Venice Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
Planning Your Trip
When is the best time to visit Venice?
Shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) are generally recommended for pleasant weather and fewer crowds than summer.
Winter (November-March) offers a less crowded, more atmospheric experience, though it can be foggy and you might encounter acqua alta (high tide).
How many days should I spend in Venice?
While you can see the main sights in a day, most visitors recommend at least 2-3 nights to truly experience the city and explore off the beaten path.
Is Venice too crowded?
Yes, the main tourist areas like St. Mark’s Square and Rialto Bridge are extremely crowded, especially during peak season.
To avoid the crowds, get up early, stay out late, and wander away from the main thoroughfares into the residential sestieri (neighborhoods).
Is Venice expensive?
Yes, it’s generally an expensive city, particularly for accommodations and dining in tourist zones.
You can save money by staying in nearby Mestre, eating away from the main sights, and using public transport passes.
Should I book a hotel in Venice or Mestre?
Staying in Venice itself provides an immersive experience and allows for early morning/late-night walks without the day-tripper crowds.
Staying in Mestre is significantly cheaper and is a short train or bus ride away (5-10 minutes).
What’s the best way to get from the airport to Venice?
From Venice Marco Polo (VCE):
Water taxi: The most scenic but most expensive option, taking you directly to your hotel.
Alilaguna water bus: A more affordable water option with various routes and stops.
Bus: The cheapest and fastest option to Piazzale Roma.
From Treviso (TSF):
A bus is the most common way to get to Venice, as it’s further away.
What should I pack for Venice?
Comfortable walking shoes are a must—you’ll be walking a lot on uneven surfaces and over bridges.
A small backpack is useful for navigating narrow alleys.
Pack layers, as the weather can change.
If visiting in winter, be prepared for rain and potential acqua alta.
Getting Around Venice
How do I get around Venice?
The best way to get around is by walking. It’s the only way to truly explore the city’s hidden gems.
The public transport system is a network of water buses called vaporetti.
Are the vaporetto passes worth it?
Yes, if you plan to use the water buses more than once or twice a day, a 24-hour or multi-day pass is a good investment.
A single vaporetto ticket is expensive.
How do vaporetti work?
They are like public buses, but on water.
You buy tickets at stations, from tobacconists, or through the Venezia Unica app.
Always validate your ticket before boarding by tapping it on the electronic reader.
What is the difference between vaporetto Line 1 and Line 2?
Line 1 is the “slow boat,” stopping at every stop along the Grand Canal—it’s the scenic route.
Line 2 is the “express boat,” with fewer stops, making it faster for getting around.
Should I take a gondola ride?
It’s a quintessential Venice experience, but it’s very expensive. Prices are fixed, but you should confirm the rate beforehand.
Consider a traghetto—a shared gondola that crosses the Grand Canal for a couple of euros—for a quick, affordable taste of the experience.
Is it easy to get lost in Venice?
Yes, and that’s part of the charm! Put away your map and just wander.
Signs pointing to “Rialto,” “San Marco,” and “Ferrovia” (train station) can help you get your bearings.
How do I deal with the bridges and stairs?
There are over 400 bridges, most with stairs. This makes Venice challenging for those with mobility issues or heavy luggage.
Pack light and be prepared for a workout.
Sights and Activities
What are the must-see sights in Venice?
Piazza San Marco (St. Mark’s Square) and St. Mark’s Basilica.
Doge’s Palace.
Rialto Bridge and the Rialto Market.
A ride along the Grand Canal.
Is the Doge’s Palace worth it?
Absolutely. It’s a key part of Venetian history and a stunning example of Gothic architecture. The Secret Itineraries Tour is highly recommended for a deeper dive.
What’s a good day trip from Venice?
Murano, Burano, and Torcello are the classic choices.
Murano: Famous for its glass-making.
Burano: Known for its brightly colored houses and lace-making.
Torcello: A quiet island with an ancient cathedral and a bell tower you can climb.
Are there any hidden gems or non-touristy things to do?
Explore the quieter sestieri like Cannaregio or Castello.
Visit lesser-known churches like the Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari.
Climb the Campanile di San Giorgio Maggiore for a different perspective of Venice.
Visit Libreria Acqua Alta, a unique bookstore.
Should I get a museum pass?
If you plan to visit multiple civic museums (like the Doge’s Palace), the Venezia Unica Pass can save you money and time by allowing you to skip lines.
Is the “Secret Itineraries” tour at the Doge’s Palace worth it?
Yes, it offers access to parts of the palace not open to the general public, including the torture chambers and Casanova’s prison cell.
Food and Drink
How can I find good, authentic food in Venice?
Avoid restaurants with a “tourist menu” and photos of food.
Walk a few streets away from the main tourist hubs.
Look for osterias and trattorias with menus written in Italian.
Use Google Maps or TripAdvisor to check reviews.
What are cicchetti?
They are Venetian tapas—small plates of food, often served in traditional bars called bacari. It’s a great way to eat and drink like a local.
What is a spritz?
A popular Venetian aperitif made with a bitter liqueur (like Aperol or Select), prosecco, and a splash of soda water.
Where can I find good cicchetti bars?
Look in the Dorsoduro and Cannaregio neighborhoods. Osteria al Squero and Cantine del Vino già Schiavi are two highly-rated options.
Is it bad to order a cappuccino after lunch?
According to traditional Italian customs, yes. Cappuccinos are considered a breakfast drink. Locals usually have an espresso after a meal.
What are some Venetian dishes I should try?
Sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines).
Risotto al nero di seppia (risotto with squid ink).
Fegato alla veneziana (Venetian-style liver).
Etiquette and Culture
Are there any specific rules or etiquette I should know?
Don’t sit or eat on bridges or in public squares. This is now a a fineable offense.
Respect the “slow city” pace and don’t rush through the narrow streets.
Walk on the right side of the paths to allow others to pass.
Is it okay to haggle at markets?
No, haggling is not a common practice in Venice, especially in formal shops or restaurants.
What Italian phrases should I know?
Buongiorno (Good morning/day).
Grazie (Thank you).
Prego (You’re welcome).
Scusi (Excuse me/sorry).
Practical Information
What is acqua alta?
Acqua alta is a high tide phenomenon that causes flooding in low-lying areas, most famously St. Mark’s Square.
It’s most common in autumn and winter.
The city sets up raised walkways in the most affected areas.
Are there pickpockets in Venice?
Like any major tourist city, yes. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas like St. Mark’s Square and on crowded vaporetti.
Can I use a credit card everywhere?
Major hotels and restaurants accept credit cards, but many smaller shops, cafes, and bacari are cash-only. Always carry some euros.
Is there a tourist tax?
Yes, as of April 2024, a visitor fee is in effect for day-trippers on specific peak days. You can pre-register and pay online.
How do I find a public restroom?
Public restrooms are scarce and often have a small fee. Your best bet is to use the facilities at cafes or museums.
What’s the best way to do laundry?
Many hotels offer laundry service, or you can find a laundromat (lavanderia) in the city.
Additional Questions
Are the Venetian masks and Murano glass authentic?
Many masks and glass items are mass-produced in China. Look for shops with a “Vetro Artistico Murano” sticker for authentic glass.
For masks, look for local artisans creating them by hand.
Is Venice smelly?
Generally, no. The canals are saltwater and are flushed by the tides. It might have a unique odor in certain spots on a hot summer day, but it’s not a common problem.
Is Venice accessible for someone with a disability?
Venice can be challenging due to its numerous bridges and staircases. Some vaporetti are wheelchair accessible, but navigating the city itself can be difficult.
Is it safe to walk around at night?
Yes, Venice is considered very safe. The main areas are well-lit and have plenty of people.
How far in advance should I book my hotel?
For peak season, book well in advance (3-6 months) for the best selection and prices. For off-season, you can be more flexible.
And 60 More Quick Answers…
Is there a dress code for churches? Yes, shoulders and knees should be covered.
Can I swim in the canals? No, it is strictly forbidden and dangerous.
Is the water taxi from the airport to Venice a shared ride? Private water taxis are a per-boat cost, but there are also shared water taxi services.
Are there grocery stores in Venice? Yes, you can find small supermarkets and local markets.
What are the opening hours for museums? They vary, so check online beforehand. Many are closed on Mondays.
Do I need cash for a gondola ride? Yes, it’s best to pay the gondolier in cash.
What’s a good place for a panoramic view? The Campanile di San Marco, San Giorgio Maggiore, or the rooftop terrace at Fondaco dei Tedeschi.
Should I tip in Venice? Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated for good service (around 5-10%).
Can I rent a bicycle? No, bicycles are banned in Venice’s historic center.
What’s a “sestiere”? A neighborhood or district in Venice. There are six of them.
Are public water fountains safe to drink from? Yes, Venice’s public fountains have safe drinking water.
What’s a calle? A Venetian street.
What’s a campo? A square or open space.
Can I take a ferry to the Lido? Yes, the Lido is an island with beaches and a great day trip.
Is it worth buying a tourist pass that includes city transport and museums? Yes, if you plan to visit multiple museums and use the vaporetto often.
Are there mosquitoes in Venice? Yes, especially in the summer. Pack bug spray.
Can I walk from Piazzale Roma to St. Mark’s Square? Yes, but it’s a long walk (30-45 minutes).
Do I need to book restaurants in advance? For popular, higher-end restaurants, yes. For casual trattorias, it’s often not necessary.
Is it okay to bring a suitcase with wheels? Yes, but be prepared for the noise on bridges and the challenge of lifting it over stairs.
What’s the best time for a gondola ride? Sunset or early morning for a romantic and less crowded experience.
Where can I find an authentic carnival mask? Look for mascareri (mask makers) workshops.
Is Venice a good place for a family trip? Yes, as long as you plan for the walking and crowds. Kids often love the boats.
What’s the best way to get from Venice to Florence? The high-speed train is the most efficient option.
Are there any beaches near Venice? Yes, the Lido is a popular beach destination.
What’s a good alternative to a gondola ride? A ride on the vaporetto along the Grand Canal.
What’s the food like in Mestre? It is generally cheaper and more focused on local residents than tourists.
How do I get to Murano and Burano? Take the vaporetto from a major stop like Fondamente Nove.
Is it a good idea to rent a car? No, cars are not allowed in the historic center.
Can I see Venice in one day? Yes, but it will be a whirlwind tour of the main sights and a very crowded experience.
Are there street performers in Venice? Yes, you’ll find them in the main squares and on bridges.
What is the acqua alta warning system? Sirens sound to warn of high water levels.
What is the best neighborhood to stay in? Dorsoduro is often recommended for its art, cafes, and slightly quieter atmosphere.
Is it safe to drink tap water? Yes, the tap water is safe to drink.
Can I buy a SIM card for my phone? Yes, you can buy a local SIM card at the airport or in a phone shop.
What’s the difference between a bar and a bacaro? A bar is a cafe, while a bacaro is a small, traditional bar for cicchetti and wine.
Is it easy to find vegetarian/vegan food? It’s becoming easier, but it may require some research.
Do I need to learn Italian? No, many locals in the tourist areas speak English, but a few basic phrases are appreciated.
What’s a good souvenir to buy? Murano glass, a handmade carnival mask, or a bottle of Select.
Are there public toilets at St. Mark’s Square? Yes, there is a paid public toilet.
How can I avoid getting scammed? Be wary of unofficial vendors and people who offer “free” things.
Can I visit the islands of the lagoon on a budget? Yes, by using your vaporetto pass.
Is it worth getting up early? Yes, to experience the city without the crowds.
What is a “Venetian sandwich”? A tramezzino – a triangular sandwich with various fillings.
Are there gondola tours with singing? Yes, but they are often more expensive and cater to tourists.
Can I take a cooking class? Yes, cooking classes are a popular activity.
Is Venice a good city for solo travelers? Yes, it’s very safe and easy to navigate on your own.
Can I see a gondola workshop? Yes, there are a few. Look up squeri.
What are the best views of the Grand Canal? From the Rialto Bridge, the Accademia Bridge, or from a vaporetto.
What’s the best way to see the Doge’s Palace without the crowds? Book your tickets online for the earliest time slot.
What is Campiello? A small square or courtyard.
What’s the local’s favorite spritz? The “Select” spritz, which uses a less sweet liqueur than Aperol.
Can I get lost on purpose? It’s highly encouraged to do so and find your own discoveries.
What’s the Venice Biennale? A world-renowned arts and architecture exhibition held every other year.
Are there free things to do in Venice? Yes, wandering the streets, visiting churches, and enjoying the squares are all free.
How long does it take to walk across the city? From Piazzale Roma to St. Mark’s Square is about 30-45 minutes.
Is it worth visiting during Carnival? Yes, but be prepared for very high prices and immense crowds.
Can I visit the islands of Murano and Burano in one day? Yes, it is a very common day trip.
What is the best month to visit Venice for good weather and fewer crowds? May and October.
Should I book train tickets in advance? Yes, for long-distance trains to get the best prices.
Is Venice worth visiting despite the high prices and crowds? The overwhelming consensus is yes, it is a truly unique and magical place that is worth the effort.