Ciao, travelers! I’m Rileigh, the owner of Travel Mellow and a former resident of Italy. I’m thrilled to share my personalized 2-day itinerary for exploring the enchanting city of Venice during the
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Venice
Start your day in the iconic St. Mark’s Square, where you can marvel at the grandeur of St. Mark’s Basilica and the surrounding historic buildings. I recommend arriving early to beat the crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. After exploring the square, indulge in a quintessential Venetian experience by taking a gondola ride through the city’s picturesque canals. As you glide along the waterways, your gondolier will share fascinating stories about the city’s history and architecture.
For lunch, head to the charming Cantina Do Spade, a local favorite for delicious cicchetti (Venetian tapas) and a glass of wine. In the afternoon, wander across the iconic Rialto Bridge and explore the bustling Rialto Markets, where you can find an array of fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies.
As the evening approaches, treat yourself to a memorable dinner at Osteria Al Portego, a cozy restaurant serving classic Venetian seafood dishes in a warm, inviting atmosphere. I suggest trying their famous spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams) or the baccalà mantecato (creamy salt cod spread).
Day 2: Discovering Venice’s Hidden Gems
Begin your second day by visiting the magnificent Doge’s Palace, the former residence of the Venetian rulers. Marvel at the opulent interiors and don’t miss the famous Bridge of Sighs, which offers stunning views of the canals. Afterward, immerse yourself in the city’s rich artistic heritage at the Gallerie dell’Accademia, home to an impressive collection of Venetian art, including works by Titian, Tintoretto, and Veronese.
For lunch, I recommend Osteria Al Bacarando, a cozy trattoria serving delectable traditional Venetian cuisine in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Be sure to try their risotto al nero di seppia (risotto with squid ink) or the bigoli in salsa (thick spaghetti with anchovy and onion sauce).
In the afternoon, escape the crowds and explore the quieter neighborhoods of Cannaregio and Castello, where you’ll find charming canals, hidden courtyards, and local artisan workshops. If you have time, consider taking a day trip to the nearby islands of Murano and Burano, famous for their glass-blowing and lace-making traditions, respectively.
For your final evening in Venice, savor a delightful meal at Osteria Ae Scualone, a cozy osteria known for its delectable pasta dishes and excellent wine selection. I highly recommend trying their bigoli in salsa or the spaghetti alle vongole.
General Travel Tips for Venice, Italy
- Use the vaporetto (water buses) for convenient transportation around the city. Purchase a multi-day pass to save money.
- Many attractions and restaurants are closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly.
- Book your gondola rides and reservations at popular restaurants in advance, especially during peak seasons.
- Be prepared for occasional flooding during high tides, known as acqua alta. Bring waterproof shoes or boots.
- Explore the quieter neighborhoods like Cannaregio and Castello to experience the authentic side of Venice, away from the crowds.
Venice is a truly magical city, and I hope this itinerary will help you create unforgettable memories during your winter visit. Embrace the city’s unique charm, savor the delicious cuisine, and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture that make Venice so special. Buon viaggio!