Vaporetto Pass: Venice Public Transport Ticket (ACTV)

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Tips for Visiting Venice

• Avoid Peak Tourist Times: Venice can get very crowded, especially during the summer and major events like the Carnival. If you can visit during the shoulder seasons (April–May or September–October) you will likely find smaller crowds and still pleasant weather. Early mornings and evenings are also great for exploring quieter streets.
• Pack Comfortable Shoes: Venice is a walking city with cobblestone streets and bridges. Comfortable shoes are essential, as you’ll likely cover a lot of ground exploring its winding alleys and scenic spots!
• Plan for Water Transportation: Get familiar with the vaporetto (water bus) system, as it’s the main way to get around in Venice besides walking. Our Vaporetto Pass which gives you access to the public transport in the city can be useful if you’ll be using it frequently. For a romantic experience, splurge on a gondola ride, but we strongly suggest booking in advance as it is generally a lot cheaper.
• Stay Away from the Main Tourist Areas: While landmarks like St. Mark’s Square and the Rialto Bridge are must-sees, if you are happy to venture into lesser-known neighbourhoods like Cannaregio or Dorsoduro, you can escape the crowds and see more authentic Venetian life.
• Eat Like a Local: Avoid restaurants near major attractions. Instead, look for osterias and bacari (traditional wine bars) which will serve local specialties like cicchetti (Venetian tapas), fresh seafood, and risotto al nero di seppia (squid ink risotto). We also always suggest checking the menu with prices to avoid surprises!
• Learn a Few Italian Phrases: Even basic phrases like "Grazie" (Thank you) or "Per favore" (Please) can go a long way in showing respect and fostering friendly interactions. The locals also love it when you make the effort!
• Book Tickets in Advance: Popular attractions like the Doge’s Palace, St. Mark’s Basilica, and the Peggy Guggenheim Collection often have long lines. For this reason we always suggest booking tickets online in advance as it can save you time and hassle!
• Bring Essentials for the Weather: Venice can experience flooding (known as acqua alta) in late autumn and winter. It is common don’t worry, so don’t panic! Pack waterproof boots if travelling during this time. In summer, carry sunscreen, a hat, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
• ‍Respect the City: Venice is fragile, so follow local rules: Avoid feeding pigeons. Dispose of rubbish properly. Refrain from swimming or dipping feet in canals. Be mindful of noise, especially in residential areas.