Venice is undeniably magical, and spending a few extra days in the city is a great way to get to know the surrounding regions. Having visited Venice many times, I’ve had the chance to explore its nearby gems and discover some truly unforgettable day trips. Luckily, there are plenty of wonderful places just a short train ride away.
Whether you’re craving a taste of Italy’s sparkling Prosecco hills, a visit to the foothills of the Alps, a walk through a Medieval city, or a day around Italy’s largest lake, there are plenty of amazing options to choose from.
All of these destinations are within a couple of hours from Venice and are reachable by public transportation – no need to rent a car!
Here are the 15 best day trips from Venice, Italy.
Best Day Trips from Venice
Murano, Burano, & Torcello
Travel time by vaporetto: 15 – 45 minutes
The islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello make for an easy day trip from Venice. Located just a quick vaporetto ride from Venice, Murano is known for its beautiful glass and Burano is home to colorful houses and traditional lace.
Torcello is quieter and less visited and has a wonderful church with the most incredible Byzantine mosaics.
For a complete guide on what to see, do, and how to get there, check out my day trip guide to these islands in the Venetian Lagoon.
Getting There: Take the vaporetto (water bus) to the islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello. Departures are available from Fondamente Nove or S. Zaccaria in Venice.
Tour Options
The Lido
Travel time by vaporetto: 15 – 35 minutes
If you’re visiting Venice during the summer, a trip to the Lido is a must. While it’s best known as the glamorous host of the Venice Film Festival, the real highlight of this island is its stunning white sandy beaches.
Stretching 12 km (8 miles), the Lido feels like a refreshing garden oasis compared to the bustling streets of Venice. You’ll find a mix of private and public beaches here, perfect for a relaxing escape.
For more details and tips, visit the Lido’s official tourism website. It’s your go-to guide for planning the perfect seaside escape during your time in Venice.
Getting there: Take the vaporetto (water bus) from Saint Mark’s Square to the Lido. Once you arrive, use the local bus to explore the island. To make getting around hassle-free, I recommend purchasing an ACTV day pass, which provides unlimited rides on both water buses and buses throughout the Venetian Lagoon.
READ ALSO: One Day in Venice Itinerary
Verona
Travel time by train: 1.5 hours
Just an hour and a half from Venice by train, Verona is one of Italy’s most romantic cities and a fantastic choice for a day trip. My first visit to Verona was a quick day trip, but I loved it so much that I returned and spent a month exploring the city in depth.
From ancient Roman ruins to breathtaking viewpoints, Verona feels like a place straight out of a storybook. For a full guide to the city’s highlights, check out my post how to spend one day in Verona.
If you’re looking for a quick lunch, grab some freshly made tortelloni from La Bottega della Gina XXL or a delicious focaccia sandwich from La Figaccia. For dinner, don’t miss Trattoria al Pompiere—it’s one of my top picks in Verona.
Getting there: From Venezia Santa Lucia station, it’s a 1.5-hour ride to Verona Porta Nuovo, the city’s main station. From there, it’s a 25-minute walk to the city center, or you can opt for a taxi or bus to save time.
Verona Tour Options
- Verona Highlights Walking Tour: This small group tour takes you around the city with an expert guide.
- Verona Food, Wine & History tour: This is the tour to take if you want a bit of history and a bit of food. You’ll wander through the streets of Verona with a guide learning about the main sights all while sipping and eating your way through the city.
Padua
Travel time by train: 30 – 45 minutes
Located just west of Venice, Padua is one of northern Italy’s hidden gems, filled with rich history, stunning art, and delicious cuisine.
Begin your visit at the Scrovegni Chapel, a 14th-century masterpiece adorned with Giotto’s vibrant frescoes. Be sure to book tickets in advance, especially during busy seasons, as it’s one of Padua’s most popular attractions.
Next, take a stroll around the Prato della Valle, one of the largest squares in Europe and a hub of local life. Nearby, you’ll find the Basilica of Saint Anthony, an important pilgrimage site with beautiful architecture and cloisters.
For a more detailed itinerary, check out my guide to Padua, which includes everything you’ll need to make the most of your day trip from Venice.
Getting there: Take the train from Venice’s main station to Padova. The journey only takes 30-45 minutes.
Padua Tour Options
- Private Walking Tour: During this 2.5 hour walking tour, you’ll learn about the history of Padua and visit the Scrovegni Chapel with a local guide.
- Market tour & Cooking Class Tour: Spend the morning visiting the local markets and cooking a delicious Italian dish with a local during this 5 hour small group tour
Vicenza
Travel time by train: 45 minutes
Nicknamed the “City of Palladio,” Vicenza is renowned for its stunning Renaissance architecture designed by Andrea Palladio. Just 45 minutes from Venice by train, it’s an excellent choice for a day trip.
Spend your time exploring Vicenza’s architectural highlights, including the Teatro Olimpico, Palladio’s masterpiece and the first indoor theater in Europe, and Villa La Rotonda, a Palladian villa that inspired Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello in Virginia.
Vicenza is compact and easy to explore on foot, so you can comfortably see the main sights in a little over a half day.
Getting there: The train from Venice to Vicenza only takes 45 minutes.
Vicenza Tour Options
- Vicenza E-Bike Tour: Explore Vicenza by e-bike with a local guide. You’ll stroll by the city’s main sights while learning about the history. Sounds like the perfect afternoon to us!
- Vicenza Highlight Tour: Visit all of the main sights while learning about the significance and history of Palladio on this tour.
Bassano del Grappa
Travel time by train: 1 hour 15 minutes
Located at the base of the Veneto foothills, Bassano del Grappa is a peaceful escape from the Venice. Just an hour away by train, this quaint town makes for an easy day trip.
Begin your visit in the old town, where cobblestone streets wind between pastel-colored buildings filled with artisan shops, boutiques, and inviting cafes. For a quick breakfast, stop by Colazione in Bottega, a cozy spot for coffee, pastries, or toast.
Housed in a 17th-century palace, book lovers should make time for Libreria Palazzo Roberti, one of the most stunning bookstores you’ll ever visit.
Don’t miss Ponte degli Alpini, the town’s historic wooden bridge designed by Renaissance architect Palladio. Spanning the Brenta River, it offers amazing views of the mountains and the town’s picturesque skyline.
Bassano’s museums are also worth exploring. Visit the Museo Poli Grappa to dive into the town’s distilling history, the Museo Civico to admire Venetian art, or the Ceramics Museum at Palazzo Sturm for its fascinating collection
Getting there: The train ride from Venice to Bassano del Grappa takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Once you arrive, the train station is just a short 7–10-minute walk to the heart of the old town.
READ ALSO: 25 Best Things to do in Venice
Treviso
Travel time by train: 30 minutes
Prosecco, charming canals, and pedestrian streets define Treviso, a delightful city in northern Italy. Just a 30-minute train ride from Venice, Treviso is often overlooked but offers a more relaxed, authentic vibe. With its picturesque canals and quiet streets, it feels like a smaller, more budget-friendly version of Venice without sacrificing charm.
Stroll along the city’s peaceful waterways, such as the Buranelli Canal, lined with porticoes, willow trees, and elegant wrought-iron bridges. For a different perspective, take a walk along the medieval walls that encircle the old town for scenic views.
The Piazza dei Signori is the lively heart of Treviso, perfect for people-watching while sipping a glass of Prosecco at a local bar. Food lovers should make a stop at Le Beccherie, the birthplace of tiramisu, or sample this iconic Italian dessert at many of the other excellent restaurants in town.
Getting there: Book your train tickets to Treviso Centrale. The train ride is quick and only takes 30 minutes each way.
Treviso Tour Options:
- Prosecco Hills Tour from either Venice or Treviso: If you’re a fan of Prosecco, this tour is a must. Departing from either Venice or Treviso, it takes you to the scenic hills surrounding Treviso for an unforgettable day of wine tasting and learning about the region’s sparkling wine production.
- Treviso Walking Tour: Discover Treviso’s historic center on a guided walking tour. Spend a couple of hours exploring the city’s canals, piazzas, and medieval walls with a local.
Trieste
Travel time by train: 2 hours
A port city along the Adriatic coast, Trieste is known for its grand squares, fresh seafood, Roman antiquities, and old-world coffee houses. Just a 2-hour train ride from Venice, it’s best to start your day early to make the most of this fascinating destination.
Trieste is a coffee lover’s paradise, being the birthplace of Illy and home to numerous Austrian-style cafes, a nod to its Austro-Hungarian heritage. Start your visit at one of the iconic spots like Caffè San Marco, Caffè degli Specchi, or Antico Caffè Torinese.
Next, step back in time with a visit to the ancient Roman amphitheater, followed by Castello di San Giusto, a 15th-century fortress offering panoramic views of the city and coastline. Art enthusiasts will enjoy the Museo Revoltella, showcasing 19th- and 20th-century art, and the serene Villa Revoltella Park.
Stroll through the expansive Piazza Unità d’Italia, one of Europe’s largest waterfront squares, and explore Trieste’s own Grand Canal. While it’s less dramatic than Venice’s canals, it’s still a lovely spot to wander. Be sure to end your visit with a traditional meal at one of the city’s renowned restaurants.
Getting there: To save time, choose the faster 2-hour train route from Venice to Trieste rather than the slower 3-hour option. Aim to arrive between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM to make the most of your day.
Trieste Tour Options
- Private Trieste Walking Tour – Spend 2.5 hours with a knowledgeable private guide exploring Trieste on foot. This tour offers a deep dive into the city’s history, taking you to its iconic landmarks.
Bologna
Travel time by train: 1.5 – 2 hours
Bologna, the capital of Italy’s Emilia Romagna region, lies just south of Venice and is one of my favorite cities in Italy. I’ve spent many months exploring its streets, flavors, and culture, and it’s a place that never fails to impress.
Known as the “food capital of Italy,” Bologna is celebrated for its exceptional cuisine. The city’s warmth is reflected not only in its hearty dishes but also in its orange-hued medieval buildings. From freshly made pasta to rich sauces, like ragu, the food here is truly unforgettable.
For a detailed itinerary, check out my One Day in Bologna guide. I also have dedicated guides to the best restaurants and must-try foods to help you make the most of your visit.
Getting there: Take the train to Bologna Centrale. The journey takes just 1.5 to 2 hours, so catch an early morning train to maximize your day in this incredible city.
Bologna Tour Options
- Bologna History Tour: On this 3-hour historical walking tour, your guide will take you to not only the main sights in Bologna but also some of the city’s hidden gems.
- Bologna Walking Tour: This 2-hour walking tour takes you around the city center to Bologna’s top highlights. It’s also the most affordable tour option available!
- Bologna Food Tour: In our opinion, the best way to experience Bologna is to eat your way through it. On this 4-hour food tour, you’ll taste your way through the city sampling some of the most well-known dishes from the region.
Lake Garda
Travel time by train: 1 hour 45 minutes
This is one of the more ambitious day trips from Venice, and if you have the time, I highly recommend spending a couple of nights at Lake Garda.
However, not everyone has that luxury when traveling, so a day trip is a great way to experience Italy’s largest lake. Start by taking the train to Peschiera del Garda, a charming town on the southern end of the lake.
From here, you can catch a ferry to nearby towns. Keep in mind that traveling to the far end of the lake can take a few hours, so stick to closer stops to make the most of your time. Here’s a map of the ferry routes to help plan your trip.
I also recommend visiting Sirmione, just 10 minutes by train from Peschiera del Garda. This picturesque lakeside village is known for Scaliger Castle, a medieval fortress, and the Grotte di Catullo, an impressive Roman archaeological site.
Getting there: Take the train from Venice to Peschiera del Garda. The journey takes 1 hour and 45 minutes, and it’s about a 15-minute walk from the station to the town center.
Alternatively, you can start in Sirmione. Take the train to Desenzano del Garda-Sirmione, then hop on bus line LN034 to the castle. The bus ride takes about 30 minutes, and tickets can be purchased directly onboard.
Lake Garda Tour Options
- Sunset Boat Tour in Sirmione: Enjoy a beautiful 45-minute sunset cruise around the Sirmione peninsula.
- Lugana Wine Tour With Private Panoramic Boat : This is a full-day, private wine tour and boat ride around Lake Garda with a local guide.
READ ALSO: 25 Best Restaurants in Venice
Milan
Travel time by train: 2 – 2.5 hours
Take the high-speed train from Venice, and in just 2 to 2.5 hours, you’ll arrive in Milan. Known as Italy’s business and fashion capital, Milan is a city I’ve come to love after many visits.
With just one day, you can cover the city’s main highlights, including the iconic Duomo, the elegant Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece, The Last Supper. Be sure to book tickets in advance for The Last Supper, as it’s a popular attraction.
Don’t miss the chance to enjoy Milan’s exceptional cuisine. Some of my favorite restaurants include Antica Trattoria della Pesa, Trippa Milano, and Stendhal Milano.
For a detailed plan, check out my One Day in Milan itinerary.
Getting there: Catch an early train and aim to arrive in Milan no later than 9:00 or 9:30 AM. The high-speed train takes 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on your departure time. Make sure to book your tickets to Milano Centrale station.
Milan Tour Options
- Milan Duomo & The Last Supper Guided Tour: This tour is the best way to experience both Da Vinci’s Last Supper and the famous Milan Duomo. With skip-the-line tickets and an expert guide, we’d recommend this tour to anyone visiting Milan.
- History tour & The Last Supper: On this 3-hour guided tour, you’ll walk the streets of Milan with a guide while learning about the city’s history. Additionally, entrance to the The Last Supper is included.
- Full-day Milan Tour: If you’re looking for the best full-day tour of Milan, this is for you. Not only will you visit the Milan Duomo and The Last Supper, but you’ll also visit some of the city’s hidden gems.
Prosecco Wine Tour
Just north of Venice lies Italy’s famous Prosecco wine region, the birthplace of the light, sparkling wine loved around the world. A visit here offers the perfect opportunity to meet local producers and enjoy Prosecco straight from the source.
The easiest way to experience this region as a day trip from Venice is by booking a tour. Here are a couple of excellent options:
- A sparkling day in the Prosecco Hills from Venice: Visit two wineries with a wine tasting included and enjoy a 4-course lunch at a traditional osteria.
- Semi-private Prosecco Wine Tour from Venice: This small-group tour includes 2 wine tastings at local wineries and a light lunch.
Chioggia
Travel time by bus: 1 hour 15 minutes
Chioggia, otherwise known as “Little Venice,” is a small coastal town located just across the Venice lagoon. The best way to spend your day in Chioggia is to wander its streets, pop into cafes and boutiques, and simply enjoy the slower pace.
Be sure to cross the Ponte di Vigo, a stunning 17th-century stone bridge, visit the fish market (Mercato Ittico al Minuto), and step inside the Chioggia Cathedral. The Clock Tower Museum is also worth a visit.
Getting there: Reaching Chioggia isn’t the easiest, but it’s manageable. Take a bus from Venice to Chioggia with a transfer at Mestre Via Torino, followed by the 85 bus. This journey takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Alternatively, opt for the more scenic route by taking a ferry to the Lido, a bus, and then another ferry to Chioggia. This is definitely the more scenic route but it takes a bit longer. Use Google Maps to find the best route for your schedule.
Chioggia Tour Options
- Chiogga by Boat – Take a 1.5 hour scenic boat ride around Chiogga with a local guide.
Florence
Travel time by train: 2 hours 15 minutes
I hesitated to include Florence on this list, because it deserves at least two days to explore fully. However, if you’re short on time and want to see the city’s highlights, a day trip to Florence is doable with some careful planning.
The high-speed train from Venice to Florence takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes. Aim to arrive in Florence by 9:00 AM to maximize your day.
Start your visit at the Accademia Gallery to admire Michelangelo’s iconic David. Next, head to the Duomo to walk around its stunning exterior and take in its architectural details. From there, visit the Palazzo Vecchio and climb the Arnolfo Tower for breathtaking views of the city—be sure to book your tickets in advance.
For lunch, grab a panini along Via dei Neri. In the afternoon, visit the Uffizi Gallery to see masterpieces by Botticelli and Leonardo da Vinci. End your day with a stroll across the Ponte Vecchio, then head to the Ponte Santa Trinita for a perfect view back at the iconic bridge.
If the Uffizi isn’t on your list, I suggest spending your afternoon exploring Palazzo Pitti and the Boboli Gardens instead.
Tip: It is imperative that you book your tickets for all of these sights at least a month in advance. 2-3 months in advance is more ideal, as time slots fill up quickly. Without reservations, you’ll end up waiting in line for hours and won’t have time to see it all.
Getting there: Take the high-speed train from Venice Santa Lucia station to Firenze S.M. Novella station. From the station, it’s a 15-minute walk to the Accademia Gallery. Arrive in Florence by 9:00 AM and leave after 8:00 PM. If you get dinner, plan on leaving around 10:00 PM.
Florence Tour Options
- Small group Florence art tour: Visit both the Uffizi and Accademia galleries on this guided half-day tour.
- Florence sunset walking tour: Sample local foods and wines while enjoying a walking tour around Florence.
Ferrara
Travel time by train: 1 – 1.5 hours
Ferrara, a hidden gem in Italy’s Emilia Romagna region, is a medieval city dating back to the 5th century BC.
Begin your visit in the historic center at Este Castle, a medieval fortress surrounded by a moat. Inside, you’ll find frescoed ceilings and exhibits on the powerful Este family, who ruled Ferrara for over 300 years. Next, head to Palazzo dei Diamanti, a Renaissance marvel with 8,500 diamond-shaped stones adorning its facade. The palace also hosts rotating exhibitions—check the schedule to see what’s on during your visit.
Don’t miss the Cathedral of Ferrara, a stunning 12th-century church with a blend of Romanesque and Gothic interiors. Another must-see is the Rotondo Foschini, a unique elliptical courtyard hidden within the local theater—perfect for a photo op.
Before leaving, be sure to try Ferrara’s signature dish, Cappellacci di Zucca Ferraresi, pumpkin-stuffed pasta shaped like little hats. You’ll find it on menus at local favorites like Cusina e Butega.
For more tips and attractions, read my complete guide to Ferrara and discover why this city is one of Emilia Romagna’s best-kept secrets.
Getting there: The direct train from Venice to Ferrara only takes between 1-1.5 hours.
Ferrara Tour Options
- Ferrara Private Walking Tour: Spend a few hours with a local guide visiting all of the main sights while learning about the city’s historic past.
Italy Train Travel
Traveling by train is the easiest and most convenient option for most day trips from Venice. I’ve traveled by train all throughout Italy and have found it to be an affordable, accessible, and clean way to explore the country.
However, keep in mind that delays are fairly common. While I’ve never encountered a significant delay, it’s something to be aware of when planning.
Italy offers two main types of trains: regional trains and Frecciarossa (high-speed) trains. Frecciarossa trains are more expensive but can save you valuable time, especially for longer trips.
Venezia Santa Lucia is the city’s main railway station, located about a 30-minute walk from St. Mark’s Square or 20-minute vaporetto ride. When booking your train tickets, be sure to select Venezia Santa Lucia—not Venezia Mestre, which is located across the lagoon on the mainland.
How to Book Train Tickets in Italy
You can book train tickets either online in advance or at the train station. The official website for booking is Trenitalia.com.
For the best prices, we recommend booking tickets at least three weeks in advance, particularly for longer journeys. For regional trains or short trips (under an hour), you can often book tickets a day before or on the day of travel, with minimal price difference.
Tips for Train Travel in Italy
- Book Early: For the best prices, try to book your tickets at least three weeks in advance for longer trips.
- Use the Trenitalia App: The app is convenient for checking timetables, booking tickets, and monitoring delays, all from your phone.
- Know the City Names: Italian city names are used on the Trenitalia website and app. For example, Florence is Firenze and Venice is Venezia.
Where to Stay in Venice
We recently stayed at Hotel Flora, a charming boutique hotel in the San Polo district, and absolutely loved it. If you’re after a laid-back, authentic hotel experience, I highly recommend it. Plus, it’s only a 10-minute walk from St. Mark’s Square.
Another favorite is Cima Rosa, a boutique hotel in the local Santa Croce neighborhood, perfect for a quieter stay. For a high-end option, consider Hotel Danieli, just steps away from the Doge’s Palace, or Il Palazzo Experimental in the Dorsoduro district.
More information for your trip to Italy
ITALY TRAVEL PLANNING GUIDE
Italy Travel Insurance – We always get travel insurance before all of our trips for peace of mind. Check out Travel Insurance Master to find the best plan for you.
Italy Rental Cars – We’ve rented a car in Italy many times, and it’s definitely the most convenient way to get around the countryside. We rented our car through Discover Cars (our go-to rental agency), which helps you find the best rates no matter where you are traveling.
Italy Phone Plans – If your phone plan does not offer free coverage in Italy, then we suggest getting an eSIM. We used Airalo during our trip to Italy, and we had fantastic coverage the entire time. It’s easy to download and you can even top up via the app if needed.
Italy Hotels – Wondering where to book your accommodations for Italy? We’ve been reserving all of our hotels through Booking for years. Their messaging tool makes it easy to communicate with the hotels, and there are endless options to choose from.