Expert Tips for a Memorable Trip to Venice
Looking for tips for your next trip to Venice? Venice, the enchanting city of canals, gondolas, and timeless beauty, beckons travelers from around the world. But before you pack your bags and set off on your adventure, there are some things you need to know. Here’s our guide on the top don’ts of Venice – tips that’ll help you avoid common pitfalls and make the most of your visit!
Don’t Rush Your Visit
As I’ve noticed, many tourists treat Venice as a day trip destination, which totally robs them of the city’s true essence. Venice transforms as night falls by revealing a completely different character. The soft glow of streetlights reflecting off the canals creates an atmosphere that’s nothing short of magical.
For this tip, we recommend spending at least one or two nights in Venice to fully appreciate its charm. As the day-trippers depart, you’ll find a more serene city, perfect for romantic evening strolls or quiet dinners in tucked-away restaurants. The early morning hours offer another unique perspective, with locals going about their daily routines and the city slowly coming to life. Believe us, we’re locals. You’ll witness Venice’s brilliance and create memories that last a lifetime by simply staying overnight!
Don’t Overpack
When it comes to carrying luggage, less is definitely more in Venice. The city’s layout, with its numerous bridges and narrow alleys, makes exploring around with large suitcases a nightmare. Just imagine yourself dragging a heavy bag up and down countless steps and uneven, thousand-year-old brick roads – not exactly the most glamorous holiday you can think of, yeah?
Instead, opt for a small, easily manageable backpack or bag. If you’re on a longer trip and can’t avoid bringing a larger suitcase, consider using one of the luggage storage facilities near the train station or Piazzale Roma. For a fee, you can safely store your bulky items and explore the city unencumbered.
If you must bring your luggage to your accommodation, look into porter services. Although it’s an added expense, saving your energy to enjoy the sights might be worth it rather than wrestling with your bags.
Don’t Skip the Skip-the-Line Tickets
Venice’s popularity means long queues at major attractions, especially during peak tourist seasons. Waiting in line for hours under the hot Italian sun isn’t just uncomfortable – it’s a waste of your vacation time. That’s where skip-the-line tickets come to the rescue.
Invest in these time-saving passes for popular sites like St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace. Not only will you breeze past the long lines, but you’ll also ensure you don’t miss out on must-see attractions due to sold-out tickets.
If there’s one tip about visiting Venice, it’s to book skip-the-line tickets. Many skip-the-line options include guided tours, offering invaluable insights into Venice’s rich history and culture. Book these in advance, especially during busy summer or Carnival season.
Don’t Wear the Wrong Shoes
Venice’s charm lies in its ancient architecture and winding streets, but let me tell you in advance that these very features can be treacherous for the unprepared. The city’s “calle” (streets) often have uneven surfaces, and you’ll encounter numerous bridges with steps. Combine this with the amount of walking you’ll likely do, and you’ve got a sore foot if you’re not careful.
Leave your flip-flops and high heels at home. Instead, pack comfortable, well-fitting walking shoes with good support and non-slip soles. Waterproof options are a bonus, especially if you’re visiting during acqua alta (high water) season.
Your feet will thank you as you explore Venice’s hidden corners and grand piazzas without discomfort or risk of injury. Remember, a comfortable traveler is a happy traveler!
Don’t Fall for Tourist Trap Restaurants
Venice’s culinary scene is a treasure trove of delightful flavors, but not all restaurants are created equal. Beware of establishments advertising “Menu Turistico” or those offering an impossibly wide range of dishes from all over Italy. These are often telltale signs of tourist traps serving mediocre food at inflated prices.
Instead, seek out authentic Venetian eateries. Look for restaurants tucked away in quieter areas, frequented by locals. Check online reviews, aiming for places with ratings above 4 stars. Be prepared to pay a premium for dining near major landmarks, but remember that a short walk can often lead to better food at more reasonable prices.
Don’t be afraid to ask locals for recommendations – Venetians are often proud of their culinary heritage and happy to share their favorite spots.
Don’t Miss Out on Local Delicacies
Venice’s cuisine is a reflection of its unique lagoon environment and rich history. Skipping local specialties would be a culinary crime! The city is renowned for its seafood dishes, thanks to its close relationship with the Adriatic Sea.
Try baccalà (salted cod), a Venetian staple prepared in various ways. Sample the ink-black risotto al nero di seppia, flavored with cuttlefish ink. For this tip, we suggest a quick lunch and indulge in cicchetti – basically tapas in Venice. These small bites come in countless varieties and are perfect for a light meal accompanied by a glass of local wine.
Don’t forget to try bigoli in salsa, a pasta dish with onions and salt-cured fish, or fegato alla veneziana, Venetian-style liver with onions. These authentic dishes will give you a true taste of Venice’s culinary heritage.
Don’t Limit Yourself to Tourist Hotspots
While St. Mark’s Square and the Rialto Bridge are undoubtedly impressive, Venice has so much more to offer beyond these famous landmarks. The city is a labyrinth of canals, hidden squares, and lesser-known neighborhoods waiting to be discovered.
Venture into districts like Cannaregio or Dorsoduro to experience a more local side of Venice. These areas offer a glimpse into everyday Venetian life, away from the tourist crowds. Explore the Jewish Ghetto, the world’s first, with its unique architecture and rich history.
Visit the colorful island of Burano, which is famous for its lace-making tradition and vibrant houses. Each bridge you cross and every narrow alley you wander down in Venice holds the potential for a postcard-perfect view or an unexpected discovery.
Don’t Forget Your Vaporetto Pass
The vaporetto, Venice’s water bus system, is not just a mode of transport – it’s an experience in itself. Investing in a vaporetto pass for the duration of your stay is a smart move that’ll save you money and enhance your Venetian adventure.
With a pass, you can hop on and off at will, exploring different parts of the city and the lagoon islands with ease. It’s the perfect way to see Venice from the water and offers views of grand palazzos lining the Grand Canal.
Use it to visit Murano, famous for its glassmaking, or to reach quieter residential areas of the city. The vaporetto is also a gift from the heavens when your feet need a break from walking. Just remember to validate your pass before each journey!
Don’t Skip Murano and Burano
Speaking of islands, Murano and Burano are two gems in the Venetian lagoon that shouldn’t be missed. Each offers a distinct experience that complements your Venice visit perfectly.
Murano, world-renowned for its glassmaking tradition, allows you to witness skilled artisans at work. Watch in awe as they transform molten glass into intricate sculptures and delicate chandeliers. The island is dotted with shops selling authentic Murano glass – a perfect place to pick up a unique souvenir.
Burano, on the other hand, is a photographer’s dream. Its rows of brightly colored houses create a cheerful, almost fairytale-like atmosphere. The island is also famous for its lace-making tradition. Visit the Lace Museum to learn about this intricate craft, or shop for handmade lace products. Both islands offer a peaceful retreat from the bustle of central Venice and provide insight into traditional Venetian crafts.
Don’t Feed the Pigeons
It might seem like a quintessential Venice experience – standing in St. Mark’s Square, surrounded by fluttering pigeons. However, feeding these birds is now strictly forbidden, and for good reason.
Pigeon feeding was banned to protect the city’s historic buildings and monuments from damage caused by bird droppings. It’s also a matter of public health and cleanliness. Violating this rule can result in a hefty fine, dampening your vacation.
Instead of feeding the pigeons, admire the square’s stunning architecture or enjoy a coffee at one of the historic cafes. Remember the saying, “When in Rome, do as the Romans do.” Even though you’re not exactly in Rome…you get the idea.
Don’t Swim in the Canals
Venice’s canals might look inviting, especially on hot summer days, but swimming in them is absolutely prohibited. I can’t believe I must emphasize it, but this rule exists for several reasons.
Firstly, the canals’ water quality is poor, with high levels of pollution that could pose health risks. Secondly, the canals are busy waterways with constant boat traffic, so swimming is extremely dangerous. Lastly, it’s against the law, and you could face significant fines if caught. In 2019, two German tourists were fined nearly $800 for swimming in the Grand Canal near the Rialto Bridge.
Just enjoy the canals from a gondola or vaporetto instead – it’s safer, legal, and offers a much better view of the city!
Don’t Sit and Eat on the Ground
While picnicking might seem like a budget-friendly option, sitting on the ground to eat in Venice’s public spaces is frowned upon and can result in fines. This rule is part of the city’s efforts to maintain its historic areas and manage the impact of mass tourism.
Instead of eating on the go, take the opportunity to experience Venice’s food culture properly. Try a traditional bacaro (Venetian wine bar) for cicchetti and a spritz, or find a local trattoria for a sit-down meal.
If you’re on a budget, look for “tavola calda” establishments offering reasonably priced pre-prepared meals. Dining in Venice is not just about sustenance – it’s part of the cultural experience.
Don’t Buy from Unlicensed Street Vendors
Venice’s streets are often lined with vendors selling everything from knockoff handbags to “flying” toys. While these might seem like cheap souvenirs, purchasing from unlicensed street vendors is illegal and can result in fines for both the seller and the buyer.
Moreover, these items are often of poor quality and don’t represent the rich artisanal traditions of Venice. Instead, support local craftsmen by buying authentic Venetian products. Visit a traditional mask-making workshop, pick up genuine Murano glass, or purchase handmade lace from Burano.
These might be pricier, but they’re genuine pieces of Venetian craft that will serve as meaningful mementos for your trip.
Don’t Be Rude to Locals
Venice welcomes millions of tourists annually, which sometimes leads to tension between visitors and residents. Remember that Venice is not just a tourist attraction – it’s a living, breathing city where people work and live.
Be respectful of local customs and way of life. Keep noise levels down, especially in residential areas and late at night. Learn a few basic Italian phrases – even a simple “grazie” (thank you) can go a long way.
Be patient and understanding if things move at a slower pace than you’re used to. Venetians are generally warm and welcoming, and treating them with respect will greatly enhance your experience of the city.
Don’t Litter
Venice’s beauty is fragile, and preserving it requires effort from both residents and visitors. Littering is unsightly and can cause serious environmental issues in this unique lagoon city.
Always dispose of your trash in designated bins. If you can’t find one nearby, hold onto your rubbish until you do. Be especially careful not to let any waste end up in the canals.
The city imposes hefty fines for littering, but beyond that, it’s about respecting the environment and the city that’s hosting you. Leave Venice as beautiful as you found it for future generations to enjoy.
Tips & Tricks for a Memorable Venice Visit
To truly experience Venice like a local, try to get lost in the city’s maze-like streets. Some of the best discoveries happen when you venture off the beaten path. Wake up early to see the city come to life, with locals going about their daily routines. Visit the Rialto fish market in the morning for a glimpse into Venetian culinary culture. Consider a cicchetti tour to sample a variety of local snacks and wines. Learn about Venice’s masked carnival tradition by taking a mask-making workshop.
Explore the city’s contemporary side at the Peggy Guggenheim Collection or during the Biennale art exhibition. Finally, don’t forget to enjoy a sunset from the Accademia Bridge or a quiet campo (square) away from the crowds.
Here’s a useful table of essential Italian phrases for your Venice trip:
English | Italian | Pronunciation |
Hello | Ciao | chow |
Please | Per favore | pehr fah-voh-reh |
Thank you | Grazie | grah-tsee-eh |
You’re welcome | Prego | preh-goh |
Excuse me | Scusi | skoo-zee |
Do you speak English? | Parla inglese? | par-la een-gleh-seh |
Where is…? | Dov’è…? | doh-veh |
How much? | Quanto costa? | kwan-toh kos-ta |
Goodbye | Arrivederci | ah-ree-veh-der-chee |
Embrace the Magic of Venice
Venice is a city like no other, a place where history, art, and culture blend seamlessly with the ebb and flow of the tides. You’ll set yourself up for an authentic Venetian experience if you just simply avoid these common mistakes.
Remember to stay overnight, pack light, savor local cuisine, and explore beyond the tourist hotspots. Respect the city, its residents, and its unique environment.
So go ahead, lose yourself in Venice’s labyrinthine streets, indulge in its culinary delights, and let the city’s timeless charm work its magic on you. Your Venetian adventure awaits!
Andrea was born and raised in Northern Italy. At the age of 30, he moved to Vancouver Canada. Over the years he traveled extensively in North America, Europe, Central America, and Asia. He is passionate about traveling, cruising, and travel photography. He likes to write about his traveling and shows his travel photos.