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Venice Day Trip From Rome: Here’s What You Need to Know..

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE

Planning a Venice day trip from Rome? 

This essential guide has everything you need to know about day trips to Venice from Rome. It includes the best method of travel between the two cities, the best tours available and what to expect on your Rome to Venice one-day trip. 

Venice, the Floating City , was founded in the 5th century and is a must-see for lovers of art and architecture . The unique and magical UNESCO World Heritage city is made up of 118 small islands . It is packed with ornate palaces, historic bridges, stunning churches and fascinating, characterful quarters . 

🌟In a rush, book #1 organised tour – Rome to Venice by train 🚅, which is the fastest 💨 and hassle-free way of visiting the City of Bridges and also includes hotel pick up & drop off. ➡️ CHECK RATES HERE

Venice day trip from Rome

There is no avoiding the fact that Venice day trips from Rome will be a long day out . However, if you are only visiting Italy once, we think a day trip to this memorable city is worth doing . 

Who knows when you will get the chance to visit Venice again? 

Venice Day Trip From Rome: At A Glance

Here are some of the most important things to know before planning and taking a Venice day trip from Rome. 

LOCATION | Venice (Venezia), Veneto, Northwest Italy

DISTANCE | 531 km (330 miles) from Rome or 5 hours and 11 minutes by car .

ENTRANCE | At present, Venice city centre is free to enter. However, there was a plan to charge day trippers to Venice as from January 2023 but that plan is currently on hold*.

DRESS CODE | There is no dress code for visiting Venice, though if you wish to enter churches, you will need to dress modestly. For example, St. Mark’s Basilica does not permit visitors wearing shorts, short skirts, singlets or strappy tops. 

BEST TIME TO VISIT | Venice is an extremely busy destination all year round (pre-pandemic visitor numbers peaked at 5.5 million people per year).

The Easter period and the peak summer months from June to August attract the largest crowds. We recommend visiting Venice in the shoulder season months of May, September, October and November , as you will enjoy smaller crowds and cooler temperatures.  

*We think it is likely to be introduced at some point in the near future. If the current plan is implemented, visitors must pre-book entry to Venice in advance online. In return, visitors will receive a QR code to scan at the different entrance points to the city.

The planned entrance fees will vary according to the time of year you visit but will range between €3 – €10 per person per day. 

Is A Day Trip From Rome To Venice Worth It?

Venice St Marco Square

Venice is a unique and atmospheric city. Once there, you can cover a lot of ground and attractions within one day either by foot or by boat. For these reasons, we think a Venice day trip from Rome is worth doing, especially if you are unlikely to get the chance to visit Venice again. 

However, a day trip to Venice from Rome will be a long day out and requires careful, advance planning. 

Choosing the right transport and itinerary for your trip to Venice from Rome is essential. It will make all the difference between a smooth, stress-free and fun Rome to Venice day trip or a nightmarish stressful day out where you spend all your time travelling and no time sightseeing. 

Best Organised Venice Tour From Rome

Due to the distance involved in travelling between the two cities, there is not a wide choice of Rome to Venice tours available. 

When researching tours from Rome to Venice, it is essential to assess how much time you will spend travelling and how much time you will get to spend in Venice sightseeing.

Venice Day Trip By Train From Rome – Private Tour

Organised day trips to Venice from Rome are a hassle free experience to see Venice and the iconic St Marco Squere.

This Rome to Venice tour packs a lot into one day, and apart from the train ride, you will be fully accompanied throughout your Venice day trip from Rome. This will save you time and energy and enable you to focus on your day trip. 

WHY BOOK THIS TOUR?

This private day trip from Rome to Venice by fast train lasts approximately 12 hours . It allows free cancellation up to 24 hours before the trip. If you want a hassle-free day and a guide that will walk you around Venice and give you a lot of context and stories behind to what you see , then an organised Rome to Venice tour is the best option for you.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

You will depart Rome early on a high-speed train and arrive in Venice around 11 am. Your guide will meet your private group at the train station to begin your Venice day tour.

The first stop on this Rome to Venice day tour is a two-hour visit to St. Mark’s Square and St. Mark’s Basilica (your entrance to the Basilica is not included in the tour price). Afterwards, you will pass by the Doges Palace, see the Grand Canal, cross the Rialto Bridge, plus visit the Teatro La Fenice and the Bridge of Sighs. 

Your guide will delve into the history and culture of Venice and will take you to local artisan shops and food stops during the day. He/she will then escort you back to the rail station for your return train to Rome. 

Driving From Rome To Venice

Venice day trip from Rome

If you are wondering how far is Venice from Rome, the simple answer is far! 

The two cities are 531 kilometres (330 miles) apart. If you want to drive from Rome to Venice, we think it cannot be done safely on a day trip, especially if you are a solo driver. 

We advise that you stay overnight in Venice (or nearby) or do the day trip as part of a longer Italian road trip around the northern regions. 

Why choose this option?

If you choose to road trip from Rome to Venice you will have the ultimate flexibility to stop where you want, when you want and for how long you want. It will enable you to visit other attractions along the route from Rome to Venice. 

Self-driving can also be a cost-effective form of transport if you are travelling as a family or part of a group. 

What to expect on day trips from Rome to Venice by car?

The main thing to expect is a long drive, at least 5 hours each way , depending on traffic. This is why we feel it is not advisable to safely drive a return trip from Rome to Venice in just one day. 

We recommend staying overnight somewhere en route. For example, depart early from Rome, make a leisurely drive to Venice with sightseeing stops along the way and then stay somewhere close to Venice that evening. Then, you can wake up early the next day, feeling refreshed for a full day of sightseeing in Venice.  

Alternatively, visit Venice from Rome as part of a longer Italian road trip and continue on from Venice to visit other northern Italy attractions such as Verona, Milan or the Italian lakes. 

If you choose to drive, the fastest driving route from Rome to Venice is on the E35 toll road . This autostrada is an easy road to drive, but it can get busy in peak season, especially in sections around Rome, Florence, Bologna and Venice.

  • You will incur extra costs including petrol, insurance, toll charges and parking.
  • Long drives in Italy are not suited for nervous, experienced drivers
  • Expect busy roads (including the toll road) in and around cities

Is it worth driving from Rome to Venice?

We think it is only worth driving from Rome to Venice if you stay overnight (or ideally two nights, one before and one after your sightseeing). It is also worth driving to Venice on a day trip if you incorporate the city into a longer Italian road trip.

Is it easy to drive from Rome to Venice?

Although it is a long drive, it is relatively easy to drive from Rome to Venice.

If you choose to hire a car, we recommend booking through Discover Cars . We use Discover Cars whenever we travel and have never been disappointed in either their service or their cars. 

Discover Cars is a comparison website which shows you the best cars available at the best prices for your travel dates. Their listings are detailed, accurate and ordered by best (and recent) reviews, so you know that you will be hiring from a trustworthy company. 

Getting From Rome To Venice By Bus

Venice day trip from Rome

We do not think a return Venice day trip from Rome is doable by bus – unless you want to spend 14 hours of your day on a bus!

If you want to travel by bus, we recommend staying overnight in Venice after your sightseeing before heading back to Rome the next day. Alternatively, use Venice as a base from which to explore the rest of northern Italy. 

Why choose this option? 

Travelling from Rome to Venice is ideal for people who do not feel confident about driving this long route by themselves. 

Travelling by bus is also a cost-effective option for solo travellers or couples. Plus, for hardy travellers who want to save money on accommodation, there is the option to travel from Rome to Venice on an overnight bus. 

What to expect travelling from Rome to Venice by bus

The bus from Rome to Venice will take between 6 hours 20 minutes and 9 hours 35 minutes , depending on the route, the time of the day you are travelling and the traffic conditions. 

Some indirect routes require a transfer onto another bus in Florence (with additional wait time) so if you want to get to Venice as quickly as possible, choose a direct bus. 

There are 3 – 4 bus departures a day from Rome’s Tiburtina Station . The earliest bus leaves at 7.30 am. The last bus leaves Rome at 11.55 pm and travels through the night, arriving in Venice the next morning at 7.45 am. Buses arrive at Venice Mestre or Venice Tronchetto. 

You can book a bus ticket from Rome to Venice online in advance with Omio, Flixbus or direct with Itabus.  

Itabus vehicles have table seats plus airline seats with extendable footrests and USB sockets. Each bus has free WiFi, a vending machine and a toilet. 

How much is the bus from Rome to Venice?

Bus fares vary depending on the company you book with, the day of travel and the time you choose to ride. 

One-way fares from Rome to Venice start from as little as €15 . The maximum you will pay on the bus is €26 one way. 

Getting By Train From Rome To Venice

Venice Burano

We think that travelling from Rome to Venice by train is the best option – especially if you only have one day to spare. 

The high-speed train from Rome to Venice takes between 3 hours 55 minutes and 4 hours 30 minutes. So, if you leave early enough, you can enjoy a full day of sightseeing in Venice before returning to Rome the same day. 

However, be aware that taking the slow train to Venice from Rome will take between 6 and 10 hours, so make sure you book – and travel on – the right train! 

Travelling from Rome to Venice by train is the fastest method of travel if you only have one day to visit Venice. 

The train is a scenic route, and you will see more on the train than if you drive. Plus, you will enjoy a stress-free, comfortable ride . You also will save time over driving as you won’t need to make stops to go to the toilet or to eat. 

What to expect travelling from Rome to Venice by train

Up to 28 trains a day depart from Roma Termini Station for Venice. The earliest Frecciarossa (high-speed train) departs Rome at 5.35 am, which will bring you to Santa Lucia Station in Venice just after 9 am. 

The high-speed trains are comfortable and offer both table and airline seats. Each seat has a plug socket. Trains are air-conditioned and have free WiFi, luggage storage, a cafe, drinks and snack trolley and toilets. 

How much does it cost by train from Rome to Venice?

A Rome to Venice day trip by train will cost between €73 and €99 per person each way. Tickets can be bought in advance online from Trenitalia or Italiarail. 

Is the train ride from Rome to Venice Scenic?

The Rome to Venice high-speed train takes a diagonal route across Italy, traversing the Apennine mountains . It also passes through Florence and Bologna. 

Along the route, you will experience rolling hills and countryside, towns, cities and tunnels. The final section of this train journey over the Venetian lagoon into Venice is stunning. 

Best Things To Do In Venice

One of the best things to do on your day trip Rome to Venice is to simply wander around soaking up the ambience and architecture of this wonderful city. It is our favourite thing to do when we visit! 

Cross the cute bridges and wander the maze of narrow lanes. Stop for a coffee and watch the world go by in St. Mark’s Square. Explore the Palazzo Ducale, The Doges Palace, the Peggy Guggenheim Art Collection, or the Correr Museum.

We’ve selected some of the best things to do on a Venice day tour from Rome below. 

Take A Gondola Ride

Gondola ride in Venice

Enjoying a gondola ride along the canals of Venice is on many visitors ‘must-do’ list. A gondola ride is a great way to see Venice from a different perspective. We think it is also a good opportunity to rest weary sightseeing feet. 

It is important to know that prices for gondola rides are officially set and are standard throughout Venice. You cannot negotiate with a gondolier for a cheaper price. Rides are more expensive in the evening than during the day.

Gondola rides last around 30 minutes though you can pay extra for more time if you wish. Boats accept up to six people so try to fill the gondola and split the expensive fare if you can. 

St Mark’s Basilica Tour

Venice day trip from Rome

This 1-hour skip-the-line tour is ideal for anyone on a one-day trip from Rome to Venice who is short on time. 

It includes a skip-the-line entry ticket to the popular Basilica, a 20-minute tour of St. Mark’s Square and a 40-minute tour of St. Mark’s Basilica itself. 

Your multilingual tour guide will give you more information than you could learn yourself in the same amount of time. Should your trip plans change, this tour allows a full refund up to 24 hours before departure. 

Don’t forget that to enter St. Mark’s Basilica, you will need to cover your shoulders and your knees. 

Take A Walking Tour In Venice

Canals of Venice Italy

We love joining these led by locals’ hidden gem walking tours wherever we go in the world. There is no better way to see a city than with a passionate local resident. 

This 2 hour walking tour will pass the famous sights of Venice but it also concentrates on quieter parts of Venice less visited by the majority of visitors. 

You will visit the Jewish Quarter and the romantic Cannaregio Canal as well as lesser visited churches, bridges and palaces. 

This highly rated tour has a maximum group size of 15 people, thereby ensuring an intimate and personal tour experience. A full refund is offered for cancellations up to 24 hours before departure. 

We highly recommend this insightful walking tour for your Rome day trip to Venice. 

Go On A Food Tour

Eating gelato in Venice from Rome day trip.

Food always adds a different perspective and insight to any destination, so we always recommend trying local foods, visiting local markets or taking a food tour. 

This engaging and comprehensive food tour will show you that there is much more to Venice’s food scene than just pizza and pasta. 

On this 3-hour, 8-stop tour, you will try Italian coffee, freshly baked pastries, cured meat, local seafood, Venetian wines and, of course, gelato.

The tour has a maximum of 15 guests and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure. 

Doge’s Palace

Bridge of Sights

If you want to pack as many attractions into your one-day trip to Venice from Rome as you can, this tour combines the Doges Palace and St. Marks Basilica. 

These are two of the most popular attractions in Venice so skip-the-line tickets could save you valuable time. 

You will enjoy a 1 hour 30 minute guided tour of the incredible Doges Palace, one of our favourite places to visit in Venice. The tour accepts a maximum of 50 visitors, so guests use a headset to ensure they can hear the guide clearly. You will then have a 1-hour tour of St. Mark’s Basilica and St. Mark’s Square.  

Venice Day Trip From Rome: FAQ

Venice Italy

What is the easiest way to get from Rome to Venice?

The easiest, quickest and most comfortable method of transport for a Venice day trip from Rome is the high-speed train. It leaves from Rome city centre and will bring you into the centre of Venice. The journey is scenic, comfortable and stress-free! 

How many hours do you need to explore Venice?

A few hours is enough to get a flavour of Venice and to say you have seen it. However, some people stay in Venice for weeks and still don’t feel they’ve seen everything the city has to offer. 

If you only have a few hours to spare, we think you will need at least 5 hours to see the principal sights. 

Is 1 day in Venice enough?

One day in Venice is enough to see the main attractions, to wander Venice’s narrow lanes and bridges and to take a quick trip on a canal. To fully explore the city and several islands, you will need to stay longer.

Is Venice walkable?

Venice is a very walkable and pedestrian-friendly city. It is considered to be one of the world’s best walkable cities, and you should expect to do A LOT of walking on Rome day trips to Venice. 

The historic heart of Venice is flat and car-free so it is easy to walk around safely. The principal attractions such as St. Mark’s Square, the Rialto Bridge and the Bridge of Sighs are all within a short walking distance of each other. 

Just bear in mind that Venice has 400 + bridges, so the terrain won’t always be easy and flat.

Venice Day Trip From Rome: Final Word

A Venice day trip from Rome will undoubtedly be a long day trip, even if you travel by train. But we think it is worth doing.  

There is nowhere in the world quite like Venice. The city is unmissable and you should grab the opportunity to visit Venice if you have the chance to.  

A day trip Rome to Venice will not offer much time in Venice itself. However, it will be sufficient to see the main attractions and to immerse yourself in the architecture and character that Venice is famous for. 

We promise that a day trip to Venice will kickstart a desire to return for a longer visit another time. 

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Robin is a full-time traveller from the Netherlands with 2 years experience in blogging. As a co-owner of various travel websites, he's known for his collaborations with top hotel brands and his expertise in finding the best accommodation deals.

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How to Do Venice in One Day from Rome

venice day trips from rome

A day trip from Rome to Venice? Is that even possible? Absolutely. Our Rome-based editor, Erica Firpo, has the plan.

VENICE – "Where should I go for a day trip out of Rome?"

That's probably the most popular question question people ask me when planning a trip to Italy. Tivoli, Napoli, Cività di Bagnoreggio, Bomarzo, Caserta, Spoleto, Siena ... there are so many sites, towns, and cities up my sleeve — all within reasonable distance. But here's one I never, until now, bothered to suggest: Venice.

Venice? Impossible from Rome, you say. It’s on the other side of the boot!

Not at all. Door-to-door, Roma Termini to Venezia Santa Lucia is a three-hour and 45 minute train on the Italo, the  alta velocità (high speed) train . Double down for the return, and that’s just under eight hours seated, time you can use to contemplate time travel and catch up on most of the first season of Dark .

Is a day trip too ambitious and frivolous? Yes, just like Venice and, at times, just like me. But look: You’re trying to maximize your precious time in Italy, right?

Canal in Venice

Plan of Action

To make the most of a Venice day trip, you're going to have to get up early. The best Rome departure is on the Italo 6:15 a.m. train , arriving in Venice at 10 a.m. A return at 7 p.m. gives you nine full hours to do whatever you want in La Serenissima. To make the journey even sweeter, Italo Treno offers day return fares at great prices. This is excellent incentive if, like me, you are competitive and thrifty. (Day-tripping from Florence is even easier, at a hair over two hours by train, with a comparatively luxurious 7:54 a.m. departure.)

Whether meandering or hitting the must-sees, you’ll need to have a plan. Download a Google Map beforehand to know where you’re going and how you’ll get there. Your choices are walking, water bus, and water taxi. If you want to be clever, customize a My Maps by dropping pins on cultural and food sites and download it onto your phone. ( Here’s mine. ) You're in for a long day, so I suggest powering up on protein and excitement (or else a lot of espresso) and wearing your most comfortable (and waterproof) walking shoes.

Most importantly, know where you're going to eat. For the day-tripper, my only suggestion (and my latest mantra) is get thee to a few bacari. A bacaro is a no-frills bar overflowing with people queued up for cicchetti , those whimsical Venetian appetizers, like creamed cod, pickled onions, and braised artichokes on bread, that are usually accompanied by a glass of wine. Service is quick once you are front and center at the counter.

My best tip: Keep spare euro in your pocket not only for cicchetti but also for the vaporetto , Venice's water bus system. The one-day fare costs €20, while a single, 75-minute fare is €7.50 and can be bought on board. Again, cash is king and makes everything go faster.

Gancaffee Quadri Venice, Italy

Best Day Ever

From the Santa Lucia station, take the #2 vaporetto to the San Marco stop, or, if you feel like walking, take Strada Nuova through Canareggio to San Marco, approximately 25 minutes. When you feel like you're getting lost, just look for the ubiquitous yellow "San Marco" signs on the walls with arrows indicating the path.

Piazza San Marco. This is it, and you're in awe. It is just like you imagined, down to the pigeons. But you need a little energy boost. Head to Grancaffè Quadri , one of Venice's oldest cafes on Piazza San Marco (now run by the Alajmo brothers, who also own the three-Michelin-starred Le Calandre ), for a cappuccino in a stunning setting, or to Rosa Salva for a hearty krapfen, a sweet, deep-fried dough filled with cream.

You are ready and you should be thinking of going up. Make sure you wait until it's past the hour, then take the elevator to the top of the iconic San Marco bell tower for a 360-degree view of Venice. Or head to the terrace of Basilica San Marco .

There rest of the day is up to you. My preference? Grab a spot in a campo (square) and enjoy the view. My favorites? Campo Santa Maria in Formosa, Campo Santo Stefano, and Campo della Pescara by the Rialto Bridge. There is nothing better to do in Venice than watch the city.

San Marco, Venice, Italy.

Is your stomach growling? I thought so. Time for cicchetti. My go-to bacari are Da Fiore (San Marco/Santo Stefano), Cantine del Vino già Schiavi (Dorsoduro), and Osteria da Carla (San Marco). Order a glass of wine and bacalà mantecato , the local cod dish on toast, and anything else that catches your eye. Don't be afraid of the sardines: Sweet and sour sarde in saor are delicious.

Once you've filled up, you'll need to get moving, especially if the crowds inside pick up. If you're thinking about a gondola ride (it's okay if you want to be touristy), head outside the Piazza San Marco area to Rialto or Cà Sagredo and give yourself at least an hour for the ride. Since I don't particularly care for gondola prices and never feel like I have enough time, I take the charming traghetto that crosses the Canal at Giglio near the Gritti Palace to Dorsoduro in a 30-second boat ride. The traghetto is my discount option to a gondola. It's a gondola ferry without the frills and only costs €2 for a one-way ride. The traghetto seats up to ten people, all close together, so by the time you've crossed, you've made new friends.

Gondolas in Venice, Italy.

I always try to visit one museum in Venice, and lately I've been suggesting Peggy Guggenheim Collection , not simply because I used to work there, but because the water-side palace is beautiful and the collection of modern and somewhat contemporary art is unique, just like Peggy herself. Otherwise, Galleria dell'Accademia shows the incredible history of Venice through master paintings.

Time is winding down, and so should you. Walk to the end of Dorsoduro to Santa Maria della Salute, a beautiful Baroque church on the water's edge. This is your picture-perfect moment.

Remember your train is at 7 p.m., and you may very well be on the other side of Venice. You could take a water taxi for €50+ back to the station, but why not plan to start walking (or take the vaporetto) at 6? Hopefully, you'll be at Venezia Santa Lucia in time.

If not, you have another day in Venice.

Keep Exploring Rome and Venice

See all our favorites in Fathom's Guide to Rome and Venice — and for a concierge in your pocket, download our three-day itineraries for Rome and Venice . Then don't miss Erica's story about Al Moro , one of her favorite restaurants in Rome, and her Roman walking tour for know-it-alls of all ages .

We make every effort to ensure the information in our articles is accurate at the time of publication. But the world moves fast, and even we double-check important details before hitting the road.

Every Steph

6 BEST Venice Tours from Rome (selected by an Italian)

By: Author Stefania Guglielmi

Posted on Last updated: April 9, 2024

Categories Europe , Italy

Eager to plan a Venice day trip from Rome, but unsure if it’s possible? Let me tell you: it is! In this post, you’ll find the most epic Venice tours from Rome to help you plan an unforgettable day trip to the city of canals. 

Venice needs to be on your Italy itinerary . Period. It can be crowded, smelly, and very touristy… but it’s also an incredibly unique destination.

Its mesmerizing canals crossed by arched bridges, the romantic gondolas, and the awe-striking Gothic architecture are a sight to behold.

This city is built across more than 100 islands , after all, and it has much to offer its visitors. What if your trip is too short to make it to Venice, though, but you’ll be spending time in Rome? Can you even visit Venice from Rome?

St. Mark's Campanile in St. Mark's square in Venice, Italy.

I’ll say yes, YOU CAN , although it’s not ideal. I absolutely recommend spending 2 or 3 days in Venice . However, that’s not always possible. If you’re set on visiting on a day trip from Rome, I ABSOLUTELY recommend joining a tour, so you ensure that you’ll make the most of your limited time there. 

The floating city, after all, is located 326 miles (525km) north of Rome, and the train ride takes around 4.5 hours .

With an organized excursion, all transfers will be arranged for you , along with a guided tour of the city or free time to explore at your leisure.

Otherwise, you can spend half your days figuring out the frustrating public transportation system . This would leave you with very little time to actually enjoy what you came for.

I’m Italian, born and raised in Bologna, and even for me figuring logistics out can be complicated . Especially when I’m trying to cram as much as possible into a day trip!

Below you’ll find my selection of the best Venice tours from Rome , suitable for solo travelers, couples, and even big groups. Read on! 

I generally use Viator and Get Your Guide to book tours around the world. I especially recommend them for their great cancellation policy. If your plans change, you can cancel most activities up to 24 hours in advance and get a full refund. 

In a rush? These are the top tours

OUR PICK: The BEST Venice Tour from Rome 

This Day Trip from Rome to Venice by High-Speed Train is the most thorough tour. It offers roundtrip transfers in the most efficient means of transportation: the high-speed train. 

Once in Venice, you’ll board a Vaporetto (waterbus) to glide along the canals, getting your first glimpse of this mesmerizing city. Then it’s time for your guided tour, which will take you around the major attractions as you learn about their history and significance.

After the introduction to the floating city, you’ll be released to wander on your own. Make the most of your free time to visit other lesser-known areas, or sample local bites.

Shortly before the ride back to Rome, you’ll meet your guide again for a delicious aperitivo with the group, capping off a wonderful day. It’s one of the best day tours from Rome to Venice, and our undisputable top pick.

Why is this the best tour? It offers the perfect balance between a guided tour and free time. Besides, a Vaporetto ride along the waterways is included, and you’ll be treated to a traditional Venetian apritivo to end your day.

Read what the reviews say:

“ This trip was exceptional from start to finish! Jacob, our tour guide was excellent! The tour itself was incredible, Venice is absolutely stunning and this trip allowed us the chance to see and do everything! I cannot recommend this day trip more… simply 5 stars! It was a day to remember!! Thank you!” Amanda – Read more reviews

This Rome to Venice tour includes : Roundtrip train tickets, a guided tour of Venice, a Vaporetto ride, and an aperitivo. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Private Tours To Venice from Rome

▶️ The Venice from Rome: Full Day Tour by fast train, Private Group accommodates groups of up to 12.

You’ll make your way to St. Mark’s Square, the beating heart of Venice. Accompanied by a guide, explore the magnificent attractions of the city, including the Basilica, the Grand Canal, and Doge’s Palace. 

A waterbus ticket is included in the tour, so you can go on a boat ride around the islands before catching the train back to Rome. An assistant will be available throughout the day, and you’ll also have an emergency number for any need that may arise. 

This tour from Rome to Venice includes : Train tickets, waterbus, and an assistant. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ This Venice from Rome: Private Day Trip by train with Islands Tour is a private experience catered to you and your group of friends. It includes hotel pick-up and tickets for the high-speed train, ensuring you get to Venice promptly and with plenty of time to enjoy. 

Upon arrival you’ll hop on a private taxi boat to explore the Venetian lagoon, touring around the beautiful islands that surround it. You’ll then have free time to visit Venice’s top sights, eat a gelato, and wander leisurely along the narrow streets. 

This tour includes : Hotel pick-up and drop-off, train tickets, a private boat tour, and a guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Multi-Day Tours from Rome to Venice

▶️ The Best of Italy: 5-Day Escorted Tour from Rome is a super-comprehensive adventure! You’ll be whisked away from Rome to travel around 9 different cities, including the iconic Venice.

Your friendly guide will lead the way around Assisi, Siena, Florence, Pisa, Bologna, Padova, Venice, and Montepulciano. You’ll visit the major attractions of each, relish traditional food and wines, and delve into their fascinating history.

Four hotel nights with breakfast, 2 lunches, and 1 dinner, along with a Venetian aperitivo, are included. You’ll return to Rome at the end of the fifth day.

This tour includes : Transportation, a guide, four hotel nights, breakfast, 2 lunches, 1 dinner, and a Spritz with Cicchetti. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ A shorter alternative is the Florence and Venice from Rome: 2 Day Tour by Train, Small Group . You’ll hop on a train and make your way to Venice, the city of canals.

Enjoy a comprehensive walking tour along its waterways and narrow alleys. Along the way, your guide will provide fascinating facts about the city’s history. Pass by the most important attractions, including Basilica di San Marco, Doge’s Palace, and the Bridge of Sighs.

In the afternoon, travel to Florence, where you’ll spend the night. The following day, wander around the birthplace of Renaissance. Explore the city with a guide, visit Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia Gallery, and check out other major landmarks.

Finally, take the fast train back to Rome.

This tour includes : Hotel transfers, a guide, accommodation, breakfast, and tickets to the Accademia Gallery. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ The 6-Day Venice, Garda & Northern Italy Small-Group Tour from Rome promises a week of endless enjoyment. You’ll tour the most artistic cities of the region, savor local cuisine, and witness incredible landscapes.

Spend the first day in Bologna, and opt for an additional trip to Ravenna on the second day. Then, head for a visit to Gorino, Este, and Padua, home to Italy’s second-oldest university.

On the fourth day, get lost in the tiny alleys, bridges, and waterways of Venice. You’ll have a walking tour with your guide, and then free time to enjoy at your leisure.

Go wine tasting at the foothills of the Dolomites, visit the enchanting Verona, and be in awe of Lake Garda’s beauty.

This tour includes : All transfers, a guide, accommodation for 5 nights, and daily breakfast. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Stefania Guglielmi

Stefania Guglielmi is the founder of Every Steph. Originally from Bologna, Italy, she's been traveling full-time since 2016 and has visited over 50 countries across 6 continents. She believes sustainable travel and luxury travel can go hand in hand and has been advocating for responsible tourism since 2014. Stefania's advice and travel experiences have been featured in important publications such as Business Insider, Refinery29, and Yahoo Money.

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Venice in 1 Day from Rome by the High-Speed Train

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  • About this activity

Venice in 1 Day from Rome by High-Speed Train

  • Free cancellation available
  • Mobile voucher
  • Instant confirmation
  • Full day to while away at your leisure in romantic Venice
  • Quick & comfortable ride on a modern, high-speed train
  • Public transportation pass to zip around Venice like a local
  • Aperitivo Veneziano (Spritz and crostino slices)
  • Free time to stroll, dine & shop among Venice's canals

Activity and redemption location map

Activity location

  • Venice, Veneto, Italy

Meeting/Redemption Point

  • 46 Via Marsala
  • 00185, Roma, Lazio, Italy
  • Tue, Apr 30 -
  • Wed, May 1 -
  • Thu, May 2 $296
  • Fri, May 3 -
  • Sat, May 4 $296
  • Sun, May 5 -
  • Mon, May 6 $296
  • Tue, May 7 -
  • Wed, May 8 -
  • Thu, May 9 $296
  • Fri, May 10 -
  • Sat, May 11 $296
  • Sun, May 12 -
  • Mon, May 13 $296
  • Tue, May 14 -

Tour with Tour Escort

  • Activity duration is 15 hours 15h 15h

This is a self-guided tour with Spanish and English -speaker tour escort

What's included, what's not

  • What's included What's included Roundtrip ticket between Venice and Rome via high-speed train
  • What's included What's included Aperitivo Veneziano (Spritz and crostino slices of toasted bread with different toppings)
  • What's included What's included Waterbus ticket one way trip
  • What's included What's included Transportation from the meeting point to the train station in Rome
  • What's excluded What's excluded Guide in Venice

Know before you book

  • Children 2 and younger are complimentary.
  • This activity is not wheelchair accessible.
  • This activity is not guided; however, there will be a tour assistant available during the whole day in Venice.
  • This tour ends at Rome's Termini station; transportation back to your hotel or to the initial meeting point is not included.
  • The train departs from Rome's Termini station at 07:35 AM, and departs Venice's Santa Lucia station at approximately 6:25 PM, arriving back in Rome at 10:10 PM. Exact train schedules may vary slightly; you will receive confirmation of your exact train schedule after booking
  • Check-in is 15 minutes prior to the booked tour start time.

What you can expect

Fancy a day trip to Venice’s water canals, sunsets, and multi-colored buildings

Set off with us on this day trip from Rome and reach Europe’s most romantic city in just a few hours by high-speed train

Your tour leader will be with you all the way from Termini train station, escorting you to the platform and on board, explaining the highlights of Venice and handing you your one-run ticket for Venice’s waterbus transportation.

After reaching Venice in little more than 3 hours, you will enjoy your one-ride ticket for the Venetian typical public transport, the waterbus, or vaporetto . It will be a fantastic opportunity to get a first glimpse of this magical city and its breathtaking views.

Get to St. Mark’s Square, the heart and soul of Venice’s historical centre: from the waterfront, turn left and breathe in the magnificence of the western façade of St. Mark's Basilica.

Did you know that Venice is composed of 118 islands that dot its lagoon, but also more than 400 bridges that cross its canals

From St. Mark's Square, take the opportunity to go shopping or to sip a good Italian coffee in one of the historic venues in the center, to get lost in this insanely romantic alleys labyrinth.

You definitely cannot miss the Bridge of Sighs ( Ponte dei Sospiri ), among the city's most beloved locations and a source of highly popular Instagram shots

On the way back to the railway station, you will find your tour leader there, to have a fantastic aperitivo , or cicchetto , as the locals call it: a mix of small savory side dishes typically served in the so-called bàcari and accompanied by the famous Venetian Spritz .

What better way to relax and recharge your batteries before heading back towards the Eternal City

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11 best Venice day trips

Last updated on April 8th, 2024.

When I think about taking a day trip from Venice, my first thoughts wouldn’t immediately be Florence or Rome.

But, do a quick search online and some posts will suggest otherwise. 

As a local living in Vicenza, northern Italy (Veneto), I’ve a good understanding of journey times between these places. While the thought of hopping between Venice and Florence sounds appealing, a day trip will be a tight squeeze.

To give you an idea of timings, a day trip to Venice from Rome takes around 5.5 hours by car. This doesn’t factor in traffic, roadworks or making stops on the highway. Traveling from Venice to Rome by train, the time’s slightly reduced at 3hr and 49min.

Choosing a realistic itinerary is one of the fundamental pieces of advice I outline in planning a trip to Italy . Which is why, in this post, I’ll be listing 11 best Venice day trips that are easily doable.

Ideal material for your Italy bucket list , you may need to return to Venice to see them all.

Doge Palace Venice - skip the line tours in Italy

Definition of a day trip

For clarification, I define a day trip as a journey that takes you from your (home) base to the destination, and then home again.

It’s for this reason why I don’t consider Rome or Florence as doable day trips from Venice. You’ll spend more time traveling there than the time you could be spending visiting the city’s sights.

What’s more, each of these Italian metropolis’ deserve more attention than half a day.

Instead, the following list are places that are in, or near to, Venice and won’t leave you feeling completely drained. Perfect for slow travel and for those that prefer visiting lesser known places, grab a pen and start planning.

Canal in Venice with houses on either side - Venice in winter

Venice: the basics

For first-time visitors to Venice, two full days is a good starting point to see the main sights.

Book any tickets for attractions in advance so you can skip any long lines and save time — and money. It’s one of several important things to know before visiting Venice .

If you can afford more time, I suggest taking it so you can enjoy Venice at a slower pace.

Walking around Venice in 1 day is probably doable, but I wouldn’t recommend it. The city has so much to see and do that it’s smarter to split your itinerary into 2 days.

Murano, Burano and Torcello

Once you’ve sufficiently explored the best sights in Venice, it’s time to see what else the island has to offer.

An easy water bus (vaporetto) , or water taxi ride away are the islands of Murano, Burano and Torcello. Three islands may sound like a lot to see in 1 day, but as our itinerary shows, it’s doable.

Of the 3 islands, Murano is the largest, measuring 1,134 acres (459 hectares). The island’s most known for its glass industry, a tradition that dates over 1,000 years. A budget-friendly fact about Murano is that many of the shops and factories offer free glass-making demonstrations.

A direct vaporetto from Piazzale Roma to Murano takes around 40 minutes. It’s a faster choice than taking a vaporetto that stops at every stop along the Grand Canal.

One of the best Venice day trips, Murano offers a taste of Venetian life without the masses of tourists.

On to Burano

A huge smile instantly appears on my face when I write about Burano. The island of color is one of my favorite day trips in Venice and it never disappoints.

Burano’s small size means you can complete a leisurely visit within 1.5 hours. This doesn’t factor in time to eat at a restaurant.

Burano colorful houses - day trip from Venice

Aside from the colorful houses ( case colorate ), you can list Burano’s other attractions on one hand. They include the leaning tower of Burano (a slightly distorted bell tower) and the Chiesa Parrocchiale di San Martino Vescovo .

The best thing about all of these attractions is that they’re 100% free. A cheap place to visit from Venice, Burano is a win-win for all types of travelers.

If visiting in summer, come as early as possible to avoid the crowds and the heat.

Chiesa Parrocchiale di San Martino Vescovo (St Martin’s Parish Church), Piazza Baldassarre Galuppi, 20

Last stop: Torcello

Torcello is the quietest, and smallest, island of the 3, making any time of the day good to visit.

Unlike Murano and Burano, Torcello isn’t overtly residential. You’ll find a few hotels and B&Bs on the island but it’s relatively quiet.

It’s impossible to get lost in Torcello. The path from the vaporetto stop runs alongside the canal leading to the island’s attractions and back again.

Lisa Rivera on Ponte di Diavolo

After passing by the iconic Ponte di Diavolo (Devil’s Bridge), you’ll reach an area of historic importance.

First is the Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta. Dating to the 7th century, the church houses the earliest mosaics in Venice. Opposite the basilica are several stone structures, one of which is il Trono di Attila. Sources say it belonged to Attila the Hun while others dispute this claim.

A truly relaxing island in Venice, Torcello makes a good addition to your Venice day trips list.

Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta (St. Mary’s Basilica), Via isola di, Campiello Lazzari Trono di Attila (Attila’s Throne), Via Fondamenta

Hotel recommendations for Murano, Burano and Torcello

Escape the noise of the main island of Venice and consider basing your stay at one of the following places.

  • Murano — Murano Palace
  • Burano — Casa Burano
  • Torcello — Locanda Cipriani

Lido di Venezia

One of the last vaporetto stops is the Lido of Venice (Lido di Venezia) . The island’s most famous for hosting the Venice Film Festival every September, but this isn’t its only draw.

What separates Lido di Venezia from other islands in Venice are its beaches. Its most popular, and largest, is the Spiaggia Blue Moon (Blue Moon Beach). A coastline that overlooks the Adriatic Sea, it’s where locals, and tourists, come to enjoy sandy shores and warm waters.

Lisa at Spiaggia Blue Moon - things to do in lido Venice

At the other end of the lido is the slightly quieter Spiaggia degli Alberoni . Like Blue Moon, it’s popular with visitors and ideal if you’re looking for a relaxing break in Venice.

A vaporetto from Piazzale Roma to Lido di Venezia (Lido Santa Maria Elisabetta) takes around 1 hour.

It may sound long, but the ride is so scenic and relaxing that the time will whizz by.

The city they call the ‘mini Venice’ embodies all the elements for one of the best Venice day trips. A destination reachable from Venice by car or train in around 36 minutes, Treviso often gets overlooked.

The city usually gets recognized as being one of the other airports to reach Venice and not much more. But, with a historic center filled with palazzos, piazzas and cute canal spots, you’ll be sad you missed out.

We ticked off all the main attractions during our 1 day in Treviso , including its grand Duomo and Seafood Island.

A charming city within easy reach of Venice, by car or train, Treviso will not disappoint.

Treviso canal - best Venice day trips

Hotel recommendations for Treviso

Choose to spend the night, or two, in Treviso at one of my top picks in the city.

  • Palazzina300 — located in the central Piazza dei Signori
  • Locanda Ponte Dante — central location, spacious rooms and elegant furnishings

Distance from Venice: 24mi/38km 36min*

After Treviso, the next closest city to Venice is Padua ( Padova ) with a journey time of around 38 minutes.

A city steeped in history, Padua is also home to one of Italy’s oldest universities. But, unlike traditional university towns, it’s not immediately obvious.

Some of the university’s campus’ are historic buildings, like Palazzo Bo, which is located in the center. Unless you see groups of students heading to class or congregating outside, you’d be none the wiser.

The city’s most recognizable landmark is the eye-catching Palazzo della Ragione . The medieval building was once the seat of government in Padua, but today runs as a museum and exhibition space.

My absolute favorite area of the palazzo is located beneath the building’s grand portico. It’s here where you’ll find a variety of food shops, market stalls, bars and cafes. It’s a good spot to take a refreshment break on your day trip in Padua.

Prato della Valle in Padua - best Venice day trips

Outside Padua city center

While Padua’s historic center has plenty to occupy a day trip, it’s also worth noting the attractions located just outside.

The first that comes to mind is the striking Prato della Valle . An elliptical square island surrounded by water, the landmark is overlooked by over 70 statues of famous historical figures. The largest square in Italy at 90,000sqm, it’s one you can’t miss on your day trip from Venice.

A short distance from the Prato della Valle is the Orto botanico dell’Università degli Studi di Padova . Founded by Benedictine monks, it’s the oldest academic botanical garden in the world, containing more than 3,500 species.

Orto botanico dell’Università degli Studi di Padova (Botanical Garden of the University of Padova, Via Orto Botanico, 15

Distance from Venice: 24mi/38km 38min*

Map of Italy

My home city in the north , I’m probably a little biased as to why you should visit Vicenza. The province is home not just to towns like Montecchio Maggiore, but also to a jaw-dropping historic center.

One of Vicenza’s most famous residents was Andrea Palladio. Padova born, but Vicenza lived, the architect designed some of the city’s most famous attractions .

At its heart is the magnificent Basilica Palladiana in Piazza dei Signori. The building was a former seat of government, but today is an exhibition and gallery space. Cast your eyes over the striking loggia — the covered upper level corridor — and the Venetian windows.

Ponte San Paolo in Vicenza, Italy

Palladio’s other notable works in Vicenza include:

  • Teatro Olimpico (Olympic Theater) — Piazza Matteotti, 11
  • Palazzo Chiericati (Chiericati Palace) — Piazza Matteotti, 37/39
  • Villa Rotonda del Palladio (Palladio’s Round Villa) — Via della Rotonda, 45

Just 45 minutes by car, Vicenza is really one of the most doable, and best, Venice day trips. If you’re looking for day trips from Venice by train, Vicenza is just 32 minutes from Venezia Santa Lucia station.

Distance from Venice: 43mi/70km 45min*

Arquà Petrarca

It takes less than an hour from Venice to visit the small borgo of Arquà Petrarca . Surrounded by the picturesque Colli Euganei (Euganean Hills), it’s a little gem of a town that’s worth visiting.

Arquà Petrarca’s small size means that you’ll most likely be done within a few hours. Personally, I enjoy these kind of day trips as fewer attractions means more time to explore at a slower pace.

Al fresco dining - where to eat in Arqua Petrarca

Arquà Petrarca’s most notable attraction is Casa del Petrarca. Named after the Tuscan-born poet and scholar, Francesco Petrarca, he lived in the village until his death.

The building dates to the 13th century and runs as a museum that’s open to the public. A sight for all the senses, and no long lines to get in, Casa del Petrarca is a must see.

Casa del Petrarca (Petrarca House), Via Valleselle 4

A private palazzo

As you continue to explore the streets of Arquà Petrarca, you’ll eventually come across the imposing Palazzo Contarini. The 15th century building comes as an unexpected surprise — but a welcome one.

Unfortunately, being privately owned it’s not open to the public. However, this doesn’t stop you from getting closer for a better look.

Distance from Venice: 42mi/67.9km 55min*

A visit to the Italian city of romance is always a good idea. And, with a journey time of 1hr 4mins (by car), Verona, for me, is one of the best Venice day trips.

The city’s also one of the places close to Venice by train, with just 4 stops between the two.

Verona restaurants - best Venice day trips

What makes Verona a great choice is that you can see all of the sights within a day, or less. The city’s historic center is quite small, and its main attractions are within close walking distance. Some of the most notable include:

  • Arena di Verona (Verona Arena)
  • Casa di Giulietta (Juliet’s House) — Via Cappello, 23
  • Museo di Castelvecchio (Castelvecchio Museum) — Corso Castelvecchio, 2
  • Teatro Filharmonico (Philharmonic Theater) — Via Roma, 3
  • Porta Borsari (Borsari Door) — Corso Porta Borsari, 57A
  • Giardino Giusti (Giusti Garden) — Via Giardino Giusti, 2

Day trip from Verona

However, while Casa di Giulietta is one of Verona’s most famous spots, the real inspiration behind Shakespeare’s story lies elsewhere.

As mentioned above, the province of neighboring Vicenza is home to the small town of Montecchio Maggiore . Perched high on a hilltop, it’s where you’ll find the real castles of the Capulet and Montague families.  

View of Castello di Romeo - Montecchio Maggiore

Romeo’s surname in Italian, Montecchi, reflects the town’s credibility behind the claim.

What remains today of both castles are its stone structures. Juliet’s castle sits in the higher position, providing panoramic views of the Venetian countryside. An ideal day trip from Venice or Verona, Montecchio Maggiore is also 100% free to enter.  

Distance from Venice: 68mi/110km 1hr 4min*

The last few Venice day trips consist of smaller towns in Veneto .

Most of them are classified as ‘borghi’, which is an expansion of a city outside of its circuit of walls. You can find hundreds of them across Italy (like Montemerano in Tuscany ) each one with their own unique charm.

Just over an hour by car from Venice is the small town of Soave. Wine drinkers may recognize its name for its famous Soave Classico wine, the vineyards which surround the historic town.

Signs of Soave’s wine history are evident the second you walk through the castle walls doorway of Porta Aquila. Empty wine bottles hang from the ceiling forming a cool piece of art fit for any contemporary museum.

Soave wine bottles - day trip from Venice Italy

The castle at the top

While some come to Soave to enjoy the wine, others come to visit its castle. Like many Italian castles I’ve written about , Castello Scaligero di Soave sits at an elevated position.  

The way up, and back down, is paved with uneven stones, some of which can be slippery. As you near the top, the view opens up to glorious views of the vineyards and wider scenery.

The entrance to the castle sits at the side as opposed to the top of the stony steps. Like in the town of Cittadella, you can walk the length of the castle walls and enjoy the uninterrupted views.  

Castello Scaligero di Soave (Scaligeri Castle), Via Castello Scaligero, 12/14 Via Giulio Camuzzoni, 33

Distance from Venice: 60mi/97km 1hr 4min*

Within the province of Padova are two small cities that make an ideal 2-in-1-day trip from Venice. Montagnana is approximately 1hr 10min by car but you can also arrive by train.

A city center enclosed within the castle walls, visiting Montagnana is literally stepping into the past.

At its heart is the town’s Duomo, Santa Maria Assunta, a church that dates to the 15th century. Influenced by Renaissance and Gothic architectural styles, it’s an impressive structure for a small town.

Along with the remarkable walls, Montagnana also has a castle to its name. While many of the original features of Castello San Zeno are gone, signs of an internal moat and arches remain.

Duomo di Santa Maria Assunta Montagnana - Este Padova

A short 20-minute drive from Montagnana is the equally small town of Este. Where the aforementioned city center sits with the castle walls, Este’s is located outside.

To say that the castle walls in Este are impressive would be an understatement. Castello Carrarese dates to the 14th century and 12 of the 14 towers are still standing. The main palace building today houses the Atestino Museum.

Gardens Castello Cassarese Montagnana - Este Padova

Within the grounds is a Renaissance-style garden complete with stone statues surrounded by pretty foliage.

Castello Carrarese, Via G. Negri 9

Distance from Venice: 64mi/102km 1hr 10min* (Montagnana) 44mi/70.3km 57min* (Este)

My final choice for one of the best Venice day trips is the photogenic borgo of Asolo . It’s the furthest distance from Venice at 40mi (64km), or around 1hr 20mins by car but highly doable.  

One thing to note, is that for Asolo and Arquà Petrarca, arriving by car is the only viable option. Trying to arrive here by public transport would add to a longer, and more complicated, journey time.

Outside Freya Starks house - what is Asolo famous for

The historic borgo has a few famous literary links to its name. English poet, Robert Browning, and English writer and traveler Freya Stark, were inspired by Asolo. The latter loved the town so much, that she lived there in Villa Freya until her death.

Like Soave, the town’s main attraction, the Rocca di Asolo , is at the top. Unlike Soave, however, the way up is longer and more challenging.

La Rocca di Asolo - things to do in Asolo

There’s a small entrance fee to pay (€3 ($3.40/£2.50) at the time of our visit) but it’s completely worth it. On a clear and sunny day, it’s possible to see the Dolomites peaks and a tiny outline of Venice.

Asolo isn’t just one of the best Venice day trips, it’s also one of the prettiest borghi in Italy.

Distance from Venice:  39.8mi/64km 1hr 20min*

Best day trips from Venice, Italy — extra ideas

The following are also doable day trips from Venice, but will take a little longer than the aforementioned places.

  • Lake Garda (Sirmione) —154km/96m 1hr 54min*
  • Ravenna — 145km/90m 2hr 23min*

If you’re considering a Dolomites day trip from Venice, personally, I’d advise spending the night there. To give you an idea, the city of Bolzano in South Tyrol from Venice is around 3 hours by car. It is doable but only if you leave Venice early and avoid any traffic.

*approximate distance and journey time

What do you think of these day trips from Venice Italy? Which one would you most like to see? Let me know in the comments below.

Want to know what the best Venice day trips are? This post lists 10+ ideas of day trips from Venice Italy that are doable and realistic

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that I’ve recommended. Thank you for your support.

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Venice best day trips

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  • Good reasons to visit Venice in winter
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Welcome to my site. I'm Lisa, an Italy-based travel and lifestyle blogger behind Following the Rivera. Find out more about me and my story.

What are the best Venice day trips?

Treviso canal - best Venice day trips

1. Murano, Burano and Torcello 2. Lido of Venice 3. Treviso 4. Padova 5. Vicenza

What are the closest places to visit from Venice?

1. Murano, Burano and Torcello 2. Lido of Venice 3. Treviso 4. Padova 5. Jesolo

46 thoughts on “ 11 best Venice day trips ”

These are some of the spectacular day trips from Venice you have listed here and I would love to visit most of them.The colorful architecture of Burano led by zigzagging waterways. And the gothic and renaissance architecture reflected in the churches, gardens, town squares, castles and museums of Verona and Arqa petrarca and not to forget the unique wine bottle architecture of Suave. Venice is a beautiful place.

I’m glad you enjoyed the post 🙂 Venice has some great options and so varied too

Thank you for this detailed guide! I would totally go to Montagnana and Este, as a two in one day trip sounds amazing.

Both are great choices and really worth seeing from Venice 🙂

I love Venice as it is such a wonderful place and I can’t wait to go there, I missed visiting Torcello and Padua the last time so would want to see both these places on my next visit to Italy

I hope you come back and visit one day!

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UNESCO Jewels: Venice day trip from Rome

Rome Tours by Gray Line. Day Tours & things to do. > Tours > UNESCO Jewels: Venice day trip from Rome

Feefo Rating UNESCO Jewels: Venice day trip from Rome

No trip to Italy is complete without a visit to Venice, exploring the canals in one of the world’s most romantic cities

  • Enjoy the Italian landscapes as you travel on a high-speed train
  • Aperitivo Veneziano
  • Explore the grandeur of Piazza San Marco
  • Cruise the Grand Canal on a vaporetto water taxi
  • Return high-speed train ticket from Rome to Venice
  • Assistance during the whole day
  • Waterbus one way ticket
  • Aperitivo Veneziano (Spritz and crostino slices of toasted bread with different toppings)
  • Limited to 30 participants
  • Transportation to Meeting Point
  • Guide in Venice (tours are self-guided)

Please Note

The train timetable is subject to change. Cancellation policy: Free cancellation until 24 hours before your tour date. After that, a 100% penalty fee applies. No refunds for no-shows.

Restrictions

You can cancel a reservation for this tour up to 48 hours before the start date for free; we cannot refund you if you cancel after the deadline or if you do not show up.

When would you like to go?

Unavailable, please select:, options selected:, optional extras, price breakdown:.

Image with Rate from UNESCO Jewels: Venice day trip from Rome

Pickup Info

Start time: 7:30 AM. Meeting point: Via Marsala opposite Caffè Trombetta ( Via Marsala, 46/48 ) 30 minutes before the tour starts. Tour termination: Roma Termini Station. Gray Line - I Love Rome office: Via Cavour, 309 (6:30 AM – 6:30 PM 365 days) [email protected] 0039 06 474 2501 (from November to March Monday-Saturday 6:30 AM – 7:00 PM / Sunday 6:30 AM – 8:15 PM) From April to October 6:30 AM – 9:00 PM 0039 348 8112027 (Whatsapp only)

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From Rome: Day Trip to Venice

venice day trips from rome

Experience the unparalleled beauty and romance of Venice on a day trip from Rome. Board a high-speed train and immerse yourself in the magic of the city of canals, while also enjoying the convenience of a guided tour and plenty of free time to explore.

Your High-Speed Train Adventure Begins

Meet your tour leader at Rome’s Termini train station and embark on a comfortable journey to Venice aboard a high-speed train. Traveling at speeds of up to 300 km/h (186 mph), you’ll reach your destination in just a few hours, allowing you to maximize your time in this enchanting city.

Exploring Venice’s Iconic Landmarks

Upon arrival, receive a one-way pass for Venice’s waterbus transportation system. Board a Vaporetto (waterbus) with your guide and marvel at the city’s captivating landscape as you glide along its iconic canals. Your first stop is St. Mark’s Square, the heart of Venice, where you’ll be captivated by the stunning architecture of St. Mark’s Basilica.

Rome to Venice Day Trip

Rome to Venice Day Trip

Free Time to Discover the Magic of Venice

After visiting St. Mark’s Square, enjoy some free time to explore the city at your own pace. Wander through the labyrinth of narrow streets and romantic alleys, indulge in a leisurely gondola ride, or treat yourself to an authentic Italian coffee in a picturesque piazza.

Crossing the Bridge of Sighs

Rejoin your tour leader to cross the famous Bridge of Sighs (Ponte dei Sospiri), one of Venice’s most cherished and photogenic landmarks. The bridge connects the Doge’s Palace to the former prison, offering a unique perspective on the city’s history.

Before heading back to the train station, indulge in a quintessential Venetian experience: the aperitivo. Join your tour leader at a local bàcari, where you’ll sample an array of savory cicchetti (small side dishes) accompanied by a refreshing Venetian Spritz.

Insider Tips for Your Venice Day Trip

To make the most of your day trip to Venice, consider these insider tips that will enhance your experience:

  • St. Mark’s Basilica: While visiting St. Mark’s Square, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the interior of St. Mark’s Basilica. This stunning cathedral is adorned with intricate mosaics and houses precious relics. Keep in mind that there may be a dress code, so dress modestly to ensure entry.
  • Rialto Bridge: The Rialto Bridge is another must-see landmark in Venice. This iconic structure spans the Grand Canal and offers breathtaking views of the city. Be sure to have your camera ready to capture the moment.
  • Murano and Burano Islands: If you have extra time, consider visiting the nearby islands of Murano and Burano. Famous for their glassmaking and lacework, respectively, these islands provide a unique glimpse into Venetian craftsmanship and culture. You can reach them easily via waterbus.
  • Get Lost in the Alleys: One of the best ways to experience the charm of Venice is to let yourself get lost in its winding alleys and narrow streets. You’ll stumble upon hidden gems, picturesque squares, and quaint shops, allowing you to truly immerse yourself in the city’s atmosphere.

Return to Rome with Unforgettable Memories

As your day trip comes to an end, board the high-speed train back to Rome with your tour leader, reflecting on your magical Venetian adventure.

Don’t miss this unforgettable experience – book your Venice day trip from Rome by high-speed train today. With a knowledgeable tour leader, convenient transportation, and the freedom to explore Venice at your leisure, you’re sure to create memories that will last a lifetime.

  • Journey to Venice from Rome aboard a high-speed train
  • Explore iconic sights such as St. Mark’s Square and the Bridge of Sighs
  • Navigate the city using waterbus transportation with a one-way pass
  • Savor a traditional Venetian aperitif with your tour leader
  • Benefit from a tour leader’s assistance throughout the entire trip

Free cancellation up to 1 day before tour starts.

venice day trips from rome

from €426.00 EUR Duration: 12 Hours  Organized by: Romaetravel

from €14.00 EUR   Seller: Tiqets

APRIL SALE:   Book now and get   up to 60% off!

Rome to Venice Tours & Trips

Find adventures that start in Rome and then finish in Venice. Trips from Rome to Venice are most popular in September, with the most tours doing this route then.

71 Rome to Venice tour packages with 1,313 reviews

Classical Italy Tour

  • Christmas & New Year

Classical Italy

My son and I really enjoyed this tour. The activities, hotels and tour guides were great and we saw so much I. Just a few days. It was all very well organised.

Best of Italy Tour

  • In-depth Cultural

Best of Italy

A great trip thoroughly enjoyed by me and my wife. May thanks to Massimo Mabelia for his excellent leadership.

Discover Italy Tour

  • Coach / Bus

Discover Italy

I thought this tour was pretty good. There were plenty of stops to see and so many fun experiences. I only had a few problems with the tour overall. First, we were allowed to book optional excursions on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, after confirming they would be available. However, when we arrived, we were told those excursions were no longer possible, so we had to scramble to find something to fill those timeframes. When the tour is billed as 9 days, but there are no activities planned for the first and last day, it really is a bummer to hear that a day and a half of the seven other days were canceled.

Rome, Florence, Cinque Terre & Venice in 7 Days Tour

  • Train & Rail

Rome, Florence, Cinque Terre & Venice in 7 Days

It was a good trip all together. It covers a lot in a short span of time. The day trip to pisa and cinque terre was fun. Venice was a short day, basically exploring it by yourself. Also it would have been good if the group size were indicated at the beginning of the trip, As there were tours were i was the only one with the tour guide.
  • €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Mamma Mia! - 13 Days/12 Nights Tour

Mamma Mia! - 13 Days/12 Nights

The Mama Mia tour was well organised and I had a great time throughout. Any hitches due to weather was sorted out , my tour leaders Ginaluca and Elisabetta were fantastic and made the trip fun! Veronica from the team was extremely helpful with all my additional requests. I was a solo traveller but ended up making great friends on the trip. You are with the best with Italy on a budget tours.

Jewels of Italy (Summer, 7 Days) Tour

Jewels of Italy (Summer, 7 Days)

It was a great tour, with a wonderful and knowledgeable guide with a sense of humour, we were made to feel relaxed and to enjoy what we were going through. The only downside was the hotel in Florence, where there was a bad odour from the drains, the rooms were not comfortable and the quality of the food and breakfast was not up to standard. The other two hotels were great. But to summarise, I highly recommend this tour, we learnt plenty of things and all the activities were great.

Deluxe Italian Escape with picturesque Cinque Terre Tour

  • Sightseeing

Deluxe Italian Escape with picturesque Cinque Terre

We had a more custom version, which was made easy to plan and even better to experience. We got to see Venice, Rome and Vico Equense. From accommodations to transport to activities, all the details were covered. They were also available at all times to help with anything that came up. Great anniversary trip!

Ultimate Italy Tour

Ultimate Italy

This is a self-directed tour. The tour leader is there to make sure the transportation goes smoothly and to ensure the hotels are arranged. Besides a couple of group dinners, you are expected to make your own site-seeing arrangements. Communications from the tour operator, prior to the tour departure date, are sparse and you do not receive a lot of detailed scheduling Information. The tour leader was knowledgeable and very helpful.

Mamma Mia! Best of Italy Tour

Mamma Mia! Best of Italy

This tour was sooo good. Only problem was that it felt way too short. Every destination had its own charming/uniqie features. My personal favourites were Rome and Venice. Rome's rich history was definetly showing itself through the architectural structure of the city. On the other hand Venice felt unreal to me it was just so beatiful. Our guide Luca was very friendly he was knowledgable, thanks to him we learned a lot. I made a lot of great memories ...

Explore Italy - 4 Days Tour

Explore Italy - 4 Days

Excellent tour , our guide Nicole is excellent

The Marco Polo Tour

The Marco Polo

The tour was great and although we saw a lot in such a short time it would have been nice to have time to still shop at the markets in Florence. Overall a great experience.

Italian Concerto (11 Days) Tour

Italian Concerto (11 Days)

We booked expecting to get a four star experience and got a three star tour thanks solely to the excellent effort of our tour guide Antonella. The first two hotels were two star but the hotel in Florence and Venice met our expectations. We got totally ripped off on a "five star" dining excursion in Maori - terrible food and service all for $200 Canadian per couple. Our coach and driver were excellent. The tour itinerary met our expectations. After looking at the other reviews we realize September / early October are busy months and Trafalgar will sacrifice the quality of your hotel experience to book extra tours and make the extra dollar - they added an extra coach to our tour (doubled the number of tourists) for our tour dates.

Italian Tour Gondola Ride & Cinque Terre Visit Tour

Italian Tour Gondola Ride & Cinque Terre Visit

My 10-year-old son and I just came back from Rome-Florence-Venice and we thoroughly enjoyed it. It was our first time in Italy and first time using a tour. There were a couple of minor hiccups but our tour operators, Hannah, Barbara, Rose, Wendy, Alberto, Sam were extremely helpful and pleasant to work with. They were super responsive via WhatsApp. I thought our itinerary was very reasonable. We mostly travel independently but the travel logistics were all arranged for us. Thanks again for the top-notch customer service.

Easy Pace Italy (Classic, Summer, 10 Days) Tour

Easy Pace Italy (Classic, Summer, 10 Days)

This was my first tour to Italy and it was fantastic. Our tour guide Caroline took care of all of us with our needs. Our driver Carlo was great as well making sure the coach was always clean. This was like taking a history class, but with wine

Italy By High-Speed Train Tour

Italy By High-Speed Train

We really enjoyed our Italy by high speed train tour. The hotels were well located for walking to attractions, clean and the breakfasts were amazing! We had a bit of trouble finding the hotel in Florence but only because the same street changed names 3 times in 3 blocks! The trains were comfortable and on time. Pack lightly because no matter where your hotel is in Venice you will be dragging your suitcase up and down stairs.
  • €50 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

What people love about Rome to Venice Tours

I have a good experience and Gaby our tour guide is awesome. She is accommodating, very helpful of the needs of the travelers.
mecol was great. went above and beyond
It was overall a great trip!
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A journey from Rome to Venice to discover the Floating City

Things to do in Rome Day Trips from Rome Rome to Venice

Discover The Magic Of Venice

Venice, known as the Floating City, is a place of extraordinary beauty and romance. Built on a lagoon, this unique destination captivates visitors with its picturesque canals, magnificent palaces, and charming narrow streets. As you explore Venice, you'll be transported to a world unlike any other, where gondolas glide gracefully and timeless architecture surrounds you.

Unmissable Attractions In Venice

Hop aboard a vaporetto (water bus) and embark on a scenic journey along the Grand Canal. Marvel at the beautiful palaces lining the canal, such as Ca' d'Oro and Palazzo Dario, while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of this iconic waterway.

Cross the famous Rialto Bridge, one of the most recognizable landmarks in Venice. Explore the bustling Rialto Market nearby, where you can find an array of fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies.

Step into history at the magnificent Doge's Palace. Wander through opulent halls, admire stunning artworks, and walk across the Bridge of Sighs, which connects the palace to the New Prison.

venice day trips from rome

Begin your Venice adventure in the heart of the city at St. Mark's Square. Admire the stunning St. Mark's Basilica, with its intricate mosaics and elegant Byzantine architecture. Don't forget to climb the Campanile for a breathtaking panoramic view of Venice!

Insider Tips For Exploring Venice

Get lost in the streets.

Venice is a city meant for wandering. Allow yourself to get lost in the labyrinth of narrow streets and hidden squares. You never know what hidden gems you might stumble upon.

Experience a Gondola Ride

Treat yourself to a quintessential Venetian experience by taking a gondola ride through the canals. Glide beneath charming bridges and let the gondolier serenade you with traditional songs.

Try Cicchetti

Sample the local cuisine by indulging in cicchetti, small tapas-style dishes served in bacari (wine bars). Pair these delightful bites with a glass of local wine for an authentic culinary experience.

Where To Shop In Venice

Venice offers a variety of shopping opportunities, from high-end fashion boutiques to traditional artisans. Here are a few shopping destinations worth exploring:

venice day trips from rome

Dive into the vibrant atmosphere of the Rialto Market, where you'll find an array of fresh produce, local seafood, and Venetian specialties. This is the perfect place to pick up ingredients for a picnic or indulge in some food souvenirs.

Visit the island of Murano, famous for its exquisite glasswork. Explore the glass factories, watch master artisans at work, and bring home a beautiful piece of Murano glass as a unique memento.

Indulge In Culinary Delights

Venice is a paradise for food lovers, offering a wide range of delectable dishes and culinary traditions. Here are a few eateries you shouldn't miss:

venice day trips from rome

Experience traditional Venetian cuisine at a cozy trattoria. Indulge in seafood risotto, sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines), and tiramisu, all prepared with fresh local ingredients.

venice day trips from rome

Visit a bacaro, a typical Venetian wine bar, and enjoy a cicchetti crawl. Savor small bites like baccalà mantecato (creamed cod), polpette (meatballs), and delicious crostini paired with regional wines.

Getting From Rome To Venice

Traveling from Rome to Venice is convenient and offers various transportation options:

By Train: The high-speed train is the fastest and most popular way to travel between Rome and Venice. It takes approximately 3 to 4 hours, providing comfort and stunning views along the way.

By Plane: If you prefer a quicker option, you can take a short domestic flight from Rome to Venice. Flights are available from both Rome's Fiumicino Airport and Ciampino Airport.

BONUS READ: Hidden Gems And Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

While Venice is known for its iconic landmarks, there are also hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path experiences that await adventurous travelers. Venture beyond the well-trodden paths and discover the lesser-known side of Venice. Here are a few recommendations to add an extra touch of magic to your journey:

quinta de regaleira

Escape the crowds and set off on an island-hopping adventure in the Venetian Lagoon. Explore the picturesque islands of Burano, Murano, and Torcello, each with its own unique charm. Admire the vibrant, colorful houses of Burano, witness the artistry of Murano's glassblowers, and wander through the ancient ruins of Torcello. These islands offer a tranquil respite and a chance to delve deeper into the Venetian archipelago.

quinta de regaleira

Step into a whimsical world of books at Libreria Acqua Alta. This unique bookstore is a paradise for bibliophiles. Lose yourself among the towering stacks of books, climb a staircase made of old encyclopedias, and take a seat on a gondola filled with books. With its cozy nooks and charming atmosphere, Libreria Acqua Alta is a literary gem waiting to be discovered.

quinta de regaleira

Cannaregio is a neighborhood that offers an authentic taste of Venetian life. Away from the tourist crowds, explore the narrow streets and stumble upon traditional bacari (wine bars) where locals gather. Indulge in cicchetti, the Venetian version of tapas, paired with regional wines. Join the locals in lively conversations and experience the true essence of Venetian hospitality.

quinta de regaleira

While St. Mark's Basilica draws large crowds, venture to San Pietro di Castello for a quieter spiritual experience. This lesser-known basilica, tucked away in the Castello district, showcases beautiful Byzantine mosaics and stunning artworks. Enjoy the serene ambiance and take a moment to reflect in this hidden gem of Venetian architecture.

quinta de regaleira

For breathtaking panoramic views of Venice, head to the island of San Giorgio Maggiore. Take a short vaporetto ride and ascend the bell tower of the San Giorgio Maggiore Church. From the top, you'll be rewarded with a mesmerizing vista of Venice's rooftops, canals, and the distant Adriatic Sea. The golden hues of the setting sun cast a magical glow, making this the perfect spot to capture unforgettable memories.

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Shaili Contractor

With a passport full of tales from around 30 countries, I love exploring each new culture I come across. A seasoned writer and editor with a deep love for travel, I can't resist the allure of Netherlands, Italy, Spain, Turkey, and Indonesia - my favorites so far! I still have to take that trip to Japan, as I'm a HUGE Studio Ghibli fan, and love all sorts of pop culture! I also love history and am obsessed with anything that's connected to WW II. I want to visit Poland soon, just for this reason. Traveling has been a big part of my life for as long as I can remember. I grew up in Bahrain during the Gulf War, and since then, I've moved to several different countries, exploring them as I go. I love airplane food, I enjoy airports more than one should and I love the journey as much as the destination. I write about history and culture, shopping, handy tips, city guides, my own travel experiences and so much more about places visited and less visited in the world. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-timer, I'm here to help you plan your next adventure and make the most of your travels.

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12 incredible day trips from Venice

Julia Buckley

May 15, 2023 • 16 min read

venice day trips from rome

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.

View of the Piazza dei Signori, the square and the Loggia del Capitaniato in Vicenza

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.

A view of canal Vena at dusk in Chioggia with colorful buildings along each side

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.

A detailed facade of an old cathedral

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.

A shop window brimming with food in Bologna, Italy

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.

Rolling hills with trees in various shades of yellow, red, orange and green

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.

Pedestrians walk along Barberia street, near Signori Square, in Treviso

12. Visit Venice’s inland empire at Treviso

Travel time: 31 minutes by train

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

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

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

This article was first published March 2019 and updated May 2023

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2-Days Venice trip from Rome - private tour

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  • Professional guide
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Transport by train
  • Hotel in Venice
  • Venice visitor fee
  • Entry/Admission - Venice
  • Food and drinks
  • P.za della Repubblica, 48, 00184 Roma RM, Italy Meeting point is in front of Palazzo Naiadi
  • Pickup is included for all accommodation within Aurelian Walls. If your hotel is not in the list send us an email with your hotel /B&B/accomodation in Rome, we will let you know if the pick up is included.
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Infant seats available
  • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
  • Most travelers can participate
  • Please provide your accommodation’s information at the time of booking (name, address)
  • A minimum of 2 travelers per booking is required
  • Child seats available on request
  • This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
  • If you cancel at least 7 days in advance of the scheduled departure, there is no cancellation fee.
  • If you cancel between 3 and 6 day(s) in advance of the scheduled departure, there is a 50 percent cancellation fee.
  • If you cancel within 2 days of the scheduled departure, there is a 100 percent cancellation fee.
  • Piazza San Marco
  • Scala Contarini del Bovolo
  • Ponte di Rialto
  • Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute
  • Ponte dell'Accademia

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venice day trips from rome

  • Tour61203044918 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great family trip history lesson for the kids Went there on a day tour from Rome. I love Roman history and enjoyed this trip a lot. Get a local guide at Pompeii - it’s worth the money! Bring lots of water and sun protection. Positano is beautiful but crowded with tourists. The trip from Rome is long - set your expectations accordingly. Read more Written April 18, 2024
  • CasascoF 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Beautiful day beautiful day, very comfortable journey, nice and friendly driver, the Pompeii guide was very good. Absolutely a must-do tour Read more Written April 4, 2024
  • Cosmopolitan225533 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Efficient tour The tour was great. Our tour guide was so knowledgeable and friendly. Florence was beautiful. Unfortunately not much time was given to us to view Pisa. We did return to Rome at a decent hour. Read more Written March 31, 2024
  • FlamyPos 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Beautiful tour beautiful tour, nice and friendly driver, we had time to see many things. beautiful photos taken on the Amalfi coast. Recommend Read more Written March 27, 2024
  • K5327JMmichelea 0 contributions 2.0 of 5 bubbles Strong reservations. THE DIRECTIONS IN THE EMAIL ARE NOT THE DIRECTIONS OF THE DAY!!! While our guide was very pleasant and we enjoyed him. We were late meeting him and missed the gondola ride- so we had to pay for that all over again. We followed the meeting place directions in the email but the texted meeting place was over 30 minutes away. No one indicated in the text message that the meeting place was different. Additionally, the new meeting place required us to navigate through all of Venice without ever having been there before. With the crowds and the complexity of the streets, this was unrealistic. Additionally, the GPS signal is limited on the streets. Read more Written March 16, 2024
  • GRS_INV 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great airport transfer option Driver turned up on time, top end car well presented, good journey to the airport. Driver was top class. Would recommend / use this service again. Read more Written March 15, 2024
  • MarcieE_11 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A visit to Spello is rewarding The town of Spello has much to offer, unbelievable views, great restaurants, the Baglioni Chapel and truly amazing Roman mosaics. We made it a day trip from Perugia. A visit to Spello is not to be missed. Read more Written November 20, 2023
  • vivetm2017 0 contributions 2.0 of 5 bubbles Do your homework on which company you take Be careful which tour company you go with. We wanted a more personal and relaxed experience so we opted to go with the small group. That was a mistake. The vehicle fits six comfortably. We had 9 people crammed in for a 12 hour tour. We were supposed to have an English speaking driver. While he understood some English, he was far from conversant. I sat next to him and saw the tire indicator light on. When I asked him about that (we were going down a steep coastline) he said his boss said not to worry until the yellow light turned red. He took personal calls while driving and spoke loudly while gesturing. I had to keep looking at the steering wheel in case I had to grab it. Our lunch was out of the way and in a scenic place. However it consisted of a very average plate of pasta with no protien or vegetables. The guide that we had for the Pompeii tour was excellent. He was knowlegeable and funny and was the best part of the trip. On the way back the owner of the company contacted the driver to take another trip the next day. I learned that the driver lived an hour away from the starting location, had to get the vehicle, do the trip, clean the vehicle afterwards, then drive home. That makes for a very long day. He decided not to take another trip the following day, but it was clear that this is purely a money making proposition and the owner had little consideration for comfort, quality or safety. We contacted the company afterwards with no response. We contacted Viator which was much more responsive and refunded some of our cost which we appreciated. Read more Written November 9, 2023
  • michellesP2792WF 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles Disappointing Walking Tour The tour cost more than we expected as it was advertised in USD and we didn’t realise this until the payment was processed (we booked the tour in Rome). It was listed as a 4 hour tour, but was only 2 1/2 hours. Louisa was very knowledgeable but given that it was promoted as visiting sites from the angels and demons movie, there wasn’t as much linking of sites to the movie as we thought there would be. Read more Written October 21, 2023
  • LisaN3236 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great Staff My husband had an amazing expreince at Dalida's.Khlad, Mostafa and Amnya they were wonderful and provided an excellent expereince. Andre Namour Read more Written October 7, 2023
  • Relax05938969701 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Love the tour, the guide and the city Elisa was very well versed with the topic and the area. Would take another tour with her in a heartbeat. Well done. Read more Written October 4, 2023
  • joycewt 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Terrible Tour Of Venice I sent you a detailed note regarding this inadequate tour yesterday and also copied it to Romeatours The provider. We had one day to explore Venice and it was a total waste. Our guide was physically ill and did not have any information to share with us. The itinerary was what we wanted and it did not gain us entrance into any of the sights we walked by. Our guide was untrained and not licensed, a young student, newly arrived Venice who was not given the proper tools educationally to lead a tour. He was very nice, but inadequately prepared to give this tour! We are hoping we do not catch his flu/cold/possible Covid symptoms. What sad beginning. I would like a complete refund as our day was a total waste of precious time. Read more Written October 2, 2023
  • JDrisk 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles Didn’t happen I had reserved two spots for the trip to Pisa from Rome. The night before the trip, I received an email and text from the company letting me know that there weren’t enough people to make the trip so it was canceled. They did try to rebook us on a different day but unfortunately we couldn’t. I was glad they gave me some kind of notice of cancellation. Read more Written September 16, 2023
  • B5452ZLlizh 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Good guide A bit expensive for a few stops with few entrances to sites included... but the guide Luisa was knowledgeable and fun. Read more Written September 9, 2023
  • Jessica C 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Dissapointment tour Not happy. Starting with the pick up point and the miscommunication between the company and driver of where to pick up tourist at designated meeting point. everything in this tour was rushed, the car ride was long and the driving was very fast, to the point where I became car sick. We arrived to Pisa and were only given an hour to explore independently. It wasn’t enough time. After continued to Florence, there we met with a local tour guide and it was also rushed. we were only given 1 hour to tour with the guide, the highlights of the city. Then we had to meet with driver to drive back to Rome. We weren’t given free time, neither 2 hours as it stated to explore No time to either explore independently or time to eat. we only had a 10 min bathroom break going and another 10 break returning back at a rest stop by the highway ( we quickly used it to buy McDonald’s otherwise we would had been starving in an all day tour of about 10 hours and 8 of those hours consisted on sitting down driving on the road. It was nightmare of a trip. This trip was booked thru trip advisor and the Tour company goes under Romaetravel. So if you are interested research your tour operator as I don’t recommend this one. Read more Written September 7, 2023

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What to Know About Venice’s Fees for Day Trips

Venice is trying to mitigate overtourism with a small fee on busy days. City leaders hope it will make visitors more aware of the city’s fragility.

A man on a stepladder in front of a kiosk as another man spots him.

By Elisabetta Povoledo

Reporting from Rome

After years of debate , Venice on Thursday began charging day visitors five euros to visit its fragile historic center on peak days, making it the first city in the world to adopt such a measure to counter overtourism.

Critics question whether a nominal fee will put people off from visiting one of the world’s most desired destinations. But officials hope that it might encourage some to rethink their plans and decide to come on weekdays or in the off-season.

That might help mitigate the impact of the estimated 20 million visitors who descended last year on the city’s beleaguered residents, who number fewer than 50,000, according to municipal statistics . About half of those visitors came only for the day, city officials said. Overnight guests are exempt from the fee.

The spirit of the initiative, city officials have said, is to make people aware of the uniqueness — and fragility — of Venice. Overtourism is creating an economy solely based on tourism that risks killing the city by pushing its dwindling residents out, said Nicola Camatti, an economics professor and expert in tourism at Ca’ Foscari University of Venice.

When will Venice start charging?

The fee went into effect on Thursday, a holiday in Italy. For 2024, city officials have singled out 29 peak days when single-day travelers in Venice between 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. have to pay. The days run until mid-July and are mostly on national holidays and weekends. The access-fee website provides a list of the dates.

Who must pay?

While just about everyone visiting the city has to register to obtain a QR code, not all visitors have to pay the fee. Overnight guests at registered accommodations like hotels or Airbnbs are exempt, because they already pay a daily tourist tax, as are people who study or work in Venice and those visiting relatives. There are other exemptions as well.

Residents of Venice, those born there and minors under 14 are among those who do not have to register. But they must have documents that prove their status.

It is possible that different fees will apply next year on a sliding scale that will depend on how many people city officials expect on any one day. City officials said the fees could be as high as 10 euros per day.

How will the system work?

Before coming to Venice on peak days, visitors should use the website to register and get a QR code.

The code will be scanned at points where visitors enter, like the train station, the city parking lot, the airport and the sprawling waterfront along the San Marco basin where boats dock. The access points will have one line for tourists and another for residents and what officials call city users, who are coming into Venice for reasons other than sightseeing.

At least for now, those who do not register ahead of time can do so at some access points or on their cellphones, officials said. Assistants will be available.

Initially, the controls will be “very soft,” said Michele Zuin, the municipal councilor responsible for the city’s budget.

Speaking to reporters at the foreign press association in Rome this month, Mayor Luigi Brugnaro said the fee was not about cashing in on tourists. “The costs of the operation are higher than what we’re going to make,” he said.

Why is Venice doing this?

City officials hope to relieve some of the stress that tourists put on the city by encouraging them to come on less busy days. They also say that by knowing ahead of time how many visitors to expect, the city can better deploy services.

“We want to better manage the numbers of tourists and disincentivize mass tourism” that makes it difficult for residents and visitors to “live in this city,” Mr. Zuin said this month.

To track the flow of visitors, the city already monitors them via phone location data and surveillance cameras, a system some critics have likened to Big Brother .

Venice has also fallen under the scrutiny of the United Nations’ culture agency, UNESCO, whose experts are concerned that not enough is being done to protect the city. Last year, Venice risked being added to UNESCO’s list of Endangered World Heritage Sites after experts at the agency listed mass tourism , along with climate change and development, as a major threat to its future. It urged City Hall to take steps to ameliorate the damage.

The municipal council approved the access fee just days before UNESCO was to vote on its status, and Venice stayed off the “in danger” list . But UNESCO officials said in a statement that “further progress still needs to be made” to conserve Venice.

Critics of the access fee note that officials have not capped the number of visitors, and they say that the nominal fee is hardly a deterrent. As recently as Friday, city officials said that about 80,000 visitors swelled the city’s narrow calli, as the streets are known, and the gardens of the 2024 Venice Biennale , still the world’s principal place to discover new art .

How else is Venice trying to restrict visitors?

Venice also has taken other steps it hopes will reduce what city officials call “mordi e fuggi” tourism, or “eat and flee,” referring to those who seek the city’s greatest hits — the Rialto Bridge and St. Mark’s Square — and who bring packed lunches and dump their garbage, contributing little to the local economy.

After years of heated debate and protests by vocal Venetians, the city banned cruise ships from its inner canals in 2021 , though Mr. Camatti, the tourism expert, said the ban on the ships had not reduced the number of day visitors.

This year, the city imposed a limit of 25 people per tour group and also banned the use of megaphones.

Elisabetta Povoledo is a reporter based in Rome, covering Italy, the Vatican and the culture of the region. She has been a journalist for 35 years. More about Elisabetta Povoledo

Pope Francis visits Venice, says his work isn't easy

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  • Pope makes flying visit to Venice, first trip of 2024
  • Meets prisoners, youngsters and artists
  • Three more Italy trips planned before major Asia tour

Pope Francis meets with faithful at the Venice Women's Prison on the Island of Giudecca

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Pope meets women prisoners in Venice, first trip in months

P ope Francis on Sunday visited a prison for women in Venice ahead of a mass in the watery city representing the 87-year-old pontiff's first trip outside Rome for seven months. 

The one-day trip to Venice will be closely watched amid concerns over the fragile health of Francis, who has toured the world extensively in his 11 years as pope but has not travelled since visiting the French city of Marseille in September.

Arriving by helicopter at 8:00am local time to the courtyard of the women's prison on the island of Giudecca, the pope greeted one by one the approximately 80 inmates, staff and volunteers.

The pope, who throughout his papacy has spoken up in defence of prisoners and the marginalised, encouraged the women to reconstruct their lives "brick upon brick, together, with determination" during their time behind bars. 

"Prison is a harsh reality, and problems such as overcrowding, the lack of facilities and resources, and episodes of violence, give rise to a great deal of suffering there," he said, sitting in front of the prisoners. 

"But it can also become a place of moral and material rebirth..." he added.

Francis called on the prison system to "offer detainees the tools and room for human, spiritual, cultural and professional growth, creating the conditions for their healthy reintegration".

The pope also toured the art exhibition housed at the prison that considers the daily lives of the inmates through the work of 10 different artists.

The exhibit is the Vatican's entry for this year's Biennale festival of art, which began last weekend.

Francis's visit represents "a historic moment because he will be the first pope to visit the Venice Biennale," said the exhibition's lead curator, Jose Tolentino de Mendonca.

Last year in December, a bout of bronchitis forced the pope to cancel a trip to Dubai, where he was to have addressed UN climate talks.

He also pulled out of an Easter event at the last minute in March, after suffering for several weeks from what the Vatican called a "light flu".

- Mass on St Mark's Square -

Following the prison visit, the pope is due to address young people at the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute, a landmark church on the south end of the Grand Canal.

From there he will head to St Mark's Square via a bridge built on a base of boats lined up across the canal and preside over a mass starting at 11:00am.

He is due to depart Venice in the early afternoon, having become the fourth pope to visit the city, after Paul VI (1972), Jean-Paul II (1985) and Benedict XVI (2011).

The diocese of Venice is one of the largest in Italy, with 125 parishes, and has close ties with the papacy. Three Venice patriarchs became popes in the 20th century.

Francis's visit comes on the same weekend as Venice launches a new entry fee for day-trippers, aimed at easing the pressure of tourism on the UNESCO World Heritage site.

As a guest, the head of the Catholic Church will be exempt from buying a five-euro ($5.30) ticket, but non-resident pilgrims visiting for his mass will have to pay.

The pontiff, who uses a wheelchair, has suffered increasing health problems in recent years, from knee pain to surgery for a hernia and on his colon.

Despite his health, the Vatican is planning an ambitious 12-day trip to Asia in September, taking in Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, East Timor and Singapore.

Before that, the pope is due to make two other trips within Italy, to Verona in May and Trieste in July.

Pope Francis has toured the world in his 11 years as head of the Catholic Church, but had not travelled since visiting the French city of Marseille in September

Venice Tests a 5-Euro Entry Fee for Day-Trippers as the Italian City Grapples With Overtourism

The fragile lagoon city of Venice has launched a pilot program to charge day-trippers a 5-euro or $5.35 entry fee that authorities hope will discourage visitors from arriving on peak days and make the city more livable for its dwindling residents

Luca Bruno

Stewards check tourists QR code access outside the main train station in Venice, Italy, Thursday, April 25, 2024. The fragile lagoon city of Venice begins a pilot program Thursday to charge daytrippers a 5 euro entry fee that authorities hope will discourage tourists from arriving on peak days. The daytripper tax is being tested on 29 days through July, mostly weekends and holidays starting with Italy's Liberation Day holiday Thursday. Officials expect some 10,000 people will pay the fee to access the city on the first day, downloading a QR code to prove their payment, while another 70,000 will receive exceptions, for example, because they work in Venice or live in the Veneto region. (AP Photo/Luca Bruno)

VENICE, Italy (AP) — Under the gaze of the world’s media, the fragile lagoon city of Venice launched a pilot program Thursday to charge day-trippers a 5-euro ($5.35) entry fee that authorities hope will discourage visitors from arriving on peak days and make the city more livable for its dwindling residents.

Visitors arriving at Venice's main train station were greeted with large signs listing the 29 dates through July of the plan's test phase that also designated separate entrances for tourists, and residents, students and workers.

“We need to find a new balance between the tourists and residents,’’ said Simone Venturini, the city’s top tourism official. “We need to safeguard the spaces of the residents, of course, and we need to discourage the arrival of day-trippers on some particular days.”

Not all residents, however, are persuaded of the efficacy of the new system in dissuading mass tourism , insisting that only a resurgence in the population will restore balance to a city where narrow alleyways and water buses are often clogged with tourists.

Hundreds of Venetians protested against the program, marching festively though the city's main bus terminal behind banners reading “No to Tickets, Yes to Services and Housing.” Protesters scuffled briefly with police with riot gear who blocked them from entering the city, before changing course and entering over another bridge escorted by plainclothes police officers. The demonstration wrapped up peacefully in a piazza.

Tourists arriving at the main station encountered almost as many journalists as stewards on hand to politely guide anyone unaware of the new requirements through the process of downloading the QR code to pay the fee.

Photos You Should See - April 2024

A Deori tribal woman shows the indelible ink mark on her finger after casting her vote during the first round of polling of India's national election in Jorhat, India, Friday, April 19, 2024. Nearly 970 million voters will elect 543 members for the lower house of Parliament for five years, during staggered elections that will run until June 1. (AP Photo/Anupam Nath)

Arianna Cecilia, a tourist from Rome visiting Venice for the first time, said she thought it was “strange” to have to pay to enter a city in her native country, and be funneled through separate entrance ways for tourists. She and her boyfriend were staying in nearby Treviso, and so downloaded the QR code as required. But she was still caught off-guard while soaking in her first view ever of Venice's canals by the sight of the entrance signs and her boyfriend telling her to get out the ticket.

On the other side of the entrance ways, workers in yellow vests carried out random checks at the train station. Transgressors face fines of 50 to 300 euros ($53 to $320), but officials said “common sense” was being applied for the launch.

The requirement applies only for people arriving between 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. Outside of those hours, access is free and unchecked.

Venice has long suffered under the pressure of overtourism, and officials hope that the pilot project can help provide more exact figures to better manage the phenomenon.

The city can track the number of hotel visitors, which last year numbered 4.6 million and is down 16% from pre-pandemic highs. But the number of day visitors, which make up the majority of the crowds in Venice, could only be estimated until recently.

A Smart Control Room set up during the pandemic has been tracking arrivals from cellphone data, roughly confirming pre-pandemic estimates of 25 million to 30 million arrivals a year, said Michele Zuin, the city’s top economic official. That includes both day-trippers and overnight guests.

But Zuin said the data is incomplete.

“It’s clear we will get more reliable data from the contribution” being paid by day-trippers, he said.

Venturini said the city is strained when the number of day-trippers reaches 30,000 to 40,000. On peak days, local police set up one-way traffic for pedestrians to keep the crowds moving.

Residents opposing the day-tripper tax insist that the solution to Venice's woes are to boost the resident population and the services they need, limiting short-term rentals to make available more housing and attract families back from the mainland.

Last year, Venice passed a telling milestone when the number of tourist beds exceeded for the first time the number of official residents, which is now below 50,000 in the historic center with its picturesque canals.

“Putting a ticket to enter a city will not decrease not even by one single unit the number of visitors that are coming,’’ said Tommaso Cacciari, an activist who organized a protest Thursday against the measure.

“You pay a ticket to take the metro, to go to a museum, an amusement park. You don’t pay a ticket to enter a city. This is the last symbolic step of a project of an idea of this municipal administration to kick residents out of Venice,” he said.

Venice Mayor Luigi Brugnaro declared the launch day, coinciding with an Italian holiday, a success, registering 15,700 paying visitors, 50% more than anticipated.

More than 97,000 others had downloaded a QR code denoting an exemption, including to work in Venice or as a resident of the Veneto region. Hotels in Venice, including in mainland districts like Marghera or Mestre, provided a QR code for visitors to attest to their stay, which includes a hotel tax — accounting for 40,000 of those.

Venturini, the tourist official, said that interest in Venice’s pilot program has been keen from other places suffering from mass tourism, including other Italian art cities, and municipalities abroad such as Barcelona, Spain, and Amsterdam.

But Marina Rodino, who has lived in Venice for 30 years, doesn't see the fee as the cure-all. Neighboring apartments in her residential building near the famed Rialto Bridge once inhabited by families are now short-term apartment rentals.

The corner butcher shop closed. Yet she noted that the new entrance fee requirement will still allow young people to flood the city in the evening for the traditional aperitivo, which can grow rowdy.

She was passing out mock European Union passports for “Venice, Open City,” underlining the irony of the new system, and challenging its legal standing with citations from the Italian Constitution guaranteeing its citizens the right to “move or reside freely in any part of the national territory."

“This is not a natural oasis. This is not a museum. It is not Pompeii. It is a city, where we need to fight so the houses are inhabited by families, and stores reopen. That is what would counter this wild tourism,’’ Rodino said.

Copyright 2024 The  Associated Press . All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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IMAGES

  1. Venice from Rome Day Tour with St Mark's Basilica

    venice day trips from rome

  2. Best day trips from Rome to Venice

    venice day trips from rome

  3. Explore Venice from Rome in a day

    venice day trips from rome

  4. Day Trip from Rome to Venice

    venice day trips from rome

  5. Venice from Rome Day Tour with St Mark's Basilica

    venice day trips from rome

  6. Venice Day Tour from Rome by High Speed Train with Hop On Hop Off Boat

    venice day trips from rome

VIDEO

  1. Italy by Train

  2. Day trip from Rome to Venice, Italy 🇮🇹

  3. Venice in a Day: Hidden Gems & Top Attractions

  4. Italy Tours: Venice, Florence & Rome

  5. 2 Days in Venice: How to Spend 2 Days or 48 Hours in Venice

  6. 5 Day trips from Rome and How to Get There + Best Things to See and Do

COMMENTS

  1. THE TOP 10 BEST Day Trips from Rome to Venice in 2024

    High-Speed train Rome to Venice: Day trip & Happy Hour. 269. Take this independent day trip to Venice from Rome for a chance to wander the city's maze of alleyways, visit St. Mark's Square, and float down the famous canals by water bus. Travel from Rome to Venice by train, arriving ready to explore the city however you wish.

  2. THE BEST Day Trips from Rome to Venice (UPDATED 2024)

    Private Venice Experience by Train from Rome. Rail Tours. 6+ hours. High Speed Train Experience Travel by train trough the countryside Have the chance to see Venice in One Day from Rome …. from. $414. per adult. 8. Venice from Rome: Full Day Tour by fast train, Private Group.

  3. From Rome: Day Trip to Venice by High-Speed Train

    17 Polignano a Mare. 18 La Spezia. 19 Palau. 20 Cala Gonone. Climb aboard a high-speed train to Venice on a day trip from Rome. Explore the iconic canals via waterbus, enjoy free time to explore the city, and rejoin your leader for an aperitif.

  4. Venice from Rome: Private Day Trip by train with Islands Tour

    What's included. Pick up from your hotel/B&B/appartement in Rome. Return second class train tickets to Venice. 3,5 hours Private Boat tour of Murano Burano. 3 hours tour of Venice. Private local guide for the tour of the islands and the walking tour of Venice. Pick up from Rome rail Station back to your Hotel/B&B/Apartment in Rome.

  5. Venice Day Trip From Rome: Here's What You Need to Know

    The earliest bus leaves at 7.30 am. The last bus leaves Rome at 11.55 pm and travels through the night, arriving in Venice the next morning at 7.45 am. Buses arrive at Venice Mestre or Venice Tronchetto. You can book a bus ticket from Rome to Venice online in advance with Omio, Flixbus or direct with Itabus.

  6. Venice Day Trip from Rome: Private Tour by High Speed Train

    Venice from Rome: Private Day Trip by train with Islands Tour. 6. Full-day Tours. from. $891.70. per adult (price varies by group size) Venice from Rome: Enjoy a Day Tour by Fast Train, Small Group. 1. Historical Tours.

  7. Best day trips from Rome to Venice

    Burano. The Venice lagoon is shockingly vast, and you'll find that day trips from Rome to Venice can very easily stretch out to more than a day. If there's just one other Venice island you visit beyond the main city, it's Burano. Known for its colourful houses over the water, it would be unfair (or even remotely true) to say Burano is ...

  8. How to Do Venice in One Day from Rome

    To make the most of a Venice day trip, you're going to have to get up early. The best Rome departure is on the Italo 6:15 a.m. train, arriving in Venice at 10 a.m. A return at 7 p.m. gives you nine full hours to do whatever you want in La Serenissima. To make the journey even sweeter, Italo Treno offers day return fares at great prices.

  9. UNESCO Site: Venice Day Trip From Rome

    Itinerary. Tour duration: 12 hours. Daydreaming about Venice's charming water canals, sunsets and historic multi-colored buildings? Set off with us on a day trip to Venice and reach Europe's most romantic city in just a few hours by high-speed train! One of our tour leaders will be with you all the way from Termini train station to make ...

  10. 6 BEST Venice Tours from Rome (selected by an Italian)

    Multi-Day Tours from Rome to Venice. ️ The Best of Italy: 5-Day Escorted Tour from Rome is a super-comprehensive adventure! You'll be whisked away from Rome to travel around 9 different cities, including the iconic Venice. Your friendly guide will lead the way around Assisi, Siena, Florence, Pisa, Bologna, Padova, Venice, and Montepulciano.

  11. Venice in 1 Day from Rome by High-Speed Train

    The train departs from Rome's Termini station at 07:35 AM, and departs Venice's Santa Lucia station at approximately 6:25 PM, arriving back in Rome at 10:10 PM. Exact train schedules may vary slightly; you will receive confirmation of your exact train schedule after booking. Check-in is 15 minutes prior to the booked tour start time.

  12. 11 Best Venice Day Trips (2024)

    Teatro Olimpico (Olympic Theater) — Piazza Matteotti, 11. Palazzo Chiericati (Chiericati Palace) — Piazza Matteotti, 37/39. Villa Rotonda del Palladio (Palladio's Round Villa) — Via della Rotonda, 45. Just 45 minutes by car, Vicenza is really one of the most doable, and best, Venice day trips.

  13. UNESCO Jewels: Venice day trip from Rome

    [email protected]. 0039 06 474 2501 (from November to March Monday-Saturday 6:30 AM - 7:00 PM / Sunday 6:30 AM - 8:15 PM) From April to October 6:30 AM - 9:00 PM. 0039 348 8112027 (Whatsapp only) No trip to Italy is complete without a visit to Venice, exploring the canals in one of the world's most romantic cities.

  14. From Rome: Day Trip to Venice

    199 Reviews. from €267.00 EUR. Duration: 1 Day. Organized by: Gray Line I Love Rome. BOOK NOW. Experience the unparalleled beauty and romance of Venice on a day trip from Rome. Board a high-speed train and immerse yourself in the magic of the city of canals, while also enjoying the convenience of a guided tour and plenty of free time to explore.

  15. Venice Day Trip from Rome by High-Speed Train 2023

    Take this independent day trip to Venice from Rome for a chance to wander the city's maze of alleyways, visit St Mark's Square and float down the famous canals by water bus. You'll travel from Rome to Venice by train, arriving in just 3.5 hours to explore the city however you wish. Get to St. Mark's Square, turn left and breathe in the magnificence of the western façade of St. Mark's ...

  16. 10 Best Tours & Trips from Rome to Venice 2024/2025

    In-depth Cultural from Rome to Venice (32) Coach / Bus from Rome to Venice (19) Private from Rome to Venice (18) Self-Guided from Rome to Venice (10) Train & Rail from Rome to Venice (6) Find tours that start in Rome, Italy and then finish in Venice. Find tour itineraries, read real customer reviews and compare different tour operators.

  17. 20 Best Venice Day Trips & Tours from Rome

    A private day tour of Venice costs about €780 per person for a group of two persons and includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as train tickets and an English-speaking assistant for the duration of the trip. The 2-day tours from Rome cost over €1,000 per person for a group of two people. The price includes overnight accommodation with ...

  18. Day Trips From Rome To Venice

    Traveling from Rome to Venice is convenient and offers various transportation options: By Train: The high-speed train is the fastest and most popular way to travel between Rome and Venice. It takes approximately 3 to 4 hours, providing comfort and stunning views along the way. By Plane: If you prefer a quicker option, you can take a short ...

  19. Day Trips from Venice

    From Rome: Day Trip to Venice by High-Speed Train. 1 day; Skip the line; 4.5 (213) From. $292.12. per person. Top rated. Day trip. Venice: Prosecco Wine Tasting Tour. 6 hours; Eco-certified. 4.9 (238) From. $170.14. per person. Day trip. From Venice: Dolomites and Prosecco Hills Day Trip with Wine. 10 hours; Small group; Likely to sell out. 5 ...

  20. 12 best day trips from Venice

    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.

  21. 2024 2-Days Venice trip from Rome

    2-Days Venice trip from Rome - private tour cancellation policy: If you cancel at least 7 days in advance of the scheduled departure, there is no cancellation fee. If you cancel between 3 and 6 day (s) in advance of the scheduled departure, there is a 50 percent cancellation fee. If you cancel within 2 days of the scheduled departure, there is ...

  22. Venice Access Fee: What to Know Before Your Day Trip

    For 2024, city officials have singled out 29 peak days when single-day travelers in Venice between 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. have to pay. The days run until mid-July and are mostly on national holidays ...

  23. Pope Francis visits Venice, says his work isn't easy

    Pope Francis made his first trip out of Rome for seven months on Sunday with a packed visit to Venice that took in an art exhibition, a prison and a Mass, with the 87-year pontiff acknowledging ...

  24. Pope Francis makes first trip outside of Rome in months with visit to

    Pope Francis made his first trip outside Rome in seven months on Sunday, visiting a prison for women in Venice ahead of a mass in the city. The Pope has not travelled since visiting the French ...

  25. Pope meets women prisoners in Venice, first trip in months

    Pope Francis on Sunday visited a prison for women in Venice ahead of a mass in the watery city representing the 87-year-old pontiff's first trip outside Rome for seven months. The one-day trip to ...

  26. Venice Tests a 5-Euro Entry Fee for Day-Trippers as the Italian City

    VENICE, Italy (AP) — Under the gaze of the world's media, the fragile lagoon city of Venice launched a pilot program Thursday to charge day-trippers a 5-euro ($5.35) entry fee that authorities ...