one day trips from venice

12 incredible day trips from Venice

May 15, 2023 • 16 min read

Escape the clamor of Venice on a day trip © Andrea Comi / Getty Images

Venice is one of the world’s greatest cities – a floating work of art, an open-air museum, and a place that everyone wants to visit at least once in their lifetime.

But what makes it great also makes it crowded...and then some. This fragile city is the poster child for overtourism and not only is it unpleasant to be part of that, but a whistle-stop tour of the sights makes you part of the problem. Our advice? Stay longer. A week is a decent amount of time to get a feel for the real Venice, beyond the crowds, and to take a couple of day trips beyond the canals.

The Italian railway system is excellent and in this part of the country, there are regular high-speed trains that can whisk you to another world in less than half an hour. Whether you’re looking for somewhere close by or fancy a day out in another region or even in the mountains, here are some of the best places to go.

1. See world-changing art in Padova

Travel time: 26 minutes by train

If it wasn’t so close to Venice, Padova (or Padua) would be one of northern Italy’s most feted cities. As it is, not many tourists make it to the place that changed art history – yet it’s one of the easiest day trips from Venice by train. Here, in the Cappella degli Scrovegni – the chapel of the Scrovegni banking family, which now sits in a little park, just 10 minutes’ walk from the train station – Giotto spent two years from 1303 to 1305, frescoing it from top to bottom. What he produced shattered medieval artistic conventions, introducing perspective and humanizing his figures, instead of keeping them stiff and sculptural. If his Nativity and Flight to Egypt scenes are familiar, that’s because they make regular appearances on Christmas cards around the globe.

Other sights include the colossal Basilica di Santa'Antonio – where the remains of St. Anthony of Padua are kept – and Prato della Valle , a huge square (said to be Europe’s largest) where grand statues of local luminaries stand guard over a moated island (join the locals and buy a pizza at nearby Pizzeria Orsucci, going strong since 1922, and eat it in the square). Don’t miss Piazza delle Erbe, where there’s still a busy food market, both inside and out. Looking for souvenirs? La Bottega del Pane is a pantry of exceptional local foods.

How to get to Padova from Venice:  The easiest way to get there is by train. Fast trains can take as little as 26 minutes, and slower (cheaper) regional trains can take double that time.

2. Pay homage to Romeo and Juliet in Verona

Travel time: 72 minutes by train

In fair Verona , where we set our scene, little has changed since the 16th century, when Shakespeare set Romeo and Juliet here. The Piazza delle Erbe still hosts a lively market beneath its frescoed palazzos; the Adige river still loops around the elegant center; and the Giardino Giusti’s impeccably laid out garden hasn’t undergone anything more radical than a trim in 500 years. Juliet may not have existed in real life but her spirit lives on in Verona, where " Juliet’s House " – complete with balcony, of course – lures visitors, and a bronze statue is said to bring love to those who rub its breast (nobody could accuse Italy of being politically correct).

Verona may be known as a romantic getaway, but its real attraction is its Roman amphitheater, the Verona Arena , constructed from rosy-pink stone from a local quarry. Back in the day it put on gladiator battles; today, it’s rather more sophisticated, hosting an annual opera festival that’s one of Italy’s iconic summer events.

How to get to Verona from Venice:  The train is the fastest and easiest way to get there. There are fast trains (the Milan-Venice route stops at Verona) or slower, cheaper regional ones. The journey ranges between 72 minutes and nearly two and a half hours.

3. See bombastic Renaissance architecture in Vicenza

Travel time: 44 minutes by train

Just as Padova is overshadowed by Venice, Vicenza is the often overlooked sibling of nearby Verona. It wasn’t like this 500 years ago, when the local dignitaries were building palazzos, each grander than the last along what was the Roman decumanus (main drag) and is now called Corso Palladio, after Renaissance starchitect and adopted vicentino , Andrea Palladio.

Today, you can still walk along the street, just as they did – the only thing that’s changed is that it’s now pedestrianized and the “most elegant street in Europe,” according to 19th-century historian Cesare Cantù. The jewel in Vicenza’s crown, though, is the Teatro Olimpico – a jaw-dropping theatre by Palladio, its interior crafted entirely from wood, stucco and plaster to aid the acoustics. Its trompe l’oeil stage set is the oldest in the world. If you have a car, it’s worth driving around the countryside, which is littered with sumptuous villas also designed by Palladio – La Rotonda is one of the finest.

How to get to Vicenza from Venice:  Fast trains from Venice are quick (from 44 minutes) and easy, or it’s a 50-minute drive.

4. Hit the water at Lake Garda

Travel time: 93 minutes by train

Yes, you can do a day trip from Venice to Lake Garda – in fact, Italy’s largest lake makes for a fun day trip on public transport. Take the train to Desenzano , from where the (water) world is your oyster. Ferries zigzag across the lake – top stops include Lazise, a picture-perfect village on the crystal clear water; Gargnano, where you’ll find Limonaia La Malora, one of the only remaining lemon groves which Garda used to be famous for; and Limone sul Garda, where there’s a footpath cantilevered over the water on the outskirts of town.

At Sirmione, a peninsula thrusting out into the lake from the southern shore, there are the remains of a Roman villa, the Grotte di Catullo , while on a hill above Gardone Riviera is the Vittoriale , the former home of beloved Italian writer Gabriele D’Annunzio. The views from the rambling grounds (which include a warship dug into the hill) are spectacular. It’s a great family day trip but you may want to extend that into an overnight or two – it’s the perfect destination to combine with Venice.

How to get to Lake Garda from Venice:  To do it all by public transport, you can take the train to Desenzano, from where ferries depart for towns and villages around the lake. Otherwise, you can drive from Venice, rent a car at Desenzano or, if you’re sticking to the east side of the lake, Verona.

5. See a Venice without tourists at Chioggia

Travel time: 75 minutes by ferry and bus

Perched at the southern end of the Venice lagoon, Chioggia is close to Venice on a map, but getting there by road is tortuous. That’s why you should visit during summer, when one of Europe’s most beautiful public transport routes is running: the 11, which takes the form of a bus all the way along the Lido island, then transfers to a ferry across to Pellestrina, continues the length of this toothpick-thin island separating the lagoon from the Adriatic, before dropping you off for a final ferry crossing to Chioggia.

Often described as a mini Venice, Chioggia certainly shares a lot with La Serenissima – a settlement clumped over islands, linked by bridges – but where Venice has an elegant feel of decay, Chioggia is a living, working town. Instead of tourist gondolas, you’ll see fishing boats lined along the canals, and there are even cars driving along the streets. Don’t miss the church of San Domenico, where a painting of St. Paul by Renaissance artist Carpaccio sits in the dark, alongside votive paintings by fishermen. It’s a brilliantly atmospheric yet cheap day trip from Venice.

How to get to Chioggia from Venice:  Take a vaporetto from the city to the Lido, where the number 11 bus route whisks you eastwards, transfers to a ferry to Pellestrina, continues to the end of the island, and then drops you off at the ferry for Chioggia. Note that this route is only active in summer. Otherwise, it’s about an hour’s drive (but on frustratingly slow roads) south of Venice.

6. Soak up the cross-cultural history of Trieste

Travel time: One hour 50 minutes by car

It takes a while to get to Trieste – just over two hours by train, or a quicker (but stressful) drive – but it’s absolutely worth it. Reward an early start with a capo in b – a micro-sized cappuccino, served in an espresso glass. This used to be part of the Austro-Hungarian empire, so the coffee scene is more Vienna than Venice, here. Instead of downing an espresso at the bar, people sit down with a newspaper to savour their break. Caffe degli Specchi is the place to go – it sits on Piazza Unità d’Italia , one of Italy’s most spectacular squares, with frothy Habsburg-era buildings on three sides, and the sparkling Gulf of Trieste on the fourth.

Wander the old city – home to Roman ruins and the 15 th -century Castello di San Giusto , which has spectacular views over the water – then head northwest from the center to Miramare , a fairytale castle of gleaming white stone, cantilevered over the water. On the way back into town, take a dip; the sidewalk doubles as a sun terrace, where the Triestini lay their towels, sunbathe, and hop in the calm waters of the Gulf to cool off.

How to get to Trieste from Venice:  It’s quickest to drive, at around 1 hour 50 minutes, but the road’s a busy autostrada  with tolls. Better to take the slower but scenic train, which weaves around the lagoons at the very northern tip of the Adriatic Sea.

7. Travel back in time to mysterious Ferrara

Travel time: About one hour by train

Often mist-swirled and always mysterious, Ferrara is a time machine back to the Renaissance period. The Castello Estense , the ominous brick castle of the Este dynasty, dominates the city – today you can go for a boat ride in the moat that once separated the family from their citizens and mooch through the castle which, 500-odd years ago, was one of Italy’s cultural capitals. Fancy a taste of their lifestyle? Much of Ferrara’s traditional food comes from the Este family’s Renaissance cookbook – try pasticcio, a sweet-pastry pie filled with macaroni cheese, meat ragù and bechamel sauce, and salama da sugo, a spicy kind of sausage, served with mash and said to be Lucrezia Borgia’s favorite food. Both are acquired tastes, but a fascinating glimpse into how they ate hundreds of years ago.

Ferrara’s Palazzo dei Diamanti , an exhibition space in a 15 th -century palace whose façade is studded with diamond-shaped stones, reopened in 2023 after two years of closure. It was originally damaged in the 2012 earthquake, along with much of the city. Check out its website for what’s on during your visit – its exhibitions are usually top notch and well worth the trip.

Until the Second World War, Ferrara had a renowned Jewish community; this was the setting for The Garden of the Finzi-Continis , by Giorgio Bassani, and you can still wander the narrow streets of what used to be the Jewish quarter. Learn the history of the community – both here and more widely in Italy – at the exceptional MEIS , or National Museum of Italian Judaism and the Shoah.

How to get to Ferrara from Venice:  It’s easiest to go by rail. High-speed trains take just over an hour, while regional ones are around 90 minutes. Otherwise, it’s an easy 75-minute drive along the autostrada, but it’s a toll road and city center parking is expensive.

8. Eat some of Italy’s best food in Bologna

Where to go from Venice by train? Further than you think. By high-speed rail, it’s easy to turn Italy’s culinary capital into a daytrip. Step off the Frecciarossa (“red arrow” train) into La Rossa (“the red” – one of Bologna’s nicknames, along with “the learned” and “the fat”), for a day of shameless indulgence.

Wander the streets of the Quadrilatero  (home to food stalls since the medieval period), take a pasta-making class (we like the offerings at Salumeria Bruno e Franco ), and end with an aperitivo on Piazza Maggiore, Bologna’s main square, where a hulking naked statue-fountain of Neptune dominates one side, and the Basilica di San Petronio , a barn-like church, dominates the other. Any of the restaurants will do you proud – must-try dishes are tagliatelle al ragù, tortellini in brodo (tiny pasta pockets filled with a meaty, cheesy stuffing and swimming in broth), and cotoletta alla petroniana, or alla bolognese – a veal cutlet swathed in prosciutto, layered with cheese, then baked to oozing perfection.

How to get to Bologna from Venice:  It’s easiest by train – high-speed Frecciarossa trains can whisk you there in just over an hour and a half. It’s roughly the same by car, though you should add autostrada tolls and the road is quite monotonous.

9. Climb into the Dolomites at Cortina d’Ampezzo

Travel time: Two hours by car

Within a two-hour drive from Venice, you can be in the heart of the Dolomites . Head due north, and within an hour you’ll be winding up through mountain passes towards Pieve di Cadore, the birthplace of Renaissance painter Titian (his birthplace is now a museum, and there are paintings by his artist family in the local church). From there, fork west, hugging the mountainsides, to Cortina d’Ampezzo .

This is one of Italy’s chi-chiest ski resorts, but there’s plenty to do year round, from hiking to eating (try the Michelin-starred SanBrite , whose owners source all their ingredients locally). This is part of the Ladin community, an ancient population of the mountains that have their own language and traditions. Learn about the Ladins, and the Regole – essentially a collection of centuries-standing families who "govern" the town – at the Ethnographic Museum, housed in an old sawmill.

How to get to Cortina d’Ampezzo from Venice:  This is definitely one to drive. The two hours by car (or 80 minutes from Venice Marco Polo airport) changes to a minimum of five and a half by public transport and you’ll have to change at least twice.

10. Wallow in volcanic mud in the Euganean Hills

Travel time: 45 minutes by car or train

The wider region around Venice, Veneto , tends to be pretty flat except where the landscape rears up towards the Dolomites. This is one of the exceptions – a group of cone-like volcanic hills, 81 of them to be precise, rearing up from the plains south of Padova.

Of course, their volcanic origin should give you a hint that Italy’s famous thermal spas will be nearby. The small, neighboring towns of Montegrotto and Abano are home to various springs and spas that have been going since Roman times. Today, along with other nearby towns Galzignano, Battaglia and Teolo, they’re said to form the oldest, and largest, thermal spa in Europe, with 240 thermal pools between them. One of our favorites is the Abano Ritz Hotel Terme – family- and female-owned for three generations. The thermal mud they use in balneotherapy treatments comes from right beside the hotel and the pools in their 6,000-square-meter waterpark stay a constant 33 degrees (91.4F), thanks to the thermal waters that spent 25 years and 100km (62 miles) underground before gushing out here.

Don’t spend all your time wallowing, though – the whole area is designated the Euganean Hills Regional Park, and there are trails for hiking, biking and horse-riding, as well as breathtaking views from behind the wheel if you prefer a road trip. Visit one of the sprawling Renaissance country villas on offer (try Villa Barbarigo , known as the hills’ answer to Versailles, near Galzignano). Can’t go to Italy without seeing some Roman remains? You’ll find bits of 2000-year-old spas at Montegrotto and Abano.

How to get to the Euganean Hills from Venice:  Trains take between 37 minutes and an hour to reach the Terme Euganee-Abano-Montegrotto station, which serves the spa towns. If you want to explore the park, though, you’ll need a car – it’s about a 45-minute drive from Venice.

11. Wind back the centuries at Aquileia

Travel time: 80 minutes by car

Across the border in Friuli Venezia Giulia and en route to Trieste is this fascinating time capsule, where the history of the northern Adriatic is layered like a lasagne. Now a Unesco World Heritage site, this was one of the richest cities of the early Roman Empire before it was destroyed by the Huns in the fifth century CE. There’s not a lot from that era visible, since most of it lies unexcavated below fields, although the Roman river port is fascinating in its detail.

What you’re really going for is the later history – the basilica , dating back to the fourth century and rebuilt in the medieval period after an earthquake. The original mosaic floor was saved from damage and today it’s an astonishing, colorful carpet of early Christian artwork, with astonishingly vivid depictions of Bible stories like the Good Shepherd and Jonah and the whale, in between cameos of rich Roman locals, and lagoon wildlife.

How to get to Aquileia from Venice:  The easiest way to get there is by car; it’s about an hour and 20 minutes’ drive from Venice, and about two thirds of the way to Trieste. By public transport you’ll need to take a train to Cervignano-Aquileia-Grado and then swap to a bus – the journey takes just over two hours.

12. Visit Venice’s inland empire at Treviso

Travel time: 31 minutes by train

These days, Treviso is best known for its airport, home to budget airlines galore, but there’s nothing low-end about the town itself. Elegant, petite and pretty, Treviso is still a place for residents rather than tourists, and a walk around its calm centro storico is like one big exhale if you’ve come from crowded Venice. Once part of the Stato da Tera, Venice’s historic inland empire, it’s curiously similar to La Serenissima – all porticoes, art-filled churches and elegant palazzos – only without canals taking center stage (though there are a few – the Canale dei Buranelli, sweeping through the center, is the prettiest).

Don’t miss the Fontana delle Tette , a fountain in the shape of a naked woman which used to spout wine from her breasts – white from one, and red from the other – every time a new mayor was sworn in. The original has been moved to the Palazzo dei Trecento, the 13th-century castle-like building dominating the Piazza dei Signori but there’s a replica in situ just off Calmaggiore, the main street dating back to Roman times. The church of San Nicolò is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture, which you won’t find much in Venice.

How to get to Treviso from Venice: Trains run every half hour or so, and take 30-40 minutes to Treviso Centrale. Otherwise, it’s a simple, if not particularly scenic, 40-minute drive from Piazzale Roma.

This article was first published Mar 18, 2019 and updated May 15, 2023.

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Home » Travel Guides » Italy » 15 Best Day Trips From Venice

15 Best Day Trips From Venice

Venice is a uniquely charming city, set on the canals and waterways of northern Italy.

It has a well-deserved place on many people’s Europe bucket list, for its gondolas and piazzas, its world-renowned food and intricate artisanal masks.

The city has plenty to keep you occupied, as even simply wandering its labyrinthine streets leads to new discoveries each day, but for the restless traveller, there is also plenty to explore beyond the water, in Italy as a whole.

If you find yourself getting sick of its shady streets, there are definitely options for you.

Here are 15 of the best day trips to take while on your trip to Venice.

1. Lake Garda

From one water-bound attraction to another, Lake Garda is without doubt Italy’s most famous, as well as largest, lake.

Surrounded by lemon trees, magnolia, cypresses and olive trees, Lake Garda exudes a Mediterranean vibe, and is just as relaxing as it sounds.

Enjoy a boat ride across the lake, or stroll along the shore, before exploring the lakeside town of Sirmione or the medieval jewel of Lazise.

If you have time, visit the nearby producers of olive oil, and learn about their traditional methods of production.

2. Murano, Torcello and Burano islands

Venice’s own islands of Murano, Torcello and Burano deserve a separate day trip to fully appreciate and explore what they have to offer.

Glass blowing, lace production and embroidery are just a few of the attractions of these picturesque islands, with each in turn having their own highlight.

Visit the glass factory in Murano and watch a display of great artistry from the glass blowers, who will craft molten glass into dainty ornaments right before your eyes.

Pay a visit to Torcello, the oldest of the inhabited islands, and finish up in Burano, whose lace making is renowned.

Near to Lake Garda is fair Verona, made famous by Shakespeare but more than maintaining its popularity through sheer charm and beauty.

Verona was of course the setting for the most popular of Shakespeare’s plays, Romeo and Juliet, and a highlight of any visit is spotting the balcony from which Juliet wondered ‘wherefore art thou Romeo?’

Head into the city’s historical centre to check out its many picturesque piazzas and the famed Mazzanti houses.

Then take a walk along the river or stop by the Basilica or Verona’s Duomo to marvel at its impressive architecture.

By train, a day trip to Padua is a fantastic option from Venice.

Padua has intrigue as well as all the hallmarks of Italian towns: beautiful architecture, vast open piazzas, art and excellent cuisine.

One of the most interesting highlights of a Padua trip is wandering through its former ghetto, which also houses the only Synagogue still in use in Padua today.

The Cappella Degli Scrovegni is another point of interest, which is home to many exquisite 14th century works of art, including those of Giotto.

5. Prosecco Region

One of Italy’s most famous exports, a Prosecco tour is a must-do on a trip to Italy.

Only around an hour’s drive from Venice, the scenery on the journey there is jaw-dropping, and of course the reward on arrival is a taste of those renowned bubbles.

The hills of the Prosecco valley are a great location to learn about the whole process of wine-making, from picking the perfect grapes, to pressing them, fermenting them, and finally bottling the finished products.

You’ll get the chance to wander round well-stocked cellars and perhaps choose the perfect tipple to pair with your lunch.

6. Florence

Thanks to the advent of high speed trains, a trip to Florence from Venice is well within the reach of a day tripper.

Just two hours away from Venice, Florence holds great treasures for tourists.

From the glorious art hosted by the world-renowned Uffizi Gallery and the city at large, to the towering Duomo offering panoramic views of the landscape, there will be plenty to keep you entertained.

If marvelling at Renaissance paintings and sculpture isn’t really your thing, you can always while away the hours wandering through Florence’s attractive streets, from the Ponte Vecchio where the high-class Medici family trod centuries ago, to the Piazza della Liberta.

7. Venice Lido

Venice’s Lido necessitates its own day trip in order to soak up the requisite number of rays, and it’s definitely a relaxing way to spend a day out.

It’s a ferry ride away, but well worth it for the glory of sun, sea and sand.

If seaside lounging, reading, sunbathing, swimming and sipping mojitos isn’t quite enough entertainment for you, a diverting way to spend the afternoon might be to explore by bike.

Cycle along the lagoon, spot the myriad tiny islands in its centre, and make sure to check out the massive, impressive fortress of Murazzi, built in the 18th century.

The medieval town of Siena is a Tuscan gem, and at just over three hours’ drive from Venice it’s not too far a stretch to visit for the day.

Home to the famed Palio Horse Race, Siena offers more than just the main square, Piazza del Campo: it has a 12th century cathedral and myriad narrow cobbled streets among which you can happily lose yourself.

Siena’s gothic architecture lends a sense of grandeur to even the dreariest days.

If nothing else, divert yourself in Siena with some delicious gelato, for which Italy is world-renowned, and sit in the piazza to watch the world go by.

Yet another historical town famed for its architecture, Vicenza’s main draw is its buildings designed by celebrated 16th century architect Andrea Palladio.

The Teatro Olimpico is the key attraction of the town, as Palladio’s last work, but the Villa La Rotunda and the Basilica Palladiana also provide excellent examples of Palladian design.

The town’s shady parks and narrow streets lend it a relaxed air, and to top it off the views from the the Santuario di Monte Berico are breathtaking, and can be reached by a covered walkway.

10. Amarone

Nestled in between Lake Garda and Verona, the Valpolicella Valley produces excellent wines including Amarone and Recioto.

The drive along narrow winding roads to reach this destination is a real treat, passing through scenery replete with villas, olive groves and of course wineries.

Take advice from a well-versed sommelier and cheese taster on which cheeses to pair with which drinks, and dine on a traditional lunch at a 15th century cantina; an experience in itself.

11. San Gimignano

Tuscany has a multitude of quaint towns tucked away amid its hills and scenic countryside, and one of the most beautiful is San Gimignano.

A medieval jewel, San Gimignano is a UNESCO world heritage site, with plenty to keep visitors occupied.

Known for its wine, saffron, and finely crafted pottery, you can find many ways to entertain yourself in its crooked side streets.

It’s also an arresting sight on the approach, with a skyline towering above the trees.

If one Tuscan town isn’t enough for you, you can also take the opportunity to visit nearby Siena or explore further afield in the Chianti countryside.

12. The Dolomites

Italy’s north-eastern Veneto region holds much more than just the waterways of Venice.

Even aside from its popular wineries, nature has much more to offer: namely, the Dolomites.

Explore up into the fresh air of the mountains, visiting key highlights such as Cortina, Lake Auronzo and Lake Misurina.

Keep your cameras at the ready as you wind through valleys and power up steep mountain roads, reaching a peak of over 7,700 feet.

If the weather allows, a quick trip up in the cable car from Cortina up to Faloria is well worth it, offering panoramic views from its lofty peak.

13. Ravenna

Charming Ravenna has been given the accolade of UNESCO World Heritage status for its stunning mosaics.

Ravenna was of great importance during the era in which the Byzantine and Roman empires mixed.

Perhaps the best thing about Ravenna is that it isn’t as swarmed with tourists as other Italian destinations are: it’s not on just anyone’s list.

On the way to or from Ravenna, you can also choose to visit the impressive Pomposa Abbey, build around the 10th century by members of the Benedictine community.

14. Venetian Villas at Padova and Asolo

What better way to dive deeper into your exploration of Venice itself than to visit its outskirts, and learn about a region that belonged to the Republic of Venice centuries ago? Journey along the Brenta Canal and tour your way through the villas alongside it, built by holidaying Venetians in days gone by.

Head out to Padova, with its pretty university, and find a chapel inlaid with frescoes by Giotto.

Afterwards, move on to Asolo, set back into the hills, which was the location for the court of the Queen of Cyprus and later played host to the writer Ernest Hemingway.

15. Trieste

Trieste offers something a little different from the rest of the Venice day trips on offer.

Its complex history and geographical position has lent it a huge variety of influences, and indeed it was only returned to Italian possession in 1954. From its castles to its square, its seafront to its myriad churches, there’s heaps to explore in this beautiful city.

Missed off many a travel plan, Trieste is certainly underrated given its easy elegance and abundance of cultural activities on offer – and certainly a good option for a visit from Venice.

15 Best Day Trips From Venice:

• Murano, Torcello and Burano islands
• Prosecco Region
• Venice Lido
• San Gimignano
• The Dolomites
• Venetian Villas at Padova and Asolo

Venice Revealed

13 of the Best Day Trips from Venice: Go Beyond the Lagoon

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Venice, the city of canals, is undoubtedly one of the most enchanting places on earth. 

But the magic of the Veneto region extends far beyond its capital. From the shimmering waters of Lake Garda to the medieval charm of Verona, Northern Italy is a treasure trove of diverse landscapes, rich history, and mouthwatering cuisine. 

For those who wish to delve deeper into the travel experience, embarking on a day trip from Venice opens up a world of possibilities. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or a foodie , there’s a destination waiting to captivate your senses. 

If you are staying for more than a couple of days , a day trip from Venice is a great idea. So, let’s set sail from the Grand Canal and discover the best day trips from Venice.

1 – The Lido (Venice Lagoon)

Just a short boat ride away from the bustling heart of Venice lies the serene island of Lido di Venezia . Known for its tranquil beaches and Art Nouveau architecture, Lido offers a refreshing contrast to the crowded streets and canals of Venice. This thin strip of land, stretching between the Adriatic Sea and the Venetian Lagoon, is one of the best day trips from Venice for those seeking a blend of relaxation and cultural exploration.

Attractions

Lido is famous for its sandy beaches , which provide a perfect setting for a beach day. The island is also home to the Venice Film Festival, which takes place at the historic Palazzo del Cinema every September. For architecture enthusiasts, a stroll around the island reveals a collection of beautiful villas and hotels showcasing the elegant Liberty style, Italy’s version of Art Nouveau. The Santa Maria Elisabetta area, with its charming shops and cafes, offers a glimpse into the everyday life of the locals.

Of course, the best reason to go to the Lido is to hit the beach. The most popular one, the Alberoni , is a protected nature reserve and feels very far away from the crowds of Venice. 

Getting There and Best Time to Visit

Reaching Lido from Venice is a pleasant ride on a vaporetto (water bus) that takes about half an hour. The best time to visit Lido is during the summer months when you can fully enjoy the beaches. However, if you wish to avoid the crowds, spring and early autumn are also lovely times to explore the island.

Check out the full article on the best times to visit Venice!

Food and Drink Experiences

Lido offers a variety of dining options where you can savor Venetian cuisine. Seafood is a staple here, with local restaurants serving fresh fish and shellfish dishes. For a unique food experience, try the traditional Venetian dish, sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines). Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy a glass of Prosecco, the famous sparkling wine from the Veneto region.

2 – Murano and Burano (Venice Lagoon)

A visit to Venice would not be complete without a day trip to the enchanting Venetian lagoon islands of Murano and Burano. These islands are just a short boat ride away from Venice and offer a unique glimpse into the region’s rich artisanal heritage.

Murano is world-renowned for its long-standing tradition of glassmaking. The island is dotted with glass factories, many of which offer a glass blowing demonstration. Visitors can watch master glassblowers at work, transforming molten glass into intricate sculptures, chandeliers, and jewelry. The Glass Museum (Museo del Vetro) is a must-visit, showcasing the history of glassmaking and stunning examples of Murano glass.

Read my full guide on the things to do in Murano!

Burano, on the other hand, is famous for its lace making and brightly colored houses. The island’s lace is known for its exquisite quality and intricate designs. The Lace Museum (Museo del Merletto) provides fascinating insights into the island’s lace-making history. Walking around Burano, you’ll be charmed by the vibrant houses that line its canals, each painted a different color.

Getting There, Best Time to Visit, and Local Customs

Both Murano and Burano are easily accessible day trips from Venice by vaporetto . The best time to visit these islands is in the spring and fall when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are smaller.

In terms of local customs, it’s important to respect the privacy of the residents. While the colorful houses of Burano are incredibly photogenic, remember that they are people’s homes. Always be respectful when taking photos.

Both islands offer delightful food and drink experiences. In Murano, be sure to try a ‘bussolà’, a traditional Venetian biscuit that’s perfect with a cup of coffee . In Burano, don’t miss the chance to taste the island’s famous ‘Bussolà Buranello’, a donut-shaped cookie that’s a local favorite. Seafood lovers will also enjoy the fresh fish and shellfish dishes served in the islands’ restaurants. Pair your meal with a glass of Veneto’s famous Prosecco for a truly Venetian dining experience.

3 – Sant’erasmo (Venice Lagoon)

Sant’erasmo, often referred to as the “Garden of Venice,” is a tranquil island in the Venetian Lagoon. It’s a fantastic day trip for those seeking a break from the bustling city life of Venice. The lagoon island is renowned for its lush landscapes, vineyards, and orchards, producing a variety of fruits and vegetables, including the famous Sant’erasmo artichokes. 

The island also offers beautiful views of the lagoon and Venice in the distance.

How to Get There, Best Time to Visit, and What to Do

Getting to Sant’erasmo is a pleasant ride on the vaporetto (water bus) from Venice, taking about half an hour. The best time to visit is during the spring and summer months when the island’s vegetation is in full bloom. Once there, you can rent bikes to explore the island’s natural beauty, visit the Torre Massimiliana, a historic tower now converted into a cultural center, or simply enjoy a leisurely walk along the beach.

Unique Food and Drink Experiences in Sant’erasmo

Sant’erasmo offers a unique culinary experience, thanks to its agricultural richness. Don’t miss the chance to taste the island’s renowned artichokes, usually served fresh in local dishes. The island also produces its own wine, so a wine tasting is a must-do for wine lovers.

Accommodation Options for Extended Stays

While Sant’erasmo is typically visited as a day trip from Venice, those wishing to stay longer can find accommodation options on the island. There are a few charming bed and breakfasts that offer a peaceful retreat amidst the island’s natural beauty. 

Staying on the island provides a unique opportunity to experience the everyday life of the locals in this serene part of the Venetian Lagoon.

Remember to always check the availability and book in advance, especially during the peak tourist season.

4 – Bologna (Emilia Romagna)

Bologna, the capital of the Emilia Romagna region, is a city that’s rich in history and culture. Known as “La Dotta” (The Learned), “La Grassa” (The Fat), and “La Rossa” (The Red), Bologna is a city of many faces. It’s home to the oldest university in the world, the University of Bologna, which was founded in 1088 and has a student population that brings a youthful energy to the city.

Major Sites

Bologna is renowned for its beautiful and historic architecture. The Piazza Maggiore is a sprawling square that’s surrounded by some of the city’s most important buildings, including the Basilica of San Petronio, one of the largest churches in the world, and the Palazzo del Podesta, a historic city hall. 

The city is also famous for its porticoes, covered walkways that line the streets of the city center, and the Two Towers, the Asinelli and the Garisenda, which are the city’s main symbols.

The Journey from Venice

Bologna is conveniently located and is easily accessible from Venice. The journey by train takes about an hour and a half, making it a feasible day trip. The city’s main train station is located about 20 minutes’ walk from the Piazza Maggiore, and the route will take you past many of the city’s beautiful old buildings and impressive architecture.

Bologna is often considered the culinary capital of Italy , and for good reason. The city is the birthplace of many famous Italian dishes, such as tortellini, lasagna, and ragu (the meat sauce that’s often referred to as Bolognese sauce). The city is also known for its cured meats, cheeses, and wines. 

When in Bologna, be sure to visit one of the city’s many trattorias to experience authentic Bolognese cuisine.

5 – Bassano del Grappa (Veneto)

Nestled in a picturesque setting with the foothills of the Alps rising behind it and the Brenta River flowing through it, Bassano del Grappa is a charming city that makes for a fantastic day trip from Venice. The city boasts a rich history, with architectural wonders dating back to the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. It is also famed for its production of the potent grappa spirit.

The heart of life in Bassano del Grappa is centered around Piazza Garibaldi and Piazza della Liberta. However, the city’s most popular attraction is the beautiful Ponte degli Alpini , a wooden bridge offering stunning views of the river and the city. It’s an ideal spot for capturing memorable photos.

Journey from Venice

Bassano del Grappa is located to the northwest of Venice and is easily accessible by public transport. A direct train line connects the two cities, with trains departing frequently. The journey takes approximately an hour and 15 minutes, and once you arrive, the scenic city center is just a short stroll away.

For a more immersive experience, consider taking a guided tour. This is a great way to get a feel for the lovely Venetian hill towns. With stops at Bassano del Grappa, Asolo, and Marostica included, alongside prosecco tasting at a local vineyard and a visit to a Palladian villa, it promises to be an action-packed day out.

Unique Food and Drink Experiences

Bassano del Grappa is renowned for its production of grappa , a strong Italian spirit. A visit to Bassano del Grappa would be incomplete without a tasting session. The city also offers a variety of local dishes that are worth trying, such as “bigoli”, a type of pasta often served with duck ragu.

6 – Chioggia (Veneto)

Chioggia, often referred to as “Little Venice,” is a charming town located in the Veneto region, about an hour away from Venice. This medieval town is nestled on two islands, separated by the ‘Channel Vena,’ and is known for its vibrant fishing and port activities. It’s a fantastic day trip from Venice, offering a glimpse into the everyday life of a traditional Italian fishing town.

Chioggia is a treasure trove of historical and cultural attractions. Start your visit at the arcaded Piazzetta Vigo, where you’ll find the Vigo Bridge and a high column with the Lion of Saint Mark. 

Not far from here is the 14th-century Palace of the Granaio Pubblico, a neo-gothic style building with beautiful windows with pointed arches. Behind the palace is the fish market, a Chioggia landmark, where you can find fresh fish of various species.

The town is also home to several beautiful churches, including the Church of Saint Andrew with its 12th-century bell tower, the Holy Trinity Church with important paintings by Palma il Giovane and Andrea Vicentino, and the 13th-century Church of Saint Dominic which includes a 16th-century painting by Vittore Carpaccio.

How to Get There and Best Time to Visit

Chioggia is easily accessible by public transport from Venice. You can take a direct train line from Venice’s Santa Lucia train station to Chioggia. The journey takes about an hour and a half. The best time to visit Chioggia is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the town is less crowded.

Chioggia offers a wide range of local specialities based on seafood. Try the ‘granseole’ (crab meat with olive oil, lemon, and spices), ‘bigoli in salsa’ (spaghetti with garlic sauce, oil, onion, parsley, and anchovy fillets), and the so-called ‘black cuttlefish’ (squid cut and boiled in a sauté onion, garlic, white wine, and tomatoes). Don’t miss the ‘Festival of salt-water fish’ that takes place during the first ten days of July, where you can enjoy local products and a few glasses of Merlot, Cabernet, Prosecco, and Soave.

7 – Verona (Veneto)

Verona, famously known as the setting for Shakespeare’s “ Romeo and Juliet ,” is a city in the Veneto region of Italy that is rich in history and culture. It’s a medieval city that effortlessly combines its historical past with a vibrant present. I highly recommend a Verona day trip as it is one of my favorite cities in Northern Italy. 

Verona is home to a number of significant historical sites. The Roman Arena, an enormous amphitheater that dates back to the 1st century AD, is one of the best-preserved of its kind. Despite its age, the Arena is still in use today, hosting concerts and operas. 

The city is also home to the Ponte Scaligero, a beautiful bridge that was rebuilt after World War II.

The city’s most famous site is Juliet’s House, which draws visitors from around the world who wish to stand on the famous balcony and declare their love. The city is also home to numerous beautiful churches and piazzas, including the ornate San Zeno Maggiore Church and the bustling Piazza delle Erbe.

Verona is conveniently located just over an hour’s high speed train ride west of Venice, making it an easy day trip. Trains depart frequently from Venice Santa Lucia train station, and upon arrival in Verona, you’ll find yourself just a short walk from the city’s historic center.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Verona is in the spring (April to June) or fall (September to October) when the weather is mild and the city is less crowded with tourists. The summer months can be quite hot, and the city is often crowded with tourists.

Verona is known for its excellent cuisine and wine. The city is particularly famous for its risotto, which is often served with Amarone wine, a rich red wine that is produced in the region. Other local specialties include pastissada de caval, a horse meat stew, and pandoro, a sweet bread that is traditionally served at Christmas.

8 – Lake Garda (Lombardy/Veneto)

Lake Garda, nestled between Lombardy and Veneto, is Italy’s largest lake and a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. With its clear blue waters, charming lakeside towns, and stunning mountain backdrop, Lake Garda is a perfect day trip from Venice.

Attractions and Activities

Lake Garda is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy a variety of water sports, including sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking. For those who prefer land-based activities, the surrounding area offers excellent hiking and biking trails.

There is an elevated bike path that hugs the cliffs of the river’s edge suspended above the water. The views are incredible and it is a ride you’ll never forget. 

The blue lake is dotted with picturesque towns and villages, each with its unique charm. Desenzano del Garda, at the southern tip of the lake, is known for its lively atmosphere and beautiful beaches. Sirmione, located on a peninsula extending into the lake, is famous for its medieval castle and thermal baths.

A Lake Garda day trip would not be complete without a trip to Gardaland, Italy’s largest amusement park, which offers fun for the whole family.

Getting There and Around

Lake Garda is about a two-hour drive from Venice. There are also direct train lines from Venice to Desenzano del Garda and Peschiera del Garda, both located on the southern shore of the lake. Once you’re there, you can get around by car, bus, or ferry. 

The Lake Garda ferry service is a pleasant and convenient way to explore the different towns and attractions around the lake making it one of the most fun day trips.

The best time to visit Lake Garda is from April to October when the Northern Italy weather is warm and most attractions are open. However, the lake is beautiful all year round, and a visit in the off-season allows you to enjoy its beauty without the crowds.

Food and Drink

Lake Garda is renowned for its local cuisine, which features fresh fish from the lake and delicious wines from the surrounding vineyards. Try “trout in carpione,” a traditional dish of marinated trout, or “risotto con tinca,” a risotto with tench, a fish native to the lake. 

For wine lovers, a visit to a local winery for a tasting of the region’s famous Bardolino or Lugana wines is a must.

Accommodation

If you decide to extend your stay, Lake Garda offers a wide range of accommodation options. From luxury hotels with stunning lake views to cozy bed and breakfasts in the charming lakeside towns, there’s something to suit every taste and budget. 

For a unique experience, consider staying in a historic villa or a modern eco-friendly resort.

9 – Padua (Veneto)

Padua, or Padova as it’s known in Italy, is a charming city in the Veneto region, just a short train ride away from Venice. Known for its ancient university and rich history, Padua offers a unique blend of historic sights, vibrant student life, and modern business. It’s a city where you can wander through historic streets, admire stunning architecture, and enjoy a variety of cultural experiences.

Padua’s biggest tourist attraction is the Scrovegni Chapel (Cappella degli Scrovegni), renowned for its priceless frescoes by Giotto. The Basilica of St. Anthony of Padua, known simply as Il Santo, is another must-visit site. Beyond these two, the city is filled with numerous other historic sights, art galleries, and parks.

Padua is easily accessible from Venice by train, with the journey taking only about 20-40 minutes depending on the type of train you take. The city’s train station is located just north of the town center, making it convenient for visitors to start exploring right away.

Padua can be visited year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is mild and the city is less crowded.

Padua offers a variety of unique food and drink experiences. The city is known for its traditional Italian cuisine, with a variety of restaurants and bars offering everything from quick snacks to substantial meals. For a refreshing afternoon treat, try some high-quality ice cream from Grom on Via Roma, a new Italian institution loved by Slow Food aficionados.

10 – Vicenza (Veneto)

Nestled in the heart of the Veneto region, Vicenza is a hidden gem that’s often overlooked by tourists. Known as the “City of Gold” due to its long-standing tradition in goldsmithing, Vicenza is also famous for its unique architectural style, largely influenced by the renowned 16th-century architect Andrea Palladio. This has led to the city’s designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts.

Attractions in Vicenza

Vicenza is home to numerous grand buildings designed by Palladio and his followers. The most famous among these is the Villa La Rotunda and Teatro Olimpico, Palladio’s last work, which was completed by his son and then by Vincenzo Scamozzi. This theatre, modeled on ancient Roman theatres, boasts a curved amphitheatre, graded stepped seating, and lavish ornamentation.

Another notable landmark is the Basilica Palladiana, the town’s medieval law courts, featuring an imposing facade by Palladio. The city’s heart, Piazza dei Signori, is dominated by these two striking landmarks.

For art lovers, the Gothic Church of Santa Corona houses works by Giovanni Bellini and Paolo Veronese. And for a panoramic view of the area, a walk or bus ride uphill to the Santuario di Monte Berico is highly recommended.

Journey from Venice and Best Time to Visit

Vicenza can be reached in 45 minutes from Venice by taking one of the high speed trains; a cheaper option will take just over an hour. The city’s compact town center and attractive villas in the hills a short walk away make it a fantastic day trip from Venice. The best time to visit Vicenza is during spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is most pleasant.

Keep in mind that in August many of the shops and restaurants will be closed for a week or two. 

Unique Food and Drink Experiences in Vicenza

Vicenza offers a variety of unique food and drink experiences. The city is known for its traditional dishes like “baccalà alla vicentina” (salted cod cooked with milk, onions, and anchovies) and “bigoli” (a type of thick spaghetti usually served with duck ragu). For wine lovers, a visit to a local winery to taste the regional wines like the white Soave or the red Valpolicella is a must.

11 – Trieste (Friuli Venezia Giulia)

Trieste, the capital of the Friuli Venezia Giulia region, is a charming city located in northeastern Italy and offers one of the most unique day trips from Venice. It’s a unique blend of Italian, Slovenian, and Austrian cultures due to its location near the Slovenian border and its history as part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The city is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant café culture.

Getting There

Trieste is easily accessible from Venice by train. The journey takes about 2 hours, making it a perfect day trip destination. The city’s train station, Trieste Centrale, is conveniently located near the city center.

Things to Do

Once in Trieste, there are plenty of things to see and do. Start your visit at Piazza Unità d’Italia, one of the largest sea-facing squares in Europe. From there, you can easily reach the city’s main attractions. Visit the stunning Miramare Castle, which offers breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea. Explore the Roman Theatre, a testament to Trieste’s ancient history. 

Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the iconic Trieste Cathedral and the impressive Risiera di San Sabba, a former rice-husking factory turned concentration camp during World War II is also worth visiting.

Trieste is famous for its café culture. Make sure to visit one of the city’s historic coffee houses, such as Caffè San Marco or Caffè degli Specchi, and try a traditional Triestine coffee. For lunch or dinner, enjoy local specialties like jota (a hearty bean and sauerkraut soup), gnocchi di susine (plum dumplings), or fresh seafood dishes. Pair your meal with a glass of local Friulano wine.

Trieste is a walkable city, so comfortable shoes are a must. The city is also known for its strong winds, especially the Bora wind, so be prepared with a light jacket or windbreaker. Lastly, while Italian is the official language, you’ll also hear Slovenian and German spoken, reflecting the city’s multicultural heritage.

12 – Piran (Slovenia)

Piran, a charming town located on the Adriatic coast, is a hidden gem that makes for an unforgettable day trip from Venice. This Slovenian town is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, narrow alleys, and stunning views of the sea. Its unique appeal lies in its Venetian Gothic architecture, reminiscent of Venice itself, and its picturesque setting on a narrow peninsula.

Piran is a town where history and culture are intertwined with everyday life. The town’s main square, Tartinijev Trg, is a beautiful marble-paved area that was once the inner harbor. The square is adorned with a statue of a nattily dressed man, adding to its charm.

The Cathedral of St George, with its free-standing bell tower modeled on the campanile of San Marco in Venice, offers a panoramic view of the town and the sea. The Venetian House, a red mid-15th-century Gothic structure with tracery windows and a balcony, is another eye-catching structure in Piran.

For those interested in history, the Sergej Mašera Maritime Museum and the Mediadom Pyrhani, a multimedia, interactive museum, offer insights into Piran’s maritime history and overall historical story.

Getting to Piran from Venice involves a pleasant ferry ride across the Adriatic Sea. There are several ferry services available that offer a direct line to this beautiful city in Slovenia. The journey takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, making it a feasible day trip.

The best time to visit Piran is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the town is less crowded. Summer can be quite busy, but it’s also when the town is most vibrant.

Unique Food and Drink Experiences in Piran

Piran offers a variety of unique food and drink experiences. The town is known for its seafood restaurants, where you can enjoy fresh fish caught in the Adriatic Sea. Don’t miss out on trying the local olive oil and Piran sea salt, which are considered among the best in the world.

For wine lovers, a visit to the nearby vineyards for a wine tasting session is a must. The region is known for its Refošk and Malvazija wines.

While Piran is perfect for a day trip, it also offers a range of accommodation options for those who wish to extend their stay. From luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses, there’s something for every traveler. Some popular options include the Hotel Piran, located on the seafront, and the more budget-friendly Hostel Piran. 

Staying overnight allows you to experience the town’s enchanting atmosphere after the day-trippers have left.

13 – Prosecco Region and Prosecco Road

The Prosecco region, located in the Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia regions of Italy, is a sparkling wine lover’s paradise. The area is renowned for its production of Prosecco, a bubbly white wine that has gained international acclaim. The lovely countryside is characterized by rolling hills covered in vineyards, charming villages, and historic wineries.

The Prosecco Road, or “Strada del Prosecco,” is a scenic route that winds through the heart of the Prosecco region. 

The road stretches from Conegliano to Valdobbiadene, passing through picturesque landscapes and offering stunning views of the vineyards and the surrounding countryside. Whether you travel the route by bike or car, you’ll find numerous wineries where you can stop for a tasting and learn about the traditional methods of Prosecco production.

Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply a lover of beautiful landscapes, the Prosecco region and the Prosecco Road offers one of the best day trips from Venice. The area is easily accessible from Venice, making it one of the best Venice day trips for those looking to explore beyond the city’s canals.

Read my full guide on taking a tour of Prosecco from Venice!

The Prosecco region is about an hour’s drive from Venice. You can rent a car and drive yourself, or join a guided tour that includes transportation and wine tastings. Since this is one of the day trips from Venice in which you’ll likely do the most drinking, I highly recommend booking a driver to take you around. 

If you prefer public transportation, you can take a train from Venice to Conegliano and then a local bus to Valdobbiadene.

When to Visit

The Prosecco region can be visited year-round, but the best time to go is during the grape harvest season, from late August to October. During this time, you can witness the grape picking and wine making process first-hand. The region also hosts several wine festivals throughout the year, offering a great opportunity to sample a variety of Proseccos and meet the local producers.

Wrapping It Up

Venturing beyond the enchanting canals of Venice opens up a world of captivating day trips. From the scenic islands of Murano and Burano to the historic towns of Verona and Vicenza, each destination offers its own unique charm and experiences. 

Explore the wonders of the Venice Lagoon, indulge in delicious food and wine, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Northern Italy. Whether you’re seeking natural beauty, historic sites, or culinary delights, these day trips from Venice are sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.

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15 Best day trips from Venice Italy

Venice is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, and also a great base from which you can explore the Veneto region and beyond.

I’ve always found it difficult to tear myself away, but there are many compelling day trips from Venice. Some are very easy, including popular boat tours in Venice that take you out to lagoon islands like Burano .

Some of the best day trips from Venice only involve a short train or bus ride onto the mainland and back.

Some possible trips from Venice involve more travelling time, and we offer guidance on whether or not you can accomplish your trip from Venice under your own steam.

There is also the option of booking day tours from Venice, which take you beyond the reach of public transport. It’s also worth bearing in mind the option of car rental in Venice, which again opens up more options for you.

Disclosure: This article may contain affiliate links, meaning when you make a purchase,we may earn a small commission, at no cost to you, for qualitfying purchases. For more info, see the Disclosure Policy.

Table of Contents

Easy Day Trips From Venice – Around The Venetian Lagoon

The best of the boat trips from Venice is the Murano Burano Torcello run to the three islands in the north of the lagoon – or just seeing two of them.

Burano and Murano often confuse visitors because of the similarity of their names, but they are very different.

The departure point for the Murano, Burano and Torcello vaporetto (waterbus) is the Fondamente Nove station on the northern side of the city. The number 12 boat takes you to Murano Faro, a short walk from some of the Murano glass workshops for which the island is known worldwide.

It continues northwards across the open lagoon, and the leaning tower of the main church on Burano island soon comes into view.

The boat then reaches a canal between the islands of Mazzorbo and Mazzorbetto, before turning left towards the island of Torcello.

Torcello feels very quiet and remote nowadays, but this isolated spot was actually settled long before the islands that make up the city of Venice were occupied.

It is also home to Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, which is one of the most impressive churches in Venice . It dates back to the 7 th century and has a stunning mosaic above the east apse.

Torcello was once a thriving small city, but is now an isolated outpost of Venice, with the cathedral, another church, a museum, a few houses and a restaurant spread out along a single narrow canal.

Most of the island has reverted to something akin to its pre-settlement state – nearly all of its buildings were dismantled, the materials re-used in the city of Venice. It’s worth climbing the cathedral campanile for the view over the island. Which gives you a good idea of how the islands that make up Venice once would have looked.

Our Rating: 4.5/5

See Also: Venice Off The Beaten Path – Explore 18 Hidden Gems In Venice

Most people make the day trip to Burano to see the many brightly painted houses that make up this small fishing village, the next stop on the number 12 service from Torcello.

I’ve found that Burano and Torcello make a good day trip from Venice. You need an hour or more on Torcello, and if you’re a keen photographer, at least a couple of hours on Burano. It’s quite small, but it still takes a while to walk around all the canals and backstreets. Nearly every house is a photo opportunity – I’ve never seen anywhere quite like it.

It also attracts a steady stream of visitors looking to buy Burano lace, which is painstakingly sewn by women on the island, traditionally to supplement their husbands’ fishing income.

There are plenty of cafes and restaurants around the island, making it an ideal day trip destination from Venice.

See Also: Things To Do In Burano

The Rest of the Lagoon

There are some other intriguing side trips from Venice around the various lagoon islands. One of the most off-beat short trips from Venice is on the number 13 vaporetto, which departs Fondamenta Nove, calling at Murano Faro en route to the island of Sant’ Erasmo.

Few make the trip to Sant’ Erasmo, but I recommend it, especially if you need a break from the peak season crowds in Venice. It’s where many of the vegetables you see for sale at Rialto market are grown.  You can walk or hire a bike (from the first stop, Capannone), and meander past fields of artichokes, aubergines and peppers.

One of the most unusual Venice day tours is to the island of San Lazzaro degli Armeni, which is home to a small Armenian Catholic monastery just to the west of Lido island. The guided tour is fascinating, giving great insight into Armenian history. The monastery’s library houses one of the most important collections of Armenian manuscripts in the world.

San Lazzaro degli Armeni has attracted many well-known visitors, including Lord Byron, who learned some Armenian there in 1816-17 and has a room named after him there. There is also a story that Joseph Stalin worked there as a bellringer in 1907, having fled Russia to help plot revolution in exile.

Chioggia is a lovely little fishing town at the southern end of the Venetian lagoon. It’s very different to Venice itself, but an interesting side trip from Venice. It’s a hint of how Venice might have turned out had it not become so incredibly wealthy because of its trading empire.

It’s worth the journey down from Venice just to see the last known painting by Vittore Carpaccio, St Paul, in the church of San Domenico. There are several other notable churches, including the Duomo, or cathedral, designed by Baldassare Longhena, who was also responsible for the glorious Santa Maria della Salute at the entrance to the Grand Canal back in Venice.

Chioggia also has a great fish market and seafood restaurants, and the old town makes for a pleasant stroll for an hour or so. There is also a beach at Sottomarina (sometimes referred to as Marina di Chioggia).

Our Rating: 3.5/5 for the destination, 5/5 for the longer journey

Getting there: the 80E bus from Piazzale Roma takes an hour to reach Chioggia.

However, the longer route via the beach island of Lido is far more interesting. The number 11 bus runs the length of Lido island, boards a ferry to Pellestrina island, which has wonderful views of the lagoon and 18 th century sea walls. Another bus then continues the length of that to a ferry, which then takes you past mussel fishermen’s houses on stilts. One of the best places to catch a sunset in Venice , and one of the true hidden gems of Venice.

The Brenta Canal

After Venice’s maritime empire and overseas influence started to dwindle, the Venetian wealthy turned their attention inland, to the adjacent Veneto region. Many of the aristocratic families built palaces along the scenic Brenta Canal (also known as the Riviera del Brenta) which links Venice with Padua, and several boats offer cruises along this beautiful waterway.

Brenta Canal cruises usually start at 0900, with several stops at Venetian villas en route, finishing at 1700 or 1800. Some services finish at the vast Villa Pisani at Strà, with an onward bus to Padua, while others dock in Padua. You then make your own way back from Padua by bus or train.  Full day cruises are currently priced at €99, with half day cruises (to Oriago) €55.

Our Rating: 4/5

Day Trips From Venice By Train

Venezia Santa Lucia is the departure point for trains from Venice to mainland Italy. There are possible day trips by train to the north, east, south and west, and here are some of the best options.

The Venice to Padua day trip is one of the best you could possibly do.   I originally stayed there because Venice was booked out for a festival and I didn’t mind the ‘commute’. If Padua wasn’t so close to Venice it would be a bigger city break destination in its own right. It reminds me of Bologna in that it’s a captivating medieval city with a large young student population.

There are enough things to do in Padua to tempt you for two or three days, but as you’re only there for one you should book yourself a place on a tour of the Cappella Scrovegni. The entire interior of this small chapel was painted by Giotto da Bondone for a wealthy patron seeking to pay and pave his way to the afterlife.

It took him over two years – 1303 to 1305 –  to paint all the walls and ceilings, decorating them with a series of Biblical scenes. The most astonishing thing about his paintings is how far ahead of their time they were. They were completed over 150 years before the Renaissance, yet this is the era they most closely resemble. You need to book your tickets at least a day in advance, and arrive prior to your time slot.

The heart of the city is around the two Palazzo della Ragione and the two squares either side, the Piazza della Frutta and Piazza delle Erbe, where bustling markets are held on weekdays. It’s a short walk from here to the Duomo, or Cathedral, and the highlight of a visit here is the adjoining Baptistery, with an incredible ceiling by Giusto de’ Menabuoi.

Padua’s other essential sight is the Basilica of St Anthony of Padua, known locally as Il Santo. St Anthony was a disciple of St Francis of Assisi who was canonised only three years after his death. The basilica was built to venerate him, and his devotional cult is very strong nearly 800 years after he died. It’s one of the most opulent and fascinating churches I’ve ever visited.

Our rating: 5 / 5

Getting there: The train from Venice to Padua takes between 30 and 50 minutes, depending on whether you catch the Eurostar (quickest), Inter-Regionale or regionale (slowest) service.

The Venice to Vicenza day trip is another you can easily do by train.

You will already have had some introduction to Vicenza’s most famous son, Andrea Palladio, in Venice. His sublime church of San Giorgio Maggiore is one of the most iconic sights on Venice, and the nearby churches of Il Redentore and Zitelle are also must-sees. If any of these have captivated you, Vicenza is where you should go to see much more of Palladio’s work.

As with Padua, you’ll probably struggle to see everything in a day. However, most of the best things to see in Vicenza, including several Palladio sights, are within a short distance of each other in the city centre, including the Basilica Palladiana, Palazzo Thiene and Teatro Olimpico, a wonderful re-creation of a Roman theatre.

Palladio is also well-known for his beautifully proportioned Roman-inspired villas, and there are two within easy reach on the southern outskirts of Vicenza. The Villa Rotonda and nearby Villa Malmarani ai Nani are around 400 metres’ walk from the number 8 bus stop.

There are also wonderful views over the city from the church at Monte Berico. A day trip to Vicenza is feasible, but it may be worth considering a Vicenza tour as an option if you want to cover all of the main sights in the time available.

Our rating: 5/5

Getting there: The train from Venice to Vicenza takes between 45 minutes (for fast intercity services) and 1 hour 15 minutes (Regionale).

Verona is one of the most popular destinations for a day trip from Venice.   It’s one of the most beautiful cities in Italy, and the only reservation I have for recommending a day trip from Venice to Verona is that you cannot hope to do it justice in a day. It deserves at least two days, possibly even more.

There are so many things to do in Verona. The most popular sight is the Casa di Giulietta, the setting for Shakespeare’s tale of doomed love, Romeo and Juliet. The house, which at one time belonged to the Dal Cappello family (similar to Shakespeare’s ‘ Capulet’) dates from the 14 th century, but the balcony was added much later. Needless to say, it is one of the most popular selfie spots in Italy.

Verona has so many other things to see. The Roman Arena, the best-preserved in Italy after the Colosseum in Rome, is still used as a venue for opera and concerts.

As time on a day trip to Verona day trip from Venice is limited, I suggest seeking out some of the highlights of the medieval city. The Ponte Pietro is a stunning red-brick fortified bridge over the Adige River, and the Duomo and San Zeno Maggiore church are two of the finest Romanesque buildings in northern Italy.

Verona is also a beautiful city to walk and savour the street life, with Piazza delle Erbe and Piazza dei Signori two of the prime spots to take a break and watch the world go by for a while.

Getting there – There are frequent trains from Venice to Verona Porta Nuova, and to make the most of the day you should spend the extra money on the faster Regionale Veloce or Frecciarossa trains which take a little over an hour, rather than the slow regionale which take twice the time for less than half the price.

Trieste is the last outpost of Italy, tucked away in the north-east corner of Italy, next to the border with Slovenia, with Croatia also close by.

It’s a fascinating city which doesn’t really feel like Italy. It was part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire for over 500 years, and its main seaport until 1918 and the end of the First World War. It still feels like a crossroads city to me, with as much Slavic and Germanic influence as Italian.

It may not have many of the conventional sights of some of the other destinations we describe, but I’d still recommend a day trip from Venice to Trieste to uncover some of its many layers of history.

Trieste is also the (unofficial) coffee capital of Italy, which dates back to its time as a free port under the Habsburgs, when coffee was shipped there from all over the world. It’s home to the famous Illy coffee brand, and they have set up a University of Coffee where you can take a day course or even enrol on a degree.

I sought out the Caffe San Marco while I was there last, partly to sample the outstanding espresso, but also to see where James Joyce drank his coffee for ten years.

The most popular tourist sight in Trieste is actually just outside the city – the Castello Miramare sits in a gorgeous location a few miles across the bay.

There are also plenty of other surprises and things to do in Trieste on your day trip. It’s only a short walk from the seafront up the hill to the Roman amphitheatre and the lovely Cathedral at the summit.

In this last corner of Italy, you can also visit the one Nazi concentration camp to be set up on Italian soil. The Risiera di San Sabba started out as a rice mill, but was put to sinister use by the Nazis, who murdered at least 5,000 people there, and deported many more to the death camps to the north, including Auschwitz .

Getting there: The regular train from Venice to Trieste takes two hours.

Bassano del Grappa and Marostica

Bassano del Grappa is a pretty town in the foothills of the Dolomites two hours north of Venice.It’s best known as the home of grappa, a strong spirit that’s usually grape-flavoured, which comes in many varieties.

There are, of course, plenty of places to try or buy grappa in Bassano, including a number of osterie, or bars, and the Poli Museo della Grappa. The most impressive sight in the town is the covered wooden Ponte Vecchio, also known as the Ponte degli Alpini, which spans the river Brenta.

Bassano’s nearest neighbour is the picturesque town of Marostica, which is known for a game of human chess played out on the town square every two years. The next perormances will be held 7 th to 9 th September 2018.

The tradition goes back to the 15 th century, when two noblemen sought the hand of Lionora, daughter of the local lord. It makes for a stunning spectacle, played out with the Castello the imposing backdrop.

Our Rating: 4 / 5

Getting there: The regular train from Venice to Bassano del Grappa takes two hours, and there are regular buses from Bassano to Marostica which is only 4 km away.

Best Day Tours from Venice

Some destinations can be visited in a day from Venice, but if you’re relying on public transport you’re not going to see much, which is where taking private day tours from Venice becomes an option. We recommend this for the following destinations.

Wine Tours from Venice

Sampling a glass or two of prosecco is almost as essential a Venetian experience as a boat ride down the Grand Canal. And if you’re in Venice for a few days and want to know (and try) more, you can take guided tours from Venice to ‘Prosecco country’ to the north of nearby Treviso.

The main Prosecco Superiore growing area is actually quite small, between the towns of Valdobbiadene and Conegliano. It’s steep, hilly country, and the vineyards make a wonderful sight, especially towards harvest time. There are also some beautiful villages along the route, including Guia and Santo Stefano.

The tours take you through this fine scenic countryside, and you usually visit two or three wineries, learning all about the cultivation of the vines and tasting several vintages at each.

Our Rating: 4.5 / 5

Lake Garda is the largest of the Italian Lakes, and one of the most beautiful, with some beautiful resort towns around its shores. It’s around 50 km north to south, and around 10 km across most of the way.

You can reach Lake Garda from Venice by train easily enough: trains regularly stop at Peschiera and Desenzano. You can then count on getting to a hub like Sirmione by bus, or up either shore, but you’re not going to get long wherever you choose to go.

So if you want to make the most of your day trip to Lake Garda you’ll get more out of it by taking a day tour.

Our Rating: 4.5

The Dolomites

If you climb one of Venice’s campaniles on a clear day, you can see the peaks of the mighty Dolomites to the north.  No wonder that a Dolomites day trip from Venice sounds appealing.

However, the Dolomites are out of reach of public transport from Venice.

You can organise car hire from Venice, and with your own wheels you can get to the mountains in around two hours. This gives you the freedom to explore some of the scenic Dolomites drives for a few hours before heading back to Venice.

Alternatively, if you book a Venice Dolomites day trip with a private tour company, a typical itinerary takes you to lovely Lake Santa Caterina, the iconic Tre Cime di Lavaredo peaks and gives you some time in the ski resort of Cortina d’Ampezzo.

Our Rating: 5/5

Ravenna was once the most powerful city in what was left of the Roman Empire in western Europe, and was the seat of power in the 5 th and 6 th centuries. The legacy of its century-long heyday is some of the most precious mosaic art on the planet, all dating from this period.

I had studied Byzantine art at university, and even that didn’t prepare me for seeing the Ravenna mosaics in person: they are simply astounding. The main sites are the Basilica of San Vitale, the Neonian and Arian Baptisteries, the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, and the Basilicas of Sant’Apollinare Nuovo and Sant’Apollinare in Classe.

It’s situated close to the Emilia-Romagna coast to the south of Venice and the Po delta. You can get from Venice to Ravenna by train and back in a day, but the chances are it’ll take you three hours or more each way. Then there are the six main sites to visit – five are within walking distance of each other, while the other one is a short bus or train ride away.

Put simply, a Venice to Ravenna day trip on public transport is going to be long and tiring. A Ravenna day tour makes more sense, getting you there and back in much less time.

L ong Distance Day Trips from Venice

The day trip from Venice to Florence can be done, but it’s not one I’ve seen anyone try, and I wouldn’t do it myself as it deserves a lot more time than a day trip is going to offer.  Venice is too far away. It makes more sense to take a Florence day trip from somewhere closer, like Bologna or one of the Tuscan cities.

That said, if Venice is the closest you’re ever likely to get to Florence and this is the one chance you’re going to get to see it, by all means go for it.

It doesn’t really make much sense to book a tour of Florence from Venice, as it’s easier to make your own way there by train (which can take as little as two hours). but it would be well worth your while joining a Florence tour while you’re there, especially if you want to get an overview of the city in a short space of time.

Our rating: 5/5 for the destination, but 3/5 for a day trip all the way from Venice.

Getting there : by regular train from Venezia Santa Lucia to Florence Santa Maria Novella (Firenze SMN)

See Also: Photographing Florence – Capturing One Of the Most Beautiful Cities In Italy

The day trip from Venice to Milan can also be done, but as with Florence, it’s not one I’d contemplate myself. Again, Milan deserves more time than a day, but as some of the main sights are close to each other you’d get to experience some of the best things to do in Milan more quickly than you would Florence.

A day in Milan would give you enough time to see the magnificent Duomo, the opulent La Scala Opera House and Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper in nearby Santa Maria delle Grazie church. One of the most beautiful old delis in Italy, Peck, is also very close to the Duomo.

As with Florence, if your time is limited it makes sense to catch one of the high-speed trains from Venice, and to cover as much ground as possible, book yourself on a Milan tour.

Our rating: 4.5/5 for the destination, and 3/5 for a day trip all the way from Venice

Getting there: Trains run regularly from Venezia Santa Lucia to Milano Centrale.

D ay Trips Out of Venice That Can’t Be Done

While travelling in Italy in the late 1990s I met a number of people who talked about taking day trips from Venice to Croatia. I looked into the possibility of it back then and it wasn’t workable. The situation remains the same over twenty years on.

It’s easy enough to find a day trip to Venice from Croatia, as several operators in Pula, Porec and Rovinj run daily boats there in season (usually April to September). They depart in the morning, returning in the early evening.

And therein lies the problem if you want to embark on a day trip to Croatia from Venice. The only departures available are in the evening, so you really need to spend one, or more likely two, nights at your Croatian destination. There is much more of a market for day trippers to Venice from Croatia than there is the other way around. The same applies to Slovenia.

Some visitors do indeed contemplate day trips and tours from Venice to Rome. I wouldn’t. The quickest train one way takes well over three hours, so that’s around seven hours just on the train.

Rome is an amazing city packed with hundreds of things to see and do. The best advice I can give is not to do so on a long, exhausting day trip from Venice.

Best Day Trips from Venice Map

To help you plan your travels I created this map in google maps showing the locations of each of the day trips from Venice in this article. Click on the map and it will take you to google maps where you can download this map and get directions.

Day Trips From Venice – Final Words

I hope that my day trips from Venice article has helped you plan your Italy itinerary.

The Veneto region is extraordinarily rich in places to visit. It has always been rather overshadowed by Venice, meaning that time-poor travellers don’t have the opportunity to explore it more.

At the very least, I’d look at a half-day trip to the north of the Venetian lagoon. The island of Torcello is serene, and there are enough things to do in Burano – and houses to photograph – to warrant a few hours of your time.

If you’re going to make one trip back to the mainland, make it to Padua . It’s one of the most underrated cities in Europe with two World Heritage Sites, including some of the finest medieval fresco cycles in the world.

And there’s so much more. Vicenza, Verona, Lake Garda in one direction. Ferrara, Bologna , Ravenna in the other. And Tuscany? You can do a day trip to Florence if you’re really pushed for time. But I’d suggest that’s another trip entirely – check out my Best Places to Stay In Tuscany article for a few ideas.

David Angel is a British photographer, writer and historian. He is a European travel expert with over 30 years’ experience exploring Europe. He has a degree in History from Manchester University, and his work is regularly featured in global media including the BBC, Condé Nast Traveler, The Guardian, The Times, and The Sunday Times.  David is fluent in French and Welsh, and can also converse in Italian, German, Portuguese, Spanish, Czech and Polish.

9 Best Day Trips From Venice by Train Under 1 Hour

Looking for the best day trips from Venice under 1 hour by train? Here are 9 wonderful places you can visit easily from the Venetian capital.

The iconic gondolas faring on the equally iconic waterways… the impressive Gothic buildings, ornate bridges, and charming piazzas…

Really, there’s not much more left to say about this city that has for centuries ignited romance and inspired countless romantic declarations of excitement.

Venice is not only one of the world’s most beautiful destinations, it also one of the safest cities you can visit in Italy. However, today we are going to halt the praises and head on straight to other things you can do besides admire the captivating beauty of the Venetian capital. Day trips are some of them.

There are quite plenty of day trips from Venice by train, but we have narrowed our list down to the best places that only take under an hour on a train journey to assure ample time for exploring. Let’s hop in!

Table of Contents

Best Day Trips From Venice Under 1 Hour by Train

Here are the cities and towns for your best day trips from Venice by train in under an hour.

Distance : approx. 16 mi. (26 km.) Fastest travel time : 22 mins.

Hands down the easiest of all day trips from Venice, Treviso has become a hub of art and culture in the Veneto region over the past years – with good reason. For starters, there’s the stunning 14th-century church of Santa Caterina, now Treviso’s Civic Museum, where you can view exquisite frescoes and paintings of famous Venetian artists, as well as fascinating collections of antiquities.

Treviso is also recognized as the original production area of Prosecco wine and Italian chicory (radicchio), and purportedly the birthplace of one of Italy’s most famous desserts – tiramisù.

Home to a large university and the headquarters of Italian fashion brands Geox and Benetton, bicycle maker Pinarello, and appliance maker De’Longhi, Treviso is also hailed by many as the friendliest town in all of Italy .

Distance : 18 mi. (29 km.) Fastest travel time: 17 mins.

The city of fun! Jesolo offers just that – fun, fun, and more fun!

This is a city your whole family will enjoy because it has a bit of everything – from gelaterias to theme parks like New Jesolandia, Gommapiuma, Caribe Bay, and Tropicarium Park to fashion and jewelry shops… and the 80,000-sq.m. go-kart area. Not to mention the beach!

While most of Jesolo’s tourism is in the summer, this seaside resort city is fun to visit any season of the year for adults and children alike. Truly one of the must-not-miss day trips from Venice!

Distance : approx. 21 mi. (34 km.) Fastest travel time: 15 mins.

Considered one of Italy’s main art cities ( città d’arte ), Padua boasts Roman ruins and medieval walls as well as Renaissance frescoes and Liberty style architecture.

It’s best to start your day tour at the city’s centro storico , which is a pastiche of these millenia-old styles of art and architecture that make this Italian city stand out from the rest.

It is worth noting that Italy’s most famous poet , Dante Alighieri, lived in Padua. The city is also the setting of Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew .

4. Abano Terme

Distance: approx. 26 mi. (42 km.) Fastest travel time : 25 mins.

With its hectares of luxurious natural parks and healing mud and hot springs, Abano Terme is a great destination for your ultimate relaxation goals. The town’s soothing thermal baths and Roman spas are believed to have curative mineral-rich waters from ancient springs.

In addition, this beautiful albeit small spa town is not short of interesting sights, art, and architecture.

A truly unique experience awaits you less than half an hour by train from Venice, so make sure to get a ticket to ride!

5. Portogruaro

Distance: approx. 34 mi. (54 km.) Fastest travel time : 37 mins.

Portogruaro can be considered a small version of Venice, thanks to the architectural style of its palaces. It is an ancient little town, elegant and steeped in history – just like its big sister Venice.

While it is dubbed the “City of the Porticoes,” Portogruaro is better-known for a good number of wines produced here and exported all over the world.

This charming little town isn’t touristy, but it offers plenty of attractions, including its numerous medieval churches and palaces, as well as the popular seaside resorts found here.

Don’t miss this day trip from Venice!

ALSO READ: 14 Best Non-Touristy Cities And Towns In Italy You Must Visit Before They’re Crowded

Distance: approx. 37 mi. (59 km.) Fastest travel time : 33 mins

One of Italy’s most underrated cities and Veneto’s often overlooked destinations, Rovigo offers a lot more than you may think.

While they may not be the same treasure trove of attractions you will find in its fellow Venetian neighbors, this ancient little city offers an array of activities and places to visit that make it worthy of a day trip from Venice.

Rovigo boasts one of the best collections of paintings in the region, so checking out the local art gallery is an absolute must when in the city. Rovigo’s luxurious palaces, the Duomo, and the historic old town also warrant a visit.

Distance : approx. 39 mi. (63 km.) Fastest travel time : 29 mins.

Vicenza is a thriving cosmopolitan city, admired by many for its rich history and culture. It houses numerous museums and art galleries, elegant Renaissance palaces, villas, churches, and piazzas.

The city of Vicenza, along with its 23 Palladian buildings, was given a UNESCO World Heritage designation in 1994. These works of Renaissance architect Andrea Palladio are probably what make Vicenza so well-known. However, the city is also recognized for its trade in precious metals, hence the moniker “City of Gold.”

Vicenza is a charming small town worth exploring with its history, art, and architecture. Best souvenir to buy will be a piece of jewelry, with some of the best Italian jewelry brands headquartered here such as Roberto Coin, FOPE, and Marco Bicego.

Distance : 54 mi. (87 km.) Fastest travel time : 45 mins.

Ferrara is best for walking around, with a well-preserved – and mostly car-free – historic center dating back to the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, including the old Jewish quarter.

A fantastic tourist destination located in the Emilia-Romagna region, Ferrara was a major reference point for artists, poets, and minstrels back in the day. It was the first modern city and one of the European capitals of culture, arts, politics, gastronomy.

The city is fairly easy to visit. Besides exploring on foot, you can also go biking on top of or alongside the city’s medieval walls.

A visit to Ferrara takes one to an authentic journey back in time. And any visit here is not complete without feasting on the mouth-watering local cuisine, so make sure to sample as many food as you can!

Distance : approx. 66 mi. (106 km.) Fastest travel time : 55 mins.

Although famously known as the setting of Shakespeare’s Rome and Juliet , the city of Verona’s symbol is the Arena di Verona, a Roman amphitheatre that serves as a reminder of the city’s wealth of Roman antiquities. Verona is actually nicknamed “Little Rome.”

The city’s history, incredible art and architecture, and fantastic food make Verona truly one of the best day trips from Venice by train. And while you’re there, don’t forget to touch Juliet’s breast for some good luck!

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Best Day Trips From Venice: Historic Cities, Wineries, and More

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Venice is a beautiful city of romantic intrigue, with its meandering canals, picturesque bridges, and iconic landmarks. It’s one of the most popular cities to visit in Italy, but what if you want to explore beyond the canals?

You’re in luck, because Venice is an excellent base for many adventures in northern Italy. You can discover all the charm Italy offers, from Prosecco wineries to the charming towns.

This article will take you through the best day trips from Venice and cover some key travel information to help you plan your time.

So, when you’re not enjoying all the hidden gems in Venice , you’ll want to take on one of these unforgettable day trips.

Article contents

Popular Day Trips From Venice, Italy

Venice couldn’t be better placed for fun day trips to the Veneto region . Some unforgettable sites are a stone’s throw away, like the Prosecco wineries and Lake Garda .

With this array of fantastic day trip ideas to the glorious regions of the country, it’s not easy picking your ideal excursion. So, to make your life easier, here are some of the best Venice, Italy, day trips you can book to enhance your trip. 

Prosecco Valley Wine Tasting Tour

If you want stunning views, delicious food, and a relaxing experience, this winery tour of Prosecco Valley is for you. You’ll visit two wineries during this tour, namely Conegliano and Valdobbiadene, where you’ll be able to taste the famous DOCG Italian white wines.

The tour guide — a local wine expert — will give you the ins and outs of all the subtle flavors each wine offers. You’ll also enjoy a light lunch with local produce from farm to table. It doesn’t get any better than this.

Tour Details: Prosecco Valley Tour From Venice

LISTEN: to our podcast episode on the Prosecco Hills .

Murano, Burano, and Torcello Islands Day Trip

Join this Venice Lagoon tour for a unique coastal excursion to discover Murano’s craftsmanship, Burano ‘s vibrant streets, and Torcello’s rich history. You’ll start the day at Murano Island, where you’ll visit a glass factory that showcases the island’s artistry. The glass-blowing demonstration will captivate your imagination.

Next up, spend a couple of hours admiring the tapestry of colorful houses and enjoying a light meal in Burano. 

Lastly, you’ll visit Torcello, where you can admire the Byzantine mosaics at Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta before jumping back aboard your boat and heading home.

Experience Details : Venice Lagoon Islands Tour

NOTE: You’ll have an opportunity to admire the emerald-green waters of the Venice Lagoon from the boat’s open-air deck.

Cortina and Dolomites Mountain Day Trip

Get fresh air away from the city on this Dolomites Mountain day trip . During this full-day outing, you’ll travel in style to the picturesque ski town of Cortina. You’ll have some free time here to explore the boutique shops and patisseries before hitting the road again.

If you join the tour between the 15th of November to the third week of May, the tour stops in San Candido and Lake Braies. Any other time of the year, you’ll go to Lake Misurina and Tre Cime di Lavaredo, which offer stunning views of the Dolomite Mountains , a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Experience Details: Cortina and Dolomites Mountain Trip

Lake Garda Day Trip

For a romantic day floating along the majestic waters near Verona, join this Lake Garda boat cruise . This is the perfect half-day tour along the turquoise lake, sailing past iconic sites such as Scaligero Castle and the Medieval castle of Lazise.

Before you adventure past gorgeous citadels and pristine Venetian villas, indulge in a sommelier-led tasting in Bardolino. To wrap things up, you’ll pass some more timeless monuments, like the Romanesque Torri del Benaco Scaligero Castle.

NOTE: You’ll need to catch an hour and a half train ride or drive a car from Venice to Peschiera del Garda, the tour’s departure point. Train tickets start at around €12 per person. 

Tour Details: Lake Garda Cruise

Full-Day Brenta Riviera Boat Trip

There’s nothing better than enjoying the sunshine and some gorgeous scenery, so how about joining this Brenta Riviera boat cruise . This lovely excursion passes many famous Venetian Villas with a guided tour of some, such as Villa Foscari and Villa Pisani (pictured above).

If you get peckish, the cruise stops at the famous Il Burchiello restaurant for a discounted lunch with mesmerizing riverside views. You’ll also pass nine draw-bridges, five locks, and several picturesque villages along the way to Padua.

Tour Details: Brenta Riviera Boat Cruise

City Day Trip From Venice Ideas

If there’s one thing Italy isn’t short of, its beautiful cities — and Venice is an arm’s length away from several charming destinations. These nearby cities each have their magnetizing effects, from inviting atmospheres to impressive architecture that you cannot help but snap a photo of.

These day trips from Venice are all worth considering, so here’s some extra information to help you choose.

Verona has a long history, and there’s no better place to discover this than at its Centro Storico. Marvel at the wide-arched piazzas, churches like Santi Aposteli, and famous museums like Juliet’s House .

When you’re not exploring, you can enjoy a coffee at one of the many cafes along Piazza Bra, all while admiring the Verona Arena .

If you want to see other fantastic sights across the city, consider joining this private walking tour , including the Arco Dei Gavi and a walk across Ponte Pietra.

TOP TIP: When booking with Liv Tours , get 5% off with our code UntoldItaly .

How to Get to Verona

Trains depart from Venice Santa Lucia for Verona Porta Nuova and take an hour and 30 minutes on average. Usually, there are 35 direct trips from Venice to Verona, with tickets starting at around €10.

A bus ride is slightly longer, with times averaging an hour and 45 minutes. Most buses depart from Tronchetto Fermata Dell’autobus and travel to Verona’s Girolamo Cardinale bus station. On average, ticket prices start around €7.

Driving from Venice takes about an hour and 15 minutes, as you’ll travel along the A4 and E70. The Piazzale Olimpia car park is your best bet for finding free parking. You will then have to walk or catch a bus to the historic center (2.1 miles away).

READ: our guide to the Best things to do in Verona .

Padua is a Medieval town packed with memorable history and architecture. You simply have to visit the Piazza Dei Signori, with the gorgeous Marciani Column and Torre Del’Orologio taking the limelight.

Other iconic sights include the Padua Duomo and Basilica di Sant’Antonio, which showcase the beauty of the town. If you want to see Giotto’s handy work, visit the Cappella Degli Scrovegni and take in the breathtaking frescos.

Padua also has lush garden spaces, from the exotic Orto Botanico to the Prato Della Valle. Fun fact, the Prato Della Valle is also the largest square in Italy and Europe.

TOP TIP: Join this Padua private experience to explore the entire city. 

How to Get to Padua

Taking the train from Venice Santa Lucia to Padova Train Station is a short half-hour trip. The first train leaves around 05:05, and the last departs at 00:15, with tickets averaging €5 one way.

A bus trip takes roughly 50 minutes and usually runs from Mestre Stazione to Parcheggio Ex Pesa Pubblica. Tickets are also very affordable, starting at around €2 per person.

Driving to Padua is usually a half-hour trip as you travel along the E70. It’s a good idea to park at the Piazza Rabin guarded parking area, as it’s safe and only a 2-minute walk from Basilica di Santa Giustina. 

Treviso is another Medieval town blessed with beauty beyond your imagination. The five turquoise domed roofs of the Cathedral of San Pietro perfectly imitate the Sile River’s crystal waters that flow near the city. 

When you’re not looking at the frescos by Pordenone, or paintings by Titian at San Pietro, explore the city walls and gates. You can get majestic views of the Alps from Porta San Tommaso — one of the stunning city gates.

Although it’s a small city, you can still enjoy life’s simple pleasures at the cafes that line Piazza dei Signori or enjoy its enchanting canals.

TOP TIP: For an authentic experience, enjoy this unique private meal at a local’s house .

How to Get to Treviso

Treviso is a short and sweet half-hour ride by high-speed train from Santa Lucia to Treviso Centrale. There are an average of 64 trips on this route, and you can expect tickets to start at €4 per person. 

Bus rides take about an hour, and most depart from Piazzale Roma and travel to Parcheggio Comunale. Tickets are more than you might expect for this short trip, starting at €4 per person. 

Traveling by car takes an average of 35 minutes as you drive along the A27. Free parking is tough to find, so it’s best to seek out a spot in the city center and pay the €1 per hour fee. 

Vicenza is a sprawling historic city where the Basilica Palladiana takes center stage. It’s located in the Piazza dei Signori and includes intricate window designs with high wooden ceilings. 

That’s not the only iconic landmark in the city, as a walking tour of Teatro Olimpico will show. This theater is much more than a place of performance; boasting a pristine garden, towering sculptures, and stunning architecture.

Art lovers can also explore the city’s museums, like the Museo Palladiano or the Vicenza Museo Civico.

How to Get to Vicenza

High-speed trains from Santa Lucia to Vicenza Train Station take 45 minutes to an hour. With a reasonable travel time, the average price is €7 per ticket, making it an affordable option. 

Buses have the longest travel time, averaging €6 per ticket. Most buses depart from Mestre Stazione and travel to Vicenza Autostazione, with a travel time of just over an hour. Note that you will most likely need to catch a 15-minute bus ride from Piazza San Marco to Mestre Stazione, as it’s outside Venice’s city center. 

Driving will take you roughly 50 minutes as you travel via the E70. The Piazzale Vittoria is a good option if you’re looking for free parking in the small city. The parking area is only a mile from Basilica Palladian.

Of the day trips from Venice, Ferrara is one of the shortest and loveliest. You can’t go wrong exploring Castello Estense, with its moat, orange tree garden, and towers that offer a fantastic view of the city.

Despite the damage from World War II (40% of the homes were destroyed), famous landmarks are still standing. Some of the top ones you should consider seeing include the Museo Archeologico Nazionale, Cattedrale di San Giorgio, and Rotonda Foschini. 

The city walls and old Jewish District all add to the fact that Ferrara is a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

TOP TIP: If you want to discover all the city has to offer, join this guided walking tour .

How to Get to Ferrara

Train rides take an average of an hour and 30 minutes, with tickets starting at €10 per person. You will depart from Santa Lucia with a scenic journey to the Ferrara Train Station.  

Direct buses tend to take an hour and 45 minutes and pass through Padua. Most buses depart from Viale Stazione and arrive at Piazzale Della Stazione. You can expect prices in the range of €5 per person. 

Driving to Ferrara will take around an hour and 15 minutes as you travel along the A13. Free parking is at Ex-Mof (15 minutes from the city center), or you can pay €1.60 per hour at Piazza del Travaglio.

Coastal Venice Day Trip Ideas

The Venice trips aren’t finished just yet. The east coast is a region of Italy that you should definitely consider visiting. So here are two great day trips from Venice that might be just right for you.

To experience one of the best barrier islands of Italy, you’ll need to take a 30-minute ferry ride to Venice Lido. The boat rides depart from Marco-San Zaccaria and dock at Lido S.M.E, with tickets starting at €1.50 per person.

You can explore an Armenian Monastery, enjoy the beach, or explore the protected nature reserve, Oasis of Alberoni. It’s easy to say this is a lovely day trip you’ll never forget.

LISTEN: to our podcast episode on the Islands of Venice .

An hour’s bus ride or a 50-minute drive south, you’ll find the Medieval city of Chioggia. This coastal oasis offers everything from gondola rides down the Grand Canal to historic buildings like Forte San Felice. If you want to enjoy the beachside getaway, Astoria Beach is a great place to catch some sun.

Summary – Which Venice Day Trips Are You Excited For?

If there’s one thing you may have noticed, it’s that there are some fantastic Venice side trips just waiting for you. Whether exploring the Dolomite Mountains or admiring Verona, you can add some of these day trips from Venice to your itinerary. 

While you’re here, have a look at the best hotels in Venice to find your dream accommodation.

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15 Brilliant Day Trips from Venice

Looking for the best day trips from Venice? Read on to discover the top places in Italy you can explore in a day. 

Pals, it’s no secret that Venice – the breathtaking capital city of the Veneto region, built on a lagoon from the Adriatic Sea – is one of my favourite destinations in Europe. 

Renaissance and gothic palaces line the emerald canals, and picturesque bridges connect everything. It’s truly magical. 

While visiting Venice is best done over a few days, if you’re looking to take a day trip outside of the city, there are so many stunning options that you might feel quite overwhelmed.

Not to worry. That’s exactly why I’ve written this guide to the very best Venice day trips. From waterparks and galleries to historic sites and culture, I’ve covered it all.

The Best Day Trips From Venice 

Murano & burano.

First up: One of the most popular Venice day trips. And for good reason.

Murano and Burano are two vibrant islands floating in the Venetian Lagoon in northern Italy near Torcello. These islands are picturesque, featuring brightly coloured homes all along their canals. In other words – you’ve likely seen them on the ‘Gram.

Murano is well-known for its glass, while Burano shines in lace-making, so you’ll have plenty of opportunity to snag a souvenir. Plus there are some fascinating attractions to inspire any photographer, from majestic cathedrals to must-see bridges. 

Apart from a charming atmosphere, you can browse through Murano’s glass showrooms and shops. Or see local women basking in the sun while hand-crafting their Burano lace. 

How to Get There: It’s easy. Hop on a Vaporetto (water bus) service at Fondamente Nove. To reach Murano, take the 4.1, 4.2, 12 or 13 routes and then take the number 12 line from Murano to Burano. 

Average journey duration: About 15 minutes to Murano and 30 minutes to Burano. 

Hassle-free option: Book This Guided Tour  

They say, all roads lead to Rome , so it makes perfect sense to take a ride on one for your day trip from Venice. You’ll need to prepare yourself for a seriously long day, however, it’s worth the time and effort. 

Rome is gorgeous (gasps). Sprawling with classical architecture, elegant artwork, and lush gardens filled with fountains and delicious food, it’s any traveller’s dream come true. 

The grand Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, the Roman Forum, and a slew of museums and galleries are just some of the outstanding sights to adore. Rome may not have been built in one day, but you can see most of its sites in under 24 hours when following my epic one day in Rome guide.

How to Get There: Take a direct train from Venezia S. Lucia station to Roma Termini. Several high-speed trains from Venice to Rome also start from €10.90. 

Average journey duration: High-speed trains average around 3 hours and 43 minutes. Travelling with a direct Frecciarossa and Italo train will get you there in just 3 hours and 15 minutes. 

Florence 

A day trip to Florence from Venice is mandatory if you’re an arts and history lover. Florence was the birthplace of the Renaissance — so expect to be amidst some of the most significant artworks and an extravagant display of Italian culture and cuisine. 

See celebrated pieces by Michelangelo, Da Vinci, and Raphael in world-famous galleries such as the Uffizi Gallery. Then sample some of the best foods and wines, such as the traditional Tagliatelle Funghi Porcini e Tartufo (a mouthful, but a tasty one at that!). 

How to Get There: The quickest way would be by high-speed train. Trenitalia and Italo trains run from Venice’s Santa Lucia station to Santa Maria Novella station in Florence. Expect to pay no less than 43€.  

Average journey duration: 2 hours 16 mins

Trieste is a scenic port city between the Adriatic coast and Slovenia’s border. It’s a certified haven for coffee-holics, boasting home brands such as Illy and Hausbrandt. Apart from all the must-visit Viennese-style coffee houses, you can check out the exquisite historic square with sea views: Piazza Unità d’Italia. 

Get in with the locals by sampling some tantalising traditional dishes such as Prosciutto di San Daniele and Sauris smoked ham from renowned restaurants. Being a port city, you can explore some of the prettiest beaches, like the classic Ausonia. 

How to Get There: Your best bet is by bus from Tronchetto station to Autostazione in Trieste, which is quicker and cheaper than a train ride, costing only €10 – 13. 

Average journey duration: 2 hours 10 minutes

Dolomites 

If you’ve always wanted to explore the Dolomitic Alps, here’s your chance with a fantastic day trip to the Dolomites from Venice. 

The mighty Dolomite Mountains (a mesmerising UNESCO World Heritage Site) sit proudly on northeastern soil, with swirling clouds at its peaks, allowing you to absorb an ethereal scene. 

In winter, the Dolomites see heavy snowfall, offering sublime skiing opportunities. Then take up hiking, cycling, mountain climbing, and hang-gliding for the remainder of the year. 

How to Get There: The quickest way to make this journey is to get on a bus at Venezia – Tronchetto station to Falcade, then hop on a taxi to Dolomite, Veneto. 

Average journey duration: 3 hours by bus and another 15 minutes by taxi. 

Hassle-free option: Book This Full Day Tour

Padua 

Located in northern Italy’s Veneto region, Padua is a quaint and elegant city worth a visit. You can see why this has made my list as a bustling tourist destination and a famous Italian art city. 

Wallow in the marvellous religious history of this city that boasts majestic churches such as the 13th-century Basilica of St. Anthony or the renowned Scrovegni Chapel. 

Then, wander through the arcaded streets in the old town and swing by stylish cafés and boutiques. Finally, absorb the eclectic nightlife and culinary scene with scenic winery tours. 

How to Get There:  A direct train from Venice Santa Lucia station to Padua is the quickest and costs just €5. 

Average journey duration: 28 minutes

Another city in the Veneto region to visit is the enchanting Treviso. Boasting many canals, the Duomo, the Fontana delle Tette, and a Romanesque crypt, you won’t bore easily. 

Treviso is famous for being the original production area of the honey-suckle Prosecco wine (I recommend taking a wine tour , of course) and radicchio. After admiring the nude female torso of Fontana delle Tette , you can make your way to the atmospheric plaza of Piazza dei Signori, brimming with shops and cafés. 

Then stroll to the beautiful walls of Treviso for stunning scenery featuring intricate architecture, lush gardens and bridges overlooking canals. 

How to Get There: For €12, you can board a bus at Venezia, Piazzale Roma station to Treviso, Aeroporto.  

Average journey duration: 1 hour 10 minutes

Scaling down from the bustling cities to the picturesque town of Marostica might do you some good. Sitting in the province of Vicenza, this hidden jewel is loved for its local cherry variety and, interestingly, its human chess game. 

Adorned with beautiful mediaeval villages, historical landmarks and exuberant green hills, your camera’s bound to work over time. 

Sampling the traditional cuisine of Marostica should be at the top of your list. Osteria Madonnetta, Ristorante Hotel La Rosina, and Ristorante Cuori are excellent dining spots.  

How to Get There: The recommended means of travel is via train from Venezia S. Lucia station to Bassano Del Grappa for €6–13. 

Average journey duration: 1 hour +/- 30 minutes

Bassano del Grappa

Swoon! Bassano del Grappa is as pretty as a picture, with its stunning 13th-century Ponte Vecchio wooden bridge spanning the tranquil River Brenta. After taking in the beautiful bridge, make your way to Museo degli Alpini to see WWI artefacts. 

The Civic Museum boasts an extensive art collection, and the Civic Tower has sweeping views over the city. The medium-sized town is also notable for its ceramics, which you can admire in the Palazzo Sturm museum. 

How to Get There: The easiest option is to hop on a direct train at Venezia S. Lucia station for €7. 

Average journey duration: 1 hour +/- 15 minutes

Abano and Montegrotto Terme

Fancy something a little more indulgent? I’ve got you.

Abano and Montegrotto Terme are unique Italian spa towns adjacent to each other, with Montegrotto being the oldest of its kind, while Abano is bigger. 

These towns boast many spa resorts and hotels, making them the perfect place to escape for ultimate relaxation and spa therapy. Think healing thermal springs, mud treatments, steamy rejuvenating pools, and more. 

Afterwards, you can enjoy a calm stroll through the town centres and enjoy charming scenery. 

How to Get There: A cheap and quick option is via train from Venezia S. Lucia station to Abano for only €6. 

Average journey duration: 1 hour

Verona 

Probably most well known as the setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet , a true bibliophile and romantic could never say no to visiting Verona for a day. This charming destination is home to an old mediaeval town nestled between the meandering Adige River. 

It’s also the location of a vast 1st-century Roman amphitheatre, the Verona Arena, still hosting notable concerts and opera performances today. Known as “little Rome”, one can embrace the richness of Roman antiquities dotting the city. 

How to Get There: Take a direct Regionale train from Venezia Santa Lucia station to Verona Porta Nuova station for the quickest arrival time. 

Average journey duration: 1 hour 15 minutes 

Hassle-free option: Book This Full-Day Tour  

Brenta Canal

If you would rather the journey be a part of the day trip, I’ve got the perfect option: Take a scenic cruise on the Brenta Canal. Its construction helps prevent damage to transport links in the lagoons around Venice but now serves as a main attraction outside the city. 

Take in the gorgeous surroundings, gardens, boats and awe-inspiring villas as enjoy a charming leisurely cruise on the Brenta Riviera. 

How to Get There: The most convenient option is taking a one-way cruise to Padua.  

Average journey duration: +/- 9 hours 

Hassle-free option: Book This Full-Day Cruise  

Vicenza is a sophisticated city of elegant buildings designed by Andrea Palladio in the 16th century. It boasts many landmarks, such as Monte Berico, the classical outdoors theatre, Teatro Olimpico, and Palazzo Chiericati, a renowned art gallery. 

The Palladian Basilica, Piazza dei Signori, and Palazzo Chiericati are more landmarks to squeeze in on your day trip. Beyond sightseeing, the “City of Gold” offers many shopping and culinary experiences. 

How to Get There: Hop on a direct train at Venice Santa Lucia station via the Regionale line for the quickest and cheapest (€7) trip. 

Average journey duration: 1 hour 15 minutes

If it’s impressive sights you’re after, a visit to Palmanova is a must. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a hidden gem in the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region, while the city’s 9-pointed star shape makes it so iconic.   

It’s equally as unique as Venice and offers delightful walking and biking opportunities. After wandering through the city, explore top historic sights like Piazza Grande di Palmanova and  Chiesa del Santissimo Redentore . 

The city has many bars and restaurants – Pizzeria Al Gambero and Bar & Bistrot Eccetera are both excellent. 

How to Get There: The easiest route would be a Regionale train from Venice Santa Lucia station, with one transfer at Cervignano-Aquileia-Grado. Expect to pay around €11.

Average journey duration: 2 hours

Valeggio Sul Mincio

I think I may have just saved the best Venice day trip til last. Maybe.

Valeggio sul Mincio is a quaint commune in Verona province. It’s an ideal destination if you’re seeking peace and quiet, surrounded by rural landscapes and beautiful nature. I urge you to spend some time relishing the sun-drenched views and picturesque buildings reflecting on the Mincio River. 

Parco Cavour is a main attraction there. This waterpark features slides, crystal clear lagoons with white sand and wellness areas. Strolling through the Parco Giardino Sigurtà gardens and visiting Villa Sigurtà are also great activities for the day. 

How to Get There: A train/bus combo would get you there quickly if you’re using public transport. Hop on a train at Venezia S. Lucia station. Then you transfer to a bus at Peschiera Del Garda Station. This can cost anywhere between €11–93. 

Average journey duration: 2 hours 20 mins minimum

Practical Tips for Easy Day Trips From Venice, Italy

• You’ll probably be taking trips from Venice by train as it’s the most convenient mode of travel in Europe. This site can help you find a train to any destination.
• Wondering how to pack for multiple destinations? Read my travel packing list for some ideas. 
• You’ll likely be doing lots of walking during your day trip; wearing comfy shoes is imperative. I don’t go anywhere without my Tropicfeels .

Map of Venice Day Trips

Day Trips From Venice: Read Next

• Unmissable Venice Landmarks
• A Guide to Winter in Venice
• 2 Days in Venice Itinerary
• Beautiful Airbnbs in Venice
• Exploring Burano, Venice

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I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

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12 Top-Rated Day Trips from Venice

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated May 26, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

In addition to being one of the top tourist destinations in Italy – and in all Europe – Venice is also an ideal base for visiting more of Northern Italy's top attractions. Padua, Vicenza, and Verona are easy train rides away, and the magnificent Dolomites form a wall to the north. Thanks to Italy's high-speed trains, even Florence is within reach.

Few foreign tourists go beyond Venice into the part of the Veneto region known as Friuli-Venezia Giulia, nor do they explore the Palladian villas that lie to the northwest. But all these attractions weave closely into the story of Venice. Along the Adriatic coast to the east, you'll find the city's roots in the magnificent remains of towns from which early Christians fled from barbarian hordes before founding Venice.

You'll find suggestions for the best places to visit in this list of the top day trips from Venice.

1. Murano and Burano

3. cortina and the dolomite mountains, 5. florence, 7. brenta canal, 8. bassano del grappa, 9. villa barbaro, 10. aquileia cathedral, map of day trips from venice.

The closest and easiest day trip from Venice is to its islands of Murano and Burano, each a colorful mini-Venice with their canals and bridges, and each one a center for traditional Venetian art.

Murano is the home of Venice's glassblowing industry and has been ever since the glass furnaces were moved here to protect the city from fire. A darker purpose was to isolate the glass experts so they could not give away (or sell) the secrets that gave Venice the monopoly of fine glassware.

Farther away and isolated by distance, Burano was an island of fishermen, and their wives became expert lace makers, an art that survives today. Burano is especially colorful, with its brightly painted houses reflecting in the water.

An easy way to explore these islands is on a five-hour guided Murano Glass and Burano Lace Tour from Venice , which includes motorboat transport to the islands and visits to a glassblowing factory on Murano and lace makers on Burano. There's time to shop on both islands and to visit Burano's lace museum.

Beyond its romantic associations with the fictional Juliet, Verona is one of northern Italy's most beautiful and fascinating cities for sightseeing. The narrow stone-paved streets of its Centro Storico - historic center - are lined by Renaissance and earlier buildings, many of which show the distinct marks of Verona's long years as part of the Venetian Republic.

Arching over its streets are Roman gates, and in its center is one of the finest Roman arenas in existence. Lavishly decorated churches, a castle artfully repurposed as an art museum, and the house that commemorates Shakespeare's tragic heroine will more than fill a day here.

Verona is easy to reach by direct train from Venice, and the attractions of the historic center are within walking distance or a short bus ride from the rail station. Once in the center, you'll find the castle, Juliet's house, and the most significant churches all within an easy walk of the Roman Arena.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Verona

North of Venice rises a landscape that has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its grandeur, its history, and the way of life that survives in its mountain villages. Crowned by vast snowfields in the winter, these mountains are known for some of the top ski resorts in Italy , among them the famed Cortina d'Ampezzo.

High among the Dolomites are pristine mountain lakes that reflect their jagged rocky peaks, and tiny Alpine villages hide in the valleys that drop dramatically between ranges.

A good way to see this magnificent landscape and explore its villages is on a Dolomite Mountains and Cortina Small-Group Day Trip from Venice . The 8.5-hour trip is limited to eight people and guided by a local who shares the history and customs of the region as you travel. There's time for an espresso stop in the village of Pieve di Cadore, birthplace of the Renaissance painter Titian, to explore chic Cortina d'Ampezzo and even take a short hike along a mountain trail.

Or, for a more active experience, join a guided hike on footpaths in the Dolomites to learn more about local flora and fauna amid spectacular Alpine scenery.

Although the small city of Padua (Padova in Italian) is best known for the shrine and burial place of one of the world's favorite saints, it is known to art lovers for the extraordinary Scrovegni Chapel , completely lined inside by brilliantly colored frescoes painted by Giotto from 1303 to 1306.

Giotto was not the only major artist who worked here, and their works fill the city's churches. Inside the 13th-century Palazzo della Ragione is Europe's largest medieval hall, its walls covered by more frescoes.

Although the city's art and religious attractions get the most attention from tourists, don't overlook the outstanding collections in the Civic Museum, which include fourth-century mosaics and pre-Roman finds from as far back as the eighth century BC. You can reach Padua by train in anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Padua

The Renaissance, which inspired Venetian artists like Titian and the Bellini family to some of their greatest heights, began in Florence. Thanks to high-speed trains, you can get a sampling of the rich legacy of Florentine painters, sculptors, and architects on a day trip from Venice.

The city's most prominent – literally – attraction is Brunelleschi's towering dome on the great Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore . You could spend a day just enjoying all the art treasures in that complex, which includes the Baptistery with Gilberti's bronze reliefs; the graceful bell tower by Giotto; and a museum filled with masterpieces by Michelangelo, Donatello, and other masters.

These are not far from the train station, but a good way to see these and other attractions is with an independent Florence day trip from Venice by high-speed train that includes not only the train ticket, but access to the handy hop-on hop-off bus tour in Florence. With this, you can ride quickly between the top attractions and popular things to do, including the Ponte Vecchio and three world-famous art museums: the Uffizi Gallery , Accademia, and Bargello.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Florence

Between the attractions of Padua and Verona, Vicenza is often forgotten by tourists, but it's worth seeing for its multitude of buildings by the great 16th-century architect Andrea Palladio. His work, which has inspired architects ever since, was cited in naming the city a UNESCO World Heritage site .

Three of his major works are here. His masterpiece, the elegant Basilica Palladiana, forms one side of the main piazza, with its double row of colonnades. His last work, the Teatro Olimpico is a Renaissance version of the ancient Roman theaters, and with a clever optical illusion, it tricks your eyes into seeing a deep stage when it is actually very shallow.

Palladio's most recognized work to Americans is the villa La Rotunda, the inspiration for Thomas Jefferson's home at Monticello. The nearby Villa Valmarana is lavishly decorated in frescoes by Giambattista Tiepolo and his son.

• Read More: Best Tourist Attractions in Vicenza

The section of the River Brenta between Padua and its mouth at the Adriatic Sea in Venice has been canalized since the days of the Venetian Republic. Wealthy Venetian families built palaces along its shore, where they fled the city's heat in the summer.

The Brenta is still a popular place to go in the summer, when an excursion boat makes daily trips, stopping at palaces along the way. The favorite of these is in Stra, just outside Padua, where the 18th-century Villa Pisani (also called Villa Nazionale) sits amid splendid gardens.

The highlight of its 100-plus furnished rooms is the ballroom with its spectacular ceiling painting by Tiepolo in 1762. The villa has a distinguished history, having belonged to both Napoleon and later to the Hapsburg emperors. Be sure to try your luck in the world's most puzzling garden maze.

The Villa Widmann-Foscari-Rezzonico is worth visiting, as well. In the summer, you can cruise the canal between Padua and Venice or for a more active adventure, join a half-day guided bicycling tour along the canal, with a lunch stop in the waterside village of Dolo.

Frequent trains from Venice will take you north to the charming town of Bassano del Grappa, in the Dolomite foothills. The favorite landmark for photographers is the Ponte degli Alpini , a long covered bridge designed by Palladio.

The bridge was destroyed strategically in World War II by Italian partisans and later reproduced by Alpini soldiers. The Museo degli Alpini has memorabilia and photos from both world wars and of the famed mountain troops. In Piazza Garibaldi are the 13th-century Torre Civica and the even older Church of San Francesco , with 15th-century frescoes.

Bassano del Grappa has a long history as a pottery-making center, and you'll see examples of it in shops near the bridge. In a former convent cloister, the Museo Civico has more on the craft's history, and you can see more examples at the rococo Palazzo Sturm.

Not far from Asolo, Villa Barbaro may well be the most perfect marriage of painting and architecture of any Italian villa. Andrea Palladio, who gave his name to an entire new style of architecture that is a reference point for builders even today, designed a number of country estates and summer palaces in the 16th century.

For this one, however, he worked with the artist Veronese, and the lavish interior they created together showcases the genius of each. What appear to be architectural details are actually trompe l'oeil frescoes, creating sculpture, columns, balustrades, even windows, where none exist and adding a playful touch along with a sense of light and spaciousness.

This is often called the zenith of artistic achievement in Veneto's villas. If you can see only one of Palladian's villas, which were accorded a UNESCO World Heritage listing, make it Villa Barbaro.

On the grounds are the Tempietto, Palladio's only church outside Rome, and a carriage museum.

Address: Via Cornuda 7, Maser Treviso

St. Mark is thought to have spread Christianity to Roman Aquileia, one of the greatest and wealthiest cities of ancient Italy. Its basilica has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its major role in the evangelization of central Europe, as well as for its astonishing fourth-century mosaics.

The star attraction of the ninth-century basilica is from the earlier one that Attila the Hun burned in AD 425. Discovered in 1909, the fourth-century floors are the largest Paleo-Christian mosaic floor known in Western Europe. But it's not just their sheer magnitude that will fascinate you: the bird and animal designs are so intricate and detailed that you can see the expressions on the faces of people and animals they depict.

As if this weren't enough reason to visit, below the sanctuary is a ninth-century crypt whose walls and ceiling are covered in Byzantine-style frescoes from the 12th century. Behind the church is a moving cemetery from World War I, beyond which is the excavated Roman harbor, the partially reconstructed Forum , and the Museo Paleocristiano with sculptures, mosaics, glass, and other Roman artifacts.

Location: Località Monastero, Aquileia

The Friuli region stretches northeast from Venice through scenic vine-covered foothills into the Dolomite Alps . Scattered in this lovely countryside are small towns and villages that seem remote from the busy tourist centers, and where you can gain a feel for the Italian countryside and rural way of life.

Don't miss beautiful Cividale del Friuli, hanging on the edge of a ravine of erosion-sculpted limestone cliffs and spanned by the graceful arched Devil's Bridge. Among its buildings from the Middle Ages, you'll find an eighth-century Longobard temple , a passageway leading to a Celtic burial chamber from the third century BC, and a masterful silver altarpiece in the cathedral .

Farther north, the towns lie amid ever-taller craggy mountains. The area is perfect for a leisurely driving tour when you tire of crowded city streets.

A 90-minute drive from Venice , Asolo is a popular Sunday outing for local families, who stroll the arcaded streets to admire the frescoed houses and enjoy a meal in one of its restaurants. Queen Caterina of Cyprus was once given Asolo in exchange for the island of Cyprus, and later, Asolo was a favorite retreat of poet Robert Browning and other artists and literary figures.

You can find mementos of them in the A Museo Civico, housed in the elegant 15th-century Loggia della Ragione. From Queen Caterina's castle, Castello della Regina, you'll get views across the city and surrounding hills. A trip to Asolo can easily be combined with a visit to the Palladian Villa Barbaro and a stop to see the impressive fortifications of Castelfranco .

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

More Places to Visit on Day Trips from Venice: For a relaxing small-town experience, refreshing after the busy streets of Venice, travel the short distance to Treviso , often called "Little Venice" for its canals and lion-guarded gates. The gardens at Villa Barbarigo at Valsanzibio, south of Padua, were built for a wealthy Venetian family, and are some of the most beautiful gardens in Italy .

Exploring More of Northern Italy: East of Venice, and not on Italy's main tourist routes, Trieste shows its history as a part of Austria, with its architecture reminiscent of Hapsburg palaces. And from here, you can make day trips into neighboring Slovenia. But luring tourists in the other direction are all the things to do around Lake Garda , an especially popular place to go for families.

More on Italy

14 Amazing Day Trips from Venice, Italy

One of the major benefits of studying abroad in Italy meant that I got to explore a lot of the northern region! I used to often take day trips from Venice–there’s so many beautiful cities to visit if you have the extra time and the inclination. The best part? Most of these weekend breaks in Italy require just a quick train ride.

Awesome day trips from Venice

This guide shares some of the best day trips from Venice, Italy and what you can expect when you get there.

Home to some amazing food, Bologna to Venice takes about only an hour and a half by train to get there. Not only can you experience some amazing pasta, several great art museums, and endless porticos to discover, but you also get a taste of an entirely different region of Italy. Bologna is also much less touristy than other Italian cities, which gives you a look into locals’ lives.

This famous lake located in the Italian Alps has become an Instagram darling for good reason. You’ll need to take a two-hour train ride in order to reach this spot, which includes fancy resorts and boat rides throughout the day. As the largest lake in Italy, there are plenty of waterfront activities surrounded by the glory of some gorgeous mountains. For those looking to experience some nature in their excursions from Venice, this is where you want to be!

If you want to visit an equally-beautiful like, you can also head to Lake Como from Milan , as well.

Known mostly for “Juliet’s balcony” and the references to Shakespeare, Verona is a delightful town with an extensive Roman amphitheater and cute cafes you can’t miss in Piazza delle Erbe. (Some of the best coffee I’ve ever had was in Verona.) Don’t forget to stop by the Castle Vecchio and take some pictures overlooking the stunning bridge leading to it. The best part? Verona is only about an hour away by train and by far one of the most convenient day trips from Venice. 

Asolo and Castelfranco

While a little more difficult to get to than some of the other options on this list, these small towns include fortresses, amazing frescoes on the streets, and homemade goods you can take back home with you. I recommend doing these two trips together since it can require both a bus and a train to get to. Or, you can always book a tour that combines both places. For that small-town Italian village feel, both these spots are great choices. 

Four hours each way by train from Venice, Ravenna is worth the extra effort to visit! You have to check out the Neonian Baptistry, which includes a mosaic from the early Byzantine era–if you’re a UNESCO World Heritage Site lover, then you can’t miss this spot. Ravenna also has a number of other worthwhile architectural sites including Dante’s tomb, some beautiful churches, and more.

If you have spent any time in Venice, then you probably know about the architect Andrea Palladio. Vicenza was his home and his sandbox for a number of projects, including stunning villas and public projects. I highly recommend checking out the Teatro Olimpico for the set design. Designed with the newly refined concept of perspective in 1585, it appears as though the stage goes on infinitely. By far one of the best Venice day trips!

Personally, I think Florence needs much more time than a day trip and I recommend 2 days in Florence , but if you have a limited amount of time in Italy, then you might want to jump on a high-speed train (it will get you there in about four hours). If you only have a few hours in Florence, you’ll want to head right to the city center for its most famous attractions, including the Ponte Vecchio, Duomo , and more. Just make sure that you come back someday when you have more time!

The Dolomites

There is some stunning nature around Venice. Unless you have a car, I recommend taking a tour so you can get access to the best views and hiking trails in the area. If you aren’t in the mood to walk, consider taking a gondola up to some of the ski lodges–or strap on a pair yourself during the winter. Regardless, you’ll also want to check out the delightful town of Cortina. It combines the best of mountain culture of the Alps and the laid back attitudes of Italy–definitely one of the chiller day trips from Venice!

Lagoon Islands

You don’t have to go far to feel like you are getting out of Venice. With so many nearby islands such as Burano, Lido, Murano, and more, you can spend months exploring the area without having to get on a bus or train. You’ll want to check out the vaporetto schedule in order to make sure that you can get back at the end of the day. Each island has its own flavor, and they’re all worth visiting if you have the time.

This adorable town has plenty of reasons to consider it as one of the day trips from Venice to take. The Basilica di Sant’Antonio is worth taking a stroll through, as well as heading to some of the local markets available on the weekends. My main recommendation? The Cappella degli Scrovegni, which has been considered as one of the first Renaissance frescoes by Giotto. I personally loved Padua for its open feel and the Palazzo della Ragione–one of the largest town halls in Italy for hundreds of years.

Bassano del Grappa

This Swiss-feeling little town has a lot to enjoy–especially its Ponte Vecchio in the center of town. It’s also well-known for being the home of the first distillery in Italy dating all the way back to 1779. If you were wondering if this is where grappa comes from by the name, you’re completely right! There are also a number of awesome museums and opera shows to check out while you’re here.

Grotte del Caglieron

Open from 10:00 am until 4:00 pm Monday to Sunday, this spot features both natural and artificial caves with plenty of hiking and waterfalls. Those looking to see some of the more nature-friendly day trips from Venice, Italy will want to think about renting a car to get to this spot. Some of these caves were once used for aging cheese, and whether you are looking to get out of cramped Venice or get your nature fix in, this is definitely worth making the trip for.

Brenta Canal

Linking Padua and Venice, you can take a cruise down this lovely canal. When booking it, make sure it stops for a few hours at the beautiful Villa Foscari. Along with being a perfect example of Palladian architecture, it also has some extensive gardens worth strolling through. This is one of the most relaxing days to spend some time away from Venice.

Located on the Adriatic, Trieste offers a relaxed, vacation-like feel only about three hours away from Venice. Right across the border from Slovenia, you certainly get the feeling of being closer to Eastern Europe while still maintaining the look of Italy. Don’t miss the gigantic promenade where you can get a gelato and wander along the coastline. It can get a little cold in the winter, so make sure to visit during the warmer months!

Have you ever explored these day trips from Venice? Share your favorite in the comments!

Like this post? Save it for later!

Looking for more information on Italy? Check out these articles:

• 20 Awesome Museums in Italy You Won’t Want to Miss
• Best Things to Do in Lucca, Italy
• 22 Awesome Movies That Will Transport You to Italy
• Best Restaurants in Florence, Italy

Alex is the founder of Alex on the Map, a site devoted to national park guides, hiking, climbing, and enjoying your outdoor adventures. After growing up near Glacier National Park in Montana, Alex now spends summers in the American West hitting up the trail with her husband and dog.

Her work has been featured in Fodor's, the Huffington Post, Bustle, and many more. She has also been featured in publications such as The Washington Post, CNN, and USA Today.

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Day Trips from Venice, Italy – Over 35 Unmissable Destinations with Travel Times, Sightseeing Plans, and Best Tours

By Author Rossi Thomson

Posted on Last updated: 4th September 2022

Categories Day Trips in Italy , Veneto , Venice

Here are the best day trips from Venice, Italy.

In this blog post, you will find over 35 unmissable destinations that you can easily visit from the city of water. you can travel independently either by train, bus, boat or car. alternatively, you can join an organised tour..

Venice has a lot to offer to the curious traveller eager to experience the best in art, history, and architecture. Still, if you have more than a couple of days at your disposal for Venice, then make sure that you set aside some time to discover what lies in the Venetian Lagoon and on the Italian mainland.

It is a great opportunity to change the scenery and see more of Italy and who wouldn’t like that?!

Venice is a great starting point for your exploration of the sights and beauty of Northern Italy . The city of water enjoys great connections by boat , road , and train to a number of must-see destinations. From the islands of Murano and Burano in the Venetian Lagoon to the cities of history and art – Padua , Bologna , Verona , and even Florence – there are many places near Venice to visit on a day trip.

So, these are my suggestions for the best day trips from Venice, Italy. I have personally visited each of these places of interest during the six years that I spent living in Italy. Here I share with you first-hand tried and tested information so that you can choose where to travel for a short trip from Venice based on your personal preferences.

Italy is an exciting country with a rich heritage. The more you see the more you want to see and to experience it all. So, take your pick according to your interests – art, nature, architecture, history, shopping, even spa and wellness!

For ease of use, I have split these Venice day trips into the following alphabetised categories:

• Islands in the Venetian Lagoon
• Cities and Towns
• Lake Garda with Lakeside Towns and World-Class Amusement Parks
• Sights of Natural Beauty
• Medieval Towns and Villages
• Venetian Villas

For each of these best day trips from Venice I have included:

• a photo  to give you a visual idea what to expect;
• for the larger destinations – a shortlist with the most important sights  that can be seen in a day;
• for the smaller destinations – a concise overview ;
• travel times  by train, coach, boat, and/or car if you are travelling independently;
• organised tours if you prefer to have it all planned and done for you by a professional guide;
• tips how to make the most of your time at every destinations;
• (where available) links to  detailed overviews and exciting videos  to help you organise your day trip. The videos are hosted on  my blog’s Facebook page . If you haven’t liked it yet, I would really appreciate it if you could!

The maximum travel time is three hours one way. However, most destinations in this list are within half an hour to two hours away from Venice. After all, no one wants to spend a large chunk of the day just getting there when there is so much to see and do within very close proximity to the city on water.

At the end of this blog post, I have also added a selection of tips to help you navigate the Italian railway and road systems like a local. This way you can easily organise your day trip from Venice and feel at ease taking a boat, riding the train or renting a car as you see fit.

Now, let’s start!

Day trips from venice, italy – over 35 unmissable destinations with travel times, sightseeing plans, and best tours, i. islands in the venetian lagoon.

While Venice is the unrivalled star of the Venetian Lagoon, close to the city on water you will find several other islands that are worth a visit. Easy to reach on board of the vaporetti (water buses) that crisscross the lagoon from early in the morning til late in the evening, these islands will reveal to you their own stories, local crafts, priceless works of art, and wonderful settings.

Here are five unmissable island destinations to see on a day trip in the Venetian Lagoon. Each of them is unique in many different ways. From the colourful houses of Burano to the fish markets of Chioggia, there are many discoveries to be made right next door to Venice to leave you with memories that last a lifetime.

The best bit is that you can easily visit two or more of the Venetian Lagoon islands on the same day. Either independently or as part of an organised tour, they are a pleasure to discover in any season on a day trip from Venice.

Click here to buy a vaporetto ticket valid from 1 to 7 days so that you can move freely within the city of Venice, reach the islands in the Venetian Lagoon, and different parts of the mainland. For organised tours from Venice to the most beautiful and interesting islands in the lagoon, see the suggestions below.

1. Venice to Burano Day Trip

Burano is one of the most famous islands in the Venetian Lagoon on account of its technicolour houses and the centuries-old local tradition of handmade lace. Just looking at a photo of Burano makes you want to see for yourself this wonderful vibrant island that is so full of life.

It is easy to reach Burano from Venice. You just need to hop on vaporetto line number 12 from Fondamente Nove to the island.

Here are some of Burano’s major sights for you to explore and enjoy on a day trip from Venice:

• Lace Museum – discover the roots and the pinnacles of Burano famous handmade lace in this small and neat museum. It opens your eyes and your heart to this centuries-old craft. Click here to buy a combined ticket for the Lace Musem on Burano and the Glass Museum on Murano – a great idea if you are visiting both islands.
• Church of San Martino – a 16th-century church with a 17th-century bell tower that is 53 m tall and leans almost two metres off-true.
• Bepe’s House – this is the most colourful house on the island of Burano. It is covered with stripes and geometric figures in vibrant shades. You will find Bepe’s House down a tiny side street. His original owner – Bepe (now sadly passed away) – loved repainting his house and on warm summer evenings would screen old films on the small square next to it.
• Lunch on risotto de go’ and snack on esse cookies. The former is Burano’s staple dish – a lovely, creamy risotto made with the juice of go’ – a tiny fish from the Venetian Lagoon. The latter are Burano’s traditional cookies which can be either round or S-shaped and have a deeply satisfying flavour.

For its riot of colours, peaceful side streets, wonderful lace traditions, and fresh seafood, Burano is an unmissable day trip from Venice.

Travel Times:  Around 40 mins by vaporetto (water bus) from Fondamente Nove in Venice. Click here to buy a vaporetto ticket valid from 1 to 7 days.

Best Organised Tours:

Tips:  Starting from Burano, you can easily visit several other islands in the Venetian Lagoon. The island of Mazzorbo, for example, is connected to Burano via a long wooden bridge. The islands of Torcello and Murano are an easy vaporetto ride away. Alternatively, you can hire a boat and head to the island of San Francesco del Deserto to visit the monastery there that was originally founded by St. Francis in 1220.   

Click here for further information:

• Photos of Burano here and here
• Photos of Mazzorbo here and here

2. Venice to Chioggia Day Trip

Chioggia is like a mini Venice but without the suffocating tourist crowds.

A city built on islands at the southern end of the Venetian Lagoon, a long bridge connects Chioggia to the mainland. Canals full of boats crisscross the city. Pastel houses draped with Italy’s most photogenic clotheslines line the streets.

Just walking around feels like a real treat. You pass by many churches full of priceless works of art, small restaurants serving the freshest seafood, and everywhere you look picturesque views open in front of your eyes.

Here are some suggestions for things to do in Chioggia:

• Boat trip  – take a tour boat for a fun ride around Chioggia in the Venetian Lagoon. Regular boat tours run through the day taking you close to several sights of historic and cultural value in the lagoon.
• Wholesale Fish Market  and  Retail Fish Markets  – Chioggia is one of the biggest and oldest fishing ports in Italy. Its wholesale and retail fish markets are lively places where tons of fresh seafood are sold daily. Make sure that you check the  opening times  in advance to make sure you are there at the right time. 
• Bell Tower of Sant’Andrea  and  Clock Tower Museum  – Chioggia claims to have the world’s oldest clock. See it on the facade of the 30-meter high Bell Tower of Sant’Andrea. Then visit the Clock Tower Museum inside the bell tower to see the clock’s mechanism and to learn its fascinating story.
• Museum of Southern Lagoon  – an ethnographic and archaeologic museum tracing the history of Chioggia through the centuries. 
• Museum of Adriatic Zoology  – here you can see the most important historical collection of marine animals from the Adriatic Sea.
• Duomo di Santa Maria Assunta  – Chioggia’s main church.
• Refugium Peccatorum  (also known as  Sagraeto ) – A statue of the Virgin Mary holding the Infant Jesus underneath a golden dome. It stands at  Piazzale Perotolo  just outside Chioggia’s Duomo.  Refugium Peccatorum  is a Roman Catholic title of the Virgin Mary. It means Refuge for Sinners. In the past, those condemned to death in Chioggia were allowed to stop in front of this statue of the Virgin and pray for their souls on the way to the scaffold. 
• Porta di Santa Maria  (also known as  Porta Garibaldi ) – an early 16th-century gate that in the past provided the only entry point into Chioggia.
• Corso del Popolo  – Chioggia’s main artery – a wide and beautiful street that is lined with shops, restaurants, palaces, and churches. 
• Ponte Vigo  – the prettiest bridge in Chioggia stands over Canal Vena – the city’s most important canal – and it opens beautiful views over the Venetian Lagoon. From the adjacent to the bridge Piazzetta Vigo, you can get a tour boat for a fun trip around Chioggia and a ferry to the nearby island of Pellestrina.
• Sottomarina  – a lively suburb of Chioggia with a sandy beach that is 10 km long and up to 300 m wide. The sand is rich in augite, quartz, silicates, and micaceous elements making the beach ideal for sand bathing treatment.

Come to Chioggia if you want more of Venice but at a much slower and gentile pace of life. This small town on the Italian Adriatic coast is older than Venice and just like it is criss-crossed by canals. Chioggia is full of character, easy to navigate even by car, with tons of fresh seafood, huge beaches within a very close reach and, above all, there are no maddening crowds. You can take it easy and observe the locals at what they have been doing for centuries: fishing, lacemaking and seafood selling, cooking and eating. When in Chioggia, don’t miss the following sights and experiences:

Chioggia will give you a good idea of what Venice would have been like today had it not become a maritime and commercial powerhouse centuries ago. This city in Veneto is full of character, easy to navigate, and with tons of fresh seafood. There are huge beaches within a very close reach, and, above all, there are no maddening crowds.

In Chioggia, you can take it easy and observe the locals at what they have been doing for centuries: fishing and lacemaking. All in all, it’s a great destination for a city break or a day trip in this corner of Italy. 

Travel Times: Around mins by vaporetto (water bus) from Fondamente Nove in Venice. Click here to buy a vaporetto ticket valid from 1 to 7 days.

Chioggia will give you a good idea of what Venice would have been like today had it not become a maritime and commercial powerhouse centuries ago.

Travel Times: Getting from Venice to Chioggia by train is a long and tiring trip. Go there by boat instead. Take the No. 11 vaporetto or water bus from the Lido S.M.E. (the main Lido vaporetto stop) to Chioggia’s historic center and you will be enjoying the beautiful vistas of the Venetian Lagoon all through the journey. Or you can take the bus which leaves from Piazzale Roma in Venice and takes 1 h 11 mins to reach the beaches of Sottomarina. This website has very detailed information about reaching Chioggia from different points in Venice.

Tips:  For more information about what to do and see in Chioggia, click here to read my article about this charming fishing town.

3. Venice to Lido Day Trip

4. venice to murano day trip, 5. venice to torcello day trip, ii. cities and towns.

Italy is blessed with some of the most beautiful and interesting in terms of art, history, and traditions cities and towns in the world.

Finding yourself in Venice with time to spare you will feel like a child in a huge playground – super excited and a bit lost where to start your day tripping from.

My suggestion is to explore the nearby main cities first. Especially, if you are in Venice for a short amount of time.

Your top options are Padua, Vicenza, Verona, Bassano del Grappa, Ferrara, Bologna, and Brescia. They are all from half an hour to two hours one way from Venice and very easily reached by train or car. A day will be just enough to see their main sights and to whet your appetite for many future returns. Otherwise, feel free to dig into this list for many more ideas for day trips from Venice, Italy.

Venice to Bassano del Grappa Day Trip

Bassano del Grappa is a picturesque city on the shores of the crystal clear river Brenta. The Venetian Prealps serve as its dramatic backdrop. Founded in the 2nd century BC, today Bassano stands out with its medieval and Venetian architecture.

Here you will find the remains of a medieval castle (used for opera performances each summer), fortified city walls, lovely cobbled piazzas, and many old buildings with faded frescoes on their facades. Winged lions (the symbol of the Republic of Venice of which Bassano was once part) can be spotted all over the city’s historical centre.

Bassano is famous as a centre of production of  grappa – a traditional for Italy potent alcoholic drink made of grapes. It is often assumed that this Italian city owes the second part of its name to the drink. Instead, Bassano was named del Grappa in 1928 to commemorate the soldiers who lost their lives in the decisive battles that were fought on the nearby Mount Grappa during the First World War.

Here are some of Bassano del Grappa’s major sights for you to explore and enjoy on a day trip from Venice:

• Ponte degli Alpini  – a wooden covered bridge straddling the river Brenta. A bridge has stood in the same place since the Middle Ages. It was destroyed several times. In 1569, the renowned architect Andrea Palladio rebuilt the bridge giving it its current magnificent shape. The bridge’s tumultuous history didn’t stop there though. In the centuries that followed, it was destroyed again and again in wars and force major events. The last time this happened was at the end of the Second World War. Each time the bridge was erected again following Palladio’s original designs.
• Duomo   di Santa Maria in Colle  – Bassano’s cathedral was originally built around the year 998 and its imposing body is still a wonder to behold.
• Piazza della Liberta’  and  Piazza Garibaldi  – Bassano del Grappa’s beautiful main squares. At Piazza della Liberta’ don’t miss the 15th-century Loggia del Comune with the splendid astronomical clock on its facade. You can go up the steps and walk inside the loggia free of charge for a great view of the square below.
• Civic Museum  – housed in a former Franciscan convent, the Civic Museum of Bassano del Grappa has an archaeological collection, a medieval section, a number of artworks by the likes of  Canova  and father and son Tiepolo, as well as a whole room dedicated to Jacopo del Ponte (also known as Jacopo Bassano – the city’s most famous Renaissance painter). The adjacent cloister holds a lapidarium and it’s also used for contemporary art installations.
• Church of St. Francis  – an impressive 12th-century church next door to the Civic Museum. It has a 14th-century crucifix among several other important works of art.
• Palazzo Bonaguro  – this is where the Natural History section of Bassano’s Civic Museums is housed.
• Palazzo Sturm  – a lovely historic building that houses two museums.
• Poli Grappa Museum  – here you can learn all about the potent Italian drink grappa and see how it is made.
• Hemingway and the Great War Museum  – after being wounded in the First World War, the great writer Ernest Hemingway spent three months in Bassano del Grappa. The villa where he stayed has been turned into a museum. 

Bassano del Grappa is the perfect day trip from Venice. On one hand, it is small enough so that you can walk everywhere and cover all of its sights in a day. On the other hand, it offers a great variety of things to see and enjoy so that you can easily fill up a day with a spot of sightseeing, some nice shopping, and relaxed people-watching over a lovely lunch.

Travel Times:  From 1 h 14 mins by Regionale train from Venezia Santa Lucia train station. From 1 h 5 mins to 1 h 40 mins by car from Piazzale Roma in Venice.

Best Organised Tours: Click here to book a great day trip from Venice taking in Bassano del Grappa as well as the beautiful village of Asolo. Expect a vineyard stopover where you can sample the locally produced Prosecco as well as a visit to one of the most beautiful and famous Venetian villas designed by Andrea Palladio. Otherwise, click here to see the full range of tours available in Bassano del Grappa, Italy.

Tips:  Bassano del Grappa is particularly famous for the locally made ceramics. There are many shops selling wonderful and whimsical ceramic pieces produced by small family-owned workshops. Stock up on imaginative hand-painted cups, plates, terrines, and bowls in order to take a piece of Italy home with you. Visit the  Ceramics Museum G. Roi  in Palazzo Sturm in town to learn more about the tradition of ceramics in Bassano del Grappa, Italy.  

• Photos of  Bassano del Grappa , Italy

Venice to Bologna Day Trip

Come to Bologna for its excellent food, medieval history and the oldest University in the world still in continuous operation today. In a day, you can see most of Bologna’s main sights some of which are:

• Archiginnasio – the first permanent seat of the University of Bologna;
• Asinelli and Garisenda towers – witnesses of Bologna medieval past when close to 200 towers graced the city’s skyline;
• Basilica of Santo Stefano (also known as Sette Chiese) – built over what was originally a temple of the goddess Isis and then grew into a complex of seven interconnected chapels and churches;
• Neptune’s Fountain;
• Quadrilatero – the city’s medieval market which is still going strong;
• Piazza Maggiore – lined up by splendid palaces like Palazzo d’Accursio and the largest brick cathedral in the world – the Cathedral of St. Petronius;
• Endless porticoes keeping you from rain and shine alike.

Very different to Venice, Bologna will give you a chance to see Italy in a new light. Plus, there is simply no chance to have bad food in the city which is known as La Gorda (the Fat One) Italy-wide.

Travel Times: From 1 h 25 mins (Frecciarossa and Frecciargento) and from 1 h 51 mins (Regionale Veloce).

Tips: For more information about what to do and see in Italy’s seventh most populous city, click here to read my article about Bologna.

Venice to Brescia Day Trip

Brescia is a hidden gem in the Italian province of Lombardy. While most tourists head over to the Lombardian capital Milan, make sure that you get off the train at Brescia to experience its unexpected beauty. The city’s history spans 3200 years and offers a rich tapestry of sights and museums for you to explore. Among these are:

• Monumental area of the Roman Forum – which contains the best preserved Roman public buildings in Northern Italy;
• Huge medieval castle with battlements, a tower, drawbridge, rampart and an Arms Museum in the keep. Its position on the steep Cidneo hill also offers unparalleled views over Brescia;
• Many spacious squares lined up by stunning buildings. Don’t miss the Art Deco Piazza della Vittoria (with its Torrione – the first skyscraper built in Italy) and the Renaissance Piazza della Loggia (with the inspiring Palazzo della Loggia and the beautiful astronomical clock ).
• Duomo Vecchio and Duomo Nuovo (The Old and the New Cathedrals);
• Monastic Complex of San Salvatore/Santa Giulia (Santa Giulia City Museum) – with 11 000 works of art and archaeological finds;
• Teatro Grande – a lavish opera house.

There are so many things to see and experience in Brescia, you can have a very full and exciting day there. Make sure that you plan well so as to cover as much ground as you can.

Travel Times: From 1 h 47 mins (Frecciarossa) and from 1 h 55 mins (Regionale Veloce).

Tips: Try the local cheese Bagoss. It is produced in small quantities in the nearby village of Bagolino and it has a lovely dense and salty flavour with hints of walnuts and chestnuts. On your descent from Brescia Castle, stop at ‘ Gelateria e… di Bedont R & Martha ‘ (Via dei Musei, 20a). Here you will find some of the best gelato in Italy. My favourite is the fiordilatte with caramelised sesame seeds flavour.

Venice to Ferrara Day Trip

Ferrara is beautiful and has so much to offer to the discerning traveller eager to learn more about Italy’s medieval history and art. Ruled by the House of Este in the 14th and 15th centuries, the city boasts several splendid palaces, a Romanesque cathedral with a fabulous facade, and 9 km of ancient defensive walls which are (alongside those of Lucca in Tuscany) the best preserved Renaissance walls in Italy. Ferrara’s historical centre is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Some of the main sights here are:

• Castello Estense – an iconic medieval brick building surrounded by moat in Ferrara’s heart;
• Cathedral of San Giorgio with its lace-like facade, the construction of which started at the beginning of the 12th century;
• Palazzo dei Diamanti – the seat of the National Gallery;
• University of Ferrara with its Botanical Garden – Copernicus being one of its most notable students;
• Natural History Museum with a dreamy building;
• Teatro Comunale – its internal courtyard (called Rotonda Foschini in honour of the engineer Antonio Foschini) will make you marvel at its perfectly elliptical shape.

Ferrara is also an incredibly easy city to explore with children in tow. Head over there to give your little ones a chance to run and have fun in the many playgrounds installed all over town.

Travel Times: From 1 h 4 mins (Frecciabianca) and 1 h 27 mins (Regionale Veloce).

Tips : Come to Ferrara in September when Italy’s most important ballooning event takes place. Over nine days colourful baloons fly over the historical centre of Ferrara twice a day. The Ferrara Balloons Festival is held in the Bassani Urban Park just outside of the city’s Renaissance defensive walls. It is a big event with thousands of people flocking to see it, with pop-up restaurants and lots of entertainment options for little ones and grown-ups. Click here to find out more.

Venice to Lake Garda Day Trip

Lago di Garda is Italy’s biggest lake. Its shores are dotted with picturesque towns and villages and its landscapes leave you breathless. You can get there very swiftly from Venice to experience la dolce vita in its true sense. Medieval castles, Roman ruins, frescoed houses, lake views, nature hikes, spa procedures, boat trips, sublime gelato. You can savour it all in one perfect day. Peschiera del Garda, Desenzano del Garda and Sirmione are three of the towns on Lake Garda which you can reach with ease from Venice. Don’t miss:

• Fortress and external fortifications in Peschiera del Garda – part of UNESCO’s World Heritage Site list;
• Archaeological Museum, castle, old villas and Tower of St. Martin in Desenzano del Garda ;
• Scaliger Castle,  Grottoes of Catullus (the ruins of a huge Roman villa), spa treatments, beaches and boat trips around the promontory in Sirmione ;
• Several large amusement parks and aquaparks are nearby. Check Gardaland, Caneva The Aquapark and CanevaWorld Movieland among others.

Lake Garda and the towns on its shores offer so many options and so much beauty to experience in a day that even the traveller who really knows their mind will find it difficult to choose. As such, make a plan before you go so that you can see as much as possible and yet feel refreshed and full of happy memories at the end of the day.

Travel Times: From 1 h 26 mins (Frecciarossa) and 1 h 46 mins (Regionale Veloce) to Peschiera del Garda. From 1 h 31 mins (Frecciarossa) and 1 h 56 mins (Regionale Veloce) to Desenzano del Garda/Sirmione

Tips: Lake Garda is gorgeous to visit any time of the year. August tends to be crowded, but any other month (including Christmas) the place is gorgeous. Beware that most historical sights are closed on Mondays. Look into visiting Lazise, Malcesine, Limone sul Garda, Garda, Bardolino, Riva del Garda and Torbole, if you are looking for more ideas as to cute little towns to see on the shores of the lake. For more tips and information about Lake Garda, have a look at my articles here , here , here , here and here .

Venice to Medieval Walled Towns Day Trip

Within very easy reach of Venice, you will find a gorgeous bunch of medieval walled towns. With their defensive walls and museums they are able to make the heart of a history and art buff sing with happiness and appreciation. Here are three for your consideration:

• Bassano del Grappa – an elegant town sat on the banks of the river Brenta. The Venetian Pre-Alps serve as its dramatic backdrop. The main sight here is the Alpini Bridge, the striking structure of which has become Bassano’s symbol. A very pleasant day can be spent in this town exploring its streets and museums (one of which is dedicated to the local strong drink  grappa ). When you reach the main square look up and admire the astronomical clock on the façade of one of the buildings. It is one of my most favourite things to see in charming Bassano.
• Castelfranco Veneto – the cutest of the pack. A largely intact defensive wall circumnavigates the town’s historical centre. Don’t miss Giorgione’s House, then visit the adjacent 18th century cathedral where you can admire the artist’s breathtaking  Castelfranco Madonna . The views from the Torre Civica are worth the steep steps to reach the tower’s top. If you can, come in September, when the town holds a Medieval Fair .
• Cittadella – one of my most favourite small towns in Northern Italy . Here you will find ‘Europe’s best medieval parapet walkway’. In simple English this means that you can circumnavigate the whole town by walking on its medieval defensive wall. For this you need to climb 14 meters up the wall via narrow passages and steep steps and then follow a path by the battlements. At certain points you will need to go even higher – up to 30 meters in fact. All this exercise will offer you an unparalleled view of the old town encircled by the wall and, beyond it, the Pre-Alps on the horizon.

There are many medieval walled towns in the Veneto. The three I have suggested above are some of the most splendid and easiest to reach from Venice. If you want more suggestions, check out: Asolo , Marostica and Noale .

Train Times: From 1 h 11 mins (Regionale) to Bassano del Grappa. From 48 mins (Regionale) to Castelfranco Veneto. From 1 h 17 mins (Regionale Veloce and Regionale) to Cittadella.

Tips: You can explore Castelfranco Veneto and Cittadella in one day. There is a direct train line connecting these two medieval walled towns, so that you can spend the morning in one and the afternoon in the other. This particular train line starts in Vicenza (see point 10 below) and finishes in Treviso (see point 8 below), so you can also combine a visit to either Castelfranco Veneto or Cittadella with a visit to Vicenza or Treviso and make it a mega day trip to remember.

Venice to Padua Day Trip

Tucked between Venice and Verona, Padua is often overlooked for one of these two much more famous cities. Still, if you look into it, you will soon discover that the art, the museums, the history and the shopping make Padua a real gem to have in your travel schedule. The city is mainly known as the setting for Shakespeare’s ‘Taming of the Shrew’, but when you are there, don’t miss the following sights:

• Scrovegni Chapel with its stunning frescoes by Giotto. Tickets are in demand and tied to a time slot, so head there as soon as you arrive or book in advance;
• Palazzo della Ragione – read more about it here;
• Padua’s 800 years old daily market (Sundays excluded) which is still going strong – read more about it here;
• Palazzo del Bo – the seat of Padua’s University. Founded in 1222, it is one of the oldest in Europe. This is where Galileo Galilei used to teach. You can visit the historical part of the University as part of a guided tour taking place several times a day;
• Prato della Valle – a huge elliptical square with a surface of 90 000 sq m which is the biggest in Italy and one of the biggest in Europe;
• Orto Botanico – the oldest botanical garden in the world. Read more about it here ;
• Basilica of St Anthony of Padua – where the body and the relics of the saint are venerated;
• Caffe Pedrocchi – two hundred years old and one of Italy’s historical coffee houses. It used to be open 24/7. You will find its beautiful building right by Padua’s Palazzo della Ragione.

There are so many unique and wonderful things to be seen in Padua, it is impossible to mention them all here. The train journey from Venice takes less than half an hour, so it makes for a wonderful day trip.

Travel Times: From 26 mins (Regionale Veloce, Frecciarossa, Frecciargento, Eurocity).

Tips: Set some time aside to explore Padua’s hidden gems. Visit the Church of the Eremitani to see the Mantegna frescoes. Read here the amazing story of how they were destroyed during the bombings of the Second World War and then decades later restored using advanced mathematical calculations. Don’t miss the Baptistery right next to Padua’s Duomo. It is covered in splendid frescoes and photos there are not allowed, so you can immerse yourself in a beautiful moment of art appreciation. Another little gem is St. Anthony’s School (just off the Basilica of St. Anthony) which is covered in frescoes (mainly) by Titian. Finally, when in Padua, don’t miss the fabulous cakes and sweets typical for this beautiful Italian city. Click here to find out more about them.

Venice to Treviso Day Trip

People usually fly into Treviso and then head straight to Venice, completely bypassing this rather very pretty Northern Italian city. Don’t make the same mistake. Treviso with its breathtaking frescoed and decorated buildings and narrow curving streets guarantees a day of exciting exploration. Some of the main sights here are:

• Piazza dei Signori – the main square where you can admire the imposing Palazzo dei Trecento – built in the 13th and the 14th centuries, it was the seat of Treviso’s Highest Council (the main administrative body of the city) and nowadays it houses the municipal council.
• Loggia dei Cavalieri – an elegant structure with faded frescoes in the heart of the old town. It was built in the 13th century to serve the local nobility as a place for meetings, conversations, and games.
• La Pescheria – a small river island in the historic centre of the city where the fish market is held. 
• San Francesco Church – a prime example of the late Romanesque/early Gothic style, this church was used as a stable by Napoleon’s troops. Here are the tombs of  Petrarch’s  daughter Francesca and  Dante’s  son Pietro.
• Church of San Nicolo’ – for its many frescoes and also the earliest depiction of spectacles (eyeglasses) in Europe.
• The seven-domed cathedral where you can admire a Titian and a very atmospheric crypt among other things.

Travel Times: From 37 mins (Regionale) and from 30 mins (Regionale Veloce).

Tips: Treviso is the birthplace of a dessert, a vegetable and a drink which make our lives so much better. The first one is tiramisu – that glorious dessert made with coffee- and marsala-dipped ladyfingers which are then layered with mascarpone beaten with raw eggs. The second one is the radicchio rosso – also called Italian chicory in English. Its bitter taste is a great complement to any fresh salad, plus it is very tasty grilled and added to pasta dishes, too.  The third one is prosecco which nowadays is incredibly popular in the UK. You can combine half a day in Treviso with a visit to a nearby medieval walled town. Castelfranco Veneto and Cittadella are both very easy to reach from Treviso’s train station.

Venice to Verona Day Trip

Fair Verona doesn’t need an introduction. This is, after all, the Italian city which is forever linked in our hearts with the story of Romeo and Juliet. Verona is worth a day trip from Venice not just because of its Shakespearean links though. The city has a rich Roman and medieval past, a worldwide known opera festival and enough sights and places of interest to keep you occupied and excited for several days. Take your pick:

• Piazza Bra – one of the largest squares in Italy where you will find Arena di Verona – once used to host gladiator fights and nowadays one of the finest concert venues in the world. This is where the famous Verona Opera Festival is held every summer. It is important to note that the Arena pre-dates Rome’s Coliseum by around a century;
• Piazza delle Erbe – lined up with beautifully frescoed buildings and the gorgeous Palazzo Maffei. Don’t miss the adjacent Piazza dei Signori with the statue of Dante at its heart;
• Torre dei Lamberti – the tallest tower in Verona which was built in 1172. It offers you inspiring views over the red rooftops of the city;
• Roman Amphitheatre – built in the first century AD which is still used for stage performances today. Read more about it here ;
• Juliet’s house outfitted with the famous balcony (which, in fact, is a sawed in half sarcophagus) – if you go there though, make sure that you actually visit the house, as it gives you a fascinating look into life in the 13th century. Read more information about Juliet’s house here ;
• Castelvecchio – explore this medieval castle which nowadays houses a splendid art collection. Click here for more details.
• Giardino dei Giusti – a Renaissance garden first planted in the 15th century. From its top level you can enjoy stunning views of the city. Read more about it here;
• Scaliger Tombs – a group of Gothic funerary monuments in honour of Verona’s medieval rulers – the fearsome Scaligeri Family.
• Juliet’s Club – where the Secretaries of Juliet reply to letters sent from all over the world asking the Shakespearean heroine for advice in the matters of the heart. If this sounds interesting, click here to read my account of my visit to Juliet’s Club on the 14th February 2017.

There are so many museums, churches and places of interest in Verona, that you will be spoiled for choice. The good thing is that the city centre is easily navigable by foot, so you can walk everywhere and see as much as possible within a day. Just wear some very comfortable shoes.

Travel Times: From 1 h 10 mins (Frecciarossa) and from 1 h 27 mins (Regionale Veloce).

Tips: Try the locally made sweets ‘Baci di Romeo’ and ‘Baci di Giulietta’ (literally ‘Romeo’s Kisses’ and ‘Juliet’s Kisses). They taste divine. Romeo’s version is made of almond paste and buttercream and Juliet’s is made of hazelnut paste and chocolate cream. They sell them in a few places around town. My favourite place to buy them from is a historical pasticceria called De Rossi. Here I hasten to add that I am in no way related to them and also, this is not an ad, just a personal recommendation as I love these sweets so much.

Venice to Vicenza Day Trip

Known as the Pearl of Renaissance, the Heart of Veneto, the City of Palladio and the Gold Town, Vicenza lies half-way between Venice and Verona in the Northern Italian region of the  Veneto . The city is a creative hub of art, jewellery traditions and one-of-a-kind events. Plus it is a veritable open-air museum of architecture. Its streets are lined with sumptuous palaces and buildings which have inspired architectural cannons all over Europe and North America for the past 500 years. This is also the city I have been calling home for the past three years. So, obviously, I have a lot of recommendations as to what to see and do here. Don’t miss the main sights:

• Basilica Palladiana – a stunning work of architectural art and the pearl in the crown of Palladio – the most influential architect of the Western world for the past 500 years who used Vicenza as his own personal architectural playground;
• Piazza dei Signori – Vicenza’s central square surrounded by Palladio’s buildings and seeped in history;
• Church of  St. Mary of Mount Berico – overlooking the city and one of Italy’s most important and visited sanctuaries;
• Teatro Olimpico – the theatre designed by Palladio where you can see the world’s oldest surviving stage set still in use today. Click here to read more about this jewel of Vicenza;
• Many lavish jewellery shops confirming the fact that Vicenza is one of Italy’s most important centres of jewellery making;
• Jewellery Museum – the first in Italy. Read more about it here ;
• Church of Santa Corona – see the precious works of art by Bellini and Montagna. Worship the thorn from Christ’s Crown which has been sheltered here for centuries (for security reasons, the thorn is shown to the public only on big Christian holidays, the rest of the time it is kept in the nearby Diocesan Museum);
• Villa Capra ‘La Rotonda’ and Villa Valmarana ai Nani – within a short walk from Vicenza’s train station, you can see two of the most famous and most beautiful Venetian villas. La Rotonda is one of the most copied buildings in the world and it has inspired the design of the White House.

For all that it has to offer, Vicenza keeps itself away from the trodden tourist track. This makes it all the lovelier to explore and peaceful to enjoy. If you are an architecture aficionado or are looking for that rare gem of a city which has it all but it lacks crowds and cheapened attractions, come to Vicenza for a day trip from Venice to remember for years to come.

Travel Times : From 43 mins (Frecciarossa) and from 45 mins (Regionale Veloce).

Tips: Have a look at the Vicenza category of blog posts here for a detailed inside look on what to see, eat and do in this exciting yet off-the-beaten-track destination in Northern Italy.

Venice to the Villas of the Veneto Day Trip

When the summer heat made Venice unbearable, its rulers and noblemen decanted en masse to the elegant villas they had built for themselves on the mainland. Designed by the best architects, covered in frescoes and surrounded by manicured gardens, the villas were akin to small palaces and just as lavishly furnished. Enjoy a day exploring some of these villas and see yet another facet of Venetian history. Some of the most splendid villas within an easy reach from Venice are:

• Villa Pisani – the mother of all Venetian villas equipped with a maze, gorgeous gardens, water features and as much art as you can take in a day;
• Villa Foscari ‘La Malcontenta’ – designed by Palladio, it impresses with its monumental architecture and lavish frescoes;
• Villa Foscarini-Rossi – where, apart from the beauty of the villa itself, you can also see the Museum of the Shoes with over 1500 pairs of shoes created by the most feted designers.

Visiting a villa or two (or even three) is a pleasant and easy way to have a day trip from Venice to remember. In a way, you still feel like you are in Venice, for the history and the art of the villas are intrinsically connected with the powerful Venetian families of the day, yet there are no crowds and, in summer, the gardens offer shade to take refuge from the scorching Italian sun.

Travel Times: From 50-55 mins for Villa Pisani and Villa Foscarini-Rossi – from 26 mins by train (Regionale Veloce, Frecciarossa and Frecciargento) to Padua, followed by bus 53E to Stra (about 22 mins). Then walk about half a km to the villas. About 19 mins to Villa Foscari ‘La Malcontenta’ – take bus 53E from Corsia B7 at Piazzale Roma in Venice and get off at Chiesa. The villa is less than 500 m away from the bus stop.

Tips: There are many more villas to explore around Venice. A comfortable, yet quite pricey way to see a bunch of them is to join a river cruise which will take you up the river Brenta on the shores of which lie many of the more splendid villas.

Travel Tips and Tricks for Unforgettable Day Trips from Venice, Italy

I. public transport options for day trips from venice, italy.

Depending on where you want to head for the day from Venice, you will travel either by boat, train or bus (or a combination of two of them). The public transport system in Italy is very well-developed, generally inexpensive, and very easy to use.

I use the following websites to check public transport options and to get an idea of travel times and ticket prices for day trips from Venice, Italy:

1.  Google Maps – for travel times and itineraries as well as for available public transport options.

2. Ticket Tours  – for public transport tickets (water bus and land bus) in and around Venice and the Venetian Lagoon. It’s also great for booking trips to the islands in the Venetian Lagoon. For example, this hop-on hop-off tour with an audio guide and this tour to Murano, Burano, and Torcello .

3.  Omio – my go-to train travel website in Italy and Europe. It gives me all the available train destinations, travel times, connections, and price points. It also allows me to buy tickets for all types of trains in Italy (Frecciarossa, Frecciargento, Intercity, Regionale Veloce, and Regionale) in advance.

4.  Italo Treno  – a private train company running its own branded high-speed trains. Often announces discount codes on its  Facebook page . It’s best to buy tickets well in advance from their website as the prices may increase dramatically the closer to the day of travel it gets.

5.  FS Bus Italia Veneto  – for information about bus and coach travel in the Northern Italian region of Veneto .

II. Tips and tricks for day trips by boat and boat/bus from Venice, Italy

Due to its geographical location in the heart of the Venetian Lagoon, Venice is a city of water where cars cannot be used and boats are the main form of transport.

A long railway and road bridge – Ponte della Liberta’ – connects Venice to Italy’s mainland thus giving you a chance to quickly travel to many large Italian cities and smaller Italian towns on a day trip from Venice. If you want to visit one or some of the islands in the Venetian Lagoon though, a boat (and in fewer cases, a combo of boat and bus) is the only way to get there.

Here are some tips and tricks to help you enjoy unforgettable day trips by boat and by boat and bus from Venice, Italy:

1. There is a dense system of public water buses – called vaporetto – that serves Venice and connects it to the nearby islands and certain points on the mainland. You can have a look at the official website of Venice Urban Services for exhaustive details about types of transport, lines, destinations covered, and current prices.

2. There are also tour boats , private boats, and water taxis (known as motoscafo) that can be hired for day trips and tailor-made itineraries.

3. Travelling by boat (a vaporetto, a tour boat or a private boat) in the Venetian Lagoon is a very pleasant experience. There is no other way to fully appreciate the beauty and history of Venice and the nearby islands than to see them from the water. At the same time, during the high season, vaporettos quickly fill up with people and you may need to stand upright for most or all of the journey.

4. You can buy single tickets, a day ticket or a multi-day ticket for Venice’s vaporettos. Bear in mind that it is much more economical to buy a day ticket or a multi-day ticket than purchasing a single ticket every time you need to catch a vaporetto.

5. Make sure that you buy your ticket in advance and validate it before boarding the vaporetto.

6. You can easily reach the most popular destinations in the Venetian Lagoon – Murano, Burano, Torcello, Lido di Venezia, and Chioggia – by vaporetto from Venice. I have provided details in the section Islands in the Venetian Lagoon above.

7. Vaporettos and ferries will also take you to Venice from certain points on the Italian mainland. For example, Punta Sabbioni , Cavallino-Treporti , and Terminal Fusina .

8. In addition, if you want to visit the island of Pellestrina, for example, then you will need to take a vaporetto from Venice to the island of Lido di Venezia and then a bus to Pellestrina. The interesting thing here is that Lido di Venezia is connected to Pellestrina by a ferry. So, when you reach that point of the journey, the bus drives onto the ferry for the short crossing of ten minutes or so. The photo above shows you the views from the top floor of this small ferry between the two islands.

9. If you want to visit the Sottomarina beaches near Chioggia, then you will also need to take a bus there once you’ve reached Chioggia either by boat or boat and bus from Venice.

III. Tips and tricks for day trips by train from Venice, Italy

Train travel in Italy is generally very well organised. You can get from A to B quickly and (in most cases) rather cheaply. Here are some tips and tricks to help you enjoy unforgettable day trips by train from Venice, Italy:

1. Depending on their speed, there are different types of trains in Italy:

• Frecciarossa , Frecciargento , and  Italo Treno  are the high-speed trains which will zip you from Venice to Bologna , Verona , Milan , and Florence in no time.
• Regionale Veloce  stands for fast regional trains. They connect Venice to many Italian towns and cities and travel at rather fast speeds.
• Regionale  are the slowest trains of them all. They stop at all small towns and villages along the way.

2. Where possible, try to travel by  Regionale Veloce :

• The tickets for this type of train are several times cheaper than the tickets for the high-speed trains Frecciarossa, Frecciargento, and Italo Treno.
• The Regionale Veloce tickets also don’t fluctuate in price, so you can buy them on the day.
• For example, a one-way ticket from Venice to Vicenza with the Frecciarossa train currently can cost as much as 21 euros if you buy it online. If you take a Regionale Veloce train, you will pay only 6.50 euros. The difference in travel times is only 2 mins. Frecciarossa takes 44 mins from Venice to Vicenza. Regionale Veloce takes 46 mins.

3. Travel by Frecciarossa / Frecciargento and  Italo Treno to destinations that are at a significant distance from Venice. For example, Bologna , Florence, Lake Garda , and Milan .

• You will pay more but you will spend much less time in transit.
• In this case, try to buy your tickets in advance online, as they will be cheaper than buying them on the day at the train station.

4. Travel by Regionale trains only if there are no other options. They are cheap, but they can take a very long time.

5. Here is some useful information if you are buying your train tickets on the day of travel at the train station:

• Lines for the ticket office can be long and slow-moving so arrive with plenty of time to spare.
• You can use the ticket machines to either buy a ticket or print a ticket bought online.
• Beware that some ticket machines only take cards and others take both cards and cash. Check the symbols in the upper right corner of the machine to make sure you are using the correct machine depending on how you want to pay.
• The ticket machines are multilingual – you can select the language you want at the start of the operation.
• Keep your luggage close and your valuables closer. It pays to be vigilant at all times, especially at large busy train stations. I have never been pickpocketed in Italy but I have had people approach me right when I was in the middle of buying a ticket. They either wanted to chat, asked for a donation or tried to engage me otherwise. A firm and loud ‘No!’ and a refusal to engage seem to work.

6. If you are travelling by Regionale Veloce or a Regionale train, don’t forget to validate your ticket before boarding the train:

• Look for the small oval machines attached to walls and pillars at train stations and train platforms.
• Insert the ticket in the machine’s slot, pushing it in and as much to the left as it would go and then wait for the whirring sound. Take your ticket out and check if the machine has printed a long line with digits on your ticket. The first few digits are the time and the date.
• You don’t need to validate tickets for Frecciarossa / Frecciargento and Italo Treno trains. These are usually tickets with an assigned seat and for a train leaving at a particular time.
• You need to validate all tickets for Regionale Veloce and Regionale trains.
• Tickets for the Regionale Veloce and the Regionale trains are ‘open’, in the sense that you can use them for any such train on the day you purchased the ticket for.
• However, once validated, your ticket is valid for the next 4 hours. In other words, you need to board the train within the four hours after having validated your ticket.
• If you forget to validate your ticket and still board the train, make sure that you find the ticket inspector as soon as possible. Explain your case and be very polite. Ticket inspectors in Italy are very strict and the fines for travelling without a validated ticket are rather large. Pleading ignorance of the rules is not helpful. I have seen ticket inspectors in Italy easily switch to English, French, and/or German, so pretending that you can’t understand them doesn’t work either.

7. Trains arrive a couple of minutes before the time of departure, so they stay on the platform a little longer than trains in England, for example, where they arrive and leave within a very short window of time.

8. Trains often have two floors with upstairs and downstairs seats. For the best views, go upstairs.

9. Always buy your ticket before you travel. If you are caught without a ticket, with the incorrect ticket or a not validated ticket, you may be given an option to buy a ticket at a higher price, but most often than not, a large fine will be issued immediately and you will need to pay it on the spot.

In Conclusion

More helpful venice info for you.

Venice:   Essential Tips , Hidden Gems ,  Nearest Airports ,  Boats in Venice ,  Haunted Venice ,  Arco del Paradiso Venice Videos:   Grand Canal ,  St. Mark’s Square at Carnival ,  St. Mark’s Square ,  View from Rialto Bridge ,  View from Accademia Bridge ,  Venetian gondolas ,  Historical Regatta ,  Squero di San Trovaso ,  Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo ,  Fondazione Querini Stampalia ,  Palazzo Grimani ,  Rialto Fish Market ,  Ca’ Macana ,  Festa della Madonna della Salute

More Helpful Italy Info for You

Best of Italy:   Italian Piazzas ,  Italian Food ,  Italian Markets ,  Italian Coffee Culture Northern Italy: 18 Best Cities to Visit Lake Garda:   Best Towns ,  Nearest Airports ,  Travel Options ,  Lake Garda with Kids , Malcesine , Riva del Garda , Torri del Benaco Lake Como:   Things to See ,  Nesso Veneto:  Best Cities to Visit ,  Top 15 Places ,  30 Adventures ,  15 Most Colourful Places Friuli Venezia Giulia:   Venzone ,  Most Beautiful Villages Emilia Romagna:  Bologna ,  Ravenna ,  Comacchio ,  Most Beautiful Villages Marche:   6 Reasons to Visit ,  Gradara ,  Frasassi Caves ,  Temple of Valadier Verona:   Things to Do in One Day ,  Day Trips from Verona Padua:   Things to Do in One Day ,  101 Facts About Padua ,  10 Reasons to Visit Padua ,  Day Trips from Padua Vicenza:   Things to Do , Best Museums ,  Day Trips from Vicenza

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Saturday 27th of August 2022

Trying to figure out whether to go to Milan and do day trips from there, go to Naples/Sorrento and stay in that area or go to Venice (I've been there and love it). I am really leaning towards staying Venice and doing day trips. Looks like it's very easy to get around and a lot more to see than I anticipated. Thank you for all this information!

Monday 29th of August 2022

Thank you for stopping by and for your nice comment! Have a wonderful time in Italy!

Rossi Thomson :)

Monday 8th of July 2019

Great article. It has given me lots of ideas for my first solo trip to Venice in autumn. Thanks

Tuesday 9th of July 2019

Thank you, Rose! Have a great time in Italy. Best wishes,

Sunday 13th of January 2019

Rossi Your blog is amazing and it has given us great ideas for day trips from Venice that we will be definitely using when we go to italy Much better than the usual tripe you get on line Bravo Jim [from Australia]

Thank you for your kind words! I hope you have a great time in Italy! Best wishes, Rossi :)

Wednesday 27th of June 2018

We are so thankful we stumbled onto your blog! Your article on the 11 best day trips in northern Italy helped us make a decision to take the train from Venice to Padua for the day. We followed your itinerary and had a MOST pleasant visit to the city. We bought the Padua card with the Scrovegni Chapel ticket. Went to St. Anthony’s Basilica, Padua University, and Palazzo Ragione, as well as the coffee shop.

I am so glad to hear this! Padua is a lovely city. Thank you very much for your very kind words. With best wishes,

Tuesday 15th of May 2018

Thank you for this! I will be using it to plan our two days post-cruise in October.

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Day Trips From Venice

Best Day Trips From Venice

Make Venice a Base for Exciting Day Trips in the Region

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

Venice is a beautiful city to visit, and certainly has enough attractions and diversions to keep you busy for at least several days to a week or more. But if you have the time and want a break from the canals of Venice, there are many excellent nearby options for day trips as well. The Veneto region holds interesting towns and cities outside Venice, most easily reached by public transportation.

Venice's Top Islands

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson 

Murano, Burano, and Torcello are the top three islands to visit on day trips from Venice. Murano is known as the island of glassmakers, Burano has canals lined with picturesque colored houses and is known for lace making , and Torcello is a green island where you can see Byzantine mosaics in the 7th-century Cathedral. 

• Getting There: From Fondamenta Nove, Vaporetto Number 41 or 42 to Murano, or Number 12 to Burano and Torcello.

Venice Lido

Venice Lido is a long strip of land off the Venice coast. The Lido is lined with beaches and is a good place for nightlife, shopping or to get away from the tourist crowds in Piazza San Marco. In early September, the Venice Film Festival is held on the Lido. There are shops, restaurants, bars, and hotels (often less expensive than in Venice) on Venice Lido, as well.

• Getting To the Lido: Vaporetto Number 1 from Piazza San Marco. Vaporetti run from other parts of Venice, too.
• Read more about going to the beach in Italy .

Venetian Villas on the Brenta Riviera

Along the Brenta Canal between Venice and Padua are a number of beautiful ancient villas, some designed by famous Renaissance architect Andrea Palladio. Although most can only be viewed from outside, some of the former gardens are now public parks and a few villas are open to visitors.

• Getting There: You can take a bus that runs from Venice (from Piazzale Roma) to Padua, stopping in Mira or Stra, although the best ways to visit are by boat or car.

Padua (Padova) is a walled city east of Venice. It has Europe's oldest botanical gardens, the Basilica di Sant’Antonio, and Scrovegni Chapel frescoes by Giotto. The gardens and Basilica are across town from the train station, a pleasant walk through the historic center.

• Getting to Padua: Trains from Venice to Padova take about half an hour and run frequently.

Treviso is a pleasant medieval town north of Venice with canals and alleyways running through its center. The defensive walls, town gates, and moat can still be seen. Treviso's center, a short walk from the train station, is a nice place for wandering or enjoying a drink in a cafe.

• Getting There: Trains from Venice to Treviso take about half an hour and run frequently.

Chioggia, a fishing port in the Venetian lagoon, is sometimes called "Little Venice." A wide pedestrian street lined with cafes and restaurants runs down the center of town to the port. Chioggia has a great morning seafood market, clock tower museum, and the Museum of the South Lagoon. Beaches are 2 km from the center. It's a nice place for relaxing and good for day trips to Venice in ​the summer.

• Getting to Chioggia: In summer, a direct tourist boat runs from Saint Mark's Square to Chioggia. At other times, vaporetti or train connections can take two hours.

Vicenza was an important city from the 15th through 18th centuries. Famous Renaissance architect Palladio was from Vicenza and he designed 23 of the buildings in the city, including Palazzo Barbaran da Porto that houses the Palladio museum. The Basilica Palladiana is considered by many to be Palladio's masterpiece. With a car, you can tour Palladian villas outside Vicenza.

• Getting to Vicenza: Trains from Venice to Vicenza take about forty-five minutes and run frequently.

Verona, sometimes called the Florence of the North, is famous for the house and balcony said to belong to Juliet in the Shakespeare story, "Romeo and Juliet." Verona has a 2,000-year-old Roman Arena where summer opera performances are held, a Roman bridge and a market square that was once the Roman Forum. Verona is one of Italy's most visited cities.

• Getting There: Trains from Venice to Verona take between 60 and 90 minutes.

Bassano del Grappa

Bassano del Grappa is a pretty medieval town below Monte Grappa on the Brenta River. Bassano del Grappa is known for its Alpine wooden bridge, grappa, and ceramics. It's a pleasant base for exploring the nearby Venetian villas, castles, towns, and attractions of the Veneto region.

• Getting There: Trains from Venice to Bassano del Grappa take about 90 minutes.

Original article by Martha Bakerjian.

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The Top 10 Things to Do with Kids in Venice

9 easy day trips from Venice by train you can’t miss

If you're heading to Venice and have a few extra days on hand, plan some sightseeing adventures with this list of easy day trips.

• 1 Artistic marvels in Padua
• 2 Verona between romance and history
• 3 Treviso, the Little Venice
• 4 Vicenza and its architectural treasures
• 5 Bassano del Grappa and its historic distilleries
• 6 Brescia, the town with tho cathedrals
• 7 Ferrara, the Renaissance gem
• 8 Bologna, the ultimate foodie escape
• 9.1 Pssst… Pin this article for future reference and get in touch if you have any questions about your day trips from Venice!

Ah, Venice! No matter how much time I spend in this beautiful city, it’s never enough. But hey, I get it, some of you might want to explore further afield once you’ve seen all the top sights. After all, Italy has such a rich and diverse heritage that once you’re here you want to cover as many sights as possible, right?

There are some great places near Venice that are well worth a visit, each a treasure trove of unique experiences. From the artistic wonders of Padova to the gastronomic delights of Bologna, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

Obviously, one day won’t be enough to see everything, but you’ll be sure to leave with a ton of travel memories and plenty of reasons to come back soon.

This article only features destinations within a two-hour train ride from Venice (except for the last one). After all, you don’t want to spend most of your day trip traveling, right? 

At the end of the page, you’ll find a link to my guide to train travel in Italy, which will help you navigate the Italian railway system. This way, you can easily book train tickets for your sightseeing adventures.

So, these are my suggestions for some great day trips from Venice.

Artistic marvels in Padua

Padua is my top choice when it comes to side trips from Venice. It’s super quick to reach and offers many beautiful things to explore. 

The main attraction is the Scrovegni Chapel, where Giotto painted stunning frescoes listed among the most important works of Western art. 

You can see one of the oldest universities in Europe, whose faculty once included Galileo Galilei. This is also where a woman got an academic degree for the first time ever.

Other highlights include the world’s very first botanical garden dating from 1545, and Prato della Valle, one of the biggest squares in Europe.

Padova is also a deeply religious city and its Basilica of Saint Anthony is a major pilgrimage site in Italy. Don’t miss a visit for the stunning architecture and pay homage to the saint’s relics.

How to get from Venice to Padova by train: it’s an easy half-hour train ride using either Trenitalia (opt for Regionale Veloce or Frecciarossa trains) or Italo.

Val’s tip: Caffé Pedrocchi may be the most famous historic venue in Padua but there are many other spots to explore: try gelato at Gelato da Ruggero and stock up on food souvenirs at Drogheria ai Due Catini d’Oro.

Read more: 1 day itinerary in Padua

Verona between romance and history

If chasing your inner Romeo and Juliet fantasies has always been your secret dream, then you should visit Verona.

Here, you can see all the iconic sites associated with the story of the two Shakespearian lovers, including the famous balcony and the tomb of Juliet, hidden in a 13th-century convent.

Verona offers also a wealth of fascinating attractions to explore, all reflecting the city’s vibrant history. For instance, Castelvecchio is the city’s medieval heart, featuring a museum and panoramic ramparts, while the Scaligeri Tombs are considered one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in northern Italy.

A must-see in Verona is the Arena, built before Rome’s Colosseum and now the best-preserved Roman amphitheater in the world. Today, it serves as a fascinating open-air opera house.

For a taste of Renaissance landscaping, be sure to visit the Giardino dei Giusti, a beautiful garden that first opened its doors to the public in the 16th century.

How to get from Venice to Verona by train:  it takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes to get from Venice to Verona. You can use either Trenitalia (Frecciarossa or Regionale Veloce) and Italo trains.

Val’s tip:  one of my favorite things to do in Verona is visiting Juliet’s Club, where I can be one of Juliet’s secretaries for a few hours! I wrote about it here .

Read more: What to see in Verona in 2 days

Treviso, the Little Venice

Treviso is a charming town often overshadowed by more renowned cities in Veneto, yet it boasts a wealth of attractions. It’s an excellent choice if you’re seeking a change of pace after the bustling crowds of Venice.

Within its historic walled center, you’ll find Renaissance palaces, bridges, and canals that earned Treviso the nickname “Little Venice”. 

Start your exploration from Piazza dei Signori, the main square full of cute shops, cafés and historic buildings. Among them is the imposing Palazzo dei Trecento, where communal assemblies took place back in the day.

Key highlights of your visit include a multi-domed Cathedral featuring a beautiful Annunciation by Titian and the Church of San Nicolò, where you can see the first pair of spectacles ever depicted in a work of art. And don’t miss the Treviso fish market, charmingly located on an islet in the town center.

How to get from Venice to Treviso by train:  the train journey is about 30 minutes with either Trenitalia (Regionale Veloce or Regionale) or Italo.

Val’s tip:  if there’s one in place in Italy where you should feast on Tiramisù and glasses of chilled Prosecco, that’s Treviso. This town is the birthplace of the famous Italian dessert (the restaurant that invented it is still there – Le Beccherie ), while Prosecco is produced in the hills just outside town.

Vicenza and its architectural treasures

Vicenza’s primary appeal lies undoubtedly in its architectural wonders. This is the city where the 16th-century architect Andrea Palladio – the guy who influenced architectural standards worldwide for the past 500 years – crafted exquisite villas and palaces, earning Vicenza a coveted spot on the UNESCO World Heritage list. 

Thanks to Palladio’s influential work, Vicenza stands as an extraordinary open-air museum. The most impressive sites include La Rotonda, whose design inspired the White House, and the Olympic Theatre, where you can see the world’s oldest surviving stage set still in use.

The town is also renowned for its jewelry-making tradition, so make sure to include also a visit to the Jewellery Museum, the first of its kind in Italy. 

How to get from Venice to Vicenza by train : it’s a 45-minute journey with either Trenitalia (Frecciarossa or Regionale Veloce trains) or Italo.

Val’s tip: if your day trip to Vicenza falls between April and September, be sure to enjoy an aperitivo at  Terrazza della Basilica , a fabulous panoramic café at the top of the Basilica Palladiana!

Bassano del Grappa and its historic distilleries

For a change of scenery, consider heading to Bassano del Grappa, a charming little town nestled in the Venetian Pre-Alps. 

Palladio also left his mark here, specifically on the town’s most iconic sight – the Alpini Bridge. This wooden covered bridge spans the river Brenta and was reconstructed by the Renaissance architect in the 16th century after being destroyed multiple times.

Bassano is renowned for producing Italy’s strong alcoholic drink, grappa. Two excellent places to delve into the world of this famous Italian distillate are Grapperia Nardini, the country’s oldest distillery, and the Poli Grappa Museum.

Fans of grappa include Ernest Hemingway, who served as a voluntary driver for the American Red Cross here during World War I in 1918. This villa is now a museum dedicated to the writer. 

How to get from Venice to Bassano del Grappa by train:  the journey is about 1 hour and 15 minutes with the Regional trains provided by Trenitalia.

Val’s tip: don’t leave without trying a“Mezzo Mezzo”, the local aperitivo.

Brescia, the town with tho cathedrals

Often overshadowed by its bigger sister Milan, Brescia is a beautiful town in Lombardy that you can easily visit on a day trip from Venice.

Brescia and its province are home to 5 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, a testament to the town’s rich cultural heritage. 

To begin with, Brescia boasts one of the largest archaeological sites in northern Italy. Trust me, as soon as you see the Roman Forum, you’ll think you’re in Rome.

More surprises await you at the stunning Santa Giulia museum complex, featuring a remarkable array of attractions spanning over 2,000 years of history. A highlight is the famous Cross of Desiderius decorated with 211 gemstones.

Brescia also boasts elegant historic squares with lots of lovely cafés, a splendid opera house, a large medieval castle, and two fabulous cathedrals, all of which make it an ideal day trip destination from Venice.

How to get from Venice to Brescia by train:  the journey time is about 1 hour and 50 minutes with Trenitalia (Frecciarossa trains) and Italo.

Val’s tip:  if you visit in June, you might see the Mille Miglia, the world’s most famous vintage car race. Crews come from all over the globe and the itinerary covers seven Italian regions, from Brescia to Rome and back.  

Read more: A day trip to Brescia

Ferrara, the Renaissance gem

Your day trips from Venice could also take you to the Emilia Romagna region, more precisely to the charming town of Ferrara.

The history of this town is closely tied to the powerful Este family, who ruled it between the 13th and 15th centuries. They transformed Ferrara into a thriving cultural center that attracted artists such as Piero Della Francesco, Jacopo Bellini, and Andrea Mantegna, making sightseeing here particularly fascinating. 

Its historic center is just adorable, surrounded by ancient defensive walls and filled with charming cafes and captivating streets like Via delle Volte and Corso Ercole I d’Este, considered Europe’s longest street without shops.

Notable attractions in Ferrara include Castello Estense (one of the few castles in Europe still surrounded by a water-filled moat), the superb Palazzo Diamanti, and the San Giorgio Cathedral with its stunning marbled facade. 

For a hidden gem, pay a visit to the Monastery of Sant’Antonio in Polesine and ask the residing nuns to see the chapel, where you can find some wonderful frescoes from Giotto’s school.

How to get from Venice to Ferrara by train:  Italo makes it easy to get to Ferrara in 1 hour. Alternatively, you could also take the Frecciarossa (1h) or Regionale Veloce (1h30min) trains from Trenitalia.

Val’s tips : Ferrara is extremely bike-friendly, offering numerous interesting cycle paths to explore. Consider renting a bike for your day trip.

Read more: Things to do in Ferrara, Europe’s first modern city

Bologna, the ultimate foodie escape

Since we are talking about Emilia Romagna, how about treating yourself to a full day of food and wine experiences in Italy’s culinary capital? 

Bologna boasts numerous sights that can’t be explored in a single day, from Europe’s oldest university to 40 km of UNESCO-listed porticos. Therefore, why not plan your day trip around one of the town’s best assets – food! 

Start by exploring the local specialties at Bologna’s ancient food markets—Quadrilatero and Mercato di Mezzo. Then, take a seat at one of the communal tables of L’Osteria del Sole , the world’s oldest tavern dating back to 1465. They don’t serve food, just drinks, so your market shopping will come in handy. 

For a more hands-on experience, consider trying your hand at making tortellini and tagliatelle by participating in a cooking class at the home of a local sfoglina (that’s what they call the past-making ladies in Bologna). 

If you are travelling with kids, a gelato-making class at the  Carpigiani Gelato Museum  is also a great idea (it’s a 30-minute bus drive from Bologna train station).

How to get from Venice to Bologna by train:  it takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes with Trenitalia (Frecciarossa or Regionale Veloce trains) and Italo.

Val’s tip:  every October, Bologna hosts the Tortellino Festival, an excellent opportunity to sample all the different varieties of the town’s famous food.

An art tour of Florence

I know many of you are interested in day trips from Venice to Florence, so here’s an idea.

But first, let me just say that while it’s technically possible to organize a day trip from Venice to Florence by train, I wouldn’t recommend it. The Tuscan capital has so much to offer that it rightly deserves a dedicated trip. 

Nevertheless, if you decide to go for it, you might want to focus on the Uffizi Gallery, Michelangelo’s David, and the complex of Florence Cathedral (including the fabulous views from Brunelleschi’s dome). Don’t forget to indulge in a schiacciata from L’Antico Vinaio and a gelato from Gelateria della Passera between sights.

How to get from Venice to Florence by train:  it takes 2 hours and 15 minutes on the Trenitalia Frecciarossa or Italo trains, so better leave Venice at dawn to make the most of your day trip

Tip:  carefully choose which parts of Florence you want to see and pre-book all the tickets and arrival time slots to avoid spending most of your day trip standing in line.

Pssst… Pin this article for future reference and get in touch if you have any questions about your day trips from Venice!

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3 Best Day Trips from Venice

By Andrea Whittle

If you’re in Venice for more than a few days, or you’re going back for the second or third time, it’s worth spending some time exploring the rest of the Veneto region. There’s plenty to see on day trips from Venice, whether you rent a boat and check out the distant islands of the lagoon, or head inland for some serious art and architectural history. The easiest, and probably most popular itinerary, is to combine visits to Torcello, Murano and Burano, the city’s outer islands known for their history of craftsmanship and colorful architecture. If the idea of visiting a smaller, less touristed city seems more like your thing, take the train to Padua for an afternoon. Or, you could do an architecture road trip, visiting the famed Palladian Villas, the former country houses of the Venetian elite built by a master renaissance architect.

Click the link to read our complete Venice guide .

Less than an hour from Venice by train, Padua is a perennially underrated (read: uncrowded) stop on the Veneto circuit. Art history buffs make the trip to see Giotto’s Scrovegni chapel alone, but it’s easy to build a day around the city’s other renaissance landmarks and sophisticated restaurants. Once you’ve secured timed tickets to the chapel—a must—build your day from there, with stops at the Basilica of St. Anthony and the Prato della Valle. For lunch or dinner, either splurge at the Michelin-starred Le Calandre or hit up the more old-school Ristorante Belle Parti.

Prato della Valle Arrow

Technically the largest square in Europe, the oval-shaped Prato della Valle is really more of a manicured park, with a grassy central island surrounded by a statue-lined moat and four tidy little footbridges. You'll see local students spread out for a nap on the lawn and tourists snapping photos of marble statues of Galileo or Petrarch. Take your time to check out the 78 statues that surround the central island—they tell the history of the city through its most important figures.

Ristorante Belle Parti Arrow

Located inside an old palazzo in the city center, Ristorante Belle Parti has the ceremonial, romantic vibe of a grand turn-of-the-century hotel. A ceiling with exposed wood beams hangs over a dining room with buttery-yellow light, white tablecloths, and low, unfussy flower arrangements. The food is traditional but not staid, with a few Southeast Asian accents here and there, like grilled squid with papaya or catch-of-the-day tartare with finger limes. It's best to focus on the seafood dishes on the menu, particularly the fish pastas.

Scrovegni Chapel Arrow

Scrovegni Chapel, which is completely covered in vivid, emotive frescoes by Giotto—including a deep-blue starry sky on the vaulted ceiling—is a true jewel box. Even if you never cared about Renaissance art before, the haunting biblical scenes and stunning use of color will blow you away. Because the space is so small, and because the art is so sensitive to environmental damage, you can only see it with a timed ticket that must be booked at least 24 hours in advance; we recommend reserving at least four days in advance.

Tom Vanderbilt

Alex Erdekian

Jessica Puckett

Shana Clarke

Le Calandre Arrow

Behind an unassuming facade on the outskirts of Padua, Le Calandre, a three-Michelin-starred restaurant, is slick without being cold and swanky without being intimidating. The food, best experienced with one of the three tasting menus is a complex, artful take on Italian cuisine. If you're in Padua for the day and want to splurge on one of the country's best fine dining restaurants, book dinner here.

Basilica of St. Anthony of Padua Arrow

Built in the 1300s, Basilica of Saint Anthony, a beloved church known to locals as "Il Santo," is a massive, gilded, glamorous mishmash of Gothic, Byzantine, and Romanesque styles, with a few Baroque chapels to boot. In addition to a chapel containing some of Christianity's most important relics, it's filled with bronze statues, ornate frescoes and marble work, a gilded ceiling, and light-filtering stained glass. Entry is free; just make sure you're wearing church-appropriate clothing.

Torcello/Murano/Burano

The most comfortable and efficient way to see Venice’s outer islands is to have your hotel hook you up with a boat for the day. It can be a little pricey, but if you have limited time, avoiding the sometimes Byzantine-seeming public vaporetto system is worth it. Plus, having your own boat makes it easy to build your own, one-day itinerary. Here’s how you do it: Head to Torcello first, for an early lunch in the garden at Locanda Cipriani and a wander through the Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta. Then, head over to Burano, known for its quaint rainbow of buildings and history of lacemaking and browse the island’s retro-chic linen stores. End the day in Murano, where the city’s artisan glassmakers still have all of their workshops, for some heavy-hitting souvenir shopping, a visit to the Museum of Glass, and finally, pasta and tiramisu at the lovely, low-key Osteria Acquastanca.

Locanda Cipriani Arrow

The Locanda Cipriani provides a pretty slice of Merchant Ivory-tinted Venice: a shady old-fashioned garden on the beautiful little lagoon island of Torcello, with old-fashioned service and old-fashioned food that verges on the hotel variety. That said, you’re here for the setting and the Grand Tour ambience. From Ernest Hemingway and generations of British royals, to mid-20th-century A-list actors and presidents: Many big names have passed through the Cipriani’s country-inn-style doors.

Museo del Vetro Arrow

Situated in a Gothic palazzo, this museum is dedicated to the traditional Venetian craft of glassblowing. It's the largest collection of Murano glass in the world, which might seem a bit niche until you get up close to the pieces themselves. They are spectacular: Ornate goblets so delicate you wonder how they even stand up, colorful handmade beads, and cut crystal are all arranged in rooms that range from frescoed great halls to modernist white cubes. The museum is well-curated, thoughtfully laid out, and visually fascinating. If you're remotely into design or decorative arts, this place is a must see.

Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta (Basilica di Torcello) Arrow

With its off-kilter bell tower and simple brick exterior, Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta, a small, 7th-century church, doesn't look like much from the outside. Inside, it's a Byzantine jewel box with glittering mosaics and floors covered with marble tiles. This is one of the oldest buildings in the Veneto region, and it's an interesting example of the Byzantine style that influenced some of the city's later, grander structures, like St. Mark's Basilica. Three euros gets you in the door; an extra two gets you a to-the-point audioguide.

Osteria Acquastanca Arrow

This tiny, cozy restaurant in Murano is probably the best food on the island. The menu focuses on fresh, light versions of the lagoon's greatest hits: The spaghetti alle vongole , polenta with baccala , gnocchi with vegetables and tagliolini with squid ink are all fabulous. And the desserts, especially the tiramisu and the lemon tart, are lovely. The place has a family-run vibe that leaves it felling casual, but special.

Museo del Merletto Arrow

Housed in a building that once housed the island's lacemaking school, Museo del Merletto offers an intimate, up-close look at the history of Burano's most famous craft. The collection, arranged chronologically, starts from the origins of lace in the 16th century and continues through the present today, with glamorous Renaissance examples laid out for careful inspection in tiered cases. The space is relatively quiet, save for some slow moving tour groups during the high season in summer and the lace tends to bring those with an air of pensive curiosity.

Palladian Villas

If you’re into real estate porn, it doesn’t get much more spectacular than the villas built by Andrea Palladio. The influential Renaissance architect was responsible for some of the most beautiful buildings of the 16th century, catering especially to the demands for country houses from Venice’s growing bourgeoisie. The structures themselves are classical in style, inspired by his study of traditional Roman houses, and often filled with stunning frescoes and surrounded by bucolic gardens. Perhaps the best known are Villa Foscari (a.k.a. “La Malcontenta”), Villa Almerico Capra, and Villa Maser. You could rent a car and pack a few into one day, or pick one and make an afternoon out of it, with stops to refuel at the funky, self-service Righetti (near La Rotonda) or the pizza spot Al Giardinetto (on the way to Foscari).

Villa Foscari (La Malcontenta) Arrow

Villa Foscari, a classically styled mansion, is perhaps the most famous of the legendary villas designed by the architect Andrea Palladio in the 16th century. On the outside, perfectly symmetrical porticoes overlook manicured lawns and a romantic stretch of river. Inside, the piano nobile (the main floor) is painted floor-to-ceiling with frescoes that tell the stories of Roman gods. Even though it's a UNESCO World Heritage site, it's actually still a private home (lived in by a family that forgoes all but essential electricity and lights the place with sunshine, candlelight, and fireplaces), so visiting hours are limited.

Al Giardinetto da Severino Arrow

Al Giardinetto, a casual pizza spot, just outside of Venice between Mestre and Marghera, is a solid choice for lunch if you're visiting Andrea Palladio's Villa Foscari, just down the road. The move: Skip the slightly clinical interior and grab one of the outside tables in the back. It's all about pizza here, and you can't go wrong if you stick to classics like prosciutto e funghi or a spicy diavolo. The dough isn't on the super-thin side—it's substantial, lightly charred, and chewy.

Villa Barbaro (Villa di Maser) Arrow

Villa di Maser, an elegant Palladian villa, with its wide portico and interiors filled with Veronese frescoes, is just as architecturally interesting as the others in the region. But it's also a working vineyard, with wine tastings and farmhouse tours on offer as well. It's open to the public Tuesdays through Sundays, from April to October, and advance booking isn't necessary unless you're with a larger group. For those who cringe at the idea of yet another tour, the fact that the villa is also a working vineyard will make this one more interesting.

Righetti Arrow

Righetti is what Italians call a "self restaurant"—similar to a buffet. You pick and set your own table, head to the back to ask for the plates you want, fill up your wine carafe from the tap, and enjoy. The only thing servers will bring directly to you is a post-lunch espresso, making the experience cozy, ultra low-key, and casual. The specialty here is homestyle Italian food: marinated grilled veggies, simple and hearty pastas, roasted potatoes, creamy blobs of polenta with stew, and straightforward, unadorned meat dishes. If you're driving around the region to see the Palladian Villas, this is a great place to stop for a casual lunch.

Villa Almerico Capra (La Rotonda) Arrow

Grander inside and out than many of the other buildings by Renaissance architect Andrea Palladio, Villa Almerico Capra, a domed hilltop villa, is a must for architecture buffs and anyone who loves a good house tour. There's no need to book in advance, but opening hours are mind-bogglingly complex: It's open year round, Tuesday through Saturday, for a few hours in the mornings and in the afternoons, but the interior is only open on certain days from March to November. When in doubt, check the villa's Facebook page or contact a staff member through the website.

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1 day and 2 nights - Venice Forum

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Day 2: Venice all day

With this limited time, we hope to buy a pass that would allow us to have skip the line entries to the Basilica and Doge, with or without guides. I must admit ... I am thoroughly overwhelmed and confused with all the various passes...and some with ACTV included. Any recommendation would be appreciated. ( I assume we should buy a 48 hour Vaporetto pass...)

11 replies to this topic

good info: https://en.venezia.net/venice-vaporetto-tickets.html

All passes/single tickets need to be validated in little machines near the boarding area. It's easy, you will see everyone do it. Don't forget or you can be fined.

Probably early since we're catching a train to Bolzano, then bus to Ortisei for few hiking days in Dolomites.

I will definitely check out the venezia.net link .

A single vaporetto ticket (mentioned in reply 2) is now €9.50 and valid for 75 minutes

Whoa! 9.50! The website I believe still posts 7.50. Maybe I read it wrong. Either way, thanks for correction SKA.

@Chestercat the price of the multi day passes have gone up too. If the website has the old single price it may have the old prices for those too. They are still the good value they were just more expensive.

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1FnRHXso0R-U92_OKEgYxL99gXdWYJBQMXBLG2uOAjeo/edit?usp=drive_link

Hi, if you find a hotel near the station (max 10 - 15 minutes on foot) you will not need the Actv day ticket, or you can limit it to one day (it lasts 24 hours from the first validation).

The historic center is totally accessible on foot.

Obviously you have to calculate travel times well, look at Google maps and multiply x2 or 2.5 based on your interest in photos, visit shops, stops at pastry shops and other places, crowds...

You go on foot, public transport is slow to avoid the wave motion, which is so harmful to the foundations of buildings.

You will immediately realize that you would like more time available 😉

Super helpful, everyone! Booking with "relevant sites" mean going to the website of the landmark directly and avoid Get Your Guide, etc? Our lodging is literally next to train station so I expect public transportation to be quite convenient.

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Venice’s First-Of-Its-Kind ‘Day-Tripper Tax’ Sparks Outrage

I n Venice, a city so beautiful that other countries claim their city is "the Venice of [insert geographic descriptor]" tourism remain steadfast. A 2020 study by the Department of Economics at the Ca’Foscari University of Venice found that the city welcomes 30 million visitors annually. But more than 20 million of those spend less than one day in the city, Forbes’ James Ferrell reports.

“It’s out of control. We’ve become Italy’s answer to Disneyland,” Lidia Fersuoch, a Venice native, told the Wall Street Journal  last year.

On April 25— the day when Italy celebrates its World War II liberation from Nazi Germany —Venice became the first city in the world to charge tourists an entry fee . The tax, which is on a trial run for more than two dozen peak travel days through July 14, only applies to those 20 million day-trippers, who must pay €5 to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site .

This new charge comes after the city almost landed on UNESCO’s “World Heritage in Danger” list last year, and in recent years, the city and country have taken significant steps to curb the influx of tourists and the effects of climate change. Large cruise ships can no longer traverse Venice’s waters, sea barriers prevent high tides from flooding the sinking city and officials have begun tracking tourists via their cellphone data to monitor movements in the area, the New York Times’ Elisabetta Povoledo reports.

The fee is for day visitors older than 14 during the peak tourism hours of 8:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Day visitors can purchase tickets accessible via mobile device in advance. With no turnstiles at city access points, the rule is enforced by inspectors making random checks, Reuters '  Alex Fraser and Manuel Silvestri report.

Those who enter the city without a ticket, enter on a date other than the date specified on the ticket or lie to obtain an exemption are subject to a fine of €50 to €300 plus €10 for the entry fee.

Italy’s central government authorized the fee in its 2019 budget, but implementation was delayed until this month due to the Covid-19 pandemic and prolonged prepartions, James Imam reports for The Art Newspaper .

Authorities hope the tax will deter tourists from visiting the city on peak days and make the main island more livable for its remaining population. Smithsonian magazine  reported in 2021 that large tourist crowds have ravaged Venice by polluting and overcrowding central areas.

“We need to find a new balance between the tourists and residents,” Simone Venturini, the city’s top tourism official, told the Associated Press’ Colleen Barry. “We need to safeguard the spaces of the residents, of course, and we need to discourage the arrival of day-trippers on some particular days.”

But, in its first week in effect, the tax was met with dismay, as about 1,000 protestors gathered in Piazzale Roma and clashed with police in riot gear, CNBC’s Trevor Laurence Jockims reports.

“We are against this measure because it will do nothing to stop overtourism,” resident Cristina Romieri tells Reuters. “Moreover, it is such a complex regulation with so many exceptions that it will also be difficult to enforce.”

Various groups are exempt from the fee, including students, residents, commuters and holders of the European Disability Card and their companions. The fee also does not apply to overnight visitors, who already pay a tourist tax, but must apply for an exemption online.

“We rose up against the mayor’s idea of a closed city, a museum city,” Ruggero Tallon, one of the main protest organizers and the spokesperson for anti-cruise ship campaign group No Grandi Navi, tells CNN ’ s Julia Buckley. “A ticket does nothing. It doesn’t stop the monoculture of tourism. It doesn’t ease the pressure on Venice. It’s a medieval tax and it’s against freedom of movement.”

Gabriella Pappada, a visitor from Lecce in southern Italy, believes the entry fee is inequitable, as it imposes additional monetary constraints on travelers, tells Reuters.

“I consider Venice to be the most beautiful city in the world and so to deprive a person on a low budget of the opportunity to come here for an hour or two to enjoy this city is surely a shame for these tourists,” Pappada said.

Other European cities, like Amsterdam and Barcelona , have overnight tourist taxes to mitigate the effects of mass tourism. And in 2025 , the European Union’s ETIAS travel authorization will go into effect, requiring foreigners to pay a nominal fee to enter EU countries. 

“The only way [forward] is to repopulate the city – we have 49,000 inhabitants and there are more beds for tourists than residents,” Tallon said. In  1951 , Centro Storico di Venezia—the historic center of Venice, Italy—hosted a resident population of almost 175,000. Today, that number is less than 50,000. “Let’s try to make it possible for people to live here. Every house that’s lived in is a house taken away from tourism,” Tallon added.

Venice launches pilot day-tripper entry fee to tackle mass tourism

Under the gaze of the world’s media, the fragile lagoon city of Venice launches a pilot program Thursday to charge day-trippers a 5-euro (around $5.35) entry fee that authorities hope will discourage visitors from arriving on peak days and make the city more livable for its dwindling residents.

Issued on: 25/04/2024 - 08:32 Modified: 25/04/2024 - 08:47

Signs advising arriving visitors of the new requirement for a test phase of 29 days through July have been erected outside the main train station and other points of arrival.

Some 200 stewards have been trained to politely walk anyone unaware of the fee through the process of downloading a QR code. A kiosk has been set up for those not equipped with a smartphone. Once past designated entry ports, officials will carry out random checks for QR codes that show the day-tripper tax has been paid or that the bearer is exempt.

Transgressors face fines 50 euros to 300 euros. The requirement applies only for people arriving between 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. Outside of those hours, access is free. 

“We need to find a new balance between the tourists and residents,’’ said the city’s top tourism official, Simone Venturini. “We need to safeguard the spaces of the residents, of course, and we need to discourage the arrival of day-trippers on some particular days.”

Venice has long suffered under the pressure of over-tourism, but officials say that pre-pandemic estimates ranging from 25 million to 30 million visitors a year — including day-trippers — are not reliable and that the pilot project also aims to come up with more exact figures to help better manage the phenomenon. 

By contrast, registered visitors spending the night last year numbered 4.6 million, according to city figures, down 16% from pre-pandemic highs.

Venturini said the city is strained when the number of day-trippers reaches 30,000 to 40,000. Its narrow alleyways are clogged with people and water taxis packed, making it difficult for residents to go about their business. 

Not all residents, however, are persuaded of the efficacy of the new system in dissuading mass tourism, and say more attention needs to be paid to boosting the resident population and services they need. 

Venice last year passed a telling milestone when the number of tourist beds exceeded for the first time the number of official residents, which is now below 50,000 in the historic center with its picturesque canals.

“Putting a ticket to enter a city will not decrease not even by one single unit the number of visitors that are coming,’’ said Tommaso Cacciari, an activist who organized a protest Thursday against the measure.

“You pay a ticket to take the metro, to go to a museum, an amusement park; you don’t pay a ticket to enter a city. This is the last symbolic step of a project of an idea of this municipal administration to kick residents out of Venice,” he said.

Venturini said about 6,000 people had already paid to download the QR code, and officials expect paid day-tripper arrivals Thursday to reach some 10,000. 

More than 70,000 others have downloaded a QR code denoting an exemption, including to work in Venice or as a resident of the Veneto region. People staying in hotels in Venice, including in mainland districts like Marghera or Mestre, should also get a QR code attesting to their stay, which includes a hotel tax.

The tourist official says interest in Venice's pilot program has been keen from other places suffering from mass tourism, including other Italian art cities and cities abroad such as Barcelona and Amsterdam.

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Venice tests charging an entry fee for day-trippers as the city tries to handle overtourism

Authorities hope the 5-euro fee will discourage visitors from arriving on peak days and make the city more livable for its dwindling residents

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VENICE, Italy – Under the gaze of the world’s media, the fragile lagoon city of Venice launched a pilot program Thursday to charge day-trippers a 5-euro ($7.33) entry fee that authorities hope will discourage visitors from arriving on peak days and make the city more livable for its dwindling residents.

Visitors arriving at Venice’s main train station were greeted with large signs listing the 29 dates through July of the plan’s test phase that also designated separate entrances for tourists, and residents, students and workers.

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“We need to find a new balance between the tourists and residents,” said Simone Venturini, the city’s top tourism official. “We need to safeguard the spaces of the residents, of course, and we need to discourage the arrival of day-trippers on some particular days.”

Not all residents, however, are persuaded of the efficacy of the new system in dissuading mass tourism, insisting that only a resurgence in the population will restore balance to a city where narrow alleyways and water buses are often clogged with tourists.

Hundreds of Venetians protested against the program, marching festively though the city’s main bus terminal behind banners reading “No to Tickets, Yes to Services and Housing.” Protesters scuffled briefly with police with riot gear who blocked them from entering the city, before changing course and entering over another bridge escorted by plainclothes police officers. The demonstration wrapped up peacefully in a piazza.

Tourists arriving at the main station encountered almost as many journalists as stewards on hand to politely guide anyone unaware of the new requirements through the process of downloading the QR code to pay the fee.

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Arianna Cecilia, a tourist from Rome visiting Venice for the first time, said she thought it was “strange” to have to pay to enter a city in her native country, and be funneled through separate entrance ways for tourists. She and her boyfriend were staying in nearby Treviso, and so downloaded the QR code as required. But she was still caught off-guard while soaking in her first view ever of Venice’s canals by the sight of the entrance signs and her boyfriend telling her to get out the ticket.

On the other side of the entrance ways, workers in yellow vests carried out random checks at the train station. Transgressors face fines of 50 to 300 euros ($73 to $440), but officials said “common sense” was being applied for the launch.

The requirement applies only for people arriving between 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. Outside of those hours, access is free and unchecked.

Venice has long suffered under the pressure of overtourism, and officials hope that the pilot project can help provide more exact figures to better manage the phenomenon.

The city can track the number of hotel visitors, which last year numbered 4.6 million and is down 16 per cent from pre-pandemic highs. But the number of day visitors, which make up the majority of the crowds in Venice, could only be estimated until recently.

A Smart Control Room set up during the pandemic has been tracking arrivals from cellphone data, roughly confirming pre-pandemic estimates of 25 million to 30 million arrivals a year, said Michele Zuin, the city’s top economic official. That includes both day-trippers and overnight guests.

But Zuin said the data is incomplete.

“It’s clear we will get more reliable data from the contribution” being paid by day-trippers, he said.

Venturini said the city is strained when the number of day-trippers reaches 30,000 to 40,000. On peak days, local police set up one-way traffic for pedestrians to keep the crowds moving.

Residents opposing the day-tripper tax insist that the solution to Venice’s woes are to boost the resident population and the services they need, limiting short-term rentals to make available more housing and attract families back from the mainland.

Last year, Venice passed a telling milestone when the number of tourist beds exceeded for the first time the number of official residents, which is now below 50,000 in the historic center with its picturesque canals.

“Putting a ticket to enter a city will not decrease not even by one single unit the number of visitors that are coming,” said Tommaso Cacciari, an activist who organized a protest Thursday against the measure.

“You pay a ticket to take the metro, to go to a museum, an amusement park. You don’t pay a ticket to enter a city. This is the last symbolic step of a project of an idea of this municipal administration to kick residents out of Venice,” he said.

Venice Mayor Luigi Brugnaro declared the launch day, coinciding with an Italian holiday, a success, registering 15,700 paying visitors, 50 per cent more than anticipated.

More than 97,000 others had downloaded a QR code denoting an exemption, including to work in Venice or as a resident of the Veneto region. Hotels in Venice, including in mainland districts like Marghera or Mestre, provided a QR code for visitors to attest to their stay, which includes a hotel tax — accounting for 40,000 of those.

Venturini, the tourist official, said that interest in Venice’s pilot program has been keen from other places suffering from mass tourism, including other Italian art cities, and municipalities abroad such as Barcelona, Spain, and Amsterdam.

But Marina Rodino, who has lived in Venice for 30 years, doesn’t see the fee as the cure-all. Neighbouring apartments in her residential building near the famed Rialto Bridge once inhabited by families are now short-term apartment rentals.

The corner butcher shop closed. Yet she noted that the new entrance fee requirement will still allow young people to flood the city in the evening for the traditional aperitivo, which can grow rowdy.

She was passing out mock European Union passports for “Venice, Open City,” underlining the irony of the new system, and challenging its legal standing with citations from the Italian Constitution guaranteeing its citizens the right to “move or reside freely in any part of the national territory.”

“This is not a natural oasis. This is not a museum. It is not Pompeii. It is a city, where we need to fight so the houses are inhabited by families, and stores reopen. That is what would counter this wild tourism,” Rodino said.

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