Affectionately dubbed the most romantic city in Italy (and one of the most stunning cities in Europe!), Venice rivals Paris when it comes to romance. Regardless of the season, it’s always a perfect time to plan 3 days in Venice, whether you’re traveling with kids or as a couple, for a romantic getaway.
If you’re organizing a trip to The Floating City, continue reading for our practical mini guide to Venice to ensure you don’t miss any of the highlights.
What to do on a weekend in Venice?
Venice is a unique blend of bustling activity and serene tranquility. This beloved city is truly a feast for the senses, offering vibrant streets alongside quiet alleyways, which explains why visitors keep returning. If you’re visiting Venice with babies or toddlers, we suggest leaving strollers behind and opting for babywearing—it’s much more convenient!
Once you’ve settled into your accommodation, you’re ready for adventure. Here’s a list of must-see attractions for your trip.
Take as many pictures as you can
Whether you’re observing local life or enjoying a delicious bowl of pasta, don’t forget to capture the moment with photos. Beauty can be found around every corner in this city; a simple turn down a side street can reveal a new perspective.
PRO TIP: Keep track of how many “WOW” moments you or your children have once you arrive!
With so much beauty surrounding you, not taking pictures would be a missed opportunity—especially considering the city could be entirely submerged by 2030.
Take a Gondola ride
Although they may seem too beautiful to use, gondolas were once a prominent mode of transport in Venice. With horses banned, boats became the primary means of navigating the city’s lagoons. Make sure to sit back and watch the world pass by as you enjoy a relaxing ride beneath the Italian sun.
Visit St. Mark’s Square
Dating back to the ninth century, the square’s stunning architecture is a visual delight. Home to St Mark’s Basilica, you can admire the magnificent cathedral, constructed in 925. Step inside to discover St. Mark’s relics, breathtaking mosaics, and unique Byzantine details that set this building apart.
Take your time exploring the Doge’s Palace, which is one of Venice’s most historically significant attractions. This was once the residence of the Venetian Republic’s leader. As you wander through, visit the Chamber of the Great Council, various courtrooms, and other fascinating rooms. Art enthusiasts will be captivated by Tintoretto’s stunning frescoes.
Visit Rialto Bridge
Rialto Bridge is one of Italy’s iconic landmarks and a must-visit. Spanning the Grand Canal, this remarkable bridge was completed in the late 16th century and is lined with charming shops and local vendors offering handmade products.
PRO TIP: Be sure to stop by Rialto Market for a delightful lunch!
Market Hours:
- Fresh Produce Market (7:30 AM – 1 PM, Mon-Sat)
- Pescheria Market (7:30 AM – 1 PM, Tue-Sat)
Enjoy a concert in a deconsecrated church
One of my most cherished memories from our first three days in Venice as a couple was attending a concert in a stunning deconsecrated church. I was pregnant with our eldest son at that time, making it an unforgettable night, especially if you’re a fan of classical music.
We were fortunate to experience a live performance of Vivaldi’s Four Seasons in a historic church, a true gem of Venetian architecture!
Planning Your 3 Days in Venice
Even though Venice is a compact city (only 2 kilometers wide!), a weekend can pass quickly if you’re not organized. After booking your flights, we recommend starting your trip on the right foot by arranging transfers from Marco Polo Airport to Venice ahead of time.
Where to Sleep in Venice
Finding affordable accommodation in Venice can be challenging during peak season or specific months. If you’re planning to visit during Carnival, it’s wise to book your hotel a year in advance. Otherwise, staying farther from the main tourist areas may help you save money.
Mestre, a city just across the Lagoon, offers budget-friendly lodging options and larger hotels. For those who wish to combine a city escape with a beach break, the Venetian Riviera is an excellent choice.
If you dream of waking up in Venice itself, note that the city is divided into six districts, known as “Sestieri” in Venetian: Cannaregio, Castello, Dorsoduro, San Marco, Santa Croce, and San Polo.
Staying in Cannaregio is particularly convenient, as it’s only a few minutes away from the Venezia Santa Lucia train station.
Indulge in Italian Food and Wines
Finally, no trip to Italy would be complete without savoring delightful food and wine. Treat yourself to the rich Risotto al nero di seppia (squid ink risotto) and the delectable Bigoli in salsa, among other local delicacies.
And it’s not just pasta! Venetian cuisine is a rich tapestry of flavors: try Cicchetti, a delicious assortment of fried meatballs, small sandwiches, and various finger foods, all perfectly paired with a glass of wine or a refreshing Spritz.
Where to Find the Best Cicchetti in Venice: Our Top Picks
It’s difficult to recommend just a few places when visiting Venice for the first time, but here are our top three selections in different parts of the city.
Osteria all’Arco is located at Campo S. Polo, 436, 30125 Venezia VE, Italy
Salvmeria is located at Via Giuseppe Garibaldi, 1769, 30122 Venice VE, Italy
Osteria Al Squero is located at Dorsoduro, 943, 30123 Venezia VE
When to Visit Venice
“When is the best time of year to visit Venice?” is a common question. In actuality, if you steer clear of school holidays and festivals, Venice can be explored all year round. It’s particularly lovely in spring and has a magical charm in both autumn and winter when mist envelops the city. However, be aware of acqua alta (high water) during the colder months (November to February), when the sea level rises and results in occasional flooding.
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