Venice in 3 days: day-by-day itinerary and budget
3 days go a long way in Venice if you don't burn them crossing the city end to end. The idea of this plan is simple: one area per day, the essentials in the right order, a restaurant at hand and each day's map. No surprises at the till either: the whole itinerary adds up to ≈150€ in tickets (about 50€/day), mixing paid visits with 6 free ones. Read on for the day-by-day and the tips; whenever you like, make it yours in the planner.
Day 1St Mark's · Rialto and the Grand Canal ≈ 96€ in tickets
Start with St Mark's and Rialto and the Grand Canal. Keep the morning for La Fenice Theatre, Staircase of Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo, Free Walking Tour of Venice, St Mark's Basilica and the afternoon for St Mark's Campanile, Gondola Ride. And to refuel, Rosa Salva.
Day 2Dorsoduro and the Islands ≈ 51€ in tickets
Give this day to Dorsoduro and the Islands. In the morning, Peggy Guggenheim Collection, Murano and Burano Islands; in the afternoon, Gallerie dell'Accademia, Basilica della Salute. For lunch, Al Vecio Marangon.
Day 3Cannaregio and the Ghetto ≈ 3€ in tickets
This day revolves around Cannaregio and the Ghetto. Start with Jewish Ghetto of Venice, Church of Santa Maria dei Miracoli and leave the afternoon for Stroll along Fondamenta della Misericordia. A midday break at Anice Stellato.
Ticket budget, day by day
| Day | Areas | Tickets |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | St Mark's · Rialto and the Grand Canal | ≈ 96€ |
| Day 2 | Dorsoduro and the Islands | ≈ 51€ |
| Day 3 | Cannaregio and the Ghetto | ≈ 3€ |
| Total over 3 days | ≈ 150€ | |
General-admission prices, compiled and reviewed in September 2026; the current price and availability show when you book (check reduced or free rates on each monument's official site). 6 of this plan's stops are free.
Tips for Venice in 3 days
The trick in Venice is to get away from St Mark's: the prettiest and cheapest corners are in Cannaregio and Dorsoduro, not in the square. Book the Basilica and the Doge's Palace to skip the queues, and take the vaporetto along the Grand Canal at least once, it's the best route in the city. Get lost on purpose down the alleys: here getting lost is the plan. Eat cichetti (Venetian tapas) in a bacaro and avoid the restaurants with tourist menus by the famous bridges. And rise early, because by mid-morning the cruise ships fill the centre.
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Frequently asked questions
Is 3 days enough for Venice?
Yes: 3 days cover the essentials of Venice without racing. Short on time? Start with St Mark's Basilica, Doge's Palace, Gondola Ride; and with one extra day, nearby day trips fit in.
How much does it cost to see Venice in 3 days?
Following this itinerary you pay around 150€ per person in tickets over 3 days (about 50€/day), excluding transport, meals and accommodation. 6 of the 16 stops are free.
What can't you miss in Venice?
The essentials: St Mark's Basilica, Doge's Palace, Gondola Ride.
Can I personalise this Venice itinerary?
Of course — it's a starting point, not a fixed plan. In the planner you change days, budget or activities and the itinerary rebuilds instantly, with map and tickets. Free, no sign-up.
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📖 Looking for the full guide? What to see in Venice · 📊 How much does it cost to see a city in a day?