Queen of the Adriatic…Insider Tips for Venice

Plan your next short break in Venice with some helpful tips brought to you by lowcostholidays.com.

Fresh fish and Risotto:

Venice is known around the world for its delicious cuisine although it is notorious for its high prices.

Excellent for sea food and north Italian cooking, lowcostholidays.com recommend you try the risotto, fish, pumpkin and asparagus on your city break.

Fish and meat dish prices can sometimes be displayed in weight, be careful not to get mixed up with the base price, the more meat you have the more you will pay.

Service charge is not included in the majority of eateries; therefor a complement of 10-15% of the bill is usually expected. Meal prices will vary enormously depending on what and where you eat, expect an average price of €20 for a pleasing meal.

To save money at lunch, eat lunch standing up, sitting down will usually double the price on the bill.

“Firewater”…

Take it easy if you try the famed Italian drink Veneto Grappa, it's almost pure alcohol. If drinking it straight is too strong for you, try a coffee with a dash of Grappa, a great morning pick me up or a nice way to finish a big meal.

How do I get around?

Venice is world famous for its canals. With the absence of cars, walking is an easy and pleasurable way to get around the city.

For a quicker and less exhausting option, the city’s water based public transport system is a unique way to see the sights. Vaporetto (an alternative word for water bus) is the best way to get around and is cheaper than a water taxi.

Single boat trip prices are quite high; maybe consider buying a weekly or daily pass to save a few euros. A single ticket is typically €6.50 while a day pass will cost you €18.

lowcostholidays recommend you take gondola ride for a unique experience Venice. The pricy journey will set you back a minimum fare of €80 for 40 minutes.

Nightlife:

Although the city is known for its opera houses and Vivaldi concerts, Venice nightlife is quiet and relaxed. Visitors should not expect a wild nightlife but, there are a number of beautiful bars and lounges ideal for a calming evening drink.

What to wear:

Comfortable shoes are a must as most of Venice can be seen by foot.

With temperatures reaching 28°C during the spring and summer months of July and August, we advise you to travel lightly. Sun dresses and skirts are ideal for women in the day time and casual t-shirts and shorts are great for men.

Make sure you dress appropriately if you intend on visiting some of the treasuries contained in the Churches of Venice. Beachwear, sleeveless tops and shorts are not allowed and skirts must come to the knee. Be aware, you might be asked to leave rucksacks and big bags at the entrance, simply for security reasons.

Money:

Try to avoid carrying large amounts of cash as there are numerous ATM’s in the city. The local currency is the euro and your best source of money is a "bancomat,"(Italian for ATM), the service charge will probably be the best deal you will get.

Make sure you contact your local bank before you travel; be aware that some banks may add transaction and service charges.

If possible take two ATM card for two different banks just in case one doesn’t work.

Shopper’s paradise:

Being a major fashion and shopping centre of Italy, Venice has a wide range of shopping opportunities. From shopping centres to classy boutiques, Venice has something for all buyers of different budgets.

You will find many of the top fashion boutiques located on the Rialto Bridge and the Piazza San Marco. Be prepared to do a bit of window shopping or credit card bashing as this is the home of flagship stores Louis Vuitton and Ermenegildo Zegna.

Most shops are open between 9am and 8pm so there is plenty of time to get spending.

Holiday snaps:

General holiday photos are more than acceptable but, look out for no camera signs in churches and museums, usually flash photography and filming will not be allowed inside these venues.

Water, water everywhere:

Venice will never be short of water; with the city trying to limit the amount of plastic bottle rubbish, there’s an abundance of fresh water drinking fountains in and around the city.

Do I need to learn Italian?

The locals do speak simple English but it’s always nice to learn a little of the language for your chosen destination. Get a cheap Venice phrase book and begin with the basics, sì?

Other useful information:

• Make sure you have a step-down power converter or transformer adapter plug to safely step the voltage down when you use your hair dryer or electrical appliances: the last thing you need on holiday is smoke and fire in your hotel room.
• A Venice transport pass will also include free access to public toilets.
• It costs €3 to use a Venetian public toilet so make sure you got some change available in case you need a leak.