Ciao, travelers! I’m Rileigh, the owner of Travel Mellow, and I’m thrilled to share with you my personalized 12-day itinerary for exploring the enchanting city of Venice during the
Day 1: Unveiling the Wonders of Venice
Kick off your Venetian adventure by exploring the iconic St. Mark’s Square, where you’ll be mesmerized by the grandeur of St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace. Afterward, indulge in a quintessential Venetian experience by taking a gondola ride through the city’s enchanting canals. As the sun sets, stroll across the famous Rialto Bridge and savor a delightful meal at Osteria alle Testiere, a cozy bacaro (wine bar) serving delectable cicchetti (Venetian tapas) and local wines.
Day 2: Exploring the Venetian Islands
Today, embark on a journey to the nearby islands of Murano and Burano. In Murano, witness the mesmerizing art of glass blowing and browse the exquisite glass creations. Then, head to Burano, famous for its vibrant, colorful houses and intricate lace-making tradition. For lunch, I recommend Trattoria da Luca, a charming restaurant serving fresh seafood caught daily by local fishermen.
Day 3: Immersing in Venetian Art
Dedicate this day to exploring Venice’s rich artistic heritage. Start at the Accademia Gallery, home to an impressive collection of Venetian art, including masterpieces by Titian, Tintoretto, and Veronese. Afterward, visit the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, showcasing an exceptional array of modern art. For dinner, indulge in traditional Venetian cuisine at Cantina do Mori, a cozy restaurant tucked away in a charming courtyard.
Day 4: A Day Trip to Verona
Venture beyond Venice and embark on a day trip to the romantic city of Verona. Explore the iconic Juliet’s Balcony, made famous by Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, and marvel at the impressive Arena di Verona, a well-preserved Roman amphitheater still hosting operas and concerts. Before returning to Venice, savor a delectable meal at one of Verona’s charming trattorias.
Day 5: Discovering the Cannaregio Neighborhood
Today, immerse yourself in the vibrant Cannaregio neighborhood, known for its authentic Venetian atmosphere. Wander through the narrow streets, admire the charming canals, and visit the historic Jewish Ghetto. For a true local experience, stop by Osteria al Portego and indulge in a traditional bacari crawl, sampling delicious cicchetti and sipping on local wines.
Day 6: Exploring Padua
Take a day trip to the nearby city of Padua, renowned for its rich history and stunning architecture. Visit the impressive St. Anthony’s Basilica, a pilgrimage site dedicated to St. Anthony of Padua, and marvel at the breathtaking frescoes in the Scrovegni Chapel. Before returning to Venice, treat yourself to a delectable meal at a local trattoria, savoring the flavors of the Veneto region.
Day 7: Discovering the Dorsoduro Neighborhood
Explore the charming Dorsoduro neighborhood, known for its vibrant art scene and picturesque canals. Visit the Gallerie dell’Accademia, home to an impressive collection of Venetian art, including works by Titian and Tintoretto. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Zattere promenade, offering stunning views of the Giudecca Canal, and savor a delicious meal at Osteria Boccadoro, a local favorite serving traditional Venetian specialties.
Day 8: Discovering the Palladian Villas of Vicenza
Embark on a day trip to the nearby city of Vicenza, renowned for its stunning Palladian architecture. Explore the iconic Palladian Villas, designed by the renowned architect Andrea Palladio, and marvel at their harmonious blend of classical and Renaissance styles. Before returning to Venice, indulge in a delectable meal at a local trattoria, savoring the flavors of the Veneto region.
Day 9: Exploring the Castello Neighborhood
Spend the day exploring the Castello neighborhood, one of the largest and most authentic areas of Venice. Wander through the narrow streets, admire the charming canals, and visit the impressive Arsenale, a former shipyard that played a crucial role in Venice’s maritime history. For a unique dining experience, visit one of the local bacari and sample a variety of cicchetti and local wines.
Day 10: A Day Trip to Treviso
Venture beyond Venice and explore the charming city of Treviso. Stroll along the picturesque canals, admire the stunning frescoes in the Piazza dei Signori, and immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant local culture. Before returning to Venice, indulge in a delectable meal at a local trattoria, savoring the flavors of the Veneto region.
Day 11: Exploring the San Polo Neighborhood
Spend the day exploring the lively San Polo neighborhood, known for its bustling markets and authentic local atmosphere. Visit the iconic Rialto Market, where you can browse a wide array of fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies. Afterward, wander through the narrow streets and discover hidden gems, such as charming bacari and artisan workshops.
Day 12: A Day of Leisure and Exploration
On your final day in Venice, take the opportunity to revisit your favorite spots, indulge in some last-minute shopping, or simply relax and soak in the city’s enchanting atmosphere. If you have time, consider exploring areas you haven’t yet visited or taking a leisurely stroll along the canals, savoring every moment of this magical city.
General Travel Tips for Venice, Italy
- Be prepared for crowds, especially during the summer months. Book accommodations and activities well in advance.
- Dress comfortably and wear appropriate footwear for walking on uneven surfaces and bridges.
- Respect the local culture and customs, and avoid disruptive behavior in public spaces.
- Explore beyond the main tourist areas to discover the authentic side of Venice.
- Embrace the local cuisine and try traditional dishes like cicchetti, seafood, and Venetian specialties.
Venice is a truly enchanting city, and I hope this itinerary will help you experience its authentic charm and create lasting memories. Remember, the best way to explore Venice is to embrace the local way of life, savor the flavors, and immerse yourself in the city’s rich history and culture. Buon viaggio!