The Ultimate Traveler’s Guide to Venice on a Budget

Renowned for its enchanting canals, serenading gondoliers, and labyrinthine alleys, Venice captures hearts as a premier romantic destination. It’s called ‘La Serenissima’ for a reason—but it’s also a magnet for avid cruisers and backpackers.

Despite its reputation for being pricey, largely due to the premium lodging and dining options in this cozy city with no real estate left to develop, there’s still a way to experience its magic without resorting to extravagance.

Here’s our Venice travel guide – all on a budget.

Venice, the “City of Canals,” offers a unique travel experience. Budget-conscious backpackers can get by comfortably, while luxury lovers can find extravagance around every corner.

Suggested Budget per person

• Low: €55-88
• Middle: €88-150
• High: €150+

Detailed Costs: Venice Travel Guide 

Accommodation:

• Low: Hostels or budget guesthouses: €32-55 per night
• Middle: Mid-range hotels or B&Bs: €90-150 per night
• High: Luxury hotels or upscale apartments: €180+ per night

Read: best hostels in Venice.

Public Transportation:

• Single Vaporetto ticket (valid for 75 minutes): €7.50
• 24-hour Travel Card: €20
• 72-hour Travel Card: €30

Entrance Fees:

• Low (mostly Free Activities): Campo Santa Margherita, Grand Canal, …
• Middle: Doge’s Palace: €25, Correr Museum: €20 (combo ticket available for multiple museums)
• High: Hard Rock Cafe Venice (with priority seating): €45+, La Fenice Opera House (tickets vary depending on performance)

Restaurants:

• Low: Pizza al taglio (slice of pizza): €2-3, Panino (Italian sandwich): €4-5
• Middle: Mid-range restaurants: €20-30 per meal
• High: High-end restaurants with a canal view: €50+ per meal

Popular Food Staple: Cicchetti (small savory bites similar to tapas):

• Low: €1-2 per piece
• Middle: €2-3 per piece
• High: €4+ per piece

Coffee:

• Low: Espresso at a local bar: €1-€2
• Middle: Cappuccino in a cafe: €2-€3
• High: Specialty coffee with views of St. Mark’s Square: €5+

Beer & Wine:

• Low: Local beer or wine at a local bar: €3-€4
• Middle: Glass of wine in a mid-range restaurant: €5-€7
• High: Craft beers or special vintage wines: €8+

Forget buzzy streets and honking taxis – here, charming canals weave through ancient buildings, and getting around often involves a gondola or a water bus. 

Things to do in Venice

1. Gondola Ride: Experience Venice like a VIP with a classic gondola ride. Drift down the Grand Canal and lagoon, admiring the stunning architecture and soaking in the romantic atmosphere.
2. St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco): The heart of Venice is a dazzling piazza flanked by St. Mark’s Basilica and its bell tower, a masterpiece of Byzantine art, and the Doge’s Palace, a former seat of power adorned with Doge’s Apartments and a notorious prison.
3. Rialto Bridge: This iconic bridge is the perfect spot for people-watching and capturing that quintessential Venetian photo.
4. Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute: This majestic church, nicknamed “The Church of Health,” offers stunning views of the city from its dome and a breathtaking interior.
5. Scala Contarini del Bovolo: This hidden gem is a winding, external staircase that snakes up a palazzo, offering a unique perspective of the city’s rooftops.
6. Peggy Guggenheim Collection: Art aficionados will love this modern and quirky museum showcasing works by Picasso, Dalí, and Pollock.
7. Hard Rock Cafe Venice: Yes, even Venice has a Hard Rock Cafe! Housed in a 17th-century palace, it’s a fun stop for music and memorabilia.
8. Carnival of Venice: If you’re lucky enough to visit during this world-famous festival, prepare to be dazzled by elaborate costumes, extravagant masks, and a truly magical atmosphere.
9. Santa Maria Formosa: This beautiful church in the heart of Venice boasts a fascinating history and a unique architectural blend of Renaissance and Baroque styles. Legend has it, that the name “Formosa” (“beautiful woman” in Italian) comes from a vision of the Virgin Mary. Inside, you’ll find stunning artwork, including a wooden crucifix by Donatello. 

Free things to do in Venice

1. Get Lost in the Labyrinthine Streets: Wander the charming canals and alleyways of Venice. You’ll stumble upon hidden squares, picturesque bridges, and maybe even a friendly local. We recommend starting with the San Polo area and slowly walking towards lesser known parts. 
2. Explore Cannaregio: This lesser-known district offers a glimpse into authentic Venetian life. Discover traditional shops, local markets, and a quieter pace.
3. Basilica San Zanipolo: This Gothic church houses the tombs of famous Venetians, including Titian and Tintoretto.
4. Campo Santa Margherita: This lively square is a popular hangout spot for students and locals. Grab a gelato, soak up the atmosphere, and people-watch.
5. Free Walking Tours: Learn about Venice’s rich history and hidden gems on a free walking tour. Remember to tip your guide if you enjoyed the experience!

Top Museums in Venice

1. Galleria dell’Accademia: This renowned museum houses masterpieces by Venetian masters like Titian, Tintoretto, and Veronese.
2. Palazzo Ducale (Doge’s Palace): Explore the opulent chambers and halls of this former seat of power, and don’t miss the chance to walk through the infamous Bridge of Sighs.
3. Museo Correr: Delve into Venetian history and art at this museum, showcasing the city’s evolution through paintings, sculptures, and everyday objects.
4. Scuola Grande di San Rocco: This opulent building boasts a breathtaking collection of Tintoretto’s paintings, offering a true artistic feast. 
5. Natural History Museum: Discover the wonders of the natural world, from dinosaur skeletons to local flora and fauna. 
6. The Fortresses: Explore the historic forts surrounding Venice, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the city’s defensive past.

Day Trips: Venice Travel Guide Itinerary

1. Burano and Murano: A two-island treat! Murano is renowned for its centuries-old glassblowing tradition. Watch artisans work their magic and buy a unique Venetian souvenir. Burano stuns with its rainbow-colored houses and intricate lacework. Take a vaporetto (water bus) for a scenic journey across the Lagoon. (Budget tip: Murano has some free glassblowing demonstrations you can find with a quick web search).
2. Torcello: Journey back in time to this ancient island, once a thriving Venetian center. Explore the fascinating ruins of the Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta and the Ponte del Diavolo (Devil’s Bridge). Enjoy the peace and quiet of this off-the-beaten-path gem. (Catch a vaporetto to Burano and then another onward to Torcello).
3. Padua (Padova): A 30-minute train ride whisks you to this beautiful city. Immerse yourself in art at the Scrovegni Chapel, marvel at the Giotto frescoes, and wander the lively university town. Don’t miss the jaw-dropping Basilica di Sant’Antonio (Saint Anthony). (Train tickets are very affordable, and some days offer free entry to the Scrovegni Chapel).
4. Verona: Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet” comes alive in this romantic city, just an hour away by train. Stroll past Juliet’s balcony, peek into the Verona Arena (a Roman amphitheater), and soak up the charming piazzas. Verona also boasts delicious local cuisine – perfect for a budget-friendly lunch. (Train tickets are affordable, and some days offer free or discounted entry to the Arena).
5. Treviso: Often overlooked, Treviso offers a delightful alternative. This charming town, encircled by Venetian walls, boasts canals, colorful houses, and a relaxed atmosphere. Explore the Duomo (cathedral) and Piazza dei Signori, and savor cicchetti (Venetian tapas) at a local osteria. (A short and inexpensive train ride from Venice).

Alright, let’s get real. Venice isn’t exactly a budget backpacker’s paradise. Staying right in the heart of the action, surrounded by gondolas and pigeons (yes, there are a lot of pigeons) will set you back a pretty penny. But with a little planning and an adventurous spirit, you can find a comfy (and affordable) place to rest your head.

The Splurge Zone:

• San Marco: Sure, staying in San Marco puts you right next to St. Mark’s Square, the Doge’s Palace, and basically every postcard-worthy sight in Venice. But be prepared to cough up some serious cash for the privilege. Imagine waking up and having your morning coffee overlooking the Grand Canal – beautiful, yes, but it might come with a side of sticker shock.

Read: best hostels in Venice.

Now onto the Good Stuff: Budget-Friendly Neighborhoods in Venice

Venice is a collection of islands, and each one has its own unique charm. So ditch the tourist crowds and explore these areas where you can find a more local vibe and easier on the wallet stays:

• Cannaregio: This quieter sestiere (district) is a labyrinth of narrow streets and hidden squares. Here, you’ll find authentic cicchetti bars (think tiny Venetian tapas) and traditional shops, minus the hoards of tourists. It’s perfect for those seeking a slice of local life, and the prices reflect that.
• Dorsoduro: Home to the Peggy Guggenheim Collection and the beautiful Ca’ Rezzonico palace, Dorsoduro offers a mix of culture and student life. You’ll find a younger, more energetic vibe here, with plenty of cozy cafes and bars to explore.
• Giudecca: Looking for a truly unique experience? Giudecca is an island across the canal from St. Mark’s Square, offering stunning views of the city skyline. It’s a haven for peace and quiet, with fewer crowds and a slower pace of life. Accommodation here tends to be a bit cheaper than on the main island, but keep in mind you’ll need to take a vaporetto (water bus) to get to the main attractions.
• Mestre: Alright, this one requires a bit more compromise. Mestre is a mainland town connected to Venice by a short and affordable train ride. While it doesn’t have the same romantic charm as the island itself, you’ll be rewarded with a wider selection of budget-friendly hotels, hostels, and Airbnbs. Think of it as your launching pad for exploring Venice by day and enjoying a more local (and cheaper) evening scene.

Forget the overpriced gondola rides and head straight for the real Venetian treasure: its mouthwatering (and wallet-friendly) food scene.

Water: Good news! Unlike some travel woes, staying hydrated in Venice is a breeze. The city boasts clean tap water, so fill up your reusable bottle and save those Euros for more important things (like another round of cicchetti!).

Affordable Eats: Travel Guide Venice

• Bàcari: These local gems are basically Venetian pubs serving up a symphony of small plates called cicchetti. Think bite-sized delights like crostini with creamy burrata, fried seafood, and miniature pizzas – all for a song (usually €1-€3 each). Pair them with a local spritz and soak in the authentic atmosphere.
• Pro Tip: Avoid tourist traps near St. Mark’s Square. Wander deeper into the city to discover hidden bàcari with even better prices.
• Trattorias: These family-run restaurants offer a taste of Venetian home cooking without breaking the bank. Expect daily specials featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients. Lunchtime is the prime time to snag a deal, often with set menus offering a starter, main course, and sometimes even dessert for a reasonable price.

Market Munchies:

• Rialto Market: This marketplace is a feast for the senses. Stroll through the stalls overflowing with fresh produce, local cheese, and cured meats. Grab a picnic basket and assemble your own Venetian feast for a fraction of the cost of a restaurant meal.
• Campo della Pescheria: This market, dedicated solely to seafood, is a must-visit for any pescatarian. Pick up some freshly caught fish or shellfish and have it cooked to perfection at one of the nearby restaurants for a fair price.
• Erberia Market: Spice up your meals with the displays of spices, herbs, and local delicacies at this market.

Bite-Sized Budget Bites:

• Panini: These Italian staples are perfect for a quick and affordable lunch. Freshly baked bread stuffed with cured meats, cheese, and various fillings are a delicious and budget-friendly option.
• Pizza al taglio: Forget fancy sit-down pizzerias. Head to a bakery selling pizza by the slice. Choose your favorite toppings and enjoy a hot and satisfying meal on the go.
• Fritto Misto: This Venetian street food consists of a medley of fried seafood and vegetables. It’s a great way to sample a variety of flavors without a hefty price tag.

Grocery Gems:

• Coop: This Italian supermarket chain offers a wide variety of groceries at competitive prices.
• Billa: Another reliable budget-friendly supermarket option with a good selection of everyday essentials.
• Local Fruttivenditori: Don’t miss the chance to support local vendors and pick up fresh fruits and vegetables from colorful street stalls.
• Bonus Tip: Bakeries in Venice often offer lower-priced “sacchetti” – paper bags filled with a mix of unsold bread and pastries from the day. Perfect for a sweet and inexpensive snack!

Forget battling overflowing gondolas and overpriced taxis – navigating Venice is an aquatic odyssey unlike any other! Here’s your detailed battle plan for getting around this watery maze without breaking the bank:

Understanding Venice’s Public Transportation

• The Vaporetto: Venice’s public water bus system, the vaporetto, is your main mode of maritime transport. Think of it as a giant water taxi, but way cooler (think colorful stripes and a refreshing breeze) and significantly cheaper, especially if you avoid the tourist hotspots along the Grand Canal.
• Conquer the fare: Single tickets can sting your wallet like a jellyfish. Invest in a multi-day pass – your best weapon against public transport sticker shock. A 24-hour pass starts around €20, while a 72-hour pass can be as low as €60, offering significant savings compared to single tickets.
• Pro Tip: Planning ahead is your secret weapon! Check the official Venezia Unica website for discounts on travel passes. These can even include discounted airport transfers, saving you precious euros and ensuring a smooth journey from arrival to your watery adventure.

Alternative Routes:

• Traghetto: These gondola ferries are the local water Uber, minus the surge pricing. They offer budget-friendly passage across the Grand Canal, whisking you from one sestiere (district) to another for just a few euros. 
• Walking: Venice is a surprisingly pedestrian-friendly city. Lace up your walking shoes and explore the maze of narrow streets and picturesque canals. 

Cheapest Way to Get To and From the Airport in Venice

• Marco Polo Airport: This is the main airport serving Venice. The most convenient (but not necessarily cheapest) option is the direct Alilaguna water bus. While it delivers you straight to the heart of the city, be prepared for a slightly higher fare compared to other options.
• Treviso Airport: This budget-friendly option is located on the mainland. From here, you can take a bus to Mestre, a nearby town, and then hop on a train or another bus to Venice. While it takes a bit longer, the savings can be substantial, leaving you with more euros for gelato (a priority, for sure).
• Insider Tip: Be sure to factor in travel time and connection schedules, especially if you’re arriving late or have tight connections. A little planning goes a long way in ensuring a smooth transition from land to sea.

Gondola: Yes, a gondola ride is a quintessential Venetian experience. But, let’s be honest, it can leave your wallet feeling lighter than a gondola in a strong current. Here are some ways to experience a touch of gondola grandeur without breaking the bank:

• Split the fare: Gather your travel companions and share the cost for a group ride. The more the merrier, and the lighter the financial burden!
• Take a scenic detour: While a ride down the Grand Canal might be the classic gondola experience, it also comes with a classic price tag. Opt for a route through the lesser-known canals. The journey might be slightly longer, but the price tag can be significantly lower, allowing you to experience the magic of a gondola ride without maxing out your credit card.

Choosing the perfect time to visit Venice is like navigating a labyrinth of canals – it requires a strategic plan. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the seasons to help you steer clear of crowds and find the perfect time for your Venetian adventure:

• High Season (June – August):

Pros: Long sunny days, great atmosphere, most attractions open.
Cons: Packed like a gondola on a Saturday afternoon, expensive flights and accommodation, sweltering heat that can leave you feeling like a melted candle.

• Shoulder Season (April – May & September – October):

Pros: Pleasant weather, fewer crowds compared to the high season, some deals on flights and hotels.
Cons: Some shops and restaurants may have shorter hours, possibility of occasional rain showers that might dampen your exploration.

• Low Season (November – March):

Pros: Rock-bottom prices on flights and accommodation, experiencing the authentic Venetian atmosphere with fewer tourists, shorter queues for popular attractions.
Cons: Chilly weather can leave you feeling like a popsicle, some attractions with limited hours, high possibility of acqua alta (flooding) turning the streets into temporary canals.

National Holidays & Peak Festivals

• Carnevale: Venice transforms into a masked marvel during this February festival. Expect sky-high prices, overflowing crowds, and the city pulsating with an spirited, mysterious energy. Be sure to book your accommodation well in advance if you plan to experience this unique event.
• Festa di San Marco (St. Mark’s Day): Celebrated on April 25th, this marks the city’s patron saint with parades, religious ceremonies, and special events. Accommodation costs might increase during this time, so factor that into your budget.
• Venice Biennale: This prestigious international art exhibition runs from May to November, attracting art enthusiasts from all over the globe. Expect a surge in tourist numbers and potentially higher hotel rates.
• Redentore Festival: Held on the third Sunday of July, this festival features a spectacular fireworks display over the Giudecca Canal. Be prepared for larger crowds and slightly inflated prices around this date.
• Historic Regatta: Taking place on the first Sunday of September, this traditional boat race attracts crowds and adds to the lively atmosphere. Accommodation may be slightly more expensive during this time.

Venice may be a watery wonderland, but navigating its charm requires a bit of savvy. Here’s your survival guide to packing the essentials and staying safe while exploring this magical city:

Safety Tips: Venice Guide

• Beware of Pickpockets: Crowded areas like Rialto Bridge and St. Mark’s Square are prime hunting grounds for light-fingered individuals. Keep your valuables close (think money belt or a secure cross-body bag) and stay alert, especially in busy areas.
• Steering Clear of Acqua Alta: Venice occasionally experiences high tides that flood the streets. If you visit during this time, be sure to pack waterproof boots. Following designated raised walkways and checking the tide forecast are crucial to navigating these temporary high waters.

Things Not to Do in Venice

• Feeding the Pigeons: While it might seem like a harmless act, these feathered fiends can be quite aggressive, and their droppings can damage historical buildings. Admire them from afar, but resist the urge to become a pigeon buffet provider.
• Public Picnics on Piazzas: Resist the urge to sprawl out for a picnic lunch on St. Mark’s Square or other major piazzas. Public authorities strictly enforce regulations against eating and drinking on these landmarks. Find a nearby park or a charming bacaro (local bar) to enjoy your meal instead.
• Taking a Gondola Ride at Night (Without a Plan): A nighttime gondola ride can be incredibly romantic, but be wary of unofficial gondolier offers. Always negotiate the price beforehand to avoid any unpleasant surprises at the end of your ride.
• Swimming in the Canals: This might seem like a tempting way to cool off on a hot day, but resist the urge! The canals are polluted and can be dangerous. There are plenty of designated swimming areas outside the city center if you’re looking for a refreshing dip.

Venice Travel Pass

• Venezia Unica: This city pass is your golden ticket to discounts. It offers reduced entry to museums, churches, and other attractions, along with unlimited travel on public transportation (including vaporetto water buses) for a set period.
• Rolling Venice Card: Perfect for young travelers (aged 6-29), this card unlocks budget-friendly travel on ACTV public transport and throws in some discounts at museums and shops.