Venice, called “the Serenissima”, was born as a refuge from barbarian invasions.
The inhabitants of the mainland, seeking safety, took refuge in the lagoons, giving life to a unique city in the world, built on stilts. Over the centuries, Venice became a powerful Maritime Republic, dominating the seas and trading with the entire Mediterranean. Its richness and splendor are reflected in the architecture, art and culture that still characterize it today. Venice has experienced periods of great splendor, but also of decline, to the point of becoming today one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world that we suggest you visit.
Here is a possible itinerary to best enjoy your day in Venice from morning to evening starting from Florence.
⚠️IMPORTANT:
Before booking your train, make sure that on the date you have chosen there is no access fee to pay. In 2025 this tax will start from April 18th and you will find all the details, as well as being able to pay the ticket in advance, on the website of the municipality of Venice.
| Means of Transport | Average Travel Time | Details |
| High-Speed Train | 2h 15 min | The best solution. Frecciarossa and Italo trains connect Florence S.M. Novella to Venice Santa Lucia directly. Arriving at Santa Lucia allows you to step directly onto the Grand Canal. Regional trains (with a change in Bologna or Prato) are available but take about 4 hours. |
| Car | Approx. 3 hours | Take the A1 motorway to Bologna, then the A13 towards Padua/Venice. Important: Venice is entirely pedestrian. You must leave your car at Piazzale Roma (very expensive) or the Tronchetto parking island. A cheaper alternative is to park in Venice Mestre and take a 10-minute shuttle train to the lagoon. |
| Bus | 3h 30 min – 4h 30 min | Companies like FlixBus or Itabus offer direct connections. They usually depart from Villa Costanza (reachable via tram line T1 from Florence) or Piazzale Montelungo. They arrive at Venice Tronchetto or Mestre. This is the most budget-friendly option but the most affected by traffic. |
Early afternoon: explore the canals and neighborhoods
- The Bridge of Sighs: this is a suspension bridge that fascinates at first glance. It is said that, in the days of the “Serenissima,” prisoners were led from the prison cells to the Doge’s Palace to be interrogated through this very bridge. As they crossed the bridge, the last rays of sunlight filtering through the windows offered them a last view of the lagoon and the city. Faced with this vision, the prisoners would let out a deep sigh, aware that they might never see the outside world again. Over the centuries, this romantic and melancholy image became so widespread that the bridge was given the name “Bridge of Sighs.”
- Gondola ride: a timeless classic. Book in advance to avoid long waits.
- Rialto Bridge: cross the oldest and most famous bridge in Venice and admire the craft stores.
- Fish Market: the fish market is an extraordinary stop for anyone who wants to take truly unique photos. The colors and extraordinary nature of this market will surprise you.
Evening: quick drink and train back
- Cicchetto before the train: “cicchetto” is a small snack typical of Venetian tradition, often accompanied by a glass of local wine that we recommend you experience. It is an informal and convivial way to savor the authentic flavors of the city.
- Return to Florence: take one of the last trains back to Florence, usually around 7:30 p.m., and savor the atmosphere of this diverse but equally fascinating charme of the city.
Useful tips:
- Buy train ticket in advance: especially during peak season.
- Book the gondola ride: especially if you wish to do it in the evening hours.
- Wear comfortable shoes: you will be walking a lot and, depending on the season, take water-resistant shoes.
What to bring with you:
- camera
- water bottle
- k-way or umbrella (the weather in Venice can change quickly)
Con questa guida, sei pronto a vivere un’esperienza indimenticabile a Venezia!
Inizia prenotando il tuo soggiorno fiorentino.