The Perfect 48 Hours in Venice, Italy

Visit Doge's Palace and the Bridge of Sighs. Take in the incredible Venetian Gothic architecture throughout the palace. This building served as the political and administrative center of the Venetian Republic for centuries. Doges were elected rulers of Venice and this palace holds government offices, courtrooms and prisons. The famous Bridge of Sighs is located inside the palace and if you blink, you’ll miss it as you don’t even realize you are crossing the bridge from the inside. It connects the palace to the prison and as legend has it, it is the last time prisoners caught a glimpse of Venice before being incarcerated. There are amazing art masterpieces throughout the palace as well. I would recommend spending about two hours to visit the entire palace. You can pre-purchase tickets or purchase them at the door.

The Library at San Marco Square is one of Italy’s oldest public libraries and its collection reflects the city’s role as the center of trade, scholarship and artistic innovation during the Renaissance era and beyond. Don’t miss this stunning library during your trip to Venice!

The Original Glass Factory on Murano Island is a fascinating experience. For only five Euro (at the time of writing), you can see glassblowing at its finest. We were blown away (no pun intended) by their technique and quick creativity during our tour. Murano is a 20-50-minute water taxi ride depending on where you are in Venice, or a private taxi can certainly be arranged for you.

VIsit the Venetian cemetery island. This peaceful place only needs about 20 minutes of your time. You can visit it after your visit to Murano, but it is certainly worth a peek.

Visit the Basilica di Sanata Maria Della Salute and climb to the top of Campanile di San Marco for a fantastic view of the entire city. The ornate church offers jaw-dropping views, while climbing to the top is an experience like no other.

Take a gondola ride! No trip to Venice is complete without a gondolier. There are tons located throughout the city — however, I found the most relaxing times were in the small canals instead of the grand canal.

Do some shopping on the Rialto Bridge and take some iconic pictures.

Eat gelato! No Italian trip is complete without tasting some local gelato. Look for the round tins with lids for a more authentic experiencem— but it is all delicious!

Don’t sleep on the breakfast buffet at The Hilton Stucky Hotel. It is a boat ride away from the mainland of Venice, but their overflow of food could reach the main island. Think chocolate fountains, fruit, pastries, omelets, pancakes, desert, mimosas and so much more!

Drink a bellini from the home of the bellini at Harry’s Bar. Prepare for a wait — it isn’t the largest restaurant in Venice — and keep your eyes peeled for the tiny door, but Google Maps isn’t wrong!

Brunch Café has an amazing breakfast menu, but be prepared to wait in line to get a table. It has an option for everyone in your party.

Caffè Florian has an amazing lunch/apertif atmosphere with live music on the famous Piazza San Marco. The food is limited but delicious and the drinks are spectacular. And no, they don’t frown on you if you order a cappuccino in the afternoon.

El Magazen has typical Venetian food and is off the beaten path a bit.

M'Art in the Venice Venice Hotel is worth a lunch or aperitif to experience an icon in the city of Venice.

Visit Amo for coffee or cocktails near the Rialto Bridge.

Zanze XVI has an incredible tasting menu. Be sure to book reservations well in advance.

Caffè Lavena is one of the oldest coffee shops in Venice.

Trattoria alle Burchielle is a family-run Italian spot within the city.