The Gay Venice Guide (Italy 🇮🇹)

Table of Contents:

• Intro: Benvenuti a Gay Venice 🦁🏳️‍🌈
• LGBTQ+ Life in Veneto, Italy 🇮🇹🏳️‍🌈
• Gay Map of Venice and Veneto Region 🗺️
• History of Venice in a Nutshell 🦪
• Gay Tourism in Venice and in the Veneto Region 🎭🪩
• Where to Stay in Venice 🏩
• Gay Nightlife in Venice 🎏
• Gay Nightlife in Other Cities Nearby Venice 🌆
  • Gay Nightlife in Padua (Padova) 🎓
  • Gay Nightlife in Treviso 🍷
  • Gay Nightlife in Verona 💝🏟️
• Gay beaches in Veneto ⛱️🩲
• Where to Eat & Aperitivo in Venice 🍝
• Shopping in Venice 🛍️
• Cultural and Historical sites in Venice 🏛️
• Day Trips from Venice 🏔️
• TL;DR: Plant Your Venice Trip (Logistics) ✈️

Intro: Benvenuti a Gay Venice

Welcome to Venezia, a city that needs little introduction. Known as the one of the most opulent and romantic cities in the world during the 15th and 16th centuries 🎀, Venice continues to captivate visitors with its rich history and vibrant cultural scene, including renowned art events🖼️ like the Biennale and the Venice Film Festival. There's always something fascinating happening amidst its timeless allure in this mysterious place.

Historically, Venice has been a beacon of tolerance🌈 and innovation. Here, one of the world's most famous "Carnivals" reigns, where splendor and beautiful costumes prevail, legacies of a centuries-old tradition, providing a space for people to adopt alternate identities behind masks🎭 (you can discover more in the intriguing and comprehensive article titled The Complicated History of LGBTQ Venice. Additionally, Venice was home to the world's first Jewish ghetto, a testament to its complex history of grappling with Europe's religious intolerance.

While Venice itself offers a glimpse into its tolerant past, venturing into the mainland unveils a more realistic and diverse landscape, especially in cities like Padova and Verona, renowned for their LGBTQ+ events. Easily accessible by train from Venice, these cities offer vibrant scenes for gay travelers and welcoming atmospheres, making them essential stops for visitors seeking inclusivity.🦄

In this guide, we'll navigate you through the must-visit spots in Venice and its surrounding areas in the Veneto region, ensuring you make the most of your experience in this enchanting part of Italy.🇮🇹👢

Sexy bridges like the, Ponte di Rialto, span most of the canals

LGBTQ+ Life in Veneto, Italy

Being gay men in Veneto, Italy, particularly in cities like Padova and Verona, is generally met with acceptance and tolerance. Venice, especially, is known for its LGBTQ community, with gondolas often seen carrying sweet same-sex couples openly expressing affection. Cute!🥰Padova, home to one of the oldest universities, boasts a diverse and youthful population, contributing to its overall tolerance. However, as with any destination, it's wise to exercise caution in less touristic areas and avoid drawing unnecessary attention if you're unsure or feel unsafe. Italy has made significant strides in LGBTQ+ rights in recent years, legalizing same-sex civil unions in 2016. While discrimination and prejudice still exist, especially in more conservative areas, the overall legal framework supports LGBTQ+ rights, offering protections against discrimination in employment and public services. Ultimately, Veneto offers a welcoming atmosphere for LGBTQ+ individuals to explore and enjoy freely.

While there isn't an official Venice Pride happening on a yearly basis, many of the nearby cities have it, so it is a good time to be a part of Venice and Italy's burgeoning queer history.

I am a Padua Boy at heart!

Gay Map of Venice and Veneto Region

History of Venice in a Nutshell

Before Venice's emergence, Veneto was home to ancient peoples like the Veneti, later conquered by the Romans in the 2nd century BC, fostering a prosperous trade hub. In the 5th century AD, Venice's legendary history began as refugees settled marshy islands in the Venetian Lagoon, developing them into a prosperous city-state.

Venice's strategic location between the Mediterranean and the Adriatic Seas facilitated its rise as a maritime power. By the 9th century, Venice had established itself as an independent republic governed by a unique political system. The city's economy thrived through maritime trade, especially with the Byzantine Empire and the Islamic world. Venice became a major center for commerce, particularly in luxury goods such as spices, silk, and precious metals.

During the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, Venice flourished, accumulating wealth and influence evident in its magnificent palaces, churches, and monuments, which became symbols of its prosperity and cultural opulence. Known as the Most Serene Republic of Venice, the city-state emerged as a dominant maritime power in the Mediterranean, governed by a complex political system with councils, elected officials, and a doge as the nominal head of state. Expanding its influence through conquest and diplomacy, Venice established colonies and trading posts across the Mediterranean and Adriatic Seas, supported by its formidable navy, the Venetian Arsenal.

Despite its zenith in the 15th and 16th centuries, Venice faced challenges due to the discovery of the sea route to India and the rise of European powers, which impacted its trade dominance. By the 17th and 18th centuries, Venice's power declined amid internal strife and external threats. Napoleon Bonaparte's conquest in 1797 marked the end of the republic after over a millennium of independence. Subsequently, Venice passed to various rulers before joining the Kingdom of Italy in the 19th century.

Today, Venice remains a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a beacon of its illustrious past, drawing millions of visitors yearly to admire its beauty, art, and cultural legacy. Nonetheless, Venice grapples with distinctive challenges, including the threat of sinking due to the gradual subsidence of its foundations and the encroaching waters of the Adriatic Sea. To address this, the city has deployed innovative engineering solutions like the MOSE project, featuring movable barriers to shield against high tides and flooding. Despite these hurdles, Venice continues to captivate with its incomparable allure, serving as a testament to the enduring spirit and resilience of its inhabitants across generations.

By the way, as a Venetian myself, I'm happy to be part of Europe 🇪🇺 and Italy 🇮🇹, but I would make good use of an emoji of the Venetian flag! 📖🗡️🦁🪽🏔️🌊

Gay Tourism in Venice and Veneto Region

Venice island (Central Venice) is not currently known for its bustling nightlife scene or gay scene, but there are occasional options for those seeking evening entertainment. During the summer months, visitors can find discos on the island of Lido, especially during the Redentore Festival, offering a taste of nightlife against the backdrop of the Adriatic. The city's only club, Piccolo Mondo, while not a gay venue, prides itself on being inclusive to all. For a more relaxed evening, Campo Santa Margherita is a popular spot for aperitivo and wine bars among college students, attracting a diverse crowd, especially at the Orange Bar.

However, for a wider range of gay-friendly nightlife options, many locals and visitors venture to the mainland, particularly Mestre, which is easily accessible from Venice! Notable events like Trash and Chic happen once a month, drawing crowds to venues like Molo 5 in Mestre and Parco dei Principi in Noale. Check the date! 📆

Our recommendation if you want to have a fun gay night is to hop on a train and head to Padova (Padua), the gay city hotspot in the area, reachable by train in less than 30 minutes from venice! If you're up for a fun night, you can go by train and get back with the first train of the morning. Check the trains!

Unlock All Access: Your Passport to Italy's Gay Clubs with ARCO Travel Card💳🏳️‍🌈

In some gay clubs in Italy, particularly saunas, entry may require a specific membership card. However, for tourists, there's now a convenient solution: the ARCO Travel Card. Designed for non-Italian citizens, this card offers the same benefits as the standard AllClubs card but at a reduced price. Valid in all participating clubs for three months from the date of purchase or renewal, the ARCO Travel Card provides easy access to the vibrant nightlife scene in Italy's gay clubs and saunas.

Where to Stay in Venice

There are plenty of Venice hotels, but we also recommend staying in hotels in Mestre across the lagoon as they are cheaper and are right above the train station, giving you unparalleled access to not just Venice, but the rest of the superb Veneto region and onward.

Where to stay in Venice:

Where to stay in Mestre:

All I Want for Christmas by Teatró at the theater of Abano Terme (Padua)

Gay Nightlife in Venice and Gay Bars in Venice

Don't expect to find a ton of gay bars in Venice, as it is still a city in a country steeped in tradition. Nevertheless the scene is definitely growing from how it was years ago.

• Trash and Chic, the most renowned event, is beloved by youngsters for its vibrant energy and exciting atmosphere. With over 20 years of history, it remains a favorite among the younger crowd in Venice and Mestre, drawing them in with its dynamic music, eclectic fashion, and lively ambiance.
• L’Altro Verdi and Galliano, two bars on opposite sides of the street on Via Piave in Mestre, both LGBTQ friendly establishments ideal for aperitifs. With a wide selection of wines and appetizers, they're perfect for enjoying from early evening until late into the night.
• House of Rimmel is an inclusive club hosting event nights between Venice and Mestre at Molo 5. Events are held at various venues with beautiful themes, offering love, drag shows, DJ sets, and late-night fun.
• Fujiyama Tea Room Beatrice, cozy tearoom in the sestiere (district) of Dorsoduro, adjacent to the B&B Fujiyama operates mainly during daylight hours, usually closing around 7 p.m. Visiting this spot feels like being embraced by family, ensuring a delightful experience every time.
• Bra's Cocktail Bar: Bra's Cocktail Bar: A quirky spot known for its excellent cocktails and unpredictable crowd—whether it's buzzing or blissfully quiet, every visit is an adventure.👙
• The Metrò Venezia Club is located very close to Mestre station. Inside the venue, you'll find a hot tub, Finnish sauna, Turkish bath, and more.😈
• Juice Berry Club Venice A only men cruising gay club located near the Mestre harbor, offering an inclusive environment and vibrant atmosphere. Follow their Instagram for updates on exciting nightlife events.
• Marco Polo Libreria, an unmissable independent LGBTQ+ bookstore in in Campo Santa Margherita. Explore a curated selection of new and out-of-print books with rad booksellers, open until 8 pm. Don't miss it!📚🦄

Gay Nightlife in Other Cities Nearby Venice

Gay Nightlife in Padua (Padova)

Padova, renowned for its prestigious university and vibrant culture, boasts captivating attractions. Don't miss the awe-inspiring Scrovegni Chapel adorned with frescoes by Giotto, and Prato della Valle, one of Europe's largest public squares, adorned with statues and surrounded by elegant palaces.

To reach Padova from Venice 🚝🚎, opt for a direct train from Venezia Santa Lucia station, with frequent departures, or take the A4 highway by car, approximately a 30-minute drive. Alternatively, buses (Line 53) offer another convenient option, providing scenic views of the Veneto countryside (Riviera del Brenta) along the way.

• Pride Village: Experience a vibrant summer festival with electrifying evenings, concerts, and thought-provoking debates. This major event, running from June to September, welcomes renowned guests, including performances by the Drag Queen Heavy Passion, the epitome of charisma and glamour in Padova's queer scene!
• Anima Underground: Discover a historic disco pub in Padova, where exciting events like Anima Trash, a monthly gay night with free entry, take place. Find it at Via della Croce Rossa, 46.
• Musa Padova: Delight in aperitivo-dinners every Sunday at Pub Amsterdam.
• The Pizzeria Albatros is a cornerstone in the LGBTQ+ friendly scene of Padova, frequented by the local LGBTQ+ community. The pizza is consistently delicious, and the staff, especially Mrs. Emanuela, are exceptionally friendly—she's practically a gay icon!
• Flexo Club: Immerse yourself in house and commercial music at Flexo Club, where themed evenings like Beardoc🐻 and Manzone🐂 await. Swing by Via Turazza 19 for an unforgettable experience. Plus, don't miss the karaoke nights at the Touch Cafe, hosted by the iconic Miss Linda every 1st and 3rd week of the month.
• Metro Padova Sauna: Relax and rejuvenate at Padova's premier gay sauna, offering tranquil escape.
• Hot Dog: Embark on a thrilling adventure at this cruising venue, situated at Via Turazza 19.
• Club Officina: Dive into the atmosphere of Europe's kinkiest club at Padova's premier cruising spot.
• Teatrò, at the Teatro Polivalente in Abano Terme, organizes queer shows (music, cabaret etc.). Memorable among them is the Christmas show titled 'All I Want for Christmas You.

Where to stay in Padua:

Shirtless boys at ANIMA bar in Padua -- yum yum

Our friend, Heavy Passion

Gay Nightlife in Treviso

Treviso, the homeland of Prosecco, boasts picturesque canals, historic architecture, and vibrant piazzas. Its charming streets are lined with colorful houses and lively markets, inviting visitors to explore local cuisine at cozy trattorias.

To reach Treviso from Venice 🚝🚎, the most convenient options include taking a direct train from Venezia Santa Lucia station, with frequent departures throughout the day, or driving via the A27 highway, approximately a 40-minute journey. Additionally, buses provide another affordable and scenic option, offering a glimpse of the picturesque Veneto countryside along the way.

• Freakbar Treviso: Experience the monthly aperitivo organized by Coordination LGTB Treviso, always gay-friendly, at Freakbar Treviso.
• Adoro LGBTQ+ Party: Join the vibrant LGBTQ+ party organized by Kekattiva, featuring captivating drag queen performances at Tortuga Club, located at Via Enrico Mattei 6, Quinto di Treviso (TV).
• Circolo Hobby One: Unwind and relax at Hobby One Sauna Gay, welcoming a diverse clientele.
• Palace - Power to the Queens at Home Rock Bar Treviso: Enjoy the dynamic atmosphere and fabulous drag queen performances at Home Rock Bar Treviso. Check Date!
• Q.pido Festival: Immerse yourself in LGBTQ+ culture at the annual Q.pido Festival in May, celebrating diversity and inclusivity in Treviso and Organised by Coordinamento LGBTE Treviso.

Where to stay in Treviso:

Gay Nightlife in Verona

Verona, famed for Shakespeare's tragedy "Romeo and Juliet," enchants with its cobblestone streets and the iconic Arena di Verona, where world-class opera performances and modern concerts unfold. Explore landmarks like Juliet's House amid the city's ancient ruins and vibrant atmosphere.

To reach Verona from Venice, travelers can opt for a direct train from Venezia Santa Lucia station, with frequent departures throughout the day, or drive via the A4 highway, approximately a 1-hour and 20-minute journey. Alternatively, buses offer a convenient and scenic route, allowing passengers to admire the picturesque landscapes of the Veneto region along the way.

• Luclà: A historic bar located in the center of Verona, perfect for coffee or an aperitif. Always bustling, it occasionally hosts small parties. Address: Via Marcantonio Bentegodi, 4/A.
• Milord: Visit Milord on the last Sunday of the month for lively gatherings at Beri's Club. Address: Via Lussemburgo 1.
• DarkHouse Verona: A cruising gay bar and leather bar open from Thursday to Sunday, located in an industrial area.
• Robyz: Experience hospitality at its best at Bar e Cucina Robyz in Veronetta. This gay-friendly establishment offers a welcoming atmosphere where you can enjoy delicious food and drinks.
• Liquid: A gay sauna conveniently located within walking distance from the city center. Address: Via Nicolò Giolfino, 12.

Where to stay in Verona:

Gay beaches in Venice and Veneto

• Lagona del Mort, Eraclea Mare: A secluded spot for naturists, offering tranquility and natural beauty.
• Brussa near Caorle: Nestled along the Provincial Road near Caorle, this beach provides a peaceful escape with its scenic surroundings.
• Alberoni: Famous for its appearance in Luchino Visconti's materpiece film "Death in Venice," Alberoni offers a picturesque setting and a welcoming atmosphere.
• San Nicoletto al Lido di Venezia: A gay-friendly beach with a vibrant atmosphere, located along Calle S. Nicoleto in Venice.
• Porto Caleri a Rosolina: A serene naturist beach in Rosolina, ideal for those seeking a peaceful seaside retreat.
• Ponte della Priula: Tucked away near Treviso, this naturist spot along the Piave River offers breathtaking views and a sense of serenity.
• Ponte nelle Alpi a Belluno, this gay-friendly beach in Belluno is a hidden gem amidst stunning natural surroundings.
• Punta San Virgilio, Garda: Situated in Garda, this beach offers a mix of relaxation and scenic beauty along the shores of Lake Garda.
• Navene, Riva del Garda: A popular spot for naturists in Riva del Garda, offering crystal-clear waters and stunning mountain views.

Where to Eat & Aperitivo in Venice

When it comes to dining in Venice, there's a rich tapestry of flavors to explore. From traditional Venetian cuisine, mainly based on fish, to international fare, the options are endless. One culinary tradition not to be missed is cicchetti, small bites akin to tapas, perfect for sampling a variety of flavors. Below, I've curated a list of my favorites across Venice Island. However, amidst the abundance of choices, it's essential to steer clear of tourist traps, especially those lurking under the Rialto's bridge. For those seeking affordable yet delicious meals, the area around Santa Marta, famous for students as home to institutions like IUAV, offers great options, especially for lunch: Al canton Sas, Osteria Bacan, Osteria La Bifora. If you're seeking more advice, check out this guide.

• Osteria ai Pugni is our favorite spot for aperitivo; the staff is genuinely friendly, and the drinks and food are both excellent and affordable. It's also situated in a perfect location.
• Bacareto da Lele: A go-to spot near the bus and train stations, offering affordable cicchetti—a perfect destination for a quick and budget-friendly aperitivo experience.🍸
• Enoteca Schiavi and a little further in the same street, Osteria al Squero, Offering picturesque views of gondolas being crafted in one of Venice's last active 'squeros.' This cozy spot boasts a counter filled with stuffed sandwiches, crostini, and classic 'cicheti' like sardines in 'saor' or whipped codfish. Enjoy your meal al fresco on sunny days by the canal-side wall.

Ryan's all-time favorite aperitivo at Enoteca Schiavi

• Pasticceria Tonolo Venezia: Indulge in delectable treats at this renowned pastry shop, known for its exquisite frittelle and bugie (galani), especially during the vibrant Carnival season.🥮
• Ancòra Venezia, Osteria Ristorante e Piano Bar: A cozy establishment near the fish market and Rialto, boasting a terrace overlooking the Grand Canal.
• Ristorante al Vagon, since its inception in 1951 proudly upholds the Venetian seafood tradition. Accessible through a spacious portico near the Santissimi Apostoli bridge, its classic yet rustic ambiance exudes warmth and hospitality. With nearly 100 indoor and 60 outdoor seats, it caters to banquets and offers a menu ranging from 25 to 50 Euros, making it an oasis at the end of the bustling Strada Nova.

We love our Cicchetti 🥪

Shopping in Venice🛍️

From quaint boutiques tucked away in hidden alleyways to renowned luxury brands lining streets like Calle Larga XXII Marzo (the ultimate temptation alley for luxury splurges near San Marco Square! If you're in it to spend big, this is your runway to retail heaven!), the city offers something for every shopper. Explore the vibrant Rialto Market for fresh produce and local delicacies, or wander through the bustling streets of San Polo for artisanal crafts and Venetian masks. Don't miss the chance to peruse the exquisite Murano glass creations on the island of Murano and browse through the intricate lacework of Burano, where centuries-old traditions blend seamlessly with contemporary designs.

• Fondaco dei Tedeschi, nestled near the iconic Rialto Bridge in Venice, stands as a prominent shopping center within a historic setting. Easily accessible from the city center, visitors can reach Fondaco dei Tedeschi by a leisurely stroll or a short waterbus ride along the picturesque Grand Canal. This renowned shopping destination boasts a curated selection of luxury boutiques and stores, attracting discerning shoppers seeking upscale fashion and unique souvenirs in the heart of Venice. Additionally, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city from the building's balcony, though advance booking is necessary to secure a spot for this unforgettable experience.
• Nave de Vero in Venice is a bustling shopping hub in the Mestre district, easily accessible from the city center. Visitors can reach this modern shopping destination by using convenient public transportation like buses or trams. Alternatively, taxis or rideshare services offer a direct and efficient way to arrive. With its diverse range of stores and eateries, Nave de Vero provides a vibrant shopping experience just a stone's throw away from the historic charm of Venice.

The Luxury shopping mall of Fondaco dei Tedeschi near Rialto

Cultural and Historical sites in Venice aka my favorite things to do in Venice!

• Take vaporetto number 1 (or alternatively number 2) from the train station, which stops at practically every station, including Santa Maria della Salute, and admire all the facades of the palaces along the Grand Canal comfortably from the water for less than 10 euros. Mind that it's often very busy!
• Visit the Doge's Palace in St Mark's Square (also check out St Mark's Basilica) and spend at least half an hour sitting and admiring the Sala del Maggior Consiglio, one of the biggest in all Europe, and the "Paradise" painted by Tintoretto and his workshop, the largest canvas in the world.👨‍🎨

• Explore the Venice Biennale of Art or Architecture in the gardens 'Giardini della Biennale', where you'll find pavilions from various countries, providing an unforgettable visual experience.
• Enjoy an aperitivo outdoor seating-style in Campo Santa Margherita or Campo Bella Vienna near the fish market at Rialto.
• Watch the sunset over Venice from the bell tower of San Giorgio Maggiore.🌅
• Admire the illuminated Venice lagoon at night, including Piazza San Marco, San Giorgio, and Giudecca, from Punta della Dogana.
• Simply get lost in Venice; every calle, every palace, every island has its own story, sometimes millennia old, waiting to be discovered. Many places are not always accessible due to maintenance, so there's always something different to explore. Be inspired and find out for yourself what is the must-see in Venice! If you aren't sure where to go, you can get off the beaten path with a tour that takes you to some of the lesser-known corners of Venice.

The Squero - Where gondolas come to life

Day trips from Venice, Days trip in Veneto 🚙

• Tour the Islands in the lagoon of Venice⛴️ - Each island boasts its own fascinating story and legends waiting to be uncovered. For instance, there's San Servolo, once an asylum, or the real first lazaretto in the world during the plague outbreak. Then there's San Francesco del Deserto, where Saint Francis sought solace upon his return from Egypt, and San Lazzaro degli Armeni, a refuge for Armenian fleeing monks. With so much to explore, you're truly spoiled for choice. While I haven't personally visited all of them, I can assure you that each possesses its own unique charm, with some accessible only during specific times of the year. So, grab your map and embark on an unforgettable island-hunting adventure in the Venetian lagoons! Here is a tour you can check out.
• Riviera del Brenta and Venetian Villas🏛️ - Prepare to be enchanted by the timeless elegance of the Venetian villas scattered along this picturesque route. Cruise along the tranquil waters aboard the Burchiello and marvel at the exquisite architecture and lush gardens of these historic estates. Don't miss the chance to explore Villa Pisani, boasting a fascinating labyrinth that promises an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

If you want to actually stay in one of these luxurious villas, check out some of these:

Villa Widmann in nearby Mira

• Euganeans Hills and Thermal Springs♨️🧖‍♂️ - Relax and rejuvenate amidst the natural beauty of the Colli Euganei hills, renowned for their therapeutic thermal springs at Terme Euganee, and unwind in luxurious spa resorts nestled amid vineyards and olive groves. Discover the perfect blend of wellness and tranquility in this serene corner of Veneto, where even the renowned poet Petrarch sought inspiration and solace. For a unique twist, don't miss visiting Columbus of Abano Terme, where the Piscina Comunale is a popular spot for the gay community, adding inclusivity and vibrancy to your rejuvenating escape.
• Wine region: Valdobbiane, Conegliano and Soave🍷🏞️ - Lastly, immerse yourself in the flavors of Veneto's renowned wine regions, from the sparkling Prosecco of Valdobbiadene to the rich Amarone of Verona. Embark on a wine tasting journey through picturesque vineyards, sampling award-winning vintages and discovering the art of winemaking firsthand. We recently experienced the unique charm of Osteria Senz'Oste in Valdobbiadene, where you can enjoy fresh wine and cheese from a hillside vending machine while soaking in panoramic views of the countryside.

• The Dolomites🏔️ - A UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its dramatic landscapes and rugged peaks. Immerse yourself in the serenity of nature as you hike through pristine alpine meadows, traverse winding trails, or embark on exhilarating outdoor adventures amidst towering mountain ranges. Whether you seek tranquility or adrenaline-fueled excitement, the Dolomites offer an unforgettable experience. If you happen to visit in winter, you can also opt for the gay ski week in Cortina!⛷️

Gorgeous, majestic Dolomites

Get convenient food and drinks all across the charming towns surrounding Venice!

Burano, an island famous for colorful houses

TL;DR: Plan Your Venice Trip (Logistics) 🚤

Is There a Fee to Enter Venice?

On certain days, particularly during peak times, visitors to Venice are required to pay an Access Fee introduced by the Municipality in 2024. This fee is mandatory for occasional visitors and grants access to the historic city. To ensure a seamless experience and support the city's preservation endeavors, payment of the fee can be made through the provided link.

When is the Best Time to Visit Venice?

It's always a good time to visit Venice, but it's advisable to avoid the summer months due to excessive crowds and high humidity, making it uncomfortably hot 🥵 (unless you want to spend the whole time at the beaches). Additionally, November tends to be very rainy, while January may be cold but less crowded with tourists. Carnival (usually in February) is also best avoided due to the crowds. Personally, I recommend visiting in September or October when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are thinner.

Do I Need a Visa for Italy?

For EU, EEA, or Swiss citizens, visa requirements are straightforward. For others, check with relevant authorities or iVisa.

How to Get to Venice

Venice can be accessed by air, with Marco Polo Airport serving as the primary hub. Convenient options are also available through nearby airports, including Canova of Treviso, Trieste, Verona, and Bologna, all of which offer train connections to Venice. Additionally, travelers can reach Venice via train or bus, both of which offer scenic routes from various European cities. While parking is available in Venice, it's advisable to check prices beforehand. Alternatively, parking in nearby areas like Mestre or Porto Marghera tends to be more economical. Venice is well-connected to the mainland by land, making accommodations in the Riviera del Brenta a favorable and cost-effective option.

Internet in Italy/Mobile Internet in Italy

The latest alternative that we have been using when travelling is eSIMs. We use Airalo religiously. Through them, you can get an e-SIM that has coverage for most countries in Europe for much cheaper than roaming. Just make sure to research whether your phone is e-SIM compatible before buying an e-SIM. If you go this way, buy it before your trip and make sure you set it up beforehand as well (and turn off your normal SIM before connecting to data).

Health and Safety in Venice

Venice's islands are as safe as being inside a theme park 🏰, but be mindful of pickpockets in crowded areas. Ensure you have travel medical insurance and access to healthcare if needed.

Our favorite travel medical insurance is SafetyWing.

How to Get Around Venice

Explore Venice on foot or by water taxi, vaporetto, or gondola tour. Navigating the city's intricate canal network is part of the experience. Additionally, in Lido di Venezia, you can also take buses to get around.

What is the Currency in Italy?

The currency in Venice is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases.

How Much Do I Tip in Italy?

Tipping in Italy is not obligatory, but rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip for exceptional service is appreciated. It's worth noting that in most restaurants, there is a "coperto" single charge for every person, which is a small amount to cover the cost of the table (aka condiments, bread, etc.)

What Else Do I Need to Know about Venice?

• Pack a universal power adapter for Type C or F outlets.
• Embrace the leisurely pace of Venice and be prepared for longer travel times between attractions.
• Enjoy drinks at outdoor cafes but avoid consuming alcohol on public transport.
• If you are planning to visit religious buildings, it's important to dress modestly and respectfully. Avoid wearing tank tops, shorts, or revealing clothing, as many religious sites have dress codes in place. But feel free to wear your jockstrap underneath! 😂

The fish market of Venice, possibly the world's nicest?!

Other Italy Resources

• The Gay Guide to Milan, Italy