Venice, Italy

Venice spreads across hundreds of low-lying islands in a lagoon in the northern crescent of the Adriatic Sea. A single bridge links it to the mainland city of Mestre. Traffic ends at Piazzale Roma, making the city serenely free of buses, cars and motorcycles—even bicycles are prohibited. 


The city's main waterway is the Grand Canal. The islands are also crisscrossed by 177 smaller canals and connected by more than 400 pedestrian bridges. Many streets are cobblestone, narrow and winding—some little more than sidewalks between buildings. There are 6 districts to the city: Cannaregio, San Polo, San Marco, Dorsoduro, Castello and Santa Croce. 


One of the most interesting things to visit are its many world-famous museums and artistic treasures. Some artwork stem back to the 14th-18th centuries. Another must see is the famous Piazza San Marco which many will recognize from some movies such as Summertime (1955), The Tourist (2010), The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999), and Spider-Man: Far from Home (2019). 

Best Time to Travel

The best time to visit Venice, Italy depends on what kind of experience you're looking for—whether it's fewer crowds, pleasant weather, or vibrant festivals. Here's a seasonal breakdown to help you decide:

Venice Access


📢Do you have to pay the Access Fee?

The Access Fee must be paid by everyone in the Ancient City on the scheduled days and times, unless an exemption is granted. 


Learn More: Venezia Access

Getting Around

Getting around Venice is an adventure in itself—and yes, getting lost is part of the charm! Here's what you need to know:


🚶‍♂️ Getting Around Venice

  1. By Foot
    Venice is a pedestrian paradise. The best way to explore is simply by walking. The city is compact, and every turn reveals a new bridge, piazza, or hidden gem.

    • Tip: Don’t rely too heavily on GPS—it can be unreliable in narrow alleys. Follow signs for landmarks like Rialto, San Marco, or Accademia.
  2. Vaporetto (Water Bus)
    Venice’s public transportation system runs on water.

    • Main routes: Line 1 (slow, scenic), Line 2 (faster), and Line 4.1/4.2 (circular routes).
    • Tickets: Buy in advance at ACTV machines or online. Consider a multi-day pass if you’ll be using it often.
  3. Gondolas
    Iconic but pricey. Best for a romantic or once-in-a-lifetime experience rather than daily transport.

  4. Traghetto
    A budget-friendly gondola ferry that crosses the Grand Canal at various points. Locals use it like a water taxi.

  5. Water Taxi
    Private and expensive, but convenient if you have luggage or are heading to/from the airport or train station.


🏷️ Venetian Street Signs: The “Nizioleti”

Venice has a unique and historic system of street signs that can be both charming and confusing for visitors. Here's what makes them special and how to navigate them:

  • What are they?
    The street signs in Venice are called nizioleti, which means “little sheets” in Venetian dialect. They are white rectangles with black borders and hand-painted text, often directly on the walls of buildings 

  • Why are they unique?
    Unlike modern street signs, nizioleti are part of Venice’s historic urban landscape. They often include:

    • The name of the street, bridge, or square (in Venetian dialect or Italianized form)
    • Sometimes the neighborhood (sestiere) or parish
    • Directional signs in dark red with arrows pointing to major landmarks like San Marco, Rialto, or Ferrovia (train station)


🧭 Tips for Navigating with Street Signs

  1. Follow the arrows: Red-lettered signs with arrows help guide you to major destinations.
  2. Don’t rely solely on GPS: Venice’s narrow alleys and canals can confuse digital maps.
  3. Use landmarks: Look for signs pointing to San Marco, Rialto, Accademia, or Piazzale Roma to orient yourself.
  4. Expect dialect variations: For example, San Giovanni e Paolo may appear as Zanipolo in Venetian diale


🧭 Getting Lost in Venice

  • It’s inevitable—and magical. The city’s maze-like layout means you’ll likely lose your way at some point. But that’s when you stumble upon quiet canals, charming courtyards, and local cafés.
  • Embrace it: Getting lost is part of the Venetian experience. Just allow extra time and enjoy the detour.
  • Landmarks help: Look for signs pointing to San Marco, Rialto, or Ferrovia (train station) to reorient yourself.
Did You Know?

Here are some fun and fascinating facts about Venice, Italy that highlight its unique charm and history:


🛶 1. No Cars Allowed

Venice is a car-free city! The only way to get around is by foot or boat. The canals are the main “streets,” and gondolas, vaporettos (water buses), and water taxis are the primary modes of transport.


🌊 2. Built on Water

Venice is built on 118 small islands connected by over 400 bridges and separated by about 150 canals. The buildings are supported by wooden piles driven deep into the lagoon floor.


🕰️ 3. It’s Over 1,500 Years Old

Venice was founded in the 5th century and became a major maritime power during the Middle Ages and Renaissance.


🎭 4. Birthplace of the Venetian Carnival

The famous Venetian Carnival is known for its elaborate masks and costumes. It dates back to the 12th century and was revived in the 1980s after being banned for nearly 200 years.


🖼️ 5. Home to One of the Oldest Film Festivals

The Venice Film Festival, founded in 1932, is the oldest film festival in the world and remains one of the most prestigious.


🏛️ 6. St. Mark’s Basilica Has a Golden Glow

The interior of St. Mark’s Basilica is decorated with over 8,000 square meters of golden mosaics, giving it a breathtaking glow.


🧭 7. The First Public Casino

Venice opened the world’s first public casino in 1638—the Casino di Venezia, which is still in operation today.


📬 8. Mail is Delivered by Boat

Even the postal service in Venice uses boats to deliver mail, since there are no roads for cars or trucks.


🧼 9. Venetian Glass is World-Famous

The island of Murano has been producing exquisite hand-blown glass since the 13th century. Each piece is a work of art.


🐦 10. Feeding Pigeons in St. Mark’s Square is Banned

Though once a popular tourist activity, feeding pigeons in Piazza San Marco is now illegal to protect the historic buildings and reduce mess.

Travel Notes by Robin Pickens
Unveil a New Side of Venice


Take a Peaceful Walk at Sunrise or a Relaxing Stroll After Dark

Start your day early in Venice to experience the city at its most serene. In the soft morning light, the canals are calm, the streets are quiet, and the usual crowds are still asleep. It’s the perfect time to wander, take photos, and soak in the peaceful beauty of Venice before the city fully wakes up.


Take a moment to lose yourself in the quiet charm of Venice—especially after dark, when the city transforms into a serene, dreamlike world. A nighttime stroll unveils a more intimate and enchanting side of Venice that many travelers never get to see.


Top Sunrise Spots in Venice

1. San Giorgio Maggiore (View from the Molo)

  • 📍 Across the lagoon from St. Mark’s Square
  • One of the most iconic sunrise views in Venice. Watch the sun rise behind the church with gondolas gently bobbing in the foreground

2. Riva degli Schiavoni

  • 📍 Waterfront promenade east of St. Mark’s Square
  • Offers a wide, open view of the lagoon and San Giorgio Maggiore. Great for early morning photos and a peaceful stroll

3. Piazza San Marco (St. Mark’s Square)

  • 📍 Heart of Venice
  • At sunrise, this usually crowded square is nearly empty. The golden light on the Basilica and Doge’s Palace is magical

4. Accademia Bridge

  • 📍 Spanning the Grand Canal near the Gallerie dell’Accademia
  • A favorite for photographers. Offers a postcard-perfect view of the Grand Canal and Santa Maria della Salute as the sun rises behind it

5. Rialto Bridge

  • 📍 Central Grand Canal
  • While better known for sunsets, it also offers a unique sunrise view over the canal, especially if you want to catch the city slowly coming to life

6. Parco delle Rimembranze (Sant’Elena)

  • 📍 Eastern tip of Venice
  • A quiet, green space with views across the lagoon. Ideal for a peaceful, crowd-free sunrise experience
Book Your Tourist Experience

Purchase your travel experiences before your go.

Booking well-known tours can significantly enhance your travel experience for several reasons:


What's the benefits?

  1. Expert Guidance and Local Insights: Tour guides, often locals or experts, provide valuable information and captivating stories about the destination. They can reveal hidden gems and insider tips that you might otherwise miss.
  2. Planning Ahead: It allows you to take advantage of early booking discounts, special offers, and lower prices on flights, accommodations and activities.
  3. Choice and Flexibility: This ensures you get the experience you desire and allows you to tailor your trip to your preferences. When you plan your travel experiences in advance, you can maximize your time at each destination by exploring everything it has to offer without the stress of last-minute decisions. 😃
🌀 Unusual & Memorable Experiences in Venice

Here are some unique and off-the-beaten-path experiences to enjoy in Venice that go beyond the typical tourist checklist:



1. Visit Libreria Acqua Alta

A whimsical bookstore where books are stored in bathtubs, gondolas, and waterproof bins to protect them from flooding. There's even a staircase made of old books you can climb for a canal view 


2. Explore the Flooded Crypt of San Zaccaria

This hauntingly beautiful crypt beneath the church is partially submerged in water, creating a surreal and peaceful atmosphere 


3. Climb the Scala Contarini del Bovolo

A hidden spiral staircase tucked away in a quiet courtyard. It offers a unique view over the rooftops of Venice and is often missed by tourists 


4. Tour the San Servolo Insane Asylum Museum

Located on an island, this former psychiatric hospital is now a museum that tells the story of mental health care in Venice over the centuries 


5. Take a Rowing Lesson in a Traditional Venetian Boat ***

Learn how to row like a gondolier with a hands-on lesson in a batelina or sandolo. It’s a fun and active way to experience the canals 


***Book Your Experience: Row Like a Venetian in your bella batelina with Row Venice


6. Explore the Lazzaretto Nuovo

An eerie island once used as a quarantine station during the plague. It’s full of history and legends, including tales of the “Vampire of Venice” 


7. Discover the Leaning Towers of Venice

Yes, Venice has its own leaning towers! Look for the bell towers of San Giorgio dei Greci, San Pietro di Castello, and Santo Stefano 


8. Visit the Armenian Monastery on San Lazzaro degli Armeni

A peaceful island with a working monastery, rare manuscripts, and even rose petal jam made by the monks 


9. Attend a Vivaldi Concert in a Historic Church

Experience classical music in the city where Vivaldi was born. Many churches host evening concerts with period instruments and candlelight ambiance.

Pickpockets and Safety Tips


  1. Use bags with flaps, and no exposed zippers. Carry the bag so the flap is turned to the inside next to your body. Zippers do not deter pickpockets. I personally use a cross-body bag but would also recommend a sling-bag crossbody backpack or fanny pack for men or women (use whatever fits your style).
  2. As a financial safety precaution in general, you should not carry your credit and debit cards all in one place. Keep a main credit card on you and a backup in a different spot. Leave everything else at the hotel, or at home.
  3. Do not carry anything in your pants pockets. 
  4. Replacing cards overseas is virtually impossible in any timely fashion, so having a back-up plan should something happen is critical. Know the steps you'll need to take if you have to report your card stolen, and have a different card safely tucked away in your room safe so you'll have the ability to make purchases no matter what. It's best to keep your larger limit cards in a safe spot, pulling them out only when they're needed. 
  5. I understand that many people want to use a single card for every purchase to get as many miles or points out of the trip as they can, and that card may have a high limit. Despite the inconvenience of wearing a hidden wallet under your belt or around your neck, it may be the best solution to offer the most financial security. When there is no back up or you don't want to risk losing a preferred payment method, it's the only option.
  6. Setting card spending limits is another way you can limit your exposure, in case you are robbed.
Shopping🛍️

Venice is a treasure trove of unique, handcrafted items that reflect its rich history, artistry, and culture. Here are some authentic and unique things to buy in Venice:


🎭 1. Venetian Masks

  • Why buy: Iconic symbols of the Venice Carnival, these masks are often handmade using traditional papier-mâché techniques.
  • Where to find: Artisan shops like Ca’ Macana or Original Venice Shop offer certified, handcrafted pieces

💎 2. Murano Glass

  • Why buy: World-famous for its vibrant colors and intricate designs, Murano glass includes everything from jewelry to chandeliers.
  • Tip: Visit the island of Murano for authentic pieces and live glass-blowing demonstrations

🧵 3. Burano Lace

  • Why buy: Handmade lace from the island of Burano is delicate, detailed, and a centuries-old tradition.
  • Best for: Tablecloths, handkerchiefs, or framed lace art

📜 4. Marbled Venetian Paper

  • Why buy: Beautifully hand-marbled paper used for journals, stationery, and bookbinding.
  • Where to find: Specialty paper shops like Il Papiro or Pliniana

💍 5. Filigree Jewelry

  • Why buy: Intricate, lace-like metalwork often made with silver or gold, showcasing Venetian craftsmanship.
  • Look for: Locally made pieces with certificates of authenticity

🧶 6. Fortuny Textiles

  • Why buy: Luxurious fabrics with rich patterns and colors, used in fashion and interior design.
  • Where to find: Fortuny Showroom in Venice for high-end textiles

🥿 7. Furlane Slippers

  • Why buy: Traditional velvet slippers once worn by gondoliers, now a stylish and comfortable souvenir.
  • Style tip: They come in many colors and are eco-friendly

🍷 8. Local Food & Drink

  • Great options:
    • Baicoli biscuits – traditional Venetian cookies.
    • Venetian wine – especially from the Veneto region
    • Olive oil, balsamic vinegar, or truffle products – gourmet gifts

🪞 9. Venetian Mirrors

  • Why buy: Elegant and ornate, often made with Murano glass and hand-etched designs.
  • Note: These are more expensive and fragile but make stunning home décor pieces

🧸 10. Wooden Toys & Marionettes

  • Why buy: Hand-carved toys and puppets are whimsical and rooted in Venetian theater traditions.
  • Perfect for: Unique gifts for children or collectors
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