Visiting Venice: A Guide to the Floating City
It’s one of the most familiar destinations on the planet, yet also one of the most alien. Venice is a constant conundrum: how do I see the best of it? How do I avoid destroying it? Is it possible to have a local experience? What do I need to know before traveling to Venice?
I’ve lived in Venice since 2020, and these are questions I still ask myself. This is a fiercely fragile city facing unique challenges, a place where tourism is largely destructive, and Venetians respond by getting ever more insular. Traveling here is a delicate balance between sightseeing and preserving; enjoying and respecting.
Moreover, it means sacrificing some things you might do without a thought in other places—like impromptu picnics or dawdling in the street to take photos. Some challenges are greater—this is intrinsically not an accessible city, and anyone with mobility issues will struggle.
However, the rewards are immense. Spend enough time here to really scratch the surface and you’ll gain privileged access to a world that few people have visited, despite this being one of the world’s most visited cities. Here are my dos and don’ts when visiting Venice.
1. Pick the Right Route from the Airport
One floating city, three ways to get in from the airport. The chi-chiest way is by water taxi, which will whisk you from the airport’s pontoon area straight to your hotel (or as near as it can get, depending on the canals). However, it’s pricey—think €130 and up.
The Alilaguna ferry has various routes and stops around the city center—at €16, it’s much cheaper, and the views are the same. Finally, you can get a coach or bus to Piazzale Roma, the road terminus on the edge of the city (€10). From there, walk or take a vaporetto (€9.50).
2. Know Your Boats
You’re going to be taking a lot of boats in Venice—here’s how to know which one to take. If you want to arrive by water, take the Alilaguna ferry—a private company with different routes and stops around the city. Your main routes will be with the public transport company ACTV. This runs the vaporetti—waterbuses—in and around town. If you’ll be using them a lot, it’s worth getting a timed pass rather than paying by the ride.
There are also water taxis—slinky private rides that whisk you around like any other taxi, only for about 10 times the price of a car. And, of course, there are gondolas, for those romantic rides along the water.
3. But Don’t Live Your Life Through the Vaporetto Map
A prime mistake visitors make is seeing Venice through its vaporetto map and calculating the nearest stop to places you’re going. It’s understandable—but unnecessary. Often, it’s quicker and cheaper to walk, since the vaporetti are so expensive.
4. Take Your Time
Many people don’t like Venice, often because they didn’t stay long. Pop in on a day trip and you may feel overwhelmed by the crowds. Stay longer, and a different side of the city will open up. In fact, spending at least a week is the best way to explore Venice.
5. Plan Your Journeys
Venice is no ordinary city, and public transport is no exception. If you’re used to constant services, be aware that some vaporetto lines shut down before 9pm. Download the CheBateo? app for timetables and journey planning, so you know when to catch your ride.
6. Don’t Drive to Venice
You know, of course, that there are no cars in Venice. If you really want to park near the city center, consider parking at Tronchetto before Piazzale Roma, where there’s a vast car park. Better still, park near the train station at Mestre on the mainland, and take a 10-minute train to Venice.
7. Check the Tide
Having an app on your phone that checks the tide level was once essential in Venice. Since the MOSE flood barriers came into action during the pandemic, the city is less prone to regular flooding. However, some areas, like St Mark’s Square, can still get wet during high tides.
8. Pack a Bathing Suit
In the summer months, Venice can become hot and sticky. Pack a bathing suit and, whenever it gets too much, hop on a vaporetto to the Lido, where you’ll find miles of soft, sandy beach.
9. Accessible Venice
Venice isn’t the most accessible city, but it’s worth exploring options if you have mobility issues. Many main sights can be reached via vaporetto. The city authorities have a list of suggested itineraries for wheelchair users.
10. Dress Right
While you’re on vacation, practical clothing is vital in Venice. Avoid flip-flops, as you’ll do a lot of walking. If you plan on entering churches, ensure your shoulders and knees are covered. The most important accessory? Insect repellent.
11. Walk on the Right
As a pedestrianized city, Venice has unwritten rules. Walk on the right, overtake on the left, and avoid stopping in narrow streets. Think of these walkways as real roads, and you’ll glide seamlessly through.
12. Don’t Get Fined
Venice isn’t a theme park, and fines for “bad behavior” are common. Activities like sitting on pavements or feeding birds can lead to hefty penalties. Always be mindful of your actions to avoid fines.
13. Make Sure it is an Artisan Product
When shopping for locally made products, note the price—if it’s cheap, it’s likely not handmade. Artisan shops usually focus on a specific specialty. Most artisans are eager to discuss their craft, offering insight into their work.
14. Enjoy Local Fare and Keep Meals Affordable
Venice is notorious for its high costs; however, it’s famous for inexpensive bar snacks known as cicchetti. These quick bites are perfect for a local experience without breaking the bank.
15. Learn Food Rules
Italy has specific food etiquette, such as avoiding cappuccino after 11am. Venice has its own traditions; try polenta or rice dishes, as pasta and pizza are not the traditional specialties here.
16. Stand Up at the Bar
Avoid paying additional seating fees by enjoying your coffee or croissant at the bar. This practice not only saves money but also allows you to savor the local atmosphere.
17. Respect the Priority Lines for Residents
Some vaporetto stops have separate turnstiles marked for residents. Be respectful and let locals board first, as they deal with the crowds daily.
18. Keep Your Valuables Secure
While Venice is generally safe, incidents are rising. Beware of pickpockets and never leave valuables in your car if you’ve parked to visit the city.
19. Know About Tourist Prices
“Tourist prices” are a common occurrence in Venice, so always check the menu for prices before ordering. Being informed can help you avoid paying inflated amounts.
20. Buy from Local Vendors
When shopping for fresh produce, consider visiting a local greengrocer. This supports local businesses and allows you to sample unique offerings from the lagoon.
21. First Aid and Emergency Help
If you find yourself feeling unwell or injured, Venice has a hospital and several first aid centers staffed by doctors. In an emergency, calling 118 will connect you to assistance.
22. Respect Local Customs and Etiquette
Follow local customs to enhance your experience. Making an effort to understand and appreciate Venetian culture will enrich your visit.
