From Florence: Day Trip to Venice with Bell Tower Tickets

A Practical Review of the Florence to Venice Day Trip with Bell Tower Tickets

Travelers often dream of ticking off Venice from their Italian itinerary, but fitting this enchanting city into a busy schedule can be tricky. This day trip from Florence to Venice, organized by Around City Florence, offers a streamlined way to explore Venice’s highlights without sacrificing comfort or flexibility. While it’s not an all-inclusive tour, it provides a balanced mix of guided experiences and free time to wander on your own.

What we particularly love about this trip is the fast, comfortable high-speed train journey, the ticket to the iconic Bell Tower, and the chance to explore Venice’s charming streets at your own pace. However, a key consideration might be the limited time in the city—while enough for highlights, it’s a quick visit that requires some prioritizing. This trip suits independent travelers eager to see Venice without the hassle of planning every detail, especially if you’re keen on panoramic views and a flexible schedule.

Key Points

• Fast and convenient: High-speed train from Florence makes it easy to travel comfortably and quickly.
• View from above: St. Mark’s Bell Tower tickets offer unforgettable panoramic views of Venice.
• Flexible exploration: Ample free time to shop, wander, and soak in the atmosphere.
• Iconic sights: See major landmarks like Rialto Bridge, St. Mark’s Square, and the Bridge of Sighs.
• Optional extras: Option to take a gondola ride for an authentic Venice experience.
• Limited guide interaction: No guided tour—this is more of a self-guided adventure within a structured framework.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown

This day trip is designed to maximize your time in Venice, starting early from Florence. The journey begins at Firenze Santa Maria Novella station, where you’ll meet your small group (limited to 10 participants, making for a more intimate experience). After boarding the high-speed train, which takes about 2 hours, you’ll arrive in Venice in style and comfort.

Once in Venice, you’ll walk to the St. Mark’s Bell Tower, where your timed entry tickets allow you to skip the long lines. Climbing to the top takes roughly 30 minutes, but the views are well worth it. You’ll be rewarded with sweeping perspectives of the city’s rooftops, canals, and the shimmering lagoon—perfect for photos or just soaking in the scene.

After the bell tower visit, you’ll have around 40 minutes to wander before regrouping. The free time is ideal for shopping—many travelers have raved about finding Murano glass, masks, and other treasures, with some noting that “the shopping opportunities are fantastic if you’re looking for authentic souvenirs.”

Following this, you’ll stroll past Venice’s most famous landmarks, including the Rialto Bridge, the Square of St. Mark, and the Bridge of Sighs. The walk allows plenty of chances to admire the city’s architecture, take photos, or find a cozy café for a quick coffee or gelato. Some reviews mention the beautiful views from the canals and the lively atmosphere around these iconic spots.

The Optional Gondola Ride

One highlight that many travelers consider is the optional gondola ride. While not included, it’s a popular way to experience Venice more intimately. Reviewers have described it as “the perfect way to see the city from a different perspective,” although it does add to the cost. If you’re on a budget, wandering the back alleys and crossing small bridges often provides just as much charm.

Returning to Florence

The trip wraps up with a relaxed 40-minute walk back to the train station, where you’ll catch your return high-speed train to Florence, arriving back after an approximately 2-hour journey. The whole experience lasts around 8 hours, making it a full but manageable day.

Transportation and Timing

Traveling by high-speed train is one of the biggest benefits of this tour. It guarantees a stress-free, quick connection between Florence and Venice, avoiding long bus rides or complicated logistics. The train tickets are included in the price, and the scheduling is designed to give you maximum time in Venice, though exact start times vary (be sure to check availability).

The group size is capped at 10, which keeps things personal and allows for a more flexible, relaxed experience. The timed entry to the bell tower ensures you beat the crowds, while the free time in Venice allows you to tailor your visit—whether that’s shopping, sightseeing, or simply sitting by a canal.

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What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in your package are round-trip high-speed train tickets, timed entry to St. Mark’s Bell Tower, and free time for shopping. You also have the option to add a gondola ride, which many visitors find worthwhile for the authentic experience.

Not included are access to St. Mark’s Basilica, the Pala D’oro, or St. Mark’s Museums. The tour also does not provide a guide, so you’ll need to navigate the city independently, making it ideal for confident travelers who enjoy a bit of spontaneity. Food and drinks are also not covered, so consider bringing some cash for snacks or a quick meal.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of This Trip

• Arrive early at the meeting point at Firenze Santa Maria Novella, about 15 minutes before departure.
• Pack comfortable shoes since you’ll be walking a lot, including cobblestone streets.
• Bring a camera or smartphone to capture the stunning views from the bell tower and along the canals.
• Carry cash for souvenirs and small purchases, as some shops may not accept credit cards.
• Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly—Venice can be quite humid or rainy depending on the season.
• Remember your ID or passport for train travel, especially if you’re traveling from outside the Eurozone.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This day trip offers a practical and enjoyable way to see Venice without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. The combination of a quick, comfortable train journey, panoramic vistas from the bell tower, and free time to experience the city’s ambiance makes it ideal for independent travelers who want a structured but flexible day.

If you’re excited about stunning views and authentic shopping, this trip packs a lot into a single day. However, those seeking a guided, in-depth tour or more time to explore may find this schedule a bit rushed. It’s a good pick for travelers who value convenience and independence but still want to experience some of Venice’s essence.

FAQs

How long is the train ride from Florence to Venice?
The high-speed train takes approximately 2 hours, making for a quick and comfortable journey.

What is included in the tour package?
Round-trip high-speed train tickets, timed entry to St. Mark’s Bell Tower, and free time for shopping are included. Gondola rides are optional and not part of the standard package.

Can I explore Venice on my own?
Yes, the trip provides ample free time for you to shop, wander, and take in the sights at your own pace.

Is a guide provided during the day?
No, there is no guide for the exploration parts of the trip. You’ll follow a set itinerary but will be responsible for navigating and managing your time.

What are some highlights I should look out for?
Expect to see the Rialto Bridge, St. Mark’s Square, and the Bridge of Sighs, along with panoramic views from the Bell Tower.

How much time do I have in Venice?
You’ll have roughly 2-3 hours once in Venice, including the bell tower visit and free exploration time.

Is this trip suitable for people with mobility issues?
It may not be ideal, as there’s a fair amount of walking and navigating cobblestone streets.

In the end, this day trip offers an efficient, scenic, and flexible way to experience Venice’s highlights from Florence. Perfect for independent travelers eager to capture the magic of Venice in just one day without the stress of logistical planning.

You can check availability for your dates here: