Table Of Contents
- Get Used to Living on the Water
- Learn Some Basic Italian Words
- Pick the Right Neighborhood
- Get Ready for Everyday Life in Venice
- Prepare for Italian Paperwork
- Understand the Cost of Living
- Connect with Locals and the Community
- Respect Venice’s Unique Culture and Traditions
- Be Ready for Some Challenges
- Explore Beyond the Main Islands
Moving to Venice, one of the most unique and beautiful cities in the world, is an exciting adventure. But living in a city built on water comes with its own set of challenges and surprises. From navigating the canals to understanding the Venetian way of life, there are a few key things to keep in mind.Here, I will explain 10 things you should know before moving to Venice.
Get Used to Living on the Water
- Transportation: Venice is built on water, so there are no cars or buses in the city. The main ways to get around are by walking or taking boats called vaporettos (water buses) and water taxis. Learn how to use these boat services because they will be your main transportation. You might also need to get a boat pass to save money.
- Moving Your Stuff: When you move, your belongings will likely be delivered by boat. Be ready to carry them on foot through narrow streets and across bridges. It can be tricky, so pack light and think about how you’ll manage heavy or bulky items.
Learn Some Basic Italian Words
- Even though many people in Venice speak English, especially in tourist areas, learning a few Italian phrases will help you a lot. Simple words like “hello” (ciao), “thank you” (grazie), and “how much?” (quanto costa?) can make daily life easier.
- Italians appreciate it when you try to speak their language, and it can help you build friendships with local Venetians.
Pick the Right Neighborhood
- Venice is divided into six main neighborhoods, called sestieri, and each one feels a bit different:
- Cannaregio: A quieter, more residential area with a mix of local shops and cafes.
- Castello: Great if you want to be near beautiful gardens and local markets.
- San Marco: The tourist heart of Venice, lively but crowded.
- Dorsoduro: Popular with students and artists, offering a more relaxed atmosphere.
- Take some time to explore each neighborhood before choosing where to live. Think about what’s important to you, like peace and quiet, being close to shops, or having a good view.
Get Ready for Everyday Life in Venice
- Shopping for Groceries: Venice doesn’t have big supermarkets like other cities. You’ll find smaller stores and markets where you can buy fresh fruits, vegetables, bread, and more. Carrying groceries can be a bit of work since you’ll be walking over bridges and through narrow streets.
- Flooding: Venice has seasonal flooding called Acqua Alta, usually in the fall and winter. Sometimes, streets and squares fill with water. Keep waterproof boots and an umbrella handy, and pay attention to local news for flood warnings.
- Tourist Crowds: Venice attracts millions of tourists every year. During busy seasons, especially around major landmarks, streets can get crowded. It helps to learn the quieter paths and know the best times to go out, like early mornings.
Prepare for Italian Paperwork
- Getting Residency: If you’re moving to Venice long-term, you might need to deal with paperwork, like registering for residency, getting a health card, or setting up a bank account. Italian bureaucracy can be slow and complicated, so be patient. You might want to ask a local friend or a professional to help you with the process.
- Setting Up Utilities: Arranging things like water, electricity, gas, and internet in Venice can take time. Some older buildings might have unique challenges, like spotty internet or heating systems that take getting used to.
Understand the Cost of Living
- Venice can be an expensive place to live, especially for housing and eating out. Small apartments in the city center are usually pricey. To save money, consider cooking at home and shopping at local markets.
- Local products like seafood, fresh vegetables, and wine are reasonably priced, but imported items and eating at touristy restaurants can cost a lot. Stick to smaller, family-run restaurants for more affordable and authentic meals.
Connect with Locals and the Community
- Venetians have a strong sense of community. To become a part of it, try to get to know your neighbors, visit local markets, and go to neighborhood events. Many Venetians prefer to shop at small, family-owned stores and meet at local cafes, so you can meet people and practice your Italian.
- There are also groups and clubs in Venice where you can meet both locals and other foreigners. Joining a class, a club, or even volunteering can help you make friends and feel more at home.
Respect Venice’s Unique Culture and Traditions
- Venice has a rich history and a unique way of life. Shops may close for long lunch breaks, and some businesses might not open on Sundays. It’s important to adapt to these local customs and be patient if things move at a slower pace.
- Venetians take pride in their city and its traditions. Be mindful of noise, litter, and other behaviors that might disturb the local way of life. For example, don’t sit on steps or bridges to eat, and always clean up after yourself.
Be Ready for Some Challenges
- Life in Venice can be challenging. The city is old and has its quirks, like dampness in houses, lots of stairs, and occasional flooding. Streets can get busy with tourists, especially in summer. Be patient, and try to see these things as part of the city’s charm.
- Over time, you’ll learn how to get around these challenges, and they will feel like less of an inconvenience.
Explore Beyond the Main Islands
- Venice is not just its main island; the city is surrounded by other beautiful islands like Murano (famous for glass-making), Burano (known for colorful houses), and Torcello (with historical landmarks). Exploring these islands can give you a break from the busy tourist areas and help you discover new parts of Venetian life.
- Venice is also close to mainland cities like Mestre, Padua, and Verona, which are perfect for day trips by train.
Moving to Venice is a special experience, full of history, beautiful sights, and a way of life you won’t find anywhere else. While there may be some challenges, like getting used to the canals and the slower pace, the beauty and charm of Venice make it all worth it. By knowing what to expect, you’ll be ready to enjoy living in this amazing city.
