How to Make the Most of 48 Hours in Venice: A Whirlwind Guide
May 2024
Venice is a culturally rich, beautiful city, with rare attractions, however, not all visitors receive the luxury of exploring all it has to offer in the short amount of time you may have. I like to refer to every corner of Venice as a work of art waiting to be discovered, whereby the second you step out of the train station, you will be in complete and utter awe at it’s timeless charm. From iconic landmarks like St. Mark’s Basilica to hidden alleys lined with vibrant cafes, Venice promises a whirlwind of culture, cuisine, and unforgettable experiences. If you have the wonderful opportunity to see Venice, but a limited amount of time to do so, this 48 hour guide is for you.
Venice
Venice is a captivating city located in northeastern Italy, renowned for its unique architectural beauty, intricate canal network, and rich cultural heritage. Built upon a series of islands in the Venetian Lagoon, this historic marvel has captivated the world for centuries. The city’s intricate network of canals serves as its lifeblood, with gondolas and vaporettos gliding through the waterways, offering a romantic and picturesque experience unlike any other that simply takes your breath away upon first glance.
How to Make the Most of 48 Hours in Venice
Day 1
1. Breakfast at Pasticceria Bonifacio
Indulge in a quintessential Venetian breakfast experience at this charming bakery, where the aroma of freshly brewed espresso fills the air. Forget about eggs and bacon – we’re talking about the true Venetian breakfast tradition: a delightful cup of coffee paired with a heavenly pastry. Pasticceria Bonifacio is a less touristy, more casual bakery with delicious pastries and friendly service. Grab your breakfast to go and take a seat by the water to indulge not only in your breakfast but the incredible view.
2. St. Mark’s Basilica
With a warm pastry and cup of rich espresso down and fueled for your journey through Venice, set off towards the majestic St. Mark’s Basilica. Navigating the maze of winding alleys and charming squares, you catch glimpses of Venetian life unfolding around you, and as you draw closer to St. Mark’s Square, the grandeur of the basilica becomes ever more pronounced. Once you emerge into the expanse of St. Mark’s Square, you will be surrounded by the stunning architecture of the Doge’s Palace, the Campanile, and the bustling cafes. Take a moment here to pause to take in the breathtaking sight of St. Mark’s Basilica in all its splendor – an enduring symbol of Venice’s rich history and cultural heritage.
3. Ascend the Campanile
Avoiding the crowds by going early in the morning, ascend the tallest building in Venice and the bell tower of St. Mark’s Basilica for incredible panoramic views of the city below.
4. Rialto Market
Immerse yourself in Venetian culture with a visit to the Rialto Market, where vendors hawk fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies. Indulge in a leisurely lunch at a traditional osteria, sampling regional specialties like sarde in saor and fritto misto.
5. Doge’s Palace
Explore the grand halls and ornate chambers where the Doge once ruled over the Venetian Republic, and imagine yourself transported back in time to a world on intrigue. Don’t forget to walk across the legendary Bridge of Sighs, where prisoners once caught their last glimpse of freedom before descending into the darkness of the dungeons below.
6. Accademia Gallery
This Gallery is home to Venetian art spanning from the 14th to the 18th centuries. Located in the historic Dorsoduro district, the gallery is housed in the former Santa Maria della Carita complex, a beautiful architectural gem in its own right. Visitors can admire works by renaissance artists such as Giovanni Bellini, Titian, Tintoretto, and Veronese.
7. Gondola Ride
No trip to Venice is complete without a ride on a gondola, so be sure to book a sunset cruise along the city’s romantic canals. Whether you’re sharing the experience with a loved one or enjoying the solitude of solo exploration, a gondola ride offers an intimate glimpse into the heart and soul of this mesmerizing city. So sit back, relax, and let the magic of Venice unfold around you as you embark on this unforgettable journey through its liquid streets.
NOTE: Gondola rides can cost upwards of 100 euros per 30-minute ride. If you’re travelling on a budget, the alternative is to hop on the Vaporetto to take in the same views, however, it is simply less private as it is the equivalent to a public transportation bus and costs around 14 euros.
8. Venice Pizza
End your busy day with a Venetian takeaway pizza from any one you pass by on your adventures through the streets of Venice. The pizza throughout Italy differs with every city so be sure to indulge in Venice’s own.
Day 2
1. Othello’s Staircase
Beat the rush of the crowds and watch the sunrise at Otello’s Staircase to commence the most delightful day in your Venetian adventure. To locate the staircase, begin your journey by navigating to Campo Manin in the San Marco district of Venice. From there, follow the signs to Scala del Bovolo. The staircase is tucked away in a quiet corner, so keep an eye out for signs directing you to this hidden gem. One of the highlights of visiting Othello’s Staircase is the breathtaking views it offers of the surrounding area. As you climb to the top, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the rooftops of Venice and the bustling streets below.
NOTE: Othello’s Staircase is open to visitors during certain hours, so be sure to check the opening times before planning your visit. Additionally, admission fees may apply, so be prepared to purchase tickets for ~8 euros.
2. Church of Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari
Cross the Grand Canal to the San Polo district and visit the Church of Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari. This historic church is home to an impressive collection of art and architecture, not to mention, the grandeur of the church’s interior and the beauty of its chapels.
3. Explore San Polo
Known for its lively markets, artisan workshops, and hidden squares, wander through the neighborhood of San Polo and marvel at the beauty it has to offer. Wander through the Campo San Polo, the second-largest square in Venice, and soak in the local atmosphere away from the crowds of San Marco.
4. Vaporetto to the Island of Murano
Take a 9-minute Vaporetto ride from Venice to Murano and visit one of the island’s historic glass factories to watch master glassblowers at work. You can also explore the island’s charming streets and shops, where you can purchase unique glass souvenirs to take home. Spend the remainder of the afternoon in Murano, and enjoy lunch at a traditional trattoria on Murano, where you can sample delicious seafood dishes and other local specialties while taking in views of the island’s picturesque canals and colorful buildings.
5. Head back to Venice and Grab a Spritz
The St. Regis Venice is a gorgeous hotel with a newly renovated luxury restaurant overlooking the Grand Canal which makes for a breathtaking view to have your spritz and indulge in your final meal in Venice.
6. Sunset Stroll
End your adventure with a lovely sunset stroll along the waterfront promenade of the Zattere, where the shimmering waters of the lagoon offer a tranquil respite from the city’s hustle and bustle.
As your whirlwind adventure in Venice comes to a close, take a moment to reflect on the memories you’ve made and the beauty you’ve witnessed in just 48 short hours. From the iconic sights of St. Mark’s Square to the hidden gems of Venice’s winding streets, you’ve experienced the magic of this enchanting city in all its glory. Here’s to the next 48 hours in Venice, and the countless memories yet to be made!
