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As one of the most visited cities in Italy, the enchanting city of Venice is known for its romantic vibes, canals, and impressive architecture. A destination that should sit firmly on your travel bucket list, Venice boasts timeless beauty, a rich past, and distinctive charm! If you’re yet to explore the city of canals, these tips for Venice will help you make the most of your time.
Allow yourself to get lost in the maze-like streets, ride an iconic gondola, and delve deep into the history of Venice. In this post, we’ll share everything you need to know, from must-see attractions, free things to do, hidden gems, and much more. If you follow our guide, your first trip to Venice is bound to be unforgettable!
Tips for Venice for first-timers
You need to know several things before visiting Venice for the first time. Here are some things to keep in mind:
You need at least three days in Venice.
There’s a reason Venice is such a famous city. Not only is it stunning, but there are many things to do! In addition to top attractions such as Saint Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace, there are colorful islands to explore nearby. Murano and Burano are the most popular, and you should spend at least a day checking out these well-loved islands.
With two days in Venice and a day of island hopping, you’ll be able to see most of the top attractions in the area. However, five days in Venice is ideal if you like to wander at a slower pace and delve deep into local culture. Alternatively, you can go for a week and include day trips to nearby cities such as Verona and Florence. Simply put, there are so many places worth visiting in Italy!
It’s easy to get lost in Venice.
Getting lost in Venice is the norm. The maze-like winding streets can make getting from A to B challenging. However, that’s all part of the charm! Although I can almost guarantee it will take longer to reach your destination, you’ll stumble across charming back alleys and photo opportunities.
Speaking of getting around, the signal could be better as you navigate the backstreets of Venice. As a solution, download offline maps using maps.me to help you get to your chosen destination with a low GPS signal.
Remember, part of the city’s charm is getting lost and discovering unknown locations. So, embrace the adventure, explore the waterways, and let the city guide you to its hidden gems!
You’ll be doing A LOT of walking.
Be prepared to climb up and down many bridges during your Venice trip. If you have mobility troubles or heavy luggage, this is something to remember. Due to the city’s compact size, many of the top landmarks are within walking distance of each other. This means you’ll likely get a lot of steps in as you check out the best things to do in Venice.
For optimal comfort, you should wear comfortable shoes. As you’ll spend most of your days on foot, the last thing you need are blisters or sore feet! Come prepared with stylish (but comfy) walking shoes, and you’ll be good to go!
Venice is overrun with crowds.
Venice has suffered from over-tourism for many years now. As one of the most popular cities to visit in Italy, millions of travelers head to Venice each year. If you don’t like crowds, opt to stay during the off-season. Between November and May, there are fewer crowds than during summer. However, with nicer weather, spring does see a rise in tourism in the city.
Book tickets in advance.
Due to over-tourism, booking tickets for attractions in advance is one of my best tips for Venice! Otherwise, you may need to wait in long queues or miss out completely. Usually, you can do this via the attraction’s website by selecting a date and time. However, you can also purchase skip-the-line tickets via Get Your Guide or Viator.
You need to pay to use public toilets.
Although there aren’t many, public toilets are scattered around the city. They’re in popular areas such as Academia Bridge and the train station. However, they are not free to use; expect to pay €1.50 for the privilege.
Flooding sometimes happens.
Although Venice is known for its picturesque canals, it’s also infamous for occasional flooding. While the city’s unique location in the Venetian Lagoon adds to its allure, it also makes it vulnerable.
High tides in the city have previously hit the headlines, so be prepared if you’re considering a Venice trip between October and January! If you visit the city during this time, pack raincoats, wellies, and umbrellas.
Despite the challenges posed by flooding, Venice remains a captivating destination. The city’s unique atmosphere and architectural wonders make it a dreamy destination to explore!
How to get to Venice
Whether you’re arriving from abroad or traveling internally in Italy, there are several ways to get to the magical city of Venice. The most popular include:
By plane
Located on the mainland, many major airlines offer direct flights to Marco Polo Airport from across the globe. If you’re traveling from within Europe and looking for the best deal, consider flying with Ryanair or EasyJet.
By train
If you’re traveling from within Italy, the best way to get to Venice is by train. Italy is known for its reliable train network, making it perhaps the most convenient way to travel between cities.
Stazione di Venezia Santa Lucia is the central train station in the city, located around a 30-minute walk from St. Marks Square. Trains from many Italian destinations (such as Verona and Florence) arrive here.
By bus
You could also consider getting to Venice by bus. Flixbus offers services between Venice and many other Italian cities. Just make sure you catch the bus heading towards Venice (Tronchetto) as it’s the most convenient.
How to get around in Venice
Getting around Venice requires a unique approach. As a city of winding backstreets, bridges, and canals, some ways of getting around are unconventional. Navigating this remarkable Italian city with unique transportation methods is part of the adventure.
Here are our tips for Venice when it comes to getting around:
Embrace the world-renowned canals.
Venice is (obviously) known for its canals, and getting around via the waterways is a popular method of transportation. For example, hopping on a Vaporetto is the cheapest and most convenient way to get around Venice. With stations near all the top attractions, you’ll arrive at your destination in no time!
Wander around on foot.
Ultimately, the only other way to get around in Venice is on foot. With its narrow backstreets, bridges, and winding alleyways, cars and bicycles would struggle to get from A to B. Even if it was possible, cars are strictly prohibited in the center of Venice (where all the top attractions are). Plus, walking around is the best way to take in the unique vibes of the city.
When visiting Venice for the first time, you’ll likely want to check out the top attractions! While there are many places worth adding to your itinerary, one of my top tips for Venice is to take it slow! You may be tempted to rush around if you’re only in the city for a few days. However, by exploring at a slower pace, you can appreciate the true beauty of this Italian gem!
That being said, here are some things you can’t miss as you visit Venice for the first time:
Spend half a day in St. Marks Square.
Visiting St. Mark’s Square is a must-do while exploring this famous Italian city. Bursting with stunning ornate architecture, al-fresco dining, and Venetian charm, Piazza San Marco is a fab place to spend an afternoon in Venice. Although cafes in the square certainly hike the prices, the price of coffee here is worth it just to take in the incredible views!
Aside from grabbing a coffee, there are a number of things worth doing in Piazza San Marco. First, you must take advantage of visiting the awe-inspiring St. Mark’s Basilica. This architectural beauty is one of Italy’s finest gems, alongside renowned buildings such as Florence Cathedral and many more. After admiring the intricate details of the exterior, head inside to check out the stunning mosaics. Finally, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the terrace for panoramic views of St. Mark’s Square from above.
Once you’ve explored St. Mark’s Basilica, climb St. Mark’s Campanile. Standing high above Venice at over 98 meters, this iconic bell tower offers unbeaten views of Venice that will leave you mesmerized! You’ll spot rows of terracotta rooftops from the top, the peaceful lagoon stretching into the horizon, and the bustling St. Mark’s Square below.
Admire Rialto Bridge.
Venice is famous for its ornate bridges, with the Rialto Bridge being the most iconic. This architectural gem holds a unique history and charming Italian allure. Dating back to the late 16th Century and designed by Antonio da Ponte, the Rialto Bridge boasts incredible views of the Grand Canal. In fact, it’s the most beautiful bridge in all of Venice!
Marvel at The Grand Canal.
Speaking of the Grand Canal, you can’t miss this spot when visiting Venice for the first time! As you stroll across the famous bridges of Venice, you’ll be treated to the magical sights of gondolas gliding beneath you. The world-famous waterway is a picture-perfect spot that captures the essence and beauty of this stunning city.
See some art at Peggy Guggenheim Collection.
The Peggy Guggenheim Collection is a captivating art museum in Venice’s center. It showcases an impressive selection of contemporary art, including sculptures, paintings, and mixed media pieces. Furthermore, the gallery also offers guided tours for art lovers looking to delve deeper into the museum’s masterpieces.
View the city from Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo.
If you’re looking for panoramic views of Venice, look no further than Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo. This architectural wonder is an ideal place to take in city views. After climbing its winding staircase, check out the stunning aerial views of one of the most beautiful cities in Italy.
Wander around the beautiful Doge’s Palace.
Afterward, make your way to Doge’s Palace. The former residence of the city’s chief magistrate was transformed into a captivating museum in 1923. Step inside and prepare to be amazed by the impressive paintings, sculptures, and luxurious decor. Take your time exploring the grounds of this magnificent palace. The sheer beauty and artistic wonders will leave you in awe!
Check out the Libreria Acqua Alta.
An Instagrammers dream, Libreria Acqua Alta is a one-of-a-kind bookstore in the city’s heart. Its imaginative charm has captured the hearts of many travelers, with the bookshop sitting atop many Venice bucket lists. Inside you can find an array of vintage books and a unique interior!
Check out the Bridge of Sighs.
As you wander around the corner from St. Mark’s Square and (more than likely) see a large crowd, you’ll come across the Bridge of Sighs. Legend has it, the famous name comes from sighing prisoners as they caught their final glimpse of Venice before being locked away. Apparently, these sighs symbolize their loss of freedom in the city.
Explore Murano and Burano.
Finally, one of my biggest tips for Venice is to embark on a boat journey to the captivating islands of Murano and Burano. These vibrant islands offer a colorful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Less crowded, the islands burst with charm, artistic craftsmanship, and photo opportunities!
Murano is renowned for its famous glass, while Burano is known for intricate lacework. Both islands boast a kaleidoscope of colorful homes painted in every shade imaginable.
Where to Stay in Venice
Luxury: The Gritti Palace: Located on the Grand Canal, this former noble residence has been transformed into a luxurious hotel with modern touches that is close to everything. If you’re a Bonvoy member, use your points to book this hotel!
Mid-Range: Hotel Arlecchino: Recommended by Rick Steves, this is where we stayed during our trip. The Arlecchino is near the main train station, making it easy to get there. There are lots of restaurants and bars nearby, though it does mean a longer walk to some spots, though the Vaporetto is nearby.
Budget: Hotel Mercurio: Guests report friendly and helpful staff with clean and comfortable rooms. The hotel’s breakfast is highly rated.
Final Thoughts on Tips for Venice
I didn’t realize how exhausting it would be to visit Venice! There are so many stairs! Be prepared to either lug your own luggage up and down or pay someone to do it. But I wouldn’t trade it for anything! Venice is really worth the hype, as long as you know what to expect. I would go again in a heartbeat!
I hope you have an incredible first trip to Venice!
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Happy travels,
Annick, The Common Traveler
Raised as a third culture kid living in South America and Europe, Annick caught the travel bug early. As an empty-nester, Annick enjoys sharing her tips for traveling for those with champagne taste and beer budgets.