Venice in seven days: the ultimate itinerary to discover the beautiful lagoon city

So, what to do in seven days in Venice? If you are lucky enough to be able to spend a week in the lagoon, we are sure you will be able to enjoy this incredible city to the fullest by exploring calli, sestieri, museums and breathtaking views. 

In this article, you will find our suggested itinerary for spending seven days in Venice. Our itinerary includes both a part on the mainland and a part in the other islands of the lagoon, which are very characteristic and fascinating. In Venice, you can discover incredible attractions, churches and palaces, not forgetting to taste the local food. A very quick and practical way not to miss anything is to buy a city pass like Venice Pass. 

Are you ready to go?

Visit Venice with Venice Pass❯

Start your day and itinerary of seven days in Venice in the most iconic square: San Marco Square. The homonymous Basilica, overlooking it, with its five Byzantine domes welcomes you with golden mosaics and statues of winged lions. Be sure to admire the Campanile di San Marco, a must-see viewpoint.

After exploring the square, visit the Doge’s Palace, a majestic doge’s residence. Walk through the opulent corridors and cross the famous Bridge of Sighs, which connects the palace to the prisons. The square also houses the Correr Museum, where you can discover the history of Venice through works of art, costumes and historical artefacts.

If your visit has tired you can think of stopping at the historic Caffé Florian. One of the oldest cafes in Europe located right in Piazza San Marco. It is a historic and fascinating place to have a coffee, an aperitif or a light meal while you immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of the square. 

After setting out on the first day and visiting some museums, we recommend a trip to the two most important islands in the Venzia lagoon. We are talking about Murano Island and Burano Island. To reach them you can take the vaporetto.

The first, Murano Island is famous for its tradition of blown glass. We recommend you visit a glass furnace to witness live demonstrations and admire exquisite glass artwork.

Next, head to the Island of Burano, here you will be impressed by its brightly colored houses that you have most likely seen represented in some photographs. In addition to its beauty, this island is famous for its artisanal lace. Explore the Lace Museum and discover this centuries-old artisan tradition.

One of the best ways to visit Veneza is to make a short list of its main and characteristic neighborhoods. Each district has its own charm and unique personality. Here is an overview of the most important districts to visit in the lagoon city.

The San Marco district is the historic heart of Venice and is famous for St Mark’s Square, St Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace. This is the most visited area by tourists, and is known for its stunning architecture and numerous historic cafes. Do not miss the opportunity to take a walk along the promenade and enjoy the view of the Grand Canal.

As a second we suggest the district of Cannareggio (in the picture). This neighborhood is known for being one of the most authentic of Venice. It is less crowded than San Marco and is a great place to explore the more genuine side of the city. Visit the Jewish Ghetto, which is one of the first Jewish ghettos ever established in Europe. Also enjoy a walk along the Grand Canal and discover its picturesque calle (streets).

Do not miss to visit the district of Dorsoduro. It is famous for being home to important cultural institutions, including the Academy of Fine Arts and the Punta della Dogana. Here you will also find the Gallerie dell'Accademia, which houses an extraordinary art collection. Dorsoduro is an ideal place for lovers of art and architecture.

Are you interested in going back in time? The San Polo District is the place for you. This is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Venice and is famous for the Rialto Bridge, an iconic structure that crosses the Grand Canal. You can also visit it by gondola, for this we refer to the paragraph deidcato to the canals, the day 5. San Polo is an ideal place to shop and enjoy authentic Venetian food in its many restaurants and bacari (taverns).

If you still have time left on this day, take a trip to the imposing fortress of Venice: it is located in the Castello district. 

Here info about Venice Pass❯

After exploring the city a bit, it’s time to visit other really important places. We remind you that to facilitate the entry to some structures such as museums, churches or buildings you can use the Venice Pass that can be declined in a day, two days or five days, depending on your needs.

One of the most important Italian playwrights lived in Venice, we are talking about Carlo Goldoni. And right here you will find his Home. He is considered one of the founding fathers of modern comedy, was born in Venice and used the Venetian dialect in numerous plays. His home, now a museum, is the Palazzo Centanni, where he was born in 1707. Also, on the same day you could visit the Doge’s Palace and the Mocenigo Palace.
Palazzo Ducale is worth a visit as it was once the seat of the Doge and now one of the symbols of the city of Venice. It is also located in Piazza San Marco and has a predominantly Gothic style. As for Palazzo Mocenigo is located in the Sestiere of Santa Croce and is home to the Museum of the Centro Studi del Tessuto, del Costume and del Profumo.
If you have some time left in the afternoon, you should visit the Basilica dei Frari, a sublime example of Venetian Gothic architecture. Inside, you will find masterpieces of art by Titian and Donatello.

If you say Venzia you say Gondola. In your itinerary of seven days can not miss a gondola ride. This experience will be fascinating and romantic, not surprisingly another of Venice’s nicknames is "the city of water."

The tour usually includes the Grand Canal and the other canals that intersect and give life to the city. The gondolas are easily identifiable for their unique style and the presence of the famous gondoliers. While you let yourself be lulled by the gentle waters of the canals, observe the unique architecture of Venice. The colorful facades, stone bridges and charming churches are reflected in the water, creating an unparalleled visual spectacle. You will pass by the infamous Rialto Bridge, the Bridge of Sighs and the Doge’s Palace.

You can also decide the route together with your gondolier, to get taken to the most secret and hidden places. And why not you can ask him to sing you some typical Venetian songs. 

If you are planning to visit Venice, you cannot miss the enchanting Island of San Giorgio Maggiore. This hidden gem of the city of lagoons offers a peaceful and cultural experience that is a perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of Venice. That’s why you should include it in your itinerary arrived on day six.

In particular, start your visit by exploring the magnificent Basilica of San Giorgio Maggiore, a masterpiece of the architect Andrea Palladio. This church features a spectacular interior with stunning artwork and a panoramic view from the dome that will leave you breathless. Be sure to climb the bell tower for an unforgettable view. The climb is not too demanding, but the reward is an unparalleled panorama of the city, including its famous monuments such as Piazza San Marco and the Campanile di San Marco.

The streets of San Giorgio are picturesque and invite to a pleasant walk. Explore the island at your leisure and discover picturesque corners and fascinating views.

After spending a week in Venice you will surely be tired and you will want to enjoy good food and relax in the many places that are offered to tourists. A great opportunity to take stock of your stay and maybe, if the season and the weather allow, take a trip to the beach.

One possibility is the Lido Beach, where you can sunbathe and enjoy the waters of the Adriatic Sea. Just this beach is also famous for the Film Festival held every year in September. To reach this beach, which is located in the small island just in front of Venice, you can take the vaporetto.

Once in the evening you’ll want to relax before leaving town. After returning from the beach you can try local delicacies such as sardines in saor and meatballs. Maybe after an aperitif with shots and spritzers in one of the traditional bacaro.