Venice is one of those cities that almost feels unreal—the canals, the bridges, the history dripping from every corner. The people of Venice are wise, welcoming, and accustomed to travelers from all over the world. In many ways, the city is a floating cultural melting pot. But like any city that’s uniquely Venetian, there are a few insider tips that can make your trip smoother, more enjoyable, and way less stressful. Here’s what I’ve learned from my visits.
1️⃣ STAY IN A NEARBY CITY AND TAKE THE TRAIN INTO VENICE
On one of our trips, my husband and I spent three nights in Padova and took the train into Venice for a day. The Frecciarossa high-speed train is only about 30 minutes and costs roughly 40 Euros per premium business-class ticket.
Why this works: Venice is not exactly luggage-friendly. Between the countless bridges, stairs, and narrow alleys, dragging suitcases through the city—especially in summer heat—would have been exhausting. Staying in a nearby city gives you the best of both worlds: access to Venice without the daily logistical headaches, plus a quieter base to relax at night.
2️⃣ ONE DAY IS OFTEN ENOUGH FOR A FIRST VISIT
If it’s your first trip, don’t overbook yourself. Venice is small but dense with things to see, so one well-planned day can hit all the highlights: Piazza San Marco, Doge’s Palace, Rialto Bridge, and a gondola or traghetto ride across the Grand Canal.
For longer stays, you’ll want to explore the less touristy neighborhoods like Dorsoduro or Cannaregio. Here, you’ll find quiet canals, cozy cafes, and artisanal shops that give you a true sense of Venetian life—without the selfie sticks.
3️⃣ Eat before you go—and choose wisely
We learned the hard way: do not rely on the tourist-heavy restaurants right around major landmarks. Many are Americanized, and the quality can be surprisingly underwhelming. On one outing, we tried what was supposed to be Venetian cuisine—my pasta with scallops turned into a lesson in overcooking. I have never chewed scallops that long in my life.
Pro tip: grab breakfast or a snack before heading out, and save your real meals for smaller, less crowded trattorias off the beaten path. A well-timed lunch in a hidden corner can be a magical (and delicious) Venice experience.
My husband and I made the mistake of not eating before we went. The “Italian” restaurants/cafes are very Americanized due to the high volume in tourists so the quality of food isn’t the best. During our trip, we decided to try Venetian cuisine. Big mistake! My pasta with scallops was way too over cooked. I never had chewer scallops in my life.
4️⃣ If it’s a full moon, bring rain boots
Venice is beautiful, yes—but it’s also very much at the mercy of the tides. During high tide, certain streets can flood, and the water can creep right up to doorways. Full moon? The tide gets even more unpredictable.
Save yourself some frustration: pack lightweight rain boots or waterproof shoes. You’ll thank me when you’re wading through a charming, glittering square without ruining your shoes—or your mood.
5️⃣ Brace yourself for the crowds
Venice is a hot ticket, and there are massive amounts of tourists flooding the city daily. Certain areas—like Piazza San Marco or the Rialto Bridge—can be shoulder-to-shoulder chaos.
Here’s the thing: it’s worth it. Venice is still magical despite the crowds. The trick is to start early, wander off the main path when you can, and embrace the energy rather than fight it. Sometimes, getting lost in the alleys is when the city feels most like itself.
Venice is unforgettable. From hopping the train out of Padova to navigating canals, tasting local delicacies, and dodging the high tides, even a short trip can leave you with a lifetime of memories. Follow these tips, pack smart, and let Venice do its charming, chaotic magic.
Pro tip: Bring cash for small purchases—many markets and cafes don’t take cards.
TRIPPY TULIP 