Lindsay Welcome to Part Two, the final chapter of the perfect short trip to Venice, as I wrap up my family adventure in this unforgettable city. If you caught Part One, you’ll know we spent our first couple of days wandering quiet canals, discovering hidden corners, and soaking up that classic Venetian magic. If you haven’t read it yet, you can find it HERE, so the whole journey makes sense.
Following two fantastic days in this incredible city, we woke to another beautiful sunny morning and began strolling once again through the lovely, quaint streets of this renowned northern Italian gem. It was the perfect day for exploring some of the most iconic sights, including the famous Rialto Bridge, the striking Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute, the grandeur of St. Mark’s Square, and the magnificent Doge’s Palace. Let’s hop on a gondola and glide straight into the adventure.
Are you subscribed?
Before we dive into Day Three, make sure you’re subscribed so you never miss a new blog update. Subscribing means you’ll be the first to hear about upcoming posts, travel news, and the occasional newsletter (when I have time!). You can also follow along on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter/X for real-time updates from my adventures. Come explore the globe with me, one day trip or weekend getaway at a time!
This post may contain affiliate links, which means that when you click on a product I recommend through my links, I may earn a small commission at no cost to you. For more information, you can read my Privacy Policy.
DAY 3 – Exploring Without a Plan
On our third day in this enchanting city, we were blessed with a pleasantly warm morning, the kind of day that’s ideal for the perfect short trip to Venice. It was slightly overcast, but still perfect weather for getting out and exploring. The plan for today was simply to have no plan. We wanted to soak up the sights and see where we ended up. Unbeknownst to us at the time, our wanderings were leading us toward the iconic Rialto Bridge, which I was eager to experience up close, having only seen it from the vantage point of a gondola the day before.
A City Icon
As we meandered through the backstreets, we passed delightful Italian cafés with irresistible aromas wafting through the air. Pretty townhouses with washing strung high above the laneways added to the city’s charm. Seeing everyday laundry on display gave such a real, authentic feel to local life. Colourful buildings stood alongside grander, more classical ones, all connected by narrow, romantic passageways. My favourite architectural details were the beautiful arabesque windows that give these buildings their unmistakable style.
After admiring the buildings around us, we eventually arrived at the renowned Rialto Bridge. Let me start by saying the Rialto Bridge is undeniably incredible. It is one of the most famous sights in the city and a true architectural wonder. But I do have one small pet peeve when it comes to iconic landmarks. Sometimes the people responsible for preserving these places seem to forget about aesthetics. I was so excited to finally see the bridge up close… but my enthusiasm dipped when I spotted a huge, brightly coloured advertisement draped across the side. Anyone visiting that day, or in the weeks before, had to settle for a view of this stunning bridge partially hidden by a giant banner. It was such a strange clash of timeless beauty and modern advertising.
Thankfully, the bridge itself more than makes up for it. Built in the late 1500s during the Renaissance, it was designed to connect the districts of San Polo and San Marco. There are around 100 bridges across the city, and this one proudly stands out as a masterpiece. Made entirely from stone, with elegant archways and beautiful detailing, it commands attention. When you reach the midpoint, you are treated to some of the best views along the Grand Canal, so definitely have your camera ready. Just be prepared to dodge a few eager photobombers if you want a photo with the incredible canal behind you.
The secret spot no one knows about!
After crossing the bridge, I noticed a small ledge to the right where, surprisingly, no one was standing. It gave me the perfect spot to capture some uninterrupted photos. This side was also a little more visually pleasing. Even though a large black poster still hung down the middle, it created an interesting contrast and looked much better than the brightly coloured one on the opposite side. Fingers crossed your view will be completely banner-free when you visit.
Quirky Corners of San Polo
We spent the rest of the afternoon continuing our leisurely exploration, happily getting lost for a while. Our wandering led us into a beautiful square, where we stepped inside an exquisite mask shop. From the doorway, you could see masks favoured by famous celebrities, and a striking double-headed bronze mask hung right beside the entrance. I really wish I could remember the shop’s name to share it with you, but sadly, it has slipped my mind.
I loved strolling around this pocket of San Polo. The square had the vibe of a miniature St. Mark’s Square, with striking buildings, colourful townhouses, and charming wooden shutters. One building in particular caught my eye because it looked like it once had a Juliet balcony on the second floor. Now, there’s just a door that opens to nowhere. I’m convinced it once belonged to a wealthy aristocrat who used that door to toss out anyone who displeased him.
As usual, we eventually ended up back in St. Mark’s Square. It was exceptionally crowded that day—definitely the busiest we’d seen. I didn’t mind too much though. I was more focused on wandering and expertly dodging the crowds with an ice cream in hand, soaking in all the intricate details of this captivating city.
Soon we found ourselves strolling along the Riva degli Schiavoni, the waterfront promenade. Along the way, you’ll pass one of the gondola service stations, which is especially lovely at night. It’s the perfect spot to pause, look out over the water, and admire that classic postcard-worthy scene of gondolas bobbing on the lagoon. Keep walking along the waterfront and you’ll pass plenty of restaurants. We ate here most evenings because the views were unbeatable and the food was delicious. I treated myself to pasta and bread every single night. But honestly, isn’t that exactly why you come to Italy?
Oh Sigh!
Our walk eventually led us to a chance discovery, the Bridge of Sighs. The name alone tugs at your heartstrings, and the story behind it is just as moving. As prisoners were escorted to jail, they would catch their final glimpse of the city through the small windows of the bridge and let out a sigh, knowing it was their last moment of freedom. The only downside to arriving here was the crowd. It took a little patience for people to move on, as it is such a popular photo spot, but it was absolutely worth the wait.
Day 4 – Rainy Adventures
On Day 4, as I woke up, a tinge of sadness crept in because this was our last full day in Venice. It seemed as though the weather was determined to mirror my mood, as it was raining. In fact, the rain persisted throughout most of the day. Boo! Isn’t Venice already surrounded by enough water? When the rain briefly eased, dark clouds still loomed above us, so it was clear it was only a short break from the showers. This meant we were in for an indoor kind of day. Fortunately, that suited us just fine, as there were still a few places we wanted to visit.
Even with the rain, Day 4 proved that the perfect short trip to Venice isn’t about perfect weather, but about soaking up history, culture, and unforgettable moments.
Our plan was to visit the grand white church we’d spied from across the water near the Palazzo Ducale, known as the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute. As we left our hotel, there was a hint of more rain to come. The sky had taken on a sombre shade of grey, and distant rumbles of thunder echoed, almost as if the heavens were playfully warning us: “I’m coming for you!”
Discovering Musical Treasures
Nevertheless, as we navigated the narrow, winding streets, with their coppery hues and heavy clouds overhead, it felt like we had stepped back in time to the Renaissance era.
We eventually arrived at a charming little square and noticed a museum housed inside an impressive stone building called Museo della Musica. It felt like the perfect time to take a break and explore, and the fact that entry was free made the decision even easier.
The museum is set inside an old, deconsecrated church. This city has been renowned for its music since as far back as the Middle Ages, once teeming with theatres and homes filled with musical instruments. It is worth stepping inside just to admire the architecture alone. The beautiful stone floor, decorated with a striking red and stone-coloured chequered pattern, immediately caught my eye, as did the alcoves scattered around the walls. There are also tell-tale signs of its former life as a church, including the impressive altar, now used to display cellos. The collection itself is lovely, with exquisitely decorated violins and mandolins on display.
Dodging the Downpour
When we left the museum, I fully expected the rain to be pouring down, but luckily it had yet to begin. That relief did not last long. As we crossed the Ponte dell’Accademia, looking out over the grey skies above the Grand Canal, a few drops began to fall. Even under gloomy skies, the view was still stunning.
Within moments, the drizzle turned into a torrential downpour, forcing us to dash into a nearby café to escape the rain. It wasn’t all bad though, as it gave us the perfect excuse to sample some delicious local pastries. Mmm. It also got me thinking about the city’s frequent floods, considering it experiences them every year.
Once we had finished our treats, it was time to face the rain again. I could not help but feel a little disappointed. At the time, I was living in Manchester, where rain was an everyday occurrence, and all I had hoped for here was a glimpse of blue sky. The weather had also brought a noticeable drop in temperature, and it was starting to feel quite chilly, which was far from ideal considering I was wearing shorts.
An Unfortunate Encounter
Eventually, like a beacon in the storm, we reached the steps of the basilica. As we ascended them, I found myself at the front of our group. I was the first to step across the threshold, and when I turned around, I noticed an elderly lady approaching us. She asked if we had any spare change, but unfortunately, we didn’t. In response, she began shouting and then abruptly turned around and spat in our direction. Oh dear. Fortunately, the rain likely washed away any potential germs. We took shelter in the doorway and ended up chuckling about this crazy encounter. What made it even better was that this is another spot where entry is absolutely free.
I absolutely love the story behind this church. During the 1630s, when the city was ravaged by a devastating outbreak of plague, the Venetian government turned directly to Madonna in a desperate plea for help to combat the disease wreaking havoc around them. It seems their prayers were answered, because this magnificent basilica came to be. When it came to constructing the church, no expense was spared, and it’s easy to see why. The basilica boasts a magnificent central dome, adorned with numerous windows that flood the interior with radiant light. Speaking of windows, some have a distinctive design reminiscent of bottle tops, which adds a unique and rather cool touch. Still, it’s hard to imagine having one as your only view to the outside world, as you wouldn’t be able to see much at all.
Don’t forget to take a moment to look down as you step inside. It may seem like a small detail, but trust me, the tiled floor deserves your attention. It’s adorned with an intricate pattern of black, red, and white tiles that can almost trick your eyes into seeing a three-dimensional effect in some areas.
When it comes to any basilica, you can’t simply stroll past the altar without pausing for a closer look. This one, in particular, is truly captivating. It features sculptures of the Madonna of Good Health, depicting people seeking her help during the plague. It’s quite moving to think that, as I write this, the world has only recently come through a pandemic that affected so many innocent lives. No wonder they built this remarkable church in her honour. It must have provided them with the strength they needed to endure. We can all relate to the stress and anxiety that comes with living through a pandemic, can’t we?
Also, don’t miss the small museum nearby, which houses some extraordinary pieces by Titian. Just keep in mind that the museum is closed on Sundays.
As a heads-up, finding a public toilet in this area was pretty much mission impossible. I swear I must have wandered around in circles before finally stumbling upon one near the bridge. I got completely drenched in the process and ended up spending the rest of the day in soggy clothes. Silly me.
Later, we hopped on the ferry back towards St. Mark’s Square and docked nearby. I can’t say it was an enjoyable ride, though, as the sea was quite rough. Thankfully, it was only a short trip.
Exploring with Mum
We were soon back on dry land and went our separate ways to explore different corners of the city. I was lucky enough to spend a wonderful afternoon with my mum, a memory I’ll always treasure. Both of us were itching to explore the Doge’s Palace, having admired it from the outside countless times. Even better, it offered a cosy escape from the relentless rain. Spending that afternoon together felt like a reminder that the perfect short trip to Venice is as much about who you travel with as where you go.
The Correr Museum
So off we went to the ticket office in St. Mark’s Square, where we bought tickets not only for the Doge’s Palace but also for the Correr Museum. Conveniently, the museum was just a short climb up an impressively grand neoclassical staircase right near the ticket office. From the various windows scattered throughout, you’re treated to some truly breathtaking views of St. Mark’s Square in all its splendour.
We hadn’t initially planned to visit the museum, but it turned out to be a delightful surprise. Even without its artworks, the building itself is a marvel to behold. I later learned that Empress Elisabeth of Austria once called this place home. The opulent rooms are adorned with neoclassical design elements, and it’s impossible to miss the magnificent Murano glass chandeliers. Over the years, the building has served as offices and residences for prominent Venetians, hosted the Habsburg court during visits to the city, and even became the residence of the King of Italy.
I have to admit, the museum felt a little perplexing to navigate, but it more than made up for it with its exquisitely decorated rooms. You could almost overlook the art on display entirely, so captivating were the surroundings. A few pieces did catch my eye though, particularly the sculptures by Antonio Canova, a magnificent chest of drawers in the royal apartments filled with the Queen’s jewellery, and the antiquities room, which houses treasures from the city’s rich past. It’s safe to say this is the only museum where I found myself more engrossed by the setting than the art itself.
Inside the museum, we also discovered works by a local Venetian painter, Giuseppe Borsato. The centrepiece on the main staircase, painted by Sebastiano Santi in the 1800s, vividly depicts the glory of Neptune, a very fitting subject in such a water-bound city.
The Most Beautiful Palace
Now, let me introduce you to the most beautiful place I’ve ever had the pleasure of visiting in Venice, the Doge’s Palace. If you are planning the perfect short trip to Venice, this is one place that absolutely deserves a spot on your itinerary. Seeing photos of it or brief glimpses on TV simply won’t do it justice. I don’t want to hype it up too much, but trust me, it’s absolutely stunning.
Conveniently situated on the opposite side of the square, right next to the magnificent St. Mark’s Basilica, this place is a true gem. We’d heard tales of long queues that could wind around the block, but the gloomy weather had done its part in deterring the crowds. Few people were braving the fine drizzle that had replaced the earlier downpour, but my mum and I were seasoned veterans when it came to rainy weather.
The building’s exterior is a delight, adorned in a beautiful blend of salmon pink and cream tiles that create a striking visual contrast. Upon stepping through the medieval-looking doorway with its Gothic accents, you’re greeted by a scene that feels straight out of a historical drama. Above the entrance, a priest appears to be locked in a standoff with a winged lion, as if establishing who’s in charge here.
Inside the Doge’s Palace
As you venture further inside, you’ll find yourself in an elegant courtyard that feels worlds away from the bustle outside. Creamy white marble meets intricate stonework, featuring lions, carved heads, vine leaves, and roses, or maybe strings of garlic. The jury is still out on that one. The marble is scattered with bursts of colour, including lilac, orange, and blue, adding an extra layer of richness to an already breathtaking scene. To your left, a grand pair of staircases immediately catches your eye, guarded by statues of none other than Apollo and Neptune.
We decided to ascend the golden marvel known as the Scala d’Oro, which boasts a 24 carat patterned ceiling crafted by the renowned San Savino. It is nothing short of magnificent. The ceiling is a masterpiece in its own right, adorned with traditional Venetian masks, graceful women, cherubs, and intricate floral motifs, all beautifully framed by stonework featuring fruits and flowers.
The staircase leads directly into the historic Council Chambers, where the Doge of Venice once oversaw the city’s affairs. Many of the rooms on this floor are an absolute joy to explore, and you will likely find yourself looking up more often than not. The stucco ceiling work is truly awe inspiring. My personal favourite has to be the Compass Room. I have always been a bit of a map nerd, especially when it comes to old maps that still carry the names of long lost countries and cities.
By this point, the sun had made a welcome return, bathing the city in a soft, golden light. Since it was our last day, my mum and I decided to take things slowly and enjoy a leisurely wander. Before long, we found ourselves at a bustling café that caught our attention. What surprised us most was how reasonably priced everything was. They offered an enticing selection of pasta dishes and sandwiches, but with dinner only a couple of hours away, we opted for a small dessert each instead. I chose a berry cheesecake, while my mum went for a classic crème brûlée. Coffee was a must, and it was absolutely delicious. We couldn’t resist swapping bites, as we both enjoy indulging a little. It was a lovely pause in the day and a special moment to spend together.
A Venetian Feast
That evening, we were in for a real treat. On our final night in Venice, my father-in-law took us to a restaurant called De Pisi. A few nights earlier, Zac had been eyeing off their seafood platter, but it came with a hefty price tag and was designed for two people, so we had reluctantly passed it up. This time, however, being our farewell night, Zac decided it was time to go all out.
It turned out to be an unforgettable experience. The restaurant was filled with stunning Murano glass, and even the restrooms were unexpectedly elegant. And then there was the food. It was incredible. My fish was expertly filleted right at our table, and given Zac’s Aussie roots, he was thoroughly impressed by the whole performance. I will admit to a tiny pang of regret that I did not squeeze in one last pasta and bread feast, but this meal felt truly special. To make the evening even more magical, we watched the sun set with a view of the Basilica della Salute, the same place where we had our rather unfortunate encounter earlier that day. Still, it all became part of the story.
After dinner, you can probably guess where we headed next. Straight to St. Mark’s Square. Zac must have been in particularly high spirits, as he impulsively bought a cheap plastic laser pen from one of the street vendors. Strangely enough, that laser pen never resurfaced after that night, but it did provide a few minutes of pure joy.
After soaking up the final strains of classical music drifting across the square, we slowly wandered back to our hotel. Saying goodbye to Venice felt bittersweet. Italy had well and truly managed to steal a little piece of my heart.
On our final morning, we chose to take a water taxi to the airport. The 20-minute ride was both scenic and convenient, and the perfect way to say arrivederci. Gliding past the city one last time from the water felt like the most fitting farewell.
Thanks so much for reading about my adventures in Venice. Saving the best for last with the Doge’s Palace was truly epic, and it was a great way to end the perfect short trip to Venice. Even with the stress of keeping my mum from getting lost (so easy to do!) and the less-than-ideal weather on our final day, I genuinely loved every moment in this gorgeous city.
If Venice is on your travel wish list, booking your attraction tickets in advance can make such a difference, especially for popular sights like the Doge’s Palace. I’ve shared the tours and tickets I personally recommend throughout this post to help you make the most of your time here. And if you’d like to keep travelling with me, don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss a new adventure.
So, is Venice calling your name yet? If so, check out these selected tours below to enhance your trip. Be sure to book quick, as many of them sell out in advance!
Still looking for more inspiration for your trip to Italy? Check out more posts by scrolling to the bottom of this page.
Keep scrolling for more posts on Italy and around the world…
