- Don’t Feed the Gabbiani (Seagulls)
- Don’t Feed the Pigeons in St. Mark’s Square
- Don’t Swim in the Canals
- Don’t Forget to Validate Your Ticket
- Don’t Bring Large Suitcases
- Don’t Block the Narrow Streets
- Don’t Touch the Boats or Gondolas
- Don’t Forget to Plan for High Tide (Acqua Alta)
- Don’t Bargain for Gondola Prices
- Don’t Leave Litter Behind
- Don’t Overlook the Smaller Islands
There are thousands of people who will tell you what to do, what to watch, and what to eat in Venice. But no one will tell you what you shouldn’t do in Venice. These are the things that often make the locals angry. From my personal experience of living in this beautiful city, I will explain every single thing you should avoid doing in Venice. These tips will not only help you enjoy your trip more but also ensure that you respect the local culture and avoid common mistakes.
Don’t Feed the Gabbiani (Seagulls)
One of the big mistakes many tourists make is feeding the seagulls, or gabbiani, in Venice. While they might seem harmless or even fun to watch, feeding these birds can quickly turn into a nightmare. The gabbiani are known for being aggressive and will swoop down to grab food from your hands, sometimes even knocking things over in the process.
The city has put up signs warning against feeding seagulls, and it’s something that really bothers the locals. These birds create messes, disturb the peaceful atmosphere, and can even ruin the charm of Venice’s beautiful squares and outdoor cafés. To avoid contributing to the problem (and to prevent your snack from being stolen), it’s best to enjoy watching the gabbiani from a distance without offering them food.
Don’t Feed the Pigeons in St. Mark’s Square
St. Mark’s Square is iconic, and many tourists are drawn to the large number of pigeons flying around. Feeding them might seem fun, but it’s actually against the law in Venice. The pigeons can cause damage to the historic buildings, and feeding them only makes the problem worse. You can be fined if you’re caught feeding them, so it’s better to admire them from a distance.
Don’t Swim in the Canals
The canals are what make Venice famous, but they’re not meant for swimming. The water might look inviting, especially on a hot day, but it’s not clean, and it can be dangerous. Swimming in the canals is not only unsafe, but it’s also illegal, and you could get fined. Stick to enjoying the canals from a boat, waterbus, or by walking along them.
Don’t Forget to Validate Your Ticket
Venice’s waterbuses (called vaporetto) are a popular way to get around, but many tourists forget one important thing—validating their ticket before boarding. There are machines at the stops where you can scan your ticket. Failing to do this can result in a fine, even if you’ve paid for your ticket. If you didn’t scan it, you could be fined 50 euros. Always make sure to validate your ticket before boarding any public transportation in Venice to avoid this penalty.
Don’t Bring Large Suitcases
Dragging huge suitcases through Venice is not only difficult due to the narrow streets and bridges, but it’s also frowned upon. The city has many steps, and large suitcases can cause a lot of inconvenience to you and others around you. Venice is best explored with lighter luggage, and many locals recommend packing only the essentials. If you bring large suitcases on the vaporetto, they can block the way of other passengers. It’s best to travel light to ensure everyone can move easily and comfortably.
Don’t Block the Narrow Streets
Venice has many small, narrow alleyways and streets.One of the most important things to remember in Venice is not to block the narrow streets.This is incredibly irritating for those who work in the city. Don’t just stop to gossip in the middle of the street; many people are in a hurry to get to their jobs. There are also delivery services bringing vegetables, fish, and food, and they need to navigate these tight spaces. So when you’re in Venice, be mindful of your surroundings and try not to block the street. If you hear someone shout “attenzione,” which means “watch out,” it’s a signal for you to move aside and let them pass.
Don’t Touch the Boats or Gondolas
While the gondolas and boats floating along the canals are beautiful, they are not for touching unless you’re boarding one. Gondolas, in particular, are works of art, and the gondoliers work hard to keep them looking nice. Touching the boats, sitting on them, or leaning too close to the water can be dangerous and disrespectful. If you want a closer experience, take a gondola ride, but always respect the property.
Don’t Forget to Plan for High Tide (Acqua Alta)
Venice is known for its occasional floods, called acqua alta. This happens especially in the fall and winter. It’s important to check the forecast and plan ahead for high tide. Walking through flooded areas without proper waterproof shoes can ruin your day. Fortunately, there are raised walkways when the water rises, and you can buy rain boots if needed. Be prepared, and it won’t be a problem!
Don’t Bargain for Gondola Prices
Gondola rides are one of Venice’s most iconic experiences, but they can be expensive. The prices are set by the city, so haggling or trying to bargain for a cheaper ride isn’t common practice. Instead, check the rates before you go and decide if the experience is worth it for you. If the cost is too high, you can always consider sharing a gondola with other tourists or taking a ride during the day when prices are slightly lower.
Don’t Leave Litter Behind
Venice is a city that takes cleanliness very seriously, especially because of its historic beauty. There are many trash bins around the city, so make sure to use them. Leaving trash on the streets, in the canals, or near monuments is disrespectful and can lead to fines. Help keep Venice clean by always disposing of your waste properly.
Don’t Overlook the Smaller Islands
Many tourists stick to the main island of Venice and forget about the other nearby islands like Murano, Burano, and Torcello. These islands are full of culture, charm, and beauty and offer a more relaxed experience compared to the busy center. Murano is famous for glassmaking, Burano for its colorful houses and lace, and Torcello for its quiet, ancient atmosphere. Don’t miss out on these gems!
Venice is a magical place, but it comes with its own set of rules that help preserve its beauty and ensure that everyone, locals and visitors alike, can enjoy it. By following these tips and avoiding common tourist mistakes, you’ll have a smoother and more respectful experience in the city. Remember, Venice is not just a place to see but a city to experience fully and respectfully. Enjoy every moment, and let the city’s magic leave a lasting impression on you!
