What to do in Venice in 1 day: our hotspot guide

Venice is a waking dream—a mosaic of narrow streets, little squares, and shimmering canals that hold centuries of art, history, and tradition. While one day might feel too short to explore it all, with the right suggestions you can enjoy an intense and authentic experience. From the city’s most iconic landmarks to its hidden corners, here’s our selection of must-see spots to discover the true soul of the Lagoon.

Start the Day at St. Mark’s Square

There’s no better way to begin than with a morning stroll through St. Mark’s Square, when the soft light illuminates the Basilica and the Campanile. Step inside St. Mark’s Basilica to admire its golden mosaics telling stories from centuries past, then climb the bell tower for breathtaking views over terracotta rooftops and the sparkling waters of the Lagoon.

A Dive into Art at the Gallerie dell’Accademia

Continue towards the Gallerie dell’Accademia, home to an extraordinary collection of Venetian masterpieces from Titian to Tintoretto. For lovers of modern art, the nearby Peggy Guggenheim Collection is a must—an intimate space overlooking the Grand Canal, filled with works by Picasso, Pollock, and Kandinsky.

Lunch with a View: Bacari and Cicchetti

At lunchtime, indulge in authentic flavors at the bacari, Venice’s traditional taverns. Order a glass of local wine (known as “un’ombra” here) and sample cicchetti—small bites ranging from sarde in saor (sweet-and-sour sardines) to creamy baccalà mantecato croquettes.

Afternoon Among Islands and Hidden Corners

In the afternoon, take a vaporetto to explore the Lagoon islands. Murano will captivate you with its glass-blowing workshops, while Burano’s brightly colored houses and delicate lacework reveal a quieter, poetic Venice. If you prefer to stay in the city, wander through lesser-known sestieri like Dorsoduro or Cannaregio, where authentic Venice unfolds in secret gardens, artisan shops, and silent squares.

Sunset at the Rialto Bridge

Head back to the city center to enjoy one of Venice’s most enchanting sunsets from the Rialto Bridge. Here, the Grand Canal becomes a living painting: gondolas gliding silently, historic palaces glowing with golden reflections, and the lively buzz of markets and nearby shops.

A Special Ending: Dinner in Malamocco

To end your day on an exclusive note, step away from the crowds and return to Malamocco, the ancient village on the Lido of Venice. In the secret garden of Relais Alberti, an intimate dinner awaits you, surrounded by the scents of aromatic herbs and the salty sea breeze. A peaceful haven where time seems to stand still and the Lagoon reveals its most authentic face.

Venice in a day is just a taste, but with this guide, you can capture its essence: the art inhabiting every corner, the cuisine telling stories of sea and land, and that subtle magic found only here. For those who wish to experience the city with calm and authenticity, Relais Alberti is the perfect base to explore the Lagoon at your own pace.