VENICE TRAVEL TIPS FOR FIRST TIMERS | 50 Must-Knows Before Visiting Venice + What NOT to Do!

Summary

In this Venice travel guide, the creator shares essential tips to navigate the city like a local. From avoiding overpriced tourist traps in St. Mark's Square to savoring authentic Venetian cuisine, such as Cicchetti and Bigoli, the video emphasizes maximizing the Venice experience without overspending. Practical advice includes the importance of carrying coins for public toilets, staying vigilant against pickpockets, and avoiding swimming in the canals. The guide also highlights the charm of lesser-known islands like Burano and Murano, making this a must-watch for anyone planning a trip to Venice.

Takeaways

• 😀 Avoid dining in St Mark's Square to avoid overpriced, mediocre food. Consider just having a drink or coffee to soak up the view.
• 😀 Steer clear of restaurants near tourist hotspots as they tend to cater to tourists and overcharge for poor-quality food.
• 😀 Always check if prices are listed on the menu to avoid surprises, especially with seafood charged by weight.
• 😀 Try local Venetian cuisine like Cicchetti (small bite-sized dishes), which are perfect for sampling various flavors.
• 😀 Woodfire pizza ovens are banned in Venice, so pizza is not a main part of the local cuisine. Opt for traditional Venetian dishes instead.
• 😀 Risotto is a staple in Venice, and a popular variation is Risi e Bisi (rice and peas).
• 😀 Polenta is another key Venetian dish, often paired with small lagoon shrimp or liver.
• 😀 Bigoli, a Venetian pasta, is often served with a fish and onion sauce, a must-try if you're craving pasta.
• 😀 Stay hydrated by bringing a refillable water bottle, as Venice has free drinking fountains around the city.
• 😀 Be prepared to pay for public toilets, which can cost up to €1.50. Always carry coins just in case.
• 😀 Beware of pickpockets, especially in crowded tourist areas. Keep an eye on your belongings and avoid getting too close to strangers.
• 😀 Never swim in the canals or dip your toes in the water—it's highly polluted, and you could face fines for doing so.
• 😀 When shopping for souvenirs, look for authentic artisan shops rather than generic, mass-produced items sold in touristy areas.
• 😀 Consider a day trip to islands in the Venetian Lagoon, like Burano (Rainbow Island) and Murano (famous for glassmaking).

Q & A

Why should you avoid dining in St. Mark's Square?

Restaurants in St. Mark's Square are known for overcharging tourists for mediocre food. The high prices are mainly for the view rather than the quality of the food, and these places typically have poor reviews.

What is a better alternative to dining near major tourist spots in Venice?

It's better to dine away from the main touristy areas, as restaurants in these zones tend to cater to tourists and offer lower-quality food at inflated prices. Look for places where locals eat for a more authentic experience.

What should you check before sitting down at a Venetian restaurant?

Always check if the restaurant has its prices listed on the menu. Some places might charge by weight for seafood, leaving you with an unpredictable final bill if you're not aware of it.

What is Cicchetti, and why is it recommended in Venice?

Cicchetti are small, bite-sized dishes served with toothpicks, usually costing 1-3 euros each. They are perfect for sampling a variety of local flavors, and you can often find them at traditional Venetian taverns called Bacari.

What are some traditional Venetian dishes to try instead of pizza and pasta?

Instead of pizza and pasta, try dishes like Sarde in Saor (fried sardines with vinegar and onions), Risi e Bisi (a soupy risotto with rice and peas), and Polenta paired with shrimp or liver. Bigoli pasta with fish and onion sauce is also a local favorite.

What is the importance of carrying a refillable water bottle in Venice?

Venice has many free, drinkable water fountains, so carrying a refillable water bottle can save money and reduce plastic waste, making it a convenient and eco-friendly option.

What should you expect when using public toilets in Venice?

Public toilets in Venice often cost up to €1.50 to use, so it's a good idea to carry coins with you. It's recommended to take care of your bathroom needs when you have easy access to a toilet at hotels, restaurants, or museums.

Why is it crucial to beware of pickpockets in Venice?

Venice attracts many tourists, which makes it a hotspot for pickpockets, especially in busy areas. Always keep a close eye on your belongings and maintain a safe distance from strangers to avoid being targeted.

Why is swimming in the canals prohibited in Venice?

Swimming in Venice's canals is prohibited because the water is highly polluted, filled with sewage. Additionally, it is a fineable offense, and violators can face hefty fines if caught.

What are some recommendations for shopping in Venice?

When shopping, try to find local artisan shops rather than typical tourist souvenir stores. Many souvenir shops near major attractions sell mass-produced items, so seek out unique, handmade goods from real artisans for a more authentic experience.