24 Hours in Venice Without the Price

Published on June 6, 2025

by Victoria Ricci

Venice may have a reputation for being one of Italy’s most expensive destinations, but it’s absolutely possible to enjoy the magic of this floating city on a budget. With careful planning and a spirit of exploration, you can see the highlights, enjoy the local flavors, and immerse yourself in the charm of Venice in just 24 hours—without breaking the bank.

Morning: Rialto Markets, Canals, and Caffè

Start your day early with a stroll along the Rialto Market. The colorful stalls of fresh produce and seafood are lively and atmospheric—and free to enjoy. From here, walk across the Rialto Bridge and admire the views over the Grand Canal.

Grab a quick and affordable breakfast at a local café, such as Caffè del Doge, where you can enjoy a cappuccino and pastry for under €4. Then, lose yourself in the narrow alleyways and romantic bridges that define Venice. Exploring by foot is not only immersive, it’s free!

Midday: Churches, Squares, and Budget Bites

Head toward Piazza San Marco, but skip the expensive tourist traps. Instead, peek into the nearby Church of San Zaccaria, which has stunning Renaissance artworks and a peaceful crypt for just a small donation.

For lunch, grab cicchetti—Venetian-style tapas—at a local bacaro like Osteria al Squero, where small plates cost around €1.50–€2 each. Pair it with a small glass of house wine (ombra) for just €1 more.

Afternoon: Off-the-Beaten-Path Exploration

In the afternoon, escape the crowds by heading to the Dorsoduro district. This artsy neighborhood is home to the beautiful Zattere promenade and plenty of photo-worthy corners. You can visit the Church of Santa Maria della Salute for free, one of Venice’s most iconic buildings.

Wander past artisan shops and take your time soaking in the city’s slower pace. If you’re a fan of modern art, the nearby Peggy Guggenheim Collection offers reduced admission rates after 4 PM on select days.

Evening: Sunset, Scenic Views, and Local Flavor

Watch the sunset from the banks of Fondamenta Nove or the Riva degli Schiavoni, both offering sweeping views of the lagoon and San Giorgio Maggiore. These views cost nothing and deliver peak Venetian romance.

Finish your day with a budget-friendly dinner at Trattoria Alla Rampa, a locals’ spot where hearty pasta dishes are under €10. If you’re still full of energy, enjoy a late-night walk through the lit-up alleyways and quiet canals—one of the most magical (and free) experiences in the city.

Budget Tips for a Day in Venice

Use vaporetto boats (public water buses) instead of gondolas—€9.50 for a 75-minute ticket or €25 for a 24-hour pass.
Avoid eating or drinking in Piazza San Marco—prices are inflated for tourists.
Carry a refillable water bottle—Venice has free potable water fountains all around the city.
Look for churches with free or low-cost entry—many have hidden art treasures.
Walk everywhere—the city is compact and best experienced on foot.

Where to Stay in Venice

Staying overnight in central Venice can be prohibitively expensive for budget travelers. Thankfully, several nearby towns offer affordable accommodations with quick and cheap train connections to Venice’s historic center. Here are three great options:

Mestre – Located just across the lagoon on the mainland, Mestre offers the most convenient and budget-friendly base. Trains from Mestre to Venice Santa Lucia station run frequently and take less than 10 minutes, with tickets costing about €1.45. You’ll find a wide range of hotels and guesthouses here starting at around €35–€50 per night.
Marghera – Slightly south of Mestre, Marghera is quieter and even more affordable. It’s served by the same rail line to Venice (also under 10 minutes travel), making it equally convenient. You can often find rooms in small inns or hostels for as low as €30 per night.
Treviso – This charming town is a bit farther (about 30–40 minutes by regional train, around €3.60), but offers a beautiful and authentic northern Italian vibe. Treviso is especially ideal if you’re flying via Treviso Airport (TSF), a hub for budget airlines. Lodging starts around €40–€60 and the savings can be worth the extra commute.

Final Thoughts

Venice’s timeless beauty doesn’t need to come with a premium price tag. With one well-planned day, you can experience its historic heart, taste its culinary treasures, and take in its dreamy scenery—on a shoestring. Let the city’s poetry unfold as you wander and savor every affordable moment.