Explore Venice: The Perfect 3 Day Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

Exploring Venice in 3-Days

If you're venturing into the enchanting northeastern region of Italy, Venice is an absolute must-see! This iconic city, once a formidable financial and maritime power during the Middle Ages and Renaissance, is a unique tapestry of 118 islands linked by shimmering canals, open waters, and over 400 charming bridges. So, grab a water taxi and let’s embark on a journey through the heart of Venice over three perfect days!

Welcome to one of the most magical cities in Europe—where canals replace roads and every corner feels like a painting. Whether you’re squeezing in a long weekend or kicking off a bucket list adventure, this 3-day itinerary hits all the must-sees without the overwhelm. Think of this as your stress-free guide to soaking up Venice—written for women who want culture, beauty, and a little prosecco on the side.

Choosing the Ideal Accommodation - Where to Stay

When planning your trip, finding the perfect place to stay can make all the difference. Here are some options to consider:

• Cozy Bed and Breakfasts: Enjoy a warm, personal touch with a stay at a local B&B. You'll often find homemade breakfasts and a chance to connect with your hosts.

• Luxury Hotels: If you're looking to indulge, consider a luxury hotel that offers top-notch amenities and exceptional service.

• Charming Vacation Rentals: For a home-away-from-home experience, explore vacation rentals that provide the comfort and flexibility you need.

  
  

If you like staying in a central spot to avoid wasting time getting around the city, that's fantastic! If you want to save some money by staying a bit away from the busy areas, that's great too! Whatever you choose, ensure it suits your needs and enhances your travel experience. Depending on your preferences, consider a combo of a Luxury Hotel and a Charming Vacation Rental. We did both, let's break it down!

Charming Vacation Rental

For the majority of our nights in Venice, we had the pleasure of staying at the Views on the Rialto Bridge, an AirBnB Apartment. From the moment we arrived, it felt even more magical than the pictures, description, and reviews had promised. We truly had a wonderful time! The apartment was the perfect size for the two of us, almost too spacious for just us. I can imagine it being ideal for a small group of friends or family!

It was the perfect location for our short stay in Venice. Just a 2-3 minute walk from the Rialto Bridge, it sat right on the Grand Canal, making it incredibly easy to access all of the tourist attractions. Each day, we’d stroll through the charming streets, knowing we had a cozy home base to return to.

One of our favorite rituals became unwinding with a bottle of wine or indulging in gelato on the balcony as the sun set. The view was simply breathtaking, and each moment felt special and unforgettable. It was those little moments, with the golden light reflecting off the canal, that truly made our trip memorable.

Tip: Below the building is a Burger King, which made an easy reference point for finding the location upon arrival. Don't be put off by being in a heavy foot traffic area, it is very quiet once inside.

Luxury Hotel

One of my bucket list hotels has always been the Gritti Palace, a breathtaking Marriott hotel perched right on the Grand Canal. As I prepared for the trip, I knew I wanted to stay at least one night for the experience. We diligently saved our Marriott points and I could hardly contain my anticipation for the luxury that awaited us.

The hotel itself was nothing short of magical, embodying everything I had envisioned for a 5-Star experience. From the moment I stepped inside, I felt enveloped in elegance and charm, making it clear why this place holds such a special spot amongst guests.

Transportation: Plane, Train or Water Taxi

Whether arriving by train or plane to Venice, access into the heart of the city is a water taxi ride away! I highly recommend arriving around late morning. Upon arrival at Venice Marco Polo Airport, we took a water taxi from the airport to our accommodation. The airport signage makes it very easy to locate the Water Taxi pick up desk. You'll find a staffed kiosk where you can inform them of your destination, and they will direct you to the appropriate boat.

Tip: We shared a Water Taxi from the airport with another couple, which helped reduce the cost. With all our excitement for the first glimpse of the canals, we took photos of them, and they took photos of us!

If arriving by train, arrival at Santa Lucia Station is seamless. You can easily walked to and from the train station for various excursions as needed. There is also a water taxi stand outside of the station if you have larger bags.

Tip: If you have bags larger than a carry on size, I highly recommend taking a water taxi to your accommodation. While the distance may not be far, don't underestimate the stairs on the bridges - they are frequent and your arms will tire quickly.

Most of your time in Venice, you will be exploring by foot, which is perhaps one of the most delightful ways to experience the unique charm and intricate beauty of this historic city. As you wander through the narrow, winding streets, you will encounter an array of stunning architecture, from the majestic facades of ancient palaces to the quaint, colorful buildings that line the canals. Each turn may reveal a hidden piazza, a charming bridge, or a picturesque canal, all offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Venetian life.

Your journey on foot allows you to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere that fills the air, filled with the sounds of gondoliers singing (for a price) and the gentle lapping of water against the stone embankments. You can stop at local shops to sample authentic Venetian delicacies, such as cicchetti—small snacks typically served in bars and taverns—or indulge in a rich gelato while you take in the stunning views of the Grand Canal.

Moreover, walking through Venice also gives you the opportunity to appreciate the city's unique layout, characterized by its lack of cars and the intricate network of canals and footbridges. This pedestrian-friendly environment encourages you to slow down and truly absorb the surroundings, allowing for spontaneous detours and unplanned adventures.

Day 1: Arrival and Hidden Gems

To truly immerse ourselves in the enchanting beauty of Venice, and keep ourselves awake to try and beat the jet lag , we pre-booked the Viator recommended tour, "Venice: The Hidden Canals on Electric Boats". It was a great way to see Venice the way it was meant to, on the canals. We were eager to see Venice away from the bustling crowds. The electric boat provided a serene and eco-friendly way to navigate the waterways, allowing us to appreciate the city’s charm without the noise of traditional motorboats. Each turn revealed picturesque scenes, from quaint bridges to vibrant local life, making us fall even more in love with Venice. Overall, this tour was a perfect blend of exploration and relaxation, giving us the chance to see Venice as it was meant to be seen—through its captivating canals.

Tip: If you can, book an overnight flight and plan an activity for when you land so you can quickly adjust to the time change.

For your first night, you will probably be tired and ready to head to bed. Push through and make your way to Al Timon, a charming local steakhouse. We arrived a bit early for the dinner menu, but we seized the opportunity to split a delightful bottle of wine, paired with local cheese and meats.

If you find yourself there, make sure to grab a table outside along the canal for sunset! We loved watching the locals come and go, soaking in the ambiance of what felt like an authentic Venetian neighborhood. It was a refreshing reminder of a different way of life, one that inspired us to embrace a slower pace and truly savor time spent with friends.

For our main course, we shared the steak plate for two. When I say it was enormous, I mean it! We couldn't even finish it! The steak was undoubtedly one of the best I've ever had in my life. If I return to Venice, Al Timon will be at the top of my list to revisit!

Tip: Solo or female travelers, Venice is a very safe city. I would have felt very safe if walking alone at night. The city is so active, there were people around every corner.

Day 2: Venice, Italy - Discovering the Heart of Venice

On our first full day, we embarked on an unforgettable group tour titled "Venice in a Day." The excitement was palpable as we set out to explore some of the city's most iconic landmarks: Basilica San Marco, Doge's Palace, and a scenic gondola ride.

Tip: The tour starts before the city wakes up. Take advantage and stop at the Rialto Bridge on your way to the tour meet up location to take your photos without the crowds!

The tour began with an enchanting walking tour that led us to the Mercato di Rialto. As we strolled through the vibrant market, the sights and sounds of local vendors filled the air, creating an atmosphere that was both lively and inviting. Next, we wound our way through the charming streets of the city, eventually arriving at the historic Marco Polo's House. Standing there, I couldn't help but imagine the adventures of the great explorer.

After soaking in the history, it was time for our gondola ride. Gliding through the serene canals, I felt a sense of tranquility wash over me as we admired the stunning architecture from the water. Once our gondola ride concluded, we paused to enjoy a delicious lunch. Our guide was incredibly helpful, providing local recommendations that would allow us to savor the authentic flavors of the region. This advice was invaluable as we prepared for the final stops of our tour, eager to explore more of what this magical city had to offer.

Tip: Be mindful of portion sizes, especially with food and alcohol! We had lunch with Aperol Spritz, which left us quite tired for the afternoon portion of the tour which included walking under the scorching sun and visiting buildings without air conditioning.

The afternoon portion of our day began with an enchanting tour of Basilica San Marco. As I stepped inside this majestic church, I was immediately struck by its grandeur and rich history that unfolded over the centuries. Each intricate detail and shimmering mosaic seemed to whisper stories of the past, transporting me to a time when art and faith intertwined in profound ways. Walking through the hallowed halls, I couldn't help but feel a deep connection to the countless individuals who had walked these same paths, each leaving their mark on this iconic landmark. The beauty of the basilica was not just in its architecture but in the layers of history that surrounded me, making the experience truly unforgettable.

Tip: Most churches or places of worship will not allow visitors with shoulders and legs showing. We visited in August and it was HOT! I wore a linen romper and packed a scarf and maxi skirt in my purse to cover my shoulders and legs.

Next, we made our way to the majestic Doge's Palace. The intricate architecture and rich history captivated us. Walking through the grand halls, we imagined the lives of the Doges and the political intrigue that once unfolded here. The view from the palace's windows overlooking the lagoon was simply stunning, and we took a moment to soak in the beauty of our surroundings. We passed through the Bridge of Sighs on our way to the New Prison.

Tip: Highly recommend taking the time to tour the prison before the tour concludes.

This tour ended mid-afternoon, and honestly, we were pretty tired. We orginally planned to take a refresh at the apartment and then find a local place for dinner. Little did we know that our day was about to take an unexpected turn. Our tour guide mentioned that The Regata Storica, or Venice Historical Regatta, was happening on the Grand Canal, and little did we know, our AirBnB had front row seats! This annual event is celebrated on the first Sunday of September and features a historical water pageant and exciting boat racing competitions.

Our Airbnb balcony became our little oasis, offering breathtaking views of the Grand Canal. It was the ideal spot for us to immerse ourselves in The Regata Storica. We decided to indulge a bit and ordered a mouthwatering pizza paired with a couple of bottles of wine. As we sat there, savoring each bite and sip, the excitement of the Regatta unfolded right before our eyes. The colorful boats and the lively cheers from the crowd created a magical backdrop to our meal. This moment, filled with laughter and joy, truly transformed our time in this beautiful city into an unforgettable experience that we will cherish forever!

This unforgettable day was beautifully capped off with a delightful gelato, as the sun set over the enchanting Grand Canal. The vibrant colors of the sky mirrored the joy in my heart, making the moment feel even more special. Each scoop of gelato was a sweet reminder of the experiences shared and the laughter that filled the air, creating a perfect ending to a day I will cherish forever.

Day 3: Venice with Day Trip to Burano

My husband is more of a go-with-the-flow kind of guy, never one to have every second meticulously planned out. This particular day was his built-in "call an audible" moment. We had two main things on our agenda: changing lodging locations and enjoying a nice dinner to cap off our time in Venice.

Tip: There is no need to change lodging unless you want to. Our AirBNB was already booked for our last night and we wanted to stay at The Gritti Palace.

We savored our last meal on the balcony as the city began to wake up around us. With a spread of delightful bakery items, we relished the slower morning pace, unburdened by a strict schedule—our only obligation being to check out of our AirBnB.

Over breakfast, my husband and I discussed what he would want to do this day. We had seen most of the highlights on our tour and walked aimlessly after dinner the first night. I told him about the surrounding islands - Murano, known for glass blowing, and Burano, known for handmade lace. While I've heard great things about both, we decided to do Burano only. We wanted to allow enough time to come back and rest before our dinner.

After checking in at The Gritti Palace, we eagerly set off in a water taxi for Burano. The thrill of gliding across the water, the water calm near the Grand Canal but it did get bumpier for the ~30 minute ride to the island. Our taxi captain, with a friendly smile, urged us to simply go and wander. As we arrived at Burano, we were greeted by a vibrant tapestry of colors that adorned the island. Most of the shops and restaurants were to our left, but we decided to venture right, drawn to the quieter side of the island. This choice allowed us to soak in the serene beauty and charm of Burano at our own pace. Strolling along the picturesque canals, we marveled at the brightly painted houses that made this place one of the top 10 most colorful cities in the world.

Each turn revealed a new hue, a new scene, and a new photo opportunity. We took our time, savoring the ambiance and the delightful little details that made Burano so unique. Eventually, we made our way back toward the bustling area, ready to indulge in a well-deserved lunch.

Tip: Use Bar da Pippo as your landmark for directions back to the main pick up place for the island.

Tip: Most water taxis prefer cash. When ordering a taxi, specify that you will be paying with a card and you shouldn't run into any issues.

We absolutely adored the vibrant, colorful houses that lined the streets. Each one seemed to tell its own story, and we couldn't resist taking the time for an Instagram-worthy photoshoot. It felt like we were in a dream as we wandered through the charming alleys, randomly picking paths to explore. After an hour of delightful wandering, we made our way back to the shops and restaurants, our hearts full of joy and our cameras filled with memories.

We ended up at In Riva Bistro, drawn in by its lovely location right on the water. It was the perfect spot to cool down after our adventure. The spritz and beer were refreshing, but the star of the show was definitely the pasta! Each bite was a taste of heaven. The staff made our experience even better with their warmth and welcoming smiles, making us feel right at home.

Tip: It is very hot on the highland, little to no breeze unless you are on the coastline. Don't forget to take your hat! I was hesitant but it would have been a very long day without it!

After lunch, we strolled through the charming shops, each one brimming with unique treasures. One of my favorite things to hunt for during a trip is a beautiful watercolor or piece of artwork that I can incorporate into our home decor. There's something special about selecting a piece that captures the essence of the place I've visited. Of course, I also had my heart set on finding a delicate lace item. The intricate patterns and textures always seem to add a touch of elegance to any space. With so many enticing shop options, I made sure to take my time, exploring each one and soaking in the atmosphere. It was a delightful challenge to sift through the myriad of choices and finally pick my favorite treasures to take home!

Tip: There are tour groups you can do both Murano and Burano, or take the water bus between. We didn't want to be on a schedule so we elected for the water taxi, which took coordination with the hotel for pick up. We gave them 45 minutes notice of being ready to leave. The water taxi option is more expensive, ~$100 euro per way.

For your final night, treat yourself to a memorable dinner overlooking the Grand Canal. Enjoy the view as the city lights shimmer on the water, creating a magical farewell to your Venetian adventure.

The highlight of our day was undoubtedly dinner at Club del Doge. This iconic Venetian restaurant truly exceeded our expectations in every way! We chose to sit outside, allowing us to soak in the breathtaking views of the Grand Canal one last time before our departure from Venice the next day. As we savored each dish, it became clear that this was one of our favorite dinners of the trip. The food was nothing short of excellent, and what made the experience even more special was the staff. They went above and beyond to ensure our last night in this enchanting city was nothing less than magical. Their warmth and attentiveness made us feel like cherished guests, and we left with our hearts full and memories to last a lifetime.

Tip: We didn't plan it, nor were we aware until we arrived, but it was the Venice Film Festival. A great opportunity to watch for celebrities if that is your thing!