Timeline
13:31
Start your morning at Caffè Florian, the oldest coffee house still in operation, established in 1720. The interior brings an exclusive setting to begin your day. Note that it is open from 09:00, so arriving just after opening ensures you beat the midday rush.
14:31
Walk to Libreria Acqua Alta, a cozy antiquarian bookshop just 11 minutes away. Browse the shelves and stacks, or look for the gondola in the back room. The owner is fond of cats, so expect to make new feral friends while you explore this unique spot. It closes at 19:10, so you have plenty of time.
16:16
Head to I Tre Mercanti, a deli 12 minutes away, for a special selection of Italian food and drinks. Their single portion Tiramisù is famous, making it a perfect late-morning snack. The shop is open from 11:00, fitting perfectly before the golden hour.
19:16
End your visit at the Bell tower of St. Mark. This 1912 structure, an exact replica of the tower that collapsed in 1902, offers great views of Venice and the lagoon. Arrive as the golden light begins (around 19:16 on 15 April) to see the city bathed in warm light as the sun sets toward the WNW.
Local tip
The Bell tower of St. Mark is a 16-minute walk from the anchor, but the food and shop stops are clustered closer to St Mark’s Square. Keep your pace steady to enjoy the views without rushing.
Check before you go
- Caffè Florian opens at 09:00.
- Libreria Acqua Alta is open until 19:10.
- I Tre Mercanti opens at 11:00.
- The Bell tower of St. Mark viewing is best at golden light (19:16 on 15 April).
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Venice (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).