Venice, with its winding canals and stunning architecture, is a treasure trove of beauty and history. I got engaged in Venice, so the city will always have my heart. While the city itself offers endless exploration, venturing out on a day trip can reveal even more of Italy’s captivating charm. Here are some of the best day trips from Venice that you won’t want to miss.
1. Murano, Burano, and Torcello
Murano
Getting There: Take a vaporetto (water bus) from Venice, which takes about 20 minutes.
Tour Option: Murano & Burano Islands Guided Small-Group Tour by Private Boat
Why Visit: Famous for its centuries-old glassmaking tradition.
Highlights:
- Glassmaking Demonstrations: Watch skilled artisans create beautiful glass pieces.
- Glass Museum (Museo del Vetro): Learn about the history and techniques of glassmaking.
- Shopping: Browse shops for unique Murano glass souvenirs.
Burano
Getting There: A vaporetto from Venice to Burano takes about 45 minutes.
Tour Option: See Murano Tour Option
Why Visit: Known for its brightly colored houses and intricate lacework.
Highlights:
- Colorful Houses: Stroll through streets lined with vividly painted homes.
- Lace Museum (Museo del Merletto): Discover the island’s lace-making heritage.
- Seafood Restaurants: Enjoy fresh seafood dishes at local eateries.
Torcello
Getting There: Accessible via vaporetto, usually in combination with trips to Murano and Burano.
Tour Option: Private Excursion by Typical Venetian Motorboat to Murano, Burano and Torcello
Why Visit: One of the oldest settlements in the Venetian Lagoon with a rich history.
Highlights:
- Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta: Admire stunning Byzantine mosaics.
- Ponte del Diavolo (Devil’s Bridge): A picturesque, ancient stone bridge.
- Quiet Atmosphere: Enjoy the peaceful, rural setting.
2. Verona
Getting There: Take a direct train from Venice to Verona, which takes about 1.5 hours.
Tour Option: Verona Guided Tour from Venice by train
Why Visit: The setting of Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet,” Verona is a city of romance and history.
Highlights:
- Juliet’s House (Casa di Giulietta): Visit the iconic balcony and leave a love note.
- Roman Arena: Explore one of the best-preserved ancient Roman amphitheaters.
- Piazza delle Erbe: Wander through this bustling market square surrounded by historic buildings.
3. Padua
Getting There: A short 30-minute train ride from Venice will get you to Padua.
Tour Option: Small Group Guided Tour of Padua from Venice
Why Visit: Home to one of the oldest universities in the world and stunning medieval architecture.
Highlights:
- Scrovegni Chapel: See Giotto’s remarkable frescoes.
- University of Padua: Visit the historic university and its Botanical Garden (Orto Botanico).
- Prato della Valle: Relax in one of Europe’s largest squares, featuring statues and fountains.
4. Vicenza
Getting There: Vicenza is about an hour away by train from Venice.
Tour Option: From Venice: Vicenza Private Tour
Why Visit: Renowned for its Palladian architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Highlights:
- Teatro Olimpico: Marvel at Andrea Palladio’s Renaissance theater.
- Palladian Basilica: Explore this architectural masterpiece in Piazza dei Signori.
- Villa La Rotonda: Visit the famous Palladian villa just outside the city center.
5. The Dolomites
Getting There: Renting a car is the best way to reach the Dolomites, about a two-hour drive from Venice.
Tour Option: Dolomites Private Tour from Venice
Why Visit: For breathtaking mountain scenery and outdoor adventures.
Highlights:
- Cable Car Rides: Take a ride for panoramic views of the mountains.
- Hiking Trails: Explore scenic trails suitable for all levels.
- Alpine Villages: Visit charming villages like Cortina d’Ampezzo.
6. Treviso
Getting There: Treviso is just a 30-minute train ride from Venice.
Why Visit: Often called “Little Venice,” Treviso is a picturesque town with its own canals and rich history.
Highlights:
- Canals: Walk along the serene waterways.
- Cathedral of San Pietro: Visit the impressive church and its beautiful frescoes.
- Prosecco Tasting: Sample Prosecco in the region where it’s produced.
7. Trieste
Getting There: Trieste is about two hours away by train from Venice.
Why Visit: A coastal city with a unique blend of Italian, Austrian, and Slavic influences.
Highlights:
- Miramare Castle: Explore the 19th-century castle with stunning sea views.
- Piazza Unità d’Italia: Relax in one of Europe’s largest sea-facing squares.
- Historic Cafés: Enjoy a coffee in one of the city’s traditional cafés, like Caffè San Marco.
8. Ferrara
Getting There: Ferrara is reachable in about 1.5 hours by train from Venice.
Why Visit: A Renaissance gem with well-preserved architecture and a rich cultural scene.
Highlights:
- Este Castle: Tour the medieval fortress and its art collections.
- Palazzo dei Diamanti: Admire the diamond-shaped façade and visit the art gallery inside.
- Cycling: Rent a bike and explore the city’s extensive network of cycling paths.
9. Chioggia
Getting There: A one-hour drive or a scenic ferry ride from Venice will get you to Chioggia.
Why Visit: Often referred to as “Little Venice,” this charming fishing town offers a quieter alternative to Venice.
Highlights:
- Narrow Streets: Wander through the picturesque, narrow streets.
- Fish Market: Experience the bustling local fish market.
- Beaches: Relax on the nearby sandy beaches.
Tips for Day Tripping from Venice
Plan Ahead
- Check train and ferry schedules in advance to make the most of your day.
Start Early
- Begin your day trip early to maximize your time exploring each destination.
Pack Light
- Carry a small backpack with essentials like water, snacks, and a camera.
Comfortable Footwear
- Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll likely be doing a lot of walking.
Local Cuisine
- Don’t miss out on trying the local dishes and wines at each destination.
Guided Tours
- Consider joining a guided tour for a more in-depth understanding of the history and culture of each place. It’s also nice to have transportation taken care of.
Conclusion
Venice is a gateway to some of Italy’s most enchanting and diverse destinations. Whether you’re drawn to historic cities, charming villages, or breathtaking landscapes, these day trips from Venice offer a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. So, pack your bags, plan your itinerary, and get ready to discover the hidden gems around the Venice!
If you’re looking for help planning your Venice Itinerary, check out my post on How To See Venice in One Day HERE.
