Venice and Lake Garda, Italy
The perfect 3 days itinerary
Venice, the capital of northern Italy’s Veneto region, is built on more than 100 small islands in a lagoon in the Adriatic Sea. It has no roads, just canals – including the Grand Canal thoroughfare – with Gothic and Renaissance palaces lining its banks. Lake Garda, located in Northern Italy, is known for its crystal clear water. At the south end, the town of Sirmione is dominated by the Rocca Scaligera, a fortress with harbor views. The nearby Grotte di Catullo archaeological site includes a Roman villa. Let's dive into the itinerary for your 3-day trip to these fascinating places.
What to do in Venice and Lake Garda?
This 3 days itinerary is the perfect guide to the best things to see in Venice and Lake Garda. It includes day-by-day activities, travel tips, and the top places to visit.
Day 1: Discover the Magic of Venice
Morning
Start your day at St. Mark's Square, the heart of Venice. Visit the stunning St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace. Take the elevator up to the top of the Campanile for a panoramic view of Venice.
Afternoon
Explore the Rialto Market and the surrounding shops. Take a gondola ride along the Grand Canal and through the smaller canals of Venice.
Evening
Enjoy a traditional Venetian meal at a local restaurant. Try the famous seafood risotto and tiramisu for dessert.
Day 2: Explore the Islands of Venice
Morning
Take a boat tour to the islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello. Watch glass-blowing demonstrations in Murano and admire the colorful houses in Burano.
Afternoon
Visit the island of Torcello, known for its quiet, rural atmosphere and the Byzantine mosaics in the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta.
Evening
Return to Venice and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Zattere, the city's waterfront promenade. Have dinner at a waterside restaurant.
Day 3: A Day at Lake Garda
Morning
Travel to Lake Garda, the largest lake in Italy. Visit the town of Sirmione, known for its medieval castle and the Grotte di Catullo, an archaeological site with a Roman villa.
Afternoon
Take a boat tour of the lake and visit the towns of Riva del Garda and Malcesine. Enjoy the stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
Evening
Return to Sirmione and enjoy a lakeside dinner. Try the local fish dishes and a glass of Lugana, a white wine produced in the region.