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Europe , Italy , Road Trip · May 21, 2020

The ultimate Italy road trip – 5 beautiful stops from Venice to Rome

This is hands down one of my favourite road trips we have ever done. Driving from Venice to Rome, down through Lombardy, Emilia Romagna and Tuscany, showed a side of Italy I had never seen before. Stopping off at some of the most beautiful little villages and natural wonderlands along the way we completely fell in love with the area. If you are contemplating a road trip in Italy then I could not recommend this one more! We took this trip as a part of our 3 week trip to Italy where we started in the Dolomites, drove through Tuscany and ended up in the Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terre. It was the absolute dream Italy drip – but the best part was definitely this road trip through the Tuscan Countryside. At no other point on our trip did we stay in such beautiful places or get to see so many unique towns.

So, with that let’s get started!

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Our 7 Day Road Trip Itinerary

• Day 1 – Venice
• Day 2: Mantova
• Day 3: San Marino
• Day 4: Urbino
• Day 5: Gola Del Furlo, Lago Trasimeno, Church of San Biagio, bagni San Filippo, Manciano
• Day 6: Pitigliano, Rome

Hiring A Car in Italy

I personally think the best way to travel around Tuscany is by car, thus this is a road trip Italy guide. Only because it means that you can stop whenever you want and be a little more spontaneous. I have written this blog post as an Italy road trip itinerary so many of the spots are hard to reach by public transport.

We hired our car in Verona or a previous part of our trip and drive around The Dolomites first. From here we drove to Venice and then started our trip. In my experience the best place to hire a car is at the airport. Although, if you are looking for a more budget option it is usually cheaper to hire cars in the city outlets rather than the airport.

When travelling around this area of Europe , we usually hire our cars from Discover Cars . They have cars from all major car hire dealers in Italy so it is really easy to find the best price for the period of your stay!

I recommend always getting comprehensive car insurance. This is especially true when you are on a road trip in Italy as sometimes the drivers there can be a little bit crazier than you are used to. When we had finished our road trip from Venice to Rome we left the car at the airport in Rome.

it Italy they drive on the right side of the road.

The Best Hotels To Stay At from Venice to Rome

I have added the details of all accomodations below! I recommend every single one of them for their own reasons! We booked them all on either Airbnb or Booking.com.

Venice to Rome – the dreamiest Summer Italy Road Trip

Day 1: starting the road trip in venice.

We chose to start our road trip in Venice as this was a destination we had wanted to visit for a long time and it seemed like the perfect anchor point for a Tuscan trip. We spent 2 days in Venice before beginning our Italy road trip which was the perfect amount of time.

If you want more detailed information on Venice, see this post!

There are quite a few amazing sights in Venice that are worth seeing, but truthfully I would say the best way to enjoy the city is just to spend all day aimlessly walking around, trying to get lost. It is harder than you think, with all streets seeming to connect and lead you back to the same place, but it is amazing when you find alleyways and squares that are off the beaten track. This is when it really feels like a magical city! Venice is a great place to start your road trip in Italy, with easy international access and it is close by to the best places to visit!

How To Get To Venice

Depending where in your trip you are visiting Venice , there are so many options to getting there! You can fly into the airport, and then either get a shuttle bus into the city or take the express airport ferry. If you are arriving by car like we did, you have to park your car in one of the car parks outside of the city and then walk, or catch a ferry, to your accomodation! You have to book these car parks in advance, especially in peak season, as it is incredibly busy and they fill up really quickly! We booked ours into Garage San Marco. It was quite good value and the process was all very smooth. You give them your booking reference, they show you to your spot and you leave your keys, and when you come back you just show your reference again and off you go!

Where To Stay In Venice

We stayed at Hotel Ala, and I could not recommend anywhere more! It felt so fancy for the price we paid, and was located right in the centre of the city so it was really easy to head back to through out the day! It also has an amazing rooftop where you can see the entire city from above. You can order drinks to here from the bar, or bring your own.

• Take a gondola ride
• Saint Mark’s Square and Basilica di San Marco
• The Rialto Bridge
• The Grand Canal
• Burano Island – super colourful old fishing town
• Palazzo Contarini de Bovolo

Day 2: The day in Mantova

Otherwise known as Mantua, this beautiful town is located in Lombardy, around a 2 hour drive North West of Venice. The city is known for its Old Town, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site! Mantova Basilica safeguards the vessels holding soil soaked by the blood of Christ, it is said that Longinus, the Roman soldier that speared Jesus on the cross, carried the soil from Palestine to Mantova and buried it here. So because of this, the city has quite a big religious history. Every year they throw a big parade where they honour the remains in the church.

The Old Town is really beautiful to walk around, especially in the late afternoon when all the restaurants and cafes are bustling with Aperitivo!

Where To Stay In Mantova

We stayed at Residensa Accamedia, it was a little random because the studio itself didn’t have a reception so you had to go to a different hotel to get the keys and then walk around to the apartments. But it was a really nice spot in the centre of the city, with a courtyard and an outside area!

Cost: €60 a night for a double room.

What to visit in Mantova:

• Ducale Palace
• Basilica di Sant’Andrea
• St George’s Castle
• Mantua Cathedral
• Take a walk along the canal

Where to Eat in Mantova, Italy

The best places in mantova for aperitivo.

Aperitivo is a time, usually between 4 and 6pm, where you go to a restaurant for a drink and usually get a plate of food or a snack bar included! This is THE BEST way to save money while you are travelling and still be able to live in luxury!

We loved Bar Venezia – with every Aperol Spritz we got a bowl of potato chips and a selection of canapes! They have a really beautiful outside area too!

We also stopped at Pane al Pane for breakfast and they had the most delicious sandwiches, pastries and home made pizzas!

The Best Restaurant in Mantova

We had such a hard time deciding between where to eat dinner, but we ended up at Ristorante Hosteria Leon d’Oro and it was DELICIOUS! We both had pasta dishes that are local to the area combined with a local wine and it was just perfect! I would recommend this place 100%!

Local Delicacies From Mantova

When we left our apartment, we were given a Torta Sbrisolona, a sort of Almond Oat Cake, famous to Lombardy! It’s something they sell in most shops and cafes and is something to try if you want to try the local culture.

Day 3: Visit San Marino

We hadn’t really planned to add this into our itinerary until a few weeks before our trip when we became totally obsessed with San Marino in the Eurovision song content. Serhat’s 2019 entry “Say Na Na Na” was something we sung non stop for weeks before and kind of persuaded us to visit San Marino. We spent the entire drive into the country listening to this song on repeat!

But in all seriousness, San Marino is a beautiful place to visit! It is a small country, completely surrounded by Italy, that is often forgotten by travellers in this region! The capital city, also called San Marino, sits on top of a big hill, surrounded by a hilly green landscape.

The Top Things To Do In San Marino

The majority of the best things to do are inside the Capital City. The best way to get here is to either park at the bottom of the city and take the cable car up, or drive up the hill and park in the massive multi story car park at the top!

When you arrive at the city, you are given a map with all the top sights, museums and walks on. The best way to explore San Marino from here is to walk up main pathway into the city and follow it around until you reach Monte Titano at the top of the hill!

Day 4: Visit the historical city of Urbino

Urbino is a quite a big, walled city in the West of Italy, just South of San Marino. It is a city with so much culture, as well as beauty! It’s worth spending a few days here so you can have time to explore the city, visit all the museums and spend time at the restaurants and markets! We really loved just strolling around the city, down all the narrow backstreets, enjoying the small town feel of it! This is a great stop for any Italy road trip if you want to discover a bit more of the culture of the land.

Where To Stay in Urbino

We stayed at Residenza Ambrogi , a luxury B&B just a few minutes walk from the city centre! It was quite expensive (€80 a night) but it was so beautiful! The lady who owned it was really lovely and brought us coffee and chocolate when we arrived. Breakfast was included, a variety of cold meats, breads, eggs, juices, and home made cakes! It really was amazing!

What to do in Urbino:

Palazzo Ducale di Urbino

Urbino Cathedral

Galleria Nazionale delle Marche

The Best Restaurants In Urbino

Where to have aperitivo in italy.

We spent pretty much the whole afternoon in Urbino having Aperitivo, stopping at so many different restaurants to compare them! Our favourites were actually Caffè Degli Archi and Caffè Basili, two cafes right next to each other opposite Istituto Nazionale Previdenza Sociale. They both had a really great view and the drinks were delicious and cheap!

The best restaurants in Urbino

After much deliberation, wee ended up eating at Osteria Km 0 , a small hole in the wall restaurant that didn’t look like much, but the food and the service were both amazing!

We really wanted to eat at Tartufi Antiche Bontà but unfortunately it was closed on the night we were there! We have heard so many good reviews from here!

Day 5: Drive around Urbino and Tuscany

Visit gola del furlo.

Gola Del Furlo is not a town, it is a beautiful green gorge that runs via the Ancient Roman Road Via Flaminia. It is such a pretty place to stop, or even just drive past!

Lago Trasimeno

I have actually been here twice – once on this road trip, and once around 15 years ago on a family holiday! When we first went, we found a beautiful spot where you could hire a pedalo and swim around! When we stopped their this time, we just found a small harbour at the end of a town where we sat and ate lunch and watched a storm roll in over the horizon! It was really beautiful!

Church of San Biagio

This is a really big, beautiful church on the outskirts of Montepulciano, Tuscany. You have to pay to go inside, but it is even worth visiting just to walk around the outside! The drive here is also so beautiful, the landscape is all rolling yellow and green hills, just like you imagine Tuscany to be!

Bagni San Filippo – Picturesque Hot Springs just outside of Manciano, Tuscany

These are beautiful hot springs, about an hours drive out of Manciano! The area itself is about 400m long, different pools and waterfalls along the stretch making an amazing set of natural pools!

They are free to visit but you do have to pay for parking! The road down is often packed with cars so you should park as soon as you find a spot to avoid having to drive back up to the top! It gets really busy here in the summer time but if you go in the late afternoon or early morning you are more likely to have a pool to yourself!

Day 6: Visit Manciano

We arrived in Manciano quite late and didn’t really get so much time to explore! The main reason we stayed here was to visit Terme di Saturnia for the sunrise, when we knew it would not be busy! However, we ended up having so much fun at Bagni San Filippo, that we decided not to bother as we knew it was incredibly touristy! I hope to go back another year through!

If you are looking to visit Terme di Saturnia , it is about a 20 minute drive outside of Manciano. I have heard the best time to visit is in the morning as there are much less people around then!

Where To Stay In Manciano

We stayed at the most incredible B&B in Manciano! Casale Giacomini , was more of a farm stay than a hotel, located on a big property just outside the town. The owners were Italian, with very little English, but they were both such beautiful people! Breakfast was included in the morning, and we ended up making good friends with the other guests staying there too as we shared an intimate breakfast table!

The garden is picturesque with the best view of Manciano. This was the best place we stayed between Venice and Rome and this alone made me want to do this Italy road trip every year!

The Best Pizza In Manciano

We just got takeaway pizza from Osée , which was a circus themed pizzeria just inside the town! The pizza was so tasty! We ended up just having their speciality, a flavour that won 2nd best pizza in the world 2001.

Visit the historical city of Pitigliano

Before driving to Rome, a great place to stop is the ancient city of Pitigliano. Pitigliano is an fairytale city, located on top of a sharp cliff with big city walls. It’s history dates back to prehistoric era, and there are also so many Etruscan and Roman traces to be seen. As you drive into the city you are met with rows of houses carved into the edge of a cliff.

Our favourite thing to do here was just walk around the city, exploring the sites of old ruins, and getting lost down narrow alleyways! If you are into history, there are so many museums and ruins here that are worth visiting!

We didn’t spend much time here, just stopping for a coffee and a walk on our way down to Rome, but I would love to go back in the future and really dive into the cultural side of the city!

Rounding off Venice to Rome: Road Trip through Tuscany, Italy

I hope you enjoyed this guide to the ultimate Italy road trip from Venice to Rome! And I hope that it can help you in your future travels!

If you have any questions of places that I should add next time we make the trip I would love to hear!

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You’ll Also Love

May 26, 2020 at 2:44 pm

I would love a road trip across Italy 🙂 so this blog is perfect for me. Thank you for sharing all these great tips.

May 28, 2020 at 7:01 am

It was genuinely the best trip I have done! You will love it!

May 27, 2020 at 5:41 pm

Doing a road trip in Italy is serious goals! Would LOVE to do that 🙂 Also your photos are amazing Katie!

May 28, 2020 at 7:03 am

THANKS! This was one of my favourite trips I have ever done, I think it should be on top of everyones bucket list! 🙂

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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

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 Mar 18, 2019 and updated May 15, 2023.

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Venice Revealed

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

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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.

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One Week Venice To Milan Itinerary

Are you planning a 7 day road trip from Venice to Milan in northern Italy and looking for the perfect one week itinerary? You’re in luck!

This popular tourist route is only a 3 hour drive. But it’s packed with some of Italy’s top landmarks, including medieval UNESCO towns, ornate palazzos, Roman ruins, and secret hidden gems of the Renaissance. There’s no shortage of amazing attractions to explore along the way.

Starting in Venice, this northern Italy road trip assumes you’ve already taken in the heady attractions of the world’s most romantic floating city and are ready to explore more of Italy.

If you haven’t yet visited Venice, no problem! Check out my detailed 2 days in Venice itinerary to add to your northern Italy road trip. Adding this itinerary will extend your trip from 7 days to 9 days.

If you were put off by the crowds in Venice, consider stopping in Treviso before departing. This authentic canal city boasts picturesque canals, lovely frescoed buildings, and ancient churches. Treviso is a charming destination that’s well worth a visit.

Overview of Seven Days In Northern Italy

Here’s a quick snapshot of what you’ll see on this week road trip itinerary from Venice to Milan:

• Day 1 : Leave Venice, stop in Padua and Vicenza, overnight in Verona
• Day 2 : Explore Verona, overnight in Verona
• Day 3 : From Verona, day trip to Mantua
• Day 4 : Drive to Brescia, stopping in Sirmione on the way, overnight in Brescia
• Day 5 : Explore Brescia, overnight in Brescia
• Day 6 : Drive to Bergamo, explore Bergamo, overnight in Milan
• Day 7 : Explore Milan, overnight in Milan
• In this Venice to Milan travel itinerary, you’ll have three bases: Verona (3 nights), Brescia (2 nights), and Milan (2 nights).

One Week Itinerary From Venice To Milan

Here is my recommended route for a one week road trip in northern Italy.

Day 1: Visit Padua and Vicenza en route to Verona

Get up bright and early. Head to Venice’s Piazzale Roma to rent a car. AutoEurope usually has the best deals. It’s much cheaper if you drive a clutch transmission.

Get the smallest car you can for Italy’s narrow medieval roads. Today, you’ll stop at Padua and/or Vicenza en route from Venice to Verona.

READ : Tips For Driving in Europe

If you don’t want to make two stops, simply pick the town that appeals to you the most. If you love Renaissance art, choose Padua. If you love architecture, choose Vicenza. To help you decide, you can check out my one day in Padua itinerary and my guide to the best things to do in Vicenza .

Approximate Driving Times:

• Venice to Padua: 45 minutes
• Padua to Vicenza: 40 minutes
• Vicenza to Verona: 45 minutes

1. Padua: Giotto Frescos

Padua is a pretty university town outside Venice. Padua boasts one of the greatest treasures in Western art, the Scrovegni Chapel.

It’s also known as the Arena Chapel. Honestly, it’s worth a trip to Padua just to see this one attraction.

Wallpapered with exquisite frescos by Giotto, the Scrovegni Chapel is a precious masterpiece of Italian art.

Giotto painted a cycle of 39 frescos depicting the lives of Mary and Jesus in 1303-05. It’s as stunning in person as the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican Museums .

Giotto was the greatest painter of the 14th century. His Scrovegni frescos were a watershed moment in art history. Because of its naturalism, the chapel is considered one of the first examples of “modern art” and profoundly influenced subsequent Renaissance painters.

Visiting the Scrovegni Chapel can be a complicated affair. It’s a strictly controlled site with admission limitations and a “decontamination” process.

Here’s my complete visitor’s guide to the Scrovegni Chapel , with must know tips for visiting and getting tickets. Click here to book a guided 2 hour tour of Padua and the chapel.

While in Padua, you also need to visit the Basilica of Saint Anthony , nicknamed Il Santo . The exterior is strongly influenced by the bulbous clustered domes of St. Mark’s Basilica in Venice . The interior is pure Gothic, austere and rather bleak. Its highlight is sculptures by Donatello.

If you’re a fan of the famed Early Renaissance artist Andrea Mantegna , pop into the hidden gem of the Church of the Eremitani .

This was where Mantegna shot to fame with frescos he painted in the church. Many were bombed during WWII. But some survive.

2. Vicenza: Palladian Architecture

If you’re an architecture fan, Vicenza will appeal. Vicenza is variously known as the “Pearl of the Renaissance,” the “Gold City,” and the “City of Palladio.” It’s one of Italy’s most beautiful towns .

Vicenza was home to celebrated Venetian architect Andrea Palladio. The town is like an open air architecture museum. Vicenza has loads of historic buildings, including its own Duomo.

Be sure to stroll down the Corso Andrea Palladio, a homage to the famous architect. See Palladio’s beautiful Basilica Palladiana in the center of the Piazza dei Signori. The basilica also houses a museum with a fantastic collection of relics and artifacts.

Equally stunning is Palladio’s Olympic Theater with intact original stage sets. The Olympic Theater is one of only three remaining Renaissance theaters in Italy. It may be Palladio’s masterpiece.

A cruise down the Brenta Canal passes Palladio’s famous Villa La Malcontenta, aka Villa Foscari. It’s a UNESCO-listed site and beautiful well-preserved jewel. House & Garden Magazine called it “the most beautiful house in the world.”

It’s only open 2 days per week, so check the website for times, entry fees, and how to get there.

According to legend, the mansion was called the “unhappy” villa because it was a “prison” for a noblewoman accused of infidelity by her jealous husband. More likely, it just suffered from the flooding of the River Brenta.

Here’s my complete guide to the best things and see in Vicenza . You might want to book a 2.5 hour  walking tour of Palladio’s masterpieces  or a  1.5 hour walking tour with a local .

Day 2: Explore Verona: Medieval Romance

This pretty Italian town is full of red and peach colored medieval buildings and Roman ruins. Verona was made famous by Shakespeare’s play Romeo and Juliet and The Two Men of Verona . And it’s a fitting site for a high octane infusion of romance.

You may want to book a 2 hour guided walking tour to get oriented. Or a longer walking tour that includes food and wine .

Juliet’s House , or Casa de Giulietta, is a gorgeous 14th Gothic building in Verona. But, like the fictional love story, Juliet’s House is itself a fiction. It wasn’t owned by the Capulets.

Juliet’s House is really a manufactured site, scorned by hard core skeptics. Nonetheless, the character of Juliet is a rarified symbol of love in an often cynical world. Juliet’s Wall is covered with notes, scribbles, and love letters.

Once you’ve made the obligatory Juliet pilgrimmage, you’ll want to tour the doughty Roman Arena, the Arena di Verona, in the Piazza Bra.

It’s the third largest classical arena in Italy, after Rome’s Colosseum and Capua’s Colosseum.

You should also stroll through Verona’s picturesque piazzas — the Piazza dei Signori (with a statue of Dante) and the Piazza delle Erbe (with a statue of another poet, Barbarani).

Visit the Church of San Zeno Maggiore, where Romeo and Juliet were fictionally married. And cross the absolutely stunning Ponte Pietra stone bridge.

At sunset, make the calorie-burning climb of 100,000 steps to the viewing platform at Piazzale Castel San Pietro. There’s also a funicular to get you there.

You’ll have breathtaking panoramic views over Verona’s skyline. On the way down, you could stop for dinner at Trattoria Dal Rapeton.

For Verona, I recommend staying at the Hotel Aurora . You’ll have sweeping city views from the hotel terrace, which looks out on San Zeno.

Another great option is Due Torri Hotel , a modern luxury hotel with a vintage feel. The Grand Hotel Des Arts is a beautiful understated hotel near the Plaza Bra.

For dinner, try Restaurant Il Desco or Casa Perbellini (Michelin-starred), Vecio Macello (seafood), or Trattoria Dal Gal (homemade pastas).

Day 3: Day Trip to Mantua: Renaissance Realm of the Gonzaga Dynasty

On day 3 of your Venice to Milan itinerary, visit the captivating Renaissance town of Mantua . It’s only a 30 minute drive from Verona. I would plan on a full day there and you can check out my one day in Mantua itinerary .

Italy is usually overflowing with tourists. But in the tiny undiscovered village of Mantua the world is still and quiet. Mantua must surely be one of Europe’s best kept secrets .

Mantua is surrounded by three lakes and filled with artistic masterpieces. Its historic center is a designated UNESCO site. Mantua is the perfect place for strolling — with arcaded streets, cobbled lanes, pretty piazzas, and graceful buildings.

What makes Mantua especially dreamy is its incredible Renaissance art and architecture, courtesy of the aristocratic Gonzaga family who ruled Mantua for four centuries.

Here, you’ll find the sprawling Ducal Palace, the magnificent over-the-top Te Palace , the Basilica of Sant’Andrea, the Teatro Bivbiena, and the Rotunda of San Lorenzo.

For a tiny place, it’s just amazing. You may want to book a  2 hour guided walking tour  for an overview. 

The Basilica of Sant’Andrea is a milestone church of the Renaissance. Ludovico Gonzaga hired famed architect Leon Battista Alberti to design a classically inspired church.

The church had to be grand enough to house one of Christianity’s most precious relics, the blood of Christ. The famous “blood of Mantua” is contained in a set of sacred vessels in the crypt below the central nave of the basilica.

One of Mantua’s most renowned attractions is the Ducal Palace, also known as Palazzo Ducale. It’s the second largest residential building in Europe, only after the Vatican.

This massive fortress-like residence boasts 600 ornate rooms, complete with gilded, frescoed, and marbled finishes, and is crowned by the stunning Hall of Mirrors.

But the real highlight of the palace is the Camera degli Sposi , created by the great artist Andrea Mantegna. To visit this illusionary frescoed room, you’ll need to book a timed entry ticket separately.

The Camera is famous for being the first trompe l’oeil design in Western art, and it has had a profound influence on the decoration of ceilings ever since. A visit to the Palazzo Ducale and the Camera degli Sposi is a must-see for any art lover.

You may want to book a guided tour of the Ducal Palace. You can book this  2 hour tour of the palace  or a  3 hour walking tour that incudes the palace .

You’ve also got to cast your eyes on the swishy Te Palace . It’s one of the world’s most beautiful and unique buildings. To get there, take the Via Principe Amedeo from the town center and walk for 20 minutes.

This historic building was the summer residence of the Gonzaga family. Te Palace was built for the pleasure loving son of Isabella d’Este, Frederico II Gonzaga. He fancied himself a Dionysis type, and blinged up the palace with sybaritic frescos.

The palace was designed and decorated by Raphael pupil, Giulio Romano. The must see rooms are the Hall of the Horses (portraits of the Gonzaga’s prize winning horses), the Hall of Amor and Psyche (erotic paintings), and the staggering Hall of the Giants (colossal scale frescos with a virtual reality vibe).

Click  here  to book a 1.5 hour guided tour of the magnificent Te Palace.

Mantua has some unique local delicacies you should sample. Mantua’s signature dish is a sweet pumpkin filled tortelli de zucca , laced with amoretto. Another specialty is mostarda, a candied fruit spiced with mustard essence and pepper.

For dessert, you’ll find Sbrisolona cake in almost every shop. It’s made with flour, sugar, almonds and butter — a delicious caloric bomb. Wash it all down with sparkling Lambrusco.

Day 4: Drive to Brescia, Stopping in Sirmione

The drive from Verona to Brescia on day 4 is about one hour. That leaves you plenty of time to stop and explore the pretty town of Sirmione on the way.

Sirmione sits at the end of a narrow peninsula jutting into Lake Garda, the largest lake in northern Italy.

Sirmione is known as “the pearl of the islands and peninsulas.” Oleander, cypress, and palm trees mix into the foliage. You can come here to loaf or to inspect ruins.

When you’re approaching Sirmione, look for signs for the “centro historic.” There are plenty of paid car parks outside the town’s historic core. But get as close as you can. Be forewarned, in high season Sirmione will be thronged with tourists.

If you want to relax and enjoy the beauty of Sirmione, you could wile away your day at the thermal baths, hike on the lakeside trails, or take a boat tour.

For history buffs, a visit to Sirmione’s Roman ruins is a must. These ruins contain the best-preserved Roman public buildings in northern Italy.

Additionally, the Grottoes of Catullus is an archaeological site that features the ruins of a villa that is said to have belonged to the famous Roman poet Catullus.

Sirmione’s most iconic attraction, however, is Rocca Scaligero. This unforgettable fortress dominates the town’s medieval skyline and was built in the 13th century by the Scaligero family of Verona.

Completely surrounded by a navigable moat, the square-cut castle boasts impressive walls and turrets made of pale rustic stone. Its crenellated battlements are topped with red accents, and it’s said that even the famous poet Dante stayed in the castle.

From the sweeping cobbled courtyard, steel staircases lead to the first turret, where visitors can take in stunning panoramic views of the town. For an even more spectacular view, visitors can climb the 146 steps to the tallest tower. If you’re looking for an unforgettable sightseeing experience in Sirmione, Rocca Scaligero is not to be missed.

Day 5: Explore Brescia: a Double Cathedral Town

Nestled at the foot of the Alps just a few miles from Lake Como, Brescia is a beautiful secret gem in Europe. It’s chock full of impressive monuments and UNESCO sites.

Your first point of call is Piazza Paolo VI, formerly called Piazza del Duomo. The square holds not one but two cathedrals.

The Old Cathedral, locally known as Duomo Vecchio or La Rotunda, is truly incredible. Building began in the 11th century, with much subsequent construction. It’s a rare example of a circular-plan Romanesque basilica.

The New Cathedral, with Baroque and Neo-Classical designs, was built in the 17th and 18th centuries. It boasts one of Italy’s biggest domes, reminiscent of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome .

Piazza della Loggia is another beautiful and elegant square. It’s surrounded with Venetian style buildings, including the Renaissance Palazzo della Loggia and an astrological clock. Like the Palazzo Pubblico in Siena , it was intended to be an emblem of good government.

Another must see site in Brescia is the Capitoline Temple, built by Emperor Vespasian in 73 A.D. It was dedicated to the gods Juno, Jupiter, and Minerva. The temple was mostly destroyed in the 4th century and only rediscovered in 1823. Six of the ancient columns still stand. A Roman Theater is just a few yards away.

If you want to stay in the center of Brescia, consider the Hotel Sirmione. If you want to relax in the countryside, consider staying at the L’Albereta near Lake Iseo. Charming with service par excellence, it’s a private enclave in Ebrusco with a state of the art spa that attracts fashionistas from Milan.

If you’re a foodie, Brescia boasts nine Michelin-starred restaurants, including Lanzani Bottega & Bitrot, Il Labirinto, Carne & Spirito, and Castello Malvezzi. If you want to dine in a 17th century palazzo, try La Sosta. Brescia is also known for its yummy bubbly sparkling wines.

Day 6: Drive to Bergamo, explore and overnight in Milan

On day 6 of your Venice to Milan itinerary, head to the medieval town of Bergamo. It’s massive defensive walls are a UNESCO-listed site.

Bergamo is just 30 minutes away from Brescia, located between Milan and Lake Como. Bergamo outshines Italy’s capital in beauty and graceful architecture. It’s a fascinating historical city, with a handsome walled old town.

Bergamo has an upper and lower city. Naturally, the upper city, or Citta Alta, is the older Renaissance-y part of town. Start off with a walk around the 16th century Venetian Walls. The vibrant center of Bergamo is Piazza Vecchia. There, you’ll find every manner of shop, cafe, and restaurant.

The other must see square is the Piazza del Duomo. Walk through the archways of the Palazzo della Ragione and you’ll reach it.

The square boasts the beautiful Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. Go inside! You enter through a portico with Venetian lions into an extravaganza of Baroque gilding and Renaissance tapestries.

To the right of the basilica lies the even more impressive Colleoni Chapel. The church sports a pink and white marble facade

Inside there’s a remarkable 15th century chapel.It’s a combination of Renaissance, Mannerist, and Baroque architectural elements. The chapel is one of the finest Renaissance buildings in the Lombardy region.

Besides its beautiful architecture, Bergamo is famous for polenta. Every restaurant serves up some incarnation of polenta. Bergamo even does it for dessert — Polenta e Osei, a cake made to look like polenta.

In Bergamo, you can book a guided walking tour or a guided food tour .

Day 7: Explore Milan

Milan is an amazing destination in northern Italy. It’s a vibrant and exciting modern city, the thriving finance and fashion capital of Italy. Milan has a serious arts scene, breathtaking sites, and gastronomical delights.

Milan is not “an industrial city,” as the uninitiated claim. Milan has personality, combining old world charm and modern “bright lights, big city” flair in compelling fashion.

You can’t help but be dazzled by Milan’s architecture, historic sites, iconic art, and foodie scene.

Milan is most well known for its massive Gothic Duomo, Sforza Castle, and as the home of Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper .

The flamboyant Gothic Duomo is the third largest in Europe after St. Peter’s Basilica and Seville Cathedral. The most memorable part of a Duomo visit is wandering among the forest of spires and statues on the rooftop.

Click  here  to pre-book a must have skip the line ticket for both the Duomo and the rooftop terrace. When you arrive at the Duomo, make sure to get in the fast track line. Click  here  to book a ticket + guided tour of the duomo.

In any event, I won’t repeat myself. Here’s my one day in Milan itinerary to make the most out of your time there. It also includes must know tips on what to see/eat/do in Milan and where to stay in Milan.

And here’s my complete guide to Leonardo’s The Last Supper and how to see this Renaissance masterpiece. This is another attraction you have to book well in advance .

READ: Guide To All of Leonardo da Vinci’s Paintings

Tips for Driving in Italy

If you’re driving be sure to keep cash on you. You’ll have to pay every time you use a motorway based on the distance driven.

You’ll collect a ticket each time you enter a motorway and then pay each time you exit based on the information on your ticket. No credit cards are accepted, so be prepared.

If you prefer to travel by train, I’ve written about train travel tips in Italy in this guide to day trips by train from Florence .

READ : General Tips for Visiting Italy

More Time in Northern Italy?

Do you have extra time after finishing your Venice to Milan itinerary?

From Milan, head to the Italian Lake District for a few days. The Italian lake district is one of Italy’s prettiest regions, situated in the shadow of the Alps. The main lakes are Lake Como, Lake Garda, and Lake Maggiore.

Visiting the Lake District is easier by car. Otherwise, you’ll spend a lot of time on buses, trains, and ferries getting there and around.

Though, once you’re there, driving in the narrow winding roads (for example, in Bellagio) is a challenge.

You can also book a guided tour. This day tour from Milan takes you to Lake Como. This half day tou r takes you to Lake Maggiore. You can even book a 4 day tour from Milan that covers all the lakes and Verona.

Most people settle in at the swishiest villages, magical Bellagio or understatedly elegant Varenna on Lake Como. Lake Como is famous for its beauty, its palazzi, its mansions, the picture perfect medieval towns, and mountainous backdrop.

But northern Italy’s other lakes — Garda, Maggiore, Orta, Iseo — are just as scenic and less crowded. Lake Garda is a place of faded elegance.

Lake Maggiore is home to the pretty town of Stresa. Lake Iseo is a hidden oasis and a nature lover’s paradise. Here’s a good guide to the Italian lake district.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my one week itinerary for road tripping from Venice to Milan. You may enjoy these other Italy travel guides and resources:

• 10 Day Itinerary for Italy
• 10 Day Itinerary for Tuscany
• 7 Ways To Spend 1 Week in Italy
• 10 Day Itinerary from Milan to Rome
• 35+ Historic Landmarks in Italy
• 30 Most Beautiful Towns in Italy
• 5 Day Itinerary for Rome
• 3 Day Itinerary for Florence
• 2 Day Itinerary for Venice
• 1 Day Itinerary for Milan
• 1 Day Itinerary for Siena

If you’d need a Venice to Milan itinerary, pin it for later.

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Last Updated on April 17, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

Day Trips from Venice, Italy – Over 35 Unmissable Destinations with Travel Times, Sightseeing Plans, and Best Tours

By Author Rossi Thomson

Posted on Last updated: 4th September 2022

Categories Day Trips in Italy , Veneto , Venice

Here are the best day trips from Venice, Italy.

In this blog post, you will find over 35 unmissable destinations that you can easily visit from the city of water. you can travel independently either by train, bus, boat or car. alternatively, you can join an organised tour..

Venice has a lot to offer to the curious traveller eager to experience the best in art, history, and architecture. Still, if you have more than a couple of days at your disposal for Venice, then make sure that you set aside some time to discover what lies in the Venetian Lagoon and on the Italian mainland.

It is a great opportunity to change the scenery and see more of Italy and who wouldn’t like that?!

Venice is a great starting point for your exploration of the sights and beauty of Northern Italy . The city of water enjoys great connections by boat , road , and train to a number of must-see destinations. From the islands of Murano and Burano in the Venetian Lagoon to the cities of history and art – Padua , Bologna , Verona , and even Florence – there are many places near Venice to visit on a day trip.

So, these are my suggestions for the best day trips from Venice, Italy. I have personally visited each of these places of interest during the six years that I spent living in Italy. Here I share with you first-hand tried and tested information so that you can choose where to travel for a short trip from Venice based on your personal preferences.

Italy is an exciting country with a rich heritage. The more you see the more you want to see and to experience it all. So, take your pick according to your interests – art, nature, architecture, history, shopping, even spa and wellness!

For ease of use, I have split these Venice day trips into the following alphabetised categories:

• Islands in the Venetian Lagoon
• Cities and Towns
• Lake Garda with Lakeside Towns and World-Class Amusement Parks
• Sights of Natural Beauty
• Medieval Towns and Villages
• Venetian Villas

For each of these best day trips from Venice I have included:

• a photo  to give you a visual idea what to expect;
• for the larger destinations – a shortlist with the most important sights  that can be seen in a day;
• for the smaller destinations – a concise overview ;
• travel times  by train, coach, boat, and/or car if you are travelling independently;
• organised tours if you prefer to have it all planned and done for you by a professional guide;
• tips how to make the most of your time at every destinations;
• (where available) links to  detailed overviews and exciting videos  to help you organise your day trip. The videos are hosted on  my blog’s Facebook page . If you haven’t liked it yet, I would really appreciate it if you could!

The maximum travel time is three hours one way. However, most destinations in this list are within half an hour to two hours away from Venice. After all, no one wants to spend a large chunk of the day just getting there when there is so much to see and do within very close proximity to the city on water.

At the end of this blog post, I have also added a selection of tips to help you navigate the Italian railway and road systems like a local. This way you can easily organise your day trip from Venice and feel at ease taking a boat, riding the train or renting a car as you see fit.

Now, let’s start!

Day trips from venice, italy – over 35 unmissable destinations with travel times, sightseeing plans, and best tours, i. islands in the venetian lagoon.

While Venice is the unrivalled star of the Venetian Lagoon, close to the city on water you will find several other islands that are worth a visit. Easy to reach on board of the vaporetti (water buses) that crisscross the lagoon from early in the morning til late in the evening, these islands will reveal to you their own stories, local crafts, priceless works of art, and wonderful settings.

Here are five unmissable island destinations to see on a day trip in the Venetian Lagoon. Each of them is unique in many different ways. From the colourful houses of Burano to the fish markets of Chioggia, there are many discoveries to be made right next door to Venice to leave you with memories that last a lifetime.

The best bit is that you can easily visit two or more of the Venetian Lagoon islands on the same day. Either independently or as part of an organised tour, they are a pleasure to discover in any season on a day trip from Venice.

Click here to buy a vaporetto ticket valid from 1 to 7 days so that you can move freely within the city of Venice, reach the islands in the Venetian Lagoon, and different parts of the mainland. For organised tours from Venice to the most beautiful and interesting islands in the lagoon, see the suggestions below.

1. Venice to Burano Day Trip

Burano is one of the most famous islands in the Venetian Lagoon on account of its technicolour houses and the centuries-old local tradition of handmade lace. Just looking at a photo of Burano makes you want to see for yourself this wonderful vibrant island that is so full of life.

It is easy to reach Burano from Venice. You just need to hop on vaporetto line number 12 from Fondamente Nove to the island.

Here are some of Burano’s major sights for you to explore and enjoy on a day trip from Venice:

• Lace Museum – discover the roots and the pinnacles of Burano famous handmade lace in this small and neat museum. It opens your eyes and your heart to this centuries-old craft. Click here to buy a combined ticket for the Lace Musem on Burano and the Glass Museum on Murano – a great idea if you are visiting both islands.
• Church of San Martino – a 16th-century church with a 17th-century bell tower that is 53 m tall and leans almost two metres off-true.
• Bepe’s House – this is the most colourful house on the island of Burano. It is covered with stripes and geometric figures in vibrant shades. You will find Bepe’s House down a tiny side street. His original owner – Bepe (now sadly passed away) – loved repainting his house and on warm summer evenings would screen old films on the small square next to it.
• Lunch on risotto de go’ and snack on esse cookies. The former is Burano’s staple dish – a lovely, creamy risotto made with the juice of go’ – a tiny fish from the Venetian Lagoon. The latter are Burano’s traditional cookies which can be either round or S-shaped and have a deeply satisfying flavour.

For its riot of colours, peaceful side streets, wonderful lace traditions, and fresh seafood, Burano is an unmissable day trip from Venice.

Travel Times:  Around 40 mins by vaporetto (water bus) from Fondamente Nove in Venice. Click here to buy a vaporetto ticket valid from 1 to 7 days.

Best Organised Tours:

Tips:  Starting from Burano, you can easily visit several other islands in the Venetian Lagoon. The island of Mazzorbo, for example, is connected to Burano via a long wooden bridge. The islands of Torcello and Murano are an easy vaporetto ride away. Alternatively, you can hire a boat and head to the island of San Francesco del Deserto to visit the monastery there that was originally founded by St. Francis in 1220.   

Click here for further information:

• Photos of Burano here and here
• Photos of Mazzorbo here and here

2. Venice to Chioggia Day Trip

Chioggia is like a mini Venice but without the suffocating tourist crowds.

A city built on islands at the southern end of the Venetian Lagoon, a long bridge connects Chioggia to the mainland. Canals full of boats crisscross the city. Pastel houses draped with Italy’s most photogenic clotheslines line the streets.

Just walking around feels like a real treat. You pass by many churches full of priceless works of art, small restaurants serving the freshest seafood, and everywhere you look picturesque views open in front of your eyes.

Here are some suggestions for things to do in Chioggia:

• Boat trip  – take a tour boat for a fun ride around Chioggia in the Venetian Lagoon. Regular boat tours run through the day taking you close to several sights of historic and cultural value in the lagoon.
• Wholesale Fish Market  and  Retail Fish Markets  – Chioggia is one of the biggest and oldest fishing ports in Italy. Its wholesale and retail fish markets are lively places where tons of fresh seafood are sold daily. Make sure that you check the  opening times  in advance to make sure you are there at the right time. 
• Bell Tower of Sant’Andrea  and  Clock Tower Museum  – Chioggia claims to have the world’s oldest clock. See it on the facade of the 30-meter high Bell Tower of Sant’Andrea. Then visit the Clock Tower Museum inside the bell tower to see the clock’s mechanism and to learn its fascinating story.
• Museum of Southern Lagoon  – an ethnographic and archaeologic museum tracing the history of Chioggia through the centuries. 
• Museum of Adriatic Zoology  – here you can see the most important historical collection of marine animals from the Adriatic Sea.
• Duomo di Santa Maria Assunta  – Chioggia’s main church.
• Refugium Peccatorum  (also known as  Sagraeto ) – A statue of the Virgin Mary holding the Infant Jesus underneath a golden dome. It stands at  Piazzale Perotolo  just outside Chioggia’s Duomo.  Refugium Peccatorum  is a Roman Catholic title of the Virgin Mary. It means Refuge for Sinners. In the past, those condemned to death in Chioggia were allowed to stop in front of this statue of the Virgin and pray for their souls on the way to the scaffold. 
• Porta di Santa Maria  (also known as  Porta Garibaldi ) – an early 16th-century gate that in the past provided the only entry point into Chioggia.
• Corso del Popolo  – Chioggia’s main artery – a wide and beautiful street that is lined with shops, restaurants, palaces, and churches. 
• Ponte Vigo  – the prettiest bridge in Chioggia stands over Canal Vena – the city’s most important canal – and it opens beautiful views over the Venetian Lagoon. From the adjacent to the bridge Piazzetta Vigo, you can get a tour boat for a fun trip around Chioggia and a ferry to the nearby island of Pellestrina.
• Sottomarina  – a lively suburb of Chioggia with a sandy beach that is 10 km long and up to 300 m wide. The sand is rich in augite, quartz, silicates, and micaceous elements making the beach ideal for sand bathing treatment.

Come to Chioggia if you want more of Venice but at a much slower and gentile pace of life. This small town on the Italian Adriatic coast is older than Venice and just like it is criss-crossed by canals. Chioggia is full of character, easy to navigate even by car, with tons of fresh seafood, huge beaches within a very close reach and, above all, there are no maddening crowds. You can take it easy and observe the locals at what they have been doing for centuries: fishing, lacemaking and seafood selling, cooking and eating. When in Chioggia, don’t miss the following sights and experiences:

Chioggia will give you a good idea of what Venice would have been like today had it not become a maritime and commercial powerhouse centuries ago. This city in Veneto is full of character, easy to navigate, and with tons of fresh seafood. There are huge beaches within a very close reach, and, above all, there are no maddening crowds.

In Chioggia, you can take it easy and observe the locals at what they have been doing for centuries: fishing and lacemaking. All in all, it’s a great destination for a city break or a day trip in this corner of Italy. 

Travel Times: Around mins by vaporetto (water bus) from Fondamente Nove in Venice. Click here to buy a vaporetto ticket valid from 1 to 7 days.

Chioggia will give you a good idea of what Venice would have been like today had it not become a maritime and commercial powerhouse centuries ago.

Travel Times: Getting from Venice to Chioggia by train is a long and tiring trip. Go there by boat instead. Take the No. 11 vaporetto or water bus from the Lido S.M.E. (the main Lido vaporetto stop) to Chioggia’s historic center and you will be enjoying the beautiful vistas of the Venetian Lagoon all through the journey. Or you can take the bus which leaves from Piazzale Roma in Venice and takes 1 h 11 mins to reach the beaches of Sottomarina. This website has very detailed information about reaching Chioggia from different points in Venice.

Tips:  For more information about what to do and see in Chioggia, click here to read my article about this charming fishing town.

3. Venice to Lido Day Trip

4. venice to murano day trip, 5. venice to torcello day trip, ii. cities and towns.

Italy is blessed with some of the most beautiful and interesting in terms of art, history, and traditions cities and towns in the world.

Finding yourself in Venice with time to spare you will feel like a child in a huge playground – super excited and a bit lost where to start your day tripping from.

My suggestion is to explore the nearby main cities first. Especially, if you are in Venice for a short amount of time.

Your top options are Padua, Vicenza, Verona, Bassano del Grappa, Ferrara, Bologna, and Brescia. They are all from half an hour to two hours one way from Venice and very easily reached by train or car. A day will be just enough to see their main sights and to whet your appetite for many future returns. Otherwise, feel free to dig into this list for many more ideas for day trips from Venice, Italy.

Venice to Bassano del Grappa Day Trip

Bassano del Grappa is a picturesque city on the shores of the crystal clear river Brenta. The Venetian Prealps serve as its dramatic backdrop. Founded in the 2nd century BC, today Bassano stands out with its medieval and Venetian architecture.

Here you will find the remains of a medieval castle (used for opera performances each summer), fortified city walls, lovely cobbled piazzas, and many old buildings with faded frescoes on their facades. Winged lions (the symbol of the Republic of Venice of which Bassano was once part) can be spotted all over the city’s historical centre.

Bassano is famous as a centre of production of  grappa – a traditional for Italy potent alcoholic drink made of grapes. It is often assumed that this Italian city owes the second part of its name to the drink. Instead, Bassano was named del Grappa in 1928 to commemorate the soldiers who lost their lives in the decisive battles that were fought on the nearby Mount Grappa during the First World War.

Here are some of Bassano del Grappa’s major sights for you to explore and enjoy on a day trip from Venice:

• Ponte degli Alpini  – a wooden covered bridge straddling the river Brenta. A bridge has stood in the same place since the Middle Ages. It was destroyed several times. In 1569, the renowned architect Andrea Palladio rebuilt the bridge giving it its current magnificent shape. The bridge’s tumultuous history didn’t stop there though. In the centuries that followed, it was destroyed again and again in wars and force major events. The last time this happened was at the end of the Second World War. Each time the bridge was erected again following Palladio’s original designs.
• Duomo   di Santa Maria in Colle  – Bassano’s cathedral was originally built around the year 998 and its imposing body is still a wonder to behold.
• Piazza della Liberta’  and  Piazza Garibaldi  – Bassano del Grappa’s beautiful main squares. At Piazza della Liberta’ don’t miss the 15th-century Loggia del Comune with the splendid astronomical clock on its facade. You can go up the steps and walk inside the loggia free of charge for a great view of the square below.
• Civic Museum  – housed in a former Franciscan convent, the Civic Museum of Bassano del Grappa has an archaeological collection, a medieval section, a number of artworks by the likes of  Canova  and father and son Tiepolo, as well as a whole room dedicated to Jacopo del Ponte (also known as Jacopo Bassano – the city’s most famous Renaissance painter). The adjacent cloister holds a lapidarium and it’s also used for contemporary art installations.
• Church of St. Francis  – an impressive 12th-century church next door to the Civic Museum. It has a 14th-century crucifix among several other important works of art.
• Palazzo Bonaguro  – this is where the Natural History section of Bassano’s Civic Museums is housed.
• Palazzo Sturm  – a lovely historic building that houses two museums.
• Poli Grappa Museum  – here you can learn all about the potent Italian drink grappa and see how it is made.
• Hemingway and the Great War Museum  – after being wounded in the First World War, the great writer Ernest Hemingway spent three months in Bassano del Grappa. The villa where he stayed has been turned into a museum. 

Bassano del Grappa is the perfect day trip from Venice. On one hand, it is small enough so that you can walk everywhere and cover all of its sights in a day. On the other hand, it offers a great variety of things to see and enjoy so that you can easily fill up a day with a spot of sightseeing, some nice shopping, and relaxed people-watching over a lovely lunch.

Travel Times:  From 1 h 14 mins by Regionale train from Venezia Santa Lucia train station. From 1 h 5 mins to 1 h 40 mins by car from Piazzale Roma in Venice.

Best Organised Tours: Click here to book a great day trip from Venice taking in Bassano del Grappa as well as the beautiful village of Asolo. Expect a vineyard stopover where you can sample the locally produced Prosecco as well as a visit to one of the most beautiful and famous Venetian villas designed by Andrea Palladio. Otherwise, click here to see the full range of tours available in Bassano del Grappa, Italy.

Tips:  Bassano del Grappa is particularly famous for the locally made ceramics. There are many shops selling wonderful and whimsical ceramic pieces produced by small family-owned workshops. Stock up on imaginative hand-painted cups, plates, terrines, and bowls in order to take a piece of Italy home with you. Visit the  Ceramics Museum G. Roi  in Palazzo Sturm in town to learn more about the tradition of ceramics in Bassano del Grappa, Italy.  

• Photos of  Bassano del Grappa , Italy

Venice to Bologna Day Trip

Come to Bologna for its excellent food, medieval history and the oldest University in the world still in continuous operation today. In a day, you can see most of Bologna’s main sights some of which are:

• Archiginnasio – the first permanent seat of the University of Bologna;
• Asinelli and Garisenda towers – witnesses of Bologna medieval past when close to 200 towers graced the city’s skyline;
• Basilica of Santo Stefano (also known as Sette Chiese) – built over what was originally a temple of the goddess Isis and then grew into a complex of seven interconnected chapels and churches;
• Neptune’s Fountain;
• Quadrilatero – the city’s medieval market which is still going strong;
• Piazza Maggiore – lined up by splendid palaces like Palazzo d’Accursio and the largest brick cathedral in the world – the Cathedral of St. Petronius;
• Endless porticoes keeping you from rain and shine alike.

Very different to Venice, Bologna will give you a chance to see Italy in a new light. Plus, there is simply no chance to have bad food in the city which is known as La Gorda (the Fat One) Italy-wide.

Travel Times: From 1 h 25 mins (Frecciarossa and Frecciargento) and from 1 h 51 mins (Regionale Veloce).

Tips: For more information about what to do and see in Italy’s seventh most populous city, click here to read my article about Bologna.

Venice to Brescia Day Trip

Brescia is a hidden gem in the Italian province of Lombardy. While most tourists head over to the Lombardian capital Milan, make sure that you get off the train at Brescia to experience its unexpected beauty. The city’s history spans 3200 years and offers a rich tapestry of sights and museums for you to explore. Among these are:

• Monumental area of the Roman Forum – which contains the best preserved Roman public buildings in Northern Italy;
• Huge medieval castle with battlements, a tower, drawbridge, rampart and an Arms Museum in the keep. Its position on the steep Cidneo hill also offers unparalleled views over Brescia;
• Many spacious squares lined up by stunning buildings. Don’t miss the Art Deco Piazza della Vittoria (with its Torrione – the first skyscraper built in Italy) and the Renaissance Piazza della Loggia (with the inspiring Palazzo della Loggia and the beautiful astronomical clock ).
• Duomo Vecchio and Duomo Nuovo (The Old and the New Cathedrals);
• Monastic Complex of San Salvatore/Santa Giulia (Santa Giulia City Museum) – with 11 000 works of art and archaeological finds;
• Teatro Grande – a lavish opera house.

There are so many things to see and experience in Brescia, you can have a very full and exciting day there. Make sure that you plan well so as to cover as much ground as you can.

Travel Times: From 1 h 47 mins (Frecciarossa) and from 1 h 55 mins (Regionale Veloce).

Tips: Try the local cheese Bagoss. It is produced in small quantities in the nearby village of Bagolino and it has a lovely dense and salty flavour with hints of walnuts and chestnuts. On your descent from Brescia Castle, stop at ‘ Gelateria e… di Bedont R & Martha ‘ (Via dei Musei, 20a). Here you will find some of the best gelato in Italy. My favourite is the fiordilatte with caramelised sesame seeds flavour.

Venice to Ferrara Day Trip

Ferrara is beautiful and has so much to offer to the discerning traveller eager to learn more about Italy’s medieval history and art. Ruled by the House of Este in the 14th and 15th centuries, the city boasts several splendid palaces, a Romanesque cathedral with a fabulous facade, and 9 km of ancient defensive walls which are (alongside those of Lucca in Tuscany) the best preserved Renaissance walls in Italy. Ferrara’s historical centre is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Some of the main sights here are:

• Castello Estense – an iconic medieval brick building surrounded by moat in Ferrara’s heart;
• Cathedral of San Giorgio with its lace-like facade, the construction of which started at the beginning of the 12th century;
• Palazzo dei Diamanti – the seat of the National Gallery;
• University of Ferrara with its Botanical Garden – Copernicus being one of its most notable students;
• Natural History Museum with a dreamy building;
• Teatro Comunale – its internal courtyard (called Rotonda Foschini in honour of the engineer Antonio Foschini) will make you marvel at its perfectly elliptical shape.

Ferrara is also an incredibly easy city to explore with children in tow. Head over there to give your little ones a chance to run and have fun in the many playgrounds installed all over town.

Travel Times: From 1 h 4 mins (Frecciabianca) and 1 h 27 mins (Regionale Veloce).

Tips : Come to Ferrara in September when Italy’s most important ballooning event takes place. Over nine days colourful baloons fly over the historical centre of Ferrara twice a day. The Ferrara Balloons Festival is held in the Bassani Urban Park just outside of the city’s Renaissance defensive walls. It is a big event with thousands of people flocking to see it, with pop-up restaurants and lots of entertainment options for little ones and grown-ups. Click here to find out more.

Venice to Lake Garda Day Trip

Lago di Garda is Italy’s biggest lake. Its shores are dotted with picturesque towns and villages and its landscapes leave you breathless. You can get there very swiftly from Venice to experience la dolce vita in its true sense. Medieval castles, Roman ruins, frescoed houses, lake views, nature hikes, spa procedures, boat trips, sublime gelato. You can savour it all in one perfect day. Peschiera del Garda, Desenzano del Garda and Sirmione are three of the towns on Lake Garda which you can reach with ease from Venice. Don’t miss:

• Fortress and external fortifications in Peschiera del Garda – part of UNESCO’s World Heritage Site list;
• Archaeological Museum, castle, old villas and Tower of St. Martin in Desenzano del Garda ;
• Scaliger Castle,  Grottoes of Catullus (the ruins of a huge Roman villa), spa treatments, beaches and boat trips around the promontory in Sirmione ;
• Several large amusement parks and aquaparks are nearby. Check Gardaland, Caneva The Aquapark and CanevaWorld Movieland among others.

Lake Garda and the towns on its shores offer so many options and so much beauty to experience in a day that even the traveller who really knows their mind will find it difficult to choose. As such, make a plan before you go so that you can see as much as possible and yet feel refreshed and full of happy memories at the end of the day.

Travel Times: From 1 h 26 mins (Frecciarossa) and 1 h 46 mins (Regionale Veloce) to Peschiera del Garda. From 1 h 31 mins (Frecciarossa) and 1 h 56 mins (Regionale Veloce) to Desenzano del Garda/Sirmione

Tips: Lake Garda is gorgeous to visit any time of the year. August tends to be crowded, but any other month (including Christmas) the place is gorgeous. Beware that most historical sights are closed on Mondays. Look into visiting Lazise, Malcesine, Limone sul Garda, Garda, Bardolino, Riva del Garda and Torbole, if you are looking for more ideas as to cute little towns to see on the shores of the lake. For more tips and information about Lake Garda, have a look at my articles here , here , here , here and here .

Venice to Medieval Walled Towns Day Trip

Within very easy reach of Venice, you will find a gorgeous bunch of medieval walled towns. With their defensive walls and museums they are able to make the heart of a history and art buff sing with happiness and appreciation. Here are three for your consideration:

• Bassano del Grappa – an elegant town sat on the banks of the river Brenta. The Venetian Pre-Alps serve as its dramatic backdrop. The main sight here is the Alpini Bridge, the striking structure of which has become Bassano’s symbol. A very pleasant day can be spent in this town exploring its streets and museums (one of which is dedicated to the local strong drink  grappa ). When you reach the main square look up and admire the astronomical clock on the façade of one of the buildings. It is one of my most favourite things to see in charming Bassano.
• Castelfranco Veneto – the cutest of the pack. A largely intact defensive wall circumnavigates the town’s historical centre. Don’t miss Giorgione’s House, then visit the adjacent 18th century cathedral where you can admire the artist’s breathtaking  Castelfranco Madonna . The views from the Torre Civica are worth the steep steps to reach the tower’s top. If you can, come in September, when the town holds a Medieval Fair .
• Cittadella – one of my most favourite small towns in Northern Italy . Here you will find ‘Europe’s best medieval parapet walkway’. In simple English this means that you can circumnavigate the whole town by walking on its medieval defensive wall. For this you need to climb 14 meters up the wall via narrow passages and steep steps and then follow a path by the battlements. At certain points you will need to go even higher – up to 30 meters in fact. All this exercise will offer you an unparalleled view of the old town encircled by the wall and, beyond it, the Pre-Alps on the horizon.

There are many medieval walled towns in the Veneto. The three I have suggested above are some of the most splendid and easiest to reach from Venice. If you want more suggestions, check out: Asolo , Marostica and Noale .

Train Times: From 1 h 11 mins (Regionale) to Bassano del Grappa. From 48 mins (Regionale) to Castelfranco Veneto. From 1 h 17 mins (Regionale Veloce and Regionale) to Cittadella.

Tips: You can explore Castelfranco Veneto and Cittadella in one day. There is a direct train line connecting these two medieval walled towns, so that you can spend the morning in one and the afternoon in the other. This particular train line starts in Vicenza (see point 10 below) and finishes in Treviso (see point 8 below), so you can also combine a visit to either Castelfranco Veneto or Cittadella with a visit to Vicenza or Treviso and make it a mega day trip to remember.

Venice to Padua Day Trip

Tucked between Venice and Verona, Padua is often overlooked for one of these two much more famous cities. Still, if you look into it, you will soon discover that the art, the museums, the history and the shopping make Padua a real gem to have in your travel schedule. The city is mainly known as the setting for Shakespeare’s ‘Taming of the Shrew’, but when you are there, don’t miss the following sights:

• Scrovegni Chapel with its stunning frescoes by Giotto. Tickets are in demand and tied to a time slot, so head there as soon as you arrive or book in advance;
• Palazzo della Ragione – read more about it here;
• Padua’s 800 years old daily market (Sundays excluded) which is still going strong – read more about it here;
• Palazzo del Bo – the seat of Padua’s University. Founded in 1222, it is one of the oldest in Europe. This is where Galileo Galilei used to teach. You can visit the historical part of the University as part of a guided tour taking place several times a day;
• Prato della Valle – a huge elliptical square with a surface of 90 000 sq m which is the biggest in Italy and one of the biggest in Europe;
• Orto Botanico – the oldest botanical garden in the world. Read more about it here ;
• Basilica of St Anthony of Padua – where the body and the relics of the saint are venerated;
• Caffe Pedrocchi – two hundred years old and one of Italy’s historical coffee houses. It used to be open 24/7. You will find its beautiful building right by Padua’s Palazzo della Ragione.

There are so many unique and wonderful things to be seen in Padua, it is impossible to mention them all here. The train journey from Venice takes less than half an hour, so it makes for a wonderful day trip.

Travel Times: From 26 mins (Regionale Veloce, Frecciarossa, Frecciargento, Eurocity).

Tips: Set some time aside to explore Padua’s hidden gems. Visit the Church of the Eremitani to see the Mantegna frescoes. Read here the amazing story of how they were destroyed during the bombings of the Second World War and then decades later restored using advanced mathematical calculations. Don’t miss the Baptistery right next to Padua’s Duomo. It is covered in splendid frescoes and photos there are not allowed, so you can immerse yourself in a beautiful moment of art appreciation. Another little gem is St. Anthony’s School (just off the Basilica of St. Anthony) which is covered in frescoes (mainly) by Titian. Finally, when in Padua, don’t miss the fabulous cakes and sweets typical for this beautiful Italian city. Click here to find out more about them.

Venice to Treviso Day Trip

People usually fly into Treviso and then head straight to Venice, completely bypassing this rather very pretty Northern Italian city. Don’t make the same mistake. Treviso with its breathtaking frescoed and decorated buildings and narrow curving streets guarantees a day of exciting exploration. Some of the main sights here are:

• Piazza dei Signori – the main square where you can admire the imposing Palazzo dei Trecento – built in the 13th and the 14th centuries, it was the seat of Treviso’s Highest Council (the main administrative body of the city) and nowadays it houses the municipal council.
• Loggia dei Cavalieri – an elegant structure with faded frescoes in the heart of the old town. It was built in the 13th century to serve the local nobility as a place for meetings, conversations, and games.
• La Pescheria – a small river island in the historic centre of the city where the fish market is held. 
• San Francesco Church – a prime example of the late Romanesque/early Gothic style, this church was used as a stable by Napoleon’s troops. Here are the tombs of  Petrarch’s  daughter Francesca and  Dante’s  son Pietro.
• Church of San Nicolo’ – for its many frescoes and also the earliest depiction of spectacles (eyeglasses) in Europe.
• The seven-domed cathedral where you can admire a Titian and a very atmospheric crypt among other things.

Travel Times: From 37 mins (Regionale) and from 30 mins (Regionale Veloce).

Tips: Treviso is the birthplace of a dessert, a vegetable and a drink which make our lives so much better. The first one is tiramisu – that glorious dessert made with coffee- and marsala-dipped ladyfingers which are then layered with mascarpone beaten with raw eggs. The second one is the radicchio rosso – also called Italian chicory in English. Its bitter taste is a great complement to any fresh salad, plus it is very tasty grilled and added to pasta dishes, too.  The third one is prosecco which nowadays is incredibly popular in the UK. You can combine half a day in Treviso with a visit to a nearby medieval walled town. Castelfranco Veneto and Cittadella are both very easy to reach from Treviso’s train station.

Venice to Verona Day Trip

Fair Verona doesn’t need an introduction. This is, after all, the Italian city which is forever linked in our hearts with the story of Romeo and Juliet. Verona is worth a day trip from Venice not just because of its Shakespearean links though. The city has a rich Roman and medieval past, a worldwide known opera festival and enough sights and places of interest to keep you occupied and excited for several days. Take your pick:

• Piazza Bra – one of the largest squares in Italy where you will find Arena di Verona – once used to host gladiator fights and nowadays one of the finest concert venues in the world. This is where the famous Verona Opera Festival is held every summer. It is important to note that the Arena pre-dates Rome’s Coliseum by around a century;
• Piazza delle Erbe – lined up with beautifully frescoed buildings and the gorgeous Palazzo Maffei. Don’t miss the adjacent Piazza dei Signori with the statue of Dante at its heart;
• Torre dei Lamberti – the tallest tower in Verona which was built in 1172. It offers you inspiring views over the red rooftops of the city;
• Roman Amphitheatre – built in the first century AD which is still used for stage performances today. Read more about it here ;
• Juliet’s house outfitted with the famous balcony (which, in fact, is a sawed in half sarcophagus) – if you go there though, make sure that you actually visit the house, as it gives you a fascinating look into life in the 13th century. Read more information about Juliet’s house here ;
• Castelvecchio – explore this medieval castle which nowadays houses a splendid art collection. Click here for more details.
• Giardino dei Giusti – a Renaissance garden first planted in the 15th century. From its top level you can enjoy stunning views of the city. Read more about it here;
• Scaliger Tombs – a group of Gothic funerary monuments in honour of Verona’s medieval rulers – the fearsome Scaligeri Family.
• Juliet’s Club – where the Secretaries of Juliet reply to letters sent from all over the world asking the Shakespearean heroine for advice in the matters of the heart. If this sounds interesting, click here to read my account of my visit to Juliet’s Club on the 14th February 2017.

There are so many museums, churches and places of interest in Verona, that you will be spoiled for choice. The good thing is that the city centre is easily navigable by foot, so you can walk everywhere and see as much as possible within a day. Just wear some very comfortable shoes.

Travel Times: From 1 h 10 mins (Frecciarossa) and from 1 h 27 mins (Regionale Veloce).

Tips: Try the locally made sweets ‘Baci di Romeo’ and ‘Baci di Giulietta’ (literally ‘Romeo’s Kisses’ and ‘Juliet’s Kisses). They taste divine. Romeo’s version is made of almond paste and buttercream and Juliet’s is made of hazelnut paste and chocolate cream. They sell them in a few places around town. My favourite place to buy them from is a historical pasticceria called De Rossi. Here I hasten to add that I am in no way related to them and also, this is not an ad, just a personal recommendation as I love these sweets so much.

Venice to Vicenza Day Trip

Known as the Pearl of Renaissance, the Heart of Veneto, the City of Palladio and the Gold Town, Vicenza lies half-way between Venice and Verona in the Northern Italian region of the  Veneto . The city is a creative hub of art, jewellery traditions and one-of-a-kind events. Plus it is a veritable open-air museum of architecture. Its streets are lined with sumptuous palaces and buildings which have inspired architectural cannons all over Europe and North America for the past 500 years. This is also the city I have been calling home for the past three years. So, obviously, I have a lot of recommendations as to what to see and do here. Don’t miss the main sights:

• Basilica Palladiana – a stunning work of architectural art and the pearl in the crown of Palladio – the most influential architect of the Western world for the past 500 years who used Vicenza as his own personal architectural playground;
• Piazza dei Signori – Vicenza’s central square surrounded by Palladio’s buildings and seeped in history;
• Church of  St. Mary of Mount Berico – overlooking the city and one of Italy’s most important and visited sanctuaries;
• Teatro Olimpico – the theatre designed by Palladio where you can see the world’s oldest surviving stage set still in use today. Click here to read more about this jewel of Vicenza;
• Many lavish jewellery shops confirming the fact that Vicenza is one of Italy’s most important centres of jewellery making;
• Jewellery Museum – the first in Italy. Read more about it here ;
• Church of Santa Corona – see the precious works of art by Bellini and Montagna. Worship the thorn from Christ’s Crown which has been sheltered here for centuries (for security reasons, the thorn is shown to the public only on big Christian holidays, the rest of the time it is kept in the nearby Diocesan Museum);
• Villa Capra ‘La Rotonda’ and Villa Valmarana ai Nani – within a short walk from Vicenza’s train station, you can see two of the most famous and most beautiful Venetian villas. La Rotonda is one of the most copied buildings in the world and it has inspired the design of the White House.

For all that it has to offer, Vicenza keeps itself away from the trodden tourist track. This makes it all the lovelier to explore and peaceful to enjoy. If you are an architecture aficionado or are looking for that rare gem of a city which has it all but it lacks crowds and cheapened attractions, come to Vicenza for a day trip from Venice to remember for years to come.

Travel Times : From 43 mins (Frecciarossa) and from 45 mins (Regionale Veloce).

Tips: Have a look at the Vicenza category of blog posts here for a detailed inside look on what to see, eat and do in this exciting yet off-the-beaten-track destination in Northern Italy.

Venice to the Villas of the Veneto Day Trip

When the summer heat made Venice unbearable, its rulers and noblemen decanted en masse to the elegant villas they had built for themselves on the mainland. Designed by the best architects, covered in frescoes and surrounded by manicured gardens, the villas were akin to small palaces and just as lavishly furnished. Enjoy a day exploring some of these villas and see yet another facet of Venetian history. Some of the most splendid villas within an easy reach from Venice are:

• Villa Pisani – the mother of all Venetian villas equipped with a maze, gorgeous gardens, water features and as much art as you can take in a day;
• Villa Foscari ‘La Malcontenta’ – designed by Palladio, it impresses with its monumental architecture and lavish frescoes;
• Villa Foscarini-Rossi – where, apart from the beauty of the villa itself, you can also see the Museum of the Shoes with over 1500 pairs of shoes created by the most feted designers.

Visiting a villa or two (or even three) is a pleasant and easy way to have a day trip from Venice to remember. In a way, you still feel like you are in Venice, for the history and the art of the villas are intrinsically connected with the powerful Venetian families of the day, yet there are no crowds and, in summer, the gardens offer shade to take refuge from the scorching Italian sun.

Travel Times: From 50-55 mins for Villa Pisani and Villa Foscarini-Rossi – from 26 mins by train (Regionale Veloce, Frecciarossa and Frecciargento) to Padua, followed by bus 53E to Stra (about 22 mins). Then walk about half a km to the villas. About 19 mins to Villa Foscari ‘La Malcontenta’ – take bus 53E from Corsia B7 at Piazzale Roma in Venice and get off at Chiesa. The villa is less than 500 m away from the bus stop.

Tips: There are many more villas to explore around Venice. A comfortable, yet quite pricey way to see a bunch of them is to join a river cruise which will take you up the river Brenta on the shores of which lie many of the more splendid villas.

Travel Tips and Tricks for Unforgettable Day Trips from Venice, Italy

I. public transport options for day trips from venice, italy.

Depending on where you want to head for the day from Venice, you will travel either by boat, train or bus (or a combination of two of them). The public transport system in Italy is very well-developed, generally inexpensive, and very easy to use.

I use the following websites to check public transport options and to get an idea of travel times and ticket prices for day trips from Venice, Italy:

1.  Google Maps – for travel times and itineraries as well as for available public transport options.

2. Ticket Tours  – for public transport tickets (water bus and land bus) in and around Venice and the Venetian Lagoon. It’s also great for booking trips to the islands in the Venetian Lagoon. For example, this hop-on hop-off tour with an audio guide and this tour to Murano, Burano, and Torcello .

3.  Omio – my go-to train travel website in Italy and Europe. It gives me all the available train destinations, travel times, connections, and price points. It also allows me to buy tickets for all types of trains in Italy (Frecciarossa, Frecciargento, Intercity, Regionale Veloce, and Regionale) in advance.

4.  Italo Treno  – a private train company running its own branded high-speed trains. Often announces discount codes on its  Facebook page . It’s best to buy tickets well in advance from their website as the prices may increase dramatically the closer to the day of travel it gets.

5.  FS Bus Italia Veneto  – for information about bus and coach travel in the Northern Italian region of Veneto .

II. Tips and tricks for day trips by boat and boat/bus from Venice, Italy

Due to its geographical location in the heart of the Venetian Lagoon, Venice is a city of water where cars cannot be used and boats are the main form of transport.

A long railway and road bridge – Ponte della Liberta’ – connects Venice to Italy’s mainland thus giving you a chance to quickly travel to many large Italian cities and smaller Italian towns on a day trip from Venice. If you want to visit one or some of the islands in the Venetian Lagoon though, a boat (and in fewer cases, a combo of boat and bus) is the only way to get there.

Here are some tips and tricks to help you enjoy unforgettable day trips by boat and by boat and bus from Venice, Italy:

1. There is a dense system of public water buses – called vaporetto – that serves Venice and connects it to the nearby islands and certain points on the mainland. You can have a look at the official website of Venice Urban Services for exhaustive details about types of transport, lines, destinations covered, and current prices.

2. There are also tour boats , private boats, and water taxis (known as motoscafo) that can be hired for day trips and tailor-made itineraries.

3. Travelling by boat (a vaporetto, a tour boat or a private boat) in the Venetian Lagoon is a very pleasant experience. There is no other way to fully appreciate the beauty and history of Venice and the nearby islands than to see them from the water. At the same time, during the high season, vaporettos quickly fill up with people and you may need to stand upright for most or all of the journey.

4. You can buy single tickets, a day ticket or a multi-day ticket for Venice’s vaporettos. Bear in mind that it is much more economical to buy a day ticket or a multi-day ticket than purchasing a single ticket every time you need to catch a vaporetto.

5. Make sure that you buy your ticket in advance and validate it before boarding the vaporetto.

6. You can easily reach the most popular destinations in the Venetian Lagoon – Murano, Burano, Torcello, Lido di Venezia, and Chioggia – by vaporetto from Venice. I have provided details in the section Islands in the Venetian Lagoon above.

7. Vaporettos and ferries will also take you to Venice from certain points on the Italian mainland. For example, Punta Sabbioni , Cavallino-Treporti , and Terminal Fusina .

8. In addition, if you want to visit the island of Pellestrina, for example, then you will need to take a vaporetto from Venice to the island of Lido di Venezia and then a bus to Pellestrina. The interesting thing here is that Lido di Venezia is connected to Pellestrina by a ferry. So, when you reach that point of the journey, the bus drives onto the ferry for the short crossing of ten minutes or so. The photo above shows you the views from the top floor of this small ferry between the two islands.

9. If you want to visit the Sottomarina beaches near Chioggia, then you will also need to take a bus there once you’ve reached Chioggia either by boat or boat and bus from Venice.

III. Tips and tricks for day trips by train from Venice, Italy

Train travel in Italy is generally very well organised. You can get from A to B quickly and (in most cases) rather cheaply. Here are some tips and tricks to help you enjoy unforgettable day trips by train from Venice, Italy:

1. Depending on their speed, there are different types of trains in Italy:

• Frecciarossa , Frecciargento , and  Italo Treno  are the high-speed trains which will zip you from Venice to Bologna , Verona , Milan , and Florence in no time.
• Regionale Veloce  stands for fast regional trains. They connect Venice to many Italian towns and cities and travel at rather fast speeds.
• Regionale  are the slowest trains of them all. They stop at all small towns and villages along the way.

2. Where possible, try to travel by  Regionale Veloce :

• The tickets for this type of train are several times cheaper than the tickets for the high-speed trains Frecciarossa, Frecciargento, and Italo Treno.
• The Regionale Veloce tickets also don’t fluctuate in price, so you can buy them on the day.
• For example, a one-way ticket from Venice to Vicenza with the Frecciarossa train currently can cost as much as 21 euros if you buy it online. If you take a Regionale Veloce train, you will pay only 6.50 euros. The difference in travel times is only 2 mins. Frecciarossa takes 44 mins from Venice to Vicenza. Regionale Veloce takes 46 mins.

3. Travel by Frecciarossa / Frecciargento and  Italo Treno to destinations that are at a significant distance from Venice. For example, Bologna , Florence, Lake Garda , and Milan .

• You will pay more but you will spend much less time in transit.
• In this case, try to buy your tickets in advance online, as they will be cheaper than buying them on the day at the train station.

4. Travel by Regionale trains only if there are no other options. They are cheap, but they can take a very long time.

5. Here is some useful information if you are buying your train tickets on the day of travel at the train station:

• Lines for the ticket office can be long and slow-moving so arrive with plenty of time to spare.
• You can use the ticket machines to either buy a ticket or print a ticket bought online.
• Beware that some ticket machines only take cards and others take both cards and cash. Check the symbols in the upper right corner of the machine to make sure you are using the correct machine depending on how you want to pay.
• The ticket machines are multilingual – you can select the language you want at the start of the operation.
• Keep your luggage close and your valuables closer. It pays to be vigilant at all times, especially at large busy train stations. I have never been pickpocketed in Italy but I have had people approach me right when I was in the middle of buying a ticket. They either wanted to chat, asked for a donation or tried to engage me otherwise. A firm and loud ‘No!’ and a refusal to engage seem to work.

6. If you are travelling by Regionale Veloce or a Regionale train, don’t forget to validate your ticket before boarding the train:

• Look for the small oval machines attached to walls and pillars at train stations and train platforms.
• Insert the ticket in the machine’s slot, pushing it in and as much to the left as it would go and then wait for the whirring sound. Take your ticket out and check if the machine has printed a long line with digits on your ticket. The first few digits are the time and the date.
• You don’t need to validate tickets for Frecciarossa / Frecciargento and Italo Treno trains. These are usually tickets with an assigned seat and for a train leaving at a particular time.
• You need to validate all tickets for Regionale Veloce and Regionale trains.
• Tickets for the Regionale Veloce and the Regionale trains are ‘open’, in the sense that you can use them for any such train on the day you purchased the ticket for.
• However, once validated, your ticket is valid for the next 4 hours. In other words, you need to board the train within the four hours after having validated your ticket.
• If you forget to validate your ticket and still board the train, make sure that you find the ticket inspector as soon as possible. Explain your case and be very polite. Ticket inspectors in Italy are very strict and the fines for travelling without a validated ticket are rather large. Pleading ignorance of the rules is not helpful. I have seen ticket inspectors in Italy easily switch to English, French, and/or German, so pretending that you can’t understand them doesn’t work either.

7. Trains arrive a couple of minutes before the time of departure, so they stay on the platform a little longer than trains in England, for example, where they arrive and leave within a very short window of time.

8. Trains often have two floors with upstairs and downstairs seats. For the best views, go upstairs.

9. Always buy your ticket before you travel. If you are caught without a ticket, with the incorrect ticket or a not validated ticket, you may be given an option to buy a ticket at a higher price, but most often than not, a large fine will be issued immediately and you will need to pay it on the spot.

In Conclusion

More helpful venice info for you.

Venice:   Essential Tips , Hidden Gems ,  Nearest Airports ,  Boats in Venice ,  Haunted Venice ,  Arco del Paradiso Venice Videos:   Grand Canal ,  St. Mark’s Square at Carnival ,  St. Mark’s Square ,  View from Rialto Bridge ,  View from Accademia Bridge ,  Venetian gondolas ,  Historical Regatta ,  Squero di San Trovaso ,  Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo ,  Fondazione Querini Stampalia ,  Palazzo Grimani ,  Rialto Fish Market ,  Ca’ Macana ,  Festa della Madonna della Salute

More Helpful Italy Info for You

Best of Italy:   Italian Piazzas ,  Italian Food ,  Italian Markets ,  Italian Coffee Culture Northern Italy: 18 Best Cities to Visit Lake Garda:   Best Towns ,  Nearest Airports ,  Travel Options ,  Lake Garda with Kids , Malcesine , Riva del Garda , Torri del Benaco Lake Como:   Things to See ,  Nesso Veneto:  Best Cities to Visit ,  Top 15 Places ,  30 Adventures ,  15 Most Colourful Places Friuli Venezia Giulia:   Venzone ,  Most Beautiful Villages Emilia Romagna:  Bologna ,  Ravenna ,  Comacchio ,  Most Beautiful Villages Marche:   6 Reasons to Visit ,  Gradara ,  Frasassi Caves ,  Temple of Valadier Verona:   Things to Do in One Day ,  Day Trips from Verona Padua:   Things to Do in One Day ,  101 Facts About Padua ,  10 Reasons to Visit Padua ,  Day Trips from Padua Vicenza:   Things to Do , Best Museums ,  Day Trips from Vicenza

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Saturday 27th of August 2022

Trying to figure out whether to go to Milan and do day trips from there, go to Naples/Sorrento and stay in that area or go to Venice (I've been there and love it). I am really leaning towards staying Venice and doing day trips. Looks like it's very easy to get around and a lot more to see than I anticipated. Thank you for all this information!

Monday 29th of August 2022

Thank you for stopping by and for your nice comment! Have a wonderful time in Italy!

Rossi Thomson :)

Monday 8th of July 2019

Great article. It has given me lots of ideas for my first solo trip to Venice in autumn. Thanks

Tuesday 9th of July 2019

Thank you, Rose! Have a great time in Italy. Best wishes,

Sunday 13th of January 2019

Rossi Your blog is amazing and it has given us great ideas for day trips from Venice that we will be definitely using when we go to italy Much better than the usual tripe you get on line Bravo Jim [from Australia]

Thank you for your kind words! I hope you have a great time in Italy! Best wishes, Rossi :)

Wednesday 27th of June 2018

We are so thankful we stumbled onto your blog! Your article on the 11 best day trips in northern Italy helped us make a decision to take the train from Venice to Padua for the day. We followed your itinerary and had a MOST pleasant visit to the city. We bought the Padua card with the Scrovegni Chapel ticket. Went to St. Anthony’s Basilica, Padua University, and Palazzo Ragione, as well as the coffee shop.

I am so glad to hear this! Padua is a lovely city. Thank you very much for your very kind words. With best wishes,

Tuesday 15th of May 2018

Thank you for this! I will be using it to plan our two days post-cruise in October.

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

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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.

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 LivTours , 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.

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The Ultimate Northern Italy Road Trip: Routes, Sights, Guides, Maps And More

From the stunning scenery of Lake Como, dramatic coastlines of Cinque Terre and the canals of Venice, to the culture, art and beauty of Milan, Florence and Rome, it’s time to plan the ultimate northern Italy road trip! 

When it comes to road trips, a journey through northern Italy offers some of the most varied scenery. One minute you’re faced with a view across a tranquil lake, the next you’re learning about the Romans with a trip around an ancient amphitheatre. 

There’s a variety of cuisines to sample too, with amazing fresh truffles in Turin and Alba, venetian cicchetti (snacks) in Venice and the delights of ‘appy hour’ (aperitivo hour) in Milan . You could even visit Emilia-Romagna, often referred to as the food capital of Italy, with cities like Bologna an absolute must-visit!

Oh and you’ve got a mix of activities on offer too. You can swim on the beaches of Cinque Terre, climb across the rooftop of Milan’s impressive Duomo, take a gondola ride in Venice or trace Romeo and Juliet’s love story in Verona.

And the best part about a road trip through northern Italy? The freedom to veer off course from time to time! While I’ve suggested an Italy itinerary on the map below, I’d encourage creating your own route between places. It’s often when you find super special spots that aren’t in the guide books!

So rather than create one epic Italian road trip, I’ve divided the country in two! Read on for my northern Italy road trip or check out my route for an amazing  southern Italy road trip . 

Northern Italy Road Trip Itinerary

If you’ve got time on your side, then this northern Italy road trip is a great option. I’ve started it in Milan and ended in Rome, as they’re easy for flights. From the beauty of Lake Como to the gorgeous coastline in Cinque Terre, to impressive, historic cities including Venice, Florence and Rome, this Italy road trip has a bit of everything. It’ll definitely show you some of the most beautiful landscapes in Italy too.

If you’d rather break it up into smaller chunks, you could visit Milan, Lake Como and Cinque Terre across a week. I’d recommend taking a look at my guide to the best hidden gems in Italy too – you might find a few other stops to add to your route! 

Northern Italy Road Trip Map

I’ve used a map to plot the perfect route for your Northern Italy road trip . I recommend opening it another window to study in detail!

What to pack for your road trip

If you’re wondering what to pack for your trip, this guide to road trip essentials has you covered. From portable chargers to ways to stay entertained on long journeys, it’ll help you create your road trip packing list. I’ve also included lots of must-haves at the end of this post, to make the process much easier!

Northern Italy Road Trip: Stop 1 – Milan

Milan, in Italy’s Lombardy region, is a unique blend of historical architecture, contemporary skyscrapers and well-known as a fashionista’s Italian city of choice. The icon of the city is the Duomo Cathedral. It’s the world’s largest gothic cathedral and is absolutely stunning!

I’d recommend heading up to the roof in the lift. I remember how stunning those views were, and you can literally wander all over the rooftop, taking in the details of the architecture and some vertigo-inducing views of the main piazza.

There are plenty more sights to see in Milan including the famous La Scala Opera House, a 15th century castle and Leonardo Da Vinci’s painting of The Last Supper. While you might associate Milan’s shopping scene just with high end designer stores, there’s actually something to suit every budget. One place you must go though is Galleria Vittorio Emanuale II – one of the oldest and most beautiful shopping malls in the world. It was constructed in 1867 to celebrate the unification of Italy and is decorated with stunning mosaics symbolising the different cities in the country.

On my last visit I learned all about the city’s love of ‘appy hour (the Italian version of happy hour!) Head to Navigli (Milan’s pretty canal area) and you’ll find plenty of great bars specialising in ‘appy hour! It’s not just about drinks – once you order a drink you get access to a buffet of small bites.

Milan is a great starting point for your northern Italy road trip. You can collect your car rental at one of the cities two airports, and after spending a couple of days exploring the city, you can head up to Lake Como or down to Cinque Terre.

READ MORE: One Day In Milan: A 24-Hour City Guide

Northern italy road trip: stop 2 – lake como.

Lake Como is just over an hour and a half from Milan , so you could easily visit for a day if you don’t fancy the overinflated prices of the area. It boasts spectacular alpine scenery, narrow cobbled streets lined with traditional pizzerias and boat trips across the lake. It’s a lovely contrast to Milan, so perfect if you want a variety of places on your Italy itinerary.

READ MORE: How to get from Milan to Lake Como

I visited a few years ago and while there are dreamy hotels like Grand Hotel Tremezzo where you could splurge your entire Italian road trip budget, you can also visit Lake Como on a budget !  There’s a hostel, some cheap pizzerias and well… looking at the lake is free!

Como is the largest town and has a lively café culture, gothic-style cathedral and museums. Meanwhile, the famous town of Bellagio is a great place to shop for souvenirs, stop for a gelato or enjoy a romantic waterside dinner.

You can reach Bellagio from Como by boat for around 9.50 EUR (£8, $11) per person. If you’re visiting for a special occasion, I’d recommend stopping for lunch or dinner at Villa d’ Este , the location of many celebrity weddings and events over the years!

For a thorough plan, I’d recommend reading my guide to the top things to do in Lake Como – it’s full of handy travel tips.

Northern Italy Road Trip: Stop 3 – Verona  

Continuing from Milan or Lake Como you can travel east to Verona in the Veneto region, or southwest towards Genoa and Cinque Terre. If you choose the Verona route as part of your Italy itinerary you can look forward to exploring 1st century AD Verona Arena , Piazza Bra with its gelaterias and fine restaurants and the house which inspired Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet.

For the best views of the city, climb to the top of Torre dei Lamberti in the heart of the Verona. I’d also recommend a walking tour of the city to learn all about its history.

While you can drive to Venice, I’d say a less stressful option is to leave your car in Verona and catch the train to Venice. Otherwise you’ll find yourself paying for overpriced car parks, and negotiating some pretty chaotic roads! In comparison, the train journey takes just over an hour and costs approx 9.50 EUR (£8, $11) per person. 

Northern Italy Road Trip: Stop 4 – Venice

No Italy road trip planner would be complete without a trip to Venice. Spend your days floating under the Bridge of Sighs, browsing handmade Venetian masks, learning how gondolas are built in Dorsoduro, or exploring the magnificent artwork of Doge’s Palace.

For the best photos head to the top of St. Mark’s or Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute. If you’re looking for unique souvenirs, consider taking a water taxi across the lagoon to Murano to see skilled glassblowers in action. In the evenings you can soak up Venice’s romantic vibes, with a drink in a wine bar, an evening at a jazz club or a delicious dinner right by the water. 

Venice is hard to do on a budget, so if you’re lacking funds, consider my idea of basing yourself in Verona and taking a day trip to Venice by train.

READ MORE: The Best Day Trips From Venice

Northern italy road trip: stop 5 – cinque terre.

This picturesque coastal area of Liguria, Italy is famous for its boldly-coloured cascading houses, rugged coastlines and picture-postcard views. It looks too perfect to be real and has been on my dream Italy itinerary for a long time. I hope I make it there soon!

Cinque Terre translates as ‘five earths’ and consists of five villages – Monterosso al Mare, Corniglia, Riomaggiore, Vernazza and Manarola. As the villages are difficult to drive in with narrow winding streets, I’d recommend enjoying some hiking in Cinque Terre . Alternatively, head for La Spezia or Porto Venere and jump on a ferry or train from there. Once there, enjoy the food, stunning views, take a dip in the sea, hop on a boat and enjoy some world class sunsets!

It’s a magical part of Italy, and while it gets busy during the summer, if you can time your visit for just out of the peak seasons, you’ll have a great time. 

Northern Italy Road Trip: Stop 6 – Florence

Florence sits in the heart of Tuscany, and is within easy reach of Cinque Terre or Venice/Verona depending on what route you decide to take on your Italy road trip. The city is famous for its striking medieval cathedral, Santa Maria del Fiore, with its distinctive red-brick cupola.

Other must see landmarks in Florence include 13th century Palazzo Vecchio, Uffizi Galleries and Ponte Vecchio bridge, which is lined with jewellery shops. If you’re travelling to Florence on a budget start with a look around open-air Loggia dei Lanzi in Piazza della Signoria where you can check out some iconic sculptures of mythical legends for free. Feeling hungry? Don’t miss San Lorenzo Market – a great place to pick up some tasty Italian delicacies, including meats and cheeses.

Then for the best panoramic city views, walk to Piazzale Michelangelo across the Arno River. Photos from there are truly breathtaking.

Want to see a bit more of the region? Why not book a stay at one of these incredible vineyard hotels in Tuscany . They’re ideal locations for a couples break in the region.

Or if you fancy getting off the beaten track, I’d recommend planning some days out to see some of these beautiful towns and villages in Tuscany .

Northern Italy Road Trip: Stop 7 – Rome

Take the scenic route from Florence to Rome , and you could divert from your road trip itinerary to squeeze in a lunchtime stop in romantic Siena or Grosseto. We’ve all heard our fair share of stories about the crazy drivers in Rome, so make sure you’ve packed your nerves of steel!  I’d also recommend checking if your hotel has parking, and consider walking or hopping in a bike to get around the city centre.

If you have one day in Rome , you can’t miss the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and the Trevi Fountain. Sit on the Spanish steps and mingle with locals or venture to Trastevere on the western banks of the Tiber River and enjoy its cobbled streets, charming tavernas and laid-back vibe.

To explore one of the world’s religious hubs, take the metro to Vatican City and marvel at Michelangelo’s artwork in the Sistine Chapel. After dark, Rome comes to life with bars, cabaret shows, live music, nightclubs and plenty more entertainment! Before visiting, I’d recommend reading these interesting facts about Rome – you’ll be amazed by what you learn! 

When Is The Best Time To Visit Northern Italy?

Italy has a Mediterranean climate and is a lovely destination to visit all year round.

Temperatures vary by region, but as a quick example, you can expect average temperatures of around 0°C in around Cortina (a ski resort in the mountains) in January, and as high as 37°C in July in cities such as Milan and Venice. Temperatures in the south remain mild in winter, making destinations like Puglia and Sicily great options for a winter holiday.

If you’re wondering when is the best time to visit northern Italy, I’d suggest planning a trip between April and June, or in September or October, just after the peak summer season.

The weather tends to be consistent in these months, but isn’t too hot. Plus, as you’re missing peak season, you should benefit from lower prices and fewer people.

Packing List For Northern Italy

Now you’ve got your route planned out, it’s time to decide what to pack! Here are a few quick suggestions of what to take, with some links to specific items I’d rate picking up before you travel.

Women’s packing list for Northern Italy

Women’s lightweight trousers – It’s good to have some conservative items and not flash too much skin. These are practical, lightweight but a bit cute too! Women’s sundress – Something pretty and not too short for when it’s appropriate. Women’s maxi dress – I quite liked having a longer item or two. If you pair it with a cardigan it’s more conservative too. Women’s midi skirt – I live in items like this in warm countries and have them in multiple colours and patterns. They’re comfortable and not revealing.

Women’s shorts – I packed a few pairs. I’d recommend something loose and comfortable like these shorts , and then perhaps some classic denim shorts too. Women’s summer top – I wore a lot of things like this. Neutral colours work best as you can mix and match with shorts and skirts. Plus, you can dress them up or dress them down! Women’s zip up hooded jacket – A few places get chilly, so you’ll want to be able to layer up occasionally. A zip up hoody like this will come in handy. Women’s bikini – You’ll need to pack a couple of items of swimwear. There are so many cute bikinis out there to choose from! Women’s rash guard – Not essential, but if you burn easily (or plan to surf) I’d recommend one of these. This one is great as it has a built-in bra and comes with a pair of matching shorts. Women’s sports vest – I’d recommend one or two sweat-absorbing vests like this for adventurous activities. Women’s sports bra – Ideal for sporty or adventure activities. I prefer sports bras like this Puma one which has some built in padding for extra support. Women’s leggings – Leggings are great for active adventures. These Under Armour ones are great as they’re very lightweight. Sarong – A really useful item for any travels in warm countries! Use it as a towel, a cover up, to sit on, to lie on or for a cute addition to an outfit! Sun hat – You’ll definitely want a sun hat to protect yourself. Sunglasses – I’ve owned a pair of these Ray Bans for a few years now and love them!

Men’s packing list for Northern Italy

Men’s casual shorts – I’d recommend several pairs of comfortable shorts for everyday use. Men’s chinos or jeans – I’d recommend a few pairs of chinos, jeans or cargo pants. Men’s T-shirts – Pack a few options of t-shirts too. Men’s shirts – A few shirts (long or short sleeved) are a good idea. I personally love these linen shirts . They look very cool!

Men’s vests – If you sweat a lot, you might find vest tops more comfortable in the heat. Men’s zip up hooded jacket – You might want to layer up if it gets chilly in the evenings. Men’s jumper – A smarter option for keeping warm.   Men’s sports tops – For active days, something like this is really useful as it’s super-absorbent. Men’s sports shorts – If you’re doing some adventurous hikes or activities, you’ll want shorts you can move freely in. Swimming trunks – The more fun the pattern, the better! These ones have pockets and are quick dry too. Baseball cap – Look for one with a mesh back like this one , so it’s more breathable. Sunglasses – You can’t beat a classic pair of these Ray Bans !

Other general items to pack for Northern Italy

If you’re planning your trip, you should think about more than just clothing when you start packing. Here are a few items I’d recommend adding to your suitcase…

Insect repellent – There are plenty of really good insect repellents like this one . If you’re travelling with kids you might want to buy a specific children’s insect repellent too.

Bite relief – I usually take an after bite / anti-itch cream like this , that helps to soothe any bites. I also swear by this amazing Bite Away Pen , which sends a small electric shock to the itchy part of the bite. It takes a bit of getting used to at first (and sometimes hurts a tiny bit), but it does work. I’ve done a full review of the item (as it goes everywhere with me!!) so feel free to read more here . 

Travel towel – A fast-drying microfibre towel like this one will come in handy on your trip. These are great not only for when you fancy a swim, but also when you want to sit down on the ground or to wipe your sweaty face on a humid day!

Sun cream – It’s important to apply suncream throughout the day. I’d recommend finding a brand which isn’t too heavy on chemicals, or is almost totally natural, like this one made by Sun Bum . 

Sunglasses – It’s important to protect your eyes when you visit a holiday destination like this one. I’d recommend investing in some high-quality UV protected sunglasses. I’ve owned a pair of these Ray Bans for a few years now and love them!

Sun hat – You’ll definitely want a sun hat like this to protect yourself on all of those sunny days!

After sun or aloe vera – Don’t forget some soothing cream incase you do burn. I really like this one made by Ultrasun . It’s lightweight and feels lovely on your skin.

Rain jacket – Be prepared for those sporadic rain showers. As you won’t need it for warmth, I’d recommend a lightweight waterproof jacket that packs down small. Something like this would be perfect.

Umbrella – I’d also recommend an umbrella for rainy season. I’d been looking for a super compact option for ages, and finally found this one which fits in my small handbag and is nice and sturdy.

Daypack backpack – I used a small backpack for day-to-day adventures, which could fit a water bottle, camera, sun cream and bug spray. I also took a small shoulder bag to use for going for dinner in the evenings. If you’re looking for something nice and small, lightweight, water-resistant and that will fit all your essentials, I’d recommend this daypack . It’s got some very handy zip-up pockets too!

Reusable water bottle   – I always recommend packing a reusable water bottle for travel. Even if you can’t drink the tap water, it means you can top up from giant bottles or water coolers rather than buying lots of plastic bottles. Personally I’d recommend the  Chilly’s water bottles . I’ve got a few in different sizes and they are excellent quality! I also really like these bottles with straws . They’re really easy to drink from, they have a strap, never leak and hold a good volume.

Power bank – It depends how much you use your phone on holiday, but I used mine a lot during my trip, snapping photos and videos along the way. A portable battery pack is a great idea so you don’t have to worry about running out of charge at an important moment.

I have a few made by Anker and they’re great quality and have lasted for a long time. This is the one I’m using at the moment , which is really small (similar size to my phone) but stores lots of charge and has a fast charging capability. 

Plug adapter – I pack this universal travel adapter for all of my travels. It charges up to 6 devices at once, using a plug or USB sockets. Plus, it can be used anywhere in the world. It’s one of my fave travel gadgets!

Dry bag – I’m really happy I invested in a dry bag like this . It’s made from a thick plastic and is totally waterproof. These dry bags are perfect for adventures on the water, visiting waterfalls, or if you think it’s going to rain heavily. I’d recommend a small one for your phone and camera gear, or a larger one if you want to use it as your main bag for an activity.

Waterproof phone case – Similarly, if you want to take your phone out and about in the water, I’d recommend getting a waterproof phone case. There are quite a few to choose from, but I’d recommend reading the reviews! You need this to protect your phone and be 100% watertight after all! I bought these Moko cases myself and my partner and they’ve been great. We’ve used them on several trips snorkelling and to waterfalls now, and no leaks!

I hope you’ve enjoyed my northern Italy road trip! Looking to explore more of the country? Check out my southern Italy road trip itinerary ! 

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Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

4 thoughts on “The Ultimate Northern Italy Road Trip: Routes, Sights, Guides, Maps And More”

Italy is one of my favourite places to visit! I’m desperate to visit Milan, Cinque Terre and Lake Como! So many beautiful places to explore!

Thank you Jess! I hope you get to visit soon. I absolutely adore Italy – esp the food!

What about Lake Garda and the Dolomite area? There is so much to see there but only Italian and Germans seem to know about this area.

Love that area too! So many places to choose from but this felt like a great route to pack a lot in!

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3 Best Day Trips from Venice

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.

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.

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The Perfect Five Day Venice Itinerary

By: Author Kate O'Malley

Posted on Last updated: May 23, 2023

Home >> Europe >> Italy Travel Guide >> The Perfect Five Day Venice Itinerary

If you’re wondering how many days to spend in Venice, the short answer is as long as you like. Venice is elegant and enchanting; with every turn of the corner, something new will amaze.

Whether your stay is short or long one, you will discover much but still be left wanting more. While Venice will more than captivate your attention, there is much to see and do in Venice beyond the canals of Italy’s most romantic city.

And, this Venice trip cost guide will also show you, Venice doesn’t have to be as expensive as you might think. 

If I were not King of France, I would choose to be a citizen of Venice. – Henry III

Table of Contents

Want to Plan the Perfect Venice Itinerary?

We have put together a five-day Venice itinerary, including day trips from Venice to give you the best of Venice and beyond.

Want to Know the Best Time to Travel to Europe? We’ve got you covered with the Best Time to Visit Europe whether it’s the beach you crave, perfect hiking weather or exploring Europe’s cities.

Arriving in Venice

If you are flying into Venice, for first-timers, taking a water taxi or ferry (Vaporetto) from the airport offers the most beautiful first glimpse of Venice, an experience you will never forget.

A one-way ferry from the airport will cost approx €15 pp.

By Water Taxi:

A shared water taxi,  at approx €32 pp.

By Private Water Taxi:

A private water taxi in Venice is an indulgence we can highly recommend to anyone with the budget. There’s nothing quite so special or chic as being transferred from the airport to your hotel in a private Venetian water taxi.

A  private airport transfer  at around €190 for a group of up to six.

You Might Also Like : More Italian Travel Planning Ideas

• Rome Travel Guide with 3 & 4 Day Rome Itinerary
• Discover the Best Things to do in Naples , from an incredible culinary heritage to a fascinating history.
• Plan an incredible Italy road trip with these fantastic Italian road trip itineraries .

Before You Go – Venice Travel Essentials

Stylish Sunglasses for all Occasions

Anti-Theft Handbag

Comfortable Walking Shoes

See Our Complete Guide to the Best Anti-Theft Travel Gear and Safe Travel Tips

Check the Latest Hotel Deals for Venice

Day 1 Tick the Lists See the Venice Highlights

“Getting Lost in Venice” is a phrase you will often hear about this labyrinth of a city. Getting lost is the best advice you can get.

Even armed with a map or your phone’s trusty sat nav you will still lose yourself in the maze of canals and countless bridges. Don’t fight it, embrace it!

Get up Early to See the Best of Venice

Our advice- wake up very early and hit the streets by 7 am. Early morning is a rare and fleeting time in Venice when you will nearly have the city all to yourself. Before the maddening crowds of tourists converge on the city blocking the streets and obscuring the best views.

Early morning is also a very good time to get your bearings in Venice- if that is at all possible.

Piazza San Marco

Make a beeline to Piazza San Marco and stroll the square unencumbered by throngs of tourists. You may well happen on the occasional bride and groom also making the most of the rare quiet for some opportune wedding snaps.

Basilica di San Marco – Saint Mark’s Basilica

Be the first to enter the Basilica di San Marco. A visit to the basilica will only last around 15 minutes, and queues will start forming early so don’t waste your day waiting for tickets.

St Mark Basilica Opening Hours:

It is best to check the official Basilico di San Marco site for opening and closing times as these will vary according to day and season.

Take a Free Venice Walking Tour

There are a number of free city walking tours in Venice. Most do not cover the main attractions such as St Mark’s Square instead offer fantastic insight into the less tourist-dense areas of the city.

Tours usually run twice a day, and there’s no limit to the different free walking tours you can do. Just Google “Free Walking Tours Venice”. We have done a number of these tours in Venice and thoroughly enjoyed them. They are also an excellent way to get your bearings in the city and a few insiders local tips.

You Might Also Like: Discover the heart of Italy with these traditional Italian recipes by region and learn how to recreate centuries of culinary tradition at home.

Take an After Hours Tour of St Mark’s Basilica

If you prefer to be exclusive, the  Saint Mark’s and Doge’s Palace VIP After Hours Tour in the evenings are a highlight but numbers are limited, so bookings are essential.

Expect a much higher ticket price, but for access to areas normally closed to the public and an hour-and-a-half private tour, the ticket price is very much worth it.

Related: Discover the Beauty of The Italian Ligurian Coast.

Doges Palace

Stroll over to Doges Palace. One of Venice’s most prominent landmarks, this now museum offers an incredible insight into the history of Venice. Cross the Bridge of Sighs from the palaces dark prison cells for a different view of the Grand Canal.

Tip for Visiting Doges Palace

Your entry to Doges Palace gives you free entry to three other museums in Venice. While you have three months to use these tickets, why not spend the afternoon exploring Venice one museum at a time.

Skip the line at Doges Palace with a Private Guided Tour

Take a Venetian Gondola Ride

Spoil yourself to a traditional Venetian gondola ride if it’s within your budget. After all, a gondola ride in Venice is one of those quintessential travel experiences.

Cost of a Gondola Ride:

Expect to pay in the vicinity of €80 per half hour during the day and €100 per half hour at night.

Sunset from Accademia Bridge

While the cost of a gondola ride in Venice may not be in everyone’s budget, watching the sunset from Accademia Bridge is free. For one of the best views in Venice , head to Accademia Bridge at sunset before setting off for an aperitivo.

Watching the gondola’s cruise down the Grand Canal at sunset while enjoying one of the most beautiful city views in the world is definitely within everyone’s Venice budget.

Day 2 Murano and Burano Islands

A trip to Venice is not complete without visiting the Islands of Venice. In particular, the famous glass and lace-making islands of Murano and Burano, two of the most charming islands in Venice and Italy .

Murano Island

Jump on a ferry to the island of Murano in the Venetian Lagoon. Famed for the high-quality glass produced there since 1291, when glassmakers were ordered to move their foundries from Venice to Murano.

The Venetian Republic feared fire could break out and destroy the mostly wooden buildings in the city. From the 14th century on, Murano’s glassmakers were held in such high regard they enjoyed an elevated social standing and many statutory privileges.

See a Murano Glass Blowing Demonstration

For centuries Murano’s glassmakers have handed down their craft from generation to generation, developing and perfecting many technologies ensuring a monopoly in the high-quality glass market.

Book yourself in for a 30 min glass blowing demonstration,  something not to be missed when visiting Murano Island. The glass factories also have showrooms offering good deals on original Murano Glass if you happen to be in the market.

Getting to Murano Island

• Take the line 12 Vaporetto (public ferry) from Fondamente Nove.
• The ride will take approx 15 minutes and will cost around €7.
• You can also do a half day Venetian Islands tour for approx €20.

Burano Island

In the afternoon visit the prettiest island in Venice and possibly Italy – Burano.

Shop for Burano Lace

As Murano is famous for its glass, Burano is famous for its lace. In the 16th century, the women of Burano were known for the delicate, detailed lace they produced. Intricate pieces created by not one, but as many as seven women.

Each woman specialised in a single stitch, so each piece, no matter how small was passed from one woman to the next taking as long as a month to complete.

Due to the time and cost of the finished piece, today’s Burano lace is made by machine but by no means any less beautiful.

Enjoy the Brightly Coloured Houses of Burano Island

Burano is also famous for its brightly coloured houses. Families used to paint their home different colours to designate where one family’s quarters finished, and the next started.

Legend has it such bright colours were used so during the thick fogs, the fishermen could establish which was their home. The tradition and legend have stuck leaving us one of the most photographed towns in Venice.

While Burano can be inundated with tourists, there is still a lovely local atmosphere. It is also touted as one of the best places in Venice to dine out.

Small local restaurants serve up exceptional food, especially locally caught seafood at very reasonable prices. A perfect place for a lazy lunch.

Getting to Burano Island

The line 12 Vaporetto will continue from Murano Island to Burano Island and return to Venice.

Day 3 Day Trip From Venice to Ferrara

Ferrara city on the banks of the River Po is a perfectly preserved medieval and Renaissance city largely overlooked by the average tourist.

At only 112kms south of Venice and only 50 km’s north of Bologna, it is a wonder the bike-friendly, car-free streets, within this beautiful walled city are not awash with tourists.

Ferrara is truly one of Italy’s little treasures. Medieval quarters, superbly intact, weave a path through the Jewish ghetto opening onto spacious streets revealing palaces and castles and impeccably preserved cathedrals.

Overtly rich in history, Ferrara also has a lovely laid back exuberance that may have you wanting to stay a weekend or more. Perhaps this is to do with the lack of traffic; a city that has twice as many bicycles than inhabitants.

Or, is it the contrast to Venice in the absence of tourists. Regardless, a day trip to Ferrara will be as rewarding as it is refreshing. A brief reprieve from the bustling hordes of Venice.

Getting to Ferrara

• Ferrara sits on the main train line that connects Bologna and Venice, 112kms from Venice.
• Travel times will vary between 50 minutes to 1 hr 20 min depending on direct services.
• There are more than 40 services per day. Ticket prices may range from €15 – €21 per trip.

Tip: Discounts of up to 50% on train fares are available if booked in advance. See train timetables and available discounts here

Day 4 A Day Trip From Venice to Verona

“In fair Verona, where we lay our scene”. – William Shakespeare

Shakespeare’s take on a collection of poems and stories written in the late 1500s about feuding families and star-crossed lovers made Verona a household name. Stories based loosely on real events and real families of Verona.

There is so much more to do in Verona than just the tourist pilgrimage to Juliet’s balcony. The city has a romantic outlook independent of the fictional tragedy – so much so that we voted it one of the most romantic places for couples to visit in Italy .

Visit Juliet’s Balcony

Of course, you could not visit Verona and miss the opportunity to stand under the balcony where Juliet is said to have stood in the courtyard where the real Capello family once lived.  With, of course, a few hundred others. But once you have had your fill of romance, Verona offers so much actual history to see and enjoy.

Visit the Roman Arena

The city boasts a wealth of Roman ruins, mainly the magnificent Verona Roman Arena which dominates the main square, Piazza Bra.

Once an arena for Roman gladiator battles, executions and plays, the 2000-year-old arena now hosts Verona’s famous summer opera season attracting opera’s biggest names.

Discover Verona’s Distinguished Past

Strolling the medieval streets, you will be rewarded with upmarket boutique shopping and charming traditional trattorias scattered amongst Roman columns and fossils embedded in the marble streets. The remnants of the cities distinguished past are evident everywhere you look, such as the elaborate tombs of the infamous Della Scala family.

Verona flourished under the Della Scala families rule in the middle ages. A family renowned for being both murderous tyrants as well as passionate patrons of the arts. The cities passion for the arts continues today.

A visit to Verona is so much more than just Romeo & Juliet. A beautiful and cultured city steeped in fascinating history, there is so much to do and see in Verona .

Related: Plan the Perfect Holiday in Sardinia

Getting to Verona

• Verona is 121 km’s inland from Venice.
• Train services run all day from Venice to Verona.
• Travel times will vary from 50 min to 1hr 20 min depending on the service.
• See times and prices for Verona here.  Look out for advance purchase discounts.

Verona Tour Recommendations:

• Verona Walking Tour with Skip-the-Line Arena Ticket
• Arena di Verona Opera Ticket Package
• Verona Food Tour with Guide
• Verona Cooking Class: The Real Taste of Italy

Day 5 A Morning in Padua Then, an Afternoon in Venice.

At only 45 km’s or half-hour by train from Venice, it is surprising Padua is often overlooked by many visitors to Venice. Although in saying that, we have it on good authority this is where Venetians move to when they have had enough of Venice.

Home to Italy’s second-oldest university, this handsome medieval town brimming with Renaissance grandeur and a stunning Byzantine skyline has a more youthful and carefree vibe than its bigger sister Venice.

Much like Ferrara, Padua boasts a bike-friendly city, plenty of pedestrian-only streets and large, uncongested piazza’s that feel like a breath of fresh air after tourist-clogged Venice. Padua oozes charm and history with a healthy dose of style and social pizzaz.

Aside from enjoying the space and sociability of this lovely town, Padua also offers quite a varied tourist itinerary. If you want to venture beyond delightful alfresco dining, open-air markets and boutique shopping. Padua hosts some of Italy’s most important historical treasures. 

See the Famous Padua Anatomical Theatre

The University of Padua was founded in 1222 and lays claim to Galileo among its many noteworthy tutors. It is also the home of the first and one of the most beautiful anatomical theatres in the world.

The beautifully preserved six-tier, wooden anatomy theatre was carved entirely from walnut in the 16th century. It is said students were serenaded by live lute music to calm their nerves as they watched cadavers being dissected.

The Basilica of Saint Anthony

Padua is also an important place of pilgrimage. The Basilica of Saint Anthony or “il Santo” was built in 1232 to enshrine the tomb of the Franciscan monk.

The magnificent church is not just the burial place of one of the world’s most revered saints; it is one of the most popular sacred monuments in the world. Many make the pilgrimage to witness the relics of Saint Anthony and to place a hand on his tomb.

Basilica di Santa Giustina and the Scrovegni Chapel

Then for some contrast, visit the Basilica di Santa Giustina and the tomb of Luke the Evangelist. An imposing church although quite modest in comparison.

Then head to the Scrovegni Chapel to witness Giotto’s frescoes. Completed around 1305, the frescoes are considered one of the most important pieces of art in Italy and the western world.

Getting to Padua

• Padua is only 42 kms inland from Venice.
• Regular train services leave from Venice.
• Expect travel times of 25 mins.   See train timetables and prices here

Related: Plan a 7-10 day Northern Italy Itinerary

A Final Evening in Venice

As Padua is so close to Venice, it is possible to enjoy the best of this beautiful town and be back in Venice to appreciate the ebbing tide of tourists.

Take time to stroll the streets one last time then, settle in for an apertivo and watch the sun go down on one of the world’s most romantic cities. Five days in Venice might not be enough.

Related: Tour Croatia and Slovenia from Dubrovnik to Venice

Italy Tours from Venice

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Venice, Florence, Rome, Sorrento: signature (4* hotels) low carbon tour by train

Eco-comfort - tour of italy by train, train tours italy: venice, florence, rome, sorrento by train, northern lakes & cinque terre, italy by train, highlights of italy, flavors of italy & amalfi coast, northern italy venice to rome - 10 days (small group), italian treasures, in the footsteps of leonardo, private tour.

“This was a 25th Anniversary trip and it could not have been better!” Marcus Cronin, traveled in September 2022

• Train & Rail
• 4* hotels international standard
• Free to choose your included activities in each city
• 100% offset of tour's CO2 emission

“The breakfast spread was rich and satisfying at each stay. The informative travel documents were exceptional.” Diane, traveled in August 2023

• Admire Pisa's Leaning Tower and Siena's Duomo
• Drive through Amalfi Coast's scenic villages
• Taste Chianti wines in a Tuscan vineyard

“Sharing her wealth of knowledge in Italy made it an incredibly enjoyable and easy trip.” Jeffrey William Phillips, traveled in May 2024

• • Professional guide for the entire duration of the tour
• • High speed train transfer
• • Guaranteed departure

“The schedule was very doable and expertly crafted in terms of timing and location. We lived the Lake Como tour and the hotels in Venice & Milan.” Marilyn Brock, traveled in July 2024

• Sail across the charming towns of Lake Garda
• Discover Milan's iconic Duomo and fashion streets
• Stroll through Verona, the city of Romeo and Juliet

“Having someone else work out the logistics of a multi destination vacation was worth every penny we paid.” ANDREA PAIN, traveled in September 2023

• Christmas & New Year
• Admire the St. Mark's Basilica and explore Venice onboard a gondola
• Visit Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore
• Wander the streets of historic Florence and see the famous Duomo

“The recommendations for restaurants, museums, and walking paths were excellent.” Dana T, traveled in April 2019

• In-depth Cultural
• Sightseeing
• See the famous statue of David
• Ride a vaporetto around Venice
• Taste incredible Italian cuisine

“Excellent service thank you guys.” Eddie Burks, traveled in May 2022

• See St Mark's Basilica, Rialto Bridge and Doge´s Palace in Venice
• Visit the breathtaking Colosseum, Pantheon and Roman Forum
• Admire Santa Maria del Fiore, one of the largest churches in the world

• Taste Chianti wines and enjoy Siena's medieval charm
• Explore Venice with a walking tour and gondola ride
• Tour Bologna's historic sites and Florence's art

“The accommodations were not needed in Venice, but our stays in Roma and Amalfi were lovely.” Jonathan Kingsley, traveled in March 2024

• Visit iconic villages like Positano and Amalfi
• Explore Venice with a guided walking tour
• Cruise along the stunning Amalfi Coast

• Ride a private water taxi in Venice
• Private tour of the Uffizi Gallery
• Priority access to The Last Supper

More about Italy

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Rome to Venice Road Trip Itinerary – 10 Days in Italy 

There are so many beautiful cities in Italy, but two of the highlights have to be the capital city of Rome and the romantic city of canals, Venice. So what better than an Italian road trip that takes you between the two. 

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. This means that if you click a link and purchase something I’ve recommended I may earn a small commission. This does not affect the price you pay but helps me to run this site. You can read my full affiliate disclosure here.

10 Day Rome to Venice Road Trip Itinerary Summary

Day 1-3 rome, day 3-5 montepulciano.

• Day 5-7 Florence 

Day 7-8 Modena (or Bologna)

• Day 8-10 Venice

Tips for driving in Italy

The trickiest driving in this Italian road trip will be driving in and out of the big cities. Particularly Rome and Florence, which both have Limited Traffic Zones (Zona Traffico Limitato/ZTL). This means you can’t drive in these areas unless you have authorisation or are a local resident. For Venice, you will need to either park outside the city and take the train in, or park in one of the multistory car parks at the entrance to the city (or drop your car off when you arrive). Once out on the motorways or smaller roads driving is much like anywhere else. It’s best to hire a smaller car for this trip so you can navigate some of the narrow Italian roads and ensure parking is available and/or included when booking accommodation. All recommended hotels in this article have parking. When booking a rental car , check the small print for one way fees.

Hire a car in Italy.

Fly into Rome and spend a few days exploring the ancient city. There are so many incredible historical and cultural sites in Rome you could spend weeks here and still only scratch the surface. But in a few days, you can see the highlights. 

Things to Do in Rome

• Visit the Colosseum
• Admire the Pantheon
• Spend a morning at Vatican City
• Explore Palatine Hill and the Forum 
• Take a trip up Gianicolo Hill
• Have aperitvo and dinner in Trastevere
• Visit Trevi Fountain
• Climb the Spanish Steps 
• Relax at Villa Borghese
• Have rooftop drinks at Hotel Cesari 
• Eat Carbonara, Cacio e Pepe and Supplì

Read our full three day Rome itinerary.  

Where to Stay in Rome 

Budget – Dulcis In Fundo is set in a historic building with modern, air-conditioned rooms. Located on the main street in Trastevere. Parking costs €1.50 per hour nearby.

Mid-range – Domus Monamì offers elegantly furnished rooms in a historical Roman building in Trastevere. There is a lovely terrace and shared lounge for guests to use. Free street parking is available nearby.

Luxury – Hotel Palazzo Manfredi has incredible views of the Coliseum from the rooftop terrace and some of the spacious rooms have a view of the ancient ruins along the Roman Forum. Private parking costs €60 per day.

Find accommodation in Rome

Day 3 Rome to Montepulciano 

Drive to the beautiful medieval and Renaissance town of Montepulciano in Tuscany. On the way, stop at the famous hilltop town of Civita di Bagnoregio, which can only be accessed via a pedestrian suspension bridge, and at the lakeside town of Bolsena.

Enjoy a few days in Montepulciano, known for its excellent wine, panoramic views of the Val d’Orcia and Val di Chiana valleys and Renaissance, medieval and Etruscan history. There are also lots of excellent day trip options from here too. 

Things to Do in Montepulciano

• Go wine tasting and try Vino Nobile di Montepulciano  – Cantina De’Ricci, located in the Renaissance-era Palazzo Ricci is an excellent place to try it. 
• Visit the Tempio di San Biagio – Renaissance church
• Explore the Piazza Grande and wander along Il Corso
• Climb the tower in Palazzo Comunale (the town hall) for beautiful views 
• See an Etruscan cave
• Eat pecorino cheese from nearby Pienza, pici alle briciole (pasta with breadcrumbs), and Chianina steak
• Take a day trip to San Filippo Thermal Springs or Chianciano Thermal Baths
• Visit World Heritage listed Val d’Orcia

Read more about Montepulciano in our Tuscany guide.

Where to Stay in Montepulciano

Budget – Pacifico is a farm stay a short walk from Montepulciano. Rooms have private bathrooms and share BBQ facilities and a garden. Breakfast and parking are included.

Mid-Range – We had a great stay at Locanda San Francesco , which has an excellent bar and restaurant and views of the valleys. Free parking on site. 

Luxury – The 4-star Palazzo Carletti is located in Montepulciano’s historic centre, set in a Mediaeval building that features original frescoes, high ceilings and views over the Chiana Valley and Lake Trasimeno. Rooms are individually designed with separate sleeping and living areas. Free parking is available 300m from the hotel.

Find accommodation in Montepulciano

Day 5 Montepulciano to Florence 

Drive 1 hour and 30 minutes to Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance and the capital of Tuscany. You can take a detour to Siena, which adds around 40 minutes to the journey, but is well worth the stop. 

Day 5-7 Florence

Admire the city’s stunning architecture, art, and museums and enjoy delicious Tuscan cuisine for the next few days.  

Things to Do in Florence

• Visit the Uffizi Gallery to see Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus and da Vinci’s Annunciation
• Admire the Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore (The Florence Cathedral/Duomo)
• See Michelangelo’s David in the Accademia Galleries
• Stroll across Ponte Vecchio (Bridge)
• Visit Piazza della Signoria and admire Palazzo Vecchio, the Fountain of Neptune and Perseus with the head of Medusa
• Walk up to Piazzale di Michelangelo for the best view across the city
• Eat Bistecca alla Fiorentina (Florentine Steak)

Read our full Tuscany road trip itinerary. 

Where to stay in Florence 

Budget – Residenza Conte di Cavour & Rooftop is situated 200 m from Accademia Galleries and has a rooftop terrace. Parking is €40 per day.

Mid-Range – Relais Piazza Signoria is located on the corner of Piazza Signoria and offers studios and apartments, some with terraces. Parking is €40 per day.

Luxury – The 4-star Hotel Berchielli is located on the River Arno, with views of Ponte Vecchio. Rooms are decorated in a classic style with antique furniture and details. Parking is €37 per day.

Find accommodation in Florence  

Day 7 Florence to Modena (or Bologna)

Continue on your Italian road trip to Modena. Along the way, you can stop in Bologna, or if you prefer you can spend the next few days in Bologna instead. However, I love Modena and think it’s well worth an inclusion on a Rome to Venice itinerary. 

Modena is the birthplace of Luciano Pavarotti, the home of Maserati, Ferrari, Lamborghini and Ducati and a foodie heaven, producing traditional Balsamico di Modena (balsamic vinegar), Prosciutto and Parmigiano Reggiano.

Things to Do in Modena

• Explore the covered Albinelli Market – full of delicious Italian food
• Eat at three Michelin star Osteria Francescana – winner of the world’s best restaurant in 2016 and 2018. (Book at least 6 months in advance)
• Admire the UNESCO listed Duomo di Modena
• Visit Palazzo dei Musei and Estense Galleries
• Watch an opera or concert at the Luciano Pavarotti Municipal Theatre
• Climb Torre Ghirlandia (between April and October)
• Visit an acetaia and learn about the production of balsamic vinegar
• Check out the Ferrari Museums
• Take a trip to a Parmigiano Reggiano factory 
• Eat prosciutto, tortellini, lasagne and tagliatelle al ragù

Read about Modena in our Emilia Romagna itinerary. 

Where to Stay in Modena

Budget – Ostello San Filippo Neri is located 700m from Modena Cathedral and has rooms with shared and private bathrooms. There is a shared kitchen and living area. Free public parking is available nearby.

Mid-Range/Luxury – Vittorio Veneto 25 has modern rooms a short walk from the centre. Free public parking is available nearby.

Super Luxury – Hotel Rua Frati 48 is a 5-star hotel with frescoed rooms, a restaurant, private parking, a fitness centre and a bar. Private parking costs €50 per day.

Find accommodation in Modena

Day 8 Modena to Venice 

Take the final stretch of your drive to Venice, stopping in Padua. Visit the Scrovegni Chapel, which houses frescoes by the Italian artist Giotto and explore the botanical garden and the historic university – which is one of the oldest in the world (and also where my husband studied!). 

Day 8-10 Venice 

Spend the last few days of your Italian trip in this unique and romantic city. Parking is difficult in Venice, so you have a few options. Drop your rental car off and take the train into Venice, or park in Treviso or Venice Mestre and take the train from there. Alternatively, there is a multistory in Piazzale Roma which costs €39 for 24 hours.

Things to Do in Venice

• Hire a gondola and admire the city from the water 
• Admire the colourful buildings and lacework in Burano 
• Visit a glass-blowing factory in Murano 
• Marvel at the the Basilica di San Marco , the Torre dell’Orologio and the Doge’s Palace in Piazza di San Marco
• Visit during Carnevale or the Biennale for an added experience
• Eat cicchetti and drink a spritz along Fondamenta dei Ormesini 

Where to Stay in Venice

Budget – B&B Exclusive features Venetian-style rooms with shared bathrooms a 5-minute walk from Venezia Santa Lucia Train Station and Piazzale Roma. 

Mid-Range – Ca’ Amadi is set in a 13th-century palace, a 5-minute walk from the Rialto Bridge.

Luxury – Residenza d’Epoca San Cassiano overlooks the Grand Canal and is a 5-minute walk from Rialto Bridge. The 14th-century villa is furnished with antiques and Murano glass chandeliers. 

Super Luxury – Baglioni Hotel Luna is a 5-star hotel set 80 m from Saint Mark’s Square, with views over the lagoon. 

Find accommodation in Venice

How to Extend Your Italy Road Trip

If you have more time, you can continue from Venice to Verona and Lake Garda , or head north into the beautiful Dolomites . You could also head northeast from Rome at the start of your trip and spend a few days in Umbria .

Where should I stop between Rome and Venice?

Florence is one of the most popular stops between Rome and Venice, but it’s definitely worth stopping at some of the smaller towns and villages such as Montepulciano and Moderna. In Umbria, you could stop at Perugia, Spello and Spoleto, in Tuscany, at Siena and San Gimignano and in Emilia Romagna at Bologna and Ferrara. 

What is the best month to go to Venice?

Venice is a great city to visit all year round. Summer is the most expensive and you may wish to avoid July and August as it will be very hot. Aiming for Spring and Autumn is a good choice, but winter is also nice though cold. 

How long is a car journey from Rome to Venice?

It takes about 6-7 hours to drive from Rome to Venice. You could do it all in one go, but much better to stop along the way and explore some of the beautiful Italian cities, towns and countryside. 

Can you travel from Venice to Rome by train?

Yes! This is a great option if you are short on time. The train from Rome to Venice takes less than four hours –  3 hours and 15 minutes on the fastest service. There are multiple departures daily. 

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Road trip from Rome to Venice

Travelling between the two iconic cities of Rome and Venice is an incredible road trip which takes you to some of the most celebrated natural landscapes in Italy. The route is peppered with world-renowned historical sites and attractions which are sure to leave lasting memories.

It takes 12 hours 30 minutes to drive the 960-km road trip from Rome to Venice, visiting Florence, Pisa, Cinque Terre, Lake Garda and Verona on the way. Or take a shorter route via San Marino to visit Assisi, Bologna, Rimini and Parco del Delta del Po.

From the sun-drenched Tuscan landscape, sparkling Mediterranean Sea and quaint hill towns, to buzzing city restaurants and stunning national parks, there's something to inspire nearly every traveller on this fabulous road trip.

How far is Venice from Rome, and how long will the road trip take?

The longer of our two recommended road trips (the Florence Route) takes an indirect but scenic 960-km route through Florence, Pisa and the Cinque Terre.

The driving time for this route is around 12 hours 30 minutes, not allowing for any traffic you hit on the way, but with so many world-famous monuments to see along the way we'd suggest taking at least 4 days for the trip.

For a shorter but no less impressive road trip, you can also travel the 660-km route via San Marino which will take around 9 hours and 30 minutes to drive.

Although they're not the most direct ways to travel between Rome and Venice, both of these road trips are a manageable length and let you see some spectacular parts of Italy. Keep on reading to help you decide which route to take.

Best road trip route from Rome to Venice

By taking local roads instead of the highway you could spend weeks exploring Italy on your way from Rome to Venice, but to help you with your planning we've put together two fabulous road trip routes.

Taking you through the iconic Tuscan landscape and through world-renowned sights including the Leaning Tower of Pisa and The Duomo di Firenze, your memories of the epic Florence Route will last a lifetime.

It's an opportunity to visit the unique Cinque Terre on Italy's western coast, with breathtaking views and picturesque walks between each town. You'll stop at wonderful historical sites including Castenedolo, enjoy local speciality meals in Parma, or take a sailing boat across the calm waters of Lake Garda.

The more direct route via San Marino also takes you to some amazing destinations. You can visit the breathtaking manmade waterfalls of Cascata delle Marmore, which are illuminated so beautifully once the sun sets, and admire the natural beauty of Parco Nazionale dei Monti Sibillini.

This route also takes you briefly to the Mediterranean coast as you pass through Rimini and you'll also be able to see historical sites in San Marino and spot wildlife in the stunning Parco del Delta del Po.

With two such fantastic routes available it might be hard to pick just one of them to enjoy, so why not consider making this into a round trip for a truly epic Italian adventure?

The Florence Route

This road trip starts out on some of the country's fastest roads, the E35 and A1, which you'll follow north up through Lazio and Umbria until you reach Florence in Tuscany.

After spending some time exploring the delights of Florence, head west out of the city on the Firenze-Pisa-Livorno Road which will take you to the next major city on this route, Pisa.

From Pisa, pick up the E80 and follow it north as it runs parallel to the Mediterranean coast. Take the exit at Piano to descend along the winding road towards beautiful Cinque Terre.

Moving on, retrace your route back to the E80 and head south again until you cross the River Magra, which marks the border between Tuscany and Liguria. Here, change onto the E33 which starts out running alongside the Magra on its way towards Parma, where you'll join the A1 again.

You can bypass the city of Piacenza to join the E70 which heads north past Cremona then on to Lake Garda. Take your time to hop off the highway and explore this beautiful area, starting by following the SS45bis to Maderno then returning south along the lake shore when you're ready to carry on towards Venice.

Once you're back on the E70 the rest of the route is straightforward to navigate as you simply follow the highway all the way to Venice. Along the way you'll pass Verona and Padua before you reach the famous canals of Venice.

The San Marino Route

This route also starts out along the E35 and A1, but this time leave the highway at Caldare to drive through Umbria on smaller state roads which will take you through Terni, Trevi and Assisi.

Continue north from Assisi through Palazzo and Petrignano then turn onto the SS318. Turn off at Branco to follow the road through Gubbio before waving goodbye to beautiful Umbria and continuing your journey through Le Marche to Calmazzo, where you'll turn left to head towards Urbino.

From here you'll slow the pace a little, follow the winding back roads through Casinina and Montelicciano before arriving in the city state of San Marino.

Leaving San Marino to the north, pick up the SS72 which will take you out to the E55, the Autostrada Adriatica. Follow this to Ravenna then turn inland to connect with E45 to Bologna.

From Bologna, follow the Autostrada to Ferrara then on to Padua, from where it's just a short final stretch on the E70 to reach Venice.

Best places to stop between Rome and Venice

The driving distance means you'll need to stop at least once on your road trip from Rome to Venice. We've picked out some atmospheric places to spend the night so that your hotel stay becomes just another amazing part of this unforgettable experience.

Watch the sunset over the Mediterranean in Cinque Terre

The coastal area Cinque Terre, or ‘five towns', is the perfect midway stop off if you're taking the Florence Route. It's around midway between Rome and Venice and an opportunity for some rest and relaxation in the most stunning location.

It's best to explore the Cinque Terre by foot, so you can take advantage of a break from driving when you visit this wonderful location. Park your vehicle in one of the many car parks in Monterosso and walk to the train station to explore during your stay.

Cinque Terre is unrivalled when it comes to beautiful landscapes, impressive sights and delicious cuisine, so follow the Cinque Terre Trails which wind between the different towns and across the landscape. The Cinque Terre Card enables you to explore the most popular sites across the towns, using the train between them if needed.

There's no avoiding the fact that Cinque Terre is a popular destination, but to see a quieter part of Cinque Terre, head to the pretty beaches of Borgo Antico to soak in the sights. Head out on a boat tour to experience the best views – a sunset cruise is also particularly recommended.

Over in Monterosso al Mare, sit back and relax with an afternoon of wine tasting at Buranco Agriturismo. If you want to stay longer, a delicious speciality dinner is also available to enjoy.

A stone's throw from the coast, with a terrace and gardens where you sit back and enjoy the views, Ca' D'Andrean offers a fantastic overnight stay . It's close to several popular beaches including Riomaggiore and each room enjoys unrivalled views across the stunning landscape.

The hotel has a highly rated traditional breakfast to get your day off to a great start and is close to plenty of other cafes and bars where you can try out the local cuisine.

It's also close to other attractions including Parco della Rimembranza and Amedeo Lia Museum.

Cars can't be parked inside Manarola itself but parking is available nearby and as Ca' D'Andrean is close to two train stations, it's easy to leave your car behind and travel through the Cinque Terre by train.

Stay in historic San Marino

San Marino is roughly halfway along the route from Rome to Venice. Known for its historic sites, it's teeming with castles, churches and cathedrals so it's a fascinating place to visit.

San Marino claims to be the oldest surviving republic, having been founded in 301 AD, and there are plenty of opportunities to learn more about the history and culture of the area.

The Three Towers, Guaita, Cesta and the Montale Tower, are prominent attractions in San Marino. They are even included on the San Marino flag. Beautiful views can be seen on top of the Guaita tower in particular.

Back down at ground level, head to Piazza della Libertà, a picturesque piazza where you can sit back and watch the Guardia di Rocca changing guards. Of course, you can also enjoy a coffee in one of the many cafes located on this main square.

Cesta Tower is another landmark with incredible views over San Marino. Visit here to learn more about Archaic Arms with informative displays and tours.

When you've finished exploring for the day, head back to Titano Suites where you can relax on one of the terraces to enjoy the evening sunshine and spectacular views - with an Aperol Spritz from the onsite bar too perhaps?

The hotel is in a great location within sight of Palazzo Pubblico Palace and the Basilica of St Marino and has elegantly decorated rooms. There's also a restaurant and bar on the property and delicious dining options on the doorstep.

Free parking is available on site, so once you arrive in San Marino it will be easy to leave your car and explore by foot for the rest of your stay.

Where to stay when you reach Venice

Located in the heart of Venice just yards from St Mark's Square (San Marco) and other top attractions including the Bell Tower of San Marco and Palazzo Franchetti, Rosa Salva Hotel has elegantly designed rooms and its terrace is the perfect place to enjoy the incredible views of Venice.

You can enjoy the delicious traditional buffet breakfast which is served here every day or head out on foot to nearby cafes and restaurants.

As with many hotels in Venice, you'll need to park off-site during your stay, then it's easy to get to Rosa Salva by water bus or taxi. With this unrivalled location exploring the area by foot is a must.

Things to see on a road trip from Rome to Venice

There's so much to see and do on a road trip from Rome to Venice that the challenge will be deciding how to fit everything in! Here are some of top picks for each route to help you narrow down your favorites.

• Arezzo Cathedral - A highlight during a visit to Arezzo, take a guided tour around this incredible cathedral before climbing up the Bell Tower for panoramic views across the city.
• The Duomo di Firenze - A must-see when visiting Florence, the Renaissance Era is best seen through its artwork and sculptures and as a result attracts millions of visitors each year. Take on the hundreds of steps to the top of the Duomo for incredible views.
• Leaning Tower of Pisa - World-famous due to its height and not properly supported foundations! Stand in the foreground and pretend to keep this bell tower up – it's one of the photographs you wouldn't want to go home without.
• Massa - In this historic town, the popular Diocesan Museum is a good place to visit to understand more about the region's history and art. Afterwards head for a relaxing afternoon by the sea at Marina di Massa.
• Cinque Terre - Pretty colored houses and stunning views are throughout the ‘5 towns' of Cinque Terre. Ramble between them where you can, or get a Cinque Terre freedom pass where you can hike or take the train between each interesting town.
• Parco Nazionale dell' Appennino Tosco-Emiliano - An expansive park teeming with outdoor adventure. For thrill seekers, there is the chance to rock climb and mountain bike through the woodlands or enjoy more scenic gentle walks through this park.
• Parma - Known best for speciality foods, a visit to Parma wouldn't be complete without a food tour to learn about – and sample – plenty of Parmigiano Reggiano and Parma Ham. Delicious!
• Torrazzo of Cremona - Standing next to Cremona Cathedral, this bell tower at the heart of Cremona is one of the tallest in the world. Known as the Vertical Museum, head here to climb the tower for the impressive views.
• Castenedolo - A hidden gem, Castenedolo is full of interesting historical and religious sites to visit, including Parrocchia San Bartolomeo Apostolo.
• Lake Garda - This is Italy's largest lake, so big in fact that it's split across Verona, Brescia and Trento. A sailing tour across the calm waters is the best way to see the best sights and scenery of this impressive landscape.
• Verona Arena - The beautiful river city of Verona is a must-see stop-off. Head to the Verona Arena for a tour around this incredible amphitheater, which is even older than the Roman Colosseum and just as architecturally impressive.
• Vicenza - Take a spot at the central square here in Vicenza, the Piazza dei Signori. Head here after a busy day sightseeing to enjoy an aperitif, sit back and relax.

• Cascata delle Marmore - Stop off in Terni to picture the breathtaking manmade waterfalls, with many routes which let you see the sights from all angles. Arrive when the sun sets and the impressive waters are illuminated.
• Parco Nazionale dei Monti Sibillini - Stunning Monti Sibillini National Park is a must-visit natural site. The heights of Mount Vettore are nestled in the middle and there are many trails across this park to explore. Fancy resting your legs? Take a horse or donkey ride to explore even more of this landscape.
• Assisi - Explore Assisi by foot (car parks are easy to find outside the center) and learn more about this medieval town. A UNESCO World Heritage site, many pilgrims head here to visit the place where St Francis was born.
• Urbino - The huge Ducal Palace, Palazzo Ducale, is a key destination in Urbino. Make sure to take a guided tour around this Gothic work of art.
• San Marino - San Marino is teeming with castles, churches and cathedrals and there are plenty of opportunities to learn more about this area – the oldest republic in the world.
• Basilica di San Vitale - Stand in awe when arriving to see the interesting and original sights of Ravenna. Get a pass to visit all five signature monuments, including Battistero Neoniano, for a memorable and informative day trip.
• Bologna - Take some down time to wander the Quadrilatero, browsing the local market and quaint shops. After a busy few days sightseeing it's a great spot to unwind.
• Parco del Delta del Po - A bird lover's paradise, head here for the opportunity to spot some amazing wildlife across these wetlands. In Spring many head here from all over Europe as it is one of the best bird-watching spots around.
• Centro Storico Ferrara - Take in the sights and piazzas during a visit to Ferrara. Wander the pretty cobblestone streets, before heading to Piazza Cattedrale to visit the impressive cathedral that takes centre stage.

Both Routes

• Riserva Naturale della Marcigliana - This natural reserve near Rome is the perfect stop off to explore the pretty grasslands and medieval towers that dot the landscape.
• Castello Ducale Orsini - Stop off in Fiano Romano to explore this castle and feel like you're stepping back in time. There are plenty of quaint places for a bite to eat afterwards too.
• Scrovegni Chapel - Padua's Scrovegni Chapel is breathtaking. The beautiful paintings in this small church are by Giotto and are known throughout the world. A popular landmark and rightly so.

Best time to go on a road trip from Rome to Venice

Venice's museums and attractions are open all year round and make this destination absolutely one to visit whatever the season. The days are longer during the summer months, however there's plenty of evening entertainment when the sun goes down whatever the time of year.

The weather is warmer during summer, with average temperatures around 28 degrees Celsius, however, the hot weather, humidity and regular thunderstorms can make sightseeing a little uncomfortable at this time of year.

Summers see a large influx of tourists, so crowds are more likely. Accommodation costs will also be higher during this period, so if you plan to visit in the summer book ahead to secure the best accommodation and attraction prices.

The low season is at the start of the year when Venice also takes on an interesting winter atmosphere. Temperatures usually range from 4-7 degrees Celsius, but if you wrap up warm you'll still be able to see all the sights.

The temperatures also do not dip often to freezing, so the waterways for a gondola or water taxi still remain open whatever the season.

Although crowds can typically be smaller in the winter, Carnevale in February does bring in huge numbers of visitors, and it's easy to see why. Beautiful, colorful floats fill St Mark's Square during this historic event held since the 13th century.

Spring and fall are both great times to visit Venice, the shoulder months of the busier peak summer. Attractions and accommodation are not at a premium, so many tourist spots should also be slightly quieter – and cheaper. And with the weather also fairly mild, you can explore before the muggy summer heat descends.

There is plenty happening in Venice throughout the year that draws crowds in from around the world. This ranges from Venice Film Festival, the oldest film festival in the world, to many religious occasions celebrating faith and devotion.

In May, La Sensa sees a celebration of man and sea, where a huge regatta gathers a huge crowd with many vessels taking part. The Regata Storica in September is also a popular water-based festival to attend.

Watch as the skies over the waterways light up in early July for The Festa del Redentore, an absolutely breathtaking way to mark the end of the plague in 1577.

Whatever time of year you visit Venice, you're in for a real treat. It's a unique and iconic city packed full of culture, history and landscapes that will stay with you for a lifetime.

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