Top 8 One Day Trips From Venice
If you’re looking for day trips from Venice, there are plenty of options just a short ride away. Explore other historic cities, landscapes, and villages nearby.
Venice is a great starting point. The options are endless, from the islands in the lagoon to cities like Verona and Padua. Let’s explore 8 one day trips from Venice options that will make your vacation even more unforgettable.
Day Trips from Venice:
Murano, Burano, and Torcello
How to Get There?
Murano, Burano, and Torcello are all located in the Venetian Lagoon. The best way to visit them is by vaporetto, Venice’s water bus. You can catch the vaporetto from several stops around the city, including Fondamente Nove and San Zaccaria. The ride to Murano takes about 20 minutes; Burano is another 30 minutes from Murano. Torcello is just a short ride from Burano.
What to See in Murano?
Murano is famous for its glass-making tradition. When you visit, be sure to check out a glass-blowing demonstration. You can watch the artisans craft beautiful glass items right before you. Don’t miss the Museo del Vetro, a museum dedicated to glass-making history. Murano is also home to lovely canals, colourful houses, and quiet streets perfect for a stroll.
What to See During Your Day Trip from Venice in Burano?
Burano is known for its brightly painted houses. This island feels like a fairy tale, with every building painted differently. It’s a great spot for taking photos. Burano is also famous for its lace-making tradition. To learn more about this craft, you can visit the Museo del Merletto, a lace museum.
What to See in Torcello?
Torcello is much quieter than Murano and Burano. It’s one of the oldest settlements in the lagoon and has a peaceful atmosphere. The main attraction here is the Santa Maria Assunta Cathedral. It dates back to the 7th century. Inside, you can see beautiful Byzantine mosaics. Don’t forget to visit the Devil’s Bridge, a small, ancient bridge without railings.
Day Trips from Venice:
Verona
How to Get There?
Verona is one of the top day trips from Venice, just an hour away by train. Trains run frequently from Venice Santa Lucia station to Verona Porta Nuova, and once you arrive, most of the city’s attractions are within walking distance.
Juliet’s Balcony
Juliet’s Balcony is one of the most famous spots in Verona. According to tradition, this was the home of Juliet Capulet from Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. While the story may be fictional, it’s still a romantic place to visit. You can even leave a letter for Juliet on the wall.
Visit Arena di Verona on Your Day Trip from Venice
The Arena di Verona is a massive Roman amphitheatre dating back to the 1st century. It’s still used for concerts and opera performances. Even if there isn’t a show during your visit, exploring this ancient structure is worth exploring. It’s one of the best-preserved Roman arenas in Italy.
Piazza delle Erbe
The Piazza delle Erbe is the heart of Verona’s historic centre. This lively square is home to a daily market where you can shop for souvenirs, fresh fruit, and local products. Beautiful buildings and medieval towers surround the square. Don’t forget to visit the Torre dei Lamberti for a great city view.
Stroll through Castelvecchio Bridge and Visit Museum on Your Day from Venice
The Castelvecchio Bridge, or Ponte Scaligero, is a medieval bridge that spans the Adige River. It connects to the Castelvecchio Museum, a fortress that now houses a collection of art and artefacts. Walking across the bridge offers fantastic views of Verona.
Check out this article if you’re planning to spend 1 day in Venice.
Day Trips from Venice:
Padua (Padova)
How to Get There?
Padua is only 30 minutes from Venice by train. Trains run regularly, and it’s an easy day trip. Once you arrive, you can either walk or use the city’s tram to get around.
Scrovegni Chapel
The Scrovegni Chapel is a must-see on day trips from Venice to Padua, the city’s most famous attraction. Home to a series of frescoes by Giotto, one of the most important artists of the Middle Ages, the chapel’s frescoes depict scenes from the life of Christ and are considered a masterpiece of Western art. Book tickets in advance, as entry is limited to small groups.
Visit Basilica of St. Anthony on Your Day Trip from Venice
The Basilica of St. Anthony is a major pilgrimage site. It’s one of the largest churches in Italy and is known for its beautiful architecture. Inside, you’ll find the tomb of St. Anthony of Padua and stunning sculptures and frescoes. The basilica also has a peaceful abbey and gardens.
Prato della Valle
The Prato della Valle is one of the largest squares in Europe. Statues of famous figures surround it, and a central island with a fountain surrounds it. This is a great spot for a leisurely walk or a picnic. On Saturdays, there’s a large market where you can browse for local goods.
University of Padua
Founded in 1222, the University of Padua is one of the oldest universities in the world. It’s famous for its anatomical theatre, where students once watched dissections to learn about the human body. The university also has a beautiful botanical garden, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Day Trips from Venice:
Vicenza
How to Get There?
Vicenza is about 45 minutes from Venice by train. This city is known for its architecture, especially the works of Andrea Palladio, a Renaissance architect whose designs have influenced buildings worldwide.
Teatro Olimpico – Highlight of Your Day Trip from Venice
The Teatro Olimpico in Vicenza is a highlight of day trips from Venice and one of the oldest indoor theatres in the world. Designed by Palladio and completed in 1585, it’s famous for its stunning stage, which creates an illusion of a cityscape stretching into the distance. This optical illusion is a must-see for architecture lovers.
Piazza dei Signori
The Piazza dei Signori is the main square in Vicenza. Impressive buildings surround it, including the Basilica Palladiana, another masterpiece by Palladio. The Loggia del Capitaniato is another notable building in the square. It’s a great place to sit at a cafe and enjoy the view.
Villa La Rotonda – A Must-See During Your Day Trip from Venice
Outside Vicenza is Villa La Rotonda, one of Palladio’s most famous villas. The symmetrical design and classical elements make it a stunning example of Renaissance architecture. You can tour the villa and its gardens, which offer beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
Corso Palladio
Walking along Corso Palladio, the main street in Vicenza is like walking through an open-air museum. The street is lined with Renaissance palaces, shops, and cafes. It’s a great place to experience the city’s rich history and vibrant atmosphere.
If you are planning to stay a few days in the city, here are some tips on how to spend 2 days in Venice.
Day Trips from Venice:
Prosecco Wine Region
How to Get There?
The Prosecco wine region is about 1-1.5 hours from Venice by train or car. The main towns to visit are Conegliano and Valdobbiadene. They’re both located in the heart of the Prosecco DOCG area.
Enjoy Wine Tasting During Your Trip from Venice
No trip to the Prosecco region is complete without a wine tasting. Many wineries in the area offer tours and tastings where you can learn about the wine-making process. You’ll get to sample different types of Prosecco, including the famous Prosecco Superiore.
Prosecco Road
The Prosecco Road (Strada del Prosecco) is a perfect choice for day trips from Venice. It offers a scenic route through the rolling hills of the Prosecco region. You’ll pass vineyards, charming villages, and stunning landscapes as you drive, making it a great way to explore the area at your own pace.
Conegliano and Valdobbiadene
Conegliano and Valdobbiadene are the two main towns in the Prosecco region. The Conegliano is home to Italy’s oldest wine school, and you can visit the Castello di Conegliano for beautiful views of the surrounding vineyards. In Valdobbiadene, don’t miss the chance to visit local wineries and enjoy a glass of Prosecco in one of the town’s cosy wine bars.
Savour Local Cuisine on Your Day Trip from Venice
The Prosecco region is also known for its delicious food. Pair your wine with local dishes like risotto, cheese, and prosciutto. Many wineries and restaurants in the area offer food and wine pairings, allowing you to enjoy the best of Veneto’s cuisine.
Day Trips from Venice:
Lake Garda: Italy’s Largest Lake
How to Get There?
Lake Garda is about 1.5-2 hours from Venice by train. The most convenient town to visit is Peschiera del Garda. It’s located on the southern shore of the lake. From there, you can explore other parts of the lake by boat or bus.
Visit Sirmione During Your Day Trip from Venice
Sirmione is one of the most popular towns on Lake Garda. It’s known for its medieval Scaligero Castle, which sits on the water. You can climb to the top of the castle for panoramic views of the lake. Sirmione is also home to the Grotte di Catullo, the ruins of a Roman villa that offer a glimpse into the area’s ancient history.
Gardaland
Visiting Gardaland is a must if you’re planning day trips from Venice with kids. As one of Italy’s largest theme parks, it offers rides, shows, and attractions for all ages. Even adults will love the thrilling roller coasters and the park’s beautiful setting by the lake.
Enjoy Boat Tours on Your Day Trip from Venice
One of the best ways to explore Lake Garda is by boat. You can take a ferry or book a private boat tour to visit different towns around the lake. This is a relaxing way to see the stunning scenery and discover hidden gems along the shoreline.
Relaxing by the Water
Lake Garda is a great place to relax. There are several beaches where you can swim, sunbathe, or simply enjoy the view. Many cafes and restaurants are on the water, offering the perfect spot for a leisurely meal.
Check out this article if you’re planning to stay 3 days in Venice.
Day Trips from Venice:
Dolomites
How to Get There?
The Dolomites are about 2-3 hours from Venice by car. You can join a guided tour if you don’t want to drive. The Dolomites are known for their mountain scenery, making them a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Cortina d’Ampezzo
Cortina d’Ampezzo is one of the most famous ski resorts in Italy. It’s a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding in winter, but it’s also worth visiting in summer. Beautiful hiking trails surround the town, and the views of the mountains are breathtaking.
Explore Tre Cime di Lavaredo During Your Day Trip from Venice
The Tre Cime di Lavaredo is one of the most iconic mountain ranges in the Dolomites. Several hiking trails offer stunning views of these three peaks. The hikes vary in difficulty, so there’s something for everyone, whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a scenic walk.
Lake Misurina and Lake Braies
The Dolomites are a fantastic option for day trips from Venice, offering some of Italy’s most stunning lakes. Lake Misurina and Lake Braies are two of the most popular, both with crystal-clear waters surrounded by towering mountains. They’re perfect for photography; you can take a boat ride or enjoy a peaceful walk along the shore.
Winter Sports
If you visit the Dolomites in winter, there are plenty of opportunities for winter sports. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, you can try ice skating, snowshoeing, and sledging. The Dolomites are a winter wonderland, and the mountain views are especially beautiful when covered in snow.
Day Trips from Venice:
Trieste
How to Get There?
Trieste is about two hours from Venice by train. This city has a unique blend of Italian, Austrian, and Slovenian influences, which can be seen in its architecture, food, and culture.
Piazza Unità d’Italia
The Piazza Unità d’Italia is one of the largest seafront squares in Europe. Grand buildings surround it, including the Palazzo del Municipio and the Palazzo del Lloyd Triestino. The square opens up to the Adriatic Sea, offering beautiful views. It’s a great place to stroll and soak in the atmosphere.
Miramare Castle
The Miramare Castle is a romantic castle on the coast just outside Trieste. It was built in the 19th century for Archduke Ferdinand Maximilian of Austria and his wife Charlotte of Belgium. Beautiful gardens surround the castle, and the views of the Adriatic Sea are stunning. You can tour the inside of the castle, which is filled with original furnishings and art.
Explore Grotta Gigante During Your Day Trip from Venice
The Grotta Gigante is a must-see for nature lovers on day trips from Venice. As one of the largest tourist caves in the world, it features massive chambers with impressive stalactites and stalagmites. Guided tours take you deep into the cave, offering insights into its fascinating formation and history.
Coffee Culture
Trieste is known for its coffee culture. The city has a long history of coffee trade, and there are many historic cafes where you can enjoy a cup of coffee. Some of the most famous cafes include Caffè San Marco and Caffè degli Specchi. Be sure to try a traditional Triestino coffee served with whipped cream.
Venice is a stunning city, but it’s also the perfect base for exploring the surrounding region. From the lagoon islands to the Dolomites, there’s so much to see and do within a short distance. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or culture, these day trips from Venice offer something for everyone.
If you’re planning to stay several days in the city, check out this article about Top tourist attractions in Venice you can’t miss.
Practical Tips for Day Trips from Venice
Additional Tips
Explore Beyond the Main Attractions:
Hidden Gems: Don’t hesitate to wander off the beaten path. Many smaller towns have beautiful views and charming streets worth exploring.
Local Markets: If time allows, visit local markets to taste everyday life and fresh local produce.
Enjoy the Local Cuisine
Try Local Specialties: Each destination has its own culinary delights. Don’t miss out on trying local dishes, wines, and desserts.
Lunch Timing: Lunch is typically served in Italy from 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM. Plan your meals accordingly, especially in smaller towns.
Pack Smart:
Comfortable Shoes: Wear comfortable walking shoes, as you’ll likely do a lot of walking.
Weather Considerations: Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately. If rain is expected, bring a light jacket or an umbrella.
Essentials: Pack a small backpack with water, snacks, and a map or travel guide.
Be Mindful of Time:
Return Times: When taking day trips from Venice, check train schedules for your return, especially in the evening. Missing the last train can be inconvenient!
Local Events: Check for local events or festivals that might affect travel plans or offer unique experiences.
More to Explore
Top Tourist Attractions in Venice You Can’t Miss
2 Days in Venice: Must-See Attractions and Experiences
