What to do in Venice in 2 days: our hotspot guide

Two days in Venice are enough to be wrapped in the city’s timeless charm and discover its most authentic soul. There’s no need to rush to see it all: Venice should be savored slowly, wandering through quiet calli and glimpsing unexpected wonders at every turn.

We’ve created an itinerary that blends iconic landmarks and hidden corners, perfect for travelers seeking genuine experiences beyond the well-trodden paths.

Day 1: From the Wonders of San Marco to the Secrets of Dorsoduro
Start your journey in the historic heart of Venice. Begin the day in majestic St. Mark’s Square, marveling at the Basilica with its golden mosaics and climbing the Campanile for unforgettable views over the Lagoon. Nearby, the Doge’s Palace welcomes you with Gothic elegance and leads you, through the Bridge of Sighs, to the ancient Venetian prisons.

After soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of the center, take a vaporetto along the Grand Canal. From this unique perspective, the water becomes a catwalk lined with noble palaces and bustling markets. Stop at Rialto to explore its historic market and enjoy a cicchetto in one of the traditional bacari.

In the afternoon, head to Dorsoduro, a district where art and tranquility meet. The Peggy Guggenheim Collection, overlooking the Grand Canal, houses 20th-century masterpieces in an intimate setting. Here, among art galleries and hidden gardens, the most authentic Venice reveals itself away from the crowds.

Day 2: Lagoon Islands and a Sunset in Malamocco
Your second day brings the magic of the Lagoon islands. In Murano, watch master glassmakers at work—an ancient craft that still enchants. Continue to Burano, where brightly colored houses are reflected in the canals, and treat yourself to the island’s famous bussolai cookies. Lastly, visit Torcello, the most peaceful and spiritual island, where the Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta tells over a thousand years of history through its Byzantine mosaics.

Returning to Venice, get lost in the calli of Castello, a less touristy district where secret gardens and majestic churches let you feel like a true Venetian.

As the day draws to a close, venture further to discover Malamocco, the ancient village on the Lido. Here, far from the city’s bustle, Relais Alberti’s Corte degli Agrumi awaits: a secret garden where you can breathe the sea breeze, listen to the silence of ancient stones, and toast to your journey with a glass of chilled prosecco.

Venice in 2 Days: An Invitation to Slow Down
Venice isn’t a city to tick off a list—it’s a place to live and savor. Two days are enough to fall in love if you explore the Lagoon with curious eyes and an open heart. Relais Alberti is here to welcome you on this journey, offering charm and refuge in one of the island’s most precious corners.