one day trips from venice

12 incredible day trips from Venice

May 15, 2023 • 16 min read

Escape the clamor of Venice on a day trip © Andrea Comi / Getty Images

Venice is one of the world’s greatest cities – a floating work of art, an open-air museum, and a place that everyone wants to visit at least once in their lifetime.

But what makes it great also makes it crowded...and then some. This fragile city is the poster child for overtourism and not only is it unpleasant to be part of that, but a whistle-stop tour of the sights makes you part of the problem. Our advice? Stay longer. A week is a decent amount of time to get a feel for the real Venice, beyond the crowds, and to take a couple of day trips beyond the canals.

The Italian railway system is excellent and in this part of the country, there are regular high-speed trains that can whisk you to another world in less than half an hour. Whether you’re looking for somewhere close by or fancy a day out in another region or even in the mountains, here are some of the best places to go.

1. See world-changing art in Padova

Travel time: 26 minutes by train

If it wasn’t so close to Venice, Padova (or Padua) would be one of northern Italy’s most feted cities. As it is, not many tourists make it to the place that changed art history – yet it’s one of the easiest day trips from Venice by train. Here, in the Cappella degli Scrovegni – the chapel of the Scrovegni banking family, which now sits in a little park, just 10 minutes’ walk from the train station – Giotto spent two years from 1303 to 1305, frescoing it from top to bottom. What he produced shattered medieval artistic conventions, introducing perspective and humanizing his figures, instead of keeping them stiff and sculptural. If his Nativity and Flight to Egypt scenes are familiar, that’s because they make regular appearances on Christmas cards around the globe.

Other sights include the colossal Basilica di Santa'Antonio – where the remains of St. Anthony of Padua are kept – and Prato della Valle , a huge square (said to be Europe’s largest) where grand statues of local luminaries stand guard over a moated island (join the locals and buy a pizza at nearby Pizzeria Orsucci, going strong since 1922, and eat it in the square). Don’t miss Piazza delle Erbe, where there’s still a busy food market, both inside and out. Looking for souvenirs? La Bottega del Pane is a pantry of exceptional local foods.

How to get to Padova from Venice:  The easiest way to get there is by train. Fast trains can take as little as 26 minutes, and slower (cheaper) regional trains can take double that time.

2. Pay homage to Romeo and Juliet in Verona

Travel time: 72 minutes by train

In fair Verona , where we set our scene, little has changed since the 16th century, when Shakespeare set Romeo and Juliet here. The Piazza delle Erbe still hosts a lively market beneath its frescoed palazzos; the Adige river still loops around the elegant center; and the Giardino Giusti’s impeccably laid out garden hasn’t undergone anything more radical than a trim in 500 years. Juliet may not have existed in real life but her spirit lives on in Verona, where " Juliet’s House " – complete with balcony, of course – lures visitors, and a bronze statue is said to bring love to those who rub its breast (nobody could accuse Italy of being politically correct).

Verona may be known as a romantic getaway, but its real attraction is its Roman amphitheater, the Verona Arena , constructed from rosy-pink stone from a local quarry. Back in the day it put on gladiator battles; today, it’s rather more sophisticated, hosting an annual opera festival that’s one of Italy’s iconic summer events.

How to get to Verona from Venice:  The train is the fastest and easiest way to get there. There are fast trains (the Milan-Venice route stops at Verona) or slower, cheaper regional ones. The journey ranges between 72 minutes and nearly two and a half hours.

3. See bombastic Renaissance architecture in Vicenza

Travel time: 44 minutes by train

Just as Padova is overshadowed by Venice, Vicenza is the often overlooked sibling of nearby Verona. It wasn’t like this 500 years ago, when the local dignitaries were building palazzos, each grander than the last along what was the Roman decumanus (main drag) and is now called Corso Palladio, after Renaissance starchitect and adopted vicentino , Andrea Palladio.

Today, you can still walk along the street, just as they did – the only thing that’s changed is that it’s now pedestrianized and the “most elegant street in Europe,” according to 19th-century historian Cesare Cantù. The jewel in Vicenza’s crown, though, is the Teatro Olimpico – a jaw-dropping theatre by Palladio, its interior crafted entirely from wood, stucco and plaster to aid the acoustics. Its trompe l’oeil stage set is the oldest in the world. If you have a car, it’s worth driving around the countryside, which is littered with sumptuous villas also designed by Palladio – La Rotonda is one of the finest.

How to get to Vicenza from Venice:  Fast trains from Venice are quick (from 44 minutes) and easy, or it’s a 50-minute drive.

4. Hit the water at Lake Garda

Travel time: 93 minutes by train

Yes, you can do a day trip from Venice to Lake Garda – in fact, Italy’s largest lake makes for a fun day trip on public transport. Take the train to Desenzano , from where the (water) world is your oyster. Ferries zigzag across the lake – top stops include Lazise, a picture-perfect village on the crystal clear water; Gargnano, where you’ll find Limonaia La Malora, one of the only remaining lemon groves which Garda used to be famous for; and Limone sul Garda, where there’s a footpath cantilevered over the water on the outskirts of town.

At Sirmione, a peninsula thrusting out into the lake from the southern shore, there are the remains of a Roman villa, the Grotte di Catullo , while on a hill above Gardone Riviera is the Vittoriale , the former home of beloved Italian writer Gabriele D’Annunzio. The views from the rambling grounds (which include a warship dug into the hill) are spectacular. It’s a great family day trip but you may want to extend that into an overnight or two – it’s the perfect destination to combine with Venice.

How to get to Lake Garda from Venice:  To do it all by public transport, you can take the train to Desenzano, from where ferries depart for towns and villages around the lake. Otherwise, you can drive from Venice, rent a car at Desenzano or, if you’re sticking to the east side of the lake, Verona.

5. See a Venice without tourists at Chioggia

Travel time: 75 minutes by ferry and bus

Perched at the southern end of the Venice lagoon, Chioggia is close to Venice on a map, but getting there by road is tortuous. That’s why you should visit during summer, when one of Europe’s most beautiful public transport routes is running: the 11, which takes the form of a bus all the way along the Lido island, then transfers to a ferry across to Pellestrina, continues the length of this toothpick-thin island separating the lagoon from the Adriatic, before dropping you off for a final ferry crossing to Chioggia.

Often described as a mini Venice, Chioggia certainly shares a lot with La Serenissima – a settlement clumped over islands, linked by bridges – but where Venice has an elegant feel of decay, Chioggia is a living, working town. Instead of tourist gondolas, you’ll see fishing boats lined along the canals, and there are even cars driving along the streets. Don’t miss the church of San Domenico, where a painting of St. Paul by Renaissance artist Carpaccio sits in the dark, alongside votive paintings by fishermen. It’s a brilliantly atmospheric yet cheap day trip from Venice.

How to get to Chioggia from Venice:  Take a vaporetto from the city to the Lido, where the number 11 bus route whisks you eastwards, transfers to a ferry to Pellestrina, continues to the end of the island, and then drops you off at the ferry for Chioggia. Note that this route is only active in summer. Otherwise, it’s about an hour’s drive (but on frustratingly slow roads) south of Venice.

6. Soak up the cross-cultural history of Trieste

Travel time: One hour 50 minutes by car

It takes a while to get to Trieste – just over two hours by train, or a quicker (but stressful) drive – but it’s absolutely worth it. Reward an early start with a capo in b – a micro-sized cappuccino, served in an espresso glass. This used to be part of the Austro-Hungarian empire, so the coffee scene is more Vienna than Venice, here. Instead of downing an espresso at the bar, people sit down with a newspaper to savour their break. Caffe degli Specchi is the place to go – it sits on Piazza Unità d’Italia , one of Italy’s most spectacular squares, with frothy Habsburg-era buildings on three sides, and the sparkling Gulf of Trieste on the fourth.

Wander the old city – home to Roman ruins and the 15 th -century Castello di San Giusto , which has spectacular views over the water – then head northwest from the center to Miramare , a fairytale castle of gleaming white stone, cantilevered over the water. On the way back into town, take a dip; the sidewalk doubles as a sun terrace, where the Triestini lay their towels, sunbathe, and hop in the calm waters of the Gulf to cool off.

How to get to Trieste from Venice:  It’s quickest to drive, at around 1 hour 50 minutes, but the road’s a busy autostrada  with tolls. Better to take the slower but scenic train, which weaves around the lagoons at the very northern tip of the Adriatic Sea.

7. Travel back in time to mysterious Ferrara

Travel time: About one hour by train

Often mist-swirled and always mysterious, Ferrara is a time machine back to the Renaissance period. The Castello Estense , the ominous brick castle of the Este dynasty, dominates the city – today you can go for a boat ride in the moat that once separated the family from their citizens and mooch through the castle which, 500-odd years ago, was one of Italy’s cultural capitals. Fancy a taste of their lifestyle? Much of Ferrara’s traditional food comes from the Este family’s Renaissance cookbook – try pasticcio, a sweet-pastry pie filled with macaroni cheese, meat ragù and bechamel sauce, and salama da sugo, a spicy kind of sausage, served with mash and said to be Lucrezia Borgia’s favorite food. Both are acquired tastes, but a fascinating glimpse into how they ate hundreds of years ago.

Ferrara’s Palazzo dei Diamanti , an exhibition space in a 15 th -century palace whose façade is studded with diamond-shaped stones, reopened in 2023 after two years of closure. It was originally damaged in the 2012 earthquake, along with much of the city. Check out its website for what’s on during your visit – its exhibitions are usually top notch and well worth the trip.

Until the Second World War, Ferrara had a renowned Jewish community; this was the setting for The Garden of the Finzi-Continis , by Giorgio Bassani, and you can still wander the narrow streets of what used to be the Jewish quarter. Learn the history of the community – both here and more widely in Italy – at the exceptional MEIS , or National Museum of Italian Judaism and the Shoah.

How to get to Ferrara from Venice:  It’s easiest to go by rail. High-speed trains take just over an hour, while regional ones are around 90 minutes. Otherwise, it’s an easy 75-minute drive along the autostrada, but it’s a toll road and city center parking is expensive.

8. Eat some of Italy’s best food in Bologna

Where to go from Venice by train? Further than you think. By high-speed rail, it’s easy to turn Italy’s culinary capital into a daytrip. Step off the Frecciarossa (“red arrow” train) into La Rossa (“the red” – one of Bologna’s nicknames, along with “the learned” and “the fat”), for a day of shameless indulgence.

Wander the streets of the Quadrilatero  (home to food stalls since the medieval period), take a pasta-making class (we like the offerings at Salumeria Bruno e Franco ), and end with an aperitivo on Piazza Maggiore, Bologna’s main square, where a hulking naked statue-fountain of Neptune dominates one side, and the Basilica di San Petronio , a barn-like church, dominates the other. Any of the restaurants will do you proud – must-try dishes are tagliatelle al ragù, tortellini in brodo (tiny pasta pockets filled with a meaty, cheesy stuffing and swimming in broth), and cotoletta alla petroniana, or alla bolognese – a veal cutlet swathed in prosciutto, layered with cheese, then baked to oozing perfection.

How to get to Bologna from Venice:  It’s easiest by train – high-speed Frecciarossa trains can whisk you there in just over an hour and a half. It’s roughly the same by car, though you should add autostrada tolls and the road is quite monotonous.

9. Climb into the Dolomites at Cortina d’Ampezzo

Travel time: Two hours by car

Within a two-hour drive from Venice, you can be in the heart of the Dolomites . Head due north, and within an hour you’ll be winding up through mountain passes towards Pieve di Cadore, the birthplace of Renaissance painter Titian (his birthplace is now a museum, and there are paintings by his artist family in the local church). From there, fork west, hugging the mountainsides, to Cortina d’Ampezzo .

This is one of Italy’s chi-chiest ski resorts, but there’s plenty to do year round, from hiking to eating (try the Michelin-starred SanBrite , whose owners source all their ingredients locally). This is part of the Ladin community, an ancient population of the mountains that have their own language and traditions. Learn about the Ladins, and the Regole – essentially a collection of centuries-standing families who "govern" the town – at the Ethnographic Museum, housed in an old sawmill.

How to get to Cortina d’Ampezzo from Venice:  This is definitely one to drive. The two hours by car (or 80 minutes from Venice Marco Polo airport) changes to a minimum of five and a half by public transport and you’ll have to change at least twice.

10. Wallow in volcanic mud in the Euganean Hills

Travel time: 45 minutes by car or train

The wider region around Venice, Veneto , tends to be pretty flat except where the landscape rears up towards the Dolomites. This is one of the exceptions – a group of cone-like volcanic hills, 81 of them to be precise, rearing up from the plains south of Padova.

Of course, their volcanic origin should give you a hint that Italy’s famous thermal spas will be nearby. The small, neighboring towns of Montegrotto and Abano are home to various springs and spas that have been going since Roman times. Today, along with other nearby towns Galzignano, Battaglia and Teolo, they’re said to form the oldest, and largest, thermal spa in Europe, with 240 thermal pools between them. One of our favorites is the Abano Ritz Hotel Terme – family- and female-owned for three generations. The thermal mud they use in balneotherapy treatments comes from right beside the hotel and the pools in their 6,000-square-meter waterpark stay a constant 33 degrees (91.4F), thanks to the thermal waters that spent 25 years and 100km (62 miles) underground before gushing out here.

Don’t spend all your time wallowing, though – the whole area is designated the Euganean Hills Regional Park, and there are trails for hiking, biking and horse-riding, as well as breathtaking views from behind the wheel if you prefer a road trip. Visit one of the sprawling Renaissance country villas on offer (try Villa Barbarigo , known as the hills’ answer to Versailles, near Galzignano). Can’t go to Italy without seeing some Roman remains? You’ll find bits of 2000-year-old spas at Montegrotto and Abano.

How to get to the Euganean Hills from Venice:  Trains take between 37 minutes and an hour to reach the Terme Euganee-Abano-Montegrotto station, which serves the spa towns. If you want to explore the park, though, you’ll need a car – it’s about a 45-minute drive from Venice.

11. Wind back the centuries at Aquileia

Travel time: 80 minutes by car

Across the border in Friuli Venezia Giulia and en route to Trieste is this fascinating time capsule, where the history of the northern Adriatic is layered like a lasagne. Now a Unesco World Heritage site, this was one of the richest cities of the early Roman Empire before it was destroyed by the Huns in the fifth century CE. There’s not a lot from that era visible, since most of it lies unexcavated below fields, although the Roman river port is fascinating in its detail.

What you’re really going for is the later history – the basilica , dating back to the fourth century and rebuilt in the medieval period after an earthquake. The original mosaic floor was saved from damage and today it’s an astonishing, colorful carpet of early Christian artwork, with astonishingly vivid depictions of Bible stories like the Good Shepherd and Jonah and the whale, in between cameos of rich Roman locals, and lagoon wildlife.

How to get to Aquileia from Venice:  The easiest way to get there is by car; it’s about an hour and 20 minutes’ drive from Venice, and about two thirds of the way to Trieste. By public transport you’ll need to take a train to Cervignano-Aquileia-Grado and then swap to a bus – the journey takes just over two hours.

12. Visit Venice’s inland empire at Treviso

Travel time: 31 minutes by train

These days, Treviso is best known for its airport, home to budget airlines galore, but there’s nothing low-end about the town itself. Elegant, petite and pretty, Treviso is still a place for residents rather than tourists, and a walk around its calm centro storico is like one big exhale if you’ve come from crowded Venice. Once part of the Stato da Tera, Venice’s historic inland empire, it’s curiously similar to La Serenissima – all porticoes, art-filled churches and elegant palazzos – only without canals taking center stage (though there are a few – the Canale dei Buranelli, sweeping through the center, is the prettiest).

Don’t miss the Fontana delle Tette , a fountain in the shape of a naked woman which used to spout wine from her breasts – white from one, and red from the other – every time a new mayor was sworn in. The original has been moved to the Palazzo dei Trecento, the 13th-century castle-like building dominating the Piazza dei Signori but there’s a replica in situ just off Calmaggiore, the main street dating back to Roman times. The church of San Nicolò is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture, which you won’t find much in Venice.

How to get to Treviso from Venice: Trains run every half hour or so, and take 30-40 minutes to Treviso Centrale. Otherwise, it’s a simple, if not particularly scenic, 40-minute drive from Piazzale Roma.

This article was first published March 2019 and updated May 2023

Explore related stories

Feb 25, 2021 • 8 min read

Milan is the portal to a whole region of culture, fine food and even finer scenery. From lakes to monasteries, here are the best day trips from Milan.

Apr 5, 2024 • 5 min read

Mar 17, 2024 • 7 min read

Nov 20, 2023 • 7 min read

Nov 19, 2023 • 11 min read

Nov 16, 2023 • 7 min read

Oct 27, 2023 • 6 min read

Oct 24, 2023 • 7 min read

Oct 19, 2023 • 8 min read

Aug 30, 2023 • 6 min read

Home » Travel Guides » Italy » 15 Best Day Trips From Venice

15 Best Day Trips From Venice

Venice is a uniquely charming city, set on the canals and waterways of northern Italy.

It has a well-deserved place on many people’s Europe bucket list, for its gondolas and piazzas, its world-renowned food and intricate artisanal masks.

The city has plenty to keep you occupied, as even simply wandering its labyrinthine streets leads to new discoveries each day, but for the restless traveller, there is also plenty to explore beyond the water, in Italy as a whole.

If you find yourself getting sick of its shady streets, there are definitely options for you.

Here are 15 of the best day trips to take while on your trip to Venice.

1. Lake Garda

From one water-bound attraction to another, Lake Garda is without doubt Italy’s most famous, as well as largest, lake.

Surrounded by lemon trees, magnolia, cypresses and olive trees, Lake Garda exudes a Mediterranean vibe, and is just as relaxing as it sounds.

Enjoy a boat ride across the lake, or stroll along the shore, before exploring the lakeside town of Sirmione or the medieval jewel of Lazise.

If you have time, visit the nearby producers of olive oil, and learn about their traditional methods of production.

2. Murano, Torcello and Burano islands

Venice’s own islands of Murano, Torcello and Burano deserve a separate day trip to fully appreciate and explore what they have to offer.

Glass blowing, lace production and embroidery are just a few of the attractions of these picturesque islands, with each in turn having their own highlight.

Visit the glass factory in Murano and watch a display of great artistry from the glass blowers, who will craft molten glass into dainty ornaments right before your eyes.

Pay a visit to Torcello, the oldest of the inhabited islands, and finish up in Burano, whose lace making is renowned.

Near to Lake Garda is fair Verona, made famous by Shakespeare but more than maintaining its popularity through sheer charm and beauty.

Verona was of course the setting for the most popular of Shakespeare’s plays, Romeo and Juliet, and a highlight of any visit is spotting the balcony from which Juliet wondered ‘wherefore art thou Romeo?’

Head into the city’s historical centre to check out its many picturesque piazzas and the famed Mazzanti houses.

Then take a walk along the river or stop by the Basilica or Verona’s Duomo to marvel at its impressive architecture.

By train, a day trip to Padua is a fantastic option from Venice.

Padua has intrigue as well as all the hallmarks of Italian towns: beautiful architecture, vast open piazzas, art and excellent cuisine.

One of the most interesting highlights of a Padua trip is wandering through its former ghetto, which also houses the only Synagogue still in use in Padua today.

The Cappella Degli Scrovegni is another point of interest, which is home to many exquisite 14th century works of art, including those of Giotto.

5. Prosecco Region

One of Italy’s most famous exports, a Prosecco tour is a must-do on a trip to Italy.

Only around an hour’s drive from Venice, the scenery on the journey there is jaw-dropping, and of course the reward on arrival is a taste of those renowned bubbles.

The hills of the Prosecco valley are a great location to learn about the whole process of wine-making, from picking the perfect grapes, to pressing them, fermenting them, and finally bottling the finished products.

You’ll get the chance to wander round well-stocked cellars and perhaps choose the perfect tipple to pair with your lunch.

6. Florence

Thanks to the advent of high speed trains, a trip to Florence from Venice is well within the reach of a day tripper.

Just two hours away from Venice, Florence holds great treasures for tourists.

From the glorious art hosted by the world-renowned Uffizi Gallery and the city at large, to the towering Duomo offering panoramic views of the landscape, there will be plenty to keep you entertained.

If marvelling at Renaissance paintings and sculpture isn’t really your thing, you can always while away the hours wandering through Florence’s attractive streets, from the Ponte Vecchio where the high-class Medici family trod centuries ago, to the Piazza della Liberta.

7. Venice Lido

Venice’s Lido necessitates its own day trip in order to soak up the requisite number of rays, and it’s definitely a relaxing way to spend a day out.

It’s a ferry ride away, but well worth it for the glory of sun, sea and sand.

If seaside lounging, reading, sunbathing, swimming and sipping mojitos isn’t quite enough entertainment for you, a diverting way to spend the afternoon might be to explore by bike.

Cycle along the lagoon, spot the myriad tiny islands in its centre, and make sure to check out the massive, impressive fortress of Murazzi, built in the 18th century.

The medieval town of Siena is a Tuscan gem, and at just over three hours’ drive from Venice it’s not too far a stretch to visit for the day.

Home to the famed Palio Horse Race, Siena offers more than just the main square, Piazza del Campo: it has a 12th century cathedral and myriad narrow cobbled streets among which you can happily lose yourself.

Siena’s gothic architecture lends a sense of grandeur to even the dreariest days.

If nothing else, divert yourself in Siena with some delicious gelato, for which Italy is world-renowned, and sit in the piazza to watch the world go by.

Yet another historical town famed for its architecture, Vicenza’s main draw is its buildings designed by celebrated 16th century architect Andrea Palladio.

The Teatro Olimpico is the key attraction of the town, as Palladio’s last work, but the Villa La Rotunda and the Basilica Palladiana also provide excellent examples of Palladian design.

The town’s shady parks and narrow streets lend it a relaxed air, and to top it off the views from the the Santuario di Monte Berico are breathtaking, and can be reached by a covered walkway.

10. Amarone

Nestled in between Lake Garda and Verona, the Valpolicella Valley produces excellent wines including Amarone and Recioto.

The drive along narrow winding roads to reach this destination is a real treat, passing through scenery replete with villas, olive groves and of course wineries.

Take advice from a well-versed sommelier and cheese taster on which cheeses to pair with which drinks, and dine on a traditional lunch at a 15th century cantina; an experience in itself.

11. San Gimignano

Tuscany has a multitude of quaint towns tucked away amid its hills and scenic countryside, and one of the most beautiful is San Gimignano.

A medieval jewel, San Gimignano is a UNESCO world heritage site, with plenty to keep visitors occupied.

Known for its wine, saffron, and finely crafted pottery, you can find many ways to entertain yourself in its crooked side streets.

It’s also an arresting sight on the approach, with a skyline towering above the trees.

If one Tuscan town isn’t enough for you, you can also take the opportunity to visit nearby Siena or explore further afield in the Chianti countryside.

12. The Dolomites

Italy’s north-eastern Veneto region holds much more than just the waterways of Venice.

Even aside from its popular wineries, nature has much more to offer: namely, the Dolomites.

Explore up into the fresh air of the mountains, visiting key highlights such as Cortina, Lake Auronzo and Lake Misurina.

Keep your cameras at the ready as you wind through valleys and power up steep mountain roads, reaching a peak of over 7,700 feet.

If the weather allows, a quick trip up in the cable car from Cortina up to Faloria is well worth it, offering panoramic views from its lofty peak.

13. Ravenna

Charming Ravenna has been given the accolade of UNESCO World Heritage status for its stunning mosaics.

Ravenna was of great importance during the era in which the Byzantine and Roman empires mixed.

Perhaps the best thing about Ravenna is that it isn’t as swarmed with tourists as other Italian destinations are: it’s not on just anyone’s list.

On the way to or from Ravenna, you can also choose to visit the impressive Pomposa Abbey, build around the 10th century by members of the Benedictine community.

14. Venetian Villas at Padova and Asolo

What better way to dive deeper into your exploration of Venice itself than to visit its outskirts, and learn about a region that belonged to the Republic of Venice centuries ago? Journey along the Brenta Canal and tour your way through the villas alongside it, built by holidaying Venetians in days gone by.

Head out to Padova, with its pretty university, and find a chapel inlaid with frescoes by Giotto.

Afterwards, move on to Asolo, set back into the hills, which was the location for the court of the Queen of Cyprus and later played host to the writer Ernest Hemingway.

15. Trieste

Trieste offers something a little different from the rest of the Venice day trips on offer.

Its complex history and geographical position has lent it a huge variety of influences, and indeed it was only returned to Italian possession in 1954. From its castles to its square, its seafront to its myriad churches, there’s heaps to explore in this beautiful city.

Missed off many a travel plan, Trieste is certainly underrated given its easy elegance and abundance of cultural activities on offer – and certainly a good option for a visit from Venice.

15 Best Day Trips From Venice:

• Murano, Torcello and Burano islands
• Prosecco Region
• Venice Lido
• San Gimignano
• The Dolomites
• Venetian Villas at Padova and Asolo

Venice Revealed

13 of the Best Day Trips from Venice: Go Beyond the Lagoon

This post may contain affiliate links. This means that if you book a tour or hotel through my link I earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. By supporting me through these links, you’re helping me keep this site awesome and deliver top-notch content to you. Your support means the world to me, and I’m incredibly grateful for it!

Venice, the city of canals, is undoubtedly one of the most enchanting places on earth. 

But the magic of the Veneto region extends far beyond its capital. From the shimmering waters of Lake Garda to the medieval charm of Verona, Northern Italy is a treasure trove of diverse landscapes, rich history, and mouthwatering cuisine. 

For those who wish to delve deeper into the travel experience, embarking on a day trip from Venice opens up a world of possibilities. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or a foodie , there’s a destination waiting to captivate your senses. 

If you are staying for more than a couple of days , a day trip from Venice is a great idea. So, let’s set sail from the Grand Canal and discover the best day trips from Venice.

1 – The Lido (Venice Lagoon)

Just a short boat ride away from the bustling heart of Venice lies the serene island of Lido di Venezia . Known for its tranquil beaches and Art Nouveau architecture, Lido offers a refreshing contrast to the crowded streets and canals of Venice. This thin strip of land, stretching between the Adriatic Sea and the Venetian Lagoon, is one of the best day trips from Venice for those seeking a blend of relaxation and cultural exploration.

Attractions

Lido is famous for its sandy beaches , which provide a perfect setting for a beach day. The island is also home to the Venice Film Festival, which takes place at the historic Palazzo del Cinema every September. For architecture enthusiasts, a stroll around the island reveals a collection of beautiful villas and hotels showcasing the elegant Liberty style, Italy’s version of Art Nouveau. The Santa Maria Elisabetta area, with its charming shops and cafes, offers a glimpse into the everyday life of the locals.

Of course, the best reason to go to the Lido is to hit the beach. The most popular one, the Alberoni , is a protected nature reserve and feels very far away from the crowds of Venice. 

Getting There and Best Time to Visit

Reaching Lido from Venice is a pleasant ride on a vaporetto (water bus) that takes about half an hour. The best time to visit Lido is during the summer months when you can fully enjoy the beaches. However, if you wish to avoid the crowds, spring and early autumn are also lovely times to explore the island.

Check out the full article on the best times to visit Venice!

Food and Drink Experiences

Lido offers a variety of dining options where you can savor Venetian cuisine. Seafood is a staple here, with local restaurants serving fresh fish and shellfish dishes. For a unique food experience, try the traditional Venetian dish, sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines). Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy a glass of Prosecco, the famous sparkling wine from the Veneto region.

2 – Murano and Burano (Venice Lagoon)

A visit to Venice would not be complete without a day trip to the enchanting Venetian lagoon islands of Murano and Burano. These islands are just a short boat ride away from Venice and offer a unique glimpse into the region’s rich artisanal heritage.

Murano is world-renowned for its long-standing tradition of glassmaking. The island is dotted with glass factories, many of which offer a glass blowing demonstration. Visitors can watch master glassblowers at work, transforming molten glass into intricate sculptures, chandeliers, and jewelry. The Glass Museum (Museo del Vetro) is a must-visit, showcasing the history of glassmaking and stunning examples of Murano glass.

Read my full guide on the things to do in Murano!

Burano, on the other hand, is famous for its lace making and brightly colored houses. The island’s lace is known for its exquisite quality and intricate designs. The Lace Museum (Museo del Merletto) provides fascinating insights into the island’s lace-making history. Walking around Burano, you’ll be charmed by the vibrant houses that line its canals, each painted a different color.

Getting There, Best Time to Visit, and Local Customs

Both Murano and Burano are easily accessible day trips from Venice by vaporetto . The best time to visit these islands is in the spring and fall when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are smaller.

In terms of local customs, it’s important to respect the privacy of the residents. While the colorful houses of Burano are incredibly photogenic, remember that they are people’s homes. Always be respectful when taking photos.

Both islands offer delightful food and drink experiences. In Murano, be sure to try a ‘bussolà’, a traditional Venetian biscuit that’s perfect with a cup of coffee . In Burano, don’t miss the chance to taste the island’s famous ‘Bussolà Buranello’, a donut-shaped cookie that’s a local favorite. Seafood lovers will also enjoy the fresh fish and shellfish dishes served in the islands’ restaurants. Pair your meal with a glass of Veneto’s famous Prosecco for a truly Venetian dining experience.

3 – Sant’erasmo (Venice Lagoon)

Sant’erasmo, often referred to as the “Garden of Venice,” is a tranquil island in the Venetian Lagoon. It’s a fantastic day trip for those seeking a break from the bustling city life of Venice. The lagoon island is renowned for its lush landscapes, vineyards, and orchards, producing a variety of fruits and vegetables, including the famous Sant’erasmo artichokes. 

The island also offers beautiful views of the lagoon and Venice in the distance.

How to Get There, Best Time to Visit, and What to Do

Getting to Sant’erasmo is a pleasant ride on the vaporetto (water bus) from Venice, taking about half an hour. The best time to visit is during the spring and summer months when the island’s vegetation is in full bloom. Once there, you can rent bikes to explore the island’s natural beauty, visit the Torre Massimiliana, a historic tower now converted into a cultural center, or simply enjoy a leisurely walk along the beach.

Unique Food and Drink Experiences in Sant’erasmo

Sant’erasmo offers a unique culinary experience, thanks to its agricultural richness. Don’t miss the chance to taste the island’s renowned artichokes, usually served fresh in local dishes. The island also produces its own wine, so a wine tasting is a must-do for wine lovers.

Accommodation Options for Extended Stays

While Sant’erasmo is typically visited as a day trip from Venice, those wishing to stay longer can find accommodation options on the island. There are a few charming bed and breakfasts that offer a peaceful retreat amidst the island’s natural beauty. 

Staying on the island provides a unique opportunity to experience the everyday life of the locals in this serene part of the Venetian Lagoon.

Remember to always check the availability and book in advance, especially during the peak tourist season.

4 – Bologna (Emilia Romagna)

Bologna, the capital of the Emilia Romagna region, is a city that’s rich in history and culture. Known as “La Dotta” (The Learned), “La Grassa” (The Fat), and “La Rossa” (The Red), Bologna is a city of many faces. It’s home to the oldest university in the world, the University of Bologna, which was founded in 1088 and has a student population that brings a youthful energy to the city.

Major Sites

Bologna is renowned for its beautiful and historic architecture. The Piazza Maggiore is a sprawling square that’s surrounded by some of the city’s most important buildings, including the Basilica of San Petronio, one of the largest churches in the world, and the Palazzo del Podesta, a historic city hall. 

The city is also famous for its porticoes, covered walkways that line the streets of the city center, and the Two Towers, the Asinelli and the Garisenda, which are the city’s main symbols.

The Journey from Venice

Bologna is conveniently located and is easily accessible from Venice. The journey by train takes about an hour and a half, making it a feasible day trip. The city’s main train station is located about 20 minutes’ walk from the Piazza Maggiore, and the route will take you past many of the city’s beautiful old buildings and impressive architecture.

Bologna is often considered the culinary capital of Italy , and for good reason. The city is the birthplace of many famous Italian dishes, such as tortellini, lasagna, and ragu (the meat sauce that’s often referred to as Bolognese sauce). The city is also known for its cured meats, cheeses, and wines. 

When in Bologna, be sure to visit one of the city’s many trattorias to experience authentic Bolognese cuisine.

5 – Bassano del Grappa (Veneto)

Nestled in a picturesque setting with the foothills of the Alps rising behind it and the Brenta River flowing through it, Bassano del Grappa is a charming city that makes for a fantastic day trip from Venice. The city boasts a rich history, with architectural wonders dating back to the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. It is also famed for its production of the potent grappa spirit.

The heart of life in Bassano del Grappa is centered around Piazza Garibaldi and Piazza della Liberta. However, the city’s most popular attraction is the beautiful Ponte degli Alpini , a wooden bridge offering stunning views of the river and the city. It’s an ideal spot for capturing memorable photos.

Journey from Venice

Bassano del Grappa is located to the northwest of Venice and is easily accessible by public transport. A direct train line connects the two cities, with trains departing frequently. The journey takes approximately an hour and 15 minutes, and once you arrive, the scenic city center is just a short stroll away.

For a more immersive experience, consider taking a guided tour. This is a great way to get a feel for the lovely Venetian hill towns. With stops at Bassano del Grappa, Asolo, and Marostica included, alongside prosecco tasting at a local vineyard and a visit to a Palladian villa, it promises to be an action-packed day out.

Unique Food and Drink Experiences

Bassano del Grappa is renowned for its production of grappa , a strong Italian spirit. A visit to Bassano del Grappa would be incomplete without a tasting session. The city also offers a variety of local dishes that are worth trying, such as “bigoli”, a type of pasta often served with duck ragu.

6 – Chioggia (Veneto)

Chioggia, often referred to as “Little Venice,” is a charming town located in the Veneto region, about an hour away from Venice. This medieval town is nestled on two islands, separated by the ‘Channel Vena,’ and is known for its vibrant fishing and port activities. It’s a fantastic day trip from Venice, offering a glimpse into the everyday life of a traditional Italian fishing town.

Chioggia is a treasure trove of historical and cultural attractions. Start your visit at the arcaded Piazzetta Vigo, where you’ll find the Vigo Bridge and a high column with the Lion of Saint Mark. 

Not far from here is the 14th-century Palace of the Granaio Pubblico, a neo-gothic style building with beautiful windows with pointed arches. Behind the palace is the fish market, a Chioggia landmark, where you can find fresh fish of various species.

The town is also home to several beautiful churches, including the Church of Saint Andrew with its 12th-century bell tower, the Holy Trinity Church with important paintings by Palma il Giovane and Andrea Vicentino, and the 13th-century Church of Saint Dominic which includes a 16th-century painting by Vittore Carpaccio.

How to Get There and Best Time to Visit

Chioggia is easily accessible by public transport from Venice. You can take a direct train line from Venice’s Santa Lucia train station to Chioggia. The journey takes about an hour and a half. The best time to visit Chioggia is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the town is less crowded.

Chioggia offers a wide range of local specialities based on seafood. Try the ‘granseole’ (crab meat with olive oil, lemon, and spices), ‘bigoli in salsa’ (spaghetti with garlic sauce, oil, onion, parsley, and anchovy fillets), and the so-called ‘black cuttlefish’ (squid cut and boiled in a sauté onion, garlic, white wine, and tomatoes). Don’t miss the ‘Festival of salt-water fish’ that takes place during the first ten days of July, where you can enjoy local products and a few glasses of Merlot, Cabernet, Prosecco, and Soave.

7 – Verona (Veneto)

Verona, famously known as the setting for Shakespeare’s “ Romeo and Juliet ,” is a city in the Veneto region of Italy that is rich in history and culture. It’s a medieval city that effortlessly combines its historical past with a vibrant present. I highly recommend a Verona day trip as it is one of my favorite cities in Northern Italy. 

Verona is home to a number of significant historical sites. The Roman Arena, an enormous amphitheater that dates back to the 1st century AD, is one of the best-preserved of its kind. Despite its age, the Arena is still in use today, hosting concerts and operas. 

The city is also home to the Ponte Scaligero, a beautiful bridge that was rebuilt after World War II.

The city’s most famous site is Juliet’s House, which draws visitors from around the world who wish to stand on the famous balcony and declare their love. The city is also home to numerous beautiful churches and piazzas, including the ornate San Zeno Maggiore Church and the bustling Piazza delle Erbe.

Verona is conveniently located just over an hour’s high speed train ride west of Venice, making it an easy day trip. Trains depart frequently from Venice Santa Lucia train station, and upon arrival in Verona, you’ll find yourself just a short walk from the city’s historic center.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Verona is in the spring (April to June) or fall (September to October) when the weather is mild and the city is less crowded with tourists. The summer months can be quite hot, and the city is often crowded with tourists.

Verona is known for its excellent cuisine and wine. The city is particularly famous for its risotto, which is often served with Amarone wine, a rich red wine that is produced in the region. Other local specialties include pastissada de caval, a horse meat stew, and pandoro, a sweet bread that is traditionally served at Christmas.

8 – Lake Garda (Lombardy/Veneto)

Lake Garda, nestled between Lombardy and Veneto, is Italy’s largest lake and a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. With its clear blue waters, charming lakeside towns, and stunning mountain backdrop, Lake Garda is a perfect day trip from Venice.

Attractions and Activities

Lake Garda is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy a variety of water sports, including sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking. For those who prefer land-based activities, the surrounding area offers excellent hiking and biking trails.

There is an elevated bike path that hugs the cliffs of the river’s edge suspended above the water. The views are incredible and it is a ride you’ll never forget. 

The blue lake is dotted with picturesque towns and villages, each with its unique charm. Desenzano del Garda, at the southern tip of the lake, is known for its lively atmosphere and beautiful beaches. Sirmione, located on a peninsula extending into the lake, is famous for its medieval castle and thermal baths.

A Lake Garda day trip would not be complete without a trip to Gardaland, Italy’s largest amusement park, which offers fun for the whole family.

Getting There and Around

Lake Garda is about a two-hour drive from Venice. There are also direct train lines from Venice to Desenzano del Garda and Peschiera del Garda, both located on the southern shore of the lake. Once you’re there, you can get around by car, bus, or ferry. 

The Lake Garda ferry service is a pleasant and convenient way to explore the different towns and attractions around the lake making it one of the most fun day trips.

The best time to visit Lake Garda is from April to October when the Northern Italy weather is warm and most attractions are open. However, the lake is beautiful all year round, and a visit in the off-season allows you to enjoy its beauty without the crowds.

Food and Drink

Lake Garda is renowned for its local cuisine, which features fresh fish from the lake and delicious wines from the surrounding vineyards. Try “trout in carpione,” a traditional dish of marinated trout, or “risotto con tinca,” a risotto with tench, a fish native to the lake. 

For wine lovers, a visit to a local winery for a tasting of the region’s famous Bardolino or Lugana wines is a must.

Accommodation

If you decide to extend your stay, Lake Garda offers a wide range of accommodation options. From luxury hotels with stunning lake views to cozy bed and breakfasts in the charming lakeside towns, there’s something to suit every taste and budget. 

For a unique experience, consider staying in a historic villa or a modern eco-friendly resort.

9 – Padua (Veneto)

Padua, or Padova as it’s known in Italy, is a charming city in the Veneto region, just a short train ride away from Venice. Known for its ancient university and rich history, Padua offers a unique blend of historic sights, vibrant student life, and modern business. It’s a city where you can wander through historic streets, admire stunning architecture, and enjoy a variety of cultural experiences.

Padua’s biggest tourist attraction is the Scrovegni Chapel (Cappella degli Scrovegni), renowned for its priceless frescoes by Giotto. The Basilica of St. Anthony of Padua, known simply as Il Santo, is another must-visit site. Beyond these two, the city is filled with numerous other historic sights, art galleries, and parks.

Padua is easily accessible from Venice by train, with the journey taking only about 20-40 minutes depending on the type of train you take. The city’s train station is located just north of the town center, making it convenient for visitors to start exploring right away.

Padua can be visited year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is mild and the city is less crowded.

Padua offers a variety of unique food and drink experiences. The city is known for its traditional Italian cuisine, with a variety of restaurants and bars offering everything from quick snacks to substantial meals. For a refreshing afternoon treat, try some high-quality ice cream from Grom on Via Roma, a new Italian institution loved by Slow Food aficionados.

10 – Vicenza (Veneto)

Nestled in the heart of the Veneto region, Vicenza is a hidden gem that’s often overlooked by tourists. Known as the “City of Gold” due to its long-standing tradition in goldsmithing, Vicenza is also famous for its unique architectural style, largely influenced by the renowned 16th-century architect Andrea Palladio. This has led to the city’s designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts.

Attractions in Vicenza

Vicenza is home to numerous grand buildings designed by Palladio and his followers. The most famous among these is the Villa La Rotunda and Teatro Olimpico, Palladio’s last work, which was completed by his son and then by Vincenzo Scamozzi. This theatre, modeled on ancient Roman theatres, boasts a curved amphitheatre, graded stepped seating, and lavish ornamentation.

Another notable landmark is the Basilica Palladiana, the town’s medieval law courts, featuring an imposing facade by Palladio. The city’s heart, Piazza dei Signori, is dominated by these two striking landmarks.

For art lovers, the Gothic Church of Santa Corona houses works by Giovanni Bellini and Paolo Veronese. And for a panoramic view of the area, a walk or bus ride uphill to the Santuario di Monte Berico is highly recommended.

Journey from Venice and Best Time to Visit

Vicenza can be reached in 45 minutes from Venice by taking one of the high speed trains; a cheaper option will take just over an hour. The city’s compact town center and attractive villas in the hills a short walk away make it a fantastic day trip from Venice. The best time to visit Vicenza is during spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is most pleasant.

Keep in mind that in August many of the shops and restaurants will be closed for a week or two. 

Unique Food and Drink Experiences in Vicenza

Vicenza offers a variety of unique food and drink experiences. The city is known for its traditional dishes like “baccalà alla vicentina” (salted cod cooked with milk, onions, and anchovies) and “bigoli” (a type of thick spaghetti usually served with duck ragu). For wine lovers, a visit to a local winery to taste the regional wines like the white Soave or the red Valpolicella is a must.

11 – Trieste (Friuli Venezia Giulia)

Trieste, the capital of the Friuli Venezia Giulia region, is a charming city located in northeastern Italy and offers one of the most unique day trips from Venice. It’s a unique blend of Italian, Slovenian, and Austrian cultures due to its location near the Slovenian border and its history as part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The city is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant café culture.

Getting There

Trieste is easily accessible from Venice by train. The journey takes about 2 hours, making it a perfect day trip destination. The city’s train station, Trieste Centrale, is conveniently located near the city center.

Things to Do

Once in Trieste, there are plenty of things to see and do. Start your visit at Piazza Unità d’Italia, one of the largest sea-facing squares in Europe. From there, you can easily reach the city’s main attractions. Visit the stunning Miramare Castle, which offers breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea. Explore the Roman Theatre, a testament to Trieste’s ancient history. 

Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the iconic Trieste Cathedral and the impressive Risiera di San Sabba, a former rice-husking factory turned concentration camp during World War II is also worth visiting.

Trieste is famous for its café culture. Make sure to visit one of the city’s historic coffee houses, such as Caffè San Marco or Caffè degli Specchi, and try a traditional Triestine coffee. For lunch or dinner, enjoy local specialties like jota (a hearty bean and sauerkraut soup), gnocchi di susine (plum dumplings), or fresh seafood dishes. Pair your meal with a glass of local Friulano wine.

Trieste is a walkable city, so comfortable shoes are a must. The city is also known for its strong winds, especially the Bora wind, so be prepared with a light jacket or windbreaker. Lastly, while Italian is the official language, you’ll also hear Slovenian and German spoken, reflecting the city’s multicultural heritage.

12 – Piran (Slovenia)

Piran, a charming town located on the Adriatic coast, is a hidden gem that makes for an unforgettable day trip from Venice. This Slovenian town is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, narrow alleys, and stunning views of the sea. Its unique appeal lies in its Venetian Gothic architecture, reminiscent of Venice itself, and its picturesque setting on a narrow peninsula.

Piran is a town where history and culture are intertwined with everyday life. The town’s main square, Tartinijev Trg, is a beautiful marble-paved area that was once the inner harbor. The square is adorned with a statue of a nattily dressed man, adding to its charm.

The Cathedral of St George, with its free-standing bell tower modeled on the campanile of San Marco in Venice, offers a panoramic view of the town and the sea. The Venetian House, a red mid-15th-century Gothic structure with tracery windows and a balcony, is another eye-catching structure in Piran.

For those interested in history, the Sergej Mašera Maritime Museum and the Mediadom Pyrhani, a multimedia, interactive museum, offer insights into Piran’s maritime history and overall historical story.

Getting to Piran from Venice involves a pleasant ferry ride across the Adriatic Sea. There are several ferry services available that offer a direct line to this beautiful city in Slovenia. The journey takes about 2.5 to 3 hours, making it a feasible day trip.

The best time to visit Piran is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the town is less crowded. Summer can be quite busy, but it’s also when the town is most vibrant.

Unique Food and Drink Experiences in Piran

Piran offers a variety of unique food and drink experiences. The town is known for its seafood restaurants, where you can enjoy fresh fish caught in the Adriatic Sea. Don’t miss out on trying the local olive oil and Piran sea salt, which are considered among the best in the world.

For wine lovers, a visit to the nearby vineyards for a wine tasting session is a must. The region is known for its Refošk and Malvazija wines.

While Piran is perfect for a day trip, it also offers a range of accommodation options for those who wish to extend their stay. From luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses, there’s something for every traveler. Some popular options include the Hotel Piran, located on the seafront, and the more budget-friendly Hostel Piran. 

Staying overnight allows you to experience the town’s enchanting atmosphere after the day-trippers have left.

13 – Prosecco Region and Prosecco Road

The Prosecco region, located in the Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia regions of Italy, is a sparkling wine lover’s paradise. The area is renowned for its production of Prosecco, a bubbly white wine that has gained international acclaim. The lovely countryside is characterized by rolling hills covered in vineyards, charming villages, and historic wineries.

The Prosecco Road, or “Strada del Prosecco,” is a scenic route that winds through the heart of the Prosecco region. 

The road stretches from Conegliano to Valdobbiadene, passing through picturesque landscapes and offering stunning views of the vineyards and the surrounding countryside. Whether you travel the route by bike or car, you’ll find numerous wineries where you can stop for a tasting and learn about the traditional methods of Prosecco production.

Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply a lover of beautiful landscapes, the Prosecco region and the Prosecco Road offers one of the best day trips from Venice. The area is easily accessible from Venice, making it one of the best Venice day trips for those looking to explore beyond the city’s canals.

Read my full guide on taking a tour of Prosecco from Venice!

The Prosecco region is about an hour’s drive from Venice. You can rent a car and drive yourself, or join a guided tour that includes transportation and wine tastings. Since this is one of the day trips from Venice in which you’ll likely do the most drinking, I highly recommend booking a driver to take you around. 

If you prefer public transportation, you can take a train from Venice to Conegliano and then a local bus to Valdobbiadene.

When to Visit

The Prosecco region can be visited year-round, but the best time to go is during the grape harvest season, from late August to October. During this time, you can witness the grape picking and wine making process first-hand. The region also hosts several wine festivals throughout the year, offering a great opportunity to sample a variety of Proseccos and meet the local producers.

Wrapping It Up

Venturing beyond the enchanting canals of Venice opens up a world of captivating day trips. From the scenic islands of Murano and Burano to the historic towns of Verona and Vicenza, each destination offers its own unique charm and experiences. 

Explore the wonders of the Venice Lagoon, indulge in delicious food and wine, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Northern Italy. Whether you’re seeking natural beauty, historic sites, or culinary delights, these day trips from Venice are sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.

• Recent Posts

• The 12 Best Beaches Near Venice: A Comprehensive Guide - March 5, 2024
• [Day Trip] 12 Fun & Quirky Things to Do in Burano, Italy - March 4, 2024
• Dorsoduro Restaurants: Venice’s Best Kept Culinary Secrets - March 2, 2024

Similar Posts

The Jewish Ghetto in Venice: Why You Should Visit It

Nestled in the heart of Venice, the Jewish Ghetto holds a rich tapestry of history, culture, and resilience. The term ‘ghetto’, now used globally, traces its roots back to this very district, painting a vivid picture of a time when Jewish communities were confined to specific quarters.  Established by the decree of Doge Leonardo Loredan…

Venice to Bassano del Grappa: Day Trip to Italy’s Hidden Gem

Are you looking for a break from the bustling streets of Venice? Do you want to discover a hidden gem in Italy? If so, this article is for you. Just a short trip away from Venice, you’ll find the charming town of Bassano del Grappa. It’s a perfect day trip from Venice to Bassano del…

What to Wear in Venice Italy: Packing Tips from a Local

Welcome to Venice, the city of canals, romance, and timeless fashion. If you’re planning a trip to this enchanting Italian city, you might be wondering, “What should I wear in Venice, Italy?” Although I am not a fashion plate, I am local to Venice and have experienced it in every season so I know how…

Venice on a Budget: A Complete Guide for Thrifty Travelers

Imagine the allure of Venice, Italy – the city of canals, where gondolas glide through narrow waterways, and the air is filled with the melody of Italian serenades. Now, picture experiencing all this without breaking the bank. Yes, you read it right. Visiting Venice on a budget is not only possible but can also be…

How to Get from Treviso Airport to Venice: A Detailed Guide

Luckily, Venice is very easy to get to from both airports. If you’re flying into Venice on one of the low-cost airlines such as Ryanair and Wizz Air then you will be coming in through the Antonio Canova airport in Treviso.  You’ve got a lot of options to get to Venice from Treviso airport (TSF)….

Libreria Acqua Alta: The Most Beautiful Bookshop in the World

There’s more to Venice than just its canals and magnificent palaces. Tucked away in this city is a hidden gem that book lovers will adore – the Libreria Acqua Alta. Libreria Acqua Alta bookstore, which translates to “High Water Bookstore,” is famous for its unique approach to combating Venice’s frequent floods, known as “Acqua Alta.”…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

15 Best day trips from Venice Italy

About the author: David Angel is a British photographer, writer and historian with 30+years experience exploring Europe. His work regularly appears in global media including the BBC, Condé Nast Traveler, and The Guardian.

Venice is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, and also a great base from which you can explore the Veneto region and beyond.

I’ve always found it difficult to tear myself away, but there are many compelling day trips from Venice. Some are very easy, including popular boat tours in Venice that take you out to lagoon islands like Burano .

Some of the best day trips from Venice only involve a short train or bus ride onto the mainland and back.

Some possible trips from Venice involve more travelling time, and we offer guidance on whether or not you can accomplish your trip from Venice under your own steam.

There is also the option of booking day tours from Venice, which take you beyond the reach of public transport. It’s also worth bearing in mind the option of car rental in Venice, which again opens up more options for you.

Disclosure: This article may contain affiliate links, meaning when you make a purchase,we may earn a small commission, at no cost to you, for qualitfying purchases. For more info, see the Disclosure Policy.

Table of Contents

Easy Day Trips From Venice – Around The Venetian Lagoon

The best of the boat trips from Venice is the Murano Burano Torcello run to the three islands in the north of the lagoon – or just seeing two of them.

Burano and Murano often confuse visitors because of the similarity of their names, but they are very different.

The departure point for the Murano, Burano and Torcello vaporetto (waterbus) is the Fondamente Nove station on the northern side of the city. The number 12 boat takes you to Murano Faro, a short walk from some of the Murano glass workshops for which the island is known worldwide.

It continues northwards across the open lagoon, and the leaning tower of the main church on Burano island soon comes into view.

The boat then reaches a canal between the islands of Mazzorbo and Mazzorbetto, before turning left towards the island of Torcello.

Torcello feels very quiet and remote nowadays, but this isolated spot was actually settled long before the islands that make up the city of Venice were occupied.

It is also home to Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, which is one of the most impressive churches in Venice . It dates back to the 7 th century and has a stunning mosaic above the east apse.

Torcello was once a thriving small city, but is now an isolated outpost of Venice, with the cathedral, another church, a museum, a few houses and a restaurant spread out along a single narrow canal.

Most of the island has reverted to something akin to its pre-settlement state – nearly all of its buildings were dismantled, the materials re-used in the city of Venice. It’s worth climbing the cathedral campanile for the view over the island. Which gives you a good idea of how the islands that make up Venice once would have looked.

Our Rating: 4.5/5

See Also: Venice Off The Beaten Path – Explore 18 Hidden Gems In Venice

Most people make the day trip to Burano to see the many brightly painted houses that make up this small fishing village, the next stop on the number 12 service from Torcello.

I’ve found that Burano and Torcello make a good day trip from Venice. You need an hour or more on Torcello, and if you’re a keen photographer, at least a couple of hours on Burano. It’s quite small, but it still takes a while to walk around all the canals and backstreets. Nearly every house is a photo opportunity – I’ve never seen anywhere quite like it.

It also attracts a steady stream of visitors looking to buy Burano lace, which is painstakingly sewn by women on the island, traditionally to supplement their husbands’ fishing income.

There are plenty of cafes and restaurants around the island, making it an ideal day trip destination from Venice.

See Also: Things To Do In Burano

The Rest of the Lagoon

There are some other intriguing side trips from Venice around the various lagoon islands. One of the most off-beat short trips from Venice is on the number 13 vaporetto, which departs Fondamenta Nove, calling at Murano Faro en route to the island of Sant’ Erasmo.

Few make the trip to Sant’ Erasmo, but I recommend it, especially if you need a break from the peak season crowds in Venice. It’s where many of the vegetables you see for sale at Rialto market are grown.  You can walk or hire a bike (from the first stop, Capannone), and meander past fields of artichokes, aubergines and peppers.

One of the most unusual Venice day tours is to the island of San Lazzaro degli Armeni, which is home to a small Armenian Catholic monastery just to the west of Lido island. The guided tour is fascinating, giving great insight into Armenian history. The monastery’s library houses one of the most important collections of Armenian manuscripts in the world.

San Lazzaro degli Armeni has attracted many well-known visitors, including Lord Byron, who learned some Armenian there in 1816-17 and has a room named after him there. There is also a story that Joseph Stalin worked there as a bellringer in 1907, having fled Russia to help plot revolution in exile.

Chioggia is a lovely little fishing town at the southern end of the Venetian lagoon. It’s very different to Venice itself, but an interesting side trip from Venice. It’s a hint of how Venice might have turned out had it not become so incredibly wealthy because of its trading empire.

It’s worth the journey down from Venice just to see the last known painting by Vittore Carpaccio, St Paul, in the church of San Domenico. There are several other notable churches, including the Duomo, or cathedral, designed by Baldassare Longhena, who was also responsible for the glorious Santa Maria della Salute at the entrance to the Grand Canal back in Venice.

Chioggia also has a great fish market and seafood restaurants, and the old town makes for a pleasant stroll for an hour or so. There is also a beach at Sottomarina (sometimes referred to as Marina di Chioggia).

Our Rating: 3.5/5 for the destination, 5/5 for the longer journey

Getting there: the 80E bus from Piazzale Roma takes an hour to reach Chioggia.

However, the longer route via the beach island of Lido is far more interesting. The number 11 bus runs the length of Lido island, boards a ferry to Pellestrina island, which has wonderful views of the lagoon and 18 th century sea walls. Another bus then continues the length of that to a ferry, which then takes you past mussel fishermen’s houses on stilts. One of the best places to catch a sunset in Venice , and one of the true hidden gems of Venice.

The Brenta Canal

After Venice’s maritime empire and overseas influence started to dwindle, the Venetian wealthy turned their attention inland, to the adjacent Veneto region. Many of the aristocratic families built palaces along the scenic Brenta Canal (also known as the Riviera del Brenta) which links Venice with Padua, and several boats offer cruises along this beautiful waterway.

Brenta Canal cruises usually start at 0900, with several stops at Venetian villas en route, finishing at 1700 or 1800. Some services finish at the vast Villa Pisani at Strà, with an onward bus to Padua, while others dock in Padua. You then make your own way back from Padua by bus or train.  Full day cruises are currently priced at €99, with half day cruises (to Oriago) €55.

Our Rating: 4/5

Day Trips From Venice By Train

Venezia Santa Lucia is the departure point for trains from Venice to mainland Italy. There are possible day trips by train to the north, east, south and west, and here are some of the best options.

The Venice to Padua day trip is one of the best you could possibly do.   I originally stayed there because Venice was booked out for a festival and I didn’t mind the ‘commute’. If Padua wasn’t so close to Venice it would be a bigger city break destination in its own right. It reminds me of Bologna in that it’s a captivating medieval city with a large young student population.

There are enough things to do in Padua to tempt you for two or three days, but as you’re only there for one you should book yourself a place on a tour of the Cappella Scrovegni. The entire interior of this small chapel was painted by Giotto da Bondone for a wealthy patron seeking to pay and pave his way to the afterlife.

It took him over two years – 1303 to 1305 –  to paint all the walls and ceilings, decorating them with a series of Biblical scenes. The most astonishing thing about his paintings is how far ahead of their time they were. They were completed over 150 years before the Renaissance, yet this is the era they most closely resemble. You need to book your tickets at least a day in advance, and arrive prior to your time slot.

The heart of the city is around the two Palazzo della Ragione and the two squares either side, the Piazza della Frutta and Piazza delle Erbe, where bustling markets are held on weekdays. It’s a short walk from here to the Duomo, or Cathedral, and the highlight of a visit here is the adjoining Baptistery, with an incredible ceiling by Giusto de’ Menabuoi.

Padua’s other essential sight is the Basilica of St Anthony of Padua, known locally as Il Santo. St Anthony was a disciple of St Francis of Assisi who was canonised only three years after his death. The basilica was built to venerate him, and his devotional cult is very strong nearly 800 years after he died. It’s one of the most opulent and fascinating churches I’ve ever visited.

Our rating: 5 / 5

Getting there: The train from Venice to Padua takes between 30 and 50 minutes, depending on whether you catch the Eurostar (quickest), Inter-Regionale or regionale (slowest) service.

The Venice to Vicenza day trip is another you can easily do by train.

You will already have had some introduction to Vicenza’s most famous son, Andrea Palladio, in Venice. His sublime church of San Giorgio Maggiore is one of the most iconic sights on Venice, and the nearby churches of Il Redentore and Zitelle are also must-sees. If any of these have captivated you, Vicenza is where you should go to see much more of Palladio’s work.

As with Padua, you’ll probably struggle to see everything in a day. However, most of the best things to see in Vicenza, including several Palladio sights, are within a short distance of each other in the city centre, including the Basilica Palladiana, Palazzo Thiene and Teatro Olimpico, a wonderful re-creation of a Roman theatre.

Palladio is also well-known for his beautifully proportioned Roman-inspired villas, and there are two within easy reach on the southern outskirts of Vicenza. The Villa Rotonda and nearby Villa Malmarani ai Nani are around 400 metres’ walk from the number 8 bus stop.

There are also wonderful views over the city from the church at Monte Berico. A day trip to Vicenza is feasible, but it may be worth considering a Vicenza tour as an option if you want to cover all of the main sights in the time available.

Our rating: 5/5

Getting there: The train from Venice to Vicenza takes between 45 minutes (for fast intercity services) and 1 hour 15 minutes (Regionale).

Verona is one of the most popular destinations for a day trip from Venice.   It’s one of the most beautiful cities in Italy, and the only reservation I have for recommending a day trip from Venice to Verona is that you cannot hope to do it justice in a day. It deserves at least two days, possibly even more.

There are so many things to do in Verona. The most popular sight is the Casa di Giulietta, the setting for Shakespeare’s tale of doomed love, Romeo and Juliet. The house, which at one time belonged to the Dal Cappello family (similar to Shakespeare’s ‘ Capulet’) dates from the 14 th century, but the balcony was added much later. Needless to say, it is one of the most popular selfie spots in Italy.

Verona has so many other things to see. The Roman Arena, the best-preserved in Italy after the Colosseum in Rome, is still used as a venue for opera and concerts.

As time on a day trip to Verona day trip from Venice is limited, I suggest seeking out some of the highlights of the medieval city. The Ponte Pietro is a stunning red-brick fortified bridge over the Adige River, and the Duomo and San Zeno Maggiore church are two of the finest Romanesque buildings in northern Italy.

Verona is also a beautiful city to walk and savour the street life, with Piazza delle Erbe and Piazza dei Signori two of the prime spots to take a break and watch the world go by for a while.

Getting there – There are frequent trains from Venice to Verona Porta Nuova, and to make the most of the day you should spend the extra money on the faster Regionale Veloce or Frecciarossa trains which take a little over an hour, rather than the slow regionale which take twice the time for less than half the price.

Trieste is the last outpost of Italy, tucked away in the north-east corner of Italy, next to the border with Slovenia, with Croatia also close by.

It’s a fascinating city which doesn’t really feel like Italy. It was part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire for over 500 years, and its main seaport until 1918 and the end of the First World War. It still feels like a crossroads city to me, with as much Slavic and Germanic influence as Italian.

It may not have many of the conventional sights of some of the other destinations we describe, but I’d still recommend a day trip from Venice to Trieste to uncover some of its many layers of history.

Trieste is also the (unofficial) coffee capital of Italy, which dates back to its time as a free port under the Habsburgs, when coffee was shipped there from all over the world. It’s home to the famous Illy coffee brand, and they have set up a University of Coffee where you can take a day course or even enrol on a degree.

I sought out the Caffe San Marco while I was there last, partly to sample the outstanding espresso, but also to see where James Joyce drank his coffee for ten years.

The most popular tourist sight in Trieste is actually just outside the city – the Castello Miramare sits in a gorgeous location a few miles across the bay.

There are also plenty of other surprises and things to do in Trieste on your day trip. It’s only a short walk from the seafront up the hill to the Roman amphitheatre and the lovely Cathedral at the summit.

In this last corner of Italy, you can also visit the one Nazi concentration camp to be set up on Italian soil. The Risiera di San Sabba started out as a rice mill, but was put to sinister use by the Nazis, who murdered at least 5,000 people there, and deported many more to the death camps to the north, including Auschwitz .

Getting there: The regular train from Venice to Trieste takes two hours.

Bassano del Grappa and Marostica

Bassano del Grappa is a pretty town in the foothills of the Dolomites two hours north of Venice.It’s best known as the home of grappa, a strong spirit that’s usually grape-flavoured, which comes in many varieties.

There are, of course, plenty of places to try or buy grappa in Bassano, including a number of osterie, or bars, and the Poli Museo della Grappa. The most impressive sight in the town is the covered wooden Ponte Vecchio, also known as the Ponte degli Alpini, which spans the river Brenta.

Bassano’s nearest neighbour is the picturesque town of Marostica, which is known for a game of human chess played out on the town square every two years. The next perormances will be held 7 th to 9 th September 2018.

The tradition goes back to the 15 th century, when two noblemen sought the hand of Lionora, daughter of the local lord. It makes for a stunning spectacle, played out with the Castello the imposing backdrop.

Our Rating: 4 / 5

Getting there: The regular train from Venice to Bassano del Grappa takes two hours, and there are regular buses from Bassano to Marostica which is only 4 km away.

Best Day Tours from Venice

Some destinations can be visited in a day from Venice, but if you’re relying on public transport you’re not going to see much, which is where taking private day tours from Venice becomes an option. We recommend this for the following destinations.

Wine Tours from Venice

Sampling a glass or two of prosecco is almost as essential a Venetian experience as a boat ride down the Grand Canal. And if you’re in Venice for a few days and want to know (and try) more, you can take guided tours from Venice to ‘Prosecco country’ to the north of nearby Treviso.

The main Prosecco Superiore growing area is actually quite small, between the towns of Valdobbiadene and Conegliano. It’s steep, hilly country, and the vineyards make a wonderful sight, especially towards harvest time. There are also some beautiful villages along the route, including Guia and Santo Stefano.

The tours take you through this fine scenic countryside, and you usually visit two or three wineries, learning all about the cultivation of the vines and tasting several vintages at each.

Our Rating: 4.5 / 5

Lake Garda is the largest of the Italian Lakes, and one of the most beautiful, with some beautiful resort towns around its shores. It’s around 50 km north to south, and around 10 km across most of the way.

You can reach Lake Garda from Venice by train easily enough: trains regularly stop at Peschiera and Desenzano. You can then count on getting to a hub like Sirmione by bus, or up either shore, but you’re not going to get long wherever you choose to go.

So if you want to make the most of your day trip to Lake Garda you’ll get more out of it by taking a day tour.

Our Rating: 4.5

The Dolomites

If you climb one of Venice’s campaniles on a clear day, you can see the peaks of the mighty Dolomites to the north.  No wonder that a Dolomites day trip from Venice sounds appealing.

However, the Dolomites are out of reach of public transport from Venice.

You can organise car hire from Venice, and with your own wheels you can get to the mountains in around two hours. This gives you the freedom to explore some of the scenic Dolomites drives for a few hours before heading back to Venice.

Alternatively, if you book a Venice Dolomites day trip with a private tour company, a typical itinerary takes you to lovely Lake Santa Caterina, the iconic Tre Cime di Lavaredo peaks and gives you some time in the ski resort of Cortina d’Ampezzo.

Our Rating: 5/5

Ravenna was once the most powerful city in what was left of the Roman Empire in western Europe, and was the seat of power in the 5 th and 6 th centuries. The legacy of its century-long heyday is some of the most precious mosaic art on the planet, all dating from this period.

I had studied Byzantine art at university, and even that didn’t prepare me for seeing the Ravenna mosaics in person: they are simply astounding. The main sites are the Basilica of San Vitale, the Neonian and Arian Baptisteries, the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia, and the Basilicas of Sant’Apollinare Nuovo and Sant’Apollinare in Classe.

It’s situated close to the Emilia-Romagna coast to the south of Venice and the Po delta. You can get from Venice to Ravenna by train and back in a day, but the chances are it’ll take you three hours or more each way. Then there are the six main sites to visit – five are within walking distance of each other, while the other one is a short bus or train ride away.

Put simply, a Venice to Ravenna day trip on public transport is going to be long and tiring. A Ravenna day tour makes more sense, getting you there and back in much less time.

L ong Distance Day Trips from Venice

The day trip from Venice to Florence can be done, but it’s not one I’ve seen anyone try, and I wouldn’t do it myself as it deserves a lot more time than a day trip is going to offer.  Venice is too far away. It makes more sense to take a Florence day trip from somewhere closer, like Bologna or one of the Tuscan cities.

That said, if Venice is the closest you’re ever likely to get to Florence and this is the one chance you’re going to get to see it, by all means go for it.

It doesn’t really make much sense to book a tour of Florence from Venice, as it’s easier to make your own way there by train (which can take as little as two hours). but it would be well worth your while joining a Florence tour while you’re there, especially if you want to get an overview of the city in a short space of time.

Our rating: 5/5 for the destination, but 3/5 for a day trip all the way from Venice.

Getting there : by regular train from Venezia Santa Lucia to Florence Santa Maria Novella (Firenze SMN)

See Also: Photographing Florence – Capturing One Of the Most Beautiful Cities In Italy

The day trip from Venice to Milan can also be done, but as with Florence, it’s not one I’d contemplate myself. Again, Milan deserves more time than a day, but as some of the main sights are close to each other you’d get to experience some of the best things to do in Milan more quickly than you would Florence.

A day in Milan would give you enough time to see the magnificent Duomo, the opulent La Scala Opera House and Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper in nearby Santa Maria delle Grazie church. One of the most beautiful old delis in Italy, Peck, is also very close to the Duomo.

As with Florence, if your time is limited it makes sense to catch one of the high-speed trains from Venice, and to cover as much ground as possible, book yourself on a Milan tour.

Our rating: 4.5/5 for the destination, and 3/5 for a day trip all the way from Venice

Getting there: Trains run regularly from Venezia Santa Lucia to Milano Centrale.

D ay Trips Out of Venice That Can’t Be Done

While travelling in Italy in the late 1990s I met a number of people who talked about taking day trips from Venice to Croatia. I looked into the possibility of it back then and it wasn’t workable. The situation remains the same over twenty years on.

It’s easy enough to find a day trip to Venice from Croatia, as several operators in Pula, Porec and Rovinj run daily boats there in season (usually April to September). They depart in the morning, returning in the early evening.

And therein lies the problem if you want to embark on a day trip to Croatia from Venice. The only departures available are in the evening, so you really need to spend one, or more likely two, nights at your Croatian destination. There is much more of a market for day trippers to Venice from Croatia than there is the other way around. The same applies to Slovenia.

Some visitors do indeed contemplate day trips and tours from Venice to Rome. I wouldn’t. The quickest train one way takes well over three hours, so that’s around seven hours just on the train.

Rome is an amazing city packed with hundreds of things to see and do. The best advice I can give is not to do so on a long, exhausting day trip from Venice.

Best Day Trips from Venice Map

To help you plan your travels I created this map in google maps showing the locations of each of the day trips from Venice in this article. Click on the map and it will take you to google maps where you can download this map and get directions.

Day Trips From Venice – Final Words

I hope that my day trips from Venice article has helped you plan your Italy itinerary.

The Veneto region is extraordinarily rich in places to visit. It has always been rather overshadowed by Venice, meaning that time-poor travellers don’t have the opportunity to explore it more.

At the very least, I’d look at a half-day trip to the north of the Venetian lagoon. The island of Torcello is serene, and there are enough things to do in Burano – and houses to photograph – to warrant a few hours of your time.

If you’re going to make one trip back to the mainland, make it to Padua . It’s one of the most underrated cities in Europe with two World Heritage Sites, including some of the finest medieval fresco cycles in the world.

And there’s so much more. Vicenza, Verona, Lake Garda in one direction. Ferrara, Bologna , Ravenna in the other. And Tuscany? You can do a day trip to Florence if you’re really pushed for time. But I’d suggest that’s another trip entirely – check out my Best Places to Stay In Tuscany article for a few ideas.

David Angel is a British photographer, writer and historian. He is a European travel expert with over 30 years’ experience exploring Europe. He has a degree in History from Manchester University, and his work is regularly featured in global media including the BBC, Condé Nast Traveler, The Guardian, The Times, and The Sunday Times.  David is fluent in French and Welsh, and can also converse in Italian, German, Portuguese, Spanish, Czech and Polish.

• 2024 TRAVEL UPDATE
• Work with us
• Beyond Bologna
• Regions of Italy
• Travel books
• Best group tours
• Itineraries
• Accommodation guide
• Italian phrases for travel
• Rocket Italian review: 2024 update
• Ultimate Italy Travel Planner
• City Planners
• Essential Guides
• Italy themed gift ideas
• Trip planning services

Best Day Trips From Venice: Historic Cities, Wineries, and More

This article may contain compensated links. See our full disclosure here

Venice is a beautiful city of romantic intrigue, with its meandering canals, picturesque bridges, and iconic landmarks. It’s one of the most popular cities to visit in Italy, but what if you want to explore beyond the canals?

You’re in luck, because Venice is an excellent base for many adventures in northern Italy. You can discover all the charm Italy offers, from Prosecco wineries to the charming towns.

This article will take you through the best day trips from Venice and cover some key travel information to help you plan your time.

So, when you’re not enjoying all the hidden gems in Venice , you’ll want to take on one of these unforgettable day trips.

Article contents

Popular Day Trips From Venice, Italy

Venice couldn’t be better placed for fun day trips to the Veneto region . Some unforgettable sites are a stone’s throw away, like the Prosecco wineries and Lake Garda .

With this array of fantastic day trip ideas to the glorious regions of the country, it’s not easy picking your ideal excursion. So, to make your life easier, here are some of the best Venice, Italy, day trips you can book to enhance your trip. 

Prosecco Valley Wine Tasting Tour

If you want stunning views, delicious food, and a relaxing experience, this winery tour of Prosecco Valley is for you. You’ll visit two wineries during this tour, namely Conegliano and Valdobbiadene, where you’ll be able to taste the famous DOCG Italian white wines.

The tour guide — a local wine expert — will give you the ins and outs of all the subtle flavors each wine offers. You’ll also enjoy a light lunch with local produce from farm to table. It doesn’t get any better than this.

Tour Details: Prosecco Valley Tour From Venice

LISTEN: to our podcast episode on the Prosecco Hills .

Murano, Burano, and Torcello Islands Day Trip

Join this Venice Lagoon tour for a unique coastal excursion to discover Murano’s craftsmanship, Burano ‘s vibrant streets, and Torcello’s rich history. You’ll start the day at Murano Island, where you’ll visit a glass factory that showcases the island’s artistry. The glass-blowing demonstration will captivate your imagination.

Next up, spend a couple of hours admiring the tapestry of colorful houses and enjoying a light meal in Burano. 

Lastly, you’ll visit Torcello, where you can admire the Byzantine mosaics at Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta before jumping back aboard your boat and heading home.

Experience Details : Venice Lagoon Islands Tour

NOTE: You’ll have an opportunity to admire the emerald-green waters of the Venice Lagoon from the boat’s open-air deck.

Cortina and Dolomites Mountain Day Trip

Get fresh air away from the city on this Dolomites Mountain day trip . During this full-day outing, you’ll travel in style to the picturesque ski town of Cortina. You’ll have some free time here to explore the boutique shops and patisseries before hitting the road again.

If you join the tour between the 15th of November to the third week of May, the tour stops in San Candido and Lake Braies. Any other time of the year, you’ll go to Lake Misurina and Tre Cime di Lavaredo, which offer stunning views of the Dolomite Mountains , a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Experience Details: Cortina and Dolomites Mountain Trip

Lake Garda Day Trip

For a romantic day floating along the majestic waters near Verona, join this Lake Garda boat cruise . This is the perfect half-day tour along the turquoise lake, sailing past iconic sites such as Scaligero Castle and the Medieval castle of Lazise.

Before you adventure past gorgeous citadels and pristine Venetian villas, indulge in a sommelier-led tasting in Bardolino. To wrap things up, you’ll pass some more timeless monuments, like the Romanesque Torri del Benaco Scaligero Castle.

NOTE: You’ll need to catch an hour and a half train ride or drive a car from Venice to Peschiera del Garda, the tour’s departure point. Train tickets start at around €12 per person. 

Tour Details: Lake Garda Cruise

Full-Day Brenta Riviera Boat Trip

There’s nothing better than enjoying the sunshine and some gorgeous scenery, so how about joining this Brenta Riviera boat cruise . This lovely excursion passes many famous Venetian Villas with a guided tour of some, such as Villa Foscari and Villa Pisani (pictured above).

If you get peckish, the cruise stops at the famous Il Burchiello restaurant for a discounted lunch with mesmerizing riverside views. You’ll also pass nine draw-bridges, five locks, and several picturesque villages along the way to Padua.

Tour Details: Brenta Riviera Boat Cruise

City Day Trip From Venice Ideas

If there’s one thing Italy isn’t short of, its beautiful cities — and Venice is an arm’s length away from several charming destinations. These nearby cities each have their magnetizing effects, from inviting atmospheres to impressive architecture that you cannot help but snap a photo of.

These day trips from Venice are all worth considering, so here’s some extra information to help you choose.

Verona has a long history, and there’s no better place to discover this than at its Centro Storico. Marvel at the wide-arched piazzas, churches like Santi Aposteli, and famous museums like Juliet’s House .

When you’re not exploring, you can enjoy a coffee at one of the many cafes along Piazza Bra, all while admiring the Verona Arena .

If you want to see other fantastic sights across the city, consider joining this private walking tour , including the Arco Dei Gavi and a walk across Ponte Pietra.

TOP TIP: When booking with Liv Tours , get 5% off with our code UntoldItaly .

How to Get to Verona

Trains depart from Venice Santa Lucia for Verona Porta Nuova and take an hour and 30 minutes on average. Usually, there are 35 direct trips from Venice to Verona, with tickets starting at around €10.

A bus ride is slightly longer, with times averaging an hour and 45 minutes. Most buses depart from Tronchetto Fermata Dell’autobus and travel to Verona’s Girolamo Cardinale bus station. On average, ticket prices start around €7.

Driving from Venice takes about an hour and 15 minutes, as you’ll travel along the A4 and E70. The Piazzale Olimpia car park is your best bet for finding free parking. You will then have to walk or catch a bus to the historic center (2.1 miles away).

READ: our guide to the Best things to do in Verona .

Padua is a Medieval town packed with memorable history and architecture. You simply have to visit the Piazza Dei Signori, with the gorgeous Marciani Column and Torre Del’Orologio taking the limelight.

Other iconic sights include the Padua Duomo and Basilica di Sant’Antonio, which showcase the beauty of the town. If you want to see Giotto’s handy work, visit the Cappella Degli Scrovegni and take in the breathtaking frescos.

Padua also has lush garden spaces, from the exotic Orto Botanico to the Prato Della Valle. Fun fact, the Prato Della Valle is also the largest square in Italy and Europe.

TOP TIP: Join this Padua private experience to explore the entire city. 

How to Get to Padua

Taking the train from Venice Santa Lucia to Padova Train Station is a short half-hour trip. The first train leaves around 05:05, and the last departs at 00:15, with tickets averaging €5 one way.

A bus trip takes roughly 50 minutes and usually runs from Mestre Stazione to Parcheggio Ex Pesa Pubblica. Tickets are also very affordable, starting at around €2 per person.

Driving to Padua is usually a half-hour trip as you travel along the E70. It’s a good idea to park at the Piazza Rabin guarded parking area, as it’s safe and only a 2-minute walk from Basilica di Santa Giustina. 

Treviso is another Medieval town blessed with beauty beyond your imagination. The five turquoise domed roofs of the Cathedral of San Pietro perfectly imitate the Sile River’s crystal waters that flow near the city. 

When you’re not looking at the frescos by Pordenone, or paintings by Titian at San Pietro, explore the city walls and gates. You can get majestic views of the Alps from Porta San Tommaso — one of the stunning city gates.

Although it’s a small city, you can still enjoy life’s simple pleasures at the cafes that line Piazza dei Signori or enjoy its enchanting canals.

TOP TIP: For an authentic experience, enjoy this unique private meal at a local’s house .

How to Get to Treviso

Treviso is a short and sweet half-hour ride by high-speed train from Santa Lucia to Treviso Centrale. There are an average of 64 trips on this route, and you can expect tickets to start at €4 per person. 

Bus rides take about an hour, and most depart from Piazzale Roma and travel to Parcheggio Comunale. Tickets are more than you might expect for this short trip, starting at €4 per person. 

Traveling by car takes an average of 35 minutes as you drive along the A27. Free parking is tough to find, so it’s best to seek out a spot in the city center and pay the €1 per hour fee. 

Vicenza is a sprawling historic city where the Basilica Palladiana takes center stage. It’s located in the Piazza dei Signori and includes intricate window designs with high wooden ceilings. 

That’s not the only iconic landmark in the city, as a walking tour of Teatro Olimpico will show. This theater is much more than a place of performance; boasting a pristine garden, towering sculptures, and stunning architecture.

Art lovers can also explore the city’s museums, like the Museo Palladiano or the Vicenza Museo Civico.

How to Get to Vicenza

High-speed trains from Santa Lucia to Vicenza Train Station take 45 minutes to an hour. With a reasonable travel time, the average price is €7 per ticket, making it an affordable option. 

Buses have the longest travel time, averaging €6 per ticket. Most buses depart from Mestre Stazione and travel to Vicenza Autostazione, with a travel time of just over an hour. Note that you will most likely need to catch a 15-minute bus ride from Piazza San Marco to Mestre Stazione, as it’s outside Venice’s city center. 

Driving will take you roughly 50 minutes as you travel via the E70. The Piazzale Vittoria is a good option if you’re looking for free parking in the small city. The parking area is only a mile from Basilica Palladian.

Of the day trips from Venice, Ferrara is one of the shortest and loveliest. You can’t go wrong exploring Castello Estense, with its moat, orange tree garden, and towers that offer a fantastic view of the city.

Despite the damage from World War II (40% of the homes were destroyed), famous landmarks are still standing. Some of the top ones you should consider seeing include the Museo Archeologico Nazionale, Cattedrale di San Giorgio, and Rotonda Foschini. 

The city walls and old Jewish District all add to the fact that Ferrara is a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

TOP TIP: If you want to discover all the city has to offer, join this guided walking tour .

How to Get to Ferrara

Train rides take an average of an hour and 30 minutes, with tickets starting at €10 per person. You will depart from Santa Lucia with a scenic journey to the Ferrara Train Station.  

Direct buses tend to take an hour and 45 minutes and pass through Padua. Most buses depart from Viale Stazione and arrive at Piazzale Della Stazione. You can expect prices in the range of €5 per person. 

Driving to Ferrara will take around an hour and 15 minutes as you travel along the A13. Free parking is at Ex-Mof (15 minutes from the city center), or you can pay €1.60 per hour at Piazza del Travaglio.

Coastal Venice Day Trip Ideas

The Venice trips aren’t finished just yet. The east coast is a region of Italy that you should definitely consider visiting. So here are two great day trips from Venice that might be just right for you.

To experience one of the best barrier islands of Italy, you’ll need to take a 30-minute ferry ride to Venice Lido. The boat rides depart from Marco-San Zaccaria and dock at Lido S.M.E, with tickets starting at €1.50 per person.

You can explore an Armenian Monastery, enjoy the beach, or explore the protected nature reserve, Oasis of Alberoni. It’s easy to say this is a lovely day trip you’ll never forget.

LISTEN: to our podcast episode on the Islands of Venice .

An hour’s bus ride or a 50-minute drive south, you’ll find the Medieval city of Chioggia. This coastal oasis offers everything from gondola rides down the Grand Canal to historic buildings like Forte San Felice. If you want to enjoy the beachside getaway, Astoria Beach is a great place to catch some sun.

Summary – Which Venice Day Trips Are You Excited For?

If there’s one thing you may have noticed, it’s that there are some fantastic Venice side trips just waiting for you. Whether exploring the Dolomite Mountains or admiring Verona, you can add some of these day trips from Venice to your itinerary. 

While you’re here, have a look at the best hotels in Venice to find your dream accommodation.

Planning a trip to Italy?

We love travel in Italy and sharing our knowledge. Read our Italy trip planning guide or join our FREE Italy travel planning community . Our 115,000+ members are happy to answer questions about your itinerary, how to get from place to place, the best places to stay and fun things to do.

Sign up for our news and podcast updates where we share mini guides, tips, exclusive deals and more and we'll send you our Italy Trip Planning Checklist to say grazie ! >> click here to subscribe

Italy City Guides

Latest italy travel podcasts and articles, how to buy tickets for the doge’s palace venice, episode #208: introducing the amazing artisans of venice, where to stay in venice, italy: neighborhood and area guide, best hotels in venice, italy: top 5 star, boutique and luxury hotels, episode #185: venetian cicchetti – a food lovers guide, episode #177: budget friendly venice, how to get from rome to venice.

Please share if you found this article useful

Touropia Travel Experts

Discover the World

11 Best Day Trips from Venice

Venice is a wonderful city, but there may come a time when travelers want a change of pace and scenery, if only for a day. Visitors have a lot of options when it comes to getting away from Venice for a few hours. They need only hop on a train or take a tour for a trip to the scenic beauty of the southern Alps, also known as the Dolomite. Or they can travel down the coast of Italy or inland to smaller towns with a great heritage and beauty. An overview of the best day trips from Venice:

Map of day trips from Venice

11. Bassano del Grappa

Located in a beautiful setting with the foothills of the Alps rising behind it and the Brenta River flowing through it, Bassano del Grappa makes for a great day trip from Venice, and there is loads for you to see and do. As well as boasting lots of impressive palaces, churches, and architectural wonders dating to both the Middles Ages and the Renaissance, the city is also famed for the strong grappa spirit produced here.

While Piazza Garibaldi and Piazza della Liberta may be at the heart of life in Bassano del Grappa, the beautiful Ponte degli Alpini is undoubtedly its most popular attraction; it is certainly a great place to take a memorable photo or two before heading back to Venice.

Getting to Bassano del Grappa

• Lying to the northwest of Venice, Bassano del Grappa is very easy to get to by public transport, and a direct train line connects the two. Trains depart very frequently, and the journey only takes an hour and 15 minutes. Once you arrive, the scenic city center is just a short stroll away.
• Another option is to take a guided tour; this is a great way to get a feel for the lovely Venetian hill towns. With stops at Bassano del Grappa, Asolo, and Marostica included, alongside prosecco tasting at a local vineyard and a visit to a Palladian villa, it is an action-packed day out, and you’re sure to come away with fond memories of all you’ve seen and done.

10. Bologna

Home to the oldest university in the world, Bologna is well worth visiting. It is full of lovely architecture and a host of impressive historical and cultural landmarks. Piazza Maggiore, for instance, is ringed with gorgeous buildings, and Basilica of San Petronio and Palazzo del Podesta are just two of the highlights.

Famed for its beautiful colonnades found everywhere in the city, Bologna is widely considered by Italians to be one of the most beautiful cities in the country. In addition to this, it has one of the largest historical centers in Italy. Due to its sizeable student population, there is a youthful and lively feel to Bologna; the streets are lined with great bars, restaurants, and cafes for you to check out.

Getting to Bologna

• By train, it only takes an hour and a half to reach Bologna from Venice, so in no time at all, you’ll find yourself wandering through the historical city and taking in the fabulous sights. The main train station lies about 20 minutes walk away from Piazza Maggiore in the center of the city. On the way, you’ll pass lots of lovely old buildings and impressive architecture.

9. Lake Garda

The largest lake in Italy, Lake Garda is an absolute treat to visit, and its glittering waters are lined with charming towns and villages that hug the lakeside. As such, there are loads of great places to visit; one of the most popular attractions is the beautiful Castello Scaligieri, which is located in Sirmione.

While Desenzano del Garda and Peschiera Del Garda are two of the main gateways to Lake Garda, it is well worth exploring a little further afield to check out such places as Riva del Garda and Gardone Riviera; both are located amongst some absolutely stunning scenery. You really can’t go wrong wherever you visit, however, as everywhere you go, you’ll be blessed with breathtaking views over the lake with beautiful mountains in the distance.

Getting to Lake Garda

• From Venice, it only takes an hour and a half to get to the glorious Lake Garda by public transport. Simply hop on a train at Venice Santa Lucia station and alight at Peschiera Del Garda station with the lake glittering before you. From here, you can either take another train up the east coast of Lake Garda to visit some of the lovely little towns and villages up there, or take a scenic boat trip on the lake itself. Alternatively, you can take the train just a little bit further to Desenzano del Garda, the largest town on the lake.
• By car, it again takes about an hour and a half to get to Peschiera Del Garda. The directions are straightforward to follow; all you need to do is head west out of Venice then pick up the E70, which goes directly to Lake Garda. Once you have arrived, you can either park up and take a boat trip on the lake or head off to explore some of the charming towns and picturesque villages that dot the lakeside. While driving certainly has its advantages, during the summer, the lakeside roads can get quite congested, and it can be difficult to find parking spaces. After visiting the lake, you could stop off at nearby Verona on your way back to Venice.

8. Florence

Renowned throughout the world for being the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence only takes two hours to get to by train from Venice; as such, it is a must-see if you have the chance. With spectacular sights on show such as the Ponte Vecchio, Piazza Signoria, and Santa Maria del Fiore – the impressive domed cathedral that lies at the heart of the city – Florence truly is a joy to explore.

Everywhere you go, you’ll come across fantastic art and architecture, and both the Uffizi Galleries and Accademia Gallery are full to the brim with incredible artworks. Lined with beautiful churches and lovely little cafes and restaurants, its piazzas are lovely to relax in. At the end of the day, you’ll find it hard to tear yourself away and head back to Venice.

Getting to Florence

• As direct trains connect Venice to Florence, it doesn’t take all that long to get from one to the other. You can find yourself wandering around stunning sights such as il Duomo and il Ponte Vecchio in a little over two hours after having set off. Once you arrive at Florence’s Santa Maria Novella station, it is just a short walk to many of its most impressive attractions.
• Another option for visiting Florence is to take an independent but organized day trip to the marvelous Renaissance city. This includes tickets for the high-speed train there and back, as well as a hop-on-hop-off bus tour around Florence. With so much to see and do, you can explore the city at your own pace, stopping off to see whatever takes your fancy.

7. Asolo & Castelfranco

As they lie just a short distance away from each other, many people combine both Asolo – ‘the City of a Hundred Horizons’ – and the walled, medieval city of Castelfranco into one unforgettable day trip. While the former is renowned for its glorious mountain setting that offers up astounding views over the surrounding countryside, Castelfranco is mainly known as being the birthplace of the famous Renaissance painter Giorgione.

In addition to this, it is also a lovely place to wander around. The medieval center has been very well preserved, with its beautiful Duomo, spectacular Teatro Accademico, and imposing Torre Civica amongst its most impressive sights. Asolo has its fair share of historical and cultural monuments to show off, such as its splendid cathedral and hilltop fortress. It is for good reason that it is also known as ‘the Pearl of Veneto.’

Getting to Asolo & Castelfranco

• Visiting both Asolo and Castelfranco in one day by public transport is very easy to do; the latter is only an hour-long direct train journey from Venice. After exploring the majestic walled city, you can hop on bus 204, which will take you to Ca’vescovo in just 25 minutes. It is then a 20-minute walk up a steep hillside to get to Asolo, where you can enjoy breathtaking views out over the surrounding countryside.
• Driving to both places yourself is another option and means you could also visit any of the surrounding sights, such as Cittadella and Bassano del Grappa, provided you have enough time. From Venice to Castelfranco, it is only an hour-long drive, and the directions are quite simple. Once you’ve headed out of the city on the SR11, you need to stay on the SR245 all the way to the medieval town. To get to Asolo from Castelfranco takes half-an-hour. Just follow the SP667 north before transferring onto the SP6; that will take you directly to the hilltop town.
• If you’re a bit pressed for time, taking a guided tour may be the easiest way to see as much of this beautiful part of Italy as possible in just one day. In addition to visiting Asolo, Castelfranco, and Bassano del Grappa, you’ll come away having learned a lot about each historic place. Highlights include the Caterina Corner Castle in Asolo and the spectacular Duomo di Castelfranco.

Ravenna’s old churches, some dating back 1,500 years, are a very good reason to make the two-hour train trip from Venice. These churches contain some of the best Byzantine mosaics in Europe. The central city section is popular with pedestrians and bicyclists as they stop to see the Basilica di San Vitale with fabulous mosaics such as scenes with the Apostles.

Other attractions in Ravenna include the Piazza del Populo, the town square that dates back to 1500; the colorful indoor market Mercato Coperto to buy snacks, and the Mausoleum de Gallia Placidia with its fantastic mosaics.

Getting to Ravenna

• Lying almost directly to the south of Venice, Ravenna only takes about two hours to get to by train, although this does involve a change at Bologna. Simply hop on a train at Venice Santa Lucia station, then change to a train for Ravenna from Bologna. The platforms are very clearly signposted, and once you arrive, you’ll find yourself right in the heart of Ravenna.

A popular day trip from Venice, Padua may be the oldest city in northern Italy, reportedly founded by the Trojans in the 12 century BC. Ancient history aside, the city’s top attraction is the Scrovegni Chapel that is home to an important series of frescoes painted by Giotto in his later years; the frescoes are considered a masterpiece of 14th century painting in Europe.

Impressive art, including an equestrian sculpture by Donatello, can be found at Basilica de Sant’ Antonio where the apostle St. Mark is buried. Visitors will want to take a break at the Caffé Pedrocchi that has been serving customers since 1831.

Getting to Padua

• By public transport, it takes as little as half-an-hour to get to Padua from Venice and trains depart very frequently. Once you alight, it is then just a ten-minute walk across the Benta river to see spectacular sights like the Scrovegni Chapel. After having seen Padua, it is well worth heading on to visit either Vicenza or Verona, which lie further along the same train line.
• Another memorable way to visit Padua from Venice is to join a scenic boat cruise that takes you all along the Brenta river to the historic city. As well as passing through some lovely countryside on the way, you’ll also stop off at three beautiful Venetian villas and the charming village of Oriago. In addition to enjoying the fabulous views, you’ll also learn a lot about the history and culture of the region, thanks to your informative and interesting guide.

Just 60 km (37 miles) from Venice is the historic, cosmopolitan city of Vicenza. It’s famous for its architecture, especially buildings by Andrea Palladio, who built several, of which the Teatro Olimpico is one of his most famous. Visitors will want to stroll through the historic section, stopping to take in museums, art galleries and public squares, including the Piazza dei Signori that was also designed by Palladio.

Just outside the city lies the Villa Rotonda, the highlight, and sometimes the main reason, of anyone’s trip to Vicenza. Designed by Palladio in 1591, it contains all of his revolutionary ideas into one perfect building. As harmonious as the exterior is, the interior is also breathtaking, being completely frescoed with tromp l’oeil scenes from the villa’s ideal everyday life.

Getting to Vicenza

• As direct trains regularly connect Venice to Vicenza, it takes no time at all to get to the small city by public transport. The journey takes around 45 minutes, and as Vicenza is quite compact, it is effortless to walk everywhere. As it lies on the same train line, you could conceivably visit either Verona or Padua in the same day after having seen Vicenza.

A visit to Verona is a must for Shakespeare fans, since Romeo and Juliet, The Two Gentlemen of Verona and The Taming of the Shrew are set here. Sites connected to the plays, however, are beat out by the ornate Romanesque San Zeno Maggiore Church, which is considered Verona’s top tourist attraction.

Another top draw is the Ponte Scaligero, a bridge first built in the first century and rebuilt after it was destroyed in World War II. The most famous structure in Verona however is the Arena, an enormous Roman amphitheater that is crumbling on the outside but still functioning today. It was erected in the 1st century AD in an elliptical shape, and is the world’s third-largest amphitheater to survive from antiquity. Verona is 114 km (71 miles) from Venice and can be reached easily by train or car.

Getting to Verona

• Lying just to the west of Venice, Verona couldn’t be easier to reach by public transport, and regular trains connect the two cities. Simply hop on a train at Venice Santa Lucia train station and alight just over an hour later in Verona. From the train station, it is just a short walk to the glorious city center and all its spectacular sights.
• For visitors interested in learning more about Verona’s fascinating past, a guided tour around the city is simply a must; this will not only take you to see Juliet’s house, but also to the impressive Roman amphitheater, the Verona Duomo, and the Castelvecchio bridge. With a knowledgeable guide on hand, this marvelous city and its astonishing historical and cultural landmarks will be brought to life before your very eyes.

2. Dolomites

The Dolomites are considered one of the top alpine areas in Europe. While they’re not Italy’s highest mountains, the Dolomites’ red-hued pinnacles are the country’s most spectacular. One of the best places to enjoy the alpine experience is Cortina d’Ampezzo, popular with jet setters and winter sports enthusiasts; Cortina hosted the 1956 Winter Olympics.

The popular 1963 movie, The Pink Panther, was filmed here. The Dolomites are popular with hikers who want to hike its many paths. The spectacular scenery of the Dolomites can be found just over 160 km (100 miles) from Venice.

Getting to the Dolomites

• To get to the Dolomites by public transport from Venice is doable, but as it takes quite a long time, it is a good idea to start early and plan your journey well in advance. The simplest way to get there is to take a train from Venice to Calalzo di Cadore. From here, take a bus to Cortina d’Ampezzo, which is nestled away amidst the Dolomites. All in all, this should take you around three and a half hours one way, depending on the transfer times. Alternatively, you could head out of the city to Venice Airport and take a direct two-hour bus to Cortina from there.
• Driving to the Dolomites yourself is another option; while this does then mean you can stop off wherever you feel like, the roads can be quite narrow and winding, with some hair-raising hairpin bends. The directions, however, are very simple; all you need to do is head out of Venice and pick up the A27 heading north. Once you get to Ponte nelle Alpi, this turns into the SS51, and you can follow it all the way to Cortina d’Ampezzo. The drive should take about two hours, and once you’ve seen Cortina, there are loads of lovely mountain roads for you to explore throughout the spectacular Dolomites.
• If neither of these two options suit your needs, you may be better off taking a guided tour. With a visit to the beautiful Tre Cime di Lavaredo peaks and a stop at Cortina included, alongside a stroll around Lake Misurina – otherwise known as ‘the Pearl of the Dolomites’ – this tour is a fantastic way to see as much of this beautiful part of Italy as possible in just one day.

1. Lagoon Islands

The Venice Lagoon is dotted with islands, with the northern outlying islands of Murano, Burano and Torcello the most famous. Murano is famous for its glassmaking where travelers can visit shops and see artisans at work as well as several historic churches.

Burano is an island of fisher folk that is also known for lace making and its colorfully painted houses. At one time Torcello was bigger than Venice; today, it’s a quiet, green island that is famous for ancient Byzantine churches, including the Cathedral of Santa Maria Asunta. Vaporettos link the islands and Venice together.

Getting to the Lagoon Islands

• By public transport, it is straightforward to visit the beautiful islands that are scattered around the lagoon. To get to Murano, for instance, only takes half-an-hour; Vaporetto line 3 departs from right in front of Venice Santa Lucia train station. These trains depart very frequently, and the journey is lovely, as you pass through Venice on the way. After having explored Murano to your heart’s content, you can then always hop on another Vaporetto to Burano; line 12 should get you there in half-an-hour. As Torcello lies just 15 minutes further along the same line, it is very easy to visit all three in only one day.
• Another lovely option for visiting Murano, Burano, and Torcello is to embark on a guided tour that takes you around the three islands to see glass blowing, beautiful lace being made, and lots of impressive old churches and stunning architecture. With an expert guide accompanying you, you’ll learn a lot about the history of each place and get to see all of the main sights on show.

Share this post:

Where to Stay in Venice: Best Areas & Hotels

How To Spend One Week in Italy: DIY Itinerary

Visiting Chioggia: Little Venice’s Best Kept Secrets

14 Best Places to Visit in Veneto, Italy

Best Time to Visit Venice: Month-by-Month Guide

25 Top Tourist Attractions in Venice

Where to Stay in Naples: Best Neighborhoods & Hotels

14 Best Places to Visit in Lazio, Italy

Where to Stay in Milan: Best Neighborhoods & Hotels

12 Best Places to Visit in Calabria, Italy

Reader interactions.

January 17, 2016 at 2:52 pm

Is it feasible to go from both Padua and Vicenza in one day? Do you have a tour that does this?

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Venice

Day trips from venice.

• Venice to Burano
• Venice to Valdobbiadene
• Venice to Verona
• Venice to Cortina d'Ampezzo
• Private Day Trips
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Murano & Burano Islands Guided Small-Group Tour by Private Boat

2. St Marks, Doges Palace, with Murano and Burano & Gondola Ride

3. A day among the most beautiful mountains in the world, the Dolomites and Lake Braies

4. Murano Glass Experience with a Visit to a Burano lace island

5. Prosecco Hills Tour with Wine Tasting & Lunch from Venice Treviso

6. Full Day Prosecco Wine Tasting from Venice

7. Full-day Boat Tour of Venice Islands from St Mark’s Square

8. Cortina & Dolomites Small Group full Day tour from Venice

9. Classic Venice Full Day Tour from Gardone, Maderno, Salò

10. Private Guided Tour in the Dolomites from Venice

11. 5-Hour Guided Tour of the Magic Islands by Vintage Boat in Venice

12. Murano, Burano & Torcello Islands Full-Day Tour

13. Private One Day Tour of Venice!

14. Full-Day Venice Lagoon Tour Murano Burano and Torcello

15. Venice Islands Boat Trip Murano Burano,(Torcello)

16. Top 3 supercar visit Lamborghini, Ferrari, Pagani from Venice

17. Boat excursion to the islands of Murano, Burano and Torcello

18. Prosecco - Wine tour & tasting - Full day in the Prosecco region

19. Lamborghini and Ferrari Day Tour - From Venice

20. From Venice Olive Oil & Wine in the Euganean Hills

21. Venice:Half Day Tour to Murano & Burano Islands with Wine Tasting

22. Verona Guided Tour from Venice by train

23. Between Lakes and Mountains Private Tour from Venice to the Dolomites

24. Private Grand Canal Boat Tour , Murano and Burano 6 hours

25. Venice in a day

26. Classic Venice Full Day Tour from Sirmione

27. Verona in 1 day by train from Venice

28. Friendinvenice Murano Burano Torcello private tours By Luxury water taxi

29. Venice : Private Custom Walking Tour with a Local Guide

30. Private Venice walking tour plus Murano island lunch and glass factory visit

What travellers are saying.

• Murano & Burano Islands Guided Small-Group Tour by Private Boat
• St Marks, Doges Palace, with Murano and Burano & Gondola Ride
• A day among the most beautiful mountains in the world, the Dolomites and Lake Braies
• Murano Glass Experience with a Visit to a Burano lace island
• Full-Day Venice Lagoon Tour Murano Burano and Torcello
• Nico Venice Tour
• A sparkling day on the Prosecco hills by Yellowboot
• Waystours - Venice
• enzo mistretta
• Il Burchiello
• Classic Boats Venice
• Venezia Catamaran Cruises
• Beyond Venice Tourist Guide
• Chiara Private tour guide in Venice
• Do Eat Better Experience - Venice Food Tour
• Passeggiate Italiane - Tours
• Avventure Bellissime

Europe Chevron

Italy Chevron

Venice Chevron

3 Best Day Trips from Venice

By Andrea Whittle

If you’re in Venice for more than a few days, or you’re going back for the second or third time, it’s worth spending some time exploring the rest of the Veneto region. There’s plenty to see on day trips from Venice, whether you rent a boat and check out the distant islands of the lagoon, or head inland for some serious art and architectural history. The easiest, and probably most popular itinerary, is to combine visits to Torcello, Murano and Burano, the city’s outer islands known for their history of craftsmanship and colorful architecture. If the idea of visiting a smaller, less touristed city seems more like your thing, take the train to Padua for an afternoon. Or, you could do an architecture road trip, visiting the famed Palladian Villas, the former country houses of the Venetian elite built by a master renaissance architect.

Click the link to read our complete Venice guide .

Less than an hour from Venice by train, Padua is a perennially underrated (read: uncrowded) stop on the Veneto circuit. Art history buffs make the trip to see Giotto’s Scrovegni chapel alone, but it’s easy to build a day around the city’s other renaissance landmarks and sophisticated restaurants. Once you’ve secured timed tickets to the chapel—a must—build your day from there, with stops at the Basilica of St. Anthony and the Prato della Valle. For lunch or dinner, either splurge at the Michelin-starred Le Calandre or hit up the more old-school Ristorante Belle Parti.

Prato della Valle Arrow

Technically the largest square in Europe, the oval-shaped Prato della Valle is really more of a manicured park, with a grassy central island surrounded by a statue-lined moat and four tidy little footbridges. You'll see local students spread out for a nap on the lawn and tourists snapping photos of marble statues of Galileo or Petrarch. Take your time to check out the 78 statues that surround the central island—they tell the history of the city through its most important figures.

Ristorante Belle Parti Arrow

Located inside an old palazzo in the city center, Ristorante Belle Parti has the ceremonial, romantic vibe of a grand turn-of-the-century hotel. A ceiling with exposed wood beams hangs over a dining room with buttery-yellow light, white tablecloths, and low, unfussy flower arrangements. The food is traditional but not staid, with a few Southeast Asian accents here and there, like grilled squid with papaya or catch-of-the-day tartare with finger limes. It's best to focus on the seafood dishes on the menu, particularly the fish pastas.

Scrovegni Chapel Arrow

Scrovegni Chapel, which is completely covered in vivid, emotive frescoes by Giotto—including a deep-blue starry sky on the vaulted ceiling—is a true jewel box. Even if you never cared about Renaissance art before, the haunting biblical scenes and stunning use of color will blow you away. Because the space is so small, and because the art is so sensitive to environmental damage, you can only see it with a timed ticket that must be booked at least 24 hours in advance; we recommend reserving at least four days in advance.

Olivia Morelli

Stacey Lastoe

Maresa Manara

Le Calandre Arrow

Behind an unassuming facade on the outskirts of Padua, Le Calandre, a three-Michelin-starred restaurant, is slick without being cold and swanky without being intimidating. The food, best experienced with one of the three tasting menus is a complex, artful take on Italian cuisine. If you're in Padua for the day and want to splurge on one of the country's best fine dining restaurants, book dinner here.

Basilica of St. Anthony of Padua Arrow

Built in the 1300s, Basilica of Saint Anthony, a beloved church known to locals as "Il Santo," is a massive, gilded, glamorous mishmash of Gothic, Byzantine, and Romanesque styles, with a few Baroque chapels to boot. In addition to a chapel containing some of Christianity's most important relics, it's filled with bronze statues, ornate frescoes and marble work, a gilded ceiling, and light-filtering stained glass. Entry is free; just make sure you're wearing church-appropriate clothing.

Torcello/Murano/Burano

The most comfortable and efficient way to see Venice’s outer islands is to have your hotel hook you up with a boat for the day. It can be a little pricey, but if you have limited time, avoiding the sometimes Byzantine-seeming public vaporetto system is worth it. Plus, having your own boat makes it easy to build your own, one-day itinerary. Here’s how you do it: Head to Torcello first, for an early lunch in the garden at Locanda Cipriani and a wander through the Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta. Then, head over to Burano, known for its quaint rainbow of buildings and history of lacemaking and browse the island’s retro-chic linen stores. End the day in Murano, where the city’s artisan glassmakers still have all of their workshops, for some heavy-hitting souvenir shopping, a visit to the Museum of Glass, and finally, pasta and tiramisu at the lovely, low-key Osteria Acquastanca.

Locanda Cipriani Arrow

The Locanda Cipriani provides a pretty slice of Merchant Ivory-tinted Venice: a shady old-fashioned garden on the beautiful little lagoon island of Torcello, with old-fashioned service and old-fashioned food that verges on the hotel variety. That said, you’re here for the setting and the Grand Tour ambience. From Ernest Hemingway and generations of British royals, to mid-20th-century A-list actors and presidents: Many big names have passed through the Cipriani’s country-inn-style doors.

Museo del Vetro Arrow

Situated in a Gothic palazzo, this museum is dedicated to the traditional Venetian craft of glassblowing. It's the largest collection of Murano glass in the world, which might seem a bit niche until you get up close to the pieces themselves. They are spectacular: Ornate goblets so delicate you wonder how they even stand up, colorful handmade beads, and cut crystal are all arranged in rooms that range from frescoed great halls to modernist white cubes. The museum is well-curated, thoughtfully laid out, and visually fascinating. If you're remotely into design or decorative arts, this place is a must see.

Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta (Basilica di Torcello) Arrow

With its off-kilter bell tower and simple brick exterior, Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta, a small, 7th-century church, doesn't look like much from the outside. Inside, it's a Byzantine jewel box with glittering mosaics and floors covered with marble tiles. This is one of the oldest buildings in the Veneto region, and it's an interesting example of the Byzantine style that influenced some of the city's later, grander structures, like St. Mark's Basilica. Three euros gets you in the door; an extra two gets you a to-the-point audioguide.

Osteria Acquastanca Arrow

This tiny, cozy restaurant in Murano is probably the best food on the island. The menu focuses on fresh, light versions of the lagoon's greatest hits: The spaghetti alle vongole , polenta with baccala , gnocchi with vegetables and tagliolini with squid ink are all fabulous. And the desserts, especially the tiramisu and the lemon tart, are lovely. The place has a family-run vibe that leaves it felling casual, but special.

Museo del Merletto Arrow

Housed in a building that once housed the island's lacemaking school, Museo del Merletto offers an intimate, up-close look at the history of Burano's most famous craft. The collection, arranged chronologically, starts from the origins of lace in the 16th century and continues through the present today, with glamorous Renaissance examples laid out for careful inspection in tiered cases. The space is relatively quiet, save for some slow moving tour groups during the high season in summer and the lace tends to bring those with an air of pensive curiosity.

Palladian Villas

If you’re into real estate porn, it doesn’t get much more spectacular than the villas built by Andrea Palladio. The influential Renaissance architect was responsible for some of the most beautiful buildings of the 16th century, catering especially to the demands for country houses from Venice’s growing bourgeoisie. The structures themselves are classical in style, inspired by his study of traditional Roman houses, and often filled with stunning frescoes and surrounded by bucolic gardens. Perhaps the best known are Villa Foscari (a.k.a. “La Malcontenta”), Villa Almerico Capra, and Villa Maser. You could rent a car and pack a few into one day, or pick one and make an afternoon out of it, with stops to refuel at the funky, self-service Righetti (near La Rotonda) or the pizza spot Al Giardinetto (on the way to Foscari).

Villa Foscari (La Malcontenta) Arrow

Villa Foscari, a classically styled mansion, is perhaps the most famous of the legendary villas designed by the architect Andrea Palladio in the 16th century. On the outside, perfectly symmetrical porticoes overlook manicured lawns and a romantic stretch of river. Inside, the piano nobile (the main floor) is painted floor-to-ceiling with frescoes that tell the stories of Roman gods. Even though it's a UNESCO World Heritage site, it's actually still a private home (lived in by a family that forgoes all but essential electricity and lights the place with sunshine, candlelight, and fireplaces), so visiting hours are limited.

Al Giardinetto da Severino Arrow

Al Giardinetto, a casual pizza spot, just outside of Venice between Mestre and Marghera, is a solid choice for lunch if you're visiting Andrea Palladio's Villa Foscari, just down the road. The move: Skip the slightly clinical interior and grab one of the outside tables in the back. It's all about pizza here, and you can't go wrong if you stick to classics like prosciutto e funghi or a spicy diavolo. The dough isn't on the super-thin side—it's substantial, lightly charred, and chewy.

Villa Barbaro (Villa di Maser) Arrow

Villa di Maser, an elegant Palladian villa, with its wide portico and interiors filled with Veronese frescoes, is just as architecturally interesting as the others in the region. But it's also a working vineyard, with wine tastings and farmhouse tours on offer as well. It's open to the public Tuesdays through Sundays, from April to October, and advance booking isn't necessary unless you're with a larger group. For those who cringe at the idea of yet another tour, the fact that the villa is also a working vineyard will make this one more interesting.

Righetti Arrow

Righetti is what Italians call a "self restaurant"—similar to a buffet. You pick and set your own table, head to the back to ask for the plates you want, fill up your wine carafe from the tap, and enjoy. The only thing servers will bring directly to you is a post-lunch espresso, making the experience cozy, ultra low-key, and casual. The specialty here is homestyle Italian food: marinated grilled veggies, simple and hearty pastas, roasted potatoes, creamy blobs of polenta with stew, and straightforward, unadorned meat dishes. If you're driving around the region to see the Palladian Villas, this is a great place to stop for a casual lunch.

Villa Almerico Capra (La Rotonda) Arrow

Grander inside and out than many of the other buildings by Renaissance architect Andrea Palladio, Villa Almerico Capra, a domed hilltop villa, is a must for architecture buffs and anyone who loves a good house tour. There's no need to book in advance, but opening hours are mind-bogglingly complex: It's open year round, Tuesday through Saturday, for a few hours in the mornings and in the afternoons, but the interior is only open on certain days from March to November. When in doubt, check the villa's Facebook page or contact a staff member through the website.

Recommended

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

9 Best Day Trips From Venice by Train Under 1 Hour

Looking for the best day trips from Venice under 1 hour by train? Here are 9 wonderful places you can visit easily from the Venetian capital.

The iconic gondolas faring on the equally iconic waterways… the impressive Gothic buildings, ornate bridges, and charming piazzas…

Really, there’s not much more left to say about this city that has for centuries ignited romance and inspired countless romantic declarations of excitement.

Venice is not only one of the world’s most beautiful destinations, it also one of the safest cities you can visit in Italy. However, today we are going to halt the praises and head on straight to other things you can do besides admire the captivating beauty of the Venetian capital. Day trips are some of them.

There are quite plenty of day trips from Venice by train, but we have narrowed our list down to the best places that only take under an hour on a train journey to assure ample time for exploring. Let’s hop in!

Table of Contents

Best Day Trips From Venice Under 1 Hour by Train

Here are the cities and towns for your best day trips from Venice by train in under an hour.

Distance : approx. 16 mi. (26 km.) Fastest travel time : 22 mins.

Hands down the easiest of all day trips from Venice, Treviso has become a hub of art and culture in the Veneto region over the past years – with good reason. For starters, there’s the stunning 14th-century church of Santa Caterina, now Treviso’s Civic Museum, where you can view exquisite frescoes and paintings of famous Venetian artists, as well as fascinating collections of antiquities.

Treviso is also recognized as the original production area of Prosecco wine and Italian chicory (radicchio), and purportedly the birthplace of one of Italy’s most famous desserts – tiramisù.

Home to a large university and the headquarters of Italian fashion brands Geox and Benetton, bicycle maker Pinarello, and appliance maker De’Longhi, Treviso is also hailed by many as the friendliest town in all of Italy .

Distance : 18 mi. (29 km.) Fastest travel time: 17 mins.

The city of fun! Jesolo offers just that – fun, fun, and more fun!

This is a city your whole family will enjoy because it has a bit of everything – from gelaterias to theme parks like New Jesolandia, Gommapiuma, Caribe Bay, and Tropicarium Park to fashion and jewelry shops… and the 80,000-sq.m. go-kart area. Not to mention the beach!

While most of Jesolo’s tourism is in the summer, this seaside resort city is fun to visit any season of the year for adults and children alike. Truly one of the must-not-miss day trips from Venice!

Distance : approx. 21 mi. (34 km.) Fastest travel time: 15 mins.

Considered one of Italy’s main art cities ( città d’arte ), Padua boasts Roman ruins and medieval walls as well as Renaissance frescoes and Liberty style architecture.

It’s best to start your day tour at the city’s centro storico , which is a pastiche of these millenia-old styles of art and architecture that make this Italian city stand out from the rest.

It is worth noting that Italy’s most famous poet , Dante Alighieri, lived in Padua. The city is also the setting of Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew .

4. Abano Terme

Distance: approx. 26 mi. (42 km.) Fastest travel time : 25 mins.

With its hectares of luxurious natural parks and healing mud and hot springs, Abano Terme is a great destination for your ultimate relaxation goals. The town’s soothing thermal baths and Roman spas are believed to have curative mineral-rich waters from ancient springs.

In addition, this beautiful albeit small spa town is not short of interesting sights, art, and architecture.

A truly unique experience awaits you less than half an hour by train from Venice, so make sure to get a ticket to ride!

5. Portogruaro

Distance: approx. 34 mi. (54 km.) Fastest travel time : 37 mins.

Portogruaro can be considered a small version of Venice, thanks to the architectural style of its palaces. It is an ancient little town, elegant and steeped in history – just like its big sister Venice.

While it is dubbed the “City of the Porticoes,” Portogruaro is better-known for a good number of wines produced here and exported all over the world.

This charming little town isn’t touristy, but it offers plenty of attractions, including its numerous medieval churches and palaces, as well as the popular seaside resorts found here.

Don’t miss this day trip from Venice!

ALSO READ: 14 Best Non-Touristy Cities And Towns In Italy You Must Visit Before They’re Crowded

Distance: approx. 37 mi. (59 km.) Fastest travel time : 33 mins

One of Italy’s most underrated cities and Veneto’s often overlooked destinations, Rovigo offers a lot more than you may think.

While they may not be the same treasure trove of attractions you will find in its fellow Venetian neighbors, this ancient little city offers an array of activities and places to visit that make it worthy of a day trip from Venice.

Rovigo boasts one of the best collections of paintings in the region, so checking out the local art gallery is an absolute must when in the city. Rovigo’s luxurious palaces, the Duomo, and the historic old town also warrant a visit.

Distance : approx. 39 mi. (63 km.) Fastest travel time : 29 mins.

Vicenza is a thriving cosmopolitan city, admired by many for its rich history and culture. It houses numerous museums and art galleries, elegant Renaissance palaces, villas, churches, and piazzas.

The city of Vicenza, along with its 23 Palladian buildings, was given a UNESCO World Heritage designation in 1994. These works of Renaissance architect Andrea Palladio are probably what make Vicenza so well-known. However, the city is also recognized for its trade in precious metals, hence the moniker “City of Gold.”

Vicenza is a charming small town worth exploring with its history, art, and architecture. Best souvenir to buy will be a piece of jewelry, with some of the best Italian jewelry brands headquartered here such as Roberto Coin, FOPE, and Marco Bicego.

Distance : 54 mi. (87 km.) Fastest travel time : 45 mins.

Ferrara is best for walking around, with a well-preserved – and mostly car-free – historic center dating back to the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, including the old Jewish quarter.

A fantastic tourist destination located in the Emilia-Romagna region, Ferrara was a major reference point for artists, poets, and minstrels back in the day. It was the first modern city and one of the European capitals of culture, arts, politics, gastronomy.

The city is fairly easy to visit. Besides exploring on foot, you can also go biking on top of or alongside the city’s medieval walls.

A visit to Ferrara takes one to an authentic journey back in time. And any visit here is not complete without feasting on the mouth-watering local cuisine, so make sure to sample as many food as you can!

Distance : approx. 66 mi. (106 km.) Fastest travel time : 55 mins.

Although famously known as the setting of Shakespeare’s Rome and Juliet , the city of Verona’s symbol is the Arena di Verona, a Roman amphitheatre that serves as a reminder of the city’s wealth of Roman antiquities. Verona is actually nicknamed “Little Rome.”

The city’s history, incredible art and architecture, and fantastic food make Verona truly one of the best day trips from Venice by train. And while you’re there, don’t forget to touch Juliet’s breast for some good luck!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

Top Things to Do

Free Things to Do

Traveling With Kids

Best Museums to Visit

Guide to Carnevale

Top Venice Restaurants

Nightlife in Venice

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Marco Polo Airport Guide

Neighborhoods to Know

Venice's Vaporetto Transportation

Best Gondola Rides

Day Trips From Venice

Best Day Trips From Venice

Make Venice a Base for Exciting Day Trips in the Region

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

Venice is a beautiful city to visit, and certainly has enough attractions and diversions to keep you busy for at least several days to a week or more. But if you have the time and want a break from the canals of Venice, there are many excellent nearby options for day trips as well. The Veneto region holds interesting towns and cities outside Venice, most easily reached by public transportation.

Venice's Top Islands

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson 

Murano, Burano, and Torcello are the top three islands to visit on day trips from Venice. Murano is known as the island of glassmakers, Burano has canals lined with picturesque colored houses and is known for lace making , and Torcello is a green island where you can see Byzantine mosaics in the 7th-century Cathedral. 

• Getting There: From Fondamenta Nove, Vaporetto Number 41 or 42 to Murano, or Number 12 to Burano and Torcello.

Venice Lido

Venice Lido is a long strip of land off the Venice coast. The Lido is lined with beaches and is a good place for nightlife, shopping or to get away from the tourist crowds in Piazza San Marco. In early September, the Venice Film Festival is held on the Lido. There are shops, restaurants, bars, and hotels (often less expensive than in Venice) on Venice Lido, as well.

• Getting To the Lido: Vaporetto Number 1 from Piazza San Marco. Vaporetti run from other parts of Venice, too.
• Read more about going to the beach in Italy .

Venetian Villas on the Brenta Riviera

Along the Brenta Canal between Venice and Padua are a number of beautiful ancient villas, some designed by famous Renaissance architect Andrea Palladio. Although most can only be viewed from outside, some of the former gardens are now public parks and a few villas are open to visitors.

• Getting There: You can take a bus that runs from Venice (from Piazzale Roma) to Padua, stopping in Mira or Stra, although the best ways to visit are by boat or car.

Padua (Padova) is a walled city east of Venice. It has Europe's oldest botanical gardens, the Basilica di Sant’Antonio, and Scrovegni Chapel frescoes by Giotto. The gardens and Basilica are across town from the train station, a pleasant walk through the historic center.

• Getting to Padua: Trains from Venice to Padova take about half an hour and run frequently.

Treviso is a pleasant medieval town north of Venice with canals and alleyways running through its center. The defensive walls, town gates, and moat can still be seen. Treviso's center, a short walk from the train station, is a nice place for wandering or enjoying a drink in a cafe.

• Getting There: Trains from Venice to Treviso take about half an hour and run frequently.

Chioggia, a fishing port in the Venetian lagoon, is sometimes called "Little Venice." A wide pedestrian street lined with cafes and restaurants runs down the center of town to the port. Chioggia has a great morning seafood market, clock tower museum, and the Museum of the South Lagoon. Beaches are 2 km from the center. It's a nice place for relaxing and good for day trips to Venice in ​the summer.

• Getting to Chioggia: In summer, a direct tourist boat runs from Saint Mark's Square to Chioggia. At other times, vaporetti or train connections can take two hours.

Vicenza was an important city from the 15th through 18th centuries. Famous Renaissance architect Palladio was from Vicenza and he designed 23 of the buildings in the city, including Palazzo Barbaran da Porto that houses the Palladio museum. The Basilica Palladiana is considered by many to be Palladio's masterpiece. With a car, you can tour Palladian villas outside Vicenza.

• Getting to Vicenza: Trains from Venice to Vicenza take about forty-five minutes and run frequently.

Verona, sometimes called the Florence of the North, is famous for the house and balcony said to belong to Juliet in the Shakespeare story, "Romeo and Juliet." Verona has a 2,000-year-old Roman Arena where summer opera performances are held, a Roman bridge and a market square that was once the Roman Forum. Verona is one of Italy's most visited cities.

• Getting There: Trains from Venice to Verona take between 60 and 90 minutes.

Bassano del Grappa

Bassano del Grappa is a pretty medieval town below Monte Grappa on the Brenta River. Bassano del Grappa is known for its Alpine wooden bridge, grappa, and ceramics. It's a pleasant base for exploring the nearby Venetian villas, castles, towns, and attractions of the Veneto region.

• Getting There: Trains from Venice to Bassano del Grappa take about 90 minutes.

Original article by Martha Bakerjian.

Best Places to Go in Northern Italy's Veneto Region

Bassano del Grappa Travel Guide

Veneto Region of Northern Italy: Tourist Map With Cities

A Traveler's Guide to Chioggia

The Best Things to Do in Venice, Italy

Northern Italy's UNESCO World Heritage Sites and Cities

How to Save Money on Your Italian Vacation

How to Travel From Munich to Venice by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

The 15 Best Destinations in Italy

Murano: Planning Your Trip

Venice's Vaporetto Transportation System: A Complete Guide

10 Budget Travel Tips for Visiting Venice

Venice, Italy Guide: Planning Your Trip

Burano: Planning Your Trip

The Complete Guide to Bassano del Grappa, Italy

The Top 10 Things to Do with Kids in Venice

12 Top-Rated Day Trips from Venice

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated May 26, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

In addition to being one of the top tourist destinations in Italy – and in all Europe – Venice is also an ideal base for visiting more of Northern Italy's top attractions. Padua, Vicenza, and Verona are easy train rides away, and the magnificent Dolomites form a wall to the north. Thanks to Italy's high-speed trains, even Florence is within reach.

Few foreign tourists go beyond Venice into the part of the Veneto region known as Friuli-Venezia Giulia, nor do they explore the Palladian villas that lie to the northwest. But all these attractions weave closely into the story of Venice. Along the Adriatic coast to the east, you'll find the city's roots in the magnificent remains of towns from which early Christians fled from barbarian hordes before founding Venice.

You'll find suggestions for the best places to visit in this list of the top day trips from Venice.

1. Murano and Burano

3. cortina and the dolomite mountains, 5. florence, 7. brenta canal, 8. bassano del grappa, 9. villa barbaro, 10. aquileia cathedral, map of day trips from venice.

The closest and easiest day trip from Venice is to its islands of Murano and Burano, each a colorful mini-Venice with their canals and bridges, and each one a center for traditional Venetian art.

Murano is the home of Venice's glassblowing industry and has been ever since the glass furnaces were moved here to protect the city from fire. A darker purpose was to isolate the glass experts so they could not give away (or sell) the secrets that gave Venice the monopoly of fine glassware.

Farther away and isolated by distance, Burano was an island of fishermen, and their wives became expert lace makers, an art that survives today. Burano is especially colorful, with its brightly painted houses reflecting in the water.

An easy way to explore these islands is on a five-hour guided Murano Glass and Burano Lace Tour from Venice , which includes motorboat transport to the islands and visits to a glassblowing factory on Murano and lace makers on Burano. There's time to shop on both islands and to visit Burano's lace museum.

Beyond its romantic associations with the fictional Juliet, Verona is one of northern Italy's most beautiful and fascinating cities for sightseeing. The narrow stone-paved streets of its Centro Storico - historic center - are lined by Renaissance and earlier buildings, many of which show the distinct marks of Verona's long years as part of the Venetian Republic.

Arching over its streets are Roman gates, and in its center is one of the finest Roman arenas in existence. Lavishly decorated churches, a castle artfully repurposed as an art museum, and the house that commemorates Shakespeare's tragic heroine will more than fill a day here.

Verona is easy to reach by direct train from Venice, and the attractions of the historic center are within walking distance or a short bus ride from the rail station. Once in the center, you'll find the castle, Juliet's house, and the most significant churches all within an easy walk of the Roman Arena.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Verona

North of Venice rises a landscape that has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its grandeur, its history, and the way of life that survives in its mountain villages. Crowned by vast snowfields in the winter, these mountains are known for some of the top ski resorts in Italy , among them the famed Cortina d'Ampezzo.

High among the Dolomites are pristine mountain lakes that reflect their jagged rocky peaks, and tiny Alpine villages hide in the valleys that drop dramatically between ranges.

A good way to see this magnificent landscape and explore its villages is on a Dolomite Mountains and Cortina Small-Group Day Trip from Venice . The 8.5-hour trip is limited to eight people and guided by a local who shares the history and customs of the region as you travel. There's time for an espresso stop in the village of Pieve di Cadore, birthplace of the Renaissance painter Titian, to explore chic Cortina d'Ampezzo and even take a short hike along a mountain trail.

Or, for a more active experience, join a guided hike on footpaths in the Dolomites to learn more about local flora and fauna amid spectacular Alpine scenery.

Although the small city of Padua (Padova in Italian) is best known for the shrine and burial place of one of the world's favorite saints, it is known to art lovers for the extraordinary Scrovegni Chapel , completely lined inside by brilliantly colored frescoes painted by Giotto from 1303 to 1306.

Giotto was not the only major artist who worked here, and their works fill the city's churches. Inside the 13th-century Palazzo della Ragione is Europe's largest medieval hall, its walls covered by more frescoes.

Although the city's art and religious attractions get the most attention from tourists, don't overlook the outstanding collections in the Civic Museum, which include fourth-century mosaics and pre-Roman finds from as far back as the eighth century BC. You can reach Padua by train in anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Padua

The Renaissance, which inspired Venetian artists like Titian and the Bellini family to some of their greatest heights, began in Florence. Thanks to high-speed trains, you can get a sampling of the rich legacy of Florentine painters, sculptors, and architects on a day trip from Venice.

The city's most prominent – literally – attraction is Brunelleschi's towering dome on the great Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore . You could spend a day just enjoying all the art treasures in that complex, which includes the Baptistery with Gilberti's bronze reliefs; the graceful bell tower by Giotto; and a museum filled with masterpieces by Michelangelo, Donatello, and other masters.

These are not far from the train station, but a good way to see these and other attractions is with an independent Florence day trip from Venice by high-speed train that includes not only the train ticket, but access to the handy hop-on hop-off bus tour in Florence. With this, you can ride quickly between the top attractions and popular things to do, including the Ponte Vecchio and three world-famous art museums: the Uffizi Gallery , Accademia, and Bargello.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Florence

Between the attractions of Padua and Verona, Vicenza is often forgotten by tourists, but it's worth seeing for its multitude of buildings by the great 16th-century architect Andrea Palladio. His work, which has inspired architects ever since, was cited in naming the city a UNESCO World Heritage site .

Three of his major works are here. His masterpiece, the elegant Basilica Palladiana, forms one side of the main piazza, with its double row of colonnades. His last work, the Teatro Olimpico is a Renaissance version of the ancient Roman theaters, and with a clever optical illusion, it tricks your eyes into seeing a deep stage when it is actually very shallow.

Palladio's most recognized work to Americans is the villa La Rotunda, the inspiration for Thomas Jefferson's home at Monticello. The nearby Villa Valmarana is lavishly decorated in frescoes by Giambattista Tiepolo and his son.

• Read More: Best Tourist Attractions in Vicenza

The section of the River Brenta between Padua and its mouth at the Adriatic Sea in Venice has been canalized since the days of the Venetian Republic. Wealthy Venetian families built palaces along its shore, where they fled the city's heat in the summer.

The Brenta is still a popular place to go in the summer, when an excursion boat makes daily trips, stopping at palaces along the way. The favorite of these is in Stra, just outside Padua, where the 18th-century Villa Pisani (also called Villa Nazionale) sits amid splendid gardens.

The highlight of its 100-plus furnished rooms is the ballroom with its spectacular ceiling painting by Tiepolo in 1762. The villa has a distinguished history, having belonged to both Napoleon and later to the Hapsburg emperors. Be sure to try your luck in the world's most puzzling garden maze.

The Villa Widmann-Foscari-Rezzonico is worth visiting, as well. In the summer, you can cruise the canal between Padua and Venice or for a more active adventure, join a half-day guided bicycling tour along the canal, with a lunch stop in the waterside village of Dolo.

Frequent trains from Venice will take you north to the charming town of Bassano del Grappa, in the Dolomite foothills. The favorite landmark for photographers is the Ponte degli Alpini , a long covered bridge designed by Palladio.

The bridge was destroyed strategically in World War II by Italian partisans and later reproduced by Alpini soldiers. The Museo degli Alpini has memorabilia and photos from both world wars and of the famed mountain troops. In Piazza Garibaldi are the 13th-century Torre Civica and the even older Church of San Francesco , with 15th-century frescoes.

Bassano del Grappa has a long history as a pottery-making center, and you'll see examples of it in shops near the bridge. In a former convent cloister, the Museo Civico has more on the craft's history, and you can see more examples at the rococo Palazzo Sturm.

Not far from Asolo, Villa Barbaro may well be the most perfect marriage of painting and architecture of any Italian villa. Andrea Palladio, who gave his name to an entire new style of architecture that is a reference point for builders even today, designed a number of country estates and summer palaces in the 16th century.

For this one, however, he worked with the artist Veronese, and the lavish interior they created together showcases the genius of each. What appear to be architectural details are actually trompe l'oeil frescoes, creating sculpture, columns, balustrades, even windows, where none exist and adding a playful touch along with a sense of light and spaciousness.

This is often called the zenith of artistic achievement in Veneto's villas. If you can see only one of Palladian's villas, which were accorded a UNESCO World Heritage listing, make it Villa Barbaro.

On the grounds are the Tempietto, Palladio's only church outside Rome, and a carriage museum.

Address: Via Cornuda 7, Maser Treviso

St. Mark is thought to have spread Christianity to Roman Aquileia, one of the greatest and wealthiest cities of ancient Italy. Its basilica has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its major role in the evangelization of central Europe, as well as for its astonishing fourth-century mosaics.

The star attraction of the ninth-century basilica is from the earlier one that Attila the Hun burned in AD 425. Discovered in 1909, the fourth-century floors are the largest Paleo-Christian mosaic floor known in Western Europe. But it's not just their sheer magnitude that will fascinate you: the bird and animal designs are so intricate and detailed that you can see the expressions on the faces of people and animals they depict.

As if this weren't enough reason to visit, below the sanctuary is a ninth-century crypt whose walls and ceiling are covered in Byzantine-style frescoes from the 12th century. Behind the church is a moving cemetery from World War I, beyond which is the excavated Roman harbor, the partially reconstructed Forum , and the Museo Paleocristiano with sculptures, mosaics, glass, and other Roman artifacts.

Location: Località Monastero, Aquileia

The Friuli region stretches northeast from Venice through scenic vine-covered foothills into the Dolomite Alps . Scattered in this lovely countryside are small towns and villages that seem remote from the busy tourist centers, and where you can gain a feel for the Italian countryside and rural way of life.

Don't miss beautiful Cividale del Friuli, hanging on the edge of a ravine of erosion-sculpted limestone cliffs and spanned by the graceful arched Devil's Bridge. Among its buildings from the Middle Ages, you'll find an eighth-century Longobard temple , a passageway leading to a Celtic burial chamber from the third century BC, and a masterful silver altarpiece in the cathedral .

Farther north, the towns lie amid ever-taller craggy mountains. The area is perfect for a leisurely driving tour when you tire of crowded city streets.

A 90-minute drive from Venice , Asolo is a popular Sunday outing for local families, who stroll the arcaded streets to admire the frescoed houses and enjoy a meal in one of its restaurants. Queen Caterina of Cyprus was once given Asolo in exchange for the island of Cyprus, and later, Asolo was a favorite retreat of poet Robert Browning and other artists and literary figures.

You can find mementos of them in the A Museo Civico, housed in the elegant 15th-century Loggia della Ragione. From Queen Caterina's castle, Castello della Regina, you'll get views across the city and surrounding hills. A trip to Asolo can easily be combined with a visit to the Palladian Villa Barbaro and a stop to see the impressive fortifications of Castelfranco .

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

More Places to Visit on Day Trips from Venice: For a relaxing small-town experience, refreshing after the busy streets of Venice, travel the short distance to Treviso , often called "Little Venice" for its canals and lion-guarded gates. The gardens at Villa Barbarigo at Valsanzibio, south of Padua, were built for a wealthy Venetian family, and are some of the most beautiful gardens in Italy .

Exploring More of Northern Italy: East of Venice, and not on Italy's main tourist routes, Trieste shows its history as a part of Austria, with its architecture reminiscent of Hapsburg palaces. And from here, you can make day trips into neighboring Slovenia. But luring tourists in the other direction are all the things to do around Lake Garda , an especially popular place to go for families.

More on Italy

9 easy day trips from Venice by train you can’t miss

If you're heading to Venice and have a few extra days on hand, plan some sightseeing adventures with this list of easy day trips.

• 1 Artistic marvels in Padua
• 2 Verona between romance and history
• 3 Treviso, the Little Venice
• 4 Vicenza and its architectural treasures
• 5 Bassano del Grappa and its historic distilleries
• 6 Brescia, the town with tho cathedrals
• 7 Ferrara, the Renaissance gem
• 8 Bologna, the ultimate foodie escape
• 9.1 Pssst… Pin this article for future reference and get in touch if you have any questions about your day trips from Venice!

Ah, Venice! No matter how much time I spend in this beautiful city, it’s never enough. But hey, I get it, some of you might want to explore further afield once you’ve seen all the top sights. After all, Italy has such a rich and diverse heritage that once you’re here you want to cover as many sights as possible, right?

There are some great places near Venice that are well worth a visit, each a treasure trove of unique experiences. From the artistic wonders of Padova to the gastronomic delights of Bologna, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

Obviously, one day won’t be enough to see everything, but you’ll be sure to leave with a ton of travel memories and plenty of reasons to come back soon.

This article only features destinations within a two-hour train ride from Venice (except for the last one). After all, you don’t want to spend most of your day trip traveling, right? 

At the end of the page, you’ll find a link to my guide to train travel in Italy, which will help you navigate the Italian railway system. This way, you can easily book train tickets for your sightseeing adventures.

So, these are my suggestions for some great day trips from Venice.

Artistic marvels in Padua

Padua is my top choice when it comes to side trips from Venice. It’s super quick to reach and offers many beautiful things to explore. 

The main attraction is the Scrovegni Chapel, where Giotto painted stunning frescoes listed among the most important works of Western art. 

You can see one of the oldest universities in Europe, whose faculty once included Galileo Galilei. This is also where a woman got an academic degree for the first time ever.

Other highlights include the world’s very first botanical garden dating from 1545, and Prato della Valle, one of the biggest squares in Europe.

Padova is also a deeply religious city and its Basilica of Saint Anthony is a major pilgrimage site in Italy. Don’t miss a visit for the stunning architecture and pay homage to the saint’s relics.

How to get from Venice to Padova by train: it’s an easy half-hour train ride using either Trenitalia (opt for Regionale Veloce or Frecciarossa trains) or Italo.

Val’s tip: Caffé Pedrocchi may be the most famous historic venue in Padua but there are many other spots to explore: try gelato at Gelato da Ruggero and stock up on food souvenirs at Drogheria ai Due Catini d’Oro.

Read more: 1 day itinerary in Padua

Verona between romance and history

If chasing your inner Romeo and Juliet fantasies has always been your secret dream, then you should visit Verona.

Here, you can see all the iconic sites associated with the story of the two Shakespearian lovers, including the famous balcony and the tomb of Juliet, hidden in a 13th-century convent.

Verona offers also a wealth of fascinating attractions to explore, all reflecting the city’s vibrant history. For instance, Castelvecchio is the city’s medieval heart, featuring a museum and panoramic ramparts, while the Scaligeri Tombs are considered one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in northern Italy.

A must-see in Verona is the Arena, built before Rome’s Colosseum and now the best-preserved Roman amphitheater in the world. Today, it serves as a fascinating open-air opera house.

For a taste of Renaissance landscaping, be sure to visit the Giardino dei Giusti, a beautiful garden that first opened its doors to the public in the 16th century.

How to get from Venice to Verona by train:  it takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes to get from Venice to Verona. You can use either Trenitalia (Frecciarossa or Regionale Veloce) and Italo trains.

Val’s tip:  one of my favorite things to do in Verona is visiting Juliet’s Club, where I can be one of Juliet’s secretaries for a few hours! I wrote about it here .

Read more: What to see in Verona in 2 days

Treviso, the Little Venice

Treviso is a charming town often overshadowed by more renowned cities in Veneto, yet it boasts a wealth of attractions. It’s an excellent choice if you’re seeking a change of pace after the bustling crowds of Venice.

Within its historic walled center, you’ll find Renaissance palaces, bridges, and canals that earned Treviso the nickname “Little Venice”. 

Start your exploration from Piazza dei Signori, the main square full of cute shops, cafés and historic buildings. Among them is the imposing Palazzo dei Trecento, where communal assemblies took place back in the day.

Key highlights of your visit include a multi-domed Cathedral featuring a beautiful Annunciation by Titian and the Church of San Nicolò, where you can see the first pair of spectacles ever depicted in a work of art. And don’t miss the Treviso fish market, charmingly located on an islet in the town center.

How to get from Venice to Treviso by train:  the train journey is about 30 minutes with either Trenitalia (Regionale Veloce or Regionale) or Italo.

Val’s tip:  if there’s one in place in Italy where you should feast on Tiramisù and glasses of chilled Prosecco, that’s Treviso. This town is the birthplace of the famous Italian dessert (the restaurant that invented it is still there – Le Beccherie ), while Prosecco is produced in the hills just outside town.

Vicenza and its architectural treasures

Vicenza’s primary appeal lies undoubtedly in its architectural wonders. This is the city where the 16th-century architect Andrea Palladio – the guy who influenced architectural standards worldwide for the past 500 years – crafted exquisite villas and palaces, earning Vicenza a coveted spot on the UNESCO World Heritage list. 

Thanks to Palladio’s influential work, Vicenza stands as an extraordinary open-air museum. The most impressive sites include La Rotonda, whose design inspired the White House, and the Olympic Theatre, where you can see the world’s oldest surviving stage set still in use.

The town is also renowned for its jewelry-making tradition, so make sure to include also a visit to the Jewellery Museum, the first of its kind in Italy. 

How to get from Venice to Vicenza by train : it’s a 45-minute journey with either Trenitalia (Frecciarossa or Regionale Veloce trains) or Italo.

Val’s tip: if your day trip to Vicenza falls between April and September, be sure to enjoy an aperitivo at  Terrazza della Basilica , a fabulous panoramic café at the top of the Basilica Palladiana!

Bassano del Grappa and its historic distilleries

For a change of scenery, consider heading to Bassano del Grappa, a charming little town nestled in the Venetian Pre-Alps. 

Palladio also left his mark here, specifically on the town’s most iconic sight – the Alpini Bridge. This wooden covered bridge spans the river Brenta and was reconstructed by the Renaissance architect in the 16th century after being destroyed multiple times.

Bassano is renowned for producing Italy’s strong alcoholic drink, grappa. Two excellent places to delve into the world of this famous Italian distillate are Grapperia Nardini, the country’s oldest distillery, and the Poli Grappa Museum.

Fans of grappa include Ernest Hemingway, who served as a voluntary driver for the American Red Cross here during World War I in 1918. This villa is now a museum dedicated to the writer. 

How to get from Venice to Bassano del Grappa by train:  the journey is about 1 hour and 15 minutes with the Regional trains provided by Trenitalia.

Val’s tip: don’t leave without trying a“Mezzo Mezzo”, the local aperitivo.

Brescia, the town with tho cathedrals

Often overshadowed by its bigger sister Milan, Brescia is a beautiful town in Lombardy that you can easily visit on a day trip from Venice.

Brescia and its province are home to 5 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, a testament to the town’s rich cultural heritage. 

To begin with, Brescia boasts one of the largest archaeological sites in northern Italy. Trust me, as soon as you see the Roman Forum, you’ll think you’re in Rome.

More surprises await you at the stunning Santa Giulia museum complex, featuring a remarkable array of attractions spanning over 2,000 years of history. A highlight is the famous Cross of Desiderius decorated with 211 gemstones.

Brescia also boasts elegant historic squares with lots of lovely cafés, a splendid opera house, a large medieval castle, and two fabulous cathedrals, all of which make it an ideal day trip destination from Venice.

How to get from Venice to Brescia by train:  the journey time is about 1 hour and 50 minutes with Trenitalia (Frecciarossa trains) and Italo.

Val’s tip:  if you visit in June, you might see the Mille Miglia, the world’s most famous vintage car race. Crews come from all over the globe and the itinerary covers seven Italian regions, from Brescia to Rome and back.  

Read more: A day trip to Brescia

Ferrara, the Renaissance gem

Your day trips from Venice could also take you to the Emilia Romagna region, more precisely to the charming town of Ferrara.

The history of this town is closely tied to the powerful Este family, who ruled it between the 13th and 15th centuries. They transformed Ferrara into a thriving cultural center that attracted artists such as Piero Della Francesco, Jacopo Bellini, and Andrea Mantegna, making sightseeing here particularly fascinating. 

Its historic center is just adorable, surrounded by ancient defensive walls and filled with charming cafes and captivating streets like Via delle Volte and Corso Ercole I d’Este, considered Europe’s longest street without shops.

Notable attractions in Ferrara include Castello Estense (one of the few castles in Europe still surrounded by a water-filled moat), the superb Palazzo Diamanti, and the San Giorgio Cathedral with its stunning marbled facade. 

For a hidden gem, pay a visit to the Monastery of Sant’Antonio in Polesine and ask the residing nuns to see the chapel, where you can find some wonderful frescoes from Giotto’s school.

How to get from Venice to Ferrara by train:  Italo makes it easy to get to Ferrara in 1 hour. Alternatively, you could also take the Frecciarossa (1h) or Regionale Veloce (1h30min) trains from Trenitalia.

Val’s tips : Ferrara is extremely bike-friendly, offering numerous interesting cycle paths to explore. Consider renting a bike for your day trip.

Read more: Things to do in Ferrara, Europe’s first modern city

Bologna, the ultimate foodie escape

Since we are talking about Emilia Romagna, how about treating yourself to a full day of food and wine experiences in Italy’s culinary capital? 

Bologna boasts numerous sights that can’t be explored in a single day, from Europe’s oldest university to 40 km of UNESCO-listed porticos. Therefore, why not plan your day trip around one of the town’s best assets – food! 

Start by exploring the local specialties at Bologna’s ancient food markets—Quadrilatero and Mercato di Mezzo. Then, take a seat at one of the communal tables of L’Osteria del Sole , the world’s oldest tavern dating back to 1465. They don’t serve food, just drinks, so your market shopping will come in handy. 

For a more hands-on experience, consider trying your hand at making tortellini and tagliatelle by participating in a cooking class at the home of a local sfoglina (that’s what they call the past-making ladies in Bologna). 

If you are travelling with kids, a gelato-making class at the  Carpigiani Gelato Museum  is also a great idea (it’s a 30-minute bus drive from Bologna train station).

How to get from Venice to Bologna by train:  it takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes with Trenitalia (Frecciarossa or Regionale Veloce trains) and Italo.

Val’s tip:  every October, Bologna hosts the Tortellino Festival, an excellent opportunity to sample all the different varieties of the town’s famous food.

An art tour of Florence

I know many of you are interested in day trips from Venice to Florence, so here’s an idea.

But first, let me just say that while it’s technically possible to organize a day trip from Venice to Florence by train, I wouldn’t recommend it. The Tuscan capital has so much to offer that it rightly deserves a dedicated trip. 

Nevertheless, if you decide to go for it, you might want to focus on the Uffizi Gallery, Michelangelo’s David, and the complex of Florence Cathedral (including the fabulous views from Brunelleschi’s dome). Don’t forget to indulge in a schiacciata from L’Antico Vinaio and a gelato from Gelateria della Passera between sights.

How to get from Venice to Florence by train:  it takes 2 hours and 15 minutes on the Trenitalia Frecciarossa or Italo trains, so better leave Venice at dawn to make the most of your day trip

Tip:  carefully choose which parts of Florence you want to see and pre-book all the tickets and arrival time slots to avoid spending most of your day trip standing in line.

Pssst… Pin this article for future reference and get in touch if you have any questions about your day trips from Venice!

Share this article on:

Grazie mille for reading My Italian Diaries!

If you’ve enjoyed the blog and found my articles useful, you can treat me to a virtual coffee to support the creation of new content and the site’s running costs. Just click on the button below and sprinkle a little virtual caffeine magic my way. Cheers to you!

Things to do in Ferrara, Europe’s first modern city

What to see in Caserta beyond the Royal Palace

Leave a comment cancel reply.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

An Italian travel writer in love with my country. Having travelled widely across the globe, I realized there was more to explore closer to home. My Italian Diaries is the place where I share itineraries, activities and off-the-beaten-path places to help you experience the best of Italy like a local!

Get the latest news, fresh posts, and exclusive unblogged stories from Italy delivered straight to your inbox each month.

I consent to the processing of my personal data as per the Privacy Policy

You’ve just been sent an email that contains a confirmation link. Just click on it to finalize your registration.

My Italian Diaries is the place where I share with you stories, photos and useful tips from my travels around Italy. I hope you will enjoy reading it and that my stories will inspire you to organize your next trip to my beautiful country.

Let's collaborate Collaboriamo Contact

Home » Blog » Italy Travel Guides » The Best Day Trips from Venice – Discover Northern Italy

The Best Day Trips from Venice – Discover Northern Italy

Last Updated on March 14, 2024 by Jo Fitzsimons

Our travel content is reader supported. We may earn a small commission from links in this article (no cost to you).

The floating city of Venice has long been north-eastern Italy’s most famous destination. And rightly so. With its winding canals, grand palaces, and luxurious piazzas, Venice has earned its place high on many travellers’ bucket lists. So, why would you want to leave the city that is the destination?

It might seem like a crazy idea at first, but gliding down the Grand Canal in a gondola isn’t the only reason to visit this captivating region of Italy . From the ancient city of Padua to the towering Dolomite mountains, the turquoise waters of Lake Garda to the rolling hills of the sparkling Prosecco wine region, there’s so much more to see and explore. And thanks to Italy’s high-speed rail network, so many amazing destinations are reachable on day trips from Venice.

So, we urge you to leave behind the busy streets of Venice for a day and check out some of these great Italian destinations. It will make your trip even more memorable. Related: 10 Things NOT To Do In Venice (And 10 To Do Instead)

NEW: Venice visitor fees apply from April 2024

Table of Contents

1. Murano, Burano and Torcello Islands

Visiting the nearby islands of Murano, Burano and Torcello is the most popular day trip from Venice. The charm of it lies not just in the ease of the trip (these islands are very are close to Venice ), it’s also how different they are, complete with their own style, architecture and sights. Murano is famous for being the island where Venetian glass is produced. You can see a glass blowing demonstration then pick up some gifts to take home.

On Burano, you have to have your camera ready because the bright shades of the local houses will have you snapping happy. Burano is also famous for lace. Meanwhile, Torcello holds more of the Venetian traditional sights you might expect from the Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta Byzantine church to the Ponte del Davolo bridge with no sides (parapets) – one of only two such bridges in Venice. (The other is on Venice island, details here: 21 Most Popular Places to Visit in Venice, Italy ).

How to visit: There are several ways to visit the islands on a day trip from Venice. If you only have half a day, Murano and Burano are a popular combination. These are my suggestions:

• Buy a vaporetto pass and visit independently (from €25 for a day-pass). Tip: Buying a pass will be cheaper and easier than single tickets, which cost €9.50.
• Book this Guided Tour of Murano, Burano and Torcello Islands (from €25, 6.5 – 7.5 hrs) – it includes a glass factory tour.
• Book this Guided Tour of Murano and Burano (from €20, 4.5 – 5 hrs) – it also includes a glass factory tour.
• Book the Hop On Hop Off Boat (from €25 for 24 hours) – this boat stops at Burano, Murano and Torcello. Book the 48 hours pass and you can explore Venice, too.
• Take a private water taxi : you can find boat taxis easily in Venice but they are expensive. Expect to pay around €125-€150 one-way to Burano only.
• Take a private guided tour of Murano island – includes glass blowing demonstration. Find out more about our Italy tours .

The fascinating city of Treviso sits just 26 km inland from Venice, yet it is often overlooked in favour of its better-known neighbour. But Treviso is certainly worth a visit in its own right. Luckily, it’s one of the easiest day trips from Venice.

Treviso is fairly small (compared to Venice) but still has plenty to do and explore in a day, from visiting its historic palaces and medieval city walls to wandering around the maze of pretty canals and narrow cobbled streets. The city is perfect for a peaceful day away from the hustle and bustle of busy Venice. 

For Italian food-lovers, Treviso is a must-visit. The city is home to the restaurant where the famous Italian dessert tiramisu was first invented. Head to Ristorante Le Beccherie to try their classic tiramisu, which still uses the traditional recipe, or their contemporary tiramisu, which has received a slight update and is even better (in my opinion at least).

Want to learn more? Check out our guide to the best things to do in Treviso .

How to travel from Venice to Treviso: From Venice’s Venezia Santa Lucia station, you can easily jump on a regional train to Treviso central station. Both stations are located within the centre of each city, making it easy to do. The regional trains take between 30-40 minutes to get to Treviso from Venice and cost just €3.80 (one way). You can check schedules, prices, and book tickets on Trainline. (This is the website I use to book train travel).

New Tour: We’ve just added a wonderful new food and wine tour to our tour itineraries: Radicchio Rosso di Treviso and Tiramisu tasting From Venice , this half-day tour includes a visit to a radish farm followed by a walking tour and tiramisu tasting in Treviso. Contact us for more details.

3. Prosecco Wine Region

Travel just a little further north of Treviso and you’ll reach one of northern Italy’s true hidden gems, the Prosecco Hills.

Sitting between the towns of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene in the province of Treviso, you’ll discover the rolling vineyards and charming family-owned wineries responsible for producing the best Prosecco in all of Italy –  Prosecco Superior DOCG .

A day sipping the highest-quality Italian sparkling wine in the Prosecco Hills is one of the best day tours from Venice for wine lovers. You can visit the wineries, learn about the winemaking process, and sample plenty of delicious Prosecco. You can even pair your Prosecco with locally produced cheeses and cured meats. Plus don’t miss the region’s unique  Prosecco vending machine  perched on the top of a hill in the middle of the vineyards.

How to take a wine tasting tour of Italy’s Prosecco Region: We offer full and half day Prosecco tours (from €250 per group for 4 or 7 hrs). It’s easy to reach the Prosecco Hills from Venice to join a tour – jump on one of the regular direct trains between Venezia Santa Lucia station and Conegliano. The journey takes around one hour and costs as little as €6.50 (each way). Book with Trainline . We will meet you at the station, take you wine tasting and have you back in time to return to Venice for dinner. We also offer pick-up from Venice.

Find out more: Our Prosecco Tours | 10 Expert Tips For Planning Wine Tasting in Prosecco .

Best-known as the setting of Shakespeare’s renowned romantic tragedy, Romeo and Juliet, the historic city of Verona is one of the most beautiful and interesting places to visit in northern Italy’s Veneto region. It sits just 100km west of Venice and is small enough to visit on a day trip from the floating city.

Verona is packed with amazing historic architecture, including a 14th-century medieval castle and a Roman amphitheatre which is older and arguably better preserved than Rome’ s Colosseum. On a day trip to Verona, you can take a romantic walk along the Adige River, drink Aperol Spritz in one of the city’s piazzas, and leave a love letter in the courtyard underneath Juliet’s balcony. And if you stay into the evening, see if you can catch some live opera or a concert at Verona Arena.

Visiting Verona? Check out the best things to do in Verona , Italy.

Getting from Venice to Verona: There are regular trains between Venezia Santa Lucia and Verona Porta Nuova stations each day. The direct train journey takes 1 hr 15 minutes and costs approx. €10 (each way). You can check details and book on Trainline .

Popular tours and tickets:

• Buy the Verona Card (€20) for entry to the city monuments, including the Verona Arena.
• Book the Verona Hop On Hop Off City Sightseeing Bus as a great way to get around and see the sights in one day.

5. Lake Garda

Lake Garda is one of the largest and most popular lakes in all of Italy, known for its crystal clear waters and variety of charming lakeside towns.

There’s plenty to do in and around the lake for every type of traveller. If you’d rather stay on land, you can explore the charming lakeside towns, enjoy a gelato on the docks, browse the huge weekly markets, or have a fun day out at Movieland theme park and Caneva Aquapark.

Or if being on the water is your thing, you can hire a boat for a few hours and head out to explore the lake. Most boats are self-drive  (you don’t need a license)  and you can take them pretty much anywhere on the lake, including anchoring somewhere to jump into the water for a swim. You can usually take your own food and drinks on the boat to enjoy too (just make sure you have a designated boat driver – there are some rules!).

Getting from Venice to Lake Garda: You can take the train from Venezia Santa Lucia to  Peschiera del Garda  or Desenzano del Garda on the south of Lake Garda. The journey takes around 1 hr 30minutes by direct high-speed train and costs approx €12 (each way). From Desenzano del Garda, you can catch a 30 minute bus to  Sirmione , another of the most popular towns on Lake Garda.

The towns of Peschiera del Garda and Desenzano del Garda on the south of Lake Garda sit just a short distance from Verona. The slower regional trains connect Lake Garda and Venice via Verona. So, if you’re really focused, you could just about squeeze both destinations into one (albeit long) day trip from Venice.

Tours of Lake Garda: We offer day a one-day private tour of Lake Garda. Find out more: Our Italy Tours .

Padua may not be as well known as some other northern Italian cities, but that’s what makes it one of the best day trips from Venice. Located just 40km west of Venice, Padua is one of the oldest cities in the region and is home to many fascinating historic sites and attractions.

On a day trip to Padua, you can see the stunning frescoes that sparked the Italian Renaissance, walk in the footsteps of Gallelio at one of the oldest universities in the world, and take a traditional Burchiello boat cruise to see the luxurious villas of the Brenta Canal.

Don’t forget to stop for a proper Italian coffee at one of Italy’s most famous historic coffee shops, Caffe Pedrocchi . Pedrocchi was once known as ‘the cafe without doors’ due to it being open 24/7 for a large part of its history.

Getting from Venice to Padua : Direct trains run regularly between Venice and Padua every day. The train takes 30 minutes to 45 minutes depending which train you catch, and costs around €5 to €11 (each way). Tip: search for Padova (which is the Italian word for Padua). You can check tickets with Trainline .

Want to know more about Padua? Read our guide to the best things to do in Padua .

Tours of Padua: We also offer day a one-day private tour of Padua. Find out more: Our Italy Tours . Otherwise, there is an excellent Boat Cruise tour from Venice to Padua that visits the small towns and grand villas along the route(from €119).

7. Cortina & The Dolomite Mountains

The Dolomites are a large mountain range that spreads right across northern Italy and forms part of the Southern Limestone Alps. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Dolomites are famous for their unique landscapes and breathtaking scenery. And with part of the mountain range lying within the Veneto region, it’s possible to take a Dolomites day tour from Venice.

Cortina d’Ampezzo is the easiest destination in the Dolomites to reach from Venice in a day. The charming Alpine town makes a great base for exploring. There are loads of great hiking trails around the mountains and lakes close to Cortina. Or, if you’re feeling a little more adventurous, you can hire a mountain bike for the day.

Once you’ve finished exploring, cosy up in a mountain hut and enjoy some local wine and produce while soaking in the stunning panoramic views. The Dolomites are known for their rich culinary traditions. So be sure to try as much food as you can. You’ll have earned it after your hike.

And if you’re visiting during the winter, Cortina is a renowned ski destination. Bet you didn’t realise you could take a skiing day trip from Venice?

How to get from Venice to the Dolomites: The Dolomites are a little further away than the other Venice day trips on this list, but it’s certainly still doable in one day. Taking a bus from Venice to Cortina d’Ampezzo is the easiest way to visit. The bus takes around 2 hrs 30minutes and costs €12 (each way).

Once in the Dolomites, there’s a local bus network to get around. Alternatively, we are happy to offer a private tour of the Dolomites from Venice . Just sit back and let us do all the planning.

If you think Venice is opulent, wait until you visit Vicenza. To give you a hint of what to expect, Vicenza is known as the City of Palladio after the Italian architect, Andrea Palladio. Famous for his wow-worthy palaces and elegant villas, the city is filled with architecture to rival the likes of Venice and Rome .

One of Vincenza’s highlights is the Olympic Theatre (Teatro Olimpico), Palladio’s last work of Rennaisance grandeur, built between 1580 and 1585. (Tip: it’s a theatre, not an Olympic sports stadium). The UNESCO World Heritage Villa Rotonda and Museo Civico di Palazzo Chiericati should also be on your list. If you have a car, check out the nearby Colli Berici hills, which provide a great backdrop to the city as well as a countryside escape.

Or perhaps you’re escaping the tourists of Venice, in which case, head to Piazza dei Signori for aperitivo (pre-dinner drinks and snacks). And, speaking of snacks, if you want to get truly local, order up some Baccalà alla Vicentina, cod steeped in a garlic and anchovy sauce.

How to visit Vicenza from Venice: you can take a direct train from Venice Santa Lucia Station to Vicenza. It takes 45 minutes on the fast train (around €15 one-way) or 1hr 15 on the slower train (around €7 one way). You can check the schedule on Trainline . We offer a private tour to Vicenza from Venice if you prefer.

I’ve added Trieste to this list for two reasons. First, it’s a beautiful city in the northeast of Italy. Secondly, we get a lot of queries from people who have visited Trieste, hoping to do some Prosecco tasting, only to realise it’s around 3 hrs away from the vineyards. Fear not, it is do-able, and we have written specifically about how to visit the Prosecco region from Trieste . Where there is a (wine) will, there is a way!

Otherwise, if you’re simply in Venice, looking to take a day trip to Trieste, on the Slovenian border, it is just about do-able in a day, by train. Within Trieste, you’ll be met with a blend of city sights and coastal views over the Gulf of Trieste. Don’t miss Piazza Unità d’Italia, a St Marks-style square, and Miramare Castle, complete with stunning panoramic sea views. Looking to relax? The Rive waterfront promenade is the perfect spot for a slow stroll.

How to visit Trieste from Venice: The train from Venice Santa Lucia station to Trieste takes around 2 hrs each way. This is by taking the fast train (around €16 one-way). There is a slower train that takes 3 hrs but you really don’t want to take that for a day trip, unless the point of the trip is to sit on the train. Once again, I recommend Trainline for tickets.

10. Amarone wine region

Love wine? We do, too. And, while Prosecco is our top choice, Amarone – a bold, full-bodied premium red wine from Venteto region of Italy, comes a close second. Like Prosecco, Amarone is a wine region that is great for taking a wine tasting tour. The region is simply stunning with rolling vineyards, historic castles and cutesy villages.

How to visit the Amarone wine region: Located west of Verona, it is best to visit with a tour that will take you to a few local wineries. Several tours depart from Verona. Otherwise, we’re excited to tell you we’ve just launched a new tour from Venice – tasting in the Amarone DOCG region with local food pairing, followed by a 2-hour visit at one of Veneto’s best thermal spas. Contact us for more details.

Map of day trips from Venice

You’ll find all of these day trip destinations on our Map of Venice and the Prosecco Region .

So, that’s our guide to the best day trips from Venice. Got any questions? Leave a comment below.

Related Articles:

• 21 Most Popular Places to Visit in Venice, Italy
• How To Get To Venice From The Airport
• Where to Stay in Venice, Italy
• How to Get to the Prosecco Region Italy

Leave a comment Cancel reply

15 Brilliant Day Trips from Venice

Looking for the best day trips from Venice? Read on to discover the top places in Italy you can explore in a day. 

Pals, it’s no secret that Venice – the breathtaking capital city of the Veneto region, built on a lagoon from the Adriatic Sea – is one of my favourite destinations in Europe. 

Renaissance and gothic palaces line the emerald canals, and picturesque bridges connect everything. It’s truly magical. 

While visiting Venice is best done over a few days, if you’re looking to take a day trip outside of the city, there are so many stunning options that you might feel quite overwhelmed.

Not to worry. That’s exactly why I’ve written this guide to the very best Venice day trips. From waterparks and galleries to historic sites and culture, I’ve covered it all.

The Best Day Trips From Venice 

Murano & burano.

First up: One of the most popular Venice day trips. And for good reason.

Murano and Burano are two vibrant islands floating in the Venetian Lagoon in northern Italy near Torcello. These islands are picturesque, featuring brightly coloured homes all along their canals. In other words – you’ve likely seen them on the ‘Gram.

Murano is well-known for its glass, while Burano shines in lace-making, so you’ll have plenty of opportunity to snag a souvenir. Plus there are some fascinating attractions to inspire any photographer, from majestic cathedrals to must-see bridges. 

Apart from a charming atmosphere, you can browse through Murano’s glass showrooms and shops. Or see local women basking in the sun while hand-crafting their Burano lace. 

How to Get There: It’s easy. Hop on a Vaporetto (water bus) service at Fondamente Nove. To reach Murano, take the 4.1, 4.2, 12 or 13 routes and then take the number 12 line from Murano to Burano. 

Average journey duration: About 15 minutes to Murano and 30 minutes to Burano. 

Hassle-free option: Book This Guided Tour  

They say, all roads lead to Rome , so it makes perfect sense to take a ride on one for your day trip from Venice. You’ll need to prepare yourself for a seriously long day, however, it’s worth the time and effort. 

Rome is gorgeous (gasps). Sprawling with classical architecture, elegant artwork, and lush gardens filled with fountains and delicious food, it’s any traveller’s dream come true. 

The grand Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, the Roman Forum, and a slew of museums and galleries are just some of the outstanding sights to adore. Rome may not have been built in one day, but you can see most of its sites in under 24 hours when following my epic one day in Rome guide.

How to Get There: Take a direct train from Venezia S. Lucia station to Roma Termini. Several high-speed trains from Venice to Rome also start from €10.90. 

Average journey duration: High-speed trains average around 3 hours and 43 minutes. Travelling with a direct Frecciarossa and Italo train will get you there in just 3 hours and 15 minutes. 

Florence 

A day trip to Florence from Venice is mandatory if you’re an arts and history lover. Florence was the birthplace of the Renaissance — so expect to be amidst some of the most significant artworks and an extravagant display of Italian culture and cuisine. 

See celebrated pieces by Michelangelo, Da Vinci, and Raphael in world-famous galleries such as the Uffizi Gallery. Then sample some of the best foods and wines, such as the traditional Tagliatelle Funghi Porcini e Tartufo (a mouthful, but a tasty one at that!). 

How to Get There: The quickest way would be by high-speed train. Trenitalia and Italo trains run from Venice’s Santa Lucia station to Santa Maria Novella station in Florence. Expect to pay no less than 43€.  

Average journey duration: 2 hours 16 mins

Trieste is a scenic port city between the Adriatic coast and Slovenia’s border. It’s a certified haven for coffee-holics, boasting home brands such as Illy and Hausbrandt. Apart from all the must-visit Viennese-style coffee houses, you can check out the exquisite historic square with sea views: Piazza Unità d’Italia. 

Get in with the locals by sampling some tantalising traditional dishes such as Prosciutto di San Daniele and Sauris smoked ham from renowned restaurants. Being a port city, you can explore some of the prettiest beaches, like the classic Ausonia. 

How to Get There: Your best bet is by bus from Tronchetto station to Autostazione in Trieste, which is quicker and cheaper than a train ride, costing only €10 – 13. 

Average journey duration: 2 hours 10 minutes

Dolomites 

If you’ve always wanted to explore the Dolomitic Alps, here’s your chance with a fantastic day trip to the Dolomites from Venice. 

The mighty Dolomite Mountains (a mesmerising UNESCO World Heritage Site) sit proudly on northeastern soil, with swirling clouds at its peaks, allowing you to absorb an ethereal scene. 

In winter, the Dolomites see heavy snowfall, offering sublime skiing opportunities. Then take up hiking, cycling, mountain climbing, and hang-gliding for the remainder of the year. 

How to Get There: The quickest way to make this journey is to get on a bus at Venezia – Tronchetto station to Falcade, then hop on a taxi to Dolomite, Veneto. 

Average journey duration: 3 hours by bus and another 15 minutes by taxi. 

Hassle-free option: Book This Full Day Tour

Padua 

Located in northern Italy’s Veneto region, Padua is a quaint and elegant city worth a visit. You can see why this has made my list as a bustling tourist destination and a famous Italian art city. 

Wallow in the marvellous religious history of this city that boasts majestic churches such as the 13th-century Basilica of St. Anthony or the renowned Scrovegni Chapel. 

Then, wander through the arcaded streets in the old town and swing by stylish cafés and boutiques. Finally, absorb the eclectic nightlife and culinary scene with scenic winery tours. 

How to Get There:  A direct train from Venice Santa Lucia station to Padua is the quickest and costs just €5. 

Average journey duration: 28 minutes

Another city in the Veneto region to visit is the enchanting Treviso. Boasting many canals, the Duomo, the Fontana delle Tette, and a Romanesque crypt, you won’t bore easily. 

Treviso is famous for being the original production area of the honey-suckle Prosecco wine (I recommend taking a wine tour , of course) and radicchio. After admiring the nude female torso of Fontana delle Tette , you can make your way to the atmospheric plaza of Piazza dei Signori, brimming with shops and cafés. 

Then stroll to the beautiful walls of Treviso for stunning scenery featuring intricate architecture, lush gardens and bridges overlooking canals. 

How to Get There: For €12, you can board a bus at Venezia, Piazzale Roma station to Treviso, Aeroporto.  

Average journey duration: 1 hour 10 minutes

Scaling down from the bustling cities to the picturesque town of Marostica might do you some good. Sitting in the province of Vicenza, this hidden jewel is loved for its local cherry variety and, interestingly, its human chess game. 

Adorned with beautiful mediaeval villages, historical landmarks and exuberant green hills, your camera’s bound to work over time. 

Sampling the traditional cuisine of Marostica should be at the top of your list. Osteria Madonnetta, Ristorante Hotel La Rosina, and Ristorante Cuori are excellent dining spots.  

How to Get There: The recommended means of travel is via train from Venezia S. Lucia station to Bassano Del Grappa for €6–13. 

Average journey duration: 1 hour +/- 30 minutes

Bassano del Grappa

Swoon! Bassano del Grappa is as pretty as a picture, with its stunning 13th-century Ponte Vecchio wooden bridge spanning the tranquil River Brenta. After taking in the beautiful bridge, make your way to Museo degli Alpini to see WWI artefacts. 

The Civic Museum boasts an extensive art collection, and the Civic Tower has sweeping views over the city. The medium-sized town is also notable for its ceramics, which you can admire in the Palazzo Sturm museum. 

How to Get There: The easiest option is to hop on a direct train at Venezia S. Lucia station for €7. 

Average journey duration: 1 hour +/- 15 minutes

Abano and Montegrotto Terme

Fancy something a little more indulgent? I’ve got you.

Abano and Montegrotto Terme are unique Italian spa towns adjacent to each other, with Montegrotto being the oldest of its kind, while Abano is bigger. 

These towns boast many spa resorts and hotels, making them the perfect place to escape for ultimate relaxation and spa therapy. Think healing thermal springs, mud treatments, steamy rejuvenating pools, and more. 

Afterwards, you can enjoy a calm stroll through the town centres and enjoy charming scenery. 

How to Get There: A cheap and quick option is via train from Venezia S. Lucia station to Abano for only €6. 

Average journey duration: 1 hour

Verona 

Probably most well known as the setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet , a true bibliophile and romantic could never say no to visiting Verona for a day. This charming destination is home to an old mediaeval town nestled between the meandering Adige River. 

It’s also the location of a vast 1st-century Roman amphitheatre, the Verona Arena, still hosting notable concerts and opera performances today. Known as “little Rome”, one can embrace the richness of Roman antiquities dotting the city. 

How to Get There: Take a direct Regionale train from Venezia Santa Lucia station to Verona Porta Nuova station for the quickest arrival time. 

Average journey duration: 1 hour 15 minutes 

Hassle-free option: Book This Full-Day Tour  

Brenta Canal

If you would rather the journey be a part of the day trip, I’ve got the perfect option: Take a scenic cruise on the Brenta Canal. Its construction helps prevent damage to transport links in the lagoons around Venice but now serves as a main attraction outside the city. 

Take in the gorgeous surroundings, gardens, boats and awe-inspiring villas as enjoy a charming leisurely cruise on the Brenta Riviera. 

How to Get There: The most convenient option is taking a one-way cruise to Padua.  

Average journey duration: +/- 9 hours 

Hassle-free option: Book This Full-Day Cruise  

Vicenza is a sophisticated city of elegant buildings designed by Andrea Palladio in the 16th century. It boasts many landmarks, such as Monte Berico, the classical outdoors theatre, Teatro Olimpico, and Palazzo Chiericati, a renowned art gallery. 

The Palladian Basilica, Piazza dei Signori, and Palazzo Chiericati are more landmarks to squeeze in on your day trip. Beyond sightseeing, the “City of Gold” offers many shopping and culinary experiences. 

How to Get There: Hop on a direct train at Venice Santa Lucia station via the Regionale line for the quickest and cheapest (€7) trip. 

Average journey duration: 1 hour 15 minutes

If it’s impressive sights you’re after, a visit to Palmanova is a must. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a hidden gem in the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region, while the city’s 9-pointed star shape makes it so iconic.   

It’s equally as unique as Venice and offers delightful walking and biking opportunities. After wandering through the city, explore top historic sights like Piazza Grande di Palmanova and  Chiesa del Santissimo Redentore . 

The city has many bars and restaurants – Pizzeria Al Gambero and Bar & Bistrot Eccetera are both excellent. 

How to Get There: The easiest route would be a Regionale train from Venice Santa Lucia station, with one transfer at Cervignano-Aquileia-Grado. Expect to pay around €11.

Average journey duration: 2 hours

Valeggio Sul Mincio

I think I may have just saved the best Venice day trip til last. Maybe.

Valeggio sul Mincio is a quaint commune in Verona province. It’s an ideal destination if you’re seeking peace and quiet, surrounded by rural landscapes and beautiful nature. I urge you to spend some time relishing the sun-drenched views and picturesque buildings reflecting on the Mincio River. 

Parco Cavour is a main attraction there. This waterpark features slides, crystal clear lagoons with white sand and wellness areas. Strolling through the Parco Giardino Sigurtà gardens and visiting Villa Sigurtà are also great activities for the day. 

How to Get There: A train/bus combo would get you there quickly if you’re using public transport. Hop on a train at Venezia S. Lucia station. Then you transfer to a bus at Peschiera Del Garda Station. This can cost anywhere between €11–93. 

Average journey duration: 2 hours 20 mins minimum

Practical Tips for Easy Day Trips From Venice, Italy

• You’ll probably be taking trips from Venice by train as it’s the most convenient mode of travel in Europe. This site can help you find a train to any destination.
• Wondering how to pack for multiple destinations? Read my travel packing list for some ideas. 
• You’ll likely be doing lots of walking during your day trip; wearing comfy shoes is imperative. I don’t go anywhere without my Tropicfeels .

Map of Venice Day Trips

Day Trips From Venice: Read Next

• Unmissable Venice Landmarks
• A Guide to Winter in Venice
• 2 Days in Venice Itinerary
• Beautiful Airbnbs in Venice
• Exploring Burano, Venice

Love This? Save and Share on Pinterest!

I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

Related Posts

18 Best Things to do in Florence

The Best Hotels in Tuscany: Top Picks for Your Tuscan Escape

The Best Hotels in Florence

Burano, Italy: A Gorgeous Day Trip from Venice

Follow me on Instagram for travel inspiration, tips, and guides.

14 Amazing Day Trips from Venice, Italy

One of the major benefits of studying abroad in Italy meant that I got to explore a lot of the northern region! I used to often take day trips from Venice–there’s so many beautiful cities to visit if you have the extra time and the inclination. The best part? Most of these weekend breaks in Italy require just a quick train ride.

Awesome day trips from Venice

This guide shares some of the best day trips from Venice, Italy and what you can expect when you get there.

Home to some amazing food, Bologna to Venice takes about only an hour and a half by train to get there. Not only can you experience some amazing pasta, several great art museums, and endless porticos to discover, but you also get a taste of an entirely different region of Italy. Bologna is also much less touristy than other Italian cities, which gives you a look into locals’ lives.

This famous lake located in the Italian Alps has become an Instagram darling for good reason. You’ll need to take a two-hour train ride in order to reach this spot, which includes fancy resorts and boat rides throughout the day. As the largest lake in Italy, there are plenty of waterfront activities surrounded by the glory of some gorgeous mountains. For those looking to experience some nature in their excursions from Venice, this is where you want to be!

If you want to visit an equally-beautiful like, you can also head to Lake Como from Milan , as well.

Known mostly for “Juliet’s balcony” and the references to Shakespeare, Verona is a delightful town with an extensive Roman amphitheater and cute cafes you can’t miss in Piazza delle Erbe. (Some of the best coffee I’ve ever had was in Verona.) Don’t forget to stop by the Castle Vecchio and take some pictures overlooking the stunning bridge leading to it. The best part? Verona is only about an hour away by train and by far one of the most convenient day trips from Venice. 

Asolo and Castelfranco

While a little more difficult to get to than some of the other options on this list, these small towns include fortresses, amazing frescoes on the streets, and homemade goods you can take back home with you. I recommend doing these two trips together since it can require both a bus and a train to get to. Or, you can always book a tour that combines both places. For that small-town Italian village feel, both these spots are great choices. 

Four hours each way by train from Venice, Ravenna is worth the extra effort to visit! You have to check out the Neonian Baptistry, which includes a mosaic from the early Byzantine era–if you’re a UNESCO World Heritage Site lover, then you can’t miss this spot. Ravenna also has a number of other worthwhile architectural sites including Dante’s tomb, some beautiful churches, and more.

If you have spent any time in Venice, then you probably know about the architect Andrea Palladio. Vicenza was his home and his sandbox for a number of projects, including stunning villas and public projects. I highly recommend checking out the Teatro Olimpico for the set design. Designed with the newly refined concept of perspective in 1585, it appears as though the stage goes on infinitely. By far one of the best Venice day trips!

Personally, I think Florence needs much more time than a day trip and I recommend 2 days in Florence , but if you have a limited amount of time in Italy, then you might want to jump on a high-speed train (it will get you there in about four hours). If you only have a few hours in Florence, you’ll want to head right to the city center for its most famous attractions, including the Ponte Vecchio, Duomo , and more. Just make sure that you come back someday when you have more time!

The Dolomites

There is some stunning nature around Venice. Unless you have a car, I recommend taking a tour so you can get access to the best views and hiking trails in the area. If you aren’t in the mood to walk, consider taking a gondola up to some of the ski lodges–or strap on a pair yourself during the winter. Regardless, you’ll also want to check out the delightful town of Cortina. It combines the best of mountain culture of the Alps and the laid back attitudes of Italy–definitely one of the chiller day trips from Venice!

Lagoon Islands

You don’t have to go far to feel like you are getting out of Venice. With so many nearby islands such as Burano, Lido, Murano, and more, you can spend months exploring the area without having to get on a bus or train. You’ll want to check out the vaporetto schedule in order to make sure that you can get back at the end of the day. Each island has its own flavor, and they’re all worth visiting if you have the time.

This adorable town has plenty of reasons to consider it as one of the day trips from Venice to take. The Basilica di Sant’Antonio is worth taking a stroll through, as well as heading to some of the local markets available on the weekends. My main recommendation? The Cappella degli Scrovegni, which has been considered as one of the first Renaissance frescoes by Giotto. I personally loved Padua for its open feel and the Palazzo della Ragione–one of the largest town halls in Italy for hundreds of years.

Bassano del Grappa

This Swiss-feeling little town has a lot to enjoy–especially its Ponte Vecchio in the center of town. It’s also well-known for being the home of the first distillery in Italy dating all the way back to 1779. If you were wondering if this is where grappa comes from by the name, you’re completely right! There are also a number of awesome museums and opera shows to check out while you’re here.

Grotte del Caglieron

Open from 10:00 am until 4:00 pm Monday to Sunday, this spot features both natural and artificial caves with plenty of hiking and waterfalls. Those looking to see some of the more nature-friendly day trips from Venice, Italy will want to think about renting a car to get to this spot. Some of these caves were once used for aging cheese, and whether you are looking to get out of cramped Venice or get your nature fix in, this is definitely worth making the trip for.

Brenta Canal

Linking Padua and Venice, you can take a cruise down this lovely canal. When booking it, make sure it stops for a few hours at the beautiful Villa Foscari. Along with being a perfect example of Palladian architecture, it also has some extensive gardens worth strolling through. This is one of the most relaxing days to spend some time away from Venice.

Located on the Adriatic, Trieste offers a relaxed, vacation-like feel only about three hours away from Venice. Right across the border from Slovenia, you certainly get the feeling of being closer to Eastern Europe while still maintaining the look of Italy. Don’t miss the gigantic promenade where you can get a gelato and wander along the coastline. It can get a little cold in the winter, so make sure to visit during the warmer months!

Have you ever explored these day trips from Venice? Share your favorite in the comments!

Like this post? Save it for later!

Looking for more information on Italy? Check out these articles:

• 20 Awesome Museums in Italy You Won’t Want to Miss
• Best Things to Do in Lucca, Italy
• 22 Awesome Movies That Will Transport You to Italy
• Best Restaurants in Florence, Italy

Alex is the founder of Alex on the Map, a site devoted to national park guides, hiking, climbing, and enjoying your outdoor adventures. After growing up near Glacier National Park in Montana, Alex now spends summers in the American West hitting up the trail with her husband and dog.

Her work has been featured in Fodor's, the Huffington Post, Bustle, and many more. She has also been featured in publications such as The Washington Post, CNN, and USA Today.

Similar Posts

12 of the Absolute Best Restaurants in Florence, Italy

Updated February 2020. After living in Italy for six months, I began to learn about how to find the best restaurants in Florence pretty quickly—there was so much to choose from, and discovering places that weren’t super touristy was a challenge. However, there is so much good food in Florence, so when you find the…

10 of the Absolute Best Restaurants in Lucca, Italy

In my early twenties, I made the move to Italy. And then I did it again. This time, however, I jumped from trying the best restaurants in Florence to the quieter, homier feel of Lucca, Italy. I went from a place everyone knew to one that no one knew at all. Compared to Florence, Lucca…

14 Awesome Lucca Hotels Perfect for Your Trip

Living in Lucca, Italy was one of my favorite experiences abroad, and I have so many fond memories there. There are plenty of Lucca hotels that are worth choosing, and you can find a variety for almost every budget. I’ve narrowed it down to the top choices so you can spend less time planning and…

The Ultimate Guide to the Piazza Duomo

I lived in Florence for a total of more than six months, and have been there a few times before that. During that time, I lived about seven minutes away from Piazza Duomo, where the famous church is located. I don’t know how many hours I spent in that area, but I came to know…

17 Awesome Bars in Florence You Need to Check Out

Early on in my career when it was the Local Expert for Florence for USA Today 10Best, much of my job was sampling the different bars in Florence and spending the night out. Occasionally when I head back to Italy, I tend to hit up some of these old haunts–some are comparable to the bars…

Best Places to Go Hiking in Italy

Although Italy is popularly known for its history, cities, and delicious cuisine, it also home to a wide range of hiking options perfect for your Italy bucket list. Hiking in Italy allows you to explore less-crowded destinations and panoramic views. There are plenty of places to go hiking from the mountain trails of northern Italy…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Venice Tourism
• Venice Hotels
• Venice Bed and Breakfast
• Venice Vacation Rentals
• Flights to Venice
• Venice Restaurants
• Things to Do in Venice
• Venice Travel Forum
• Venice Photos
• All Venice Hotels
• Venice Hotel Deals
• Last Minute Hotels in Venice
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Vacation Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Seeing Venice from a bit far - Venice Forum

• Europe    
• Italy    
• Veneto    
• Province of Venice    
• City of Venice    
• Venice    

Seeing Venice from a bit far

• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Vacation Rentals
• City of Venice forums
• Venice forum

Dear friends

1. Are there any Vaperretto rides I can do from which I can see Venice sights from bit far ; similar to if I was going to Murano .

2. With mainland being so crowded , would you recommend me just waking around there or walk to any neighbourhoods . Please advise !

3. Any suggestion to plan our half day and half day with these thoughts in mind .

Thank you !! And yes basis inputs from this group , I would be staying at a hotel next to Train station Santa Lucia !

10 replies to this topic

Or take it from Piazza San Marco and then go to Lido (if you want to avoid the most crowded part of the trip).

It will pass through the Giudecca canal, so you will see the Molino Stucky, the Zattere, the Giudecca, the island of San Giorgio and the San Marco Basin from the water.

You could go from Tronchetto by ferry boat and return by vaporetto across the Grand Canal to the train station.

You have to see San Marco, the Basilica, Doge's Palace and waterfront. Busy or not, they are the heart of historical Venice and very close together.

Yes, we got a 36 hour vaparetto pass and went around the routes described above a dozen times. Fantastic photo opportunities especially at night when the day trippers have left. You can jump on and off wherever you like.

Thanks a lot everyone for your lovely inputs. Will explore all of these.

Are there are 24 hour vaporetta passes as well ? and is really cost effective . Thank you.

I think so but the 36 hour one lasts the best part of two days.

• Which transport pass 11:44 pm
• Early am flight out - arrival time?? 10:04 pm
• “Takeaway” 9:56 pm
• Car Rental Question 9:42 pm
• Unable to register for exemption from visitors' fee 3:10 pm
• Seeing Venice from a bit far 1:30 pm
• Handling crowds 1:20 pm
• ATVO Express Bus from Piazzale Roma to Marco Polo Airport 12:28 pm
• Vivaticket MUVE Museum pass today
• Venice in 3 days. today
• St Marks basilica ticket question today
• Doge's Palace & Torre dell'Orologio Discounts today
• Venice museums, pass or individual tickets ? today
• Recommendation for private boat transfer from airport yesterday
• Best area to stay in Venice? 8 replies
• Milan to Venice by train 15 replies
• Hotel in the movie "The Tourist" 22 replies
• How much does a gondola ride cost ? 25 replies
• Train Venice to Florence 14 replies
• Hi - what weather can I expect in Venice mid October? 12 replies
• Vienna to Venice by train 65 replies
• Hotel near cruise terminal 8 replies
• Best Romantic hotel with canal view (on a budget but nice!) 43 replies
• One day in Venice 7 replies

Venice Hotels and Places to Stay

• Planning - Using the Forum
• Planning - Initial Questions
• Planning - Initial Planning
• Planning - Arriving in Venice
• Planning - Where to Stay
• Planning - Getting to Your Accommodation
• In Venice - Tipping and Coperto
• In Venice - Transportation
• In Venice - Acqua Alta and MOSE
• in Venice - #EnjoyRespectVenice
• Useful post - Books on Venice
• Useful post - How much do things cost in Venice

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

Welcome to Venice. That’ll Be 5 Euros.

Starting this month, tourists intending to visit the city on busy dates will be required to register on a website, and those coming for a single day will have to pay an entry fee.

By Elisabetta Povoledo

Reporting from Italy

On its busiest days, Venice swells with tourists who clog the city’s narrow streets, leave behind piles of garbage and often frustrate locals. So the canal-crossed city is fighting back.

Starting on April 25, and for another 29 days scattered mostly around national holidays and weekends through mid-July, day trippers to the historic part of Venice will have to pay 5 euros, about $5.40, a measure that city officials hope will encourage people to come during less busy times.

All visitors to Venice will also have to register their presence in the city on the specified days, filling out an online form that will help officials gauge how many visitors to expect and strategize about how to handle them.

“It’s not about making money — the costs of the operation are higher than what we’re going to make,” Mayor Luigi Brugnaro told reporters on Thursday as Venetian officials kicked off a global advertising campaign.

Instead, said Michele Zuin, the city official in charge of budgeting and economics, the aim is “to better manage the numbers of tourists and disincentivize mass tourism, which is what creates, let’s say, the difficulty of living in this city.”

Visitors staying overnight in Venice will not have to pay, nor will those traveling there to work, to visit relatives or to study. Anyone born in the city is also exempt , as are minors under 14. And Mr. Brugnaro said there would be no cap on the number of visitors allowed in.

Rising improbably from the waters of the Venetian lagoon, the city is as delicate as it is beautiful, and in recent decades it has struggled to protect a uniqueness that is threatened by climate change and rising seas, as well as by mass tourism .

To counter that figurative and literal erosion, the city has installed giant gates at four mouths of the lagoon to keep seawater out and pavements dry, and banned cruise ships from the inner canals. Those efforts helped keep Venice off UNESCO’s list of “World Heritage in Danger” even after experts at the agency raised concerns last year that Italy had not done enough to protect the city.

From 1976 until this year, Italy had allocated funds to help safeguard Venice, and on Thursday, Mr. Brugnaro chided the country’s central government for not renewing that funding. He said he had asked the government for €1.5 billion for the next 10 years to help preserve a city with a unique heritage that requires continuous maintenance.

“We need that financing,” he said.

Occasionally, days have been so busy with tourists that the city has had to limit some streets to one-way pedestrian traffic.

Simone Venturini, the city official in charge of tourism, said of the new measures, “We will be the first city in the world to know exactly how many tourists will come to Venice that day — whether exempt or paying, they have to register.”

After registering on the website, visitors will receive a QR code — valid from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. — that they will be required to show when entering the city at points like the train station, Piazzale Roma, the municipal parking lot, some beachfront locations and St. Mark’s Square. There will also be spot checks throughout the city.

For now, anyone arriving in Venice without a QR code will be allowed to buy it at the last minute, either on a smartphone or at kiosks set up leading up to the access points, officials said.

Transgressors will face fines of €50 to €300 plus a €10 fee, Mr. Zuin said.

The initiative is being introduced on a trial basis so that city officials can see whether the system works and how it can be improved, he said. In the future, the entry fee could be calibrated — “a sliding scale of prices,” Mayor Brugnaro said — depending on the day.

“We’re asking for collaboration,” Mr. Brugnaro said, adding that the data accumulated during the 29 days would be made public. He said that officials from other cities around the world had contacted his administration to find out more about the access system.

So far, more than 50,000 people have registered through the website — about a third of them paying for one-day visits, officials said.

“The entire world wants to come to Venice,” Mr. Venturini said at the introduction of the advertising campaign, which included a video message of the mayor speaking in various languages using A.I.-generated speech translation.

In the video, Mayor Brugnaro apologizes for any inconvenience that the new system might create. But, he said, “the city has to be protected.”

Elisabetta Povoledo is a reporter based in Rome, covering Italy, the Vatican and the culture of the region. She has been a journalist for 35 years. More about Elisabetta Povoledo

Venice day-trippers will face steep fines if they fail to pay access fee

MILAN (AP) — Day-trippers to the fabled canal city of Venice who fail to pay 5 euros ($5.43) to enter the lagoon city’s historic center during a time-limited pilot program launching later this month will face fines starting at 10 times the entrance fee, officials said Thursday.

Venice announced last year it would launch the long-discussed day-tripper fee after the city escaped being placed on the U.N. agency’s list of endangered heritage sites, due largely to the impact of overtourism. Officials have avoided calling it a tax, opting for softer words like contribution, and have downplayed the possibility of waits to enter the city, emphasizing there will be no turnstiles or physical barriers.

But during a press briefing, Mayor Luigi Brugnaro suggested lines could form at the official entry points, and used the word tax to describe the fee.

Brugnaro said personnel have been trained to verify that tourists who are not staying in Venice have either a QR code confirming payment of the fee or an exemption voucher. Exemptions will be issued for a variety of reasons, including to access the city for work, school or medical care, as well as to people born in Venice, and residents of the Veneto region.

Venice has long suffered under the pressure of overtourism, but officials say pre-pandemic estimates ranging from 25 million to 30 million visitors a year —including day-trippers — are not reliable and that the pilot project also aims to come up with more exact figures to help better manage the phenomenon. By contrast, registered visitors spending the night last year numbered 4.6 million, according to city figures, down 16% from pre-pandemic highs.

Visitors arriving at the main train and bus stations will first be met by stewards who will remind tourists of the new requirement and help anyone who hasn’t yet downloaded the QR code. Payment points will be set up for anyone without a smartphone.

Brugnaro said that anyone found beyond designated control points without the required documentation will be subject to fines. These will range from 50 to 300 euros (from around $55 to $326, depending on exchange rates), plus the maximum entrance fee allowed by law, set at 10 euros (nearly $11).

“There is no tax without controls,’’ Brugnaro told foreign reporters in Rome.

Visitors will be subject to random, not systematic, checks, he said.

“If someone turns himself into Batman and tries to enter, and enters all the same, he will not win a medal from me, but we will simply thank him for his rudeness,’’ the mayor said.

Officials have emphasized that the program aims to reduce crowds on peak days, encourage longer visits and improve the quality of life for residents. The fee is not required for anyone staying in Venice, including the mainland districts of Marghera and Mestre.

Venice’s islands, including glass-making Murano, are also outside the pilot program, which is being tested on 29 days, starting with an Italian national holiday on April 25 through mid-July, including most weekends, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. No maximum number of visitors has been set in this phase.

Venice is launching an advertising campaign to inform visitors of the new obligation, featuring Brugnaro speaking a variety of languages aided by artificial intelligence. Visitors can register at the website, www.cda.ve.it, which is operating in five languages.

The pandemic delayed Venice’s plans to launch the day-tripper tax, which has become a keystone of the city’s attempts to deal with overtourism. UNESCO cited the plan when it decided not to include the city on the list of endangered world heritage sites last September, a tarnish that it similarly avoided two years earlier with the cruise ship ban through St. Mark’s Basin and the Giudecca Canal. Cruise ships brought 1.6 million people to Venice in 2019.

Brugnaro said many cities around the globe have contacted him for details of the plan, but that they asked not to be identified.

Activists sounded a warning last summer when the number of tourist beds officially overtook the number of residents, which has dwindled to under 50,000 in a trend dating back decades. They said the imbalance drains the city of services, clogging its tight alleyways and water buses with suitcase-toting tourists and pushing residents to the mainland with its conveniences.

Most Read Life Stories

• Canlis will open only on weekdays this summer
• Legendary mountaineer Reinhold Messner visits Seattle this weekend
• 4 great restaurants for your Skagit Valley Tulip Festival road trip
• Where to drink around Seattle on National Beer Day
• Direct flights from Sea-Tac airport to Philippines start this fall

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Travel Products

These Are the Only 3 Outfits You Need to Pack for Any Trip, According to a Carry-on-only Traveler

This foolproof packing list actually doubles the amount of outfits in your suitcase.

• Best Accessories for Travel Outfits

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Daisy Rodriguez

Before I became a travel journalist, I was a buyer in the fashion industry for over 15 years, working with brands such as Brooks Brothers, Michael Kors, and the former Liz Claiborne, so you can say that I have a keen eye for style, quality fabrics, and a good fit. These days, I put my former skills to work in a different way. On average, I travel twice a month and it’s not unusual for me to be zipping through the airport on any given day, so I pack light and maximize the outfits that I’m taking with me. 

At first, it wasn’t easy to streamline my packing lists for each destination; I was always stressed that I had left an essential top, pair of bottoms, jacket — you name it — at home. But, with the help of my former fashion buyer brain, I developed the ultimate travel capsule wardrobe , complete with three foolproof outfits that help me create dozens of looks (without needing to check a bag , I might add). Here are my favorite mix-and-match separates that suit any type of trip itinerary — both work and play — along with some must-have accessories that'll widen your wardrobe horizons. 

Duer LuxTwill Trucker Jacket 

Duer luxtwill high-rise trousers, minnow navy and dusty red stripe sweater.

I’ve been a huge fan of the Canadian clothing company Duer for several years now, and its LuxTwill Trucker Jacket and matching High-Rise Trousers are one of my favorite outfits to bring on work trips. Both the jacket and pants are made of 98 percent cotton and 2 percent elastane, so the pieces have a structured look while allowing for some stretch for comfort.

While it’s a great set, I also love to wear the jacket as a separate, over dresses, leggings, or jeans. And, to save suitcase space, I'll sport it on the plane. I've found that it's a versatile essential that’s great for work and play destinations. The trousers pair well with knits as well as button-front tops. I especially love pairing it with a slouchy novelty sweater like my favorite one from Minnow ; it's an excellent transition piece for spring that works with denim, pants, skirts and shorts and is constructed of a dreamy cotton-cashmere blend, making it super soft and comfortable. 

The timeless nautical pullover is also cozy, but not bulky and the dolman sleeves are fashionable and functional, allowing you to move freely when traveling. I own two of these sweaters and find myself bringing them on work trips and vacations because they match with nearly everything that I own.

To copy the look for less, pair this cropped jacket (on sale for $24) with these $40 high-waisted trousers and this nautical-inspired crewneck sweater that's currently $31 — all from Amazon. 

PrettyGarden Two-Piece Sleeveless Vest and Wide-Leg Pants Set

I’m in love with Amazon's two-piece sets because not only are they available at amazing price points, but they're super sleek and can be styled in so many ways. Here, the vest is drapey and offers a sophisticated and elegant look, although it also works well with denim; when I'm home, I like pairing it with my Everlane Super-Soft Relaxed Jeans for a laidback SoCal vibe, but when I'm on the go, it goes perfectly with the Duer LuxTwill High-Rise Trousers featured above (and I can layer the brand's LuxTwill Trucker Jacket on top or pair the PrettyGarden trousers with my Minnow sweater ). 

The bottoms are like palazzo pants and flare slightly, with a loose fit throughout. I like that they aren’t too tight, making them perfect for work meetings, long travel days, and itinerary-heavy days. They also have functioning pockets that are great for holding your essentials while on the move. The set comes in eight colors and sizes range from S to 2XL. Both pieces are machine washable; I’ve put them to the test in the wash several times and they come out looking just as good as new. A word of advice: Make sure you hang them to dry or lay them flat so they retain good shape.

For a more tailored look, you can get the set with a tighter-fitting cropped vest for $52. But, if this look is too business casual for your destination, I also pulled some stunning two-piece sets; check out the now-viral Anrabess Short-Sleeve Mockneck Sweater Set on sale for $40, the tropical getaway-ready Anrabess Linen Tank Top Matching Set that's currently $30, or the PrettyGarden Rib Knit Matching Set , which trades trousers for an elegant maxi skirt.  

Vuori’s Short-Sleeve Lux Crew Jumpsuit

Vuori makes my favorite activewear, so it’s no surprise that this super-flattering jumpsuit is on my list of favorite travel outfits. The jumpsuit's performance knit is so comfortable, especially in the summer when it feels good to wear loose-fitting clothing, but is also perfect for travel days, road trips, as well as lounging poolside (save room in your carry-on by using it as a swim cover-up). 

To make this outfit extra cool, slip the brand’s Halo Performance Hoodie over it when heading to a Pilates class or an early morning stroll. You can also wear it with a cropped jacket (like the Duer trucker jacket that I mentioned earlier) for a night out on the town. When the dress code calls for something cozier, I'll layer my Minnow sweater on top so it feels like I'm wearing a sweatshirt and sweatpants — even though the combo looks effortlessly chic.  

If you’re not a fan of onesies, don’t fret. Vuori's Villa Wide-Leg Pants can be paired with its Energy Top to serve a similar look. And, if you're looking for more budget-friendly jumpsuits, over at Amazon, you can get the Anrabess Short-Sleeve Crewneck Jumpsuit for $40. 

Travel + Leisure / Jean Chen Smith

Best Accessories for Travel Outfits 

Now, it's time to put the finishing touches on these travel outfits. Similarly, my go-to accessories can be mixed and matched to be styled with different looks, ensuring that everything in your suitcase is functional and will get plenty of use on your trip. Below, you'll find my favorite travel shoes and travel purses to tie your outfits together. 

Kizik Venice Slip-On Sneakers

A while back, I kept seeing these amazing hands-free slip-on shoes that you can put on and take off without having to bend down or fuss with laces. The Venice slip-ons are by far my favorites. They’re easy to slide right into, super lightweight, and hassle-free to pack. I love wearing them on long flights because they don’t feel constricting (plus, they make going through TSA security a breeze and I can easily slide out of them once I'm in my seat). And, when I'm at my destination, their cushy insoles and grippy rubber soles keep my feet comfy and supported when I'm on the move. 

They go with everything and really elevate any outfit. I'll pair them with my Duer set for more casual affairs and use them to make my PrettyGarden vest-trouser duo more playful after work meetings. And, of course, they're the long-lost soulmate for my Vuori jumpsuit , especially on travel days. 

Sapahn Jori Crossbody Bag

I used to be partial to labels and monogrammed bags, but I’m currently loving the Jori Crossbody for day-to-night use. During a recent trip to Santa Barbara, I found myself using it instead of my trusty Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag — which says a lot . Although it looks small, it actually fits everything that I need for a busy day on the go; I can store a small notebook, wallet, makeup compact, and smartphone in there without effort. 

The best feature of this bag is that you can switch out the straps to give it an entirely different look, making it transitional from work to play. There are two pockets inside for organizing smaller items like lipsticks or receipts. It comes in four colors, although the khaki hue is my favorite because it’s great for spring and it goes with everything — whether I'm dressed up in my PrettyGarden vest and wide-leg trousers , dressed down in my Duer LuxTwill Trucker Jacket and matching High-Rise Trousers , or out grabbing coffee in my Vuori jumpsuit .  

Amazon is filled with leather crossbody purses that are equal parts versatile, functional, and stylish — starting with the Gladdon Crossbody Bag (that's on sale for $16), the $13 FashionPuzzle Small Dome Chain Strap Crossbody Bag , and the Afkomst Crossbody Bag , which has a similar gold buckle detail in the center. For extra flair, I also spotted this on-sale Fossil crossbody that has a color-blocking print and a roomy build. 

Milmo 1813 Tote Bag

Milmo's 1813 isn’t just another tote bag, it’s a lifesaver for travel. I often use it as a personal item (paired with my Vuori jumpsuit ) when flying because of its versatility and roominess. I also love that it has a removable and washable interior liner that easily comes out with snap buttons; I don’t have to over-worry about spills and messes (the company also offers a two-year warranty on any defects outside of normal wear and tear). 

Its durable rope handles, which attach along the lower half of the bag, can hold up to 300 pounds, which is why it excels as a travel bag. As a tote, it's elegant, structured design is boardroom-ready (with my PrettyGarden two-piece set) , but it can also be worn as the perfect off-duty bag thanks to its convertible crossbody straps (I can sport it around town in the Vuori jumpsuit or Duer duo when I want to be hands-free). The exterior zip pockets allow for quick and easy access to your essentials while in line at the airport or a local eatery. It comes in four colors, but my choice is green.

Over at Amazon, you can replicate the look by adding the KouLi Buir Quilted Tote Bag ($40) or Missnine Laptop Tote Bag ($30) to your cart. But, if you want vast color options, I recommend the Wrangler Vintage Convertible Tote , which is available in 33 hues and is currently on sale for $49. 

Everlane Day Glove Flats

While I’m a huge fan of my Mansur Gavriel flats , I usually opt for Everlane's Day Gloves when I'm traveling because they’re just so comfortable and sleek. Praised for their buttery soft leather, the shoes mold to your feet for easy movement and endless support. I can take on a full day of walking wearing them. The rubber soles create a solid foundation and provide grippy traction on uneven and slick surfaces.

Made in an Italian factory, they come in 13 colors and sizes from 5 to 11, with the option for narrow or comfort width. I own several colors and rotate them when traveling. Plus, they hardly take up any room in my suitcase, which is always a win if you're a carry-on-only traveler, and can help spruce up professional outfits like the PrettyGarden vest and wide-leg pants , or make laidback styles like the Duer trucker jacket , matching pants , and Minnow sweater dressier.  

Their comfort is hard to match, but Amazon shoppers assure that the Trary Mary Jane Flats are another supportive option (and they're only $35). You can also get the Square-Toe Ankle Strap Ballet Flats , which are teacher-approved , from DreamPairs for $33. Knit flat fans can score the popular Frank Mully Pointed-Toe Flats for $36 thanks to a limited-time deal.

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.

See More T+L Shopping Deals