4 Days in Venice, Italy: A Travel Guide for First-Time Visitors

Venice is one of those places that just doesn’t feel real. From the minute you arrive whether it’s by train, water taxi, or boat, it feels like you’ve stepped onto a movie set. It’s romantic, magical, slightly chaotic, and completely unique. I’ve visited Venice a number of times and recently spent 4 dreamy days exploring this little floating city and honestly, it stole my heart. If you’re heading to Venice for the first time, this guide has everything you need to make the most of your trip: where to stay, what to do, what to eat (very important), and all the little tips I wish I’d known before going.

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Basics for Your First Time in Venice

• Language – Italian
• Currency – Euros
• Power Plugs – The Type C two-pin plug is compatible with all Italian power sockets.

Where to Stay

Location is everything in Venice. The city is made up of tiny islands connected by canals and bridges, so while it’s not huge, getting around can take a bit of time. I’d recommend staying in San Marco or Dorsoduro for your first visit. They’re super central and perfect for sightseeing and exploring.

Top Picks:

• Belmond Hotel Cipriani: this retreat offers stunning lagoon views, pristine pools, and impeccable service. Pricy but worth it.
• Ca’ di Dio – modern luxury meets Venetian charm. A little slice of calm away from the crowds.
• Sina Centurion Palace – elegant but relaxed, with that touch of luxury.
• Londra Palace Venezia – classic Venetian luxury done just right, think balconies overlooking the lagoon, dreamy interiors, and that timeless, romantic vibe that makes you never want to leave.
• Airbnbs – there are loads of stunning canal-side flats if you want a more local feel. Just double-check there are no surprise stairs or accessibility issues (Venice = stairs + bridges everywhere!).

Tip: Stay central (San Marco, Dorsoduro or Cannaregio) for easy access to the sights and the best dining. Water taxis can be booked door-to-door from the airport for the full James Bond arrival moment.

Where to eat

• Osteria La Busara
• Gallonetto
• Farini
• Ristorante Santa Maria Formosa
• Verde Bistro
• Ristorante Pizzeria Al Profeta

Day 1: Get Lost (On Purpose)

The best way to start in Venice? Wander.

• St. Mark’s Basilica – It’s breath taking, and free to enter (go early to avoid queues).
• Doge’s Palace – Worth booking in advance. The interiors are stunning and walking across the Bridge of Sighs feels straight out of a novel.
• The Bridge of Sighs – One of those places that gives you chills when you realise the story behind it. It connected the old interrogation rooms to the prison, so it was the last view of Venice prisoners ever saw. Beautiful but kind of eerie, too.
• Rialto Bridge – The views from here are unreal. Busy but worth it. (Be mindful of pickpockets.)

Tip: Venice is the kind of place where “getting lost” is part of the charm. Allow time to just explore the alleys, pop into little shops, and stop for drink breaks.

Day 2: Island Hopping

Escape the crowds and hop over to the surrounding islands.

• Murano – Visit a private glass-blowing workshop and maybe even design your own bespoke piece.
• Burano – Famous for lace, pastel homes, and the prettiest canals. Perfect for a leisurely lunch. It’s authentic and oh so photogenic.

Tip: Book a private boat for the day to explore the islands in total comfort. Most hotels can arrange this for you.

Day 3: Hidden Gems + Aperitivo Life

Once you’ve ticked off the big sights, it’s time to see a quieter side of Venice.

• Dorsoduro – My fave neighbourhood. More local, less touristy, and filled with great bars and galleries.
• Peggy Guggenheim Collection – If you like modern art, this is a must. Also, the view from the sculpture garden is dreamy.
• Squero di San Trovaso – A gondola workshop that feels frozen in time.

Finish your day like a true Venetian: cicchetti crawl (aka Venetian tapas) + Aperol Spritz.

Day 4: Slow Morning + Gondola Dreams

On your last day, keep it slow. Venice is best enjoyed without rushing.

• Early morning walk – Before the crowds hit, Venice is so peaceful. Walk along the canals, grab a some breakfast, and soak it all in.
• Gondola ride – Yes, it’s touristy. Yes, it’s expensive (around €80 for 30 mins). But honestly? It’s worth doing once.
• Shopping – Pop into Fondaco dei Tedeschi, browse the little mask shops, and pick up some Murano glass if you didn’t already.

Then head back to the airport with your phone full of photos and your heart a little heavier, you won’t want to leave.

Travel Tips for a Seamless Trip

• Water taxis from the airport are the way to arrive in style. Book in advance, your hotel can help.
• Carry cash. Some smaller boutiques and cafés are cash-only.
• Off-peak is best. Visit in spring or autumn for fewer crowds and gorgeous light.
• Pack light. There are no cars. You’ll be walking and wheeling your suitcase across bridges, so don’t overpack.
• Download offline maps. Google Maps works well but sometimes gets confused in the alleys. Trust your instincts too!
• Bring comfy shoes. Cute, yes – but make sure they’re comfy. You’ll walk a lot.
• Be prepared for acqua alta. Especially in autumn/winter, some areas can flood. Waterproof boots or covers can be a lifesaver.
• Use the Vaporetto. It’s like Venice’s version of the tube. Grab a multi-day pass to save money.

Venice is one of those places that stays with you long after you’ve left. There’s just something about the way it feels, like a real-life fairytale that you got to live in for a few days. If you’re heading there soon, I hope this guide helps you fall in love with it too.

Let me know if you’ve been or if it’s on your list. I always love hearing your recommendations and stories.