General Information about Venice

General Information about Venice

What clothes should I pack? Should I buy an Italian dictionary? Is Venice very expensive? To give you answers to your doubts, we have written a list of the most frequently asked questions and our observations about Venice.

Travel Advice

Information on entry requirements for Italy like the necessary documents, passports and visas to visit Venice and Italy.
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Public Holidays

Up to date information on the bank holidays in Venice and the rest of Italy. It's always a good idea to discover the city’s public holidays before going.
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Weather

The climate of Venice varies a lot from one season to another, so it's important factor to keep in mind when planning a trip to Venice, Italy.
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Prices

Information on the various prices and travel costs for Venice. If you plan your holidays in advance you can save up when you visit Venice.
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Language

The official language spoken in Venice and the rest of Italy is Italian. This article includes useful phrases and expressions in Italian.
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Opening Hours

The opening hours in Venice are somewhat limited and many stores close at lunchtime, on Sundays and on Monday mornings. Discover the opening times.
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Tips for the differently-abled

Venice is not an ideal destination for those with a disability or with a wheelchair. Discover our tips for travellers with disabilities.
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History of Venice

History of Venice

The history of Venice is extremely interesting from its foundation until the present day. Discover its past, present and future.
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Venice Sestieri

San Marco

San Marco

The district of San Marco in Venice is named after the city’s patron saint, and is without a doubt the heart of Venice. Discover its streets and squares.
San Polo

San Polo

Established near the Rialto Bridge, San Polo is Venice’s smallest district and one of the oldest in the city. Discover what there is to do in San Polo.
Dorsoduro

Dorsoduro

The district of Dorsoduro is located in the southeast part of Venice and includes Giudecca island. It is a cool and trendy area full of students.
Cannaregio

Cannaregio

Several notable Italians lived in Cannaregio throughout the various centuries including Marco Polo, Titian or Tintoretto. Discover the best things to do.
Castello

Castello

Castello is Venice’s largest neighbourhood. It includes the tourist area that surrounds the Doge's Palace and an ancient shipyard.
Santa Croce

Santa Croce

Santa Croce and especially the east part of the district is one of the humblest areas of Venice. It's the only part of the island in which cars can travel.
Venice Carnival

Venice Carnival

The Carnival of Venice is unique in the world and its celebration is unlike any other. Latest information on the Venice Carnival and how it takes place.
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Fun Facts

Acqua Alta

Acqua Alta

The Acqua Alta is the phenomenon by which Venice is flooded temporarily various times a year. Some tourists find this anomaly very exciting.
Livio de Marchi Gallery

Livio de Marchi Gallery

Livio de Marchi, also known as the Carpenter of Venice, is one of the most curious artists born in Venice.
Church of San Barnaba

Church of San Barnaba

If you are a fan of Indiana Jones and have seen “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade”, you will enjoy visiting San Barnaba, its imaginary library.
Ponte dei Pugni

Ponte dei Pugni

The Ponte dei Pugni is one of the most famous bridges in Venice thanks to its unusual history. Discover all the details of the Bridge of Fists.

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Venice Facts & Figures

Venice has over 260,000 inhabitants.

Travel Advice

If you're from the EU, you'll only need a passport or an identity card to enter Italy.

Security and Crime

Venice is a very safe city, but we recommend always keeping an eye on your purse or wallet, as there are pickpockets in the city centre, especially in the most touristy areas.

Health Care

As in the rest of Europe, to receive free health care in Venice you need a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). This card is free of charge and is issued by your national health insurance provider.

The EHIC does not cover expenses such as transfer by ambulance, stays of family members or changes to the return travel plan.

If you're a British citizen, you'll need a Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). You can see more information about getting one here.

For more complete coverage, you can purchase our travel insurance.

Important Telephone Numbers

  • Emergencies: 113
  • Sanitary emergencies: 118
  • Carabinieri: 112
  • Area code for Venice: 041
  • Italy country code: +39