Venice in 1 Day for Couples - Begin with an iconic Venetian Spritz
In Collaboration with deTourist. Updated on February 2, 2026.
Private 2.5-hour, pay-as-you-go culinary walk through San Marco, Rialto and Cannaregio with a licensed local guide. Sip a Spritz, sample Venetian rosticceria and cicchetti, browse the Rialto fish market, and finish with artisan gelato — all tailored to your tastes and paced for a relaxed, romantic experience.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with deTourist, inspired by the tour A la Carte Venice: Flexible Food Tour with a Local Guide. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Begin with an iconic Venetian Spritz
- Historic Rialto Bridge & lively Rialto market
- Classic bacari cicchetti and a local glass of wine (ombra)
- Sweet finish with artisan gelato or traditional pastry
- Private, flexible — you choose what to taste and pay-as-you-go
Itinerary
Day 1
Private 2.5-hour food walk focused on romantic, local experiences in Venice's San Marco, Rialto and nearby neighborhoods.
Meet your guide — Campo dei Gesuiti (brief intro)
Gather in the internal courtyard area of Campo dei Gesuiti. Quick introductions, overview of the route and any dietary preferences or mobility notes.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask your guide for a quick map of the route — they'll note quieter alleys perfect for photos together.
- If you'd like a quieter meeting spot, request a pickup near your hotel in the historic center when booking.
- Campo dei Gesuiti is mostly level; bring a light jacket in spring evenings — it can be breezy by the canals.
Spritz Time — start with a classic aperitif
Begin with Venice’s iconic aperitif: choose Aperol, Campari, Cynar or the local Select while your guide shares spritz-making tips and a little local history.
Tips from local experts:
- Order a spritz to share and clink glasses facing the canal or a quiet corner for a romantic photo-op.
- Ask the bartender for the local 'Select' if you want the most Venetian-style spritz rather than the sweeter Aperol.
- If you prefer low alcohol or a mocktail, tell the bar staff — many places will make a spritz-style soft drink.
Transfer (gentle stroll) to the San Marco area
Enjoy a relaxed walk together through atmospheric alleys toward San Marco — your guide will point out hidden courtyards and romantic viewpoints.
Tips from local experts:
- Hold hands and pause at small bridges for unobstructed canal photos before the crowds arrive.
- Your guide can show quieter side-streets if you prefer to avoid busier tourist paths.
- Watch for uneven cobbles; comfortable shoes are recommended (cobbled surfaces are part of Venice’s charm).
Rosticceria Stop — historic street-food tasting
Sample fried Venetian favorites (mozzarella in carrozza, arancini, fish fritters) at a no-frills local rosticceria beloved by residents.
Tips from local experts:
- Share one or two small bites so you can taste more stops together — ideal for couples who want to graze.
- Ask which items are freshly fried — eating them hot is far more romantic and authentic.
- If you have dietary needs, tell your guide in advance; rosticcerie often accommodate vegetarian or lighter requests.
Transfer to Rialto area
Short walk toward the legendary Rialto Bridge and market; your guide will share stories about Venice’s merchant past.
Tips from local experts:
- Pause on small bridges for candid couple photos; the guide can recommend the best light for pictures.
- If you have mobility concerns, ask the guide for the steadiest route avoiding steep steps.
- Spring mornings are pleasant but can be breezy near the Grand Canal — keep a light layer handy.
Rialto Bridge & Market — vibrant local life
Explore the fish and produce stalls at the Rialto market and cross the iconic bridge — perfect for sensory, romantic memories.
Tips from local experts:
- For the best photos without crowds, ask your guide to show a quieter viewpoint on the market side.
- Smell the citrus and fresh herbs at the fruit stalls — your guide can suggest a small vendor to buy a seasonal treat to share.
- Markets can be busy — keep valuables close and plan a short, unhurried stroll around the stalls.
Bacaro Time — cicchetti & an ombra (small glass of wine)
Stand at the bar like locals and enjoy assorted cicchetti paired with a regional wine — anchovies, creamed cod, or prosciutto-topped polenta.
Tips from local experts:
- Order several small plates to share — sampling variety is more romantic than one large plate.
- Ask for an 'ombra' (a small glass of local wine) — it's a Venetian custom and perfect for a cozy moment together.
- Stand at the counter for an authentic vibe; your guide can point out the best cicchetti for two to nibble while chatting.
Sweet Finale — artisan gelato or Venetian pastry
Finish on a sweet, intimate note with creamy artisan gelato or a traditional Venetian cookie from a family-run gelateria/pasticceria.
Tips from local experts:
- Share a single scoop so you can mix flavors and feed each other for a cute, romantic moment.
- Ask the gelato maker for seasonal flavors — spring often brings fruity or floral specialties.
- Take your gelato to a nearby bench or narrow canal-side spot for a private, peaceful finish to the tour.
Wrap-up & farewell (option to be dropped off)
Quick recap, local recommendations for dinner or a sunset gondola, and confirm personalized drop-off or directions to your next destination.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask your guide for a recommended romantic dinner spot or a private gondola time-slot for sunset.
- If you want a rooftop cocktail later, request a quiet terrace recommendation away from tourist crowds.
- Confirm any dietary or booking requests for after the tour — your guide can often help reserve a table.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | 2 |
| Restaurants | 3 |
| Total Activities | 7 |
| Total Places | 7 |
| Activities Types | Neighborhood, Restaurant, Transfer, Meal, Attraction, Experience |
