Venice Travel Tips
Venice, Italy, is a unique and historic city known for its intricate canal system, rich cultural heritage, and stunning architecture.
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting to Venice by Car
Drive to Mestre
Mestre is the closest mainland city to Venice and is well-connected by road. Major highways like the A4 and A27 lead to Mestre.
Cross the Bridge to Venice
From Mestre, drive across the Ponte della Libertà (Bridge of Liberty). This is the only road bridge connecting the mainland to Venice. The bridge is about 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) long.
Park in Venice
Since Venice itself is car-free, you’ll need to park your car in one of the designated parking areas at the end of the Ponte della Libertà. Popular options include:
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- Piazzale Roma: This is the main parking area and the closest you can get to the historic center by car. Parking costs around €45 per day and is exclusively for cars, not for buses or campers. From here, you can walk to the center in less than 30 minutes or take the water bus.
- Tronchetto Parking Garage: Located on an artificial island to the west of Piazzale Roma, it’s a large, multi-story parking facility. The cost is cheaper than Piazzale Roma, and you can park vans, campers, or even buses here. You can take the water bus from Tronchetto to get to the center.
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Transfer to Venice Proper
From Piazzale Roma or Tronchetto, you can reach Venice’s historic center by:
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- Walking: It’s a short walk from Piazzale Roma.
- Vaporetto (Water Bus): Regular services run from both Piazzale Roma and Tronchetto to various points in Venice.
- People Mover: A short monorail that connects Tronchetto with Piazzale Roma and the cruise terminal.
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OR
Leave your car at Mestre
Alternatively, for a cheaper option (most parking is below €10), you can leave your car in Mestre and take a bus, train, or tram to Piazzale Roma (a 10-minute ride). From Piazzale Roma, you can continue to the center by walking or taking a water bus.
Fun Facts about Venice
No Roads, Just Bridges and Canals – Venice is made up of 118 islands connected by 177 canals and 417 bridges, with no cars or buses! Of these bridges, 72 are private.
The Gondola Tradition – Gondolas have been used for over 1,000 years, and there are about 400 gondolas in the city today.
The First Carnival – Venice’s famous Carnival dates back to the 11th century, known for its elaborate masks and festivities.
Famous for Glass – The nearby Murano Island is renowned for its glassmaking and has been crafting glass for over 700 years.
Floating City – Venice is built on wooden foundations, and it’s slowly sinking due to rising water levels and settling wood piles.
Unique Bridges – The Rialto Bridge is one of the oldest and most iconic in the city, dating back to the 16th century.
St. Mark’s Square – The square was once the city’s marketplace, and it can flood during high tides, turning into a temporary “water square.”
Shrinking Population – Venice’s population has dropped from 120,000 to 60,000 in the last 50 years. Experts predict that by 2030, Venice may become a ghost town, with only tourists visiting during the day.
If you haven’t explored Venice yet, now’s the perfect time!
How Much Time Do You Need?
If you’re short on time, don’t worry—you can still soak in Venice’s charm in just one day! Focus on the main highlights like St. Mark’s Square, Doge’s Palace, and the iconic Rialto Bridge.
Take a leisurely stroll through the winding streets and charming canals, and if you have time, hop on a gondola or vaporetto for a scenic water tour.
Don’t forget to stop at a local café or restaurant to taste some authentic Venetian cuisine. It’s the perfect way to get a feel for the city, even if you’re just passing through!
Main Attractions in Venice
St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco)
St. Mark’s Basilica: A stunning example of Byzantine architecture, adorned with intricate mosaics and artworks.
Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale): This grand palace was once the residence of the Doge of Venice and is a masterpiece of Venetian Gothic architecture.
Campanile di San Marco: The bell tower of St. Mark’s Basilica offers panoramic views of Venice and its lagoon.
Grand Canal
Rialto Bridge: One of the most famous bridges in Venice, offering picturesque views of the Grand Canal and bustling activity.
Vaporetto Ride: Take a water bus ride along the Grand Canal to admire the elegant palaces and historic buildings lining its shores.
Venetian Islands
Murano: Known for its centuries-old tradition of glassmaking, Murano is home to glass factories and studios where you can witness skilled artisans at work.
Burano: Famous for its colorful fishermen’s houses and intricate lace-making tradition, Burano is a photographer’s paradise.
Torcello: The oldest inhabited island in the Venetian Lagoon, Torcello is home to historic churches and tranquil natural landscapes.
Venice’s Entry Fee 2025
Venice has introduced a tourist entry fee to manage visitor numbers and protect the city’s delicate infrastructure. Here’s what you need to know for 2025:
Fee Details:
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Amount: €5 per person per day if paid at least four days before your visit.
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Late Payment: If you book less than four days in advance, the fee increases to €10.
Implementation Dates:
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Period: The fee will be in effect from April 18 to July 27, 2025, covering 54 days.
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Hours: Applicable between 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. on specified days.
Exemptions:
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Accommodation Bookings: Visitors with a lodging reservation in Venice are exempt from the fee.
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Residents and Certain Groups: Residents, students, workers, property owners, and children under 14 are also exempt.
Payment Process:
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How to Pay: Submit your payment through the official website: https://cda.ve.it/en/.
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Proof: After payment, you’ll receive a QR code to present upon arrival.
Purpose:
- This measure aims to reduce overcrowding and preserve Venice’s cultural and historical heritage.
Where To Stay in Venice
Hotel Antiche Figure
Located along the Grand Canal, this charming hotel offers classic Venetian décor and great views. It’s perfect for travelers who want to stay close to Santa Lucia train station and enjoy the traditional Venetian experience without the high price tag. BOOK HERE
Ca’ Sagredo Hotel
For a more luxurious stay, Ca’ Sagredo is a historic palace right on the Grand Canal. It’s part museum, with art and sculptures everywhere. If you’re looking for a mix of history and elegance, this is your spot. BOOK HERE
Hotel Moresco
A boutique hotel with a modern touch, Hotel Moresco offers stylish rooms and a cozy atmosphere. It’s tucked away in a quieter part of the city, making it perfect for a peaceful retreat, yet still walking distance to all major attractions. BOOK HERE
WHEN YOU PURCHASE THROUGH OUR LINKS, YOU SUPPORT US AT NO EXTRA COST – THANK YOU SO MUCH!
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This is so beautifully written! Europe truly has an unmatched charm, and your love for it shines through. I’m actually planning a trip there myself, and your words make me even more excited to explore its history, culture, and hidden gems! 😊
Thank you! Really apprecite this. Where in Europe?
This is a lovely article about Venice. I visited 2 years ago, from train from Rome. It was so much fun. You shared so many great tips and I find them helpful. Thanks for sharing!
Thank you! Its such a lovely place to see and experience at least once!