Things To Know Before Going to Venice

Venice is a unique and unforgettable city, but its layout, culture, and environment can be quite different from other destinations. Here’s what to keep in mind to make the most of your visit:

1. Getting Around Venice

  • No Cars: Venice is car-free! The city is entirely walkable, and most transport is via water. Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking over bridges and cobblestone streets.

  • Vaporetto (Water Bus): The main public transportation system is the vaporetto. It’s the best way to get around quickly, especially to the outer islands like Murano and Burano. Buy a multi-day pass if you plan to use it frequently.

  • Water Taxis: These are quicker and more private than vaporettos but can be quite expensive. Confirm the fare upfront if you decide to take one.

2. Know Your Arrival and Departure Logistics

  • Arriving by Train: If you’re arriving by train, you’ll come to Venice’s Santa Lucia Station, right by the Grand Canal, where you can catch a vaporetto or water taxi.

  • Arriving by Plane: From Marco Polo Airport, you can take an Alilaguna boat (a ferry service that takes you into Venice) or a land bus to Piazzale Roma, where you can transfer to a vaporetto.

3. Navigation Tips

  • Getting Lost is Normal: Venice’s narrow alleyways and canals make navigation challenging, so expect to get lost—it’s part of the experience! Offline maps can help, or just let yourself wander and discover hidden gems.

  • Use Landmarks: Venice’s landmarks, like the Rialto Bridge and Piazza San Marco, make good reference points. Signs saying “Per Rialto” or “Per San Marco” are found around the city and can help guide you.

4. Accommodations

  • Consider Staying in Different Areas: If you want to avoid the crowds, look into accommodations in neighborhoods like Cannaregio or Dorsoduro. San Marco is central but also the most crowded.

  • Mind the Steps: Venice’s hotels often lack elevators due to historic preservation rules, so pack light or be prepared to carry bags up narrow stairs.

5. Food and Dining

  • Avoid Tourist Traps: Restaurants around main attractions can be overpriced with average quality. Look for places frequented by locals or venture into quieter areas for a more authentic experience.

  • Try Venetian Specialties: Don’t miss out on local dishes like sarde in saor (marinated sardines), bigoli in salsa (thick spaghetti with anchovy sauce), and fresh seafood.

  • Cover Charges: Many restaurants in Venice have a cover charge (coperto) or service charge. This is normal, so check your bill before tipping extra.

6. Respect the City’s Rules and Etiquette

  • No Swimming in Canals: Swimming in the canals is strictly prohibited and comes with fines.

  • Dress Modestly for Churches: Venice’s churches, including St. Mark’s Basilica, have a dress code requiring shoulders and knees to be covered.

  • Dispose of Trash Properly: Venice has strict waste disposal guidelines to protect the city’s environment. Use designated bins and follow any recycling rules.

7. Top Sights and Attractions

  • St. Mark’s Basilica: It’s free to enter, but long lines are common. Arrive early or book a timed entry online to skip the line.

  • Doge’s Palace: Adjacent to St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace is a must-visit for its grand architecture and artwork.

  • Murano and Burano: Take a vaporetto to Murano (famous for glassmaking) and Burano (known for colorful houses and lace-making).

  • Gondola Rides: Gondola rides are iconic but pricey. If it’s a must-do for you, plan accordingly. Sharing with others can reduce the cost.

8. Prepare for the Tides

  • Acqua Alta (High Water): During autumn and winter, Venice can experience flooding, especially in Piazza San Marco. Check the forecast, wear waterproof shoes, and be prepared for raised walkways in flooded areas.

  • Tide Apps: Download an app like Hi!Tide to monitor water levels if you’re visiting in high-water season.

9. Be Mindful of Peak Season Crowds

  • Best Times to Visit: Early spring and late fall offer mild weather and fewer crowds. Summer, especially July and August, is very crowded and hot.

  • Early Mornings and Evenings: Visiting attractions early in the morning or later in the evening can help you avoid peak tourist crowds.

10. Shopping Tips

  • Support Local Artisans: Venice has a wealth of handmade goods, from Murano glass to Venetian masks and lace. Look for reputable shops and avoid vendors selling cheap knock-offs.

  • Beware of Fake Murano Glass: If you’re buying Murano glass, ensure it has a certification of authenticity. Real Murano glass is an investment, so be wary of cheap imitations.

11. Budget for a Unique Experience

  • Entrance Fees and Extra Charges: While many sights are free, some attractions and boat rides can add up. Plan for some additional costs if you want the full Venetian experience, especially if you want to explore the islands or take a gondola ride.

Enjoy the magic of Venice, a city truly unlike any other!