Practical tips
Hi, great to have you here! Venice is a beautiful city, but it's true that there are a few things to keep in mind to fully enjoy your trip. Here are a few important tips to avoid common mistakes and make your trip safer:
Keep an eye on your valuables
Venice is a magnet for pickpockets, especially in busy places like the Rialto Bridge or St. Mark's Square. Never leave your valuables unattended.
➡️ Read more: How to best protect your valuables and which places to avoid.
Keep
moving
Don't sit on bridges, stairs, or the edge of canals. This blocks the path for locals and other tourists and can even result in a fine.
➡️ Read more: What the fine law is all about and where you can rest instead.
Be considerate in the alleys
In Venice's narrow alleys, it's like being on the highway: Always walk on the right! This helps keep the flow of people flowing and avoid traffic jams.
➡️ Read more: The unwritten rules of Venetian alleyway etiquette and how to adapt.
Order
correctly
If you order your coffee while sitting at a table, you'll pay significantly more than if you drink it directly at the counter. This is an Italian quirk worth knowing.
➡️ Read more: The different ways to order coffee and how you can save money.
Beware of
overcrowded vaporetti
Sometimes the waterbuses (vaporetti) are so full that you can barely find a seat. If you have a lot of luggage, it's advisable to walk or find an alternative.
➡️ Read more: When peak times are and what alternatives there are to overcrowded vaporetti.
Watch out for flooding (Acqua Alta)
St. Mark's Square being flooded is a familiar sight, but it's important to be prepared. Wooden walkways are sometimes set up, but rubber boots are the best choice.
➡️ Read more: Everything you need to know about flood warnings and how to prepare.
Avoid
tourist
traps
Main street restaurants often lure in customers with menus that seem cheap but are of inferior quality. Instead, look for restaurants on side streets where locals eat.
➡️ Read more: Tips on how to distinguish authentic restaurants from tourist traps.
Dress
respectfully in Venice
When visiting churches, especially St. Mark's Basilica, appropriate attire is required. Shoulders and knees should be covered.
➡️ Read more: The dress code for Venice's churches and how to dress appropriately for entry.