Venice

Venice is such a magical city, and three days is a perfect amount of time to soak in its charm, history, and, of course, its delicious food and wine. Let’s dive into an ideal itinerary that includes some of the best bacari (wine bars) to try!

Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Venice

Morning:

• Piazza San Marco: Start your day at the iconic St. Mark’s Square. Grab a coffee at Caffè Florian, one of the oldest cafes in the world, and enjoy the view of the basilica.
• Basilica di San Marco: After your coffee, head inside the basilica. Don’t miss the stunning mosaics and the Pala d’Oro.

Lunch:

• Osteria al Bacareto: Just a short walk from the square, this cozy spot is perfect for a quick bite. Try their cicchetti (Venetian tapas) paired with a glass of local wine.

Afternoon:

• Doge’s Palace: Explore the opulent Doge’s Palace and take a stroll across the Bridge of Sighs. The history here is fascinating!
• Rialto Bridge: Walk to the famous Rialto Bridge and enjoy the bustling market atmosphere. Snap some photos and maybe pick up some fresh produce or local snacks.

Evening:

• Bacari Crawl: Start your bacari adventure at Cantina Do Spade, a classic spot with a great selection of wines and cicchetti. Then, head to Osteria Bancogiro for a lovely view of the Grand Canal while sipping on a glass of Prosecco.
• Dinner: For dinner, try Trattoria Al Gatto Nero on Burano Island (if you have time to hop over) for some fresh seafood. If you stay in Venice, Trattoria Da Fiore is a fantastic option.

Day 2: Art and Culture

Morning:

• Accademia Gallery: Start your day with a visit to the Accademia Gallery to see some of the best Venetian art. The collection is stunning!
• Peggy Guggenheim Collection: Just a short walk away, this modern art museum is housed in a beautiful palazzo. The garden is a lovely place to relax.

Lunch:

• Bacareto da Lele: This is a must-visit for a casual lunch. Grab a sandwich or some cicchetti and enjoy it with a glass of wine.

Afternoon:

• Explore Dorsoduro: Wander through the charming streets of the Dorsoduro district. Stop by Campo Santa Margherita, a lively square with shops and cafes.
• Visit a Bacaro: Check out Al Timon, a great spot for a glass of wine and some delicious snacks. The atmosphere is vibrant, especially in the late afternoon.

Evening:

• Dinner: Head to Antiche Carampane for a traditional Venetian dinner. The seafood pasta is a must-try!
• Nightcap: End your day at Cicchetteria Da Luca, a cozy bacaro where you can enjoy a glass of wine and some late-night cicchetti.

Day 3: Islands and Relaxation

Morning:

• Murano and Burano: Take a vaporetto (water bus) to Murano to see the famous glass-making factories. Afterward, head to Burano, known for its colorful houses and lace-making.
• Explore Burano: Stroll through the picturesque streets and take plenty of photos!

Lunch:

• Trattoria al Gatto Nero: If you’re in Burano, this is a fantastic spot for lunch. The risotto is highly recommended!

Afternoon:

• Return to Venice: Head back to Venice and take some time to relax. Maybe do a little shopping or explore some hidden corners of the city.
• Visit a Bacaro: Stop by Bacaro Risorto for a late afternoon drink. It’s a great place to unwind and enjoy the local vibe.

Evening:

• Dinner: For your final dinner, consider Ristorante Da Ivo, known for its romantic atmosphere and delicious Venetian cuisine.
• Final Bacari Stop: End your trip at Al Merca, a small but lively bacaro where you can enjoy a glass of wine and reflect on your Venetian adventure.

Tips:

• Don’t forget to try the local spritz (Aperol or Campari) at one of the bacari!
• Wear comfortable shoes; you’ll be doing a lot of walking on those charming cobblestone streets.
• Take your time to soak in the atmosphere; Venice is all about enjoying the moment!

I hope this itinerary helps you have an unforgettable time in Venice! Enjoy every sip and bite! 🍷✨