5-Day Itinerary for Venice: Where to Stay, What to Eat, and What to Do
Venice, Italy, is one of the world’s most romantic and iconic cities. Known for its historic canals, architectural wonders, and rich cultural heritage, Venice offers an unforgettable travel experience. Whether you are a first-time visitor or returning to explore more of its charm, this 5-day itinerary will help you make the most of your time. From where to stay to what to eat and what to do, here's your comprehensive guide to Venice.
Where to Stay in Venice
Venice offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to charming boutique stays. Here are a few recommendations:
Luxury Stay: Aman Venice This 16th-century palace turned luxury hotel offers stunning views of the Grand Canal and opulent interiors. It's perfect for those looking for a splurge. Price: Starting at €1,200 per night.
Mid-Range Stay: Hotel Antiche Figure Located on the Grand Canal, this hotel blends Venetian charm with modern comforts. It's perfect for those seeking a central location without breaking the bank. Price: Approximately €200 per night.
Budget Stay: Generator Venice For budget travellers, this chic hostel on Giudecca Island offers shared and private rooms with a view of the Venice skyline. Price: Dorm beds start at €30 per night; private rooms from €90 per night.
Day 1: Explore the Heart of Venice
Start your adventure with the most iconic sites.
Morning: Begin your day at Piazza San Marco (St. Mark’s Square). Visit the stunning Basilica di San Marco, known for its golden mosaics and intricate architecture. Entrance to the Basilica is free, but access to the museum inside costs €7.
Afternoon: Head to Doge’s Palace, a symbol of Venice's political history. Explore its grand halls, art galleries, and the Bridge of Sighs. Tickets cost €25. After, take a walk along the Riva degli Schiavoni for picturesque views of the lagoon.
Evening: Treat yourself to a classic Venetian meal at Ristorante Quadri located in St. Mark’s Square. Try the Bigoli in Salsa (a traditional Venetian pasta) and Sarde in Saor (sweet and sour sardines). Price: Expect to pay around €60 per person for dinner.
Day 2: Discover the Canals and Neighbourhoods
Explore the city's quieter side by wandering through lesser-known areas.
Morning: Take a Gondola Ride along the canals. This quintessential Venice experience lasts about 30 minutes and costs around €80 for a private ride (shared options may be cheaper).
Afternoon: Visit the charming neighbourhood of Dorsoduro. Pop into the Peggy Guggenheim Collection (€16 for adults) to see an impressive collection of modern art. Have a relaxing lunch at a local osteria. Try Cicchetti, traditional Venetian snacks, at Cantine del Vino già Schiavi.Price: Lunch with drinks will cost around €20 per person.
Evening: Take a stroll through the Zattere promenade for beautiful sunset views over the water. End your day with dinner at Osteria alle Testiere, a small seafood restaurant popular with locals. Price: Dinner will set you back around €50 per person.
Day 3: Visit the Islands
Venice’s surrounding islands offer unique attractions that shouldn't be missed.
Morning: Take a Vaporetto (€7.50 per ride or €20 for a day pass) to Murano, famous for its glassmaking. Visit a glass factory and see artisans at work. You can also tour the Museo del Vetro (Glass Museum) for €10.
Afternoon: Head over to Burano, known for its brightly coloured houses and lace-making tradition. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Trattoria al Gatto Nero, where you can sample Risotto di Gò, a seafood risotto unique to the lagoon.Price: Around €40 per person for lunch.
Evening: Return to Venice and unwind with some gelato from Suso Gelatoteca. A cone will set you back around €4. Spend your evening at leisure, perhaps with a quiet walk around the canals.
Day 4: Arts and History
Dive deeper into the city's artistic and cultural heritage.
Morning: Visit the Gallerie dell’Accademia (€12), which houses a vast collection of pre-19th-century Venetian art, including works by Titian, Tintoretto, and Veronese.
Afternoon: For lunch, enjoy a plate of Baccalà Mantecato (creamy salted cod) at Trattoria da Fiore. Price: €25 per person. Afterwards, visit the Scuola Grande di San Rocco (€10), a stunning building filled with masterpieces by Tintoretto.
Evening: Enjoy a traditional Venetian cocktail, the Spritz, at a local bar like Caffè Florian (around €10). Have dinner at Da Fiore, a Michelin-starred restaurant known for its modern take on Venetian cuisine. Price: Expect to spend around €80 per person.
Day 5: Hidden Gems and Relaxation
Wind down your trip with some off-the-beaten-path experiences.
Morning :Explore the Jewish Ghetto, the first ghetto in the world, located in the Cannaregio district. Visit the Jewish Museum of Venice (€12), which offers a fascinating insight into the history of the Jewish community in Venice.
Afternoon: Have a relaxed lunch at Osteria Anice Stellato, a hidden gem offering local dishes such as Fritto Misto (fried seafood).Price: €30 per person. After lunch, take a Vaporetto to Lido di Venezia, a serene escape where you can enjoy the beach and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
Evening: For your final night, indulge in a romantic dinner at Al Covo, which offers Venetian and international fusion dishes. Price: €60 per person for a full meal. Toast your trip with a glass of prosecco!
Budget Breakdown
Here's a rough idea of what you can expect to spend over the five days:
Accommodation: €150 - €6,000 (depending on your hotel choice)
Food & Drink: €300 - €500 per person
Activities & Attractions: €150 - €200 per person
Transport (Vaporetto, Gondola): €80 - €100 per person
Conclusion
Venice is a city that rewards both spontaneous wanderings and planned experiences. Whether you're gliding down the canals on a gondola, marvelling at Renaissance masterpieces, or indulging in delicious Venetian cuisine, this 5-day itinerary ensures you experience the best of what the city has to offer. With careful planning, Venice’s rich history and culture can be enjoyed without overwhelming your budget.
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