8 Things to Do on A Day Trip To Venice

Part 3 of 4 of my Italian travels. The gondolas, the live music, the masquerade masks, the lively crowd, and more gelato. It is a tough call to decide which Italian city is the most beautiful. Venice is known for its romantic elements, hence why oh so many marriage proposals occur in this city of romance.

What To Do on A Day Trip in Venice

1.Go on a Gondola Ride

Gondola rides are rather expensive. Are they worth it? I think so. I mean you are in Venice, where else are going to get a chance to ride in a gondola? When I went the price was 100 euros for half an hour, but you can easily pair up with other people and share the cost. Now, it may not be as romantic if you are going with your significant other, but it is a tough call you will have to make.

2. Visit Basilica di San Marco

Basilica di San Marco was breathtaking. Dare I say I loved it more than St. Peters? The liens are usually insane, so I would suggest goign there early in morning and lining up before the crowds come. Dress appropriately so that you are not denied entrance. Both the exterior and interior view of the Basilica are breathtaking. Basilica di San Marco is said to date back to the 9th century which was later rebuilt in 932 due to a fire, but its beauty is still so captivating that it withstands time.The basilica is dressed in mosaics with beautiful 24-carat gold leaf fused onto the back of each glass which creates an illuminating light like no other. I would also recommend you visit the external terrace of the Basilica if you want to see the breathtaking view of the port and a bird’s eye view of the square. Note you will need to buy the ticket to access San Marco’s Museum in order to access the terrace.

3. See a Bird’s-eye View of Venice

Originally built between 888 and 912, the Campanile or also known as the Bell Tower is the city’s tallest building and the best spot to see the whole city from a bird’s eye view. Capturing the sights of Venice like the lagoon, Venetian buildings and the Dolomites (Mountain range in Italy) in the far distance. Unfortunately, my camera died when we went up, but you will just have to go to see the view for yourself.

4. Have Coffee at Piazza San Marco

What I loved the most about Venice was Piazza San Marco. The cafes are all lined up side by side with such an authentic feel of the Venetian aristocracy. You can enjoy your coffee by watching the crowd go by, or admire Basilica di San Marco. There are also tons of pigeons which you should be cautious of, but definitely the best photo op ever. Sometimes, not so friendly those feathered entities, but do it for the gram!lol.

5. Eat Gelato

Italy is all about the gelato tastings. I tried two different gelato shops during my day trip to Venice. If you want some options of places to gelato places to visit while in Venice here are some options:

• Grom
• Gelateria Nico
• Gelato di Natura
• La Boutique del Gelato
• Gelateria Alaska
• Gelateria Ca’ D’oro
• Gelateria il Doge
• Vizio Virtu

6. Take a Tour of a Murano Factory

Venice is known for Murano. What is Murano you ask? Murano glass is a special type of glass that is made on the Venetian island of Murano. Murano glass is known as the fancy, vibrant than life glassware. At first you think ok, a tour of how to make murano glassware, but honestly it is worth your time. I loved watching the glassblowing demonstration, and how the artist took matter and turned it into something. The entire process was mind blowing. It was out of this world seeing the glass morph into a vibrant curated art piece.

7. Snap a Picture at the Bridge of Sighs

Because that is the only thing you can do when it comes to the Bridge of Sighs. The bridge is a nice photo op, but the fact that there is no accessibility to the bridge is rather annoying. Those who enjoyed it appreciated the details of the architecture and unique placement of the bridge, saying it was a nice photo op, especially while the gondolas passed underneath it. Just looking at the bridge is underwhelming, so it doesn’t really offer much to tourists. Some guided tours allow access t to the bridge so you may consider doing that if it is on your list of sites to see up close.

8. Palazzo Ducale

The view from the Palazzo Ducale is so serene. Facing the Venetian Lagoon it honestly feels like you are floating on water. Which may as well happen in a few decades since Venice is known as the sinking city. This Palace is interesting because so much history comes with it from hidden doors to secret passageways, there is more to this palace than just intriguing architecture. I would recommend purchasing/booking your tickets in advance as you will be facing an hour long line before you can get in.

Happy Travels!

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