What are the Best Day Trips from Venice?

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Venice is full of canals, bridges, and beautiful old buildings. But once you’ve walked through St Mark’s Square, taken a gondola ride, and explored the small streets, you might want a change of scenery. The good news is that there are many great places to visit just a short train or boat ride away.

From quiet islands known for glass and lace, to lively towns with Roman history or mountain views, you don’t have to travel far to see more of what northern Italy has to offer. Whether you’re into art, food, nature, or history, these day trips can give you a fresh experience without the need for an overnight stay.

Related: The Island That Gave Birth to Venice (Torcello)

Here are some of the best places to explore on a day trip from Venice.

The Day Trip Most Visitors Pick First Is Often the One They Regret Most

Ask ten people planning their first Venice trip which island to visit, and most will say Murano. It makes sense on paper — glass-blowing is iconic, the reputation is legendary, and every tour desk in Venice will sell you a ticket. But the reality for many visitors is a short boat ride to what amounts to a series of showrooms staffed by people eager to sell you a glass swan you’ll regret packing. The craft itself is genuinely impressive, but the experience is often more commercial than cultural.

Burano — just a short ferry onwards — is an altogether different proposition. Its brightly painted houses are among the most photographed in Italy for good reason, and the pace is slower, the atmosphere more authentic. For those willing to go a little further, Torcello is the one to aim for: a half-abandoned island with a cathedral older than Venice itself, where you can stand in near-silence and feel the weight of history. The lesson here is simple — the most popular day trip and the best day trip are rarely the same thing.

Verona

Plan your visit: Our Verona travel guide

Just over an hour from Venice by train, Verona is one of the best places for a day trip. Known as the setting for Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, it offers a mix of history, culture, and relaxed city life. You won’t need a car, as most of the top sights are within walking distance from the train station or the old town.

Verona is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its well-preserved Roman and medieval buildings. The city sits along the Adige River and has long been a key spot for trade and culture in northern Italy.

Verona Arena

Plan your visit: Arena di Verona (official site: opera season and visits)

This Roman amphitheatre is one of the oldest and best kept in the world. Built in the 1st century, it once held up to 30,000 people for gladiator fights and shows. Today, it’s still used for concerts and opera. If you visit in summer, you might catch an open-air performance. The arena sits right in the heart of the old town, in Piazza Bra.

Juliet’s House (Casa di Giulietta)

Plan your visit: Juliet's House (Comune di Verona, official site)

Juliet’s House (Casa di Giulietta) is a popular stop in Verona, linked to the story of Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare. The house dates back to the 13th century and once belonged to the Cappello family, whose name is similar to “Capulet,” Juliet’s family in the play. While the connection is fictional, many visitors come to see the spot believed to represent Juliet’s home.

Inside the house, there’s a small museum with period furniture, costumes from film versions of the play, and displays about Verona’s history. In the courtyard, you’ll find the famous balcony and a bronze statue of Juliet that people touch for luck. Tourists often take photos here or leave notes on the walls. The house is a short walk from Verona’s main square and can get busy, especially in peak season.

Castelvecchio and Bridge (Ponte Scaligero)

Plan your visit: Castelvecchio Museum (Comune di Verona, official site)

Castelvecchio is a medieval fortress in Verona, built in the 14th century by the Scaliger family, who once ruled the city. Its red brick walls, towers, and moat were designed for defence. Today, it holds the Castelvecchio Museum, which displays artwork, sculptures, weapons, and historical items from Verona and the surrounding area.

Next to the castle is the Ponte Scaligero, a large brick bridge built to help the Scaliger family escape the city if needed. The bridge crosses the Adige River and is known for its high walls and wide arches. It was destroyed during World War II but rebuilt in the 1950s using much of the original material. Both the castle and bridge offer clear views over Verona and are easy to reach from the city centre.

Piazza delle Erbe

Plan your visit: Lamberti Tower above Piazza delle Erbe (official site)

This square was once the site of the Roman forum and is now a lively place full of cafés, shops, and stalls. You’ll see historical buildings with colourful frescos, the tall Lamberti Tower, and the 14th-century fountain with a Roman statue in the centre. It’s a great spot to stop for coffee or a light meal while taking in the local scene.

Giardino Giusti

Plan your visit: Giardino Giusti (official site)

These 16th-century gardens are a peaceful place on the edge of the old town. They are laid out in a neat style, with fountains, hedges, and statues. You can climb the hill at the back for one of the best views of Verona’s rooftops and church towers. Famous people like Goethe and Mozart once visited this garden.

Related: The Ancient Paths Above the Amalfi Coast That Most Tourists Never Find

Murano

Plan your visit: Our story of Murano and its glassmakers

Just a 10-minute vaporetto (water bus) ride from Venice, Murano is one of the easiest and most interesting day trips from the city. Known all over the world for its glass-making, this small island offers a slower pace, fewer crowds, and a chance to see real Venetian craftsmanship in action.

Murano is actually made up of seven islands linked by bridges and canals. Glassmakers were moved here from Venice in 1291 to reduce the risk of fires in the main city. Today, visitors can watch artisans shape glass into everything from jewellery to chandeliers using skills passed down for centuries.

Murano Glass Museum (Museo del Vetro)

Plan your visit: Murano Glass Museum (official site)

Located in the historic Palazzo Giustinian, the museum shows the full story of Murano glass, from ancient Roman pieces to modern designs. You’ll learn how glass is made, the different styles, and how Murano became a world leader in this craft. Give it an hour if you are curious about art and history.

Church of Santa Maria e San Donato

Plan your visit: Santi Maria e Donato (Murano parish, official site)

This 12th-century church is known for its colourful mosaic floor, which dates back to the Middle Ages. It’s also said to hold the bones of a dragon, kept behind the altar. The outside of the church has a rounded apse and striped brickwork that show the mix of Byzantine and Romanesque design.

Glass Factories and Workshops

Plan your visit: Consorzio Promovetro: map of Murano glass companies (official Vetro Artistico Murano trademark)

Many glass studios on the island welcome visitors to watch live glass-blowing demonstrations. Some are free, while others charge a small fee or are part of guided tours. Watching hot glass turn into vases, animals, or beads is a highlight of any visit. Just be aware that the best quality pieces are often in the quieter shops, not the large tourist stores.

Campo Santo Stefano and the Comet Glass Star

Plan your visit: Simone Cenedese, the Murano glass master who made the comet (official site)

This main square is a good place to relax, have lunch, and see some public glass art. Next to the clock tower stands a large cobalt-blue glass sculpture, the Cometa di Vetro (Glass Comet), made by Murano glass master Simone Cenedese. It shines brightly in the sun. The square is also close to several cafés and shops.

Palazzo da Mula

Plan your visit: Murano and Palazzo da Mula on Italia.it (official)

This Gothic palace on the Canale degli Angeli is one of the oldest on the island. Its brick front, white stone trim and pointed windows make it stand out. Today it holds Murano’s town hall offices and is used for local events and exhibitions, and though it’s not always open inside, it’s worth seeing from the outside as you walk along the canal.

Related: Why the Southern Tip of Puglia Remains Italy’s Best-Kept Coastal Secret

Burano

Plan your visit: Burano Lace Museum (official)

Burano is a small island about 40 minutes from Venice by vaporetto (water bus). It’s known for its brightly painted houses and traditional lace-making. According to local stories, fishermen painted their homes in bold colours so they could see them from far away while out at sea.

The island has a strong community feel and is quieter than Venice. People still sit outside to chat, dry laundry on lines above the canals, and sell handmade lace from family-run shops. Burano is also a good spot to enjoy fresh seafood, especially at local trattorias by the water.

Lace Museum (Museo del Merletto)

Plan your visit: Burano Lace Museum: building and history (official site)

Housed in the old Podestà palace on Piazza Galuppi, home of the Burano Lace School from 1872 to 1970, this museum shows Venetian lace from the 16th to the 20th century. The museum also features maquettes, pattern books, and documentary materials that show how lace grew from a local pastime to a respected Venetian art. One of its best features: during opening hours you can watch lacemakers at work. The museum is small but well worth a visit if you’re interested in local traditions.

Bepi’s House (Casa di Bepi Suà)

Plan your visit: Bepi's House on isoladiburano.it (Burano's island guide)

Bepi’s House, on the island of Burano, is one of the most recognisable homes in the Venetian lagoon. Painted in vibrant geometric shapes—circles, squares, triangles—it stands out even among Burano’s famously colourful houses. It was the home of Giuseppe “Bepi” Toselli, a film lover who worked as a janitor at the island’s Cinema Favin. When the cinema closed he sold sweets in Piazza Galuppi (hence “Bepi of Candies”), and until the early 1980s he showed cartoons to the island’s children on a white sheet hung on his wall.

Locals remember him painting a new shape on his wall almost every afternoon. The house now appears on postcards around the world. You see it from the small campiello (courtyard) in front of it.

It is a private house, so admire it from outside.

Church of San Martino

Plan your visit: San Martino's leaning bell tower on isoladiburano.it (Burano's island guide)

Burano’s parish church took its present shape between 1500 and 1600 and was consecrated in 1645. Its 53-metre bell tower leans 1.83 metres because the ground has sunk, and you can see it from across the island. Inside is a Crucifixion by Giambattista Tiepolo. The church is simple but peaceful, and the nearby square is a good place to take a break.

Burano Lace Shops

Plan your visit: Burano lace shops on isoladiburano.it (Burano's island guide)

Many of the island’s lace shops are family-run and have been around for generations. Some still offer live demonstrations where you can watch older women work with needle and thread. Be sure to ask if the lace is handmade, as some items sold are made by machine or imported. True Burano lace takes time and skill to create.

Canal Walks and Photo Stops

Plan your visit: Things to do in Burano on isoladiburano.it (Burano's island guide)

Walking along the canals is one of the best ways to enjoy Burano. The rows of colourful homes make it feel like no two streets look the same. There are small bridges, quiet corners, and lots of places to stop and take photos. The best times to visit are early morning or late afternoon, when the island is less busy.

Torcello

Plan your visit: Torcello on Italia.it (official)

Torcello is one of the oldest islands in the Venetian Lagoon. Long before Venice became powerful, Torcello was the lagoon’s most important centre, home to tens of thousands of people and rich from its port, salt pans and wool trade. Today, it is mostly quiet and green, with just a few homes, a church, and walking paths. Many people visit for peace, nature, and to see some of the oldest buildings in the region.

Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta

Plan your visit: Our story of Torcello and its cathedral

Founded in the 7th century (an inscription gives 639) and rebuilt in the 11th, this is one of the oldest buildings in the lagoon. It is known for its large gold-and-glass mosaics, especially the Last Judgement on the back wall. The cathedral shows how early Venice was influenced by both Western and Eastern art styles. You can also climb the bell tower for a wide view of the lagoon.

Church of Santa Fosca

Plan your visit: Torcello, Santa Fosca and the basilica on Italia.it (official, in Italian)

Next to the cathedral, this smaller church has a round shape and stone columns. It dates from around 1100, probably on the site of a 7th-century martyrium, and is a good example of Byzantine design. The space inside is simple and quiet, making it feel very different from the busy churches in Venice.

Attila’s Throne

Plan your visit: Torcello and Attila's Throne on isoladiburano.it (lagoon island guide)

Attila’s Throne on Torcello is a simple stone seat located in the piazza in front of the Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta. Despite its name, it was not used by Attila the Hun—he never visited Torcello. Nobody knows for sure what it was for; one common idea is that it was a seat for the island’s magistrates or bishop.

Local legend says that anyone who sits on the throne will return to Torcello one day, which makes it a fun tradition for visitors. Today, people can still sit on it while exploring the historic square. It remains a solid piece of Torcello’s early medieval history and a reminder of the island’s once-important role in the lagoon.

Devil’s Bridge (Ponte del Diavolo)

Plan your visit: Torcello and the Ponte del Diavolo on Italia.it (official, in Italian)

The Ponte del Diavolo (“Devil’s Bridge”) on Torcello is a simple, single-arch brick-and-stone bridge. Like the old bridges of Venice once were, it has no side railings, a rare sight in the lagoon today.

Its name comes from local stories. One tale says “Diavoli” was the surname of a family that lived on the island. However, the more famous legend tells of a young woman who summoned the devil here on Christmas Eve to restore her dead lover. In return, she needed to hand over seven souls. The lover appeared, but before the deal was fulfilled, the woman had vanished—leaving the devil waiting forever, often appearing as a black cat at midnight.

Today, the bridge stands as a quiet reminder of Torcello’s medieval past. Visitors can walk across it while heading between the island’s canal landing and central square. It’s a popular spot for photos, especially for those who enjoy a hint of local legend and simple, historic architecture.

Torcello Museum (Museo di Torcello)

Plan your visit: Torcello Museum (Città metropolitana di Venezia, official site)

This small museum is split into two buildings near the cathedral. It holds Roman pieces, early Christian art, and everyday items from when Torcello was a busy town. The museum helps explain how important the island once was and how it changed over time.

Bassano del Grappa

Plan your visit: Bassano del Grappa on Italia.it (official)

Bassano del Grappa is a small town at the foot of the Alps, about 90 minutes from Venice by train. It’s known for its wooden bridge, mountain views, and grappa, a strong drink made from grape skins. The town sits along the Brenta River and has a mix of medieval, Renaissance, and military history.

During World War I, Bassano was close to the front lines, and many soldiers passed through the town. Today, visitors come to enjoy its local food, walk through its old streets, and learn about its past. It’s a good day trip for those who want to see something different from Venice.

Ponte Vecchio (Old Bridge or Ponte degli Alpini)

Plan your visit: Ponte Palladiano (Ponte degli Alpini) on Veneto Around Me (Regione Veneto, official)

A bridge has stood at this crossing of the Brenta since at least 1209. Floods and wars destroyed it again and again, and each time it was rebuilt to the design Andrea Palladio drew in 1569. The Alpini, Italy’s mountain troops, rebuilt it after the Second World War (finished in 1948), which is why most people call it the Ponte degli Alpini.

Grappa Museum (Poli Museo della Grappa)

Plan your visit: Poli Museo della Grappa, Bassano (the Poli family's official site)

At the bridge end (Via Gamba 6), this small museum run by the Poli family, distillers since 1898, explains how grappa is made from grape pomace and its place in Veneto life.

Piazza Libertà and Piazza Garibaldi

Plan your visit: The squares of Bassano del Grappa on Veneto Around Me (Regione Veneto, official)

These are the two main squares in town. Piazza Libertà, once called Piazza dei Signori, has two columns topped by the Lion of Saint Mark and San Bassiano, the town’s patron saint, with the old Remondini printing houses on its north side. Next door, Piazza Garibaldi is also known as Piazza della Fontana or Piazza delle Erbe. Both are good places to stop, people-watch or grab lunch.

Museo Civico (Civic Museum)

Plan your visit: Museo Civico di Bassano del Grappa on Veneto Around Me (Regione Veneto, official)

The Museo Civico di Bassano del Grappa is housed in the former convent of San Francesco, on Piazza Garibaldi. Its collections run from prehistory to contemporary art.

It holds the world’s largest collection of work by Jacopo Bassano and his sons, the painter dynasty named after the town. Another highlight is the Antonio Canova collection: sculptures, paintings, drawings, books and letters that show how he worked.

Check opening times and guided visits on the museum’s own site, museibassano.it.

Monte Grappa Memorial

Plan your visit: Sacrario di Cima Grappa on Veneto Around Me (Regione Veneto, official)

Up on the summit of Monte Grappa, a mountain drive north of town, this First World War memorial sits along the ridge at 1,776 metres. It holds the remains of more than 12,600 Italian and more than 10,200 Austro-Hungarian soldiers, in two structures joined by the Via Eroica, a path lined with stones naming the Grappa battles. It was designed by architect Giovanni Greppi and sculptor Giannino Castiglioni.

Padua

Plan your visit: Our Padua travel guide

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Padua (Padova in Italian) is one of Italy’s oldest cities, just 30–45 minutes from Venice by train. It’s home to the second-oldest university in the country, founded in 1222, and has long been a centre for learning, medicine, and art. Galileo once taught here, and the city still feels active and full of students.

Padua also has deep religious ties, especially with Saint Anthony, who spent his final years in the city. Visitors often come for its art, large open squares, and peaceful walking paths along the canals. It’s easy to explore on foot or by tram, and offers a mix of history and everyday Italian life.

Scrovegni Chapel (Cappella degli Scrovegni)

Plan your visit: Scrovegni Chapel on Turismo Padova (booking details)

This small chapel holds one of the most important fresco cycles in Europe, painted by Giotto in the early 1300s. The scenes cover the life of Mary and Jesus, showing emotion and realism that were ahead of their time. The blue ceiling filled with stars is especially well-known.

Visits are limited and must be booked in advance. Before entering the chapel, visitors watch a short video in a climate-controlled room to help preserve the art. It’s a unique chance to see how painting changed during the early Renaissance.

Basilica of Saint Anthony (Basilica di Sant’Antonio di Padova)

Plan your visit: Basilica of Saint Anthony (official site)

This large church is a major religious site and welcomes millions of visitors each year. It holds the tomb of Saint Anthony, a beloved figure known for helping the poor and sick. The basilica was built in the 13th century and shows a mix of styles, with domes, towers, and detailed art.

Inside, you can find chapels decorated with bronze works by Donatello, including the high altar. Many people leave handwritten notes or small items near the tomb to ask for help or give thanks. There’s also a museum next door that shares more about the saint’s life and the church’s history.

Prato della Valle

Plan your visit: Prato della Valle on Turismo Padova

This wide, oval-shaped square is one of the largest in Europe. It has a grassy island in the middle, surrounded by a canal and lined with 78 statues of scholars, poets, and local leaders. It’s a popular place for markets, walks, and open-air events.

Locals come here to sit under the trees or ride bikes. On Saturdays, the square fills with stalls selling clothes, shoes, and household goods. In the evening, it becomes a social spot where families and students gather.

University of Padua and Anatomical Theatre

Plan your visit: Palazzo Bo and the Anatomical Theatre on Turismo Padova

Founded in 1222, the university is one of the oldest in the world. Famous scientists, including Galileo Galilei and William Harvey, studied or taught here. The medical school helped lead early discoveries in anatomy and the human body.

You can take a guided tour of the Palazzo del Bo, the historic centre of the university. Inside is the oldest anatomical theatre, built in 1594. Students crowded its steep tiers to watch anatomy lessons. The theatre is small, with steep rows for viewers, showing how closely science and learning were linked in Padua’s past.

Botanical Garden (Orto Botanico di Padova)

Plan your visit: Padua Botanical Garden on Turismo Padova

Created in 1545, this is the world’s oldest university botanical garden still in its original location. It was used to grow medicinal plants for students to study. Over time, it became a place for research and now holds thousands of plant species from around the world.

The garden has both old sections and a modern greenhouse area, added in recent years. You can see tropical plants, desert species, and even ancient trees like a palm planted in 1585. The garden is quiet and well-kept, ideal for a slow walk or short break.

Treviso

Plan your visit: Treviso on Italia.it (official)

Treviso is a relaxed town about 30 minutes from Venice by train. It’s known for its canals, old walls, and lively food scene. The town is often called a “mini Venice” but feels more local and less crowded. It’s a good place for walking, shopping, and enjoying traditional food and drink.

Treviso is also the home of tiramisu, one of Italy’s most famous desserts. It’s part of the Prosecco wine region too, with vineyards and wine bars nearby. The town still has its medieval gates, and many of its buildings show signs of both Roman and Renaissance history.

Piazza dei Signori

Plan your visit: Piazza dei Signori on Italia.it's Treviso page (official)

This central square is the heart of Treviso’s old town. It’s framed by the crenellated Palazzo dei Trecento, the medieval seat of the city’s council, and the civic tower beside it. The square often hosts events, markets, and outdoor cafés.

Locals meet here for coffee or an evening drink, and it’s a good starting point for walking through the rest of the city. Look out for the arches and details on the buildings—they show how the town grew over the centuries.

Fontana delle Tette

Plan your visit: Fontana delle Tette on Veneto Around Me (Regione Veneto, official)

This small fountain has an interesting story. It was built in 1559, after a severe drought, for the podestà Alvise Da Ponte. Whenever a new podestà (the city’s Venetian governor) took office, it poured white wine from one side and red from the other for three days, free for everyone. The name means “Fountain of the Breasts.”

The original bust now stands behind glass under the loggia of Palazzo dei Trecento, and a copy stands in a courtyard just off Via Calmaggiore. Many visitors come to find it and take a photo, as it’s one of the town’s most talked-about landmarks.

Cathedral of San Pietro Apostolo (Treviso Cathedral)

Plan your visit: Treviso Cathedral on Veneto Around Me (Regione Veneto, official)

The cathedral looks simple on the outside but holds great art and history inside. One of the main highlights is Titian’s Annunciation altarpiece (1521-23) in the Malchiostro Chapel. The building has parts from different times, from the 11th-century crypt to the front finished in 1836.

Next to the cathedral, you can visit the crypt and baptistery, both older than the main church. These quiet spaces give a good sense of how the town’s religious life developed over time.

Isola della Pescheria (Fish Market Island)

Plan your visit: Isola della Pescheria on Veneto Around Me (Regione Veneto, official)

This small island in the centre of Treviso has hosted the local fish market since the 1800s. Surrounded by canals, it’s a working part of the town where people come to buy fresh seafood in the morning.

Even if you don’t buy anything, walking through the area gives a real taste of daily life. The nearby bridges and water wheels also add to the feel of an old but active trading town.

Museo di Santa Caterina

Plan your visit: Museo di Santa Caterina (Musei Civici di Treviso, official site)

This museum is inside a former monastery and shows a mix of art and archaeology. One of the most famous works is the cycle of frescoes by Tommaso da Modena, which show saints in scenes full of detail and colour.

The museum also includes Roman finds, religious objects, and pieces from Treviso’s past. The building itself is interesting too, with cloisters and frescoes on the walls that have survived over time.

Chioggia

Plan your visit: Chioggia on Italia.it (official)

Chioggia is a seaside town at the southern end of the Venetian Lagoon. It takes about 1.5 hours to reach from Venice by ferry or bus. Often called “Little Venice,” Chioggia has its own network of canals, narrow streets, and colourful fishing boats. Unlike Venice, it feels more local and working-class, with a busy fish market and strong links to the sea.

Chioggia is one of Italy’s oldest fishing ports and has a long history of trade and boatbuilding. People here still make their living from the lagoon, catching clams, shrimp, and fish. The town is also known for fresh seafood dishes, lively street markets, and relaxed beaches in nearby Sottomarina.

Corso del Popolo

Plan your visit: Corso del Popolo, Chioggia, on Veneto Around Me (Regione Veneto, official)

This wide main street runs through the heart of Chioggia and is lined with cafés, shops, and churches. It’s a good place for a walk, with views of historic buildings and clock towers. Street stalls and local events often take place here, giving visitors a real sense of daily life.

You’ll also find several churches along Corso del Popolo, including Chioggia’s cathedral, Santa Maria Assunta.

Chioggia Fish Market (Mercato Ittico al Minuto)

Plan your visit: Pescheria, Chioggia, on Veneto Around Me (Regione Veneto, official)

Chioggia’s fish market is an old institution, set between the main square and the Vena canal, behind the Palazzo del Granaio. You walk in through the Portale a Prisca, a carved gateway by the Paduan sculptor Amleto Sartori (early 20th century). It is a morning market: come early to watch the stalls fill with fish from the lagoon and the Adriatic.

It mostly serves locals, but visitors are welcome to look around, and it is a good way to plan a seafood lunch in town.

Museum of Adriatic Zoology (Museo di Zoologia Adriatica “Giuseppe Olivi”)

Plan your visit: Museo di Zoologia Adriatica Giuseppe Olivi on Veneto Around Me (Regione Veneto, official)

Founded in 1795 and named after the Chioggia naturalist Giuseppe Olivi, this is one of Italy’s oldest scientific museums about the sea. It is now part of the University of Padua and sits in the 17th-century Palazzo Grassi on the Vena canal. You’ll see shells, fish, crustaceans and whole cetacean skeletons from the Adriatic.

It runs workshops and guided visits for families and schools, so it suits anyone curious about the sea life of the lagoon.

Clock Tower Museum (Torre dell’Orologio)

Plan your visit: Chioggia's Clock Tower on Italia.it (official)

This brick tower beside the church of Sant’Andrea on Corso del Popolo was once a lighthouse and watchtower for the town’s sailors. Today it holds Chioggia’s old tower clock and a small museum about the tower and the town.

Climbing the tower gives a better view of the town’s layout, including the canals and lagoon.

Sottomarina Beach

Plan your visit: Sottomarina on Italia.it (official)

Across a long bridge over the Lusenzo lagoon (built in 1922) is Sottomarina, Chioggia’s old fishing and market-garden village and its beach. The sandy shore runs for more than 10 km and is over 300 metres wide in places. In summer it fills with beach clubs and families.

Even in the cooler months the promenade is good for a quiet walk, and from the Forte di San Felice and the Sottomarina breakwater you can look back across the lagoon.

Ferrara

Plan your visit: Our Ferrara guide

Ferrara is a peaceful city in the Emilia-Romagna region, about an hour and a half from Venice by train. In the 15th and 16th centuries, it was home to the Este family—one of Italy’s most powerful noble families. They helped turn Ferrara into a centre of art, learning, and modern city planning. The city was one of the first in Europe to be built with a planned layout, which makes it easy to explore on foot or by bike.

Ferrara is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its wide roads, long city walls, and strong local food culture. Specialities include cappellacci di zucca (pumpkin pasta) and salama da sugo (a slow-cooked sausage). The mix of Renaissance buildings and relaxed atmosphere makes Ferrara a good break from Venice’s busy crowds.

Este Castle (Castello Estense)

Plan your visit: Castello Estense (official site)

Right in the centre of Ferrara, this red-brick castle has towers, a drawbridge, a moat, and underground prisons. It was built in the late 1300s to protect the Este family from revolts, but later became their home and seat of power. Visitors can tour the grand rooms, climb the towers, and walk down into the old prison cells.

Inside, there are frescoes, exhibitions, and views of Ferrara from the castle walls. The castle also explains how the Este family shaped the city, inviting artists, scientists, and writers to live and work there during the Renaissance. It’s one of the best ways to learn about Ferrara’s past.

Ferrara Cathedral (Cattedrale di San Giorgio)

Plan your visit: Ferrara Cathedral on Ferrara Info (official tourism site)

This cathedral is a mix of different styles, starting from the Romanesque period in the 1100s. The front has stone carvings showing religious scenes, while the inside includes Gothic and Baroque designs added over the years. The outside remains a key part of the city’s main square.

Next to the cathedral is the former market street, now full of cafés and small shops. The nearby bell tower, made of pink and white marble, adds to the view. The square is a lively place to stop for coffee or start a walking tour of the historic centre.

Palazzo dei Diamanti

Plan your visit: Palazzo dei Diamanti (official site)

This unique palace is named for the diamond-shaped stones that cover its outside walls. Built in the late 1400s, it was part of the “Addizione Erculea”—a major plan to expand Ferrara in a modern way. The palace once belonged to a branch of the Este family.

Today, it holds the National Picture Gallery and temporary art exhibitions. Inside, you can see works from local painters like Dosso Dossi and pieces from the Renaissance and Baroque periods. The building’s unusual shape and rich history make it a popular stop for art lovers and architecture fans.

City Walls and Green Belt (Le Mura di Ferrara)

Plan your visit: The city walls on Ferrara Info (official tourism site)

Ferrara has one of the longest and best-kept sets of city walls in Italy. They stretch for around 9 km and were built mainly in the 15th and 16th centuries to protect the city. Today, they are used as walking and cycling paths by locals and visitors.

Along the way, you’ll pass bastions, gates, and watchtowers. The area feels quiet and green, offering a break from city noise. It’s a nice way to explore the edge of the historic centre while also learning how Ferrara defended itself in the past.

Jewish Ghetto and National Museum of Italian Judaism (MEIS)

Plan your visit: MEIS, National Museum of Italian Judaism and the Shoah (official site)

Ferrara had one of Italy’s most active Jewish communities. The ghetto, set up in the 1600s, still has its narrow streets and old houses. Walking through the area gives a look into Jewish life over hundreds of years, including during times of both peace and persecution.

The nearby MEIS museum tells the story of Jews in Italy from Roman times to the present day. Its exhibitions use films, photos, and original objects to show both everyday life and major events like the Holocaust. It’s one of the most important museums of its kind in Europe and adds depth to any visit to Ferrara.

The Dolomites

Plan your visit: Our Dolomites travel guide

The Dolomites are a group of mountains in northern Italy, known for their tall peaks, deep valleys, and wide meadows. They are part of the Southern Alps and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It takes about two to three hours to reach the Dolomites from Venice by car, so it’s a long day trip, but one that offers a big change in scenery. Cortina and the Tre Cime are the closest; Lago di Braies, Alpe di Siusi and Val di Funes are about three hours’ drive each way, so for those we would plan at least one night.

The area is popular for hiking in summer and skiing in winter, but there’s more to it than sports. You’ll find peaceful villages, alpine lakes, and local dishes that reflect a mix of Italian, Austrian, and Ladin cultures. The Dolomites also hold fossil remains from over 200 million years ago, when the peaks were part of an ancient sea.

Cortina d’Ampezzo

Plan your visit: Cortina d'Ampezzo (official tourism site)

Cortina is one of the best-known mountain towns in the Dolomites. It hosted the Winter Olympics in 1956 and, together with Milan, the 2026 Winter Games. In summer, visitors come to hike, take cable cars, and enjoy fresh mountain air. In winter, it’s a hub for skiing, snowboarding, and other snow sports.

Even if you’re not doing sports, Cortina has plenty to offer. The town centre has cafés, shops, and old churches. The view of the mountains from the main square is impressive, and nearby trails are suitable for all skill levels. It’s a good base for short walks or half-day adventures.

Lago di Braies (Lake Braies)

Plan your visit: Lago di Braies (Braies Valley tourist office, official)

This clear, green-blue lake is one of the most photographed places in the Dolomites. It’s surrounded by forest and mountain cliffs. You can walk the path around the lake or see it from one of the wooden rowboats.

The lake is also the start of some hiking paths, including ones that lead into the Fanes-Sennes-Braies Nature Park. In the early morning or late afternoon, the light makes the lake look even more colourful. It’s a peaceful spot, but can get crowded in high season, so early arrival is best.

Tre Cime di Lavaredo (Three Peaks of Lavaredo)

Plan your visit: Tre Cime / Three Peaks Dolomites (official tourism site)

These three sharp mountain peaks are one of the symbols of the Dolomites. They sit inside a natural park and are reachable by road, followed by a short hike. The most popular walk is the loop around the three peaks, with views from all sides.

Along the way, you’ll pass alpine huts (called rifugi) where you can stop for food or a drink. The area was also a World War I battleground, and you can still see tunnels and trenches. It’s a mix of nature, history, and outdoor adventure all in one place.

Alpe di Siusi (Seiser Alm)

Plan your visit: Alpe di Siusi / Seiser Alm (official tourism site)

This is the largest alpine meadow in Europe, with rolling hills, grazing cows, and long walking paths. It’s known for being peaceful and easy to explore, even for families or those not used to hiking. In winter, it becomes a quiet ski area.

Private cars are restricted on the plateau, so most visitors take the cable car up from Siusi or Ortisei. Once there, the wide paths offer views of the nearby peaks and wildflowers in warmer months. Local huts serve traditional food like dumplings, cheese, and apple strudel.

Val di Funes (Villnöß Valley)

Plan your visit: Val di Funes (official tourism site)

This small valley is known for its quiet views and traditional villages. It’s one of the best spots to see the Odle mountain group, which stands tall behind fields and churches. The most famous viewpoint includes the Church of St. Magdalena, often seen in photos.

Val di Funes is great for walks and short hikes, and its upper end lies in the Puez-Odle Nature Park, part of the Dolomites UNESCO World Heritage site.

How Long Each Day Trip Takes and Where to Check Tickets

The lagoon islands are a short water-bus ride away; the mainland towns are an easy train ride. Fares and museum prices change, so check them on the official sites before you go (checked October 2026).

• Murano, Burano and Torcello: ACTV water buses from Fondamente Nove (line 12 for Burano and Torcello). Timetables, single tickets and the tourist travel cards are on the ACTV site. The Glass Museum and the Lace Museum sell tickets on the MUVE site.
• Padua, Verona, Treviso, Bassano del Grappa and Ferrara: trains from Venice Santa Lucia; Padua is the closest, Ferrara and Verona the furthest. Fares and times are on Trenitalia. The Scrovegni Chapel in Padua must be booked ahead on the chapel’s official site.
• Chioggia: by bus or, in summer, by boat across the lagoon; check ACTV for both. The fish market is a morning market.
• The Dolomites: best by car from Mestre with a very early start, or with a night in Cortina. Lift times and prices are on each valley’s own site, linked in the Dolomites section above.

The Day-Trip Decision Most People Get Wrong

Most first-time Venice visitors try to see Murano, Burano and Torcello all in one day. Tour companies sell this as a standard package. It is technically possible but practically miserable — you spend most of the day on boats and get about 45 minutes on each island, which is nowhere near enough for Burano or Torcello.

The better approach is to pick one or two islands and give them proper time. Burano on its own deserves a half day — arrive by 09:00, walk the colourful streets before the crowds, have a long seafood lunch, then continue to Torcello for the afternoon. Or skip the islands entirely and take the train to Padua, where the Scrovegni Chapel alone justifies the journey and Prato della Valle is one of the most beautiful squares in Europe.

If you have four or more days in Venice, the best use of a day trip day is the train to Treviso. Thirty minutes, almost no tourists, Prosecco country on the doorstep, and the town that claims tiramisu as its own. You will eat better, spend less, and see a side of the Veneto that most visitors never discover.