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Venice Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 23, 2023

With its iconic canals, picturesque gondolas, and winding streets, it’s no surprise that Venice is considered one of the most romantic cities in the world. But while the city is popular with honeymooners, it’s also a huge destination for cruisers and backpackers too.

It should be obvious as to why.

Venice is beautiful, fun, and full of narrow streets and alleys to get lost in. It’s a magical place unlike any other. There are museums, palaces, historic town squares to explore, and endless gelato to eat.

Unfortunately, the city is also expensive and overtourism has become a real problem. No matter what time of the year, you’re going to encounter crowds. In fact, if you come in the summer, it’s going to be unbearable (and if you come when a cruise ship is docked, it’s even more unbearable!)

But that doesn’t mean you should skip a visit!

You can avoid the crowds if you skirt around the center of the city and head to some of the outer islands like Burano and Morano. Tourists tend to cluster in a few places and are easy to escape.

This travel guide to Venice can help you beat the crowds, save money, and make the most of your time in this famous Italian city!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Venice

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Venice

1. Visit the Basilica San Marco

St. Mark’s Basilica is dedicated to the patron saint of the city and is located in the Piazza San Marco. While there has been a place of worship on this site since 820 CE, the current basilica was built in 1063. It’s filled with amazing 11th-century mosaics, marble-covered walls, statues, and five, gold-covered Byzantine domes. The High Altar also supposedly contains some of St. Mark’s remains. It’s 3 EUR to visit the basilica (or 6 EUR for a skip-the-line ticket). There are also a variety of combined entrance tickets depending on which attractions in the complex you want to visit. The Complete Basilica Ticket, which includes the Basilica, Pala d’Oro (golden altar), Museum, and Loggia Cavalli (terrace with views and other exhibits), costs 20 EUR, which includes skip-the-line entry. You can also do a guided tour after hours when the crowds have left with Walks of Italy for around 100 EUR.

2. Walk across Rialto Bridge

While it’s now one of four bridges that cross the Grand Canal, for centuries, the Rialto Bridge was the only way to get from one side to the other. Originally built as a floating bridge in the 12th century, it was first constructed for easier access to the Rialto Market (hence the bridge’s name). The current iteration of the bridge, completed in 1591, was created by Antonio da Ponte, who beat out Michelangelo for the job. The entire bridge is made of Istrian stone and crosses the Grand Canal at its narrowest point, connecting the San Polo and San Marco districts. To beat the crowds, come at sunrise.

3. Tour the Doge’s Palace

Located in St. Mark’s Square, Doge’s Palace is one of Venice’s main landmarks and was the home of the duke who ruled Venice. The massive building was originally built in the 14th century in the Venetian Gothic style, though it has been renovated, extended, and modified over the centuries. The interior is filled with artwork, gilded ceilings, and an armory. You can also descend into the prisons and cross the famous Bridge of Sighs. Admission is 26 EUR as part of the Combined Museums of San Marco ticket, which includes entrance to the Correr Civic Museum, the National Archaeological Museum, and the monumental rooms of the Marciana National Library.

4. Attend Carnival

Carnival is ten days of masquerade madness every February leading up to Mardi Gras, the day before the start of Lent on Ash Wednesday. The tradition goes back centuries, starting in the 12th century and reaching the height of popularity in the 18th century. The festival was on pause for nearly two centuries, starting in 1798 when the city was under Austrian rule (when masks were banned). It wasn’t until 1979 when Carnival was revived. Today, it is one of the biggest festivals in Italy , with millions of people attending every year. The iconic and diverse masks are a central part of the festivities and every year there is a contest for the most beautiful mask. If you have the funds, you can even pay to attend a traditional masquerade ball! (Book your accommodation early as the city fills up months in advance).

5. Day trip to Burano

Other things to see and do in venice, 1. take a walking tour.

The first thing I do when I arrive in a new city is take a free walking tour. It’s the best way to see the main sights on a budget while connecting with a local guide who can share their insider tips and advice. Venice Free Walking Tour runs regular free tours that cover all the highlights. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!

If you want to invest in your experience and take a more detailed walking tour, my favorite company is Take Walks . They have amazing walking tours and boat tours all around the city. They use expert local guides so you’ll not only have fun but you’ll learn a lot too!

2. Wander the Piazza San Marco

This is the most famous and largest piazza (city square) in Venice. The grand square has long been a popular meeting spot for Venetians and is home to many important city highlights, including the basilica, its bell tower, the Doges Palace, and the National Archaeological Museum. (You can visit all of these sights on a combined Piazza San Marco ticket, which costs 26 EUR). The Piazza is most impressive when approached from the water as you get a full sense of the scale and history of these antiquated buildings.

3. Head to the island of Lido

If you want to escape the city, Lido is a nearby island where people go to relax on the beach. There are lots of picturesque canals here, as well as restaurants, cafes, and bars. Every August, the world of cinema descends on Lido for the Venice Film Festival, the oldest and one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world. Lido is only a 20-minute vaporetto ride (water bus) from Venice. A round-trip ticket costs 10 EUR, or for 13 EUR you can get a round-trip ticket that can be used for the buses on Lido too.

4. Visit Murano Island

Close to Venice, this island is the home of the famous Murano glassblowers, who have been creating intricate glassworks here since 1291. Although Murano is filled with expensive souvenirs (avoid buying anything on the island if you’re on a budget!), you can still have an educational and fun afternoon learning and watching how the glass is blown. The Murano Glass Factory only costs 5 EUR, which includes the glass blowing demonstration and guided tour of the factory. To get to Murano, you can take the ferry for 8 EUR.

5. Wander the Rialto Market

The Rialto Market is Venice’s main market and it has been around for the past 700 years. It’s a huge food market with all kinds of meat, produce, and fish. Come in the morning before the market is flooded with tourists to watch all the hustle and bustle. You’ll find the market northwest of the Rialto Bridge in the district of San Polo.

6. Tour the Peggy Guggenheim Collection

This is the personal art collection of art collector Peggy Guggenheim, located in her former mansion along the banks of the Grand Canal. It is a massive, avant-garde collection of art with works from more than 200 artists. While modern art is not my favorite kind of art, there are countless pieces by surrealists, abstract expressionists, and Italian futurists that make this worth a visit. There’s also an outdoor sculpture garden. Admission is 16 EUR.

7. Climb the Campanile di San Marco

Built in 1912, this tower in Piazza San Marco is a replica of the original Bell Tower of St. Mark (which was built in the 16th century and collapsed in 1902). It said that every last detail of the structure is a match. Standing at almost 100 meters (328 feet) tall, it’s the tallest structure in Venice. The tower was originally constructed for defensive purposes so that watchmen could see ships coming in and out of the city. For 10 EUR, you can climb up through the inner workings and get a panoramic view of the city.

8. Watch the Vogalonga

The Vogalonga is a non-competitive 20-mile marathon rowing event held annually in May. This tradition originated in 1974 as a protest against the increasing amount of powerboats taking over Venice’s waters. Thousands of people from all over the world take part every year, in all different kinds of boats, including gondolas, kayaks, canoes, dragon boats, stand-up paddleboards, and more (some people even swim!). It’s incredible to watch and one of the biggest events of the year.

9. Visit the National Archaeological Museum

This museum was created in 1523 by Italian nobleman and cardinal, Domenico Grimani. Although it’s a small museum, the National Archaeological Museum’s collection of Greek sculptures, Roman busts, funerary stelae, and other relics date back as far as the 1st century BCE. Tickets are 26 EUR as part of the Combined Museums of Piazza San Marco (which includes entrance to the Doge’s Palace, the National Archaeological Museum, and the monumental rooms of the Marciana National Library).

10. Check out the Correr Civic Museum

The Correr Civic Museum includes an expansive collection of art and artifacts showcasing the city’s history, as well as works from the homes of former royals (including Napoleon Bonaparte). You can spend hours here viewing the frescoes, ancient maps, statues, religious paintings, and more. Tickets are 26 EUR as part of the Combined Museums of Piazza San Marco (which includes entrance to the Doge’s Palace, the National Archaeological Museum, and the monumental rooms of the Marciana National Library).

11. Peruse the art at the Galleria dell’Accademia

The Galleria dell’Accademia was established by Napoleon Bonaparte and is home to numerous artistic works from the 14th-18th centuries, including masterpieces from Bellini and Tintoretto. Its most famous piece, however, is Leonardo da Vinci’s small ink drawing titled Vitruvian Man (however, it’s rarely on display due to the fragile and light-sensitive nature of the work). Tickets are 12 EUR.

12. Explore the Jewish Ghetto

The Jewish Ghetto is a neighborhood located in the north-western part of Venice. It’s considered to be the world’s first ghetto, established in 1516 when everyone in the city’s Jewish community was forced to relocate here. They were only allowed out during the day and then were locked up and heavily guarded in the evening. Despite its troubling history, the Jewish Ghetto is now full of restaurants, shops, museums, and synagogues. It’s a lively place to explore but is often overlooked by tourists.

13. Take a food tour

To learn more about the history and culture behind Venice’s cuisine, take a food tour. It’s the best way to eat your way around the city sampling the best eats Venice has to offer while learning what makes the cuisine unique. Devour Tours runs in-depth food tours led by expert local guides that will introduce you to the food culture and its history. If you’re a foodie like me who wants to learn more about the history and culture behind each dish, these tours are for you! Tours start at 89 EUR.

  For more information on other cities in Italy, check out these guides:

• Cinque Terre Travel Guide
• Florence Travel Guide
• Milan Travel Guide
• Naples Travel Guide
• Pisa Travel Guide
• Rome Travel Guide
• Sorrento Travel Guide

Venice Travel Costs

Hostel prices – A dorm bed in a hostel usually costs 27-45 EUR per night for a 4-6-bed dorm in peak season and 22-30 EUR per night off-peak. Private rooms cost between 75-150 EUR per night in peak season and 60-85 EUR in the off-season. Free Wi-Fi is standard and several hostels have kitchens or a bar/cafe on the premises. None of the hostels in Venice currently offer free breakfast.

For those traveling with a tent, camping outside the city costs 15-30 EUR per night for a basic pitch without electricity. There are also small lodges and cabins for 30-50 EUR.

Budget hotel prices – A room in a two-star budget hotel in Venice costs 75-125 EUR per night in peak season and 50-65 in the off-season. Free Wi-Fi is included and some also include free breakfast.

On the main island, Airbnb has private rooms starting from 60-80 EUR per night. Entire apartments go for closer to 125-150 EUR per night. Expect to pay double that price if you don’t book early.

Average cost of food – Italian cuisine is beloved around the world, though every region in Italy offers its own distinct flavor. Tomatoes, pasta, olives, and olive oil form the backbone of most meals, with meat and fish and various cheeses rounding out the menu.

In Venice, seafood is an important staple, with popular traditional dishes being bigoli in salsa (pasta in anchovy sauce), risotto al nero di seppia (risotto with cuttlefish ink), and fried sardines.

Overall, eating in Venice is really expensive. It’s hard to get a cheap meal in the city. If you do want to eat out, it’s better to go out for lunch rather than dinner since lunch menus are often around 15-20 EUR.

If you want to splash out, a mid-range meal with drinks and an appetizer costs 35-50 EUR. A set, 4-course meal is 65-70+ EUR.

Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 8.50 EUR for a combo meal. Sandwiches are usually just 3-7 EUR, while pizza is 5-8 EUR for a small and 12-15 EUR for a large.

Beer is 4-5 EUR, a glass of wine is 3-4 EUR, and cocktails start at 7-9 EUR. A latte/cappuccino is closer to 2 EUR while bottled water is 1 EUR.

If you plan on cooking your own food, a week’s worth of groceries costs around 50-60 EUR. This gets you basic staples like rice, pasta, produce, and some meat or seafood.

Backpacking Venice Suggested Budgets

On a backpacking budget of 60 EUR per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, cook all of your meals, limit your drinking, take public transportation to get around, and do mostly free activities like taking free tours and wandering the markets. If you plan on drinking, add 5-10 EUR to your daily budget.

On a mid-range budget of 145 EUR per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb or private hostel room, eat out for most meals, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional water taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like day-tripping to the nearby islands and touring the museums and galleries.

On a “luxury” budget of 265 EUR or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink as much as you want, take more taxis, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get an idea of how much you need per day. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day, who knows!). We just want to give you a general idea of how to budget your money. Prices are in EUR.

Venice Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

It doesn’t matter what time of year you visit, Venice is going to be expensive. That said, here some ways to you can lower your expenses when you visit Venice:

• Don’t eat at Piazza San Marco – This is the area with the most tourists, making it much more expensive. Avoid eating here at all costs, no matter how tempting the cafe patios might be.
• Cook your food – Food is one of the biggest costs in the city so if you’re on a budget it’s a good idea to cook your own meals. It’s not fancy but you’ll save a ton!
• Walk around and get lost – Venice is so beautiful that it’s a thrill just strolling through the city seeing the old building, churches, artists, and, best of all, get a bit of people-watching in.
• Use discount vaporetto tickets – Get a day pass (or multi-day pass) for the water bus if you plan on traveling around the city a lot. It can save you money after just a few trips.
• Get a combined museum pass – There are a couple of main options for combined museum passes: St. Mark’s Square Museum Pass (which costs 26 EUR for admission to all the attractions in St. Marks Square) or the Venice Museum Pass (which costs 36 EUR for admission to the St. Marks’ Square museums as well as 9 other museums, including the Murano Glass Museum).
• Get the Venezia Unica Pass – If you are going to do lots of sightseeing, this pass gives you discounts to the top museums, tours, and attractions. It is priced to save you money when compared to buying separate tickets. You go online and pick out what you want to see ahead of time. The price varies depending on what you want to see but you’ll save a lot.
• Buy your own booze – You can buy a great bottle of wine for under 10 EUR at the store. Getting your own bottle is a much more economical way to drink. Sit in one of the squares, have a glass of wine, and watch the world go by.
• Stay with a local – Accommodation is very expensive in Venice. Try using Couchsurfing to stay with locals for free and make a new friend to show you around this amazing city.
• Go on a free walking tour – This is the best way to learn about the city on a budget. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Venice

Finding an affordable place to stay in Venice is challenging, but not impossible. My recommended places to stay in Venice are:

• Generator Venice
• Anda Venice (10% off, a free welcome drink, and free city map if you’re a member of HostelPass )
• Ostello S. Fosca – CPU Venice Hostels
• Camping Serenissima

How to Get Around Venice

Venice is a pedestrian city. Unless you’re taking water taxis or floating buses, you’ll be walking everywhere.

Vaporetto – A vaporetto is a floating “bus” that can get you just about everywhere you need to go. They’re not cheap, with one-way tickets costing 7.50 EUR. Tickets are valid for 75 minutes. You can get a 24-hour pass for 20 EUR, a 48-hour pass for 30 EUR, a 72-hour pass for 40 EUR, or a 7-day pass for 60 EUR.

If you’re traveling to Murano, Torcello, or Lido, you’ll be on the same vaporetto system but on a larger boat known as motonave . The prices are the same.

When to Go to Venice

Venice is at its peak busyness in the summer. Prices skyrocket and the crowds are intense. Temperatures hover around 18-28°C (66-83°F) from June through August. If possible, I’d avoid visiting during this time as the city is bursting with cruisers and the crowds are massive.

Spring is a beautiful time to visit since temperatures are more manageable, usually between 17-22°C (63-72°F), and the city is not overly crowded.

Tourism also eases off in the fall and winter, and temperatures are cooler, ranging from 4-12°C (44-55°F). However, this is also known as the acqua alta (“high water”) period, where flooding in the streets can occur.

In February, Carnevale takes over the city. It’s a great time, but expect chaos and inflated prices.

Overall, you’re going to face crowds whenever you go, but if you can avoid peak summer you’ll find the city pleasant to visit.

How to Stay Safe in Venice

Venice is a very safe place to backpack and travel. As with most of Italy’s cities, Venice’s biggest safety risk is petty theft and pickpocketing. This is especially true in crowded tourist areas and on public transportation, so keep a close eye on your belongings and never flash your valuables when out and about.

Scams here are rare, but if you’re worried about getting ripped off, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.)

If you come during autumn or the winter, you may be at risk for acqua alta (“high water”). Flooding is a common occurrence due to rising ocean levels. Choose accommodations closer to the upper part of town, near Piazzale Roma or the rail station.

If you experience an emergency, dial 113 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Venice Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• Walks of Italy – This walking tour company provides inside access to attractions and places you can’t get elsewhere. Their guides rock and they have some of the best and most insightful tours in all of Italy.
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

Venice Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Italy and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hotels in Florence

Where to Stay in Florence: The Best Neighborhoods For Your Visit

Where to Stay in Milan: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The 6 Best Hotels in Milan

The Best Walking Tours in Florence

The 8 Best Hotels in Rome

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Visiting Venice on a budget

Dec 9, 2015 • 6 min read

Young woman enjoying summer cocktail on the background of famous Rialto bridge in Venice. Concept of happy vacation and leisure time in Italy. Standing back with italian alcohol drink spritz Aperol 1391067772

Despite its enduring reputation as a playground for the world’s elite, some of Venice’s finest moments are surprisingly affordable. The beautiful Grand Canal can be cruised on a budget-friendly water bus, a glass of prosecco in a backstreet bar costs as little as €1.50 a glass, and many quintessential Venetian experiences are completely and blissfully free.

Bargain basilicas

Some of the city’s most celebrated sights don't cost a thing. Admission to the shimmering interior of the  Basilica di San Marco is free of charge. Built in AD 828 this architectural wonder is clad in precious marbles from Syria, Egypt and Palestine and over 8500-square metres of gold mosaic. Free guided tours run by the diocese between April and October explain the theological messages in the mosaics, while a bargain €2 gives you access to the Pala d’Oro , where you’ll find the bejewelled casket of St Mark.

Likewise, across the Grand Canal, the architectural tour de force that is Longhena’s  Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute  is also free to visit. The unusual domed octagon structure bears similarities to Graeco-Roman goddess temples and is said to have mystical curative properties. The sacristy (admission €3) is a wonder within a wonder, containing 12 Titian masterpieces.

Many Venetian churches, like La Salute, contain priceless artworks and are well worth visiting, especially if you pick up a Chorus Pass (adult/reduced €12/€8; valid 1 year;  chorusvenezia.org ), which gives you access to 16 churches, including I Frari  and San Sebastiano . Without the pass you’ll pay around €2.50 to €3 each for individual admissions.

Priceless sightseeing

The real beauty of Venice is the city itself: an architectural masterpiece of floating palaces in Istrian stone. Grab a map and get lost in its winding  calli  (lanes). Lanes spinning out from Piazza San Marco , such as Calle Larga XXII Marzo and the Frezzaria are lined with artisan jewellers, antique dealers, glass merchants and fashion showrooms.

Admission-free commercial galleries such as Galleria Traghetto and Galleria La Salizada  showcase contemporary Italian art and photography. In San Polo, the frescoed arcades of Ruga degli Orefici shelter glass artisan  Attombri , while round the corner fishmongers and farmers still hawk their wares in a timeless spectacle at the 700-year-old Rialto Market .

Away from glittering window displays, long walks down fondamente (canalside paths) such as the Zattere , the Riva degli Schiavoni and Cannaregio’s quiet Fondamenta de la Sensa and Fondamenta dei Ormesini offer scene-stealing moments with views over the wave-tossed lagoon or glassy canals.

Best of all, the 3.5-kilometre route of the No. 1 or 2 vaporetto (waterbus) down the Grand Canal offers a fantastic budget tour of the city for just €7. Passing some 50 palazzi , six churches and backdrops featured in four Bond films, it spans a thousand years of history, from the fancy Venetian Gothic Ca’ d’Oro  to the neoclassical  Palazzo Grassi .

And if your visit to the city won't be complete without boarding a gondola, you can book a non-exclusive 30-minute ride with Tu.Ri.Ve ( turive.it ) for €31 per person, instead of the usual eye-watering €80.

Inexpensive exhibitions

Maintaining one of the highest concentrations of art and architecture on the planet doesn’t come cheap, and visiting Venetian museums can be a costly exercise, with each museum entry averaging between €10 and €20. One exception is the fairy-tale  Palazzo Franchetti , which hosts free exhibitions. State-run museums such as the  Gallerie dell’Accademia ,  Palazzo Grimani  and  Ca’ d’Oro  are gratis on the first Sunday of every month, so it may pay to schedule your visit to coincide with that.

If you’re planning to visit three or more museums, including the Doge’s Palace , the Civic Museum Pass (adult/reduced €24/€18;  visitmuve.it ), which offers entry to nine civic museums, should save you money.

In addition, if you’re visiting the city between May and November, the annual art and architecture Biennale  offers a wealth of opportunities for art-loving travellers on a budget. While entry to the main pavilions is pricey, mushrooming fringe events (90 at the last count) don’t charge admission and offer access to hidden corners of the city usually off-limits to the public.

Tucking into cicheti

Even in unpretentious  osterie (taverns), meals cost slightly more in Venice than they would elsewhere in Italy. However,  cicheti (Venetian tapas), served at lunchtime and from 6pm to 8pm, are some of the best culinary bargains in the country. Ranging from simple spicy meatballs and salt cod crostini to Bassano asparagus and plump lagoon shrimp wrapped in pancetta, they can easily do duty as dinner.

Budget between €1 and €6 per serving at the following top spots:

All’Arco  – Market-fresh morsels with zingy prosecco close to the Rialto

Osteria alla Vedova  – The best meatballs in town at a veteran osteria

Dai Zemei – Creative concoctions from the food- and wine-obsessed twin ( zemei ) patrons

Osteria al Squero  – Classic cicheti with a view of a gondola workshop

Vino Vero  – Contemporary cicheti served with biodynamic wines

Happy-hour drinking

Happy hour in Venice begins around 6pm at backstreet bacari (hole-in-the-wall bars). If you’re prompt, you might beat the crowds to the bar for un'ombra (a ‘shade,’ meaning a small glass of wine), which can go for as little as €0.60 at cupboard-sized Bacareto Da Lele and local social club Cantine Aziende Agricole .

Campo Santa Margherita and Campo Cesare Battista also attract happy-hour throngs of students, tourists and locals alike – but for a drink in local company, duck behind the Rialto Market to Al Mercà  or  Cantina Do Spade , drink the good stuff at Bacaro Da Fiore  in San Marco and Cantinone Già Schiavi  in Dorsoduro, or seek out Al Timon  in Cannaregio and Bacaro Risorto  in Castello.

Budget accommodation

With rooms at the famous Gritti Palace costing a cool €500, finding your dream Venetian digs may seem a daunting prospect. The good news is, in the last decade, the number of Venetian properties available for rent has quintupled, keeping prices competitive. It's easy to find a bargain Airbnb pad ( airbnb.com ) or snap up rooms at authentic B&Bs such as Casa Baseggio , Allo Squero  and B&B San Marco , for €40-100.

For travellers on a shoestring, a slew of new hostels and renovated religious quarters means bunking down on a tight budget can now come with waterfront views and a central location. Design-conscious Generator Hostels, has revamped the Gen Venice on Giudecca island, which rocks a sharp, contemporary interior and bunk beds with views of the Zattere. Nearby the Redentore’s monastic cells cloistered around a cypress-lined garden have recently been renovated into comfortable ensuite rooms at Foresteria Redentore . Student digs at Ostello Jan Palach  and We Crociferi  are open to the public once school is out.

Cheap travel

If you’re going to be using the vaporetto (water bus) more than three times a day, instead of spending €7.50 for every one-way ticket it’s well worth investing in an ACTV Tourist Ticket (1 day, €20; 3 days €40), which you can purchase at any of the HelloVenezia ticket booths. People aged 6 to 29 can get a Rolling Venice card and a three-day travel card for €29.

The absolute cheapest way to transfer from Venice Marco Polo Airport to the city is to catch a bus to Piazzale Roma, which costs €8. However, unless you're staying very close to Piazzale Roma, the Alilaguna boat shuttle ( alilaguna.it ) is usually a better choice, as it serves all the major vaporetto stops in Venice, including San Marco, Rialto, Fondamente Nove and Zattere, as well as the islands of Murano, Certosa, Lido and Giudecca. The ticket costs €14 one-way if bought online (cheaper than the bus plus vaporetto ) and there’s no need to change or buy another ticket at busy Piazzale Roma. Board at the airport dock, which is about a 10-minute (signposted) walk from the airport building.

If you’re flying in to Treviso Airport with Ryanair, the cheapest way to get to Venice is to take the ATVO bus (one-way €12) to Piazzale Roma. From there you can jump on a vaporetto to your final destination.

Last updated in September 2017

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Venice Revealed

Venice on a Budget: A Complete Guide for Thrifty Travelers

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Imagine the allure of Venice, Italy – the city of canals, where gondolas glide through narrow waterways, and the air is filled with the melody of Italian serenades. Now, picture experiencing all this without breaking the bank.

Yes, you read it right.

Visiting Venice on a budget is not only possible but can also be an incredibly rewarding experience. Since I live near Venice, I have been there dozens of times and know all the money-saving tips there are.

With careful planning and my insider tips, an authentic Venetian experience can be yours without the hefty price tag usually associated with a trip to Venice.

So, are you ready to embark on an unforgettable journey to Venice that won’t drain your savings? Let’s dive into this handy guide and start planning your dream trip to Venice on a budget.

Read my full guide on taking a tour of Prosecco from Venice!

How much money do you need to visit Venice?

The average daily costs are virtually impossible to pin down as there are a lot of variables. However, I will give you a baseline to go off of by calculating the minimum costs if you are an extremely frugal traveler . Below are some of the expected costs if you stay in a hostel, rarely pay to enter any sites, and eat mainly picnics or cook yourself.

• Arrival transportation from airport : €18 (Round trip bus ticket)
• Accommodation: €56
• Water: €1 (Buy one bottle and continue to fill it up at fountains)
• Local Transportation: €9.5 (Vaporetto single ticket)
• Attractions: €14
• Alcohol: €9

Getting Around

Navigating Venice is an experience in itself, with its labyrinth of canals and narrow streets. There are several ways to get around the city, each offering a unique perspective of Venice.

Gondola Rides

Gondola rides are one of the most iconic experiences in Venice. These traditional, flat-bottomed boats offer a unique and romantic way to explore the city’s canals . While a private gondola ride can be quite expensive, you can save money by sharing a gondola with other tourists. Alternatively, for a quick and budget-friendly cross-canal trip, you can take a traghetto.

These are gondolas that ferry passengers across the Grand Canal for just 2 euros. While not as romantic as a private gondola ride , they offer a practical and affordable way to cross the canal.

Vaporetto (Water Bus)

The Vaporetto is Venice’s primary form of public transportation. These water buses operate regular routes along the Grand Canal and to the city’s islands. They offer a cost-effective way to get around, especially if you’re planning to buy a one day or multi day pass so you aren’t buying a single ticket everytime you want to use the bus.

A water taxi is the most expensive way to get around by far. However, since the price is fixed for the whole taxi, you can split the costs with other travelers. If you are traveling in a group and need to get to the city center, then you may end up spending less money than if you each bought an Alilaguna ticket to get to the San Marco districts, for instance. 

If you’re not shy, you could approach other arriving tourists at Marco Polo Airport and offer to share a taxi with them. 

Venice is a remarkably walkable city. Many of its attractions are within walking distance of each other, and strolling through its narrow streets and over its small bridges is a pleasure in itself. Walking not only allows you to save money on transportation but also gives you the chance to discover hidden gems and enjoy the city at your own pace.

Remember, getting around Venice doesn’t have to be expensive. With a bit of planning ahead and some insider tips, you can explore the city without blowing your Venice budget.

Read my packing guide for what to wear in Venice!

Attractions and Exploring Venice on a Budget

Venice is a city teeming with historical famous sites, architectural wonders, and vibrant markets. Among the must-visit famous sights are the Rialto Market, Doge’s Palace , and Saint Mark’s Basilica. However, exploring these sites can be costly if not planned well. Here’s how you can enjoy these attractions while sticking to your budget.

Free Attractions

Basilica di san marco .

The iconic Basilica of St Mark in the heart of the Piazza San Marco, once free to visit, now charges an admission fee of 3 € as of April 2023. However, those attending prayers , mass, and services can still enter free of charge through the side door (Porta dei Fiori).

Rialto Bridge  

As one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks, a visit to the Rialto Bridge and the adjacent Rialto Market is a must-do, and it’s completely free.

Accademia Bridge  

This is a charming wooden structure, offers one of the most picturesque views over the Canale Grande in Venice, connecting the San Marco district with the Accademia galleries in Dorsoduro .

Fondaco dei Tedeschi Rooftop  

For the best views of the Grand Canal and a free alternative to the Bell Tower in St Mark’s Square, book a visit to the rooftop at Fondaco dei Tedeschi. Although you need to book in advance and arrive on time, the breathtaking views from the top of the Rialto Bridge during a 15-minute visit are well worth it. Walk-ins are usually not accommodated due to high demand, so be sure to book your spot using this link.

Bridge of Sighs  

The best view of the Bridge of Sighs is from the Ponte della Paglia, and it’s completely free. To cross the Bridge of Sighs, you’ll need to pay for a full visit to the Doge Palace and the dungeons.

Basilica Santa Maria della Salute  

Situated near the old customs buildings in the Dorsoduro neighborhood, this impressive church is free to visit, though admission to the sacristy costs 4 €.

Check out my list of the most beautiful churches in Venice!

Libreria Acqua Alta 

Nestled in the Castello neighborhood, this unique bookstore is one of the most Instragrammable spots in all of Venice and is a must-visit for those seeking something a little different.

On the first Sunday of each month, many of the civic museums in Venice offer free entry. Here is a list of museums in Venice, Italy that have free entry on the first Sunday of the month:

• Giorgio Franchetti Gallery at the Ca’ d’Oro: This museum is located in the Ca’ d’Oro, one of the most famous palaces in Venice. It houses the art collection of Baron Giorgio Franchetti, including works from various periods and regions.
• Accademia Galleries: This museum is one of the most important in Italy for Venetian painting, offering a comprehensive overview of the great pictorial tradition of Venice from the 14th to the 18th centuries, with works by artists like Carpaccio, Giorgione, Veronese, Tintoretto, Titian, Tiepolo, Canaletto, Guardi, Bellotto, and Longhi.
• Archaeological Museum of Venice: Located in St. Mark’s Square, this museum holds a large collection of antiquities, including Greek and Roman sculptures, ceramics, coins, and gems.
• Oriental Art Museum at Ca’ Pesaro: This museum showcases an impressive collection of works of Oriental art, mainly from Japan and China, with a total of about 30,000 pieces.
• Grimani Palace Museum in Santa Maria Formosa: This museum is located in the historical Grimani Palace, which is notable for its unique rooms with 1500 frescoes.
• Monumental Rooms at the Marciana National Library: These rooms give visitors the opportunity to appreciate the beauty of the ancient Library of St. Mark’s Square, which is rich in valuable manuscripts and books.

Alternatively, you could buy a Musem Pass if you plan to visit multiple museums and that will save you money if you don’t visit Venice on a Sunday.

Read the full article on Venice Passes to save you time and money!

The Jewish Museum in the Jewish ghetto sheds light on the history of the Jews in Venice , Italy. In fact, the Jewish Ghetto in Venice is the first one in history dating back hundreds of years. 

The entrance fee to the museum is 14 euros which may be a lot for those on a tight budget, however, you also get access to the antique communal oven and entrance to the synagogues. 

Visiting churches is a Venice budget friendly way to see some amazing architecture and artistic masterpieces. In fact, seeing the art in the churches of Venice is better than any museum since you are seeing the pieces as they were intended when they were commissioned and created. You could even attend a mass in English .

Many churches are free to enter which is great if you are on a tight budget, but, some churches have a modest entrance fee to get in. If you are planning to visit many of them, again I recommend a pass. It’s called the Chorus Pass and you can read my full article about it here so you can understand if it is worth it for you or not. 

Free walking tours

One of the best ways to explore Venice and learn about its rich history is by joining a free walking tour. This is a guided tour led by a knowledgeable local guide who can provide insights into the city’s culture, architecture, and traditions. They cover various areas of the city, including the enchanting Dorsoduro district, the vibrant northern part of Venice, and the majestic Castello district.

Free walking tours are an excellent option for budget-conscious travelers as they operate on a tip-based system. This means that while there’s no upfront cost, it’s customary to give your guide a tip at the end of the tour as a show of appreciation for their service. So, while not completely free, these tours can be a more affordable option compared to standard guided tours.

Remember, while the tours are free, it’s important to book in advance as they can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist season. So, if you’re planning a trip to Venice on a budget, consider adding a free walking tour to your itinerary. It’s a cost-effective way to see the city and learn about its history from a local perspective.

Food and Drink in Venice

Venice is not just a feast for the eyes, but also for the palate. The city’s culinary scene is as rich and diverse as its history, with a variety of dishes that reflect its unique geography and cultural influences. It can be expensive to eat here if you aren’t careful and don’t plan things well. Check out some tips on how to eat cheaply.

Cicchetti are small snacks or side dishes that are a staple of Venetian cuisine. They are similar to Spanish tapas and can range from bite-sized sandwiches, known as ‘panini’, to seafood delicacies and various types of cheese and olives. Cicchetti are typically enjoyed with a small glass of local wine, called an ‘ombra’, and are served in traditional Venetian bars known as ‘bacari’. These delightful treats offer a taste of authentic Venice and are a must-try for any food lover visiting the city.

They are a good way to sample a lot of different foods and still stay on budget. A typical cicchetto costs between 1.2 euros and 2.5 euros each. You can easily fill up on 4 of these and spend less than 10 euro for your meal, including wine.

One of the must-try wines in Venice is the Prosecco , a popular sparkling Italian wine often enjoyed in the city. But if you’re visiting Venice on a budget, you might want to consider trying an “ombra”, a small glass of local wine that is more affordable.

A Spritz is the national drink in Northern Italy and likely originated in Venice. They can be found for around 2.5 euros in some of the off the beaten path bars such as in Cannaregio . However, if you are particularly thrifty, you can buy a premixed one at any supermarket and take it to your favorite panoramic spot in the city for less than 1 euro. 

Check out my guide on the best bars in Venice!

For a truly Venetian experience, consider having a picnic. While you can’t have picnics in public squares or on the steps of bridges, there are many parks in the city where you can enjoy a meal amidst greenery. Some of these include the Giardini of the Biennale, Parco Savorgnan, and Giardini Papadopoli. 

There are small grocery stores and supermarkets scattered all over Venice city where you can buy local cheeses, charcuterie, and a cheap bottle of local wine to wash it all down. 

Avoid buying bottled water and instead bring a bottle of your own to fill up at the many fountains all over the city. The water is clean and nicely chilled. 

Pasta to go

There are also many pasta to go joints all over the city. The pasta is usually freshly made and served with a homemade sauce. Often you can get a pasta within minutes and for less than 9 euros which makes for an economical and hearty lunch on the go. 

Rialto Market

One of the best ways to truly immerse yourself in the local culture and save money while visiting Venice is to cook your own meals. The Rialto Market , a bustling hub of activity in the heart of the city, is the perfect place to source fresh, local ingredients. 

Here, you’ll find a wide array of fresh seafood, from clams to shrimp, as well as a variety of fruits and vegetables. Shopping at the Rialto Market not only allows you to experience the city like a local, but it also gives you the opportunity to prepare a delicious, home-cooked meal back at your suite or hostel with a kitchen. It’s a unique and budget-friendly way to enjoy the culinary delights of Venice.

Where to stay in Venice on a budget

When it comes to accommodation in Venice, there’s something for every budget and preference. From luxurious hotels with canal views to budget-friendly hostels, the city offers a wide range of options. However, one key tip to remember is to book your hotel accommodation early, especially during peak tourist seasons . This not only ensures you secure a place to stay but also gives you a wider range of options to choose from.

If you’re visiting Venice on a budget, consider staying in a hostel . Hostels in Venice offer affordable accommodation options without compromising on comfort. These hostels are located in the heart of the city, providing easy access to major attractions. What’s more, they often come with communal kitchens, allowing you to prepare your own meals and save on dining out.

For instance, you could visit the Rialto Market, a popular spot in Venice, where you can buy fresh fish and vegetables. With these ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal back at your hostel, immersing yourself in the local culture while saving money.

Although it is a challenge in Venice to find cheap accommodations, there are some hotels that do fit well into your budget and still offer a comfortable experience. In fact, my pick for the best cheap accommodation in Venice even has a view of a canal and is close to the famous sights. It’s called Hotel dalla Mora and you can find it here . 

Alternatively, you can stay in Mestre on the mainland and get a much cheaper hotel than what you can find in Venice city center. Taking the tram into the historic center is an experience and costs only 3 euros for a round trip ticket.

Practical Tips to Maintain Your Travel Budget

Choosing the right time to visit.

Venice is a city that can be enjoyed all year round, but choosing the right time to visit can significantly enhance your experience. The shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) are ideal times to visit. During these periods, the weather is generally pleasant, and the city is less crowded. Try to avoid the summer season when prices skyrocket and there are lots of crowds.

Winter can also be a magical time to visit Venice, with fewer tourists and a unique atmosphere. Just keep in mind that December in Venice can get expensive if you are there around Christmas and New Year’s Eve. However, coming in January allows you to still take in many of the Christmas events since the season extends all the way to the Epiphany but without the crowds.

Be careful when visiting Venice in February as during Carnevale it can be quite crowded and expensive.

Check out my full article on the best time to visit Venice so you can get an idea of when things will work for you. 

Alternatively, you can also read to the worst times to visit Venice to see what you should avoid. 

Making the Most of Passes

Venice offers various passes that can help you save money on transportation and sightseeing. The Venice Card offers unlimited use of public transportation and access to various museums and churches. Similarly, the Museum Pass allows access to a number of civic museums in Venice, including the Doge’s Palace and Museo Correr. Buying these passes can not only save you money but also provide skip-the-line access to popular sights.

Avoiding Tourist Traps

Venice is a popular tourist destination, and as such, it has its share of tourist traps . Here are a few tips to avoid them:

Be wary of restaurants with multilingual menus and pictures of the food. These are often geared towards tourists and may charge higher prices. Instead, seek out places where locals eat.

Avoid buying souvenirs from street vendors. These items are often overpriced and not of the best quality. Instead, look for local shops or markets for authentic and reasonably priced souvenirs .

Be cautious of being approached to do a “free” tour. While some are legitimate, others may expect a hefty tip at the end or take you to places where you feel pressured to make a purchase. Make sure to book in advance to be sure that you are getting an actual tour. 

Wrapping It Up

While it may seem like a luxury destination, visiting Venice on a budget is entirely possible with a bit of planning and savvy decision-making. From choosing budget-friendly accommodations and making the most of free walking tours to savoring local delicacies at the Rialto Market, there are numerous ways to experience the magic of Venice without breaking the bank. 

So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey to the City of Canals, all within your budget.

Check out some of the articles below to help you plan your ideal trip to Venice. 

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Venice on a budget: complete 2024 travel guide.

It’s been three years since I’ve been to Venice and the experience still shines brightly in my heart.

Before I went to Venice I had dreams of romantic walks, quaint alleyways filled with coffee shops and authentic Italian restaurants and lots of gelatos.

I got everything and more. In a bid to reminisce and encourage me to organize my return soon. I’ve put together a guide on how to visit Venice on a budget with the top things to do in Venice , see and eat in the wonderful city on water.

No cars, no roads, just boats, and canals, which adds to the tranquility and beauty that is the city of Venice.

Renowned for its romance and charm, it's a city full of charisma and style that has something to suit everyone.

Travellerspoint

How long do I need for a Venice City Break?

Honestly, a 3-night trip is good, but you could also do Venice in 2 days if time is tight. I stayed one week, thought this also included a trip to Verona (a must-see destination for romantic lovers) on the train.

If you want to really immerse yourself in the Venice charm then just spend a few extra days to wander the back streets and discover more museums you didn’t know existed!

Your budget will determine how long you stay in Venice. The "in-city" accommodation is not good for Venice on a budget, but if you stay just outside, you can afford to stay longer.

Where to stay in Venice?

Thanks to websites like Booking.com and Airbnb, it’s never been easier to find cheaper accommodation in Venice. Of course, the closer you are to Venice and if you stay within the city, then you will be paying more.

I stayed a ten-minute bus ride outside of Venice is a charming Airbnb.

It’s was well-priced, luxurious (nice than any hotel I could find within my budget) and it included breakfast (and the best coffee ever!).

But, it all depends on what you are looking for, you can go for a 1-star budget hotel in the centre of Venice, or a 5-star luxury hotel suited in St Marks Square.

If you are going to Venice for a romantic break or a celebration- splash out. I imagine staying within actual Venice will add to its charm and beauty.

Top Things To Do In Venice?

There really is SO much to do, and I don’t think you should leave anything out, however, if you are on a time constraint, then this is a list of things that you should make a priority.

Also, you'd be surprised that there is lots to do is Venice that won't stretch your budget too far.

1. Rialto Bridge

This is arguably the most famous bridge in Venice and it will be surrounded by hundreds of tourists taking pictures and shopping at this beautiful spot.

There is no shortage of souvenir shops, delicious (slightly overpriced) Italian restaurants, and food markets to find delicious snacks.

This is the typical spot to catch a photo, but it’s so worth it. Take my advice and head in the evening when it’s a little quieter. You’ll get to experience the true sense of romance on this bridge.

2. Gondola Ride

The million dollar question every tourist asks...are they worth the money? And the answer depends on what you want from your time in Venice. Romantic trip for two with a little extra to spend?

Then I would highly recommend a trip, it's a wonderful way to explore Venice, and if you want to save some cash, buddy up with other couples to get a cheaper rate.

If you don't want to splash out on the Gondola, never fear, water taxis will still give you a Venice waterway experience, and the great thing about Venice is everything is walking distance, and the narrow streets and hundreds of them, mean you discover something new on every corner which makes it a unique adventure!

Check out below the average Gondola Prices!

The city of Venice sets official rates for gondola rides, which started at €80 for 40 minutes.Additional 20-minute increments are €40. After 7 p.m., the base rate climbs to €100, with €50 for an additional 20 minutes. Up to six people can share a gondola.

Please note, these prices could have changed.

3. Piazza San Marco/St Mark's Basilica

San Marco is known for luxury, and luxury is what you receive. This one isn't suitable if you are visiting Venice on a budget.

It may cost you up to 22 Euros for two cappuccinos, but with the impeccable service and live music, not to mention a wonderful atmosphere you can be sure it's worth it that one time!

If however, splashing out on coffee isn't your thing, just walk around, take pictures and experience the buzz, then when you are done, visit the Basilica.

You don't have to be religious to experience how amazing this building is, the architecture is breath-taking and it's well worth a visit. There is a small entrance fee of 4 euro if you want to take a look inside (it is worth it!)

Get your St Marks Basilica Tickets here!

4. Peggy Guggenheim Museum

Located on the Grand Canal, the Museum holds a collection of Europe's most famous and respected modern art.

It includes works of Cubism, Futurism, Metaphysical Painting, Surrealism, among many more and I guarantee you will not be disappointed. It is a unique experience, and the outside porch is a great photography spot .

There is an entrance fee and last time I checked it was €15 for adults, but if you have a student card, it’s  €9. You can use a student card until you are 26 too!

5. Visit Burano and Murano

Abstract, unique, and wonderfully bright, these two islands are famous for their glass making and it's easy to see why when you visit the many shops and view the many statues and artifacts that are made out of this wonderful unique glass.

You can easily visit these islands via frequent water taxi from Venice; it's approximately 13 euro return, and perfect for a day trip!

There are plenty of places to eat on the island, but bring loose change for the toilets- there is a charge to use them (but they are super clean).

6. Museums worth visiting

Venice is filled with museums worth a view. To narrow your search, these are the ones I suggest.

• ‍Jewish Museum of Venice
• ‍Museo Storico Navale
• ‍Ca' Pesaro
• ‍Punta della Dogana
• Scuola Grande di San Rocco

7. The Bell Tower (San Marco Campanile)

This is one of the most recognised symbols of Venice and it's located in St Marks Square.

It offers absolutely amazing views of Venice and is the perfect spot to grab some shots of the city from above. It costs 8 euro and it's totally worth it. It's a lovely spot to spend a romantic moment with a loved one.

8. Eating out in Venice

People always assume eating out anywhere in Italy is expensive, but I managed to eat out in Rome on a budget and the same thing can be said for Venice.

• ‍ £: Italy offers so many amazing types of pizza to try. It is, of course, where it originated! From 2 euro for a massive slice and a can of drink for 1 euro, it's the perfect quick lunch or snack when sightseeing! I would recommend Antico Forno if you're passing by Rialto Bridge. (Fresh, Cheap and the locals love it!) Not into pizza? Paninis, Sandwiches, Wraps, all for 2-5 euro! Who says Venice is expensive? ‍
• ££: Don’t get sucked in by ‘tourist’ menus. Search the streets. Venice is filled with unique hideaway restaurants that are authentic Italian and will leave you feeling satisfied! Impronta Cafe serves authentic Italian food, and in the afternoon you can get a main dish and glass of wine for 12 euros! ‍
• £££ : This one is cliche...but the Hard Rock Cafe Venice, does not fail to disappoint. Typical American food, but with some of the best service, and fantastic atmosphere and location (beside Prada, Gucci...ect, so perfect for a spot of food after hitting the designer stores) ‍
• ££££: If you really want a fine dining experience, then Venice has plenty to offer. Dining al fresco is wonderful in the summer, and the service in Venice is hard to fault. Head on over to San Marco for some amazing food. My suggestion is Quadri, the menu starts at 220 euro, but with its Michelin star rating and its charming atmosphere means it will definitely be worth the money.

Don’t bother with dessert. Venice is packed with delicious gelato shops, so take a stroll and grab some. Venice is just perfect to wander in the evening- it’s safe, tranquil and oozes romance.

If you like to enjoy alcohol, there is no shortage of bars in Venice. Remember it’s also got a university, so if you like to party, you’ll probably find somewhere.

Due to its student status, there are discounts on drinks, food, and museums everywhere so if you are under 26 with a student card, it’s worth using it. Also be aware that if you want cheaper wine, go for house wine- it’s Italy, so it’s always going to taste good!

Have you been to Venice? Add your recommendations or insider tips to the comments section below!

I hope you've enjoyed my guide to Venice on a budget and my list of the top things to do in Venice!

Happy traveling x

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The Ultimate Guide to Venice on a Budget

Sean Finelli Last Updated: November 16, 2022

Venice is an iconic destination in Italy that sees millions of visitors every year. Visiting the Floating City can get expensive quickly, from transport to museum admission costs and dining in popular areas. But you don’t need to have a big budget to enjoy the city. In this guide, we share practical pointers for getting the most out of Venice on a budget.

Pro Tip:  Planning a trip to Venice? Bookmark this post in your browser so you can come back to it when you’re traveling. See our  guide to Venice  for more resources to help you plan your trip. Also, check out our article on  how to see Venice in a day .

How To Visit Venice on a Budget

When you arrive in Venice, you’ll quickly realize that it’s very easy to spend money in this city. From visiting museums to getting around and eating out, Venice can get pretty expensive. Here, all goods have to be brought in by boat every day and the number of visitors has exploded in recent years, all contributing to local costs.

However, enjoying Venice on a tight budget is still possible—it just requires a bit of planning ahead. Here’s what we’ll cover to help you get the most out of your trip to Venice:

How To Get To Venice

• Where To Stay

Getting Around Venice

• Things To Do
• What To Avoid
• Where To Eat

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If you’re coming to Venice from other Italian cities, the cheapest solution is to travel by bus or train. The train is faster and may even be cheaper if book tickets early.

If you choose to arrive by plane, be sure to check both of the city’s airports when booking your tickets. You may find cheaper flights for the smaller and more distant Treviso airport (Canova Airport in Treviso – TSF).  

How to get from Canova Airport in Treviso (TSF) to Mestre and Venice

Mestre is the mainland area that connects to Venice by rail and road. As you will read below, we recommend staying in Mestre because it’s much more affordable than staying in the lagoon area. There are two ways you can get to Mestre and/or Venice:

Bus and Train: 

The cheapest way is to take the Urban Bus Line from the Airport to the train station of Treviso for €1.30. Then, continue by train to Mestre or Venice for a price of €3.55.

Bus Shuttle Service: 

The fastest solution is to take the non-stop bus shuttle service. It also has amenities including onboard Wi-Fi and baggage storage in the trunk of the bus. The price is €12 one-way to the train station of Mestre (mainland) or  Venice (Piazzale Roma). There is no round-trip ticket available.

Where To Stay in Venice

Finding the right hotel or apartment rental without spending too much can be tricky, especially if you want to stay in the lagoon . Try to avoid the lagoon if you want to save your budget for activities, Venice tours, or eating out.

Instead, choose comfortable and economical accommodation in Mestre , situated in the terraferma or mainland area just across the lagoon from Venice. Many accommodation options have been recently established near Mestre’s train station to offer travelers an alternative to the expensive lagoon.

In the morning, take the inexpensive train or bus from Mestre across to Venice and continue on foot — the best way to explore this city. Venice is a fairly small city and very walkable.

Try to avoid the Vaporetto public water taxi, which can be relatively expensive . You can take advantage of it for long distances only or for visiting the islands in the lagoon.

In addition, avoid the busy water taxi lines on Canal Grande too. Unless, of course, it’s really important to you to ride a boat on this famous canal without spending the € 80 for a gondola ride. We have a guide on how to use public transport in Venice if you need it.

Popular Venice Tours

Best-Selling Tour

Ultimate Venice in a Day with Murano and Burano

The ultimate tour of Venice. You’ll get skip-the-line access to the most important buildings in Venice, plus a gondola ride, and private transportation to the islands of Murano and Burano. It’s a full day of touring that will make for the best memories in Venice ever.

Authentic Experience

Venice Local Evening Food Tour in Cannaregio

People who say Venice is too touristy have not done enough research. Cannaregio is an amazing break from the crowds and our food tour is the most authentic way to experience it. Taste Cicchetti and other Venetian specialties with tons of wine! You’ll leave with a full stomach! Plenty of Food and wine included!

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  Venice Guide for more info.

Things To Do in Venice

While accommodation and restaurants can be expensive, there are a number of sights and monuments in Venice that are completely free to visit as well as some other cool activities.

Free Museums and Activities

Visit Saint Mark’s Basilica, Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute, and the many other magnificent churches free of charge. There are many admission-free art and photo galleries spread all over the city. To save money on the major museums like Palazzo Rezzonico, Ca D’oro, and Ca’ Pesaro Gallery, buy a combined ticket.

To get even closer to the heavens, climb the rooftop terrace of Fondaco dei Tedeschi, a department store near the famous Rialto Bridge, and enjoy the sweeping views of the Canal Grande and Rialto Bridge, the oldest one of all Grand Canal bridges, without having to pay or queue for the bell tower of Saint Mark’s Basilica.

Explore the inexpensive neighborhood of Cannaregio , situated in the very north of the city. Chill out and reflect on the shores of the Rio della Misericordia and La Sensa. In the many restaurants and cafes nearby, dine well for very little money compared to other areas. While you’re there, admire the oldest Jewish ghetto in the world. In fact, the English word “ghetto” is derived from it.

Free Evening Activities in Venice

In the evening, when most tourists leave the city and the pace begins to slow down, head to the sea. Relax on one of the many shores and enjoy the magic of this city in the golden hour. See how this city has literally been shaped by the sea. Then, walk the endless waterside promenades of Zattere and Riva degli Schiavoni.

When treated gently, Venice may reward you with some of the finest moments you’ve had in a long time , all for free. For more ways to spend your time, check out the hidden gems of Venice —many are free of charge.

What To Avoid in Venice

Tourists often spend too much because they get drinks and food in the Rialto and San Marco districts. Prices skyrocket in these areas and will burn a hole in your pocket.

Avoid staying in a hotel on the lagoon, if you can. Rather, choose a place on the mainland. Public transport is available until late at night, so this should not stop you.

Best Selling Tour

Doge’s Palace “Prisons & Tyranny” Tour in Venice

Hear how the Dukes of Venice ruled the “republic” using fear tactics, imprisonment, and torture. Now, the palace stands as a reminder of how the law was carried out in Venice. Skip the line with a passionate English speaking guide and go behind the scenes to see the best parts of this incredible Gothic palace. Admissions included.

Most Popular Tour

Venice Highlights Tour with Gondola Ride

People who say Venice is too touristy have not done enough research. Cannaregio is an amazing break from the crowds and our food tour is the most authentic way to experience it. Taste Cicchetti and other Venetian specialties with tons of wine! You’ll leave with a full stomach!

Where To Eat in Venice

At the southern end of the city is the neighborhood of Dorsoduro , which means “hard ridge”. It derives from its less marshy land, compared to the other areas of Venice. Today, Dorsoduro represents a great balance between touristy Venice and its authentic side.

Enjoy significantly lower prices in bars, cafes and restaurants in this area. Have the iconic Spritz drink alongside locals in one of the many bars of Campo Santa Margherita , the very heart of the Dorsoduro neighborhood.

This area is one of the best places to relax after a long walk through the city. Have tasty cicchetti (small sandwiches), which you can buy in the many Bacaro shops spread all around the area. For less than €1 , enjoy those tasty delicacies and refill your energy. Check out where to eat the best cicchetti at every price point.

You can find plenty of museums in this neighborhood too. To visit the famous sights in the city center, cross the Accademia Bridge and explore the picture-perfect San Marco square, Rialto Bridge, and Doge’s Palace. If you’ve been saving for a great meal on your trip, check out the best restaurants in Venice in different price ranges.

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Rome , Florence , Venice , Amalfi Coast , and Capri

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April 23, 2019

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April 29, 2019

Ciao Nora! Thanks for reading our blog. We’re glad you enjoyed reading our content!

November 16, 2019

We are planning to visit Venice Such a really incredible place. I received some ad news about Venice City. Hope all goes well.

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Venice on a budget: 6 travel hacks to save on your trip

With narrow streets, iconic canals, and one of the most fascinating histories of any major European city, it’s no wonder how many travelers want to visit Venice. The shopping, restaurant, and nightlife scenes are all world-class. In terms of history, it’s one of the most well-preserved places on the planet. While this city has an opulent culture and a reputation for luxury travel, your Venice trip doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg. 

Planning ahead can help you save money in a variety of ways. Figuring out the cheapest way to navigate the narrow streets and canals, arranging luggage storage in Venice , and finding the best cheap eats are the best ways to stick to a strict budget. Most importantly, some of the best activities and landmarks in the Venice city center are completely free or very affordable. 

Here are some travel tips for visiting Venice on a Budget: 

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Cheap places to stay in Venice 

It’s never easy trying to find the right lodging option in a very expensive city like Venice. But saving money on a hostel or cheaper hotel is the best way to keep to a tight budget when you visit Venice. Hotel prices in the Venetian Lagoon can get, let’s say, luxurious , so you’ll really need to look into youth hotels for lower prices. 

Check out our Venice neighborhood guide to find which area of the city appeals to you, and then look for hostels nearby. Here are a few of the best options:

Anda Venice Hostel

Located just a few minutes from St. Mark Square and other popular attractions, this massive hostel is one of the best places to stay for younger travelers and backpackers. It’s very convenient, with Mestre Train Station nearby, and the prices are incredibly reasonable. For a bed in a shared dorm room, Anda only costs $30 per night, with twin beds in private rooms only being $50 per person. 

This is also a female-friendly hostel that has policies in place to create an environment where every guest is comfortable. The shared kitchen is also great for travelers looking to prepare a few meals, which can be key for saving money. There’s also an onsite bar for socializing over a few inexpensive drinks. 

Combo Hostel 

This is probably the nicest hostel in the Venetian Lagoon. Branded as a “five-star hostel” (it’s difficult to sense whether there’s an irony to this label), Combo is one of the nicest inexpensive lodging options to consider for your Venice trip. Located in a repurposed convent dating back to the 12th century, Combo has a luxurious aesthetic you won’t find anywhere else. The prices are on the higher end, with private rooms with twin beds starting at $200, but features like air-conditioning and a kitchenette help justify the cost.  

Generator Hostel Venice

This hostel chain has locations in just about every major European city, and Generator’s consistent quality makes it one of the most reliable options on the market. The location in Venice has some nice decor and subtle touches that can trick guests into thinking they’re staying at a hotel. Cozy couches overlooking a fireplace, chandeliers, and paintings all give common areas a luxurious feel. The prices are incredibly reasonable. $40 for a shared dorm or $120 for two guests in a private room isn’t bad.

Cheap things to do in Venice 

Luckily, if you’re looking to visit Italy and save money at the same time, there are always amazing activities that are completely free. Like other Italian cities, Venice is chock full of historic landmarks that can be enjoyed by just walking around and looking at them. Whether it’s the famous Doge’s Palace , island hopping, or a charming town square, these activities don’t require a ticket or entrance fee. 

The Bridge of Sighs and Doge’s Palace 

Read any article or travel book about visiting Venice, and you will find writers heaping massive amounts of praise on Doge’s Palace and the Bridge of Sighs . Both of these historical landmarks are premium tourist destinations and for good reason. Doge’s Palace is a former city official’s urban manse that has been well-preserved and is a must-see attraction for history buffs, art enthusiasts, and curious travelers. The Bridge of Sighs, on the beautiful Riva degli Schiavoni, connects Doge’s Palace to historic prisons (not currently in use) and is one of Venice’s premier architectural attractions. Another bridge to tour is the Rialto, which was built in the 16th century and crosses the Grand Canal. 

Venice’s parks, gardens, and piazzas 

One of the best ways to save money on a trip is to plan an afternoon (or even a full day) where you only do free activities. Luckily for budget travelers, Venice has plenty of beautiful spaces that are completely free to explore. 

Giardini Reali , which was commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte, is a gorgeous public garden with historic features and lush landscapes. The Giardini della Biennale is another garden with dozens of pavilions and regular art exhibitions. The Parco della Rimembranza overlooks the Venetian Lagoon and is a beautiful place to walk around. It’s also a comfortable space to have a picnic.

Walking is Venice’s best activity

One of the defining features of major European cities is their walkability. Venice, with its bridges and canalways, is one of the absolute best walking cities in the world. Everywhere you turn, there’s something amazing to uncover. There are secret gardens throughout, piazzas, and canalside cafés all worth stopping by. Every square (especially Saint Mark’s) is a landmark worth enjoying. The Giudecca Canal also offers breathtaking views for pedestrians. And all of these are walkable from each other, which makes Venice so special. 

Check out a Regatta 

Being a chain of islands in a lagoon, Venice is certainly what you’d call a “maritime city.” Whether it’s the gondolas traversing the canals or the numerous luxury yachts and sailboats in the distance, boating is a massive part of Venitian culture. One of the local traditions is to watch the numerous regattas that take place throughout the year. All of these events are free to view from the waterfront, and the scene is one of the most fun you’ll find in Venice. 

Depending on the time of year, you can get lucky and visit during the Regata Storica , which happens on the first Sunday of September. It’s held on the Grand Canal and includes a parade of antique boats and then actual boat races for different types of vessels. There is also the Regata delle Antiche Repubbliche Marinare, which is held every four years in Venice. The Vogalonga, with its thousand-boat race, happens in May. Regata delle Befa happens every January and coincides with the Day of the Epiphany (an important Catholic tradition). 

Venice’s historic churches

Famous tourist attractions like basilicas, churches, and monuments can get expensive to tour, but the fact of the matter is that they are extremely important to the full experience, especially in a city like Venice. The Basilica San Marco (Saint Mark’s Basilica) is one of the most beautiful churches in Italy, and it’s entirely free. There will certainly be a line to gain entry, but it’s worth the short wait (especially if you’ll save money on admission). Other superb churches to visit are the Basilica Santa Maria della Salute and the Chiesa di San Zaccaria, which only cost a few euros for admission. 

Cheap places to eat in Venice 

Italian cuisine can range from satisfying street food favorites to some of the most luxurious dishes on the planet, so you’ll find something to match your budget in Venice. You can save money by preparing your own meals or by bargain-hunting cafés for roughly the same price. You should be able to get a dish and a glass of wine or beer for €10-€15, anything more than that, and you know you’re not getting the best price.

Here are a few insider tips for cheap eats in Venice: 

Local markets and grocery stores 

Italian cities are famous for amazing public markets, and Venice is no different. Rialto Market has been the best place in Venice for produce, meats, cheeses, and other ingredients for a few centuries. You’ll find plenty of great (and affordable) ingredients to make your own meals or, better yet, a picnic of local cuisine you can share with friends. Rialto also turns into a Christmas market during the holidays. 

Avoid restaurants near touristy destinations

Venice isn’t the only major travel destination where restaurants near landmarks and tourist attractions can be vastly overpriced. If you’re looking for affordable restaurants with fewer tourists to compete with, it’s best to stick to cafés and bars slightly off the beaten path. Rule of thumb: if there's a "must-see" attraction within view of the restaurant, it will likely be a complete rip-off.

One of the best ways to cut costs while sampling delicious local cuisine is by relying on a familiar favorite. Pizza stands and restaurants serve a slice for less than €2, so keep an eye out for a place like Antico Forno near the Rialto Bridge. It’s the best and cheapest lunch option in Venice.

Cheap Bars in Venice 

If you want to save money AND enjoy a few drinks, you need to know where to go. Venice has tons of swanky cocktail bars and upscale restaurants, but there are also a few local haunts where students and regulars hang out and drink on the cheap. Here are a few favorites: 

Al Chioschetto 

This bar is all about the view, with an outdoor patio overlooking the lagoon. The prices are fair, as well. A spritz, which is a Venice specialty, especially during the summer, will refresh and delight your taste buds and will only cost around €5. This spot gets crowded around sunset, so get there in the afternoon if you want a table.

Cantine del Vino Gia Schiavi 

Wine bars in America are rightfully associated with an expensive tab, but these piazza-side cafés are so ingrained in Italian daily life that they are much more accessible. Venice is no different, and this no-frills wine bar, with a fantastic selection and helpful staff, is one of the most affordable spots in the city. Make sure to pair some cicchetti with your wine. All of it will cost less than €8. 

One of the more affordable cocktail bars in Venice, this popular spot features an eclectic menu of classic drinks and a few house specialties. It’s popular with the students and locals, so you know Chet Bar’s prices are no-nonsense.

Bonus budget tips for Venice 

Travel off-season (shoulder season) .

Venice, like any other major European city, is a popular travel destination in the late spring and summer. Everything gets more expensive when school gets out, especially flights. The “shoulder seasons” (formerly known as “low season”) from fall to spring are the best times to visit Venice if you’re saving money.  No, you don’t have to book insane flight deals from budget airlines where you have a layover in Eastern Europe. You have to be patient and flexible to find the best deal. While there isn’t a huge price difference for lodging across different seasons, it’s always much easier to find rooms during shoulder seasons. 

Getting around on a budget 

Using public transportation is one of the best travel tips for anyone looking to save money during their Venice trip. While the Venetian Lagoon and its surroundings aren’t the biggest city on the planet, you still have to figure out how to get around. Luckily, Venice is an incredibly walkable city. You can get to most places you’ll need to go on foot. Venice Train Station is where tourists land when they’re traveling from the mainland. After that, you really won’t need to worry about having to rely on expensive taxis to get between landmarks. You may be tempted to splurge on a $100 gondola ride, at least for the novelty, but that’s more of a tourist activity than a transportation method. 

Conclusion 

Whether it’s finding free things to do , preparing your own food, or using public transportation, there are plenty of ways to save money when you visit Venice. You just have to know a few travel tips here and there. While the Venitian Lagoon has a reputation for luxury, this is an amazing city to visit no matter your budget. All you have to do is plan ahead and have an open mind. 

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10 Budget Travel Tips for Visiting Venice

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The first and perhaps best budget travel tip for visiting Venice involves selection of dates for your trip.

Be warned: if you visit Venice in summer, the experience will be far different than an off-season stopover. Plan to be patient and wait in line for major attractions. Look for higher peak-season prices, too. If this is your only season of opportunity, by all means go. But plan ahead and know that you will be sharing this beautiful place with thousands of others.

Cool and Less Crowded in Winter

Mark D. Kahler

Notice the people in this picture are wearing coats. Although mild compared to Stockholm or Berlin, Venice is not a tropical city, and winter temperatures sometimes plunge below the freezing mark. You might even see an occasional snowfall. Spring is mild but cool breezes off the water can be a bit uncomfortable at times.

If you're willing to don a jacket or sweater, there are huge travel benefits to be enjoyed during a winter visit.

Notice something else in this picture? Pigeons outnumber people. This too is an afternoon scene in St. Mark's Square. But there is room to stop and admire the stunning architecture and the artwork of centuries past. The budget hotels won't be as crowded -- you might actually find a room. There might be exhibits or attractions closed for remodeling at this time of year, so be sure your favorites are open before booking. If you're willing to travel in the off-season , you will reap more value in popular Venice.

Fall is an excellent time to visit, but be aware that from October-January you could encounter what Venetians call Acqua Alta or High Water . During this time, hotels will loan guests high boots, and a few streets or alleys could become difficult to navigate. 

Reserve Hotel Rooms to Avoid Disappointment

These young travelers were camped just outside the Santa Lucia railroad station, which is the "front door" for most people who visit Venice. Perhaps they were just waiting for the next train out of town. But a number of people arrive here with no hotel reservations and then are surprised to find that rooms in their price range are gone.

In tourist season, that could result in paying for a much more expensive room than your budget allows or camping out at the train station. Even budget travelers who love spontaneity should perform a Venice hotel search and book prior to arrival. Find a room that is located in the areas you want to visit and at your price. Also consider searching in nearby mainland Mestre , a place sometimes lacking the aesthetic qualities of Venice. Nonetheless, rooms are available there at more reasonable prices.

Passes Are a Must

Although Venice is known for its waterways, you will spend a lot of time walking on terra firma . It is one of the more pedestrian-friendly cities on the planet. But you will find yourself in need of water transportation.

The water bus here is known as a vaporetto . They are used by tourists and business people much the same way a subway works in other cities. You can even buy passes that are good for multiple rides. That's a good idea for this reason: a single-ride ticket on a vaporetto is expensive at €7 ($8.25 USD). Although good for 60 minutes, you can do much better on price. Consider a 24-hour travel card, called Biglietto ventiquattro ori in Italian, for €20 ($24 USD). There are also 48-hour cards for €30 ($35 USD), 72-hour cards for €40 ($47 USD) and a seven-day pass for €60 ($71 USD).

If you'd like to add attraction discounts to savings on vaporetto trips, consider buying a Venice Card . The Gold Pass includes the 72-hour vaporetto pass, public wi-fi, free admission to four attractions, and a discount book covering other entry fees in the city for  €59 ($69.50 USD).

Take a Self-Guided Tour

At some point in your visit to Venice, you are likely to tire of walking. Use your vaporetto passes, stake out a front or back seat, and simply ride for awhile. It's a great way to observe and admire the ornate beauty of architectural Venice. Some people do this with guidebooks in hand, while others simply settle back and enjoy the views without a lot of prepared information.

These trips also produce some nice photographic opportunities, so have your camera at the ready. There are very few places where you can take an affordable boat ride through centuries of history. So hop on board and pay only passing attention to the vaporetto's destination. In summer, you'll probably have to wait out a number of stops before an outside seat opens. It's worth the wait, it's already paid for, and you'll remember the experience for a long time.

Beware of Veiled Sales Pitches

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

Murano glass is world-renowned. This stunning product is produced on an island of the same name in the Venetian archipelago. You could find a tour of one of the factories very interesting, and you might want to buy some Murano glass or have a piece shipped home.

Be aware that some hotels will work out a "special boat ride and tour" that they say is free with the price of your room. Some of these trips turn into high-pressure sales visits. You'll be escorted to a showroom after the tour and you'll be told this is your last chance to buy Murano glass. Your hosts will feign disbelief and even offense when they learn that after all of their efforts, you don't want to buy.

Don't allow yourself to be embarrassed into buying something you can't afford or don't want. It is actually quite common for people to take the tour, thank their hosts, and politely exit the showroom without buying. Whatever you're told about this "last chance," remember that there are scores of showrooms throughout Venice and Italy offering Murano glass products at competitive prices.

Gondola Advice: Save Your Money

Perhaps you've always dreamed of a gondola ride in the Grand Canal . Some people who come here and partake of the experience say it is unforgettable. If you're determined to do it, be sure you budget for what will be a pricey experience.

How much? The cost can vary widely by the length of trip and the services a gondolier provides. The local government has established a sort of "going rate" of €80 ($94 USD) for a 40-minute ride taking up to six passengers. The rates rise to €100 ($118 USD) in the evening and can go even higher during special events.

Important: do not assume that these going rates are routinely observed. Gondoliers might serenade you and charge an additional €20, even though you did not ask for a musical interlude. During busy periods, that 40-minute standard might shrink to allow for more trips.

Confused? Add in a language barrier and there can be some distressed passengers when it comes time to pay.

If you must take a gondola ride , please be certain you negotiate exact costs before you start. If a quoted price bothers you, walk away. There are plenty of gondoliers who are not out to gouge visitors.

If this isn't at the top of your Venice wish list, skip it. Save money for other splurges.

Eat Main Meals Outside Touristed Areas

This outdoor cafe on St. Mark's Square is a pleasant place to sip a cold drink and watch humanity pass by your table. People have been doing it for centuries. But you should think twice about having a full meal in such prime tourist areas, especially in Venice.

Prices are set for maximum profit--and to be fair, many proprietors in such places have to pay much steeper overhead costs than their counterparts outside the iconic centers of the city. But they also profit from tourists who will shrug and pay the tab, figuring it is the going rate for a meal in an unfamiliar place.

A few vaporetto stops from St. Mark Square is Accademia, which leads into the Dorsoduro section of the city. Here, you'll find lower prices and fewer tourists. You might also find something closer to an authentic Venetian meal.

Start or End a Cruise Here

Venice is a popular cruise stop, and many of the itineraries either begin or end here. It's a great place to combine a tour of Italy with a cruise on the Adriatic to Croatia, Greece or Turkey.

You can get from the train station to the cruise terminals on foot, but it is a fairly long walk, and, at times, less than pedestrian friendly. You'll pass through the Piazzale Roma , which is webbed with bus stops, parking garages and general confusion for the first-time visitor.

If your cruise ship starts its itinerary here, you benefit from a floating hotel room and meals aboard ship. It's a great way to avoid the high prices of Venice and yet still experience this beautiful city.

Visit Venice's Neighbors

When it comes time to set sail from Venice, consider allowing some time to  visit other cities in the region .

Trieste, Padua and Verona are short distances by train. Some budget travelers prefer the less expensive rooms and meals available in these cities. In the case of a visit to Padua (Padova), you can connect by train dozens of times a day in as little as 30 minutes travel time and for €10 or less. Milan is about three hours by train; Lake Como is roughly four hours; to the south, Florence is as little as two hours away and a second-class fare sometimes comes in under $50.

Be aware that faster trains on these routes could cost more money. Strongly consider second-class fares and remember that there are bus routes that sometimes prove more convenient and frugal than the trains.

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Traveling to Venice on a low budget

Known for being a romantic getaway destination, Venice attracts millions of visitors every year who come to explore the canals and lively atmosphere. After visiting the city more than seven times now, we finally feel ready to put together this guide on  how to travel to Venice on a budget , featuring the best things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and more.

Let us start by saying that Venice is not a cheap city overall. Especially with the overtourism that has hit the city in the past one or two decades. In this travel guide, we have gathered our best tips and tricks to make your visit to Venice as budget-friendly as possible, but it is wise to manage your expectations.

Traveling to Venice on a budget – Money-saving tips

Venice is an expensive destination, so if you will be traveling on a tight budget but still want to fully experience the city, you will have to be mindful of your itinerary.  Planning ahead  is the best thing to do in this situation, as you will be able to make choices on what to visit and organize your schedule to take advantage of the free attractions.

To get you started, we have gathered some practical tips on how to save money for your budget-friendly visit to Venice:

• Walk everywhere  – transport in Venice is expensive!
• Avoid bringing large and heavy luggage  with you, if you can.
• Take advantage of the dates and times when the attractions have  free admission  (more on that later on).
• Avoid overpriced restaurants  that are clearly going after tourists, with big menus outside and people calling you out on the street. Eat at local rotisseries instead.
• Make one big meal for the day, and buy snacks on the market or in small shops to keep you satiated through the remaining hours.
• Don’t waste money buying water bottles  – Venice has several drinkable water fountains.
• If you want to experience Venice by the water, buy a Vaporetto ticket instead of a Gondola ride.
• Consider staying in Mestre  (on the mainland) and taking the bus/tram to the city. Accommodations in Mestre are considerably cheaper and the bus ride is very quick and affordable.
• Avoid traveling to Venice during the high season or important holidays , such as the Carnival in February.  Read more about when to go to Venice.
• Wander a lot through the canals.  The best thing to do in Venice is entirely free : getting lost in the picture-perfect alleys, and discovering unique shops, and art galleries.

Free attractions in Venice to make your trip budget-friendly

Venice is one of the cities that has the highest density of museums, galleries, and churches per square meter. One thing is certain: you will not be bored. In order to make this trip to Venice fit into your budget, here is a short  list of things you can do for free :

• St Mark’s Basilica  – The visit to the iconic Basilica of Venice used to be free, but as of April 2022 when this article is being written, the admission is now charged 3 €. Entrance is still free for those attending prayers, mass, and services through the side door (Porta dei Fiori).
• Rialto Bridge  – Another iconic spot in the city of canals, visiting the Rialto Bridge and the Rialto Market is entirely free and a great experience.
• Enjoy the best views of the Grand Canale from the rooftop at Fondaco dei Tedeschi  – You will need to book a visit ahead and be there on time but trust me, it is worth it. During a 15 min visit, you will have the most amazing views from the top of the Rialto Bridge. They are usually fully booked, and can’t accommodate walk-ins.  Use this link to book your spot.  
• Bridge of Sighs  – The best view of the Bridge of Sighs is from the Ponte della Paglia and is entirely free of charge. Crossing through the Bridge of Sighs is possible if you pay for the full visit to the Doge Palace and the dungeons. 
• Basilica Santa Maria della Salute  – Located almost at the old customs buildings, this remarkable church is free to visit. Admission to the sacristy costs 4 €.
• Explore the Jewish Ghetto  – Located in Cannaregio, this is one of the most interesting areas of Venice. If you feel hungry, make sure to stop for a tasty delicacy in one of the shops.
• Libreria Acqua Alta  – Tucked away in the Castello neighborhood, this not-so-hidden gem is a must-go if you seek unique locations.

Best 3-day itinerary for visiting Venice on a budget

Now that you already know what are the best free things to do in Venice for your budget trip, let us help you plan them through a  perfect 3-day itinerary . We have put together an optimized travel itinerary where you will be able to visit the best locations in a smart way.

Day 1 of the Budget Venice Travel Itinerary

Kick-off this Venice budget trip by crossing off the most touristic spots from your list:  head to St Mark’s Square early in the morning  to catch it still empty. Take your time to explore the buildings in the square, as there is so much to see here – St Mark’s Basilica, the Doge Palace, St Mark’s Campanile, the Correr Museum, the Florian Café, the Astronomic Clock, the Bridge of Sighs and the columns of St Mark and San Todaro.

If you would like to visit the Doge Palace, we recommend buying your ticket in advance  using this Get Your Guide link . The full price is 28 € and the visit is very much worth it, in our opinion.

After spending the morning checking these attractions, head to the  Contarini del Bovolo staircase , an architectural masterpiece tucked away in the Venice alleys. Checking the stairs from the outside is free,  but going in will cost you 8 € .

Next, make a stop to see the famous  La Fenice Opera House . This is the most iconic theatre house in Venice, built on 1792 to replace the old San Benedetto Theatre that burned down. In fact, this is the reason for its name – which means “the phoenix” in Italian – referring to the bird that rises from the ashes. It is possible to visit the La Fenice in two different ways, via the theatre tour or when watching an opera performance.

Stop for lunch at Rosticceria Gislon, a very local place with honest local food and affordable prices. If you want to try something local, don’t miss out on the carrozzas. If you are up for a gelato, stop just around the corner at Gelatoteca Suso.

You can make a stop to check out the unique bookshop called  Libreria Acqua Alta , then head towards the Rialto Bridge to explore this side of the city. From the Rialto Bridge, you will have some of the most beautiful views of Venice’s Grand Canale. Take the time to get lost in the alleys of this region as they are some of the most beautiful ones. If you time it just right, you can book the visit to the rooftop at  Fondaco dei Tedeschi  right at sunset time to enjoy it even more (see the view you have from the rooftop in the picture below).

For the evening, we recommend stopping for bites and drinks in the Dorsoduro neighborhood. Around Campo Santa Margherita you will find a lot of options of bars and restaurants to choose from.

Day 2 of the Budget Venice Travel Itinerary

On this second day in Venice, we recommend visiting the neighbourhoods and attractions located a bit outside the mainstream tourist path. Start the day in the Cannaregio neighbourhood, making your way to the  Jewish Ghetto . Even though the ghetto takes only a small part of town, it is incredibly important to Venetian history. You can visit the Jewish Museum to learn more about it or get a guided tour.

Cross the Grand Canale through the Ponte degli Scalzi bridge and you will arrive at the sestieri of Santa Croce. Wander the small alleys towards the south, going in the direction of the Accademia bridge. Stop by the  Ca’ Pesaro  on your way, a renowned Venetian art gallery. Even if you do not want to pay for a visit, the building itself is worth checking out. You will see this is one of the most local regions of Venice, with many quiet streets, without too much touristic buzz – which is amazing to see!

Make a stop at the Rialto Market  before noon to see it in full bloom. The fish market in Rialto is quite unique, with many typical catches from the Venetian Lagoon. For lunch, however, we recommend avoiding this region around the Rialto Market since most restaurants are very overpriced and made for tourists. Instead, we recommend getting a bite at a small restaurant in this region of Dorsoduro – you will cross many options along your way.

This side of the river is filled with students and young people due to the presence of the  Ca’ Foscari University .

There are also a few interesting museums you will want to check out on this side of the river – the  Gallerie dell’Accademia  and the  Peggy Guggenheim Collection  are two that deserve a mention. The first has an extensive collection of Italian artwork and the second is a well-curated collection of modern art pieces.

Walk until the end of the Dorsoduro until the old customs house called Dogana. From here, you will have a great view of the Venetian Lagoon. Make a stop at the  Basilica Santa Maria della Salute  on your way back. Cross the Accademia Bridge back to the St Mark’s neighbourhood or catch a traghetto.

Don’t know what a traghetto is?  Discover all transport options available in Venice.

Go back to St Mark’s square and through the Riva degli Schiavoni in the direction of the  Venice Arsenal . Take some time to check out the entrance of the Arsenal, which holds strong importance to Venice’s history. During their golden days, the Venetian Arsenal used to build one ship per day, which is super impressive!

Grab an Aperol Spritz to enjoy the end of the day and way for the sunset. The best place to watch the sunset in Venice is right here, in front of Hotel Bucintoro.

Day 3 of the Budget Venice Travel Itinerary

For the last and final day in this Venice Travel Itinerary on a Budget, we recommend purchasing a daily Vaporetto ticket and going for a  day trip to Murano and Burano . During the summer, another alternative is to visit the  Lido  instead and check out their beach bars.

Continue reading:  The perfect day trip to Murano and Burano from Venice.

Costs breakdown of a 3-day Venice trip

If you’ve read this far, you already understand that Venice isn’t a cheap destination but there are many things you can do to make your trip more affordable. To help you plan the budget for your upcoming Venice trip, here is our cost breakdown:

Where to eat in Venice

Finding a good place to eat in Venice is not as easy as one would assume so. The number of restaurants that are basically overpriced tourist traps is outstanding, and it may be hard to navigate to find local and good places to eat. Here are a few places we recommend eating in Venice:

• Rosticceria Gislon : A small rosticcerie where local venetians go to eat. I have learned about this place from my family, who are used to coming here for generations. They serve very honest, affordable, and authentic Venetian dishes. Try the carrozzas and the fish or nero di seppia risotto.
• Ostaria A La Campana : A very discreet and authentic place located in the middle of St Mark’s chaos. This place is such an amazing find, the food is delicious, well-priced, and extremely local.
• Muro San Stae : Located in Santa Croce, this place had a very good value for the price. The food was very nice, the service was effective and the restaurant itself had a very nice ambiance.
• Osteria Giorgione da Masa
• Osteri ai piè del ponte
• Bottega ai Promessi sposi
• Birreria la Corte  (for pizzas)

How to get around Venice?

The best way to get around Venice is  by foot.  Not only is it free, but walking around is the only way you will be able to explore the little alleys and feel the true vibe of this city. We strongly recommend taking some time to wander outside of the main touristic paths to explore the hidden corners of Venice.

Since there are no cars in Venice, the public transport system uses the  waterbuses called Vaporettos . You can purchase single, two-way, or daily tickets, depending on how much you intend on using them.

The famous  Venetian Gondolas  are also available at almost every corner. The gondolas can’t exactly be classified as a transport method since they are mostly offered for touristic purposes. The price for a gondola tour starts at 80 €.

Now, if you are wondering about the best way to get to Venice, flying is probably the best choice if you are coming from abroad. The closest airport to Venice is Marco Polo Airport, but there are several others you can consider when buying your ticket. Check out our guide on the  best airports in Venice .

Where to stay during your budget trip to Venice?

Accommodation in Venice will take up the largest portion of your travel budget. You can choose to stay in  Mestre , which is on the mainland, to save some money on accommodation. However, we prefer to stay on the island because it does have a different feeling to wake up here and not have to plan our way back and forth to the mainland.

If this is also your case, we recommend staying in the  San Polo  or  Cannaregio  neighborhoods.  San Polo  is where the Rialto Market is located, and you will have many affordable options of places to stay there. The  Cannaregio  neighborhood is still very local and, therefore, also offers many affordable accommodation options. 

If you want to save on accommodation costs, it is probably smart to stay away from accommodations too close to St Mark’s Square, which are often overpriced. The only exception is if you find a good deal, which is exactly what happened to us when we last visited Venice in 2022. We ended up staying in a hotel only 5min from St Mark’s square for a bargain on the price because we travelled during the low season.

Check our extensive guide on where to stay in Venice with hotel tips for each neighbourhood.

Ideas for day-trips from Venice

Will you have extra days in the city of canals and don’t know where to go? There are many destinations located only a boat or train ride away from Venice that you can go for an amazing day trip.

Here is a short list of destination ideas for a  day trip from Venice :

• Murano & Burano

Check more options for tours in Venice

We believe you are now fully equipped to plan the most amazing budget trip to Venice! If you have any other money-saving tricks for exploring Venice without breaking the bank, leave them in the comments below so we can help other travelers too.

Fe & Edo

Organizing your trip

To help you plan your trip to Italy, we have put together our favorite planning resources: 

• Flights : Get affordable flights to Italy on  Skyscanner.com . 
• Travel insurance : Make sure you are protected during your trip. We use  VisitorsCoverage  whenever we are traveling abroad. 
• Renting a car : We always use  Discover Cars  to get the best car deals. 
• Accommodation : Find the best hotels and apartments on  Booking.com . 
• Activities : Get fun ideas of what to do and buy unique activities with  Get Your Guide.
• SIM Card : Stay connected during your trip with  Airalo.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. This means that we get a small commission from any purchase you make, at no additional cost to you!

Fernanda is the Brazilian half of Mauka. Originally from Rio de Janeiro (Brazil), Fernanda is also part Italian. After having lived in several countries such as the Netherlands and the UK, she ended up moving to Slovenia with Edo. Traveling is her biggest passion and she is always looking for new places to explore - be it on another continent or a hidden hike close to home.

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40+ Venice Travel Tips for First Timers & Must Knows Before You Go

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The iconic city of Venice, Italy is one of those few destinations that requires no introduction. Famed the world over for its dreamy gondola-filled canals, this historic city (built over 100 islands) is the stuff of pure bucket list dreams, with a legion of obsessed fans all over the world.

And I get the obsession. Venice and I go way back. It’s the first city I ever visited in Europe, the first city where I ever missed a flight, and coincidentally where my boyfriend formally asked me to be his girlfriend… on Valentine’s Day, no less!

So believe me when I say I take it personally when people call Venice overrated.

I mean… can it be crowded and smelly in the summer? Yes. Can some restaurants and shops be wildly overpriced? Absolutely… but it’s still one of the most magical places in the world, so long as you do it right.

And after many repeat visits over the past decade, I think I’ve gotten a grasp on how to do Venice properly.

So, in this post, I’ll be sharing all my best Venice travel tips for first time visitors to help ensure you love this city as much as I’ve grown to. (Boyfriends sold separately)

Read on for my top Venice must-knows before you go.

Save this list of Venice Travel Tips for Later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

1. Venice in Italian is Venezia

First off, let’s get one thing straight: the glorious city known to us as Venice is actually known in Italian as Venezia.

This is the name you’ll see at train stations, bus stations, and scrawled across a staggering amount of souvenir shop hats.

SO, remember: Venice is Venezia, and they are not in fact two different places (a blunder that’s more common than you think!)

2. Learn some basic Italian before you go

On a similar note, I do think it’s important to learn some basic Italian before you go. 

Venice gets its fair share of rude tourists so locals often appreciate when you make the effort and knowing some basics can go a long way, like…

• Hello (in the morning/afternoon):  Buongiorno (Bwon-JOOR-no) 
• Hello (in the evening):  Buonasera (Bwon-ah-SAY-ruh)
• Thank you:  Grazie (GRAHT-see-eh)

3. Stay overnight in Venice rather than do a day trip

Because of how pricey accommodation can be, many people opt to visit Venice as a day trip. 4 in 5 visitors in fact, according to some sources .

And if you’re considering that as an option, please picture me with a pouty face, stomping around and insisting you don’t.

Truthfully, 2-3 nights minimum is needed to get a feel for all that Venice has to offer, plus (even more crucially) staying in Venice overnight allows you to soak in the sights both early in the morning and late at night when crowds are at their lowest. In a city as busy as Venice, this bonus is invaluable!

Plus as of spring 2024, Venice will begin a trial of their controversial €5 entry fee for day trippers. So, save your money and your sanity – stay overnight! I promise it’s worth every penny.

4. Avoid visiting Venice during peak periods

Now, In terms of when to visit, the bad news is Venice doesn’t really have much of a quiet season at all.

That said, there are definitely aggressive peak seasons that I’d advise you avoid – namely summer, Easter & Carnival… unless your idea of a good time is waddling through narrow streets with a mosh pit of tourist-strangers .

Winter (outside of Carnival) is generally when you’ll find the least crowds in Venice.

Unfortunately though, this season brings more potential for rain, gloom, and floods, so to be safe, Spring and Fall are probably better times to go.

5. There are two airports close to Venice you can fly into

In terms of arriving in Venice, there is of course the Venice Marco Polo Airport which less than 5 miles away from the city centre, but there’s also the much smaller Treviso Airport which is about 25 miles away, and services budget airlines like Ryanair and Wizz Air. 

For that reason, you can often find cheap flights that fly into this airport from other European countries, so it may be worth looking into if you’re visiting multiple countries on your trip.

6. Know that there’s many options for getting to Venice from Marco Polo Airport

From Marco Polo Airport, the quickest way to get into central Venice is booking a private water taxi, which comes at a hefty price tag starting at 120 euro minimum. For larger groups though, this might be worth it, especially because it only takes 30 minutes to get into the historic centre.

NOTE: If you want the airport water taxi experience for a cheaper price, you can also book individual slots here on a water taxi that you’ll then share with others.

Another much cheaper but slower option is to take the Alilaguna water bus, or vaporetto which has three potential routes that go to central Venice for only 15 euro… but takes over an hour.

And the final option is to take either a bus or a taxi which is slightly cheaper. It’s important to note though that the closest you can get to the historic centre on wheels is Piazzale Roma , and from there you’ll either need to finish the journey on foot or hop on a water bus or taxi anyway, so it’s probably not the best option unless you’re staying super close to there.

In any case, I would ask your accommodation the best way to get there and they’ll be able to advise.

7. Know there’s many options for getting to Venice from Treviso Airport

From Treviso Airport, while there are some buses and shuttles you can book, again the closest you can get to the historic centre will be Piazzale Roma. So, bear in mind you’ll need a plan to get from there to your accommodation!

In any case, if you don’t mind transferring, the cheapest option from Treviso is actually a combination of a bus and then train into Venice.

8. Beware of the two ‘Venezia’ train stations

On that note, apart from flying, an easy way to arrive in Venice is by taking the train. Venice is superbly well connected to the rest of Bella Italia through the Italian rail network which has an impressive 2000+ stations to choose from.

If you do take the train though, beware of a common tourist mistake that many first time visitors fall into: there are actually two stations that begin with Venezia – Venezia Santa Lucia and Venezia Mestre.

Venezia Santa Lucia is the central train station in Venice’s historic centre, right by the Grand Canal. In most cases, this is the one you’ll want to go to.

Venezia Mestre on the other hand is located on the mainland and is where you’ll find a lot of admin buildings… but also locals, because (surprise!) it’s much cheaper to live there.

Odds are, unless you’re staying in Mestre, you won’t have much reason to disembark at Venezia Mestre Station , so make sure you’re looking out for Venezia Santa Lucia Station, and you don’t accidentally get off early.

9. Remember you can’t drive in Venice

Now, the last option for arriving in Venice is by car but again, remember: no cars are allowed in Venice’s historic centre. It’s part of what makes this city so aggressively charming.

SO, if you drive to Venice, you will need to leave the vehicle at a pricey parking lot on the outskirts of the city during your stay. So, it’s not really an option I’d recommend unless Venice is just part of a big road trip you’re doing that includes other destinations.

10. Know the pros and cons of staying in historic Venice vs. on the mainland

Now let’s chat about where to stay.

When choosing accommodation, the two main areas to consider in Venice proper are either the historic centre or Mestre (the mainland bit where options tend to be cheaper).

If budget allows, staying in the historic centre is ideal because then you can easily explore Venice before and after the day trip crowds. It’s also much dreamier to be staying in the city, and is the option I’d recommend to any first timer.

… If you really can’t resist a hotel deal in Mestre though, don’t fret – you’re only a short train/boat ride away from Venice proper.

11. Understand the pros and cons of Venice’s different neighbourhoods

Alright – now it’s time to get our bearings with Venice’s historic centre, which is actually more fun than in most cities, because this magical city happens to be shaped like an actual fish.

… Oh yes. What a plaice.

Anyways, this historic centre of Venice is divided into six districts known as sestieri , arranged fishily like so:

If money is no object, staying in the belly of the fish is going to put you in close proximity to most major sights, with San Polo and San Marco being the priciest and busiest neighbourhoods.

Dorsoduro (bottom belly, I guess) is also a great choice, with some more affordable options and some quieter pockets as well.

If your goal is avoiding crowds though, the tail of the fish, Castello , is the largest of the sestieri and also the quietest, relatively speaking. 

And in terms of transport links, the most convenient areas are Cannaregio , the head of the fish which is home to Santa Lucia train station and Santa Croce, the fish nostrils, which is home to the transport hub Piazzale Roma… but of course, the vibes here may not feel as classic historic Venice as many visitors want.

NOTE: Some visitors may choose to stay at another island in the Venetian lagoon for a quieter and more affordable experience, but again, I’d really recommend staying in historic Venice for your first trip just to make the most of your time there.

Overall, there are lots of pros and cons to all these sestieri . If you’re stuck on finding the best place for you, check out my guide to finding the best accommodation every time to help narrow down your choices.

12. Pack light

Out of all the Venice travel tips I’m sharing in this post, packing light is possibly the most important.

I get it – maybe you want to bring a bunch of ballgowns for the most epic photoshoot of your life… or maybe you need space to hoard magnets. Either way, you might need to rethink how much you bring.

Not only do water taxis and boats have restrictions on how much luggage you can bring on board, you’re almost always guaranteed to end up carrying your bags on your own at some point, whether to get up on a bridge, on or off boats, etc.

So, don’t bring any bags you can’t reasonably carry yourself.

13. There are many options for navigating Venice via boat

By now, you should realize there’s only two ways to really get around Venice: on foot or on water.

In terms of water transportation, the cheapest option is to go by Vaporetto , which are like public water buses. One way tickets are quite steep at €9.50, so I’d advise buying a TravelCard that includes unlimited travel for set time periods like 24h, 48h, 72h or a week.

You can also book a Motoscafo or private water taxi that will cost significantly more, with trips within the city often going for 70 euro or more.

Of course there’s the world famous gondolas too, but do note that these are more for sightseeing than actual transportation, so we’ll discuss them later.

14. Don’t be too reliant on GPS in Venice

For shorter distances, the better way to get around Venice is (in my opinion) on foot.

One important thing to note however is that GPS services like Google Maps don’t work very well in Venice, with the blue dot often very confused as to where you really are amidst the city’s sea of centuries-old buildings.

So, if you’re highly Google Maps-dependent like me, it’s time to practice some old school navigation skills. Plan your route with landmarks and street names! Take note of your route as you go! Leave a trail of breadcrumbs! (But don’t.. because Venetian pigeons are scary)

In any case, remember to not rely on Google Maps, and plan your routes accordingly. Having a backup offline map downloaded or a paper map is also probably a good idea.

15. Add additional time buffers and assume you’ll get lost

Another silly but helpful Venice navigation tip?

Just assume you’ll get lost. Honestly. Because you will!

And if you assume it’ll happen, then you’ll ensure you have extra time buffers between booked activities, thereby minimizing stress and saving the family vacation. Yay!

16. Get your bearings by using Venice’s unique street signs

When trying to find your way around, your best friend in Venice (besides me, of course) will be the city’s unique street signs, known as nizioleti , which are beautifully painted on the walls of buildings.

… The trouble? Nizioleti can be deceptively confusing, because Venice has many unique terms for streets and places that aren’t familiar to most visitors.

So, here’s a quick crash course!

The most common word you’ll see is Calle which refers to a typical street. Some variations of this you might see include:

• Calle Larga , which means wide street and
• Calleta, which means a narrow street

In any case, this term generally applies to streets that have buildings on both sides. 

This is in contrast to a Fondamenta which is a canalside street that has a building on one side and a canal on the other.

Similarly, a Riva is a street that has buildings on one side and then a larger expanse of water on the other side.

Ramo is a small side street that often leads to a dead end and Sotoportego are unique passageways that go under buildings.

And you’ll also see other terms used for street that don’t really have as much to do with the physical properties of the street itself, but rather makes reference to its history, like…

• Salizada for instance is a word used for some of the city’s most historically important streets, and therefore the ones that were paved with cobblestones first
• Rio Tera refer to streets that used to be canals before they were filled to make streets, and
• Ruga are streets that used to be filled with compacted soil so your shoes wouldn’t get dirty

There’s also Campo which refers to a typical Venetian square. Unlike other places in Italy where the word piazza tends to be used for Square, Venice has only one Piazza, Piazza San Marco or Saint Mark’s Square.

The word Ponte means bridge, and you’ll see this one a lot because Venice has hundreds.

And lastly, the word used for most Venetian waterways is actually Rio, whereas Canal is reserved only for the big ones like the Grand Canal.

To get your bearings, you can look for signs with a red frame and lettering, which usually have an arrow pointing you in the general direction of famous landmarks. There are also some special yellow ones as well that do the same job.

The word “per” in these cases translates to “for” so, this way FOR Rialto Bridge.

17. Book big must-do attractions in advance

Now, let’s move onto Venice attraction tips!

As I mentioned before, no matter when you go to Venice, it’ll be busy, so if you have your heart set on any attractions, pre-booking is essential. You can do so online at a variety of places, like here:

• (Recommended!) Venice Passes & Bundles
• Doge’s Palace
• St Mark’s Basilica
• St Mark’s Bell Tower
• Classic Gondola Ride

For timed attractions, I would advise booking either the first possible time slot or the final one if your goal is to minimize crowds.

For untimed attractions, I would aim to either be there when it opens or just before it closes, because the middle of the day is almost always going to be the busiest time.

18. Book a sunrise tour

If your goal is to experience Venice like you own the place, walking around at sunrise is pretty much the only way to do it.

I booked a summer sunrise tour of Venice years ago and still think it’s one of the best things I ever did in the city. Getting to see all of Venice’s main squares and canals void of people was absolutely priceless.

And while sadly, the tour I took doesn’t seem to be offered anymore, there’s still a few alternatives, like this one that that includes breakfast.

19. Or book an after-hours tour

On the other hand, if you’re more of a night owl than an early bird, you can also look into after hour tours for certain attractions which get you entry after they close to the general public.

Here’s one for instance that gets you into St Mark’s Basilica after hours.

20. Choose the right sightseeing pass for Venice

Now if you’re hoping to save money during your visit in Venice, one thing to consider is getting a sightseeing pass ( you can browse some options here ).

Confusingly, Venice has several and the best choice for you will depend on which specific attractions you’ll see and how long you’re going to be in the city.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the most popular options:

• Venice Pass : Probably the best deal for most 1st timers because it includes a lot of attractions like St Mark’s Basilica, Doges’ Palace and also a gondola ride, plus many other attractions.
• Venice Discovery Pass : Includes key attractions plus public transport on Vaporetto boats, including to and from the airport.
• Venezia Unica City Pass: Includes Doge’s Palace, Bridge of Sighs and Armory, plus extra churches and museums

Overall, if you plan to do a lot of sightseeing, one of these passes would probably be worth it.

To choose which one, I would write down my top must-do activities and the duration of my stay, then see which pass fits those needs best.

21. Go beyond the main popular attractions in Venice

Of course, like in many major cities, some of the most charming parts of Venice can be found beyond the most famous sights.

In Venice, some wonderful gems to explore include…

• Liberia Acqua Alta : One of the world’s most beautiful bookstores which has a really cool section in the back with displays made of ruined books. This isn’t so much a secret anymore but it’s still very cool!
• Free rooftop terrace at Fondaco dei Tedeschi : Beautiful and free views that you have to book in advance here

… As well as plenty of museums that many visitors miss, so be sure to do a bit of extra research to find cool hidden gems!

22. Remember: Gondola prices are fixed

Now, let’s move onto gondola tips for Venice. The first thing to keep in mind is that prices for gondolas are actually fixed, so there’s no room for negotiation.

According to the official City of Venice regulations, gondolas can fit up to 5 adults at once and as of October 2023 cost a fixed rate of €80 for a 30 minute ride during the day, and €100 at night.

NOTE: If you don’t mind sharing with strangers, a more budget-friendly way to get a gondola ride may be booking a seat for yourself like through here .

23. Gondolas take different routes so choose wisely

Now, while gondolas all cost the same, it’s important to note that they don’t take the exact same routes, so be sure to ask the gondolier beforehand where they go, and try to make sure it’s a combination of both smaller canals and also the big iconic must-sees.

BONUS TIP: Be sure to also vet the vibe of your gondolier, because that can make a huge difference in your experience. The last thing you want is a grumpy gondolier that seems to despise everything about you…

24. Try to time your gondola ride for the morning

Especially if you’re visiting in the summer, I would time your gondola ride for the morning because…

• a) It’s the least busy time
• b) It’ll be less hot (there’s no shade on these gondolas!)
• c) Morning is when gondoliers will likely be in their best moods

25. Consider boarding your gondola in a quieter part of town

Of course, you can expect that line-ups for gondolas around the Grand Canal area will be the worst, so if you don’t mind visiting quieter less “famous” canals, then I’d advise starting your gondola ride elsewhere for a more peaceful experience overall.

26. Board a Traghetto for a budget-friendly boat ride

Now, if gondolas feel overly pricey, then there’s still another way you can get a boat ride experience in Venice for a fraction of the cost. 

Enter the almighty Traghetto!

These boats whisk locals and tourists alike across the Grand Canal for the low, low price of €2. That’s right, you could literally ride the Traghetto back and forth forty times for the price of one scenic gondola…

Now, is it the same experience? Obviously not. A Traghetto ride is fairly short, and involves a larger less opulent boat. But for the price of a bottle of water? It’s not a bad budget hack at all.

27. Consider booking a rowing lesson instead of a gondola ride

Lastly on the boat front (because wow, I didn’t realize I had this many boat-related Venice tips), consider booking a lesson with Row Venice if you’re hoping to get out on the water in a non-touristy fashion.

This unique (non-profit) company offers rowing lessons and tours that allow you to traverse Venice’s iconic waterways in a way that most tourists never get to experience – with you in control!

The cost is on par with a regular day time gondola ride, except the lessons last 90 minutes so you’re on the water for the triple the time. Definitely worth looking into if you’re looking for unique things to do in Venice.

28. Avoid dining in St Mark’s Square

Alright, now it’s time to tackle Venice food tips!

First off – as enticing as they look, do avoid the fancy restaurants in St Mark’s Square.

While the views and vibes are immaculate (with someone playing the Godfather theme on the accordion at all times, it seems), the restaurants here are well known tourist traps with inflated prices and often poor food quality.

If you do want to enjoy the atmosphere though, maybe opt for a coffee or drink instead, then eat elsewhere.

29. Dine far away from major tourist attractions

On a similar note, I would try to dine as far away as possible from major tourist attractions for the same reason.

Most of the time, these restaurants cater to tourists and don’t prioritize good service or quality since you probably won’t come back anyway.

I find that quality and prices tend to improve dramatically once you find yourself outside of the main tourist hotspots, so be sure to shop around and when in doubt, look at reviews.

30. Only go to restaurants with prices

Another important Venice must-know? Always make sure prices are on clear display before you commit to a restaurant.

Over the years, there have been many headlines like this one about Venetian restaurants overcharging tourists for meals… and getting away with it. So don’t let that be you!

A common trick is they charge pricey items like seafood by weight, so pay special attention to that.

31. Look out for ‘Venezia Autentica’ restaurants/businesses

If you’re stuck and need a quick frame of reference, there’s an organization known as Venezia Autentica that aims to support and highlight authentic local businesses that are run responsibly.

So when in doubt, you can always look out for their stickers or browse their website for ideas.

32. Try Venetian dishes while in Venice

Now another important Venice food tip is to try traditional Venetian cuisine over stereotypical “Italian foods” like pizza or pasta. 

I know that sounds blasphemous, but hear me out: wood fire pizza ovens are for the most part banned in Venice, so good pizza is in pretty short supply… plus Venetian cuisine doesn’t tend to focus much on pasta.

Instead, try some local dishes, like for instance…

Cichetti: These are little bite-sized dishes you can eat with your hands or a toothpick, usually for €1-3 each. They come in a huge variety so they’re great for tasting lots of local flavours in one go and are common when you go to a Bacaro which are cozy traditional Venetian taverns.

A popular dish commonly seen at a Bacaro is Sarde in Saor (Sardayn Sour) which are fried sardines served with vinegar and onion.

Venetians are also big on risotto, with a soupier iteration known as Risi e bisi which is rice and peas, that is very popular.

… Also very popular is polenta, which is paired with a variety of dishes like small lagoon shrimp (like in Polenta e shcie ) and liver (like in Fegato alla veneziana ).

And if you feel you may combust without pasta on this trip (no judgement), try Bigoli which is a classic Venetian pasta that’s like thick spaghetti, often served as Bigoli in salsa which means with an onion and fish sauce.

33. Bring a refillable bottle because there’s free water fountains

If you have a free second between inhaling all those delicious Venetian classics, another important must-know is to stay hydrated.

Luckily, staying hydrated in Venice is free!

All over the city, you’ll find many free drinking fountains offering clean and drinkable water, so bring a refillable bottle and take advantage.

34. Read up on more general Italy food and drink tips

There are many more general food tips I could tell you about Italy, but then we’d be here forever.

SO I’d recommend reading my full Italy travel tips post for more info on things like coffee etiquette, the structure of a typical Italian menu, and many more delicious secrets.

35. Take note of English/Italian names of landmarks and places

Now once you arrive in Venice, there are a few things you must know.

Firstly – keep in mind that the Italian and English names of places are often used interchangeably, so it’s helpful to remember that these are indeed the same places, for instance…

• Piazza San Marco = St Mark’s Square
• Palazzo Ducale = Doge’s Palace
• Ponte di Rialto = Rialto Bridge

36. Be prepared to pay for public toilets 

Public toilets in Venice can often cost as much as €1.50, so if you’re a total cheapskate like me, remember to use the toilet whenever you have an opportunity to so like at the hotel, at a restaurant or at museums.

Also be sure to keep coins on you so you can pay for these public toilets when needed.

37. Beware of pickpockets 

Unfortunately, Venice is a very popular city with many potential easy targets for pickpockets, so you’ll encounter a fair few in busy areas.

So, be vigilant and make sure you keep a hand and eye on your belongings.

… And read my full guide on how to avoid pickpockets in Europe for more guidance!

38. Don’t feed the pigeons 

Besides selfie sticks and sunburns, the most common thing you’ll see in St Mark’s Square is pigeons. And lots of ’em.

More than likely, you may also witness a tourist feeding and taking photos with said pigeons. Please refrain from doing this as it’s a banned and fineable offense … which also happens to be fairly gross.

39. Don’t swim in or touch canal water

Speaking of gross, another Venice must know is that you should never under any circumstance touch the canal water or try to swim in it.

Not only is the water really dirty and often laced with sewage, it’s (also) a fineable offense of a few hundred euro.

40. Look for artisan shops to support

Another important Venice tip? When shopping for souvenirs, do go to small artisan shops rather than buy cheap copies from typical souvenir stalls.

Anywhere really close to big touristy squares or attractions are likely to have mass produced goods that aren’t of great quality. So, make sure you shop around for goods that are handmade – they’ll definitely last longer!

41. Don’t be tempted by the fake designer goods 

On a similar note, you may see some people in Venice selling fake designer bags on the street.

Not only are these (of course) low quality copies, it’s also illegal in Italy to buy counterfeit goods, so beware of that.

NOTE: These salespeople can be very persistent, so the best course of action is to simply not engage at all.

42. Don’t randomly stop to take photos and block the way

This can be very frustrating for everyone involved, so just be mindful that you’re not the only person in Venice and you should get out of the way if you want to stop for photos.

43. Do a day trip to the nearby islands in the Venetian lagoon

Lastly, if you have time, make sure you explore more of the Venetian Lagoon besides just Venice!

Burano for instance is this gorgeous rainbow island that is honestly one of the prettiest places I’ve ever been to. You can learn more about the best things to do in Burano in my full guide, or read my Venice to Burano guide for guidance.

There’s also the similarly named Murano, which is well known for its artisan glass production, as well as several more islands with their own draws, so be sure to leave some room in your itinerary for exploring further!

I hope you enjoyed those Venice travel tips! 

Let me know in the comments if you have any more Venice must-knows to add. Safe and happy travels! 🙂

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

🧳 Eagle Creek: My favourite packing cubes

💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

1 thought on “40+ Venice Travel Tips for First Timers & Must Knows Before You Go”

I’ve never been to Venice before, but it’s on my list for next year so I’ve been searching for first timers guides! Some super handy tips in here 🙂

C x Lux Life London

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5 Venice Travel Tips to Survive Venice (Without Going Broke)

I’m pretty sure there’s an inverse law between how cheap a flight ticket is, and how expensive the destination itself can be. Whether it’s a conspiracy between budget airlines and local travel bureaus I’ll never be sure, but what I do know is that Venice falls exactly along this trendline: cheap to get to, expensive to be in.

Anecdotally speaking, Venice is one of the most touristy destinations in all of Europe. At any given time, there are big tour groups clogging up the narrow streets, or people like me doing a hit-and-run weekend trip while it’s still warm. In either case, prices in Venice are steep, whether you just want to enjoy a pizza by the canal or are pulling out your hair trying to find a hotel for under 150€ per night.

That’s what inspired me to write this post – to a share a few ways to get a little more bang for your buck while you’re in one of the prettiest, priciest, and busiest tourist spots in Italy. Enjoy!

Take the water bus from the airport

First things first, you’ve got to get into town. And what better way to do it than by boat? Directly from the airport, you can board a water bus into the city for a mere 15€. Compared to costly water taxis or the hassle of getting a bus and transferring later, you can get straight into the heart of Venice in roughly 30-45 minutes for a relatively low fee.

Tip: You can get from Venice to the airport for 15€, or build in a stop in Murano for 10€ more. ( See fares )

Eat Italian street food for lunch

Let’s face it: dinner is going to drain you, with main dishes hovering around 15€ or more for some simple pasta – but you can still do lunch on a budget in Italy, while experiencing local food. Stop by Bigoi for a filling bowl of pasta to-go and chow down next to a scenic canal. Basic pasta will run you as little as 5€, leaving you plenty of cash to supplement it with a gelato!

Tip: Bigoi is a cheap way to experience one of Venice’s signature dishes, squid ink pasta.

Pay 2€ to skip the queue at St. Mark’s

Time is money, amirite? So no reason to stand in line for over an hour to get into a church that won’t even let you take photos inside 😉 Instead, you can be smarter than all the people queueing up and buy a skip-the-line ticket for just two bucks.

All you have to do to use the ticket is pull it up on your phone and show it to the attendant at the special speedy entrance. In our case we were even an hour late for our appointment and they still let us enter – even more reason to at least try to skip the queue!

Tip: Visit the Veneto Inside website to skip the line for just 2€.

Visit Venice in the off season

By October and November, the number of tourists in Venice reduce significantly, as does the competition for hotels, restaurants, and entrance to Venice’s most popular sights. If you have some flexibility, coming during the off season can save you a lot of money on your bookings and make the trip more relaxing. While the rest of Europe is cold and grey, Venice remains relatively moderate in early Winter and can be enjoyed with a jacket just as well!

Wake up before the crowds

It’s just you, the waning moonlight, and a few photographers (well, and the garbage men and of course the world’s largest population of pigeons). This is the best time to take photos in Venice, because you’ve almost got the city to yourself and the soft morning light mixes magically with the ancient brick and bridges in the city.

St. Mark’s at dawn on a cloudy morning

What do you think is the most travel-hackable city?

Let me know in the comments where you love to visit on a budget even though it’s not a budget destination!

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About the author

Hi there! I'm Monica, an American expat living in Germany for over six years and using every opportunity to explore the world from my homebase in Berlin. My goal is to capture my memories in photos and posts that show how easy it is to start from scratch and travel the world by working abroad.

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6 Essential Venice Travel Tips from a Local

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Venice Travel Tips (from a Local Venetian Guide)

This post is all about the best Venice travel tips from a true Venetian local!

The last time I was there, I took an amazing walking tour in Venice , Italy. The guide was a native to Venice, which is quite rare! More than 20 million tourists visit Venice every year, and only about 55,000 people live in the historic city nowadays.

Hearing from a local guide was very enlightening, and he had a bunch of wisdom for our group.

Here are six great Venice travel tips he shared with my group that will help you maximize your experience in La Serenissima .

1. Taking a gondola ride

To avoid getting ripped off by a gondolier, make sure you know the standard rates for a thirty-minute gondola ride: 80 euros during the day and 100 euros at night, from sunset until eight AM.

This is for the ENTIRE boat, not per person! And up to six people can ride in a gondola and split it.

Before you board the gondola, ask for the price. If the gondolier tries to tell you the price is going to be more for any reason, they are not telling the truth. Politely but firmly let them know that you know that the rates are set.

Discuss the route with the gondolier before you leave, and do not pay them in advance! Pay them at the end after it’s been thirty minutes, and they have taken you on the promised route.

Make sure to pay with exact change, or else they just might try to keep your extra money as a “tip” without giving you any change back.

Fun fact: Venice gondoliers make upwards of $150,000 a year. Don’t feel bad for them—and don’t let them rip you off!

💡 Tip: You can book a gondola ride in advance here . It will cost a bit more, but it could save you time trying to figure out where to go and facing long lines. Just beware the tips above still apply to the pre-booked tours. The quality of your gondola ride will rely 100% on the Gondolier you end up with.

2. How to find the best gelato

Real fruit gelato always tastes better than gelato made with artificial flavoring. So are you ready for the most delicious of the Venice travel tips?

To spot the best gelato, just take a look at the coloring. If it’s brightly colored—think bright green for pistachio gelato or hot pink for strawberry gelato—then it’s probably made with artificial flavoring.

Real gelato has more of a muted tone. So if you see pastel colors, it’s more likely to be authentic, fresh, and delicious Italian gelato.

It should go without saying to look for gelato shops on side streets and not in the main tourist areas. You’ll probably save yourself a euro or two and find much better gelato!

📌 Book this Venice street food tour with a local guide

3. A gondola ride for two euros

If you don’t want to spend 80 or 100 euros on a gondola ride, you can still have the experience for a much cheaper price: just two euros.

How? Hop on a gondola crossing the Grand Canal. It’s called a traghetto .

Traghetto means “ferry ride” in Italian. It’s not a fancy ride, and the journey only takes a minute or two, but it’s enough time to snap a quick photo of yourself and get an incredible view of the Grand Canal from a traditional gondola.

Taking a traghetto ride is an authentic and affordable way to experience Venice. One of the most reliable traghetto crossings is at the small wooden dock right beside the Rialto fish market.

📌 Want to know the secret to the 2€ gondola ride? Read my complete guide to riding the traghetto .

4. Don’t get ripped off buying Carnevale masks

One of the most popular souvenirs you can buy in Venice is your very own colorful Carnevale mask.

Almost every souvenir shop you pass will be selling masks. However, to avoid buying an overpriced fake, make sure to take note that someone is inside the shop making the masks .

Real Carnevale masks are made inside the shop. If you walk in and don’t see anybody making masks, they are probably selling cheap, mass-produced masks instead.

The best place to find great authentic masks is the San Polo neighborhood of Venice.

5. Don’t get scammed buying Murano glass

The second most popular Venice souvenir is colorful Murano glass. Almost every souvenir shop you pass will be selling plates, ornaments, and tumblers made of this pretty, colorful glass.

To avoid getting ripped off by a cheap fake, your best bet is to buy your souvenir from the island of Murano itself. It’s a short water bus ride away from Venice.

However, if you’re buying from a shop in Venice, make sure to check that the glass says “Made in Murano” or “Made in Venice” on it. NOT “Made in Italy” or “Made in China” or anything else.

Real Murano glass will also not be too brightly colored, and it won’t be extremely cheap. Those are a couple more of the sure signs that you’re getting a fake.

📌 I recommend this boat tour of the islands of Murano and Burano , which includes a Murano glass-blowing demonstration at an artisan’s workshop.

6. Get lost!

The number one Venice travel tip I got from my local Venice tour guide was to get lost in Venice! Literally.

Wander off the main streets into the city’s narrow alleys and spend a few hours walking around without looking at a map. You will feel like you’re in a completely different city once you move away from the chaos and crowds of touristy areas like St. Mark’s Square and Rialto Bridge.

One of my favorite neighborhoods for wandering around is Cannaregio. Located on the northern side of Venice, this quiet neighborhood has a more local and less touristy feel to it.

If you’re afraid to get really lost, remember that Venice is an island so you won’t go very far!

Cannaregio is the perfect place to stroll around at sunset and stop for dinner somewhere along one of the canals. This is also where I’ve stayed the last few times I’ve been to Venice.

My favorite Venice hotel is the Grand Hotel dei Dogi and I would recommend it for anyone looking for a great location, exceptional service, and a totally unique experience.

Where to Stay in Venice

Here are some of the best places to stay on your trip to Venice:

Most Unique Hotel: Grand Hotel Palazzo dei Dogi — as I mentioned, I have stayed here multiple times now and think it’s one of the best hotels in the world!

Best Luxury Hotel: The Gritti Palace — This is by far the most luxurious hotel in all of Venice, so it’s no surprise it’s at a great location. While I’ve never stayed there, it’s on my bucket list for sure!

Most Convenient: AC Hotel Venezia — I stayed here for one night and enjoyed it. It’s really close to the train station and cruise terminal, making it a very convenient location for getting in and out of the city.

Best Budget Hotel: Hotel Olimpia is a great affordable option in the heart of Venice.

True Venetian Stay: For a real authentic experience, you can rent this gorgeous apartment during your stay in Venice . Local apartments can be a great way to save money in Venice because many are cheaper than hotels, and you will typically have access to a kitchen where you can cook some of your own meals.

More Amazing Things to Do in Venice

Before you go, check out these amazing things to do in Venice:

• Admire Michelangelo’s famous David at Gallerie dell’Accademia di Venezia
• Take a guided walking tour of Venice
• Visit the colorful—and often overlooked—island of Burano
• See all 11 Amazing Things to Do in Venice, Italy …

I hope these Venice travel tips will help you on your trip as much as they helped me!

🩷 Where to next? Check out my travel guide to Italy .

For more tips on visiting Italy, be sure to read the following:

• What Not to Do in Italy: 10 Common Tourist Mistakes
• The Perfect One Week Italy Itinerary
• The Perfect Two-Week Italy Itinerary

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About Denise Cruz

Denise is a marketing executive who escaped corporate to travel the world… twice. A Brazilian native living in the U.S., she’s lived in 4 countries and visited 35+ others. After side-hustling her way to financial independence, she curates solo destination guides, slow travel tips, and travel blogging advice on Wander Her Way. When she’s not on the road, you can find her in Miami with her dog Finnegan.

45 Essential Tips for Venice, Italy – A Must-Read for First-Time Visitors

By Author Rossi Thomson

Posted on Last updated: 4th September 2022

Categories Veneto , Venice

Here are 45 essential tips for Venice in Italy to make your visit to this unique and magical city a truly wonderful travel experience.

All tips are based on my explorations of venice over a period of 15 years (with six of them spent living next door to the city of water)..

By sharing these tips with you, I want to help you streamline your Venice travel planning and make your time there truly memorable and enjoyable.

Venice in Italy is a magical city that sits at the top of many travel wishlists. Founded 1,600 years ago on a cluster of islands in the Venetian Lagoon, throughout the centuries Venice has charmed many travellers with its beautiful architecture, rich catalogue of art, and deep layers of history. Nowadays, millions of people head to Venice each year eager to see for themselves its spectacular scenery and unique cultural heritage. 

At the same time, visiting the city of water also presents some very specific challenges. Venice, after all, is a car-free city where you need to rely on boats and your own feet to take you places. It is also a city that is struggling to preserve its centuries-old traditions and way of life against a world of cheap travel, fast movement, and excessive consumption. 

As result, Venice can make you feel both elated and dejected. It can charm you and repel you. And it can make you fall in love with its beauty and yet do your head in with its whimsicalities. Often, within the same minute.

So, I wrote this blog post to help you experience this magical city in the best possible way while avoiding common pitfalls. My 45 essential tips for Venice, Italy are organised into nine groups: when to visit , airports , accommodation , travel , food , sightseeing , health and safety , money management , and time management . I’ve also included a special bonus tip for Venice right at the end of this blog post. In a way, this bonus tip is the most essential tip of them all! You’ll see!

I hope that my 45 essential tips for Venice will come in very handy so that your time in the city of water is as exciting and enriching as possible. Especially, if this is your first visit there. 

Have a look!

45 Essential Tips for Venice, Italy – A Must-Read for First-Time Visitors

When to visit tips for venice, italy.

1. Venice is Always a Good Idea

Venice is one of the most famous cities in the world and a dream destination for millions of people. With its unique location in the heart of the Venetian Lagoon and with deep layers of history, visiting the city of water is always a good idea. 

Venice has a lot to offer every month of the year. And its beauty is dramatically marked by the seasons. With the wisterias dripping in purple blooms in spring, with the canals glistening in millions of shades of teal in summer, with autumnal mists adding to the mystery of the city, and with the riot of Carnival in winter, Venice always is a delight to discover.

So, don’t delay it! As soon as you have a few free days and travelling is an option, head to Venice to see for yourself its spectacular scenery and rich heritage.

2. Yet The Best Months to Visit Venice Are…

Venice is especially great to visit during the shoulder season. This is the travel period between the low and the high season and vice-versa. So, from March through April to the start of May and then from the end of September through October to mid-November are particularly lovely times of the year to find yourself in Venice.

This is when the crowds of tourists are very manageable, the city feels authentic and it basks in beautiful spring or autumnal sunlight. Temperatures during the shoulder seasons in Venice customarily are also very pleasant.

3. Plan Your Visit to Coincide with a Large-Scale Venetian Event

If your travel plans are not dependant on school holidays or any other such restrictive scheduling, then try to visit Venice during one of its big traditional celebrations. This way you can experience the pomp of the city, relive its glorious past, and/or see the world’s latest trends in terms of films, art, and architecture.

The Carnival of Venice is a particularly great time to visit the city of water. It is held in the weeks before the Catholic Lent. Then you have La Sensa in May, the Vogalonga in May or June, the Festa del Redentore in July, the Historic Regatta and the Venice Film Festival in September, and the Festa della Salute in November. Add to this the Venice Biennale and the Venice Architecture Biennale which are held over several months. 

Click here for more details:

• Carnival of Venice – History and Traditions of the World’s Most Illustrious Party

4. Stay in Venice as Long as You Can

Venice truly has a lot to offer. Trying to squeeze its many landmarks in a day or two is a recipe for rushing around and missing out on some truly unique and wonderful sights. If you only have a day or two at your disposal, by all means, don’t let this stop you from coming to Venice. My first visit to the city of water was indeed a day trip. While time really flies quickly here, a day can be a great taster of Venice and it can start a lifelong love affair with the city of water. As it happened to me!

Yet, if you know that you are unlikely, for whatever reason, to return to Venice in the future, then try to put aside as much time as you can for your visit to it. If you have three full days, for example, you can spend two days in Venice and then dedicate a day to exploring other islands in the Venetian Lagoon. If you have four days, then you can spend the fourth on a day trip to the Italian mainland. And if you have five, six days or a whole week, then you can explore Venice in a very methodical and yet spontaneous way, delving deep beneath the surface and discovering the truly hidden gems that make the city of water so unique. From visits to artisan workshops to taking gondola rowing lessons, the variety of things you can do in Venice is only limited by your imagination. 

5. Make Sure That You Visit Venice Sooner…

…rather than later. Venice requires a certain physical and emotional stamina. Walking everywhere and spending whole days on your feet can get very taxing very quick. Especially during the very hot summer months and the chilly winter days. Then, the huge quantity of art, architecture, history, and traditions to process can be simply overwhelming.

So, don’t postpone your visit to Venice, Italy. Do it as soon as you can both in terms of time and money. 

Airport Tips for Venice, Italy

6. Know the Best Airports for a Venetian Holiday

There are several Italian airports you can fly into for a visit to Venice. The two most convenient ones are:

• Venice Marco Polo Airport
• Treviso Airport

Yet, you can use the following airports, too:

• Verona Airport Valerio Catullo
• Trieste – Friuli Venezia Giulia Airport
• Bologna Guglielmo Marconi  Airport

While the first two are physically the closest airports to Venice, the other three are a very manageable train ride away, too. So, depending on plane ticket prices and available flights, keep an open mind as to which airport you can fly into for your Venetian holiday.

• 5 Best Airports for Venice, Italy (With Transfer Options and Travel Times)

7. Plan Your Trip from the Airport to Venice

There are many different ways to get from your airport of arrival to Venice.

If you fly into Venice Marco Polo airport, then you can choose one of the following options to reach your destination in the city of water:

• water bus ;
• shuttle bus ;
• shared water taxi ;
• private transfer by car ;
• private transfer by car and boat ; or
• taxi. 

Shuttle buses, taxis, and private transfers by car will drop you off at Piazzale Roma. Once there, you can either walk or use Venice’s water buses ( vaporetto ) to travel to the vaporetto stop that is nearest to your accommodation. Click to buy a single, one-day or a multi-day ticket for Venice’s vaporetti in advance.

Shared water taxis and private transfers by boat should drop you off at the nearest to your accommodation mooring point.

If you fly into Treviso Airport, then again you can rely on a shuttle bus to take you all the way to Piazzale Roma in Venice. Another option is to get a bus from Treviso Airport to Treviso Centrale train station and then travel to Venice by train . Alternatively, you can book a private transfer , too.

And if you fly into either Verona or Bologna , then you can take the shuttle from the airport to respectively Verona Porta Nuova train station or Bologna Centrale train station. High-speed and fast regional trains connect Verona and Bologna to Venice all throughout the day.

Flying into Trieste Airport is very convenient, too. The airport has its own train station which is served by direct trains to Venice.

• Bologna to Venice – A Beautiful Day Trip in Italy – for tips how to reach Venice from Bologna by train
• Verona to Venice – An Unmissable Day Trip in Italy – for tips how to reach Venice from Verona by train

8. To Be Extra Organised, Book Your Train Tickets to Venice in Advance

If you decide to travel from your chosen airport to Venice by train, check these two websites for train prices and times: 

• Italo Treno

The first website shows you all available trains for your date and time of travel. This includes high-speed trains, fast regional trains and regional trains. It pays to book your tickets for the high-speed trains in advance as they increase in price the closer to the date of departure it gets. The prices for tickets for the fast regional and the regional trains remain unchanged no matter when you buy them.

For close distances in Italy, the fast regional trains are the best option. They are inexpensive, run often, and stop only at the most important cities and towns along the way. For long distance travel in Italy (for example, Bologna to Venice), the high-speed trains are the better option. They cost more but offer quick and smooth travel.

The second website is of Italy’s private high-speed train operator. Italo’s trains offer fast and smooth travel between many of Italy’s largest cities. Again, it pays to purchase your tickets in advance as the price increases the closer to the day of travel it gets.

9. Allow Plenty of Time to Reach the Airport from Venice

At the end of your time in Venice, make sure that you allow plenty of time to travel back to your chosen airport. During your stay in the city of water, you will come to feel how time seems to flow differently here. Somehow slower, more unhurried. Plus, the beautiful setting of Venice makes you prone to daydreaming and relaxing into yourself. So, it may be a bit of a shock to the system when you need to quickly switch back.

Plan carefully how long it’s going to take you to reach the airport from your Venetian accommodation . Then add 30% more time to it. Consider that you will have to carry your luggage (probably heavier on account of the many wonderful things you have bought in Venice) all the way to the nearest mooring point or vaporetto stop or even to Piazzale Roma or the Venezia Santa Lucia train station. There may be crowds you need to navigate. Or you may get lost for one last time in the maze of narrow curving streets.

While the vaporetti and the trains here traditionally run on time, give yourself some extra minutes just in case. Plus, if you take the  water bus to Venice Marco Polo Airport, don’t forget that there is a long-ish walk from the docks to the terminal. 

10. Shop Exquisite Italian Food, Fashion, and Crafts at the Airport

Getting early to the airport after a wonderful vacation in Venice pays in yet another way. You will have plenty of time to explore the many lovely shops there and stock on Italian food, fashion, and crafts.

This applies mainly if you travel back from Venice Marco Polo Airport or (to a degree) Bologna Airport. They are bigger and have several excellent shops. Buying at the airport can save you the effort of lugging extra weight from your accommodation in Venice to the plane. 

Just remember that the choice is not going to be as big as in Venice itself. Also Bologna Airport will not necessarily have traditional for Venice crafts. Still, shopping at an Italian airport is always very exciting. Especially in terms of coming across delicious deli items, the latest Italian styles, and beautiful artisanal gifts. 

Accommodation Tips for Venice, Italy

11. Stay in Venice Proper

Venice has two parts:

• The historic centre of Venice – built on 118 islands in the Venetian Lagoon and surrounded by water on all sides. This was the capital of the Republic of Venice and nowadays is one of the biggest tourist destinations in the world. 
• The mainland area of Venice – known as Venezia Mestre or simply Mestre, this is the large borough on the mainland. It houses many of Venice’s administrative and local government offices.   

Many guidebooks and blog posts suggest that you stay in Mestre as hotels there tend to be cheaper. Yet, if you want to explore the beauty and heritage of Venice and truly feel the authentic atmosphere of the city of water, then I would strongly suggest that you book your accommodation in the historic centre.

This way you will have Venice all for yourself in the early mornings and the late evenings. Plus you won’t have to spend time and money every day on train or bus transport from Mestre across the water to Venice. While Mestre has a pretty historic centre, it’s not on par with Venice. If this is your first or, you suspect, only visit to Venice, then it’s advisable to have the full Venetian experience by actually staying in the historic centre.

I usually prefer to book all my accommodation through  Booking.com . Click to see all available options for places to stay  in Venice, Italy.

If you need some visual help in terms of precise location and price range, have a look at this map. It gives you a quick idea of the prices and whereabouts of the many hotels and other forms of accommodation you can book for your stay in Venice, Italy.

You can zoom in and out in order to search for a place to stay. You can also click on the option that interests you to find out more details or to make a booking directly.

In addition, if you click on ‘Accommodation’ in the top right corner of the map and select ‘Experiences’ from the drop-down menu, then you can see some truly exciting experiences you can book directly in Venice, Italy:

12. Choose Carefully the Venetian Sestiere (or Island) To Base Yourself in

A  sestiere  (or one-sixth in English) is a term used to signify the districts of Italian cities and towns that are divided into six subdivisions. Venice is one such city and it has six sestieri:  Cannaregio, Castello, San Marco, San Polo, Santa Croce, and Dorsoduro . 

San Marco and San Polo are the two most central  sestieri . This is where a large number of the most famous Venetian sights are. They also tend to be the busiest spots in town.

My personal favourite is Dorsoduro. It provides easy access to the train station and it’s dotted with wonderful churches, museums, and art galleries. It affords beautiful views over the Grand Canal and the Giudecca Canal . Dorsoduro also tends to have pockets of peace and quiet next to some very lively hotspots. It is also where you can go on a guided visit of Ca’ Foscari – the University of Venice.

Before booking your accommodation in Venice , make sure that you research in some detail the city’s six sestieri . Then choose the one most convenient for you based on the things you want to see in Venice, how far you are prepared to walk to reach your hotel/B&B, and what other amenities you want to have nearby.

Again, while some guidebooks and blog posts suggest staying on either Giudecca or Lido – two of the largest islands in the Venetian Lagoon – if this is your first visit to Venice or if you are only spending a couple of days here, then try to stick to Venice itself. Both Giudecca and Lido are lovely and offer additional things to do. Yet if you want to concentrate on Venice and the main sights here in addition to a few hidden gems , then the daily travel to and from these two islands (no matter how close they are) can become a time-eater and an inconvenience.

13. Decide on the Type of Accommodation to Book in Venice

There are many different types of accommodation in Venice to please any pocket. From lavish five-star hotels to humble hostels, from atmospheric B&B’s to historic palaces, you will have a lot of fun choosing where to stay. Heck, you can even book a room in a monastery during your time in Venice!

For a detailed overview of the different types of accommodation to pick from, have a look at this blog post:

• Where to Stay in Italy – 19 Types of Accommodation to Choose from in Italy

14. Consider Paying a Bit More for Some Purely Venetian Extras

Your stay in Venice can be made so much more special if you choose to book a place equipped with some typical for Venice architectural and artisan details. Here are some examples for your interest:

• Altana – a traditional for Venice rooftop terrace. Built of wood, it offers an open-air space to spend precious hours of relaxation and to simply admire the splendid views of Venice from above. 
• Murano glass chandeliers – there is nothing like staying in a room adorned with an original Murano glass chandelier. It makes you feel really grand and it gives you a very immediate understanding of the lavish heritage of the city of water.
• Frescoed walls – many old Venetian palaces nowadays have been turned into hotels with a varying number of stars. With frescoed and stuccoed walls and ceilings, they offer you a chance to feel surrounded by art at all times during your Venetian stay.
• Canal views  – ask for a room with a canal view (although this may cost a bit more). You want to see the boats and gondolas passing by, the beautiful facades of the buildings on the edge of the canal, and just have the full Venetian experience. 

15. Space is a Premium in Venice

Venice is a densely built city where buildings lean onto other buildings in a never-ending parade. Also, the Venetians of yore seem to have been physically a tad slimmer than us. 

So, don’t be surprised if your hotel room seems somewhat small or is a bit quirky in shape. Space is often ingeniously utilised though. You will see how every nook and cranny have been made to serve a purpose and/or look pretty in many different ways. I remember booking a single room in a Venetian hotel about ten years ago. Upon arrival, I realised that in the past my single room must have been a cupboard. Or something like that. It was very narrow and long. Still, it was beautifully frescoed. 

The last hotel we stayed in Venice was in a palazzo just round the corner from Rialto Bridge and with views of the Grand Canal. We had the Murano glass chandelier, walls dressed in beautiful fabrics, the works. And two bathrooms. Both of which were tiny yet one had a bath in. It was a bath that you could only sit in but still a bath.

Travel Tips for Venice, Italy

16. travel light for an easy transfer to and from venice.

You don’t want to arrive in Venice burdened with heavy suitcases. Lugging them around town can be incredibly tiring and frustrating. Just consider all the bridges you will need to go up and down. Not to mention the crowds that you will need to brave in the more touristy parts of Venice. Of course, you can hire a porter at the train station or a water taxi to take you right to your hotel. 

Otherwise, consider packing lightly for Venice. Leave space in your suitcase for all the wonderful things you can buy there, too: handmade Venetian masks , authentic Murano glass, precious jewellery, wonderful antiques, great paper products and so on.

17. Get Off at the Right Train Station for Historic Venice or Venice on the Mainland

There are two train stations under the name Venezia (which is Italian for Venice). Both of them are on the same train line:

• Venezia Santa Lucia train station – if you want to visit Venice proper, i.e. the historic centre of Venice on the islands in the Venetian Lagoon, this is the train station you need to travel to. It’s an end of the railway line station. Reaching it involves crossing the lagoon on the incredibly long bridge Ponte della Liberta’.
• Venezia Mestre train station – if you have a specific interest in Mestre – the mainland administrative borough of Venice – you need to get off at this station. Bear in mind that it precedes the Venezia Santa Lucia train station.

First-time visitors of Venice at times get confused and get off the train at Venezia Mestre when, in fact, they need to stay on the train to Venezia Santa Lucia.

18. When in Venice, Know Your Watercraft Options

Venice is a city of water and the traditional way to travel around town is by boat. In a tiny, simplified nutshell, there are four types of watercraft you can use here:

• Vaporetto – Venice’s water buses go up and down the Grand Canal, some smaller canals, around the city, and connect it to nearby islands. 
• Motoscafo – Venice’s water taxis. They are beautiful and sleek. Quite pricey, too. Yet, if you want to do Venice in style, consider booking a motoscafo .
• Traghetto on the Grand Canal – black boats that look like an unadorned gondola. They serve to take you across the Grand Canal at spots that are far from the four bridges that cross it. You can read all about my first experience taking a traghetto in Venice here . 
• Gondola – Venice’s most famous boat, the elegant gondola can be hired for a panoramic ride around the city’s pretty canals. There are set prices for a set amount of time. If you want your gondolier to serenade you, this costs extra.

19. Learn How to Orient Yourself in Venice

Venice is a city built on 118 islands in the heart of the Venetian Lagoon. It is completely car-free and looks like a maze where it is only too easy to lose yourself. Often navigation apps go a bit haywire here and may try to send you across a canal where there is no bridge or make you walk in circles time and time again. 

Plus, I always take with a pinch of salt any walking times estimated by the navigation app and double them in my mind. It’s only too easy to get distracted when walking in Venice and end up taking the wrong turn. Plus, navigating the crowds of people at the city’s most popular spots can stretch immensely any time estimate.

Yes, there is nothing better than to relax and simply explore Venice by following its narrow curving streets to whatever hidden gems they may take you. Yet, things can quickly get frustrating if you have only a limited amount of time or if you are trying to find your hotel heavy luggage in hand.

So, it always pays to spend a bit of time looking at the map of Venice before your visit to the city. Having a clear idea of where your accommodation is located or how close to it are the different sights you want to visit, can really help you make a general plan for your time in the city of water.

Learning a few of Venice’s topography terms is also very useful. Check the Place Names section in this blog post to find out what calle , campo , fondamenta , rio tera’ , salizzada , and sotoportego mean. This will come in handy when finding your way around Venice.

20. When in Venice, Walk on the Right and Don’t Obstruct the Bridges

When walking around Venice make an effort to keep to the right at all points. Venice is a living city with its own citizens who try to go about their daily lives while millions of people around them sightsee, suddenly stop in their tracks to take photos, and sometimes behave with no decorum.

With narrow curving streets – many of which are used by thousands of people every day – keeping to the right ensures that the pedestrian flow is as fast and smooth as possible. 

Bridges are very much Venice’s links of communication. They connect the dozens of tiny islands on which the historic city is built, provide access to shops and private homes, and serve as useful points of reference when you are walking around. As such, obstructing a bridge or lingering on a bridge is frowned upon by the Venetians and can actually incur a heavy fine.  

Food Tips for Venice, Italy

21. Think Before Ordering a Pizza in Venice

Think carefully before ordering a pizza in Venice. While pizza is the most famous Italian export, it is not a traditional Venetian food. In Italy, there are dozens of regional and provincial cuisines. They are incredibly varied and based on centuries-old customs, techniques, local products, and in some cases trade routes that were established as early as the Middle Ages and the Renaissance.

As such, when in Italy, it’s always best to eat the food that is traditional for the city or province you are in. Pizza – originally from Naples – has taken deep roots all over Italy in the past few decades. Yet, Venice is the only place where I would advise caution before tucking into one.

Why? Often the pizzas served in Venice are not freshly made and have arrived in the city of water mass-produced and in a frozen state. This is especially true for those eateries that have printed pictures of dishes plastered all over their windows or on a large board by their entrance. 

If you simply must have a pizza in Venice, then make sure that you head to the places visited by the locals. This blog post gives you a good idea of where to find them and what to expect there in terms of pizza. It’s in Italian, so if need be, you can use Google Translate to get the gist of it.  

22. Indulge in Venice’s Traditional Sweets and Pastries

Sugar first reached Europe by the way of Venice. So, the city of water has a longstanding tradition in terms of pastries, sweets, and baking.

Start each day with a typical local breakfast of coffee and pastries. The most popular one is called brioche . It looks a bit like a croissant but it’s larger, much less flaky, and it can have so many different fillings. My favourite one is pistachio spread (imagine a chocolate spread but made of ground pistachios instead of cocoa! It’s so good!).

During the Carnival, tuck into frittelle – fried balls of dough stuffed with different creams or chocolate. The rest of the time, indulge in tiramisu, pasticceria mignon (sweets and cakes in tiny sizes), marzipans, local biscuits (like the Esse from Burano ), and handmade chocolates. I am partial to Pasticceria Rosa Salva but there are dozens of great patisseries all over town.

A good way to sample the best of Venice’s sweets and chocolates is to join a guided tour. This one will introduce you to a Venetian master chocolatier and their exquisite truffles, pralines, and hot chocolate. This one will take you on a morning walk of Venice so that you can enjoy the city’s main sights while tucking in a number of traditional local pastries and sweets. While this kid-friendly tour will open the world of Venetian sweets and desserts in front of your eyes by taking you to authentic local bakeries and patisseries across all six Venetian sestieri and revealing to you the stories of Venice’s most famous sugary delights.

• 14 Typical Italian Breakfast Foods and Drinks or What Do Italians Eat for Breakfast
• 10 Rules of Breakfast in Italy or How Do Italians Eat Breakfast

23. Have Lots of Traditional Venetian Seafood

Venice is a great place to indulge your love for seafood. With centuries-old culinary traditions and with the Venetian Lagoon providing a huge variety of fish, crabs, and molluscs, you will be spoilt for choice.

For an idea of what’s on offer, head to Rialto Fish Market early in the day to see the freshest catch. Over ten centuries old, the market is housed in a fetching Neo-Gothic structure a step away from the famous Rialto Bridge.

Grab a portion of fritto misto from a nearby eaterie. This is a mix of seafood and julienned vegetables that have been battered with durum wheat semolina and cornmeal. Then they are served deep-fried on a bed of polenta.

Deep-fried moeche is another typical for Venice dish. These are soft-shelled crabs that can be enjoyed only for a limited time in autumn and spring. Sarde in saor is sardines in a sweet and sour sauce made with vinegar and raisins among other things. It sounds wacky but it’s so incredibly tasty you will regret not giving it a try. Don’t miss a taste of baccala’ mantecato – the most iconic dish of the Venetian cuisine. It’s prepared with stockfish from Norway’s Lofoten Islands and has been a Venetian staple since the 15th century.

For a quick introduction to Venetian seafood, join a specialised guided tour in the city of water. This semi-private food experience will take you from Rialto Fish Market to two of Venice’s top eateries so that you can wine and dine on traditional Venetian drinks and dishes. And this one offers you a five-course Italian seafood feast cooked by a Venetian sailor.

24. Stop for Coffee in Venice

Just like sugar, coffee also reached Europe through Venice. In addition, the world’s oldest coffee house – the mythical Caffe’ Florian – first opened its doors here on 29th December 1720. 

Coffee traditions are still very much alive and kicking in Venice. So, indulge in proper coffee during your Venetian holiday. Caffe’ Florian is a must-see for its wonderful decor, literary connections, and coffee heritage. Grancaffe’ Quadri is another unmissable historic coffee house in Venice.

Don’t forget the many small torrefazioni – coffee roasters. They roast and serve wonderful varieties of coffee in Venice, too. Torrefazione Cannaregio is particularly famous.

• 21 Types of Italian Coffees and How to Order Coffee in Italy Like a Local
• 19 Rules of Italian Coffee Culture or How to Drink Coffee Like an Italian
• Coffee in Italy or 101 Facts about Italian Coffee Culture

25. Snack on Cicchetti and Tramezzini – Venice’s Traditional Finger Foods

Cicchetti (pronounced chi–KEH–tee) are traditional Venetian finger foods. Served in small portions, there are many varieties of cicchetti and they can cost as little as a euro or two per piece. This can be a small slice of white polenta with a helping of baccala’ mantecato or a piece of crusty bread with one of many delicious toppings.

A mix of cicchetti makes for a great lunch in Venice giving you a taste of many local foods and food combinations. Customarily served in small eateries called bacaro (pl. bacari ), cicchetti are washed down with an ombra – a small glass of house wine.

Osteria Al Squero is a particularly famous place to eat cicchetti in Venice. You will find it right opposite Squero Tramontin – a gondola-making and -repairing boatyard in the sestiere of Dorsoduro.

Tramezzini are triangular sandwiches made with super soft crustless bread and stuffed with many different fillings. For example, sliced boiled egg and artichokes, sopressa salami and red radicchio , tuna fish, ham and mushrooms, and so on. They make for a great snack or – if you buy a selection – for a nice and inexpensive lunch, too. 

As you walk around Venice, keep an eye out for small bacari serving delicious cicchetti and tramezzini . Alternatively, this guided tour will introduce you to the flavours and traditions of Venetian finger food.

• Italian Food – 13 Ways to Eat Well in Italy Without Breaking the Bank

Sightseeing Tips for Venice, Italy

26. Head Early to Venice’s Most Famous Sights

To avoid the crowds and queues, make sure that you head early to Venice’s most famous sights. For example, St. Mark’s Basilica and its bell tower. Queues here can be an hour or so long. However, if you turn up right before opening times, you can minimise or totally avoid queuing.

Plus, you can get lots of beautiful photos of Venice’s most iconic sights without the usual crowds of people that besiege them!

27. When in Venice, Get Off the Beaten Path

For all its worldwide famous sights and museums, Venice is also incredibly rich in hidden gems. No other destination gives you as much satisfaction as Venice when exploring it off the beaten path.

Quirky corners coupled with curious stories abound here. Make sure that you experience as many of them as possible for yourself. This blog post gives you pointers for 101 little-known yet fabulous things to do in Venice. And this blog post will reveal to you the haunted Venice of ghostly apparitions, centuries-old legends, and even mysterious crypts. Have a look!

28. See Venice from the Water

Venice was designed to be seen from the water. Its lavish palaces have their most splendid facades turned towards the canals. Its most important buildings are on the water’s edge.

Make sure then that you see Venice as the visitors of the city in the past centuries did. From the water, floating down its canals on a boat. This way you can truly appreciate the beauty, the elegance, and the grandeur of Venice – a city that challenges all conventions of the traditional urban settlement.

There are many ways to get on a boat in Venice. Check tip number 18 above for four of the most popular watercraft here. Catching a traghetto across the Grand Canal is one of the simplest, quickest, and cheapest ways to see Venice from the water.

In addition, you can get on vaporetto line 1 from either Piazzale Roma or Venezia Santa Lucia train station and then travel all the way down to St. Mark’s Square. This way you can revel in the beauty of the Grand Canal and marvel at the most iconic buildings, palaces, and churches of Venice as they come into view. Click to buy your Venice vaporetto tickets in advance.

A gondola ride is one of the most iconic things you can enjoy in Venice. You can either have it all for yourself or share it with other passengers. If you prefer, you can have a romantic gondola experience followed by a meal for two. Seeing Venice from a sleek black gondola is the stuff memories are made of!

You can hire a gondola on-site by simply approaching a gondolier at one of the many gondola stops around Venice. The tour lasts around 25-30 minutes and the price is currently set at 80 euros for up to six passengers. If you want your gondolier to serenade you, this comes with a surcharge. Also, evening and night-time gondola tours cost more.

Alternatively, you may want to book your gondola tour in advance or combine it with different activities – from a walking tour to a photoshoot. There are many different ways to do it, so have a look here for an exhaustive list of the different options and the respective prices.

29. For the Best Introduction to Venice, Book a Guide

A private tour with a Venetian guide is an unmissable opportunity to delve into the history of Venice, discover hidden gems , marvel at unique works of art, and just get to know Venice as a local does.

With the sheer amount of things to do and see here, it’s only too easy to become overwhelmed and not know where to start from or what to see first. Or you may end up missing several must-see sights. In such cases, booking a private tour in Venice is a great way to truly experience the city of water and see it from the most authentic point of view. 

I always recommend Luisella Romeo from See Venice  and Erika Cornali from  When in Venice . Both are wonderful people, they speak several languages and are truly dedicated to bringing the beauty of Venice to you.

Alternatively, you may prefer using one of the large tour sites to pick a top-rated guided visit or activity in Venice. The best options are Viator , Get Your Guide , and Tiquets .

30. To See the Authentic Venice, Wake Up Early and Go to Bed Late

One of the best ways to see the authentic Venice, is to go for a walk around the city early in the morning and late in the evening. You will discover a whole new face to it. Free of tourist crowds, Venice is incredibly peaceful and cinematic and you feel like the luckiest person in the world to have all this beauty for yourself.

It really pays to wake up very early in the morning and go for a walk while the city still awakes. And then do it again in the evening and see how Venice quietly winds down after another hectic day. To have enough energy for these early rises and late bedtimes, make sure that you take an Italian riposo in the afternoon.

Health and Safety Tips for Venice, Italy

31. to walk around venice, bring your most comfortable shoes.

Venice is a car-free city which means that you will spend your time here walking everywhere. Taking the vaporetti (Venice’s water buses) or the motoscafi (Venice’s water taxis) is a great way to travel long distances around the city. Yet, it can be time-consuming and in the case of water taxis, very costly, too.

Plus, there are many places around town that can only be reached on foot. Benches are lacking, sitting on the steps of churches and historical buildings is forbidden, and spending long hours upright can be very, very tiring. Even if you are in great physical shape, Venice can be truly overwhelming. What with the many sights to see and the many masterpieces to walk up to, stop in front of and admire, your feet may start feeling heavy long before the end of the day.

Hence, it’s essential that you come to Venice armed with your most comfortable shoes. 

32. When You Walk Around Venice, Always Mind Your Step

While Venice is a nice and flat city that is easy (but taxing) to walk all over, make sure that you mind your step when strolling around town. Especially, in the following two scenarios:

• steps leading down to the water – you will notice that often some of these steps are covered with algae. Avoid stepping on them at all cost as they are very slippery. Many a tourist, eager to take a close-up artsy shot of a gondola or two has braved the steps with the green tinge. Only to find themselves completely soaked.
• edges of the canal paths during acqua alta – when the tide peaks, sometimes the water levels rise so high that Venice gets flooded. While, in most cases, you can put a pair of wellies on and still walk around town, you need to be careful not to incidentally end in the water by overstepping the edge of a canal path (known as fondamenta in the Venetian language).  

33. Never Swim in the Venetian Canals

Venice is universally known as the City of Canals on account of its 150 waterways. Narrow and wide, short and long, curved and straight, the canals of Venice are the city’s arteries.  

Swimming in them is not allowed for many reasons. A large number of boats – many of them motorised – crisscross Venice’s canals at all hours of the day, so it would not be safe for swimmers. Also, the water – beautiful and inviting as it looks – is polluted and you don’t want it on your skin or in your mouth. Lastly, swimming in the canals goes against Venetian decorum. This is a historic city of art, after all, not a seaside resort. Hence, a heavy fine awaits anyone swimming in the Venetian canals.

I would also advise you against sitting on the edges of the canals and dipping your feet in the water. You honestly don’t want the water on your skin. Plus, such behaviour will not endear you to the locals. 

If you want to swim, then head to one of the nearby beaches. Spiaggia Alberoni on the island of Lido di Venezia, the beaches of Sottomarina near the town of Chioggia , the beaches of Lido di Jesolo, and the beaches of Caorle are particularly famous and within an easy-ish distance from Venice.

34. If You Visit Venice In Summer, Bring Suncream

Venice can get incredibly hot in summer. Add to this the air’s high humidity and the feeling is of being inside a very hot oven. The strong sunlight is reflected by the water in the canals and it bounces off the beautiful facades thus making your eyes squint in pain.

A high factor suncream and sunglasses are a necessity!

If you are desperate for a bit of shade, head to the Giardini Reali – a small, nicely landscaped garden facing the Grand Canal next door to St. Mark’s Square. Alternatively, go for a walk in the Giardini della Biennale in the sestiere of Castello. My favourite small garden with free entry in Venice stands adjacent to Ca’ Rezzonico – the museum of 18th-century Venice. It’s lush with plenty of shade and flowering shrubs. Plus, it has a small playground for the kids to run around.

35. And If You Visit Venice in Winter, Bring an Extra Layer or Two

Venice is not a winter sun destination. While the sun may be shining high and the sky may be nice and blue, there is a chill in the air during the day and at night it can get very cold.

Sometimes, it even snows! This doesn’t happen often (more or less, once every couple of winters or so) but when it does, it turns Venice into a magical fairytale. A slippery one at that as the stone fondamente – Venice’s canal paths – can be challenging to navigate with a dusting of snow on top.

The rest of the time, the high humidity chills you to the bone and fogs often add to the mystery of Venice.

If you visit Venice in late autumn and winter, then definitely wrap up warm. It’s better to feel nice and cozy and peel a layer off when needed than suffer the cold chills.  

Money Management Tips for Venice, Italy

36. When in Venice, Expect to Spend

Venice is a difficult city to live, work, and do business in. With no cars, everything has to be transported by boats and then lifted and carried by hand. Insurance premiums are high and acqua alta can cause anything from inconvenience to devastation. Prices factor in all this.

So, Venice is not a budget destination and to truly see and experience its very best sides, you need to be prepared to spend. Mind you, not for tourist gimmicks and overpriced food. But for museum tickets, concert tickets, and exhibition entry fees. For great local food which is freshly made following centuries-old techniques. For handmade artisan items which you will love and use for years to come. And for beautiful jewellery, unique decorations, lovely handmade notebooks, traditional Venetian masks , luxury fabrics, charming antiques, and one-of-a-kind pieces of art. And, of course, for a gondola ride!

To be honest, in terms of daily expenses, I find London much more expensive than Venice. Whereas a single espresso in London can cost anything from £1.50 to £2.00, in Venice you can get a proper Italian espresso and a breakfast pastry for more or less the same money. And while a quick lunch from a chain shop in London can cost anything from £10 to £15, in Venice a lovely plate of cicchetti made in a small bacaro that has been there for dozens if not hundreds of years will cost less than that. So, you can get yourself a nice glass of wine, too.

37. When in Venice, Always Buy Authentic Crafts

There are so many wonderful things in Venice that it makes sense to take every opportunity to stock on some lovely gifts for friends, family, and yourself. In doing so, make sure that you support authentic Venetian artisans rather than yet another cheap souvenir shop. Imported souvenirs are cheap in Venice but they lack in quality and undermine the work of honest craftsmen. 

For example, cheap masks sold on the streets of Venice often are made with dyes that are harmful to the skin. While they are produced for decorative purposes only, often you are not told this by the stall trader eager to make a sale. It is much better to buy Venetian masks made in one of Venice’s acclaimed mask workshops where the traditions of Venetian mask-making have been researched in depth and brought back to life. 

Venice has a great concentration of skilled artisans and craftsmen. Visiting their studios and shops is such a great experience. They preserve the living history and traditions of the city. And their work needs support. From handmade glass, jewellery, and lace to unique ceramics, prints, silk velvets, and marbled paper, the choice is enticing and the quality is high!

• 10 Facts About Venetian Masks – History, Traditions, and Meaning

38. Bring a Water Bottle and Fill It for Free from Venice’s Water Fountains

You don’t need to buy bottles of water in your explorations of Venice. The city is dotted with dozens of drinking fountains providing for free deliciously cold water to both residents and visitors of Venice.

You quickly start to appreciate them when you are asked to pay 3 euros for a small bottle of water in a touristy cafe. 

Just bring a reusable water bottle with you and you are good to go.  

39. Invest in Passes To Maximise Your Sightseeing in Venice

To make your euros stretch further in Venice, consider investing in a pass that is designed to offer savings and convenience to visitors. Click on these links to get an idea of what to expect: 

• The Venice Pass
• Venezia Unica City Pass
• Chorus Churches Circuit
• MyPassVenezia App

40. Take Advantage of the Sales Seasons in Venice

There are two sales seasons in Italy. Traditionally, one is at the start of January and the other is in summer. The dates vary a bit from year to year and from one Italian region to another. They are decided on a regional level and publicised in the press in advance.

Venice is the capital of the Northern Italian region of Veneto . As such, you can check the dates for this year’s seasonal sales by performing a web search for saldi invernali in Veneto (winter sales in Veneto) or saldi estivi in Veneto (summer sales in Veneto).

Famous Italian and French fashion houses, as well as international high street brands, have their shops in Venice. So, timing your visit to coincide with sales season can lead to some great savings if shopping is what you like to do best. 

Time Management Tips for Venice, Italy

41. Have a Good Idea About What You Want to See in Venice

Venice is rich in sights to see and things to do. With all the walking, stopping for photos, and gawking at all the beauty around you, time in Venice quickly flies away. Plus, the more you see the more you want to see. Arriving in Venice without much of a clue and hoping that you will work out what to do on the spot is a recipe for wasted moments and missed experiences. You may still end up seeing some of the most famous landmarks. Yet looking back in hindsight, you may beat yourself up about how much you have missed. 

To make the most of your time in Venice, make sure that you research the many different things to do here in advance and have a clear idea of what you want to see and experience. Is it art and museums, beautiful views and fresh seafood, traditional crafts and hidden corners?! A mix of all or something very particular?!

Jot down a rough plan of what you want to do each day of your stay in Venice. Pick sights that are within close proximity to one another. Even if you are in peak shape, all the walking and spending long hours on your feet quickly add up. Try not to plan too much for any one day. Leave plenty of time for each sight – both to reach it without rushing and to be able to fully enjoy its atmosphere and artefacts. 

42. Yet Be Spontaneous in Order to Experience Venice Authentically

Venice is the best place in the world to be spontaneous. Every narrow curving street you take leads you to yet another worldwide famous sight or hidden gem.

Be adventurous! While your rough plan will guarantee that you will be exploring Venice in a purposeful manner, take every opportunity to adapt it if you come across something else that catches your eye. Visit every church you come across. Follow the locals to their favourite gelaterias and eateries. Stop to admire artisans at work and to purchase their handmade wares. Spend long moments at quiet squares (locally called campi ) where you can observe the authentic Venice. Go for long walks trying to spot as many typical for Venice architectural details like patera and finestrata . 

With its rich heritage and with hundreds of things to do and see, it’s practically impossible to know in advance what exactly you will fall in love with in Venice. You may be thinking that you want to visit Venice for all the art and then, once arrived, you may be drawn to the local crafts and compelled to discover as much as possible about them. Or you may be planning to visit Venice for all the gorgeous photos you can take and then, without even being religious, to become intrigued by the Venetian churches and to want to visit as many of them for their architecture, art, and history.

43. Put a Day Aside for the Islands in the Venetian Lagoon

While Venice is the undisputable star of the Venetian Lagoon, there are dozens of islands here that deserve a visit, too. For their history, for the local crafts, for their beauty, for their colourful houses, for their peace and quiet, for many reasons, really.

Murano, Burano, and Torcello are the three most famous islands in the Venetian Lagoon. Many visitors to Venice spend a day visiting all three. Murano is famous for its locally made glass. Burano – for its lace and houses painted in a riot of colours. Torcello is where the history of Venice started as it was the first island in the Venetian Lagoon where a settlement rose back in the 5th century AD.

Yet, there is also:

• Giudecca with its peaceful atmosphere and some very interesting buildings;
• Lido with its wonderful beaches;
• Chioggia which at one time was more powerful than Venice;
• Pellestrina where you can cycle along the murazzi – the long wall separating the Venetian Lagoon from the Adriatic Sea;
• Mazzorbo (connected to Burano via a wooden bridge) with the Venissa restaurant and vineyard;
• Sant’Erasmo with Venice’s fruit and vegetable gardens. 

And if you want something different, then you can head to the island of San Michele. It has served as Venice’s cemetery since the start of the 19th century. Alternatively, explore the island of San Servolo. This is where people with mental illnesses used to be sent to in the past. Nowadays, the former insane asylum on the island hosts a very thoughtfully curated museum.

It is only by visiting the different islands and by travelling between them that you come to appreciate the spectacular scenery of the Venetian Lagoon. It is quite amazing really how such an inhospitable environment has been elevated into one of the most beautiful and special places on earth.

You can visit the islands in the Venetian Lagoon by yourself by taking advantage of the very well-organised network of vaporetti . Or you can book a guided tour whisking you from island to island in one active day or half-day.

This full-day excursion , for example, will take you on a tour of Murano, Burano, and Torcello directly from Venice’s train station. This half-day experience includes a visit to a glass factory on Murano and a lace workshop on Burano.

44. Take a Day Trip to Italy’s Mainland

If you are spending more than three days in Venice, make sure that you put a day aside for a trip to Italy’s mainland. High-speed and fast regional trains connect Venice numerous times a day to such beautiful destinations as Padua , Vicenza , Verona , Lake Garda , Milan , Brescia , and Bologna . Not to mention the myriad of medieval walled towns dotted all around the Veneto – the Northern Italian region of which Venice is the capital.

Train travel is quick, inexpensive and very well-organised. You can reach Padua from Venice in less than half an hour and then spend a wonderful day discovering the frescoed Scrovegni Chapel, Italy’s second-oldest University, and the world’s oldest academic botanical garden. Or, in an hour and a half, you can reach Italy’s largest lake – Lago di Garda – which is a great destination for families with kids, couples, and solo travellers.

It’s so nice to be able to see more and do more in the span of the same Italian holiday. Visiting Venice gives you a chance to visit many other unique and beautiful Italian destinations, too. Take full advantage of that!

• Venice to Milan – A Cool Day Trip in Italy (With Travel Tips and Sights to See)
• Venice to Padua – The Best Day Trip in Italy (With Travel Tips and Sights to See)
• Venice to Verona – A Day Trip in Italy to Fall in Love With (With Travel Tips and Sights to See)
• Venice to Lake Garda, Italy – 3 Easy Ways to Travel
• 10 Best Cities in Veneto, Italy to Visit and What to See in Each

45. Book a Return Trip to Venice

No matter how long you spend in Venice, it’s never enough. There is just so much to do, see, and enjoy here. The city of water has a way to get under your skin, to make you really fall for it. 

So, don’t stress that you were not able to see it all and do it all while here. Instead, make sure that you book a return trip to Venice so that you can continue your exploration of this most unique and beautiful city in the world.

A Bonus Tip for Venice, Italy

Toilets! A totally essential topic for any visitor to Venice and Italy in general. Now, if you need to spend a penny, don’t fret! It’s all very nicely and logically organised in Venice as long as you know where to look. Here is how it works:

• Paid public toilets – dotted at crucial points with high footfall around the city. Here is a map for you to see where the paid public toilets are located in Venice. They are very clean and thoroughly sanitised throughout the day. Do keep euro coins on you, as you need to pay every time you use them. If you buy the Venezia Unica City Pass (see point 39 above), you can add a Public Toilet Service as an option to it. This works out slightly cheaper compared to paying for each separate visit.
• Toilets in Museums/Sights – museums and sights in Venice have well-equipped and clean toilets which you can make use of during your visit. Usually, you can’t just pop in from the street to use their facilities though. 
• Cafes/Eateries/Restaurants – as a paying customer you can access the toilet on the premises. At times, these can be tiny but make use of them, especially if you find the fee for the paid public toilets prohibitive. In any case, please, remember that the toilets in Venice’s cafes, eateries, and restaurants are only for paying customers.

In Conclusion

Venice is a dream destination for many. With its unique location in the heart of the Venetian Lagoon and with its many layers of history, the city of water has a lot to offer to the traveller seeking beautiful and memorable experiences.

Yet, Venice doesn’t reveal its secrets easily. For the many things you can do and enjoy here, often, you also need to dig deeper beneath the surface to find your way around Venice. As a car-free city with a maze of narrow curving streets, its own centuries-old traditions, and many, many quirks, Venice can be a challenge. Especially if you arrive here hoping to discover it all on the spot as you go.

To help you have the best experience in the city of water, in this blog post I share with you my 45 essential tips for Venice. They are particularly useful if this will be your first visit. From no-nonsense travel and accommodation tips to health and safety and time management tips, I’ve organised the information in logical chunks to help put you in Venice mood and mode.

I hope that you will find these tips for Venice helpful and that they will galvanise you to head to the city of water as soon as possible.

Enjoy your time in venice, italy, more helpful venice info for you.

Venice:   Major Landmarks , Hidden Gems , Best Tours , Venetian Place Names , Nearest Airports , Boats in Venice , Haunted Venice , Day Trips from Venice , Arco del Paradiso Venice Videos: Grand Canal , St. Mark’s Square at Carnival , St. Mark’s Square , View from Rialto Bridge , View from Accademia Bridge , Venetian gondolas , Historical Regatta , Squero di San Trovaso , Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo , Fondazione Querini Stampalia , Palazzo Grimani , Rialto Fish Market , Ca’ Macana , Festa della Madonna della Salute

More Helpful Italy Info for You

Best of Italy: Italian Piazzas , Italian Food , Italian Markets , Italian Coffee Culture Northern Italy: 18 Best Cities to Visit Lake Garda: Best Towns , Nearest Airports , Travel Options , Lake Garda with Kids Lake Como: Things to See , Nesso Veneto: Best Cities to Visit , Top 15 Places , 30 Adventures , 15 Most Colourful Places Friuli Venezia Giulia: Venzone , Most Beautiful Villages Emilia Romagna: Bologna , Ravenna , Comacchio , Most Beautiful Villages Marche: 6 Reasons to Visit , Gradara , Frasassi Caves , Temple of Valadier Verona: Things to Do in One Day , Day Trips from Verona Padua:   Things to Do in One Day ,  101 Facts About Padua ,  10 Reasons to Visit Padua ,  Day Trips from Padua Vicenza: Things to Do , 10 Must-See Museums , Day Trips from Vicenza

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Compass & Pine

The Ultimate Travel Guide

Venice, ah Venezia! A city suspended in time and water, where gondolas glide past Baroque buildings and serenade echoes off ancient canals.

Our Venice guides are your gondolier through the city of bridges, navigating you around the selfie sticks and into the authentic heart of Venetian life.

Dive headfirst into local bacaros, sip spritz al sunset, and get lost in a labyrinth of cobblestone streets and secret squares.

Come, explore the mesmerizing melancholy of a city sinking under the weight of its own beauty.

Venice isn’t just a city; it’s a living, breathing opera, and we’re here to ensure you get the best seats.

Central European Standard Time

Best Time to Go

To escape the bustling crowds, the best time to go to Venice is in the winter when there are fewer tourists.

Things to Know

Currency : Euro Language : Italian

How to Get Around

Outside of walking, water taxis and the vaporetto (water bus) are your best option.

Venice Travel Guide (2023)

Venice On A Budget: How to Visit Venice For Cheap

Venice Travel Guide: Your Passport to La Serenissima

Top things to do in venice.

Venice is a sensory buffet. Our list of top things to do ensures you savor every bite. Gondola rides? Check. The Piazza San Marco? You bet. But we’re also guiding you off the beaten track, to secret spots and local gems. You’re not just ticking boxes; you’re diving into the heart of Venice.

Visiting Libreria Acqua Alta, Venice’s Beautiful Bookstore

St. Mark’s Square, Venice: 10 Things To Do For an Unforgettable Experience

From Classic to Contemporary: The Top 10 Bridges of Venice

10 Romantic Things To Do In Venice

How to Climb St. Mark’s Campanile in Venice

10 Best Paintings at Gallerie dell’Accademia di Venezia

Guide to the Top 10 Museums and Art Galleries in Venice

The Complete Guide to Venice Carnival

15 Most Beautiful Venice Cathedrals and Churches

Top 10 Things to Do in Venice, Italy

Best restaurants in venice.

Venetian cuisine is a sumptuous serenade. Our guide to the best restaurants in Venice takes you to where the locals really eat – from family-run trattorias to hidden cicchetti bars. Savor fresh-from-the-lagoon seafood, the creamiest risottos, and the finest wines. We’re your menu to an authentic culinary journey.

The Best Restaurants in Murano and Burano, Italy

10 Best Restaurants Near St. Mark’s Square, Venice

Best Cicchetti in Venice: A Culinary Journey Through the City of Canals

Best Restaurants in Venice, Italy

Italian food guides.

Our Italian Food Guides are your passport to Italy’s culinary wonders. Navigate from Naples’ authentic pizza to Bologna’s tortellini havens and Sicily’s vibrant food fusion. Meet the people behind the dishes, savor local traditions, and unearth age-old recipes. This is more than a food tour, it’s a journey into the heart of la dolce vita. Get ready to feast with us. Buon appetito!

15 Must Try Venetian Foods & Drinks

Italian Coffee Guide: Taste, History, & More

What Are the 7 Types of Italian Pizza?

What is Prosciutto? Everything You Need to Know

Grappa: Everything You Need To Know

Aperitivo: The Italian Tradition of Pre-Dinner Drinks

Venice neighborhood series.

Venice isn’t just San Marco. Our neighborhood series delves into the city’s lesser-known districts. Unearth the artisan heart of Dorsoduro, Cannaregio’s local vibe, or Giudecca’s verdant charm. Each sestiere has its own character, waiting to be discovered. Dive in, and make Venice your own.

Dorsoduro, Venice: Top Attractions, Hotels, & Restaurants

Castello, Venice: Top Attractions, Hotels, & Restaurants

San Marco, Venice: From Piazza San Marco to the Outskirts

San Polo, Venice: Guide to an Enchanting Neighborhood

Exploring Santa Croce, Venice: History, Attractions, and Dining

Discovering Cannaregio, Venice: The Authentic Charm of the Jewish Ghetto

Venetian art & artists.

Venice, the city of water and light, has long been a muse for artists. Our guide plunges you into the rich tapestry of Venetian art, from the ethereal canvases of Canaletto to the expressive sculptures of Tintoretto. It’s not just about the masters, though. We also spotlight contemporary trailblazers, street art corners, and cutting-edge galleries. Discover the true colors of Venice and let the city’s creativity seep into your soul.

Venetian Palaces: 15 Breathtaking Palaces in Venice (Both Public and Private)

The 11 Best Movies Set in Venice, Italy

Venetian Renaissance Painters – Top 10 Venetian Artists

The Oldest Buildings in Venice

The history of venice.

Venice, rising from the marshes to a maritime powerhouse, is a testament to human will and ingenuity. Our guide threads you through the labyrinth of Venice’s past, where Doges ruled, merchants thrived, and cultures melded. Uncover how a collection of marshy islands became a beacon of the Renaissance. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill history lesson; it’s a time-traveling voyage into the heart of the Serenissima.

A Brief History of Venice: The Rise and Fall of the Venetian Republic

Where is Venice, Italy? Navigating the Floating City’s History, Culture, and Location

Travel tips for venice.

Traveling Venice like a local needs a little savvy. Our Venice travel tips will keep you ahead of the game. From navigating the vaporettos to respecting local customs, we’ve got you covered. Arm yourself with these pearls of wisdom and you’ll be exploring Venice with the confidence of a seasoned gondolier.

Venice At Night: Things to Do and Places to Explore

Venice Flooding: Why Is Venice Sinking?

What to Wear in Venice, Italy: Packing List for Each Month

Venice Alternatives Around the World

Venice Overtourism: How a Small City is Dealing With Mass Tourism

15 Amazing Boat Tours to Take in Venice

The Best Venice Tours to Take and Why

Venice Festivals, Events, and Traditions: Experiencing the Cultural Highlights

Capturing Venice: The Best Places to Take Photos in Venice

Venice with Kids: Family-Friendly Activities and Attractions

Hidden Gems in Venice: Unveiling Venice’s Best-Kept Secrets

Venice’s Rialto Market: A Comprehensive Guide to Mercato di Rialto

Exploring the venetian lagoon.

Navigate the Venetian Lagoon with us, beyond Venice’s famous canals. Discover Murano’s glass magic, Burano’s color spectacle, Torcello’s quiet charm, and Lido’s beachside vibe. Each island tells its own story in this aquatic tapestry. Hop on, it’s time to explore!

Visit Sant’Erasmo Island: The Garden of the Doge

Visit the Venice Islands: A Guide to Murano, Burano, Torcello, and More

Lido Island in Venice: What to Do and Where to Stay

Torcello Island in Venice: What To Do and See

Burano Island in Venice: What to Do and See on Lace Island

Murano Island in Venice: What to Do and See on Glass Island

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Best Books on Venice: Non-Fiction & Fiction

Dive into our curated list of the best books on Venice. Immerse yourself in the city’s enchanting history and culture. Discover your next read today!

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Best Souvenirs in Venice: Authentic Venetian Masks & More

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Venice Travel Tips

Best cheap hotels in Venice

Venice Accommodation Last Updated · Feb 1st, 2024 · Maddy [post_comments before=""] -->

Welcome to this guide which lists a selection of the best cheap hotels in Venice.

Venice is one of the most fascinating cities in Italy, but for the most part, finding affordable accommodation can be a challenge. Fortunately, there are many relatively cheap hotels that offer comfortable and affordable rooms .

In this guide, I’ll not only share with you some of the cheapest hotels in Venice to help you find the ideal accommodation for your trip, but also save you money.

From central locations in the heart of the city to cosy rooms on quieter corners in lesser touristic districts, there is something to suit all tastes and needs .

Thanks to this selection of affordable hotels in Venice, you should be able start to make the most of the beauty and charm of the city without breaking the bank .

What's in this guide?

Cheap hotels in Venice

Believe it or not, when it comes to staying in budget hotels in Venice, what most travellers fear is ending up in dirty old crumbling properties and experience bad customer service or, to be without basic essentials that are not provided on arrival.

That is why, in this particular accommodation guide, I will recommend a list of cheap hotels in Venice other travellers loved and I believe you will too!

But let’s start by looking at why you may want to stay in a budget hotel in Venice over some of the most expensive options that are widely available in the city.

Is it worth staying in a cheap hotel in Venice?

There are a couple of reasons why it’s worth considering a cheap stay in Venice.

Whereas some might be obvious, there are others in disguise and that will make you seriously think about booking an affordable hotel. Let’s take a look at them!

• 1. To stay on a budget . If you want to save money on accommodation in Venice, then you have no choice but to book a cheap hotel like the ones I mention below or, alternatively, a hostel. Here’s a list of the best hostels in Venice for your reference. To keep the cost down, be ready to compromise on some things like having your own private bathroom or a spacious room.
• 2. To spend money on experiences and activities instead . Instead of spending most of your travel budget on pricey hotels, why not book a cheap room and instead spend money on food, tours, experiences and shopping?
• 3. Cheap doesn’t mean bad . You’ll be surprised when I tell you that some budget hotels in Venice have fantastic reviews, returning guests and greater customer service than some 4 or 5 star hotels. Now you can travel knowing that saving money + having a fabulous stay in Venice is a possibility.

Got travel insurance for Venice?

Let’s now dive into this selection of cheap hotels in Venice so you can hopefully find the one that ticks all of your boxes! For each hotel I mention 3 features that make it a good place to stay in Venice and attractions at your doorstep.

Use the Venice budget accommodation map I have created which you can save to your Google Maps account and use it to see where each hotel is located in Venice.

Alla Corte Rossa

Hotel Features:

• Breakfast included
• Children up to 3 years old stay for free
• Free access to the Venice Casinò

The B&B Alla Corte Rossa is only 2 minutes walk from Campo Santa Margherita, based in the Dorsoduro district, far from the tourist crowds this hotel overlooks a Venetian tranquil canal called Rio Briati and the whole area is packed with bacari and authentic Venetian restaurants . The property is only 10 minutes from the Accademia Bridge and Galleries and the Rialto Bridge, making it the ideal starting point to visit Venice, as well as a great place to relax in the evening.

For an affordable price per night, you can stay in one of the rooms of Alla Corte Rossa that are decorated with antique Venetian style furniture and equipped with every comfort. It’s the ideal B&B for a family since children up to 3 stay for free. You can choose among the double or triple superior room with canal view, the double room for single use (ideal for solo travellers), standard double room and economy double room.

Check Price on Booking.com

Hotel dalla Mora

• Option to add extra beds
• 24 hours reception

The 1 star Hotel dalla Mora is located in the Santa Croce neighbourhood, a few minutes away from Santa Lucia railway station and the bus station in Piazzale Roma. The church of San Nicola da Tolentino is only 3 minutes walk away and overlooks the Rio del Malcanton canal. The hotel offers 3 types of double rooms : with a private bathroom, with sink and shower in the room and toilet shared on the same floor and with sink only, shower and toilet are shared. It’s also available as a single room with a private bathroom. The rooms don’t have TVs but they all have a terrace from where you enjoy romantic views of the canal . This hotel is perfect if you’re looking to stay on a budget in Venice and to explore its most authentic side.

Centauro Hotel

• 6 minutes away from St. Mark’s Square

The 3 star Centauro Hotel is based in Campo Manin , only 6 minutes walk away from the very heart of the city: St. Mark’s Square. It’s a great place to stay in Venice for first timers on a budget that want to be close to the main attractions like Rialto, Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica. There is a wide selection of rooms from classic double rooms to superior double with canal view , triple and quadruple rooms to accommodate families. The Centauro Hotel is set on a 16th century building and decorated in Venetian style. Guests can enjoy a good buffet breakfast in the morning (which is included in the room price!) in a large room with a terrace that offers charming views over the city. Make sure to visit the Scala Contarini del Bovolo a few steps away from the property!

Alloggi Arlecchino

• Free airport shuttle
• Near Piazzale Roma
• Multilingual staff

The guest house Alloggi Arlecchino is located in a strategic position, only a few minutes away from Piazzale Roma . Looking for an affordable room in Venice and need to catch an early bus or taxi to the airport? Look no further! This property is exactly what you need if you have an early or late flight and provides a free shuttle service to Marco Polo airport. Alloggi Arlecchino is close to the peaceful Papadopoli Gardens , one of the few parks in Venice historic centre, and near the church of Santa Maria dei Frari and Scuola Grande di San Rocco. Every room h as a private bathroom with free toiletries, bidet and hairdryer. Additionally, the room has a TV , wardrobe, safe deposit box and air-conditioning and heating.

Hotel San Moisè

• Free tickets to Venice Casinò
• Close to St. Mark’s Square

The Hotel San Moisè is another cheap hotel to stay in Venice if you book your stay in the low season. It’s a 3 star hotel located in the San Marco neighbourhood, only a couple of minutes away from St. Mark’s Square. It’s a great affordable hotel considering the excellent location, in one of the most popular areas of the city. It also happens to be a good starting point to explore more islands in the lagoon of Venice, since you’ll be close to several water bus stops in the St. Mark’s Basin. The hotel features a lovely internal courtyard and garden which dates back to the 16th century. The rooms decorated in Venetian style are quite spacious and some of them have exposed beams that give extra character to the space. The range of rooms goes from single rooms to family rooms that can host up to 4 people. You have the option to book canal view rooms as well as rooms with balconies overlooking the Rio de San Moisè. If you stay here, I recommend you get the cheapest gondola ride in Venice from the gondola pier Dogana. This gondola goes to Punta della Dogana, in the Cannaregio neighbourhood, not far from the beautiful Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute.

Locanda Ca’ Zose

• Near vaporetto stop La Salute
• Fully accessorised rooms
• Next to Peggy Guggenheim Collection

The Locanda Ca’ Zose is based in a 17th century building and overlooks the Rio della Fornace . The stylish guest house is just next to one of the most important art museums in Venice , the Peggy Guggenheim Collection and not far from Punta della Dogana and Santa Maria della Salute church. Every room comes with a range of amenities that will make your stay very pleasant: air conditioning, shower or bath, mini-bar fridge, free Wi-Fi and satellite TV . There are 3 different types of rooms: standard, superior and suites and some of them can welcome up to 4 people. Only the suites overlook a rio or a Venetian calle.

Casa Accademia

• Near Gallerie dell’Accademia
• Coworking space and conference room
• Rooftop terrace

Casa Accademia is a budget guest house located in the heart of Venice, not far from the Gallerie dell’Accademia museum and Santa Maria della Salute church. From the property, you can truly immerse yourself in the Venetian life . It’s also the perfect place to stay to visit some of the top attractions of the city like Gallerie dell’Accademia, Peggy Guggenheim Collection and get to St. Mark’s Square in less than 20 minutes . There are 6 types of rooms : single, superior single, double or with 2 single beds, matrimonial, matrimonial superior and large family. Casa Accademia can please the needs of travellers visiting Venice with a limited budget for accommodation , whether you’re a solo traveller and digital nomad, a couple or small group of friends or family. Some extras services or comforts you can expect to find at Casa Accademia are: a terrace with great views of Santa Maria della Salute church, a bright coworking space and a conference room.

Leone Hotel

This 3 star hotel is 6 minutes away from Santa Lucia railway station, facing the Baroque style palace Venier-Manfrin and overlooking the Cannaregio canal . It’s only a couple of metres away from the vaporetto stop Guglie where the lines 3, 4.1 and 5.1 stop. The hotel is the perfect base to start exploring Venice off-the-beaten-path as in a matter of minutes you get to the Jewish Ghetto and the Fondamenta dei Ormesini . Along this street, you can find many bacari and small restaurants where you can taste some of the best food in the city. The rooms can host up to 3 people and you can choose among double standard, double superior and triple room . All rooms have a private bathroom, flat screen TV, air conditioning and free Wi-Fi. Bear in mind that only the superior room offers a canal view.

Foresteria Sociale Venice S.Marco

The Foresteria Sociale S. Marco is the closest hostel to St. Mark’s Square and that overlooks a canal , the Rio della Veste. The hostel is only a few minutes away from the main attractions of the city like Doge’s Palace, St. Mark’s Basilica and La Fenice theatre. What makes this property unique is that it is based in a wing of a Franciscan Sisters convent that has been converted into a hostel and guest house. You can choose to stay in dormitories or private rooms . The private rooms have a bathroom with a hair dryer, fridge and lockers. You can use the communal areas to meet other travellers and share travel experiences during your stay. The hostel provides a fully equipped kitchen , dining and seating area. There’s one ensuite mixed dormitory that can host up to 20 people, then another ensuite mixed dormitory that can host up to 6 people and a female dormitory for up to 4 people.

Check Price on HostelWorld.com

Cheap Hotels in Venice FAQs

Here are some questions people ask when it comes to booking hotels in Venice.

Can you stay in Venice cheaply?

Yes, you can. Even if Venice is expensive, especially accommodation, it’s possible to find affordable hotels . The best way to not overspend is to travel and book accommodation in the low season . This means from November to March, excluding winter events like Christmas and Carnival that attract a lot of visitors to the city. The other trick is to book months in advance so you have more choice and prices for a room tend to be cheaper. Finally, to save money you can book your stay in one of the best and cheapest hotels of the city I mention above.

What area in Venice is best to stay?

The best areas to stay in Venice for first time visitors are the neighbourhoods of San Marco and San Polo . For returning visitors or to avoid the tourist crowds, Dorsoduro and Cannaregio are the best districts where to book your stay. For a more local vibe , I suggest staying in the district of Castello .

What area in Venice is best to stay for families?

The best areas to stay in Venice for families are the districts of Cannaregio and Santa Croce . To reach these neighbourhoods there are not many bridges to cross compared to the other areas of the city, and in some cases no bridges at all. Considering that many families travel with a pram or stroller it’s quite important to choose a hotel that is easy to reach and that doesn’t require you to lift bulky and heavy luggage . Here’s a list of some of the best family hotels in Venice to suit every budget.

How to get around Venice cheaply?

Best cheap hotels in venice.

As you can see, finding cheap hotels in Venice is possible as long as you’re not travelling during the most popular periods of the year!

Make sure to book one of these hotels a couple of months in advance so you can have the chance to find good deals and save a lot of money.

Even if you’ll be staying in Venice for various days, I invite you to check out my one day in Venice itinerary to get some inspiration on all that you can do in just one day.

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I love to share tips, advice and resources to help visitors explore Venice and the Veneto region like a local. Learn more about me here.

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Home » Europe » Italy » Venice

Backpacking Venice Travel Guide (2024)

Situated in the shallow Venetian Lagoon of northeastern Italy, Venice is made up of small islands—118 to be exact. Separated by canals but linked by over 400 bridges, The Floating City of the Adriatic Sea is truly a marvel. Its uniqueness makes it one of kind.

Refined and elegant, Venice has been significant and influential in the world of art, architecture, and literature. Some regard La Serenissima as a living museum.

Venice is an idyllic retreat, with its gorgeous cityscape and rich cultural heritage, but Venice prices should not be romanticized.

The following is a guide to backpacking Venice to see the most but pay the least.

How Much Does Backpacking Venice Cost?

Backpacker accommodation in venice, top things to do in venice, backpacking venice 3-day itinerary, backpacking venice travel tips and city guide.

Venice has gained a reputation for being expensive, so you were savvy to come to this page – and we love that for you! Yes, there is a way to backpack Venice on a budget.

Luckily, there are several low-cost airlines that fly to Treviso Airport, so the cost of your flight should not be outrageous. Long distance trains and buses are always a money saving option in Europe as well.

Transportation is only necessary to get to-and-from the airport, as Venice is a pedestrian city. Occasionally, you will need to use a water taxi. Purchase a travel card to save a ton of cash. These allow for unlimited travel on  vaporetti  and bus rides to the airport.

Venetian tapas are a huge part of local culture. Smaller snack foods at the bacari make dining out more affordable.

Fresh food markets and supermarkets are available to cook at home. Surprisingly, wine is reasonably priced, but coffee may cost you. Take note of the fees charged to sit at a cafe. Ask for tap water at restaurants instead of paying the hefty price for bottles.

Visiting Venice during off-peak seasons will save you a fortune on accommodation; in summer prices can double. Often, staying on the mainland is cheaper for a room.

A budget of €50-€70 ($60-80 USD) is recommended for backpacking Venice. For more Venice budgeting tips check out our comprehensive guide to keeping costs low here !

Need help deciding between Florence or Venice ? Check out our helpful guide.

Average Costs of a Trip to Venice

The following is a breakdown of items to consider for your Venice daily budget:

Hostel —  Dorm Bed:  €20 (off-peak season)

Transportation:  Free (walk)

Breakfast:   €3

Dinner:  €11

Wine Glass :   €3

St. Mark’s Basilica Line Skip Ticket:  €3

Rialto Bridge:  Free

Free Walking Tour:  €5-10 tip

Palazzo Ducale:  €20 (Student Discounts Available)

Venice Budget Backpacking Tips

Free Walking Tours:  Given Venice’s high rates, a free walking tour is just the thing you need to become acquainted with the lovely city. Tours are often led by Venetians themselves, who know all of the nooks & crannies in the network of cobbled streets and alleys. Feel free to ask questions and familiarize yourself with your surroundings to make backpacking Venice a breeze!

Ticket Purchases:  San Marco Basilica is an honest-to-God treasure. Unfortunately, I am not the only one that thinks this, and a multitude of people assemble to enter the cathedral each day. Purchase privileged access tickets online for a mere €3.00 per person. Skip-the-line to save 45-minutes in your day, at least, to do whatever your heart desires.

ACTV Tourist Travel Cards will save you a boatload—wink, wink—on the ferry and vaporetti expenses.

Skip the Gondola:  The quintessential Venice experience is a Gondola ride, but it is also one of the most overpriced activities. Do as the locals do and hop on the traghetto  or vaporetto . It may not be nearly as romantic as the gondola, but I promise you that your backpack budget will not mind!

Stand to Eat:  Coperto is a fee charged for sitting at cafes and restaurants, so eat food on the go! At any rate, the twists & turns of the Venetian alleyways are fun to explore and get lost in. Beware that food in the major tourist areas are heavily taxed.  Pack a travel water bottle and save money every day!

Free Art:  Art galleries and showrooms are open to browse at no cost. Certain museums are gratis on the first Sunday of the month. Window shopping does not cost a dime. In addition, a majority of the most elegant architecture in Venice is free to look.

Why You Should Travel to Venice with a Water Bottle

Plastic washes up on even the most pristine beaches… so do your part and keep the Big Blue beautiful

You aren’t going to save the world overnight, but you might as well be part of the solution and not the problem. When you travel to some of the world’s most remote places, you come to realise the full extent of the plastic problem. And I hope you become more inspired to continue being a responsible traveller .

Plus, now you won’t be buying overpriced bottles of water from the supermarkets either! Travel with a filtered water bottle instead and never waste a cent nor a turtle’s life again.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

Venice is one of the world’s most visited cities and tourism is vital to its survival. While there is no shortage of places to sleep in the City of Canals, staying on a budget is the real trick of the trade.

This ancient city has a lot of history and hidden places that are worth discovering. So, the location where you stay is a thing to bear in mind, being on the outskirts is not the same as being close to Venice’s main sights and attractions breathing and feeling the day-to-day life of this unique city.

Check out our  full list of backpacker hostels in Venice  for a compilation of the best accommodations for budget travellers.

The Best Places to Stay in Venice

Wondering  which is the best part of Venice to stay in?  Well, let me give you a few suggestions. Do you want more information? Check out our insider guide for the best neighborhoods to stay in Venice.

San Marco is one of the most famous districts in Venice. The heart and soul of the city, San Marco is home to many of the most important landmarks and locations in Venice. From St. Mark’s Square to the Rialto Bridge, this district is packed with top tourist and sightseeing attractions.

Located in the north of Venice is Cannaregio. The second largest district in the city, Cannaregio is a down-to-earth district that houses a wealth of historic sights and interesting landmarks. Cannaregio is one of the best places to stay in Venice for those on a budget.

Dorsoduro is a neighbourhood defined by art. It’s where you’ll find walls adorned with street art and some of the most famous and unique art galleries in the city.

Castello is the largest of Venice’s six sestieri. It stretches from the town centre and the Rialto Bridge to the Arsenale naval base and the Giardini Gardens. Packed with lush landscapes and expansive parks, Castello is one of the most relaxing and picturesque neighbourhoods in Venice.

San Polo has the distinction of being one of the oldest, liveliest and most heavily touristed neighbourhoods in the city. Located in central Venice, this district is well connected to San Marco and the city’s top tourist attractions, making it one of the best places to stay in Venice for families.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

There’s a lot to do in Venice ! Here are my top 10 recommendations:

1. Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale)

Doge’s Palace is an impressive masterpiece of Gothic Architecture. This grand mansion once housed the Doge’s apartments (ruler of Venice), the city’s courtrooms, and a jail. Over the fall of the Venetian Republic, the Palazzo Ducale was occupied by administrative offices and cultural institutions.

Today, you can discover the palace for an admission of €20 that is also valid for the Museo Correr, Museo Archeologico Nazionale, and Monumental Rooms of the Biblioteca Nazionale Marciana Doge’s Palace Secret Itinerary tour must be purchased in advance to discover fascinating hidden rooms.

2. Saint Mark’s Basilica (Basilica di San Marco)

Admire the artistic heritage of Saint Mark’s Basilica with its splendid interior of glimmering mosaics. Basilica di San Marco is renowned worldwide for its gorgeous domed sculpture and famous symbol of gilded bronze horses.

The main body of the church is free to visit, but there are areas where a fee is charged. Purchase skip-the-queue tickets online, for just a few euro, to save you hours out of your day.

Clothing must be appropriate for a place of worship and photography is strictly forbidden.

3. Grand Canal

Lined with more than 170 buildings on its banks, the Grand Canal is Venice’s largest Canal. An S-shape that snakes its way through the central districts of Venice, the channel showcases stunning historical architecture and palazzi along its route.

The Grand Canal is best enjoyed while gliding down the waters and under the bridges by traghetto or vaporetto .

4. Rialto Bridge (Ponte di Rialto)

The oldest of the four bridges that span the Grand Canal, Rialto Bridge connects the districts of San Polo and San Marco. First construction of the Ponte di Rialto dates back to the 12th century.

Today, two inclined ramps meet at a central portico that make up the composition of the stone bridge. An architectural icon of Venice, the sight  of the bridge is arguably more beautiful than the views from the structure itself. Be sure to enjoy both while wandering the Floating City.

5. Saint Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco)

Saint Mark’s Square or more simply, la Piazza (the Square), is the principal public square of Venice. An extension of the Square, the Piazzetta, in combination with Saint Mark’s, form the social, religious, and political center of the city. Piazza San Marco is dominated by Saint Mark’s Basilica, Torre dell’Orologio (the Clock Tower), Museo Correr , and the Campanile (bell tower)—the only free-standing building inside the square.

Elegant and refined, Saint Mark’s Square is best enjoyed in the wee hours of the morning before any tourists arrive. This is also the best time for photo ops.

6. Bell Tower of Saint Mark (Campanile di San Marco)

Currently, the Bell Tower that stands in Saint Mark’s Square dates back to 1912; an exact replica of the tower that collapsed before it.

World famous, the Bell Tower has inspired renditions in places like The Venetian of Las Vegas and Epcot at Walt Disney World. One of the most recognizable symbols of Venice, Campanile di San Marco also offers bird’s eye views of the city and lagoon for €8.

7. Jewish Ghetto of Venice (Ghetto Ebraico di Venezia)

Under the government of the Venetian Republic, the Jewish community of Venice was confined to the Jewish Ghetto . This segregated area of the city is the oldest Jewish Ghetto in the world, and also where the English word “ghetto” is derived.

In 1797, when the Venetian Republic was dissolved, that too marked the end of the ghetto’s separation form the rest of the city.

Today, the Ghetto is still a center of Jewish life, located in the area of Cannaregio. Visit the square of campo del Ghetto Nuovo and take a guided tour of Museo Ebraico  for a sense of the hardships of former life here.

8. Basilica di Santa Maria Della Salute

Built by Venetians as a salute to the Virgin Mary for saving them from the plague, Basilica di Santa Maria Della Salute , is aptly named. Commonly, the basilica is known as the Salute.

Construction of the church began in 1631, fashioned in the baroque style. The dome of the Salute is picturesque, and proved to be an important addition to Venice’s skyline by inspiring many artists. The internal design of the church, in terms of art and decoration, is quite remarkable and admission to get inside is free.

9. Bridge of Sighs

The Bridge of Sighs , a fully enclosed bridge made of white limestone with barred windows, connects the New Prison to the interrogation rooms in the Doge’s Palace.

Fittingly, the name Bridge of Sighs came from the sigh convicts gave while looking at the view out the window before their imprisonment. In reality, the bridge was built after those hardened criminals awaited their executions. Nonetheless, the ornate beauty of this structure makes it worth the visit.

*Note: Take the tour of Doge’s Palace for a chance to walk the Bridge of Sighs and stare out the windows.

10. Teatro La Fenice (The Phoenix)

Recently restored, Teatro La Fenice is Venice’s opulent opera house. Despite losing the theater to not one or two, but three fires, the opera house was rebuilt and re-opened in 2004.

The name is said to reflect the ability of the opera company to “rise from the ashes”. A tour of the inside will likely inspire awe with its grandeur and magnificence. Full price tours cost €11.

You only need to spend a few days in Venice to get your fill. With 3 days, you will have more than enough time to see the city’s main attractions and landmarks. Venice is a pedestrian only city, so time is hardly wasted on transportation.

The following is a breakdown of each day with a focus on maximizing the number of sights you can see. Adjust the itinerary to meet your personal Venice trip goals.

Day 1 in Venice

Begin day 1 in Venice with an early morning at Saint Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco) . Overall, you will have a better outlook on Venezia if you beat the crowds to its most famous landmarks!

Snap some photos of the square and Torre dell’Orologio (Clock Tower) before strolling over to Campanile di San Marco (Bell Tower) . Ride to the top of the tower for panoramic views of Venice.

Make it back down to Basilica di San Marco before opening hours. If you have not pre-purchased a ticket to skip the line, then you will have to wait for quite some time to enter, depending on the season. Pay the separate admission fees for the museum and high alter, and gawk at the splendor of the basilica.

Pop-in next door to Doge’s Palace (Pallazo Ducale) . The Secret Itineraries Tour must be pre-booked, but it is recommended to witness the hidden gems of the palace for yourself.

Watch the impressive gondolas as they float down the Grand Canal , with a viewpoint from the  Rialto Bridge (Ponte di Rialto) . This fancy bridge is a significant attraction in Venice that may best be enjoyed from the banks of the canal. If time allows, wander the stalls of the Rialto Market on the San Polo side of the connector.

An early evening calls for cicchetti at bacari , while sipping Spritz and Prosecco, for Venice’s popular happy hour.

Day 2 in Venice

Day 2 in Venice is a chance to wander the streets and fall in love with La Serenissima . Peek into shops that are full of hand-crafted items like Venetian masks and gondolier hats. Find some gelato or enjoy a sparkling wine while relaxing along the waterside. Browse the backstreets for boutiques full of gowns.

Consider riding the vaporetto to  San Giorgio Maggiore island, just east of Giudecca , to see the  Church of San Giorgio Maggiore and go up the bell tower.

Perhaps, you may just enjoy the view of that church from Venice proper, as it is just across the water from Basilica di   Santa Maria della Salute and the Punta della Dogana art museum.

Make way to the Jewish Ghetto and consider some pit-stops along your route. Worth noting, the  Gallerie dell’Accademia is a museum of pre-19th century art in Venice, where you can also cross the Grand Canal on the  Ponte dell’Accademia . In addition, Ca’d’Oro (golden house), the Peggy Guggenheim Collection modern art museum, and Ca’ Rezzonico are all along the way.

In another area, you have access to Teatro La Fenice and a vantage point for the Bridge of Sighs .

Finish Day 2 in Venice with drinks at the bars in Campo S Margherita or Erbaria .

Day 3 in Venice

For day 3 in Venice, utilize the waterways and get off the main island!

Learn a little history in sleepy Torcello . It is said that the people who founded Venice originate from Torcello. There are glass blowing demonstrations as well as a museum on the island of Murano .

Burano island has a lace museum and cute houses that sport brightly colored hues.

The outlying neighborhoods of Venice and the surrounding islands tend to offer up better prices along with interesting attractions. Steer clear of Venice proper if you are hoping to keep money in your wallet.

Venice off the Beaten Path (More Awesome Things to do in Venice)

Conversely, this is Venice off the beaten canal—err—you know what I mean.

If you happen to have time while backpacking Venice to venture away from Venice proper, here are a few options:

Burano  —  Colorful and brightly painted houses dot this fishing island in the northern lagoon. The Museo del Merletto has exhibits on the development of lace-making in the area. Also, worth visiting is the leaning 17th century bell tower. Vivid Burano is not to be missed.

Murano  —  Murano is renowned for its long tradition of glass-making and unique glass art. The island features demonstrations, studios, and art pieces for sale. Unearth the history of glass at Museo del Vetro . Another island attraction is the Church of Santa Maria e San Donato that is said to house the bones of a slain dragon.

Lido di Venezia  —  The Lido is home to the Venice Film Festival . A charming seaside strip, the island was once known for its brothels. Half of the Adriatic side of Lido is made-up of sandy beaches. Have a walk down the Gran Viale , the main street on the 11 km long sandbar.

San Giorgio Maggiore   —  Directly across from Venice, San Giorgio Maggiore island is best known for the pearly white Church of San Giorgio Maggiore , designed by Palladio. The view from the top of the bell tower is said to be even greater than the one in Saint Mark’s Square.

Deciding between Rome and Venice can be challenging enough, so we’ve helped you out with this guide.

The following is a breakdown of the basics; everything you need to know before your Venice trip. Whether you are a first-time backpacker or experienced in the art of travel, it is always nice to have a reference of useful information.

Best Time of Year to Visit Venice

Backpacking Venice is ideal when sightseers desert the city from September to November. As is common with much of Europe, Venice undergoes cool winters and very warm summers.

It is estimated that over 20 million tourist visit Venice annually, so summertime—peak season—can be characterized by inflated rates, high temperatures, overwhelming crowds, pungent canals, and a fair share of bugs.

While it is far more enticing to tour The Queen of the Adriatic in the summer than not at all, we suggest visiting at another time if you can.

Spring is lovely as the city begins to defrost and temperatures rise, but note that attractions may still close early for winter hours. Fall in Venice is thought to be the most magical time of year. Do not forget to dress appropriately for a range of temperatures.

Winter on the canals is quite desolate, so you may feel as if you have the city to yourself. Reap the benefits of discounted rates and open alleys, but be sure to dress warm. Carnival commences in February, a huge attraction for Venice that brings in many tourists and great fun!

Acqua alta (high water) is the act of lagoon water levels rising above street levels and flooding them. This tends to happen during colder months with the likelihood of floods happening in December.

Acqua alta coincides with high tide and usually lasts a few hours. Pack waterproof shoes if visiting Venice in the winter, and pick-up dry route maps at tourist offices.

Getting in and out of Venice

Venice Marco Polo Airport ( VCE ): is the closest commercial airport serving Venice. Located 8 km (4.9 mi) north of the city on the mainland.

Piazzale Roma (car parks and bus station):  Vaporetti depart from Piazzale Roma docks to city destinations.

• ATVO buses (private) depart from the airport every 30 minutes. Express non-stop service to Piazzale Roma. €8 one-way
• ACTV buses (public transportation) run between the airport and Piazzale Roma every 15 minutes. €8 one-way/ €15 round-trip (bus line 5)
• Alilaguna (water bus) runs trips to Venice, Lido, and Murano. €15 one-way/ €27 round-trip
• Water taxis (private boat) will take you anywhere in Venice for €100-€150.
• Taxis from the airport to Piazzale Roma will take about 15 minutes for €50.
• Trains (via bus) are reached at the Mestre Train Station via bus from the airport for €3. Take the train to Santa Lucia Train Station  (Venice) for €1.

Treviso Airport is a relatively small airport that is becoming increasingly busy due to its popularity among discount airlines. On the mainland, this airport is about 31 km (19 mi) from Venice.

• ATVO buses (private) depart from the airport to Piazzale Roma. €12 one-way/ €22 round-trip
• Barzi Bus Service  offers a €22 round-trip ticket price to Venice, but unfortunately terminates at the less convenient Tronchetto parking island .
• ACTT  (bus #6) to Treviso railway station cost €2,50. From there you can take the train to Venezia Santa Lucia for €3,35.

Other means of transport include car , train ,  boat, and bus . Note that it is very expensive to park your car at Piazzale Roma or Tronchetto. It may be wise to park further away and use public transportation into Venice proper. 

How to get around Venice

Built on an archipelago (island chain), Venice is formed by 177 canals in a shallow lagoon. Therefore, these canals serve the function of roads in the absence of cars, making Venice the world’s only pedestrian city—pretty neat!

All transport involves boats or walking. Cycling in Venice itself is not permitted.

The larger islands of Lido and Pellestrina are the exception for bicycles and cars.

Vaporetti (water buses) are a network of public ferries that serve routes along the Grand Canal and between the city’s islands. One-way tickets cost €7.50

ACTV Tourist Travel Cards allow for unlimited travel on vaporetti and Lido buses beginning within a set period. This will save you a lot of money if you intend to use the vaporetto for more than three trips.

• 24 hours  €20
• 36 hours  €25
• 48 hours  €30
• 72 hours  €40
• One week  €60

There are other inclusive travel options like the Venice City Pass to be considered.

Venice People Mover (monorail) is a wheelchair-accessible, cable-operated public transit system that connects Tronchetto island with Piazzale Roma.

Gondola , a classical Venetian boat, is mostly used for scenic purposes rather than transportation. These can be quite expensive to ride.

Traghetto is a gondola service that locals use to cross the Grand Canal and is far cheaper than hiring a private gondola.

Walking in Venice is the simplest means to get from point A to point B. However, it is easy to get lost in a maze of alleys even for those savvy navigators. Allot extra time if you need to be somewhere on a set schedule.

Long Distance Trains from Venice

Trains are a convenient way to reach any city in Europe, and Venice is no exception.

Venezia Santa Lucia is on the west side of Venice.  Venezia Mestre is on the mainland between the boroughs of Mestre and Marghera.

Venice is well-connected with the domestic train network, including trains to Florence (1h53), Milan (2h13), Rome (3h33), and Naples (4h50).

Overnight trains: run from Munich, Paris, and Vienna.

International day trains: run to Zurich, Innsbruck, Munich, and Vienna.

Long-distance night trains: run from Moscow, Kiev, Budapest, and Zagreb.

Italy has an extensive rail network, and generally point-to-point tickets are the best way to go here, but if you plan to use the train to cover a lot of territories, and don’t want to reserve specific dates, you can get around Europe with a  Eurail Pass , or an  Interrail pass  if you’re an EU/UK resident.

If you want the flexibility of a Eurail pass, and/or you are including other European countries while backpacking Italy, check out the Eurail/InterRail pass options. Ana wrote an in-depth  article on train travel in Europe , and when you should use the pass.

Safety in Venice

Italy in general is a very safe country to travel to . Venezia is considered one of the safest cities in Europe and violent crime is very rare.

In the event of an emergency dial 112 to contact Carabinieri (domestic policing duties) or 113 to contact the police.

The most prevalent crime against tourists, in most urban areas, is pickpocketing. Keep your valuables close and be aware of your surroundings. Areas such as Basilica di San Marco can get very crowded.

Swimming in the waterways is strictly forbidden. Water in the canals maybe mixed with sewage— gross ! Swimmers that are caught are heavily fined and can be banned from the town. Beware of acqua alta which results in heavy flooding on walkways.

Street vendors may try to sell you counterfeit designer bags or belts. Buyers and sellers alike are subject to heavy fines when it comes to this knock-off couture.

Pick yourself up a  backpacker security belt  to keep your cash safe on the road, and check out  Backpacker Safety 101  for tips and tricks to stay safe while backpacking Venice.

Travel Insurance for Venice

Traveling without insurance would be risky so do consider getting good backpacker insurance sorted before you head off on an adventure.

I have been using World Nomads for some time now and made a few claims over the years. They’re easy to use, professional and relatively affordable. They may also let you buy or extend a policy once you’ve started your trip and are already abroad which is super handy.

If there’s one insurance company I trust, it’s World Nomads.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Venice Accommodation Travel Hacks

Keep costs down by booking your  hostel room well in advance and during off-peak seasons.

Airbnbs  are great if you are traveling with several friends to cut costs.

As always, if you are on a tight budget then utilize the  Couchsurfing community .

Caravan parks  may not be on Venice proper, but are definitely a money saving option on the mainland or Lido—for those of you touring Italy in a camper van.

Networking  can go a long way as well. Maybe you met an Italian friend, who has a friend with a place to crash in Venezia.

Eating and Drinking in Venice

Venice is not exactly known for a cuisine of its own, but it is characterized by the seafood-rich lagoon it sits upon. One local trademark is cuttlefish and its ink, served in various manners.  Baccalà , a codfish spread over crunchy bread;  sarde in saor , sweet and sour sardines; and risi e bisi , rice and green peas, are great eats in Venice with influences from elsewhere in Italy.

Bacari –  Venetian bars that serve ombra (a glass of wine) and cicchetti (Venetian tapas) sourced from local ingredients – is the best way to experience the “Happy Hour” culture that is popular here.

Enjoy a hearty, quality meal in a family-run Trattoria , a casual Italian eatery with low prices, to stay on a backpacker budget while learning about local culture from your server. Similarly, an osteria  also serves simple food at reasonable prices.

Avoid eating near any major sights in Venezia, so as to dodge the insanely high coperto , a fee for sitting at a cafe or restaurant. Save money by standing!

Ultimately, the easiest way to eat in Venice on a budget is to visit local produce and fish markets. Walk around eating frittura mista , fried seafood mix, to eat like a local. Contrary to popular belief, supermarkets are available on the islands.

For a full list and description of popular Italian dishes, checkout our Backpacking Italy Travel Guide .

Popular drinks include Spritz (Campari or Aperol mixed with Prosecco and seltzer), Veneto grappa , and Bellinis (white peach juice mixed with Prosecco) that were invented in Venice.

Oh, and you would be silly to visit Venice and not indulge in gelato and tiramisu , just saying…

Wine in Venice

Romantic La Serenissima is best when paired with wine.

The region of Veneto has an ancient wine tradition and it is one of Italy’s most important areas in wine production. Producing more whites than reds, this region is home to Prosecco and Soave wines.

Enoteche (wine bars) and osterie tend to buy out the region’s small-production wineries, so do not feel shy about asking for a suggestion within their hundreds of labels.

Local wines and Prosecco only cost around €1- €3 per glass. In fact, wine gets its name ombra , meaning shade, for the act of hiding in the shade with a drink during lunch.

Nightlife in Venice

Happy Hour is the way to drink in Venice, as the late night party scene is—not actually — all the rage. Don’t discount it, though. Prosecco goes down surprisingly easy and at little cost during happy hour.

Primarily, Campo Santa Margherita in the Dorsoduro district is where you can find good bars. Give thanks to the nearby University of Venice and Ca’ Foscari University for the lively student population.  Erbaria , on the West side of the Rialto Bridge, is the other area worth checking out for nightlife. Expect bars to be open until 2 am.

In general, young Venetians go to mainland Mestre or Lido if they are looking to party!

Books to Read on Venice

• Lonely Planet Venice & the Veneto (Travel Guide)  – Relevant, up-to-date travel information and advice from the world’s leading travel guide publisher, Lonely Planet.
• The City of Falling Angels  – A piece of non-fiction work by John Berendt that reveals the truth behind a fire in 1996 that destroyed the historic La Fenice opera house of Venice, Italy.
• The Merchant of Venice   – William Shakespeare’s 16th-century play in which a merchant in Venice must default on a loan provided by a Jewish moneylender named Shylock.
• Death in Venice   – Gustav von Aschenbach, a great writer, travels to Venice to alleviate a case of writer’s block. It is here that he becomes obsessed with a young boy and is drawn down a ruinous path before he succumbs to the plague.
• Venice: A New History – Using archived materials and newly translated documents, this book chronicles Venice from the city’s origins, to a Renaissance epicenter and finally to a modern tourist hub.

Volunteering in Venice

Long term travel is awesome. Giving back is awesome too. For backpackers looking to travel long-term on a budget in  Venice  whilst making a real impact on local communities, look no further than  World Packers . World Packers is an excellent platform  connecting travelers with meaningful volunteer positions throughout the world .

In exchange for a few hours of work each day, your room and board are covered.

Backpackers can spend long periods of time volunteering in an awesome place without spending any money. Meaningful life and travel experiences are rooted in stepping out of your comfort zone and into the world of a purposeful project.

Worldpackers opens the doors for work opportunities in hostels, homestays, NGOs, and eco-projects around the world. We’ve tried and approved them ourselves – check out our Worldpackers in-depth review here.

If you’re ready to create a life-changing travel experience and give back to the community, join the Worldpacker community now. As a Broke Backpacker reader, you’ll get a special discount of $10. Just use the discount code BROKEBACKPACKER and your membership is discounted from $49 a year to only $39.

Worldpackers: connecting travellers with  meaningful travel experiences.

Make Money Online whilst Backpacking Venice

Traveling in Venice long-term? Keen to make some cash when you are not exploring the city?

Teaching English online is a great way to earn a consistent income—from anywhere in the world with a good internet connection. Depending on your qualifications (or your motivation to obtain qualifications like a TEFL certificate) you can teach English remotely from your laptop, save some cash for your next adventure, and make a positive impact on the world by improving another person’s language skills!

It’s a win-win! Check out this detailed article for everything you need to know to start teaching English online .

In addition to giving you the qualifications to teach English online, TEFL courses open up a huge range of opportunities and you can find teaching work all over the world. To find out more about TEFL courses and how you can teach English around the world, read my in-depth report on teaching English abroad .

Broke Backpacker readers get a 50% discount on TEFL courses with MyTEFL (simply enter the code PACK50), to find out more, please read my in-depth report on teaching English abroad.

Whether you are keen to teach English online or looking to take your teaching game a step further by finding a job teaching English in a foreign country, getting your TEFL certificate is absolutely a step in the right direction.

Being a Responsible Backpacker in Venice

Reduce your plastic footprint:  Perhaps the best thing you can do for our planet is to make sure you do NOT add to the plastic problem all over the world. Don’t buy one-use water bottles, the plastic ends up in landfill or in the ocean. Instead, pack a  tough travel water bottle .

Go and watch A Plastic Ocean on Netflix – it’ll change how you view the plastic problem in the world; you need to understand what we are up against. If you think it doesn’t matter, get off my fucking site.

Don’t pick up single use plastic bags, you’re a backpacker – take your daypack if you need to go to the shop or run errands.

Bear in mind, that many animal products in countries you travel through will not be ethically farmed and won’t be of the highest quality. I’m a carnivore but when I’m on the road, I only eat chicken. Mass-farming of cows etc leads to the rainforest being cut down – which is obviously a huge problem.

Need more guidance? – Check out our post on  how to be a responsible backpacker.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alexandria Zboyovski

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I had travelled to Venice during the Venice carnival and absolutely loved the place… It’s a must visit for every traveler… This guide to travel Venice on a budget is absolutely doable

Great guide, travelling to Venice during off season not just saves you money but it is less crowded as well.

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Venice access fee: what is it and how much does it cost?

The Italian Unesco site is hoping to reduce over-tourism with the charge – the first of its kind in a major city

After years in the making, Venice will on Thursday begin charging day trippers to enter the city in an effort to protect the Unesco world heritage site from the effects of over-tourism.

While the measure has ignited criticism and derision from some, who argue it is unconstitutional and restrictive of freedom of movement – the Venice mayor, Luigi Brugnaro, has compared his “bravery” in enacting the charge to that of the Venetian explorer Marco Polo, in daring to go where others have feared to tread.

In some ways this is true: Venice will become the first major city in the world to adopt such an initiative, and others grappling with the impact of mass tourism are keenly observing.

However, will this bold experiment work in practice? Will it help save Venice, a uniquely beautiful city that campaigners have warned for decades is in peril? And – most importantly, perhaps, for anyone looking to book their trip – how do you buy your tickets?

Why is this being introduced?

According to Simone Venturini, the city’s councillor for tourism, Venice “affixed itself” to mass tourism in the 1960s and since then visitor numbers have surged to the point that during the busiest periods of the year it attracts an average of 40,000 people a day.

That number has put pressure on the fragile lagoon, while pushing residents away from the main island. Brugnaro said he wanted to make Venice “livable” again.

However, the final push to enact the measure came after Unesco threatened last year to put Venice on its list of heritage sites in danger, citing mass tourism and rising water levels attributed to climate change.

While Venice has moved to counter mass tourism in recent years by banning huge cruise ships from chugging through its centre, the city only escaped the potential shame of losing its Unesco status after the access charge was agreed.

How much is the charge and who has to pay?

The “Venice access fee” costs €5 (£4.30). It could be worse – when the idea was first suggested it was €10. Only day trippers have to pay. Residents, commuters, students and children under 14 are exempt, as are tourists who stay overnight. Critics of the scheme say the €5 is unlikely to deter many people.

How do I buy a ticket, and on which dates is one required?

The tickets are bookable online and apply on 29 peak dates between 25 April and 14 July. The dates are listed on the site. You will be provided with a QR code on your phone – guard it as this is the proof that you have paid the fee.

Hang on, Venice is a massive place with dozens of islands. Where exactly does it apply?

The charge applies only to those entering the historic centre of Venice between 8.30am and 4pm on any of the peak dates. That includes the Rialto Bridge, St Mark’s Square, La Fenice opera house and many other top-drawer tourist attractions, as well as quieter neighbourhoods such as the island of Giudecca.

What if I arrive in Venice without the QR code or I don’t have access to a mobile phone?

Fear not. When you arrive in Venice, says the council, be it by train, bus, or boat, stewards wearing white bibs featuring the city’s logo will guide you through buying the ticket online and downloading the QR code.

Those without a phone can pay at water taxi stations or in tabacchi shops, Venturini says.

The five key entrance points are Venezia Santa Lucia train station, bus terminals at Piazzale Roma and Tronchetto, and vaporetti (water bus) stops at Zattere and the Riva degli Schiavoni, the waterfront that covers the entrance to St Mark’s Square.

How will the measure be implemented?

Brugnaro has promised the system will be imposed with “very soft controls” and “without queues”, rejecting speculation the city would be installing barriers or turnstiles in the streets.

In effect, the authorities hope the measure will be implemented by means of a fleet of 180 personnel, made up of volunteer stewards, council staff and public officials. Those wearing white bibs are there to inform, while those wearing yellow bibs are there to do random checks and have the power to issue fines for those without a QR code.

Venturini said that if you arrived without one and did not approach someone in a white bib for information, and you were then spot-checked by someone in a yellow bib, you would risk being fined.

And how bad are the penalties?

Fines range from €50 to €300. “Don’t worry, nobody will be arrested for not having paid the fee,” said a council spokesperson.

• Climate crisis

More on this story

Venice mayor says he is brave like Marco Polo in charging day-trippers €5

Venice to limit tourist group size to 25 to protect historic city

Venice gondola capsizes after tourists refuse to sit down and stop taking selfies

Venice to trial €5 ticketing system for day visitors from 2024

I took my mum to Venice – it was instantly special

Seagulls force Venice’s Marco Polo airport to close briefly

Venice awaits Unesco heritage ruling as beds for tourists outnumber residents for first time

Venice crash victims named as debate rages over Italy’s roads

Unesco recommends putting Venice on heritage danger list

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Venice Travel Guide 2024-2025: Discover the Charm, History, and Hidden Gems of Italy's Floating City. Kindle Edition

Immerse yourself in the timeless allure of Venice with our comprehensive travel guide. As you flip through the pages of this meticulously crafted handbook, you'll embark on a journey through winding canals, historic alleyways, and magnificent piazzas that have enchanted travelers for centuries.

Each chapter of our guide is designed to transport you deeper into the heart of this floating city, revealing its hidden treasures and iconic landmarks alike. With vivid descriptions and insider tips, you'll uncover the secrets of St. Mark's Square, traverse the labyrinthine paths of the Doge's Palace, and experience the romance of a gondola ride along the Grand Canal.

But this guide is more than just words on a page—it's a visual feast that brings Venice to life in vibrant detail. Stunning photographs capture the city's architectural splendor, bustling markets, and charming neighborhoods, inviting you to imagine yourself strolling along its cobblestone streets and sipping espresso in sun-drenched squares.

From indulging in authentic Venetian cuisine to discovering the city's thriving arts scene, each section of our guide is infused with the passion and excitement that Venice inspires. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, let this guide be your companion as you embark on an unforgettable adventure through one of the world's most captivating destinations.

• Print length 91 pages
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• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CYCTTDCL
• Publication date ‏ : ‎ April 15, 2024
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