From Marco Polo Airport (VCE), you can take a bus to Piazzale Roma (Venice's bus terminal) or a water taxi directly to your hotel if it's on a canal. The Alilaguna water bus is another scenic option.

Absolutely! Venice is a pedestrian city. The primary mode of transport is walking and using the Vaporetto (water bus) system. Many travelers find it very walkable. +1

The Vaporetto water bus system is the most convenient way to travel between Venice and its surrounding islands. Consider purchasing a multi-day pass if you plan on island hopping.

The Vaporetto is Venice's public water bus. You can purchase tickets at stations or tabacchi shops. Validate your ticket before boarding. Route 1 runs the length of the Grand Canal, offering great views. +1

Google Maps can be helpful, but be aware that it might sometimes direct you to dead ends or require crossing the Grand Canal via bridges, which can add significant time. It's best used in conjunction with a general sense of direction.

Yes, booking tickets for St. Mark's Basilica online in advance is highly recommended to avoid long queues, especially during peak season.

The Venice City Pass can be worthwhile if you plan to visit multiple museums and attractions. Research the included sites and compare the pass price to individual ticket costs for your planned itinerary.

Standard gondola rides typically cost around €80-€120 for 30 minutes, with higher prices after 7 PM. However, you can experience a short gondola crossing for just €2 using the 'traghetto' public service. +1

Many churches are free to enter (though some may charge for specific areas like the treasury), and simply wandering the streets and canals is a wonderful free experience. St. Mark's Square is also free to explore.

Opening hours vary, but major attractions like Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Basilica are generally open daily from morning to late afternoon/early evening. Always check the official websites for the most up-to-date information.

Seek out Libreria Acqua Alta for its unique book storage, Palazzo Grimani for its art and quiet atmosphere, and San Pantalon church for its massive painting. Getting lost in less-touristed sestieri like Cannaregio or Dorsoduro also reveals hidden treasures. +1

Visit during the off-season, explore early in the morning or late in the evening, and venture away from the main tourist hubs like San Marco and Rialto. Consider visiting islands like Torcello for a quieter experience. +2

Cicchetti are small Venetian tapas, often served with a glass of wine (ombra). Try them at bacari (traditional bars) in areas like Cannaregio or Dorsoduro for an authentic local experience.

Yes, Venice is generally very safe at night. The city becomes much quieter and more atmospheric after the day-trippers leave. Stick to well-lit areas if you're concerned. +1

Beyond masks and Murano glass, consider authentic Venetian shoes, handmade paper products, or local food items. Libreria Acqua Alta offers a unique book-buying experience.

Some travelers advise caution with pizza, as wood-burning ovens are banned, potentially affecting flavor. It's also wise to avoid restaurants with aggressive touts on the street or menus with pictures.

Venture away from the main tourist areas like Rialto and San Marco. Look for 'bacari' for cicchetti and local wine, or seek out trattorias in less crowded sestieri. +1

Try 'Sarde in Saor' (sweet and sour sardines), 'Risi e Bisi' (rice and peas), 'Fegato alla Veneziana' (liver with onions), and of course, cicchetti. Seafood is generally excellent.

Dining in Venice can be expensive, especially in tourist hotspots. Eating cicchetti and drinking 'ombra' (small glass of wine) at local bacari is a more budget-friendly option. +1

While traditional Venetian cuisine is meat and seafood-heavy, many restaurants are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan options. Look for dishes featuring vegetables, pasta, and risotto.

Beyond the iconic Rialto Bridge and St. Mark's Square, explore the colorful island of Burano, the charming canals of Cannaregio, and the lesser-known alleyways for unique shots. The Ponte Chiodo is a unique, un-railed bridge.

Early mornings and late evenings offer the best light and fewer crowds, making for more atmospheric and less obstructed photos. Golden hour before sunset is particularly magical.

Yes, several companies offer photography tours that take you to hidden spots and provide guidance on capturing the best of Venice. This can be a great way to discover unique perspectives.

Experiment with different angles, capture reflections in the water, and try to include elements like gondolas or historic buildings to tell a story. Be patient for moments when the canals are less crowded.

Photography policies vary by church. Some allow it freely, while others may restrict it or charge a fee. Always check for signage or ask permission before taking photos inside religious buildings.