Complete 11-day guide to Venice & Florence, Italy with Top attractions and Shopping in Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice (2026)

Day 1 starts at Saint Mark's Basilica at 9 AM - allow 1 hour for exploration. Next, walk 5 minutes to reach Doge's Palace by 10:30 AM - spend 2 hours here. Afterward, take a 15-minute vaporetto ride to Ponte di Rialto, expected fare €7 - arrive by 1 PM and enjoy the sights for 30 minutes. This itinerary balances cultural immersion and leisurely exploration.

Attractions

Saint Mark's Basilica

A stunning example of Italo-Byzantine architecture, this basilica features dazzling mosaics and remarkable history, making it a must-visit in Venice.

Doge's Palace

Once the residence of the Doge of Venice, this magnificent palace showcases stunning frescoes and offers a glimpse into Venetian history and governance.

Ponte di Rialto

An architectural marvel, this iconic bridge offers stunning views of the Grand Canal and is surrounded by vibrant shops and markets.

Day 2 starts at the Grand Canal at 9 AM - allow 1 hour for a scenic stroll. Next, walk to Ca' Rezzonico by 10:30 AM (15 mins, free) - spend 1.5 hours exploring its museum. Finally, head to Teatro La Fenice by 12:30 PM (10 mins, free) - enjoy a 90-minute tour of this historic opera house. All locations are centrally located for a balanced pace.

Attractions

Grand Canal

The main waterway of Venice, the Grand Canal is best explored by vaporetto; experience its breathtaking palaces and bustling life.

Ca' Rezzonico

This 18th-century palace is now a museum showcasing Venetian life, art, and culture in a beautifully preserved setting.

Teatro La Fenice

One of the most renowned opera houses in Italy, La Fenice offers splendid architecture and vibrant performances; a treat for lovers of music and culture.

Start Day 3 at Pasticceria Storica Mercerie at 9 AM – savor local pastries for 1 hour. Walk 10 minutes to Fondaco dei Tedeschi (10:30 AM) – explore shops and rooftop views for 1.5 hours. Next, take a 15-minute Vaporetto ride (~€7) to the Peggy Guggenheim Collection (12:30 PM) for 2 hours of modern art. Enjoy a balanced day mixing delicious treats and artistic experiences.

Attractions

Pasticceria Storica Mercerie

This bustling shopping street connects Saint Mark's Square to the Rialto Bridge, featuring a variety of boutiques, jewelers, and unique Venetian crafts.

Fondaco dei Tedeschi

A historic building turned shopping center, this location combines luxury shopping with stunning views from its rooftop terrace.

Peggy Guggenheim Collection

This modern art museum showcases works by renowned 20th-century artists and provides insight into the evolution of art in Venice.

Day 4 starts at Gallerie dell'Accademia at 9 AM - allow 1.5 hours for the art collection. Travel via Vaporetto from Accademia stop to Campo Santa Margherita (~10 min, €7), arriving around 11 AM for 1 hour. Then, take a leisurely 5-minute walk to Campo San Polo for your 12:30 PM visit, allowing 1 hour to soak in the atmosphere. Enjoy a balanced day of art and relaxation in Venice!

Attractions

Gallerie dell'Accademia

Home to the most important collection of Venetian paintings, this museum offers an extensive look at art from the 14th to the 18th centuries.

Campo Santa Margherita

This lively square is perfect for people-watching, featuring local cafés and vibrant atmosphere, showcasing authentic Venetian life away from tourist traps.

Campo San Polo

One of the largest squares in Venice, known for its beautiful architecture and vibrant atmosphere. It's a great spot to relax and soak in local life.

Day 1 starts at Piazza della Signoria at 9 AM - allow 1 hour to admire the sculptures and atmosphere. Then, take a 10-minute walk to Uffizi Galleries at 10:30 AM for a 3-hour art experience. Afterward, grab a light lunch nearby before strolling 15 minutes to Ponte Vecchio at 2 PM to enjoy views and shops. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon with options for coffee or gelato nearby.

Attractions

Piazza della Signoria

The heart of Florence, featuring stunning sculptures and the impressive Palazzo Vecchio. A popular spot for people-watching and capturing the beauty of Renaissance architecture.

Uffizi Galleries

One of the world's most famous art museums, housing masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and da Vinci. A must-visit for art lovers and history enthusiasts.

Ponte Vecchio

Florence's oldest bridge, famous for its jewelry shops and scenic views of the Arno River. A romantic spot perfect for strolls and photos.

Day 2 starts at the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore at 9 AM - allow 1.5 hours for exploration. Walk 10 minutes to Museo Nazionale del Bargello, arriving by 11 AM for a 2-hour visit. Enjoy lunch at il Mercato Centrale Firenze, a 5-minute walk at 1:30 PM, staying for 2 hours. All attractions are conveniently situated near the city center.

Attractions

Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore

Known for its iconic dome, this cathedral showcases stunning Gothic architecture and offers breathtaking views from its dome's top.

Museo Nazionale del Bargello

Home to an outstanding collection of Renaissance sculptures. A less crowded alternative to the Uffizi, great for art enthusiasts seeking masterpieces.

il Mercato Centrale Firenze

A vibrant market offering leather goods, local foods, and souvenirs. A perfect spot to indulge in Florentine culinary delights and shop for unique items.

Day 3 starts at Boboli Gardens (closest to city center) at 9 AM - allow 2 hours to explore. Walk 15 minutes to Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze by 11:30 AM (entry ~€12) - spend 90 minutes marveling at Michelangelo's David. Enjoy a 10-minute stroll to Basilica of Santa Croce at 1:30 PM (entry ~€8) - allow 1 hour for this historical site.

Attractions

Boboli Gardens

A stunning historic park filled with beautiful gardens, sculptures, and fountains. A relaxing escape from the city bustle with picturesque views of Florence.

Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze

Home to Michelangelo's David, this museum showcases important works of Renaissance art. A must-visit for its historical and artistic significance.

Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence

A beautiful Franciscan church known for its stunning frescoes and monumental tombs of famous Italians like Michelangelo and Galileo.

Day 4 starts at il Mercato Centrale Firenze at 9 AM - allow 90 minutes to explore local food. Walk 10 minutes to Museo Galileo, starting at 11 AM for a 2-hour visit. Finally, stroll 15 minutes to Church & Museum of Orsanmichele at 1:30 PM - spend 30 minutes appreciating its art. All locations are centrally located for an easy and enjoyable day.

Attractions

il Mercato Centrale Firenze

An indoor market famous for its fresh produce, meats, and cheeses. The upper floor features various eateries where you can taste Florentine cuisine.

Museo Galileo

A fascinating museum dedicated to the history of science, featuring original scientific instruments and interactive exhibits. Perfect for science and history buffs.

Church & Museum of Orsanmichele

A unique church and former grain market known for its stunning architecture and beautiful sculptures by renowned artists such as Donatello.

Start Day 5 at Giotto's Bell Tower at 9 AM - allow 1 hour for stunning views. Walk 10 minutes to Palazzo Vecchio at 10:30 AM - spend 2 hours exploring this historic site. Afterward, take a 15-minute stroll to Museo di San Marco at 1 PM, allowing 1.5 hours to appreciate the art. All locations are centrally located, making travel easy and enjoyable.

Attractions

Giotto's Bell Tower

Part of the Florence Cathedral complex, this bell tower offers one of the best views of the city after climbing its 414 steps.

Palazzo Vecchio

Florence's town hall is rich in history and art, featuring stunning frescoes and architecture. A key part of the city's political and cultural life.

Museo di San Marco

This museum in a former monastery features stunning artwork, including frescoes by Fra Angelico, providing insight into Florentine life and spirituality.

Start at Basilica of Santa Maria Novella at 9 AM - allow 1 hour for exploration. Then, take a 10-minute walk (free) to Stibbert Museum, arriving by 10:30 AM; spend 2 hours here. At 1 PM, enjoy a 15-minute taxi ride (~€10) to Palazzo Pitti, where you can relax and explore for 2 hours. This itinerary balances culture and leisure, optimized by proximity to the city center.

Attractions

Basilica of Santa Maria Novella

A beautiful church showcasing remarkable Gothic architecture and stunning frescoes, known as the gateway to Florence. A must-see for art and architecture enthusiasts.

Stibbert Museum

An eclectic museum showcasing a vast collection of arms and armor. It offers insights into the history of warfare and chivalry with stunning exhibits.

Palazzo Pitti

Once a royal palace, it now houses various art collections, beautiful gardens, and historical exhibits. A rich experience for art and history lovers.

Day 7 starts at Mercato di Sant’Ambrogio at 9 AM - allow 1 hour to explore local delicacies. Next, take a 15-minute tram ride (~€1.50) to Piazza Santo Spirito by 10:30 AM for 1 hour of people-watching and café visits. Finally, head to Fiesole with a 30-minute bus ride (~€2.50), arriving by noon. Enjoy 2 hours in Fiesole for stunning views and a leisurely lunch.

Attractions

Mercato di Sant’Ambrogio

A vibrant local market offering fresh produce, artisanal foods, and a taste of authentic Florentine life.

Piazza Santo Spirito

A charming square with lively cafes, boutiques, and a true taste of Florence's bohemian culture.

Fiesole

A nearby hilltop town with Etruscan and Roman ruins, offering stunning views of Florence and quaint local shops.

Complete 11-day guide to Venice & Florence, Italy with Top attractions and Shopping

Trip Highlights

Day-by-Day

Day 1

Attractions

Saint Mark's Basilica

Doge's Palace

Ponte di Rialto

Day 2

Day 3

Day 4

Day 5

Day 6

Day 7

Day 8

Day 9

Day 10

Day 11