10 amazing day trips from Venice

Venice is a truly amazing Italian city, but there are a number of incredible places to visit nearby. So if you want to escape the heavy tourist flow in the city, I’d really recommend embarking on one of these day trips from Venice.

Whether you’re after quaint Italian towns, breathtaking lakes or beautiful beaches, I’ve included options for every type of traveller. 

Let’s dive into the best day trips from Venice for an unforgettable Italian getaway.

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1. Murano & Burano

Best for: Window shopping

By vaporetto: 30 minutes

Murano and Burano are two of the most mesmerising islands in Italy. They’re popular for glassmaking and lace making, respectively.

This makes for a perfect day trip from Venice if you’re looking to buy souvenirs and learn more about the local culture. The colourful buildings are also an exceptional backdrop for your Instagram!

Expect to walk a lot, if you’re visiting the two islands. After all, this is the perfect way to take in all the scenery.

You can also see the Museo del Vetro, Museo del Merletto, and the San Martino church. 

Murano and Burano might take less than a day, but they’ll be a memorable part of your Italian gateway!

Book a guided tour of Murano and Burano by private boat.

2. Lake Braies & Dolomites

Best for: Epic scenery and hiking

By car: 3 hours

If you’re in Venice and you have some spare time, you simply have to stop by the Dolomites – in fact, I included it high up in my Europe travel bucket list guide.

For starters, Lago di Braies is a picturesque wonder, ideal for photography, soaking in the sun, picnicking, and romantic boat trips.

Then, hiking in the alpine meadows of the Dolomite mountain range isn’t just for pro hikers, as there are numerous trails for all levels.

But if relaxing is more your thing, the Parco Naturale Paneveggio might be a better option.

Book a Dolomites and Lake Braies day trip from Venice.

3. Lake Garda

Best for: Boat cruises

By train: 1.5 hours

By car: 2.5 hours

Lake Garda is the largest lake in Italy, which means it’s the perfect destination for a day trip. You can explore the area on your own, embarking on water sports or historical sightseeing.

Alternatively, you’ll also find plenty of trips and guided tours, from a boat cruise of Sirmione to canyoning adventure tour.

Keep in mind that most people explore Lake Garda in its entirety over a weekend.

So, if you want your day trip to be a success, I’d recommend picking between the Trentino, Verona, and Brescia provinces.

Discover more of the best lakes in Italy – guide coming soon!

4. Padua

Best for: Sightseeing

By train: 25 minutes

By car: 40 minutes

Padua is a historic city in Northern Italy. It might not be on many trip itineraries, but it’s worth the visit.

At Padua, you can enjoy a walk along Prato della Valle, or visit the numerous historic monuments, including:

• Scrovegni Chapel
• Basilica of St. Anthony
• Orto Botanico Di Padova
• Museo di Sortia della Medicina
• Caffe Pedrocchi

Book a private city walking tour in Padua.

5. Verona

Best for: Romantic getaways

By train: 2 hours

By car: 1 hour 20 minutes

Verona is probably already on your to-visit list if you’re in Venice.

Not only is the city the inspiration for “Romeo and Juliet,” but it’s also full of historical monuments as well as a lively city centre.

Just outside Verona, you can visit some exceptional vineyards in the Valpolicella wine region as well.

If you visit the area during the right time, you might even catch the annual wine exhibition.

6. Vicenza

Best for: Architecture

By train: 2 hours

By car: 1 hour 10 minutes

Italy might have plenty of rich history and natural scenery, but even walking around the streets to enjoy the architecture is worthwhile.

Well, Vicenza is home to Renaissance architecture designed by Andrea Palladio.

If you’re not marvelling at the masterpieces or visiting the palazzi, teatro, or museums, you must enjoy a stroll at Corso Palladio. Here you’ll taste traditional dishes and shop ‘till you drop!

7. Chioggia

Best for: Seaside vibes

By train: 1 hour 10 minutes

By car: 1 hour

Often referred to as Little Venice, Chioggia is a seaside town where you’ll experience authentic Italian seafood, and the once-in-a-lifetime boat tour along the Venetian canals.

Chioggia is also home to one of the most gorgeous sandy beaches in all of Italy.

You’ll find plenty of amenities and restaurants at the Sottomarina beach, so all you have to do is relax and enjoy sunbathing.

8. Trieste

Best for: Culture

By train: 1 hour 45 minutes

By car: 2 hours

Close to the border with Slovenia, Trieste has a unique blend of culture, history, and coastal scenery.

You can visit countless castles, cathedrals, and museums, not to mention the stunning Piazza Unita d’Italia!

I’d recommend joining a walking tour, and don’t miss a romantic stroll down the pier of Molo Audace.

Alternatively, you can also join hiking trips at the rugged terrains of the Karst Plateau or the Grotta Gigante.

9. Ferrara

Best for: Renaissance art

By train: 50 minutes

By car: 1 hour 15 minutes

You can’t visit Italy without dropping by this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The beautiful city of Ferrara has exceptionally well-preserved Renaissance architecture, charming scenery, and unparalleled heritage.

Here are some of the must-see locations in Ferrara:

• Castello Estense
• Palazzo Schifanoia
• Museo Della Cattedrale
• Parco Massari
• City Walls

Book a walking tour of medieval Ferrara.

10. Euganean Hills

Best for: Relaxation

By car: 1 hour

Last but certainly not least, the Euganean Hills are a group of volcanic hills where you can take in the local culture and scenery.

This is the location to go to if you want a laid-back day trip from Venice in the countryside.

You can either enjoy the local cuisine or visit a wellness centre for a much-needed thermal treatment.

The best part about taking a day trip from Venice is that you’ll be introduced to hidden parts of the local culture, away from the hustle and bustle of touristy locations.

Do you have any favourite day trips from Venice? Let me know in the comments below!

If you’re planning a visit to Venice, read my guides before you go:

• 18 top tips for visiting Venice
• 19 best luxury hotels in Venice
• 15 beautiful bars in Venice
• 20 amazing things to do in Venice
• 10 gorgeous boutique hotels in Venice
• Venice or Rome: which Italian city to visit