Venice, Italy: A Dreamy Day by the Canals
Venice is a city like no other—where canals replace streets, gondolas glide past centuries-old buildings, and every corner feels like a masterpiece. The city enchants with its charm, history, and undeniable romance.
Here’s how our adventure unfolded within a day wandering through hidden alleys and charming streets, soaking up postcard-worthy views, and experiencing the magic of this floating city!
The Journey: Milan to Venice
From Milan, Venice is just a train ride away — perfect for a day trip bursting with adventure and endless discoveries!
We boarded a train from Milano Centrale Station to Venice. The journey took about 2.5 hours, giving us a relaxed start to the day and plenty of time to daydream about what awaited us. As we pulled into Venice Santa Lucia station, we were greeted with views of shimmering canals and the hustle and bustle of water taxis.
Exploring Venice: A Walk to Remember
Instead of hopping on a gondola (though tempting), we decided to explore Venice on foot, discovering all the iconic stops along the way.
The Rialto Bridge: One of the most famous landmarks in Venice, the Rialto Bridge offered stunning views of the Grand Canal. We paused here (for a few minutes) to watch gondolas gliding by and took some photos (this spot can get crowded easily).
St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco): This iconic square is the heart of Venice. We marveled at the grandeur of St. Mark’s Basilica, the towering Campanile, and the intricate details of the Doge’s Palace. The square buzzes with life, from camera-clicking tourists to swooping pigeons.
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| St. Mark’s Basilica |
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| Doge's Palace & Biblioteca Nazionale Marciana |
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| Clock Tower |
Hidden Alleys and Canals: Wandering off the beaten path, we discovered quieter streets and serene canals. These less crowded areas felt like a secret Venice, where the charm of the city shines even brighter.
Local Shops and Cafés: Venice is brimming with shops selling Murano glass, Venetian masks, and other unique souvenirs. We also indulged in some gelato (because how can you not?) while soaking up the atmosphere.
Fun Facts About Venice
Venice is made up of 118 islands. These islands are connected by over 400 bridges and separated by 177 canals.
No cars allowed! Venice is one of the largest car-free urban areas in Europe. Walking or taking a boat are the only ways to get around.
Venetian masks have a rich history. These masks were originally worn during Carnival to disguise identity and social class.
The gondola tradition is centuries old. Gondolas were once the primary mode of transport in Venice. Today, they’re more for tourists, but each gondola is still meticulously handcrafted.
Tips for Fellow Travelers
Start early - Venice can get crowded, especially in popular spots like St. Mark’s Square and the Rialto Bridge. An early start means fewer crowds and better photos. Our day trip was somewhat half day. 😂
Wear comfortable shoes - The charm of Venice lies in its walkability, so expect to spend a lot of time on your feet. Wear comfy shoes for navigating cobblestones and bridges.
Get lost on purpose - The best way to experience Venice is by wandering aimlessly. You’ll stumble upon picturesque corners and hidden gems.
Skip the gondola (or don’t) - Gondola rides are pricey, but they’re undeniably iconic. If you’re on a budget, walking provides just as much magic, if not more. While we didn't try, according to many tourists, Libreria Acqua Alta is a place where you can take a free gondola picture without paying the hefty price of a gondola ride. Try it1
Keep your passport handy - Police often check both your passport and ticket, oftentimes in the train station.
Is it worth going to Venice for a day?
Our day in Venice was like stepping into a dream — the perfect mix of iconic sights and quiet discoveries. Whether you’re strolling along the Grand Canal, indulging in local treats, or simply soaking up the unique atmosphere, Venice has a way of stealing your heart.
If you can stay longer then go for it. But, one day is enough to see the city and visit some of the most notable places.
Until next time, arrivederci Venezia!