Venice Travel Guide: Your Passport to La Serenissima

Venice, La Serenissima, the most serene of cities, is like no other place on earth. A jewel in Italy’s crown, this city of canals and romance, whispers of history and echoes of the past, deserves a spot on every traveler’s bucket list.

Imagine cruising the Grand Canal as the sun sets, the soft lull of the water beneath you, and centuries-old palaces sliding past. Or getting lost in the winding alleys, where each turn brings a new surprise, a secluded piazza, a stunning vista, or a hidden bacaro.

Despite being a major European hotspot, an intimate charm pervades Venice. Every bridge crossed, every vaporetto ride, every ‘Buongiorno’ exchanged with the locals immerses you deeper into the Venetian way of life. This floating city promises unique experiences you’ll cherish long after your trip to Venice, Italy.

In this Venice Travel Guide, you’ll discover:

• Why a trip to Venice, Italy, should be on your bucket list.
• The challenges of over-tourism in Venice and how to balance them with the city’s romantic charm.
• Tips to avoid the crowds in Venice, including exploring hidden gems like the outer islands of Murano and Torcello.
• Strategies for making the most of your Venice vacation by exploring beyond the city center.
• A list of the top things to see and do in Venice, from iconic landmarks like Piazza San Marco to lesser-known attractions.
• Detailed information on Venice travel costs and money-saving tips.
• Insightful tips on getting around Venice, including an overview of the Vaporetto system and water taxis.
• Suggestions on the best time to visit Venice, considering factors like crowd levels, weather, and local events.
• Essential safety tips for your trip to Venice, with a special focus on issues like petty theft and flooding risks.
• Recommended booking resources to help you plan and book every aspect of your Venice trip, from flights and accommodation to tours and excursions.

Stay tuned for a comprehensive, insightful, and personal guide to planning your dream trip to Venice, Italy.

Balancing the Romantic Charm and Challenges of Overtourism

Venice’s popularity comes at a cost. In peak season, the city can seem more like a bustling carnival than the tranquil retreat that it’s often painted as. The tight-knit network of islands often reels under the impact of over-tourism.

But, fear not! As seasoned travelers, we’ll share with you some tried-and-tested ways to experience the beauty of Venice and dodge the most crowded areas. Get ready to unravel the lesser-known, yet equally enchanting, aspects of the city!

Tips for Avoiding Crowds

Discovering Venice’s Hidden Gems: Outer Islands Like Burano and Murano

Looking for a Venice travel guide that takes you off the beaten track? Look no further. One of the best ways to escape the crowds is by exploring the outer islands of the Venetian Lagoon. Take a vaporetto to Murano, known worldwide for its exquisite glass-making traditions. You can watch the master glass-blowers at work and even bring home a colorful souvenir.

Hop on to another boat to visit Burano, the rainbow island. Here, each house is painted a different vibrant color, making it a photographer’s dream. This quiet island is also famous for its colorful buildings and delicate handmade lace.

Explore the desolate and quiet Torcello island and to experience a place like no other in the Venetian Lagoon. With only 12 people living on the island, it makes for a great escape from the touristy crowds most people experience when visiting Venice.

Making the Most of Your Venice Vacation: Exploring Beyond the City Center

While the allure of iconic landmarks found within St. Mark’s Square, like St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace, is undeniable, the real charm of Venice often lies beyond the San Marco city center.

Spend a day getting lost in the quieter sestieri (districts) like Cannaregio or Santa Croce. Here, you’ll discover local markets, traditional eateries, and stunning, crowd-free vistas of the canals.

Visiting Venice, Italy, doesn’t have to be a whirlwind race through overcrowded tourist spots. It can be a leisurely, intimate exploration of the city’s lesser-known treasures. After all, in Venice, the journey truly is the destination.

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Venice

Immerse in the Cultural Heritage: Visit Basilica San Marco

The Basilica di San Marco, often referred to as the “golden basilica,” is not only a testament to Venice’s rich history but also a shining example of Byzantine art and architecture. The five domes and shimmering gold mosaics adorning the basilica represent a fascinating fusion of Eastern and Western architectural styles.

The spectacular mosaic floor, made from marble and glass, is a geometric wonder that catches the eye of every visitor.

The Basilica’s museum is an underrated gem, housing precious artifacts and providing a rare chance to view the original Quadriga – a set of Roman bronze statues depicting four horses that once graced the basilica’s exterior.

Climbing to the museum also gives you access to the outdoor loggia where you can enjoy stunning views over the Piazza San Marco.

After the crowds leave, you can also take an exclusive guided tour of St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace.

Iconic Landmarks: Exploring the Rialto Bridge

No visit to Venice is complete without witnessing the architectural marvel that is the Rialto Bridge. One of the most iconic symbols of the city, Venice’s most famous bridge spans the Grand Canal and offers an unforgettable view of the waterway’s lively traffic of gondolas and vaporettos.

Built in the late 16th century, the bridge is not merely a scenic viewpoint but also houses a bustling marketplace teeming with shops selling local wares, from jewelry to Murano glass souvenirs.

Crossing the bridge is like walking through a microcosm of Venetian life, offering both picturesque scenery, fantastic views, and a slice of the city’s vibrant culture.

A Glimpse of Royalty: Touring the Doge’s Palace

Step back in time to Venice’s golden age with a visit to the Doge’s Palace. The palace served as the residence of the Doge (the ruler of Venice), as well as the city’s center of government and court.

Inside, the grandeur unfolds in rooms adorned with works by Tintoretto, Veronese, and other master Venetian painters. The palace’s highlight is perhaps the ornate Grand Council Chamber, boasting the largest oil painting in the world, Tintoretto’s “Paradiso”.

Don’t forget to walk through the infamous Bridge of Sighs, which links the palace with the prison. The famous bridge once offered convicts their last view of Venice before their imprisonment, hence the “sighs.”

There’s also a fantastic Secret Itineraries Tour of Doge’s Palace that we took earlier this year that explored rooms and areas that are off limits to tourists.

Experiencing Venice’s Most Anticipated Event: The Carnival

Should your visit align with Venice’s annual Carnival, you’re in for a truly unique spectacle. This world-famous festival dates back to the Middle Ages and is best known for the participants’ elaborate masks and costumes, filling the city with a sense of magic and mystery.

Aside from the visual spectacle, the Carnival offers a range of events, from grand masquerade balls to street performances, making the city even more enchanting than it already is.

The festival’s highlight is the “Volo dell’Angelo” or “Flight of the Angel,” where a person zip-lines from the Campanile di San Marco into the crowded Piazza, marking the official start of festivities.

A Colorful Escape: Day Trip to Burano

Escape the city hustle with a day trip to Burano. Famous for its brightly colored fishermen’s houses and lace making, Burano is an Instagrammer’s paradise and a delightful retreat from the crowds. Just be aware that it can get a little crowded in the middle of the day and evening, so try to take a day trip that starts earlier in the morning.

Additional Things to See and Do

Immersive Experience: Take a Walking Tour

Discover the city from the perspective of a local by embarking on a walking food and wine tour of Venice. With fresh cicchetti, food, and wine in hand, you’ll navigate winding alleyways, charming bridges, and picturesque canals as a knowledgeable guide provides insights into Venice’s history, architecture, and culture.

You’ll not only visit major landmarks but also explore off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods, unearthing hidden gems that most tourists miss. With tales of ancient legends and the current Venetian lifestyle, a walking tour offers a nuanced understanding of this magical city.

Marvel at Venice’s Living Room: Wander Piazza San Marco

Often referred to as Venice’s living room, Piazza San Marco is an architectural masterpiece that buzzes with life.

Home to significant landmarks like Basilica San Marco, Doge’s Palace, and Campanile di San Marco, the square itself is an open-air museum of Venetian history and style.

Enjoy a cup of coffee at Caffè Florian, Italy’s oldest café, while you soak in the ambiance of the square.

Pigeon feeding, a long-standing tradition in the piazza, adds to the charming tableau.

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Seaside Solace: Visit Lido Island

Craving a beach break? Lido Island, Venice’s celebrity filled beach town, offers a tranquil escape from the city’s bustling tourist spots. This thin strip of land between the Adriatic Sea and the Venetian Lagoon boasts beautiful sandy beaches perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or just lazing around.

Hire a bike and explore the island’s Art Nouveau villas and tranquil streets or enjoy delicious seafood in its many restaurants.

Lido also hosts the prestigious Venice Film Festival every year.

Journey to the Glass Island: Explore Murano Island

Hop on a vaporetto to Murano Island, world-renowned for its glassmaking heritage. Witness master craftsmen transform molten glass into intricate pieces of art, a traditional practice that dates back to the 10th century.

The Glass Museum on the island chronicles the evolution of glassmaking and displays an exquisite collection of glass artifacts. Don’t miss the chance to purchase unique glass jewelry, vases, or chandeliers as souvenirs.

Dive into Local Life at Rialto Market

Experience a slice of everyday Venetian life at the vibrant Rialto Market. This bustling market brims with fresh produce, from fruits and vegetables to a diverse range of seafood, reflecting Venice’s lagoon bounty.

The sights and sounds of locals bargaining, the aroma of fresh food, and the colorful displays create an engaging atmosphere. The Rialto Market is an ideal place to sample local delicacies or pick up ingredients for a self-catered Venetian meal.

Contemporary Art Showcase: Tour Peggy Guggenheim Collection

Situated on the Grand Canal, the Peggy Guggenheim Collection is a modern art enthusiast’s dream. The museum, once the private residence of the American heiress Peggy Guggenheim, boasts an eclectic mix of artwork from the most significant artistic movements of the 20th century.

Marvel at masterpieces from the likes of Picasso, Kandinsky, Dalí, Pollock, and many more. The tranquil sculpture garden and terrace overlooking the Grand Canal offer a serene setting to ponder the contemporary art pieces.

This art museum is not just about the great art on the walls but also about the story of a woman who dedicated her life to art and artists.

A Panorama of Venice: Climb St. Mark’s Bell Tower

Offering the most breathtaking views over Venice, climbing the Campanile di San Marco is a must-do activity.

The bell tower, standing at nearly 100 meters tall in the center of St. Mark’s Square, provides panoramic views of the city’s red roofs, winding canals, and the sprawling lagoon, extending to the Dolomite mountains on clear days.

Originally built in the 9th century as a watchtower, the Campanile is the city’s highest structure, and a ride up to its viewing platform is an experience you won’t want to miss.

The Rowing Spectacle: Watch Vogalonga

Join in on the city’s annual celebration of its maritime heritage by participating in or observing the Vogalonga, a 30-kilometer rowing event through Venice’s canals and the lagoon.

This non-competitive “long row” is open to any rowing vessel and draws participants from all over the world. Whether you’re rowing or cheering from the sidelines, the Vogalonga offers a fantastic way to appreciate Venice’s historic connection to the water.

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Delve into History: Visit the National Archaeological Museum

Venture into the world of ancient civilizations at Venice’s National Archaeological Museum. The museum holds a vast collection of Greek and Roman sculptures, bronze artifacts, ceramics, gems, and coins, as well as a notable Egyptian antiquities section.

The museum’s highlights include the gem collection of the Duke of Aosta, a collection of exquisite cameos, and ancient glass sculptures collected by Venetian nobles during their Grand Tour.

Artistic Pursuit: Check Out Correr Museum

Immerse yourself in Venetian art and history at the Correr Museum.

Located at the opposite end of Piazza San Marco from the Basilica, the museum houses extensive collections that reflect Venice’s civic life, art, and history.

Notable exhibits include the Napoleonic Wing, showcasing rooms once occupied by Napoleon and later by the Austrian Royal Family, and the Picture Gallery, boasting a rich collection of works by Venetian artists from the 13th to 16th centuries.

Embrace Fine Art: Peruse Galleria dell’Accademia

Housed in the former Santa Maria della Carità church complex, the Galleria dell’Accademia is a treasure trove of Venetian paintings from the 14th to the 18th centuries.

This world-renowned gallery takes you on a chronological journey through Venice’s rich art history, featuring magnificent works by artists like Titian, Bellini, Tintoretto, and Veronese. Among its highlights is Vitruvian Man, a famous sketch by Leonardo da Vinci, displayed only occasionally due to its fragility.

The Galleria dell’Accademia is an absolute must-visit for any art lover, providing most visitors a unique opportunity to appreciate Venice’s contribution to the world of fine art.

Unearth the Past: Explore the Jewish Ghetto

Step back in time by visiting the Jewish Ghetto in Venice, the world’s first ghetto. This historic district was the area where Jews were forced to live during the Venetian Republic. Today, it remains the vibrant center of the Jewish community in Venice.

The Museo Ebraico, or Jewish Museum, located here provides a detailed narrative about Jewish heritage and Venetian Jewish history through a collection of religious and cultural artifacts.

Five historic synagogues, or ‘schole,’ still stand here, each a testament to the endurance of Jewish culture despite past hardships. The guided tour of the area offers a profound understanding of the centuries-old Jewish presence in Venice.

Savor Venice: Take a Food Tour

No visit to Venice would be complete without savoring its unique and diverse cuisine. Embark on a food tour to enjoy the full spectrum of Venetian culinary delights.

Guided by a local, you’ll meander through local markets, past traditional bacari (wine bars), and into historic osterie (restaurants), tasting local delicacies like cicchetti (Venetian tapas), risotto, and fresh seafood along the way.

Pair your food with local wines for an enhanced gastronomic experience. Not only will a food tour satiate your taste buds, but it will also enrich your understanding of Venice’s history, culture, and traditions through the medium of food. This culinary journey is indeed the perfect way to end your day in Venice.

Venice Travel Costs

Housing Options and Prices: From Luxury to Budget-Friendly Accommodations

Venice offers a range of accommodations catering to all budgets.

For a taste of luxury, stay at a 5-star hotel overlooking the Grand Canal, where prices typically range from €300-€800 per night.

Mid-range hotels, offering comfortable stays with standard amenities, are available in lesser-touristed neighborhoods like Cannaregio and Castello, with prices around €100-€200 per night.

Budget travelers can opt for hostels and budget hotels that offer rooms as low as €20-€50 per night. For a more local experience, consider renting an apartment through platforms like Airbnb, where you can find a wide range of options and prices.

Taste of Venice: Average Cost of Food and Dining Options

Dining in Venice can range from moderately expensive to high-end.

Expect to pay around €15-€25 for a meal at an inexpensive restaurant, while a three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant can cost you between €40 and €60 per person, excluding drinks. Dining at a high-end restaurant can easily cost over €100 per person. Casual dining options include cicchetti bars where you can sample local tapas-like dishes for €1-€3 per piece. Pizzas and paninis are other budget-friendly options, typically costing around €5-€10.

If you want a good place to start, we wrote a guide to the 25 best restaurants in Venice and broke them down by neighborhood.

Budget Travel Tips for Backpackers: Traveling to Venice on a Shoestring

Traveling to Venice on a budget is achievable with a few smart strategies. Stay in a hostel or budget hotel, or consider an apartment rental if you’re traveling in a group. Dine at cicchetti bars or grab a slice of pizza from a takeaway place to save on meals. Walk or use public transport instead of gondolas or water taxis. Lastly, take advantage of free attractions and cheaper off-season travel.

Money-Saving Tips

A Taste of Home: Cooking Your Own Meals

If you’re staying in a place with a kitchen, consider cooking your own meals. Shopping at local markets like the historic Rialto Market can be a fun and economical way to experience local food culture while also saving on dining costs.

Walk and Explore: The Best Way to See Venice

Walking is not only the most cost-effective way to explore Venice but also the best. The city is relatively small, and getting lost in its labyrinth of alleys and canals is a quintessential Venice experience. Walking is also a great way to discover hidden gems that you might otherwise miss.

Smart Travel: Using Discount Vaporetto Tickets

Opt for discount vaporetto (public water bus) tickets if you plan to use public transportation frequently. Buying a travel card for unlimited water bus rides over a set number of days can be more cost-effective than individual tickets.

Smart Savings: Getting Combined Museum Passes or the Venezia Unica Pass

Consider purchasing a combined museum pass or the Venezia Unica City Pass, which offers discounted or free access to many museums and attractions, depending on the option chosen. This pass also includes public transport, so you can save on getting around too.

Local Drinks: Buying Your Own Beverages

Buying your own drinks from supermarkets can save a considerable amount compared to drinking in bars or restaurants. Plus, you can enjoy your drink while sitting along a canal or in one of the city’s many beautiful squares, providing a unique Venetian experience.

The last time I was in Venice with my wife, we found Enoteca La Fiaschetteria srls a small winery in Canaregio that has the most delicious and affordable wine available in the city. Seriously, pay them a visit.

Getting Around Venice

Navigating the Waters: Using the Vaporetto System for Transportation

Venice’s vaporetto system is the public transportation of choice for both locals and tourists. With 19 routes crisscrossing the city’s canals and lagoons, the vaporetto allows visitors to get to almost any point in the city and Venice’s outer islands like Murano, Burano, and Lido.

A single ticket costs €7.50 (as of writing) and is valid for 75 minutes from validation. For frequent travelers, a travel card or day pass offering unlimited rides over a certain number of days may be a cost-effective choice.

Luxury on Water: Water Taxis as a Pricier Option

For a more personalized and faster, albeit pricier, travel option, water taxis are available. These private motorboats can accommodate small or large groups and provide a convenient way to get to your exact destination.

However, with fares typically starting around €70, they’re much more expensive than the vaporetto.

It’s important to agree on the price before starting the journey.

Best Time to Visit Venice

Weighing the Options: Summer Crowds vs. High Prices

Venice is a popular destination year-round, but the summer months can be particularly crowded. Summer also brings higher prices for accommodations and flights. While the weather is typically warm and sunny, the city can be uncomfortable due to the humidity and the number of tourists.

Ideal Seasons: Spring and Fall

Spring and fall are generally considered the best times to visit Venice. These shoulder seasons offer milder weather and fewer tourists, making it a more comfortable time to explore. Additionally, prices for accommodations and flights are usually lower than during the peak summer months.

Navigating the Acqua Alta (Flooding) In Autumn and Winter

Autumn and winter in Venice can be marked by acqua alta, or high water, which causes flooding in Venice. If you’re visiting during these times, be prepared for possible disruptions to transportation and attractions. Platforms called ‘passarelle’ are set up for pedestrians during flooding, and it can be quite an experience to see the city in this unique state.

A Festive Time: Carnival Season in February

If you can time your visit to coincide with the Carnival in February, you’re in for a real treat. This festive season brings the city alive with elaborate costumes, masquerade balls, parades, and unique events. However, this is also a popular time to visit, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.

Safety Tips

Avoiding Petty Theft and Pick Pocketing Concerns

Like many popular tourist destinations, Venice has its share of petty crime. Keep your valuables safe and secure, avoid displaying expensive items in public, and always be aware of your surroundings. Carry only essential items when you’re out and about.

Beware of Scams: Tips for Safe Traveling

Venice is generally a safe city, but it’s always good to be aware of potential scams. Be cautious of overly friendly strangers or anyone offering “free” gifts. Remember that legitimate businesses will clearly display prices, so avoid any establishments that don’t.

For Solo Female Travelers: Safety First

Venice is generally safe for solo female travelers. However, it’s advisable to follow standard safety precautions like avoiding deserted areas late at night and always informing someone of your whereabouts. Keep your belongings close to you and be aware of your surroundings.

Be Prepared: Dealing With Acqua Alta (Flooding) Risks

During the acqua alta season, be prepared for potential flooding. Stay updated with weather forecasts, and plan your itineraries accordingly. Always heed local advice and follow established safety procedures during these times.

Important Emergency Contact Information for a Safe Venice Trip

In case of emergencies, it’s good to have important numbers at hand.

• The general emergency number in Italy is 112.
• For medical emergencies, dial 118.
• For fire emergencies, dial 115.

Recommended Booking Resources

The companies I’ve listed here are my top picks when it comes to travel. Their offerings consistently outshine the competition in terms of value for money, quality of service, and exceptional customer service. These companies form the foundation of my search for travel deals, given their reliability and excellence that I have personally experienced numerous times.

Best Flights Deals with Skyscanner

Skyscanner is an excellent resource for finding the best flight deals. The website compares prices across various airlines and booking sites, helping you secure the best possible price.

Affordable Hostels with Hostelworld

For budget travelers, Hostelworld offers a range of affordable hostel options in Venice. The platform provides detailed descriptions, reviews, and ratings to help you choose the right place for your next stay in venice.

Varied Accommodation Options with Booking.com

Booking.com provides a wide variety of accommodation options in Venice. From budget hostels to luxury hotels, you can find something that suits your budget and preferences.

Cheap Flights with Going.com

Going.com searches for cheap and rare flights and will notify you when one matches your home airport and a destination of your choice. We scored a non-stop, roundtrip flight from Newark (EWR) to Milan-Malpensa (MXP) for $359 in 2021 and then again from Philadelphia (PHL) to Marco Polo Airport (VCE) for $475 in 2023.

Hostelpass for Budget-Friendly Stays

HostelPass can help you save money on your accommodation. With a single flat fee, you can stay in hostels in Venice and other European cities.

Plan Your Excursions with Get Your Guide

Get Your Guide offers a range of guided tours and activities in Venice. Whether you want a guided tour of St. Mark’s Basilica or a cooking class, you can find it here.

Efficient Train Travel in Italy with Trainline

Trainline can help you navigate Italy’s extensive train system and get you to Venice’s Santa Lucia train and bus station. It’s an efficient way to travel between cities if you’re planning to visit more of Italy during your trip.

Pocket-Sized Wisdom: Venice Travel Guide 2023 Book

For an in-depth guide to Venice, consider purchasing the Venice Travel Guide 2023. It’s packed with useful information, tips, and maps to help you make the most of your visit.

Sustainable Tourism: LifeStraw for Reusable Water Bottles

Help keep Venice beautiful by practicing sustainable tourism. Consider investing in a reusable water bottle with a built-in filter like LifeStraw. It’s eco-friendly and ensures you have safe drinking water wherever you go.

Walks of Italy for Culturally Rich Walking Tours

For a deep dive into Venice’s rich history and culture, consider booking a walking tour with Walks of Italy. The guides are knowledgeable, and the tours offer a great way to explore the city on foot while visiting the main sites and top attractions.

Final Words About Visiting Venice

Venice, with its maze of canals, rich history, and vibrant culture, is a city that promises a unique experience unlike any other. It effortlessly bridges the gap between the past and the present, immersing visitors in a tapestry of art, architecture, and authentic Italian cuisine.

Be it a romantic gondola ride under the Bridge of Sighs, exploring the myriad of artifacts in the Doge’s Palace, or simply getting lost amidst the picturesque Venetian streets, Venice caters to every kind of traveler.

With this comprehensive guide, you’re now equipped with all the insights and tips to make your Venetian journey truly unforgettable. So, get ready to embark on a trip of a lifetime, as the ‘Floating City’ awaits to enrapture you with its eternal charm.