoy the sun and even take a quick dip in the sea.
Lido offers everything you’d expect from an Italian beach getaway: bars, restaurants, clubs, and hotels* for every budget, as well as a 12-kilometer-long sandy beach. You can reach Lido in about 30 minutes by Vaporetto*. Although Lido was a pleasant change of pace and not overcrowded, visiting it is not a must on a Venice trip.
Restaurants
Venice offers a wide range of dining options, from high-end Michelin-starred restaurants to authentic Italian home cooking. Our dining experiences were consistently positive, thanks to careful selection based on Google Maps ratings of over 4 stars with at least 50 reviews. One thing we noticed: warm polenta was almost always served as a side dish.
Off the beaten tourist paths, you can discover numerous charming restaurants serving traditional Italian and specifically Venetian cuisine. We made a point of seeking out these hidden gems to enjoy culinary highlights both at lunch and dinner.
Our 3 Restaurant Recommendations for Your Venice Trip
Since our hotel only included breakfast, we looked for dining options for lunch and dinner. Here are our top 3 restaurant recommendations:
Best Time to Visit Venice
Spring, especially April and May, is the ideal time to visit Venice. During this period, we experienced excellent weather and noticed that the canals were particularly clean. These months offer a mild climate and fewer crowds compared to other seasons, making it more enjoyable to explore the city.
Weather in Venice – Climate Table
Month | Average High Temperature (°C) | Average Low Temperature (°C) | Average Rainy Days |
|---|---|---|---|
January | 7 | 1 | 7 |
February | 9 | 2 | 5 |
March | 14 | 5 | 7 |
April | 18 | 9 | 9 |
May | 22 | 13 | 9 |
June | 26 | 17 | 8 |
July | 29 | 19 | 7 |
August | 28 | 19 | 8 |
September | 24 | 15 | 6 |
October | 19 | 11 | 7 |
November | 12 | 6 | 9 |
December | 8 | 2 | 7 |
Lake Garda to Venice
During our Northern Italy road trip, we noticed that from Lake Garda, you only need to drive east to reach Venice directly. Along the way, you’ll pass through the beautiful cities of Verona and Padua. However, we did not take this route as our destination was Liguria.
The eastern part of Lake Garda, Verona, and Venice are all part of the northeastern Italian region of Veneto. Veneto stretches from the Dolomites to the Adriatic Sea, with Venice as its capital. If you’re planning a road trip through this diverse and stunning region, this route is an excellent choice.
Distance from Lake Garda to Venice
The distance from Lake Garda to Venice is approximately 150 kilometers, which can be covered by car in about two to two and a half hours. If you’re driving, you should expect toll costs ranging from around €9 to €15, depending on the exact route. Alternatively, trains provide a convenient travel option, with costs and travel times varying depending on the connection.
Venice Trip: Tips for Your Vacation
Here we present our preferred providers for booking trips. It is especially important to us that these booking platforms offer fair prices, high quality, and excellent customer service.
The most important tickets for your Venice trip:
- Bus transfer from the airport to Venice city center*
- Venice public transport waterbus tickets*
- Ticket for the Doge’s Palace*
- Gondola ride on the Grand Canal*
Booking.com* is our top choice for accommodations thanks to its fast & flexible service, huge selection, and affordable prices.
Get Your Guide* is our go-to platform for high-quality excursions and activities while traveling.
Viator* also offers tours. If we don’t find what we’re looking for on Get Your Guide, Viator often has great alternatives.
Skyscanner* is our first choice when searching for cheap flights.
Sixt* is our preferred provider for rental cars. They often offer great discounts.
Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Venice
Venice has over 400 bridges connecting the city’s canals and islands.
Venice is located in northeastern Italy on the Adriatic coast, in the Veneto region. The city is made up of a group of small islands separated by canals and connected by bridges.
Venice is not a single island but consists of over 100 small islands separated by canals and connected by bridges.
