There are but a few towns as famous and captivating as Venice, Italy. Unique, romantic, architecturally beautiful, and a pleasure to explore, the city attracts millions of wide-eyed visitors from across the planet every year. Moreover, much like the world’s most popular destinations, it too has an eccentrically distinctive character. For tourists wishing to experience the peculiar side of the city, it’s best to take an unorthodox approach and learn about the things not to do in Venice.
But before having the chance to wander around Venice’s treasure-filled narrow streets and get lost in its dreamy ambiance, one needs to reach the city. While accessible by air and road, there is no better way to arrive at “the floating city” than by boat.
Ferryscanner offers ferry tickets to Venice from Corfu, Patra, and Igoumenitsa in Greece. These comfortable trans-Adriatic voyages are convenient, exceptionally joyful, and kick off your Venetian vacation in style.
Swim in the Canals
As inviting as the canals might seem, one of the main things not to do in Venice is swim in the water. Now, there are a few bona fide reasons for this. Firstly, Venetians use the canal system partly for sewage disposal. So, even a quick dip in the water can result in serious medical issues.
Secondly, the canals in Venice are equivalent to roads in any other city. Due to heavy boat traffic, including fast traveling motorboats, an unexpected swimmer can easily cause a fatal accident. Lastly, you do not want to swim in the canals because it is illegal. If caught, and you most probably will be, the fine is in excess of €500.
Stay Only on the Main Island
In case your itinerary grants you only one day in Venice, then yes, it’s worth spending all your time sauntering through its many streets. But, if you have an extra day available, make sure you take a boat ride to the surrounding islands of the city.
Murano and Burano are both world-famous. The former is the Italian hub for glass making, and tourists can take tours of glass factories here. Burano’s lace is as popular as its multi-colored houses that make for an unmissable photo-op.
On the other hand, Torcello and San Michelle are quieter islands without many tourist attractions. They are an idyllic respite when wishing to step away from a crowded Venice.
Carry a Map
Digital or paper, maps are totally unnecessary in Venice. You can cover the entire city in about an hour, so the chances of getting lost are pretty slim. Moreover, due to reasons like flooding, authorities often close streets and alleys unexpectedly.
To truly experience Venice, allow the city to encapsulate you with its peculiarities. When walking around without a destination in mind, you’re more likely to discover the city’s many architectural intricacies and quaint corners that most tourists often miss out on. And if you do happen to get lost, ask any local for directions, and they will happily guide you to your destination.
Share a Gondola Ride
Several city guides will tell you to skip a gondola ride in Venice altogether. They’ll say that this one-time embodiment of romance has become commercialized and is way too expensive. The latter is undoubtedly true, with a half-hour gondola ride starting at €80. More if you ask the gondolier to sing.
Still, the art of gondola making and rowing is dying, and the only way to preserve it is to indulge in it. So, we wholeheartedly want you to spend a little extra dough on a ride. However, one of the things not to do in Venice is share a gondola. Many tourists pool in with random couples to reduce the per-head cost of a tour. While cunning, it kills the amorous vibe of the entire experience.
Visit During the Summers
Overtourism is a debilitating issue in Venice. More than 100,000 visitors arrive in the city during peak summer months per day. Consequently, Venice becomes claustrophobic, a place where everyone seems on edge, frustrated by the crowds, long lines, and delays. Not to forget, everything costs more.
Thus, try and avoid visiting Venice from June to August. Moreover, around this time, the humidity in the air makes the smell of the canals a little less favorable.
Instead, plan an off-peak season trip. Venice is a beauty in spring, fall, and even winter. There are hardly any tourists at this time, and you can also find excellent hotel room bargains.
Bank on a Hearty Breakfast
Several of us grew up believing that “breakfast is the most important meal of the day.” Venetians think a little differently. Locals typically start their day with coffee, a brioche, and some fruits. As a result, a conventional breakfast is frequently hard to find.
Moreover, while cafes open up in the morning, restaurants do not start serving till an hour before noon. When planning your day, keep this in mind. Use the mornings to do some sightseeing followed by a laidback brunch or lunch later in the day.
Buy Cheap Souvenirs
A visit to the “city of canals” isn’t complete without buying unique mementos to take home. Some of the must-buy souvenirs from Venice are Murano glassware, masks, handmade shoes, antique-style brass doorknockers, and the traditional gondolier’s hat.
But before indulging in retail therapy, remember that among the things not to do in Venice is buying cheap souvenirs. Unfortunately, plenty of knock-offs and abroad-made cheap souvenirs are available throughout the city. While they might seem like an excellent bargain, these fake souvenirs lack authenticity and are of poor quality.
Avoid Venice’s Walking Rules
The “Queen of the Adriatic” has its own set of unspoken walking rules. Not following them is one of the things not to do in Venice. For instance, to keep the movement smooth and orderly, always walk on the right side of the street. Furthermore, the entire center of the city is pedestrian-only, which means no riding bicycles. In fact, you cannot even carry a bike through Venice.
A slightly more problematic issue is that of stopping on bridges or streets. Smitten by the surroundings, everyone wishes to linger and look around. Unfortunately, this again leads to crowding and is thus not looked upon favorably.
If you want to take a break while walking in Venice, look for the city’s trademark red benches. Located all around, these are perfect for a short sit-down.
Forget to Carry Cash
Managing Venice without cash, surprisingly, can prove to be a little problematic. Many larger retail stores, hotels, and big restaurants accept cards. However, several smaller homegrown establishments do not. Additionally, you’ll need small change to use the public bathrooms or leave a tip at cafes.
Skip the Local Eateries
When we talk about things not to do in Venice, skipping the local eateries is a gastronomic sin you do not want to commit. Restaurants that primarily serve tourists are good, no doubt. But to savor the authentic charm of a Venetian meal, make your way to where the residents eat. And while you’re at it, remember to order the fish dishes over, say a pizza. After all, Venice is famous for its seafood, from risotto in cuttlefish ink to sardines prepared in different ways.
Our top recommendation of local eateries in Venice includes Caffe del Doge near Rialto Bridge for the best coffee in town. Caffe Florian in St Mark’s Square is expensive, especially if you want table service. Still, it’s iconic for a good reason.
For proper food, there’s Bar All’Arco, a tiny establishment that serves delicious cichetti – Venetian tapas. The canalside Ristorante Al Vagon is another gorgeous place for a romantic meal. Else, try Trattoria Antiche Carampane, a genuine hidden gem of Venice. Located near Campo San Polo, the 40-year-old eatery only uses fresh ingredients to prepare classic Venetian recipes. Order the mullet in red wine, tagliatelle with spider crab sauce, deep-fried shrimps and calamari, and Venetian-style cuttlefish for an unforgettable meal.