Two Perfect Days in Venice — Affordable, Authentic, and Unforgettable

Last updated October 14, 2025 | By Mundiel Editors

Venice — the floating city of romance, canals, and timeless beauty — often gets a reputation for being expensive. But if you plan wisely, you can experience its magic even on a budget. Staying at the Crowne Plaza Venice East – Quarto d’Altino gives you a comfortable base with easy access to the heart of Venice without the high prices of staying right in San Marco. Here’s how to make the most of two days and two nights in Venice—without breaking the bank.

Getting There and Around

The Crowne Plaza Venice is conveniently located next to Quarto d’Altino train station, which connects directly to Venice Santa Lucia Station in about 25 minutes. Trains run frequently, and tickets cost roughly €4 one way—far cheaper than taxis or water transfers. Once you arrive in Venice, you’ll explore mostly on foot or via the vaporetto (public water bus).

Money-saving tip: Buy a 48-hour ACTV travel card (€35) or US$40 which gives you unlimited rides on vaporettos and buses across Venice, Murano, and Burano.

Day 1 – Discovering Venice’s Classics

Morning: Arrival and First Impressions

From the hotel, hop on the morning train to Venice. Exit the station and let your first view of the Grand Canal take your breath away—it’s one of those unforgettable travel moments.

Walk slowly along the Strada Nova, a lively pedestrian street lined with bakeries and souvenir stalls, toward Rialto Bridge. Pause at Pasticceria Dal Mas or Tonolo for a cappuccino and pastry—around €3–5 total.

Midday: Rialto and San Marco

Cross the Rialto Bridge and browse its nearby market for fresh produce, Venetian masks, and handmade crafts. Continue your walk toward Piazza San Marco, stopping for photos of the Bridge of Sighs along the way.

At St. Mark’s Basilica, entry is free (though skip-the-line access costs €6). Step inside to admire golden mosaics and centuries of history. Climb up to the terrace (just €10) for a sweeping view of the square and lagoon.

For lunch, try Trattoria da Nico or a bacaro (Venetian wine bar) for cicchetti — small tapas-style bites — and a glass of ombra (local wine). Expect to spend €10–12 per person.

Afternoon: Canal Views on a Budget

As an alternative to a gondola ride (€80+), you can take the vaporetto Line 1 along the Grand Canal from San Marco to Piazzale Roma. It’s the same route, just €9.50 (without a pass), and gives you incredible views of Venetian palazzos gliding past.

Evening: Dinner and Return

Head back toward the station via Cannaregio, a charming and less touristy area. Stop for a simple pasta dinner at Osteria al Cicheto or Trattoria Pontini (mains around €12–15).

Catch the evening train back to Quarto d’Altino, where you can unwind at the hotel bar or enjoy a quiet evening stroll nearby.

Day 2 – Islands and Local Life

Morning: Murano and Burano

After breakfast, take the train to Venice and hop on the vaporetto to Murano, famous for glassmaking. Visit a free glass-blowing demonstration (many shops offer them) and browse unique, affordable souvenirs.

Continue to Burano, the island of brightly painted fishermen’s houses. This colorful spot is a photographer’s dream! Enjoy a light seafood lunch at Trattoria da Romano or Riva Rosa, or grab a simple pizza slice for €3–5.

Afternoon: Hidden Corners of Venice

Head back to the main island and explore Dorsoduro, Venice’s artistic quarter. Wander past the Peggy Guggenheim Collection (entry €16, optional) or simply stroll along the Zattere waterfront for great views across the lagoon. Stop for gelato at Gelateria Nico (€3).

If you’d rather enjoy culture for free, visit Santa Maria della Salute, a stunning baroque church by the water.

Evening: Sunset and Farewell

End your Venice adventure with a sunset view from Riva degli Schiavoni or Accademia Bridge, both offering magical light over the canals.

For a final meal, grab cicchetti and a spritz at Cantine del Vino già Schiavi—a favorite local haunt. Return to Quarto d’Altino for your last night’s rest at the Crowne Plaza.