With so much to offer, it would be an impossible task to outline everything about Venice in one post. However, we have narrowed down the list to the “must know” things to keep in mind on your next visit to this beautiful city.
Travel Requirements
U.S citizens can visit without a visa for up to 90 days within each 180 day period. Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended date of departure from Italy. For all other purposes, you need a visa, which you must get from an Italian embassy or consulate before entering Italy. Visitors are also required to complete a declaration of presence. Check the full requirements here.
Lodging
The B&B Rialto 1082 is a family owned bed & breakfast, located a fantastic 5 minute walk to the Grand Canale and Rialto Bridge. Not only does the location make it a great option to stay at, but it also has very reasonable prices. Keep in mind Venice is a pricey city, so saving money on anything you can will allow you to extend your budget for longer. The B&B offers its guest the typical European breakfast: yogurt, toast, hard boiled eggs, cereal, pastries and cappuccinos. Dina, a former guest of the B&B says the breakfast is made fresh every morning. There is a lack of elevators on the premises which can be a downside for some visitors. However, we suggest you request a room on a lower floor so that you don’t have to carry luggage up too many flights of stairs.
Tip: If you are traveling with a group, you may want to look into renting an apartment through Airbnb.
Tip: It is important to remember while visiting Italy that the majority people do not speak English. If you need help make sure you ask if they speak English rather thank assuming. Previous visitors have found locals to be more inclined to help them when taking this approach.
Getting Around
Venice’s primary public transportation is the Vaporetto. It is highly suggest to get the 10 Euro Vaporetto Dell’Arte extension for less crowded and more comfortable boats. We also recommend a Travel Pass for better rates. Tickets can be found at major Vaporetto stops. You can also ask the conductor to buy one as soon as you get in. However, if you forget and you don’t have a ticket when asked for it, you will be fined a costly fine.
Any movie we have ever watch has planted the seed in our heads to partake in a romantic Gondola ride when visiting Italy. The reality behind Gondola rides is they tend to range from 60-100 euros (75-125 U.S Dollars) for a 20-30 min ride. It is important to note, depending on the time of day you go these prices will fluctuate. Alfredo Luna, recently spent some time in Venice and recommends going on the Gondola ride at twitlight, when it is more peaceful, and asking them for the day rate.
Venice has only one rowing school for tourists “Row Venice”, which is said to deliver an experience you’ll remember for a lifetime. Not only will rowing your own Gondola save you money, but visitors also report learning a good deal of history and fun facts about being a gondolier.
Tip: For those with a passion for shopping, spend half a day in Murano to see how famous Murano glass is made. If you plan on buying Murano glass, make sure you do it while visiting Murano to secure your purchase is authentic.
Tip: Previous visitors say 3 full days is a good amount of time to spend in Venice. It is important to note that June through mid September is considered high season and prices are higher than usual.
How To Dine in Venice
Previous visitors warn against accepting invitations from employees as you walk around to go into their restaurants. A lot of these restaurants offer you a free drink or a great view while you eat but the bill is pretty steep. Also, if you go to a coffee shop and you decide to take a seat with that cappuccino, expect to pay at least triple of what you would standing. This is because in Italy, servers are paid a wage instead of working for tips like in the U.S.
Tip: Stop by “Alfredo’s” if you want great fresh pasta without the large bill!
Tip: Cicchetti are like Spanish tapas and cost €1-2 ($1-3) each.They are typically eaten standing up and are the most authentic Venetian cuisine you can have. Don’t leave Venice without trying them.
Tip: Stop by the Gelateria Alaska, tucked away on Calle Larga dei Bari, in the Santa Croce neighborhood. Some consider it Venice’s best gelateria. The owner Carlo, makes his homemade gelato daily. When they are out of a certain flavor, that’s it for the day so make sure you make it early!
With so many places to see, things to do, and endless options, we hope you find these small but very important tips useful on your next visit to Venice Italy.
