How many days should I spend in Venice?

A common question, especially amongst first-time visitors to Venice, is how long does one need to do justice to the city? The honest answer would be a lifetime – Venice is so richly blessed with art, history and music that it would be easy to spend many years here without getting bored! However, for most people considering a short break, this is not very practical – the ties of work or family draw us back home.

In practice, most visitors will only have a few days, but we would advise anyone to consider four nights as a minimum. With a two night break, visitors are left with only one full day to explore, which means there is more time spent travelling than enjoying the destination. A three night stay is more comfortable, and means that it is possible to not only see the main sights such as St Mark’s Square and the Doge’s Palace, but also to discover one or two of the city’s wonderful art galleries such as the Accademia, Museo Correr or the Peggy Guggenheim.

A fourth night adds immeasurably to the experience, with a more relaxed itinerary which allows time to explore the small alleys and canals of the Dorsoduro or Cannaregio, dotted with stone bridges and frescoed churches, and maybe to take in a concert or an opera at La Fenice in the evening (the Kirker Concierge would be delighted to arrange tickets in advance). For those able to spare as long as a week, why not explore the Arsenale, take a day trip by boat to the islands of Murano, Burano and Torcello, or take a train to the neighbouring towns of Verona and Vicenza for a day.

Venice is a city which is easy to scratch the surface of, but difficult to fully comprehend. This means it is extremely rewarding to return year after year and discover a new corner each time. It is also a destination where a local guide can help make the most of even a short break by highlighting some of the city's most important sites, or showing you a new aspect or hidden corner of the city.

Don’t forget that Kirker clients receive complimentary access to the Doge’s Palace and Museo Correr, or for preference the Accademia or Peggy Guggenheim Museums. The Kirker Guide Notes provide invaluable tips on the best restaurants and sights, and the Kirker Concierge is on hand to make a table reservation, book tickets for a performance at La Fenice, or arrange a guided tour. Every Tuesday Kirker clients can also join a walking tour with an expert local guide – we offer this for only £15 per person, or complimentary during the winter months.

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