Hey traveller! If you’re about to visit the amazing Venice, you’re probably wondering: how to behave in Venice? The rules of conduct in Venice is important.
This city suspended between water and land has rules of conduct that every tourist should know to respect the locals and enjoy the most the experience.
So, let’s put all the rules of conduct in Venice in order and discover how to make your stay truly unforgettable, without making a fool of yourself!
Rules of conduct in Venice: How to behave in Venice
Venice is not a city like all others. Although it’s amazing and full of history, the Serenissima has its own character that deserves respect. Its inhabitants have learned to live with mass tourism, but there are some basic rules to behave properly in Venice and live the city to the fullest.
1. Don’t shout in the street
Venice is a fragile city, where every corner is full of history and culture. Although tourist traffic is often intense, remember that Venetians prefer a quiet environment. It’s not the place to shout or make noise. When you walk through the narrow streets, be aware that sounds echo easily between the buildings, disturbing not only the residents but also the atmosphere of the place.
2. Don’t take pictures everywhere
While on one hand photography is a great way to keep memories, in Venice you should be careful where you take pictures. In many public areas, especially inside churches or monuments, it’s not allowed to take pictures. Before pulling out the camera, always check the signs and if you’re not sure, ask the locals. Also, avoid taking pictures in an invasive way, especially to people who might not feel comfortable.
3. Don’t eat or drink standing up in public places
Venice is famous for its food, but eating on the street has unwritten rules. It’s not allowed to eat sandwiches or drink standing up in crowded areas, like St. Mark’s Square or near the main tourist attractions. Enjoy your meal in one of the many restaurants or cafes where you can sit down. Not only will you give yourself a moment of relaxation, but you’ll also respect the Venetian tradition.
What not to do in Venice
If there are behaviors that are not allowed in Venice, it’s essential to know them before you go. This way you’ll avoid awkward situations and help preserve the city’s harmony.
1. Don’t swim in the canals
Although the canals of Venice might look inviting, it’s not allowed to swim. These waterways are the lifeblood of the city, but they’re not pools. The water in the canals is dirty and not suitable for bathing. Moreover, getting in the water can be dangerous and in some cases, it’s even punishable by fine.
2. Don’t feed the pigeons
Venice is famous for its pigeons, but don’t feed wild animals. Apart from the fact that it might harm the ecosystem, pigeons are a real plague for the monuments since their droppings damage the delicate surfaces. The local authorities are very severe with those who feed the pigeons and you might get a heavy fine.
3. Don’t buy from street vendors
Street vendors are a growing problem in Venice. They often sell low quality souvenirs, like fake bags and sunglasses. Not only are these sales illegal, but they also harm the local economy. Avoid buying from these vendors to not get into legal trouble and to support local businesses.
Venice rules for tourists
As a tourist, it’s important to know the rules of behavior in Venice, especially in tourist areas like St. Mark’s Square or Rialto Bridge.
Here are the most important ones:
1. Respect nature and environment
Venice is a fragile city, built on a series of islands. Environment protection is a major goal for the local authorities. Don’t litter and respect the surroundings. Don’t throw bottles or other trash in the canals and always use the available bins.
2. Be aware of water traffic
Vaporetti (the water buses) and gondolas are the main means of transportation in the city. If you decide to use these transports, remember they’re not only for tourists. Locals move through the canals and their speed and route can be affected by the heavy traffic. Try not to block the narrowest paths.
3. Dress appropriately
If you plan to visit religious places, like St. Mark’s Basilica, make sure to dress appropriately. Churches require decent clothing, so no short tops, shorts or revealing clothes. A modest dress will allow you to enter all sacred places without any issues.
How to behave in Venice?
Here are some practical tips to behave in Venice.
1. Respect the city’s pace
Venice has a different pace of life than other tourist cities. Venetians are used to a slow flow of people and a relaxed atmosphere. Don’t hurry, take your time to enjoy every corner and every view. And if you can, take a break from it all: sit on a bench and watch the city.
2. Use public transportation correctly
Vaporetti are the main means of transportation in the city. However, if you decide to take one of these, try not to occupy more than one space. Respect the people standing, especially in the most crowded ones.
Do and don’ts in Venice, Italy?
Now let’s talk about some simple do’s and don’ts to not make a fool of yourself in Venice.
1. Do: Respect others’ privacy
In Venice, many people live in the historic neighborhoods. Many locals have windows or balconies that overlook the streets. Be discreet when walking, especially when you’re near open windows. Don’t intrude on someone’s personal space who lives in the city.
2. Don’t: Use the electric scooter
Since a few years, the use of electric scooters is forbidden in some areas of Venice because they can be dangerous. So if you were thinking of renting one of these vehicles, better forget about it.
What are the new rules for Venice visitors?
The Venice authorities have recently introduced new rules to manage the tourist flow and protect the city. These include the ban on big bags and backpacks in some areas and the introduction of an entrance ticket for some parts of the city from 2024. These measures are meant to reduce overcrowding and protect the historical monuments.
What to watch out for in Venice?
Venice is an amazing city, but like all popular tourist destinations, there are some things to be aware of.
1. Avoid tourist traps
Unfortunately, there are tourist traps in the city, like restaurants that offer mediocre food at exorbitant prices. Be careful also of street vendors that sell low quality products at high prices.
2. Mind your pockets
As in many tourist cities, street thieves are a concern. Be aware of your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
What makes life hard for locals in Venice?
Living in Venice is hard. The city is constantly flooded with tourists, vaporetto traffic and high tide. The echoes of tourists, the noise and the increasing difficulty to find an affordable accommodation are just some of the problems Venetians face every day.
Can you drink in public in Venice?
Short answer is no, you can’t drink in public in some areas of Venice, especially near monuments or in squares like St. Mark’s Square. If you want to enjoy a glass of wine or a drink, do it in one of the many bars or restaurants of the city that offer a stunning view while you sip your drink.
How to visit Venice
The best way to visit Venice is definitely on foot. The city is small and all its beauty can be explored on foot. Avoid taxis or buses, but treat yourself to the pleasure of walking through its charming streets, bridges and canals.
Here are some must do:
- Get lost in the non touristy streets.
- Jump on a gondola or a vaporetto to explore the city from the water.
- Visit museums and churches, but don’t rush.
Have a good trip to Venice! Respect its rules and you’ll have an experience you’ll never forget.
How to behave in Venice: Rules of conduct in Venice by the Comune
If you want to have an authentic and respectful experience in Venice, it’s essential to follow the good practices for responsible tourist shared by the Comune of Venice. These guidelines will help you to explore the city in a conscious way, protecting the environment and respecting local traditions.
Here’s what to do to behave in Venice and enjoy your stay:
1. Discover the hidden gems
Don’t follow the tourist trails! Venice has so much more to offer if you venture into the less crowded areas. Walk through the lesser known streets and get surprised by the beauty of the less busy quarters. These hidden corners will give you a whole new perspective on the city!
2. Explore the lagoon and the mainland
Don’t just visit the city of Venice! Explore the islands of the lagoon and discover the Venice of the mainland, an experience that will give you a whole new perspective on the city. And why not attend local events that take place all over the Metropolitan City? Venice is a world to live in all its facets.
3. Taste the Venetian cuisine
One of the best things about Venice is its cuisine! Try the local dishes and products. Having a fish risotto or a cicchetto in a traditional osteria is a must. But avoid the touristy places and look for restaurants that serve authentic dishes and fresh ingredients.
4. Support local craftsmanship
In Venice, the artisan shops are a real tradition. Visit the workshops of the artisans who still work with ancient techniques. Buy only original products and don’t get tempted by the street vendors who sell fake items. Support Venetian craftsmanship!
5. Trust local guides
To really understand the thousand-year history of Venice, book a guided tour with licensed guides and tour leaders. They will show you not only the famous monuments but also the small details that make this city unique. Local guides are the key to get in tune with the city!
6. Walk on the right and respect the space
When you walk through the streets or cross the bridges, remember to walk on the right to not block the way. Also, avoid standing on the bridges or chatting in the crowded areas. In the city no bikes are allowed, so don’t even bring them along.
7. Don’t have a picnic in historic areas
Monuments, churches and bridges are historic and cultural landmarks and not suitable for picnics. If you need a break, look for public gardens where you can relax. Venice has spaces for every moment of rest!
8. Respect St. Mark’s Square
St. Mark’s Square is the heart of Venice, but it’s also a protected monument. You are not allowed to eat or drink outside the designated areas. Respect the rules and enjoy the square without ruining the atmosphere!
9. Don’t take a bath in the canals
Venice is famous for its canals, but you can’t swim. The city is a work of art, not a pool. If you want to take a dip, the Lido and Pellestrina are the perfect destinations for a day of sun and sea.
10. Respect the environment and the art
Venice is an art city and must be treated with respect. Don’t litter, don’t graffiti the monuments and above all, don’t feed the pigeons. Every small gesture of care helps to keep Venice a beautiful and preserved place.
11. If you stay in an apartment, do the separate collection
If you choose to stay in an apartment, don’t forget to do the separate collection of the waste. The city is very environmentally conscious and you can help by following these ecological good practices.
12. Plan your visit
Finally, if you can, try to visit Venice during the less crowded periods. The city is much more enjoyable when it’s not invaded by thousands of tourists. Also, check the days when the daily entrance fee for visitors is applied. This will allow you to live a more peaceful and sustainable Venice.
How to respect Venice: Top tips for tourists!
Are you ready to get to know Venice? Before you go out and discover its wonders, you need to know the rules to follow in Venice to have the best time and not to annoy the locals and the environment. Venice is a lovely destination but it has some rules to follow if you don’t want to get fined and disrupt the city’s balance. So, let’s get started and see how to behave while walking the streets and visiting the landmarks!
Our tips from Venice Insider Guide
Here tips from Venice Insider Guide:
1. Respect the public spaces
When visiting major tourist areas like St. Mark’s Square or Rialto Bridge, remember that Venice’s public areas are not just for tourists – they’re public spaces where locals live their daily life. Walking through the streets of Venice is a pleasure, but don’t block the walkways or crowd the narrow passages. Also, don’t sit on the monuments or use the public benches to eat, as this can be considered impolite to the locals and the historical environment.
2. Keep the City clean
Street vendors are illegal and they sell goods from illegal sources. Not only it hurts the economy of Venice but buying from them also contributes to over tourism. Be aware of what you buy and avoid the street hawkers near public transport hubs or Grand Canal. But the most important thing you can do is not to litter. Whether you are near the canals or walking around San Marco, always use the trash bins and recycle when possible.
3. No swimsuit in public spaces
Venice is a city with a lot of history so swimming in its canals or walking around in swimsuit is definitely not allowed. Swimming in Venice’s public spaces will get you fined and it will disrupt the beauty of this wonderful city. The only places to swim in Venice are the beaches of Lido or Pellestrina. And please, don’t be the tourist walking around topless in public spaces. Be respectful!
4. Don’t attach love locks
One of the biggest no-no is attaching padlocks on the bridges in Venice. These “love locks” are not only illegal but they also damage the historic bridges and monuments, leaving behind graffiti and stains. So if you’re visiting with your partner, find a romantic way to celebrate your love without over tourism or ruining the city. Trust me, Venice is full of love – no need for locks.
5. Be aware of the crowds and high tide
Venice’s canals and monuments like St. Mark’s Square are always crowded, especially in summer. With the high tide (acqua alta) some areas will be even flooded and walking will be tricky. While crowds are to be expected in a popular tourist destination, you can avoid some of the busiest moments by planning your trip during off-peak hours. Try to visit the city early in the morning or in the evening when the crowds are smaller.
6. Respect the locals and their privacy
Unlike other European cities, Venice’s residents live in a fragile coexistence with tourists. Remember to be aware of the local behavior and always respect their privacy. They love the quiet life amidst the chaos of tourism so avoid shouting or making noise. Respecting their space, especially when they are walking or sitting in public areas is key to being a good tourist.
7. Follow the new rules for Venice visitors
Due to the growing pressure of tourism, new rules have been implemented to control the flow of visitors and preserve the city. Among these are rules prohibiting to eat or drink in certain areas, especially near monuments or in high traffic zones like St. Mark’s Square. The police is cracking down on anyone who violates these rules – so be accountable and follow the rules.
8. Don’t feed the pigeons
It’s tempting to feed the pigeons near St. Mark’s but pigeons can be a mess, especially with their droppings on monuments. Not only is feeding them forbidden but it also contributes to a hygiene issue in public areas of the city. Keep your food to yourself and enjoy your lunch at one of the many restaurants without attracting a flock of birds!
9. Use public transport responsibly
When taking a vaporetto or other public transport in Venice, don’t block the aisles or take too much space. Keep your bags and belongings close, especially during peak hours when the passengers are packed in. Remember, Venice’s public transport is limited and overcrowding will inconvenience both locals and tourists.
10. Explore the hidden Venice
Venice has so much more to offer than the main tourist attractions. While Rialto Bridge and St. Mark’s are must see landmarks, don’t forget to explore the hidden gems in less crowded areas. Discover secret gardens, small cafes and charming shops. You’ll see a Venice that most tourists don’t and you’ll do it responsibly.
Conclusion
Visiting Venice is a magical experience but it’s up to you to keep the city’s balance intact. Follow the rules of Venice, respect the residents and enjoy the culture without disrupting the beauty of this city.
From avoiding street vendors to keeping the canals free of trash, every small action counts. So get ready to explore but remember to be a good tourist and leave Venice as you found it. Safe travels.