Practical tips

Venice is a popular tourist destination, so it's a good idea to book accommodation in advance, especially in high season. Staying in the historic center can be more expensive, but waking up to the sound of gondoliers singing on the canal is an unforgettable experience.

If you plan to visit the most famous sights, such as St. Mark's Basilica or the Doge's Palace, it is better to buy tickets online in advance to avoid queues. If you want to enjoy St. Mark’s Square without the crowds, visit early in the morning or late in the evening when most tourists have left.

Venice has an extensive public transport network, which includes the vaporetto, water buses. Buy public transport cards to get around the city with ease. A single ticket can be pricey, but multi-day passes offer better value. If you want to feel like a local, try taking a traghetto—a cheap gondola-style ferry that crosses the Grand Canal for just a few euros.

There is a lot of walking in Venice, so put on comfortable shoes and explore the city on bridges and narrow streets. Avoid high heels or thin-soled sneakers—the old paving stones can be uneven.

Water – in Venice, you will find many fountains with continuously flowing drinking water, where you can refill your bottle for free. The local tap water is safe and high quality, so there’s no need to buy bottled water.

Avoid the main tourist routes and discover hidden corners and less visited parts of the city where you can experience authentic Venetian life. At the same time, keep in mind that Venice is a labyrinth of narrow streets and canals, and you can get lost, so allow yourself enough time to explore the city. Locals often navigate by church towers—try using them as landmarks.

If you plan to visit during the Venice Carnival or other festivals, book your accommodation and tickets well in advance. The carnival usually takes place here in February, the Venice Film Festival then at the turn of August and September. For a quieter experience, visit in spring or autumn when the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are smaller.

If you want to save money on food, venture away from the main tourist areas. Restaurants right on St. Mark’s Square can be very expensive, but if you walk a few streets away, you’ll find cozy trattorias offering great food at more reasonable prices. And never sit down for a coffee on the main square unless you're prepared to pay a small fortune for the view.

Beware of flooding (acqua alta) – in winter months, parts of the city can be underwater. If you see acqua alta in the forecast, bring waterproof footwear or check where you can rent rubber overshoes.