The City of Venice website has FAQs on the Access Fee that explain everything you need to know before arriving.

Who is Exempt from the Access Fee?

Several groups are exempt from paying the fee:

• Residents of the Municipality of Venice

• Visitors born in the Municipality of Venice

• Minors under 14

• Holders of the European Disability Card and their companions

• Armed Forces and Law Enforcement personnel (including Fire Brigade personnel)

• Workers, students, and family members of those who have paid property taxes in Venice

• Residents in the Veneto Region

• People in need of medical care

• Participants in sports competitions

• Spouses, partners, and close relatives of residents

Exempt individuals still need to apply for exemption on the portal.

Fine

To ensure compliance, the Municipal Administration conducts checks at key access points. Those who fail to comply with the regulations may face fines ranging from €50 to €300, plus the €10 entry fee. There are additional penalties for false declarations and document falsification.

Now that you're well-prepared with the new Access Fee system, it's time to explore Venice beyond the basics. Discover how you can make the most of your visit through 'Detourism'—a concept that encourages exploring hidden gems and experiencing the city like a local.

Detourism

Venice is one of the most visited cities globally, known for landmarks like Saint Mark’s Square, the Rialto Bridge, and the Grand Canal. However, there’s more to Venice than meets the eye. The Detourism campaign encourages travellers to explore beyond the usual tourist spots.

It promotes slow and sustainable tourism, inviting visitors to discover hidden treasures and experience Venice from a local perspective. Venture to serene islands and quaint villages, where unique museums offer a glimpse into authentic Venetian life. Families can enjoy bike trips on Lido or Pellestrina, surrounded by protected natural areas perfect for birdwatching and outdoor activities.

On the mainland, places like Mestre and Forte Marghera offer beautiful parks, urban trekking paths, cycle routes, and historic forts. These areas blend nature, history, and culture, providing a different perspective on Venice.

Detourism invites you to discover a deeper, more connected experience of Venice, away from the crowds and into the heart of local life.

Walking Art & Culture Tours

Sure, everyone knows St. Mark's Square, but there's more to the city! Venture beyond the tourist crowds and discover lively neighbourhoods like Dorsoduro, San Polo, and Santa Croce. Our walking tours lead you through these hidden gems, showcasing the real Venice where locals live, and art thrives. 

Parks and Natural Reserves

Venice may surprise you with its green spaces. In the heart of the city, you’ll find public parks and historic gardens such as the Napoleonic Gardens and the Papadopoli Gardens. Beyond the main islands, places like Lido and Pellestrina offer beautiful natural reserves, perfect for birdwatching and peaceful walks. Just a short distance away, San Giuliano Park on the mainland boasts vast fields and lagoon views, ideal for a day outdoors.

Food & Wine Tours

Venice’s cuisine is a journey in itself. Detourism encourages travellers to eat like locals. You can try traditional dishes such as sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines) or risotto al nero di seppia (squid ink risotto) at authentic bacari (wine bars) and trattorias.

Follow the Cicchetti trail in Venice’s historic districts. Here, you'll find small plates of seafood and local specialties served with regional wines, offering a taste of Venetian cuisine at its best. A food tour lets you immerse in local culture while enjoying delicious, sustainable dining.

The Other Venice

Discover the lesser-known islands of the lagoon, each with its unique charm. Visit fishing and farming villages, participate in traditional festivals, and try local activities like fishing. Explore islands such as Torcello, Sant'Erasmo, Mazzorbo, and many others by foot, bike, or boat.

The Venice North Lagoon on Foot or by Boat

Explore the Venice North Lagoon on foot or by boat. Walk along scenic paths to enjoy beautiful views. Take a boat tour to discover hidden gems and quiet spots. Visit the tranquil lagoons of Mazzorbo, Torcello, and Burano.

Enjoy birdwatching and see the unique wildlife in these areas. Experience the serene atmosphere and natural beauty of the North Lagoon, with its peaceful waters and charming islands.

Detourism offers a glimpse into Venice's authentic charm, encouraging exploration beyond the typical tourist spots. As you delve deeper into the city’s hidden gems, consider how sustainable tourism practices can preserve Venice’s unique beauty. The Sustainable Venice section provides insights into eco-friendly activities that respect the local environment and community.

Fishing Tourism

Experience the city like a local by trying fishing tourism. It's a slow, sustainable holiday idea. Spend a day with fishermen, hear their stories, and watch them haul in nets.

Learn the art of fishing firsthand. This unique experience lets you see Venice and its lagoon through the eyes of those who have lived and worked there.

On Burano Island, join the Fishing Tourism venture. It promotes alternative tourism, showcasing the North Lagoon's natural beauty. Choose between two itineraries: explore the Adriatic's coral reefs and mussel farms or catch whitebait and crabs in the Mazzorbo and Torcello areas. Discover clam farms and lagoon birdlife in the Palude del Monte area.

The Sustainable Tourism Charter

Discover a lesser-known Venice – the beautiful lagoon. Explore Venice’s Northern Lagoon sustainably with the Sustainable Tourism Charter. 

This charter promotes responsible tourism operators who respect the lagoon's traditions and environment. Over 20 businesses are included, offering boat trips, island visits, restaurants, farms, and shops.

The charter guides you to hidden gems while respecting the environment and local way of life. Exploring the northern lagoon is a journey to the soul of Venice and its ecosystem. The charter is free in both paper and digital formats

Sustainably experience Venice with these tips. Opt for eco-friendly activities and immerse yourself in the local culture. Embrace slow tourism to truly appreciate the city's unique charm and natural beauty.

Venice is increasingly accessible to people with limited mobility. The historic city has around 14 kilometers of pedestrian paths and ramps installed on many bridges. Public transport also provides concessions for those with mobility challenges.

Visitors with physical disabilities can rent wheelchairs from medical retailers in Mestre and Venice. It’s recommended to book this service about 10 days in advance. For details, visit the “Wheelchair rental” page in the “Disability” section of the Municipality of Venice’s official website.

"Itineraries without barriers" are designed for wheelchair users and cover Venice's most spots. These routes, designed with input from locals who face mobility challenges, guide visitors through the city’s distinct geography.

Venice is amazing all year round, but the best time for you depends on what you're looking for!

The best time to visit Venice is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November). The weather is pleasant, and the city is less crowded. Summer can be very hot and crowded, with higher prices.

Winter is quieter and cheaper, but it can be cold and damp. If you want to experience Venice’s famous Carnival, visit in February. Plan your trip based on what you enjoy: warm weather and festivals in spring and fall, or a peaceful, budget-friendly winter visit. Each season has its own charm in Venice.

The best way to visit Venice is on foot or by boat. Venice has no cars, so walking is the main way to explore its narrow streets and canals. Water buses (vaporettos) and gondolas are great for getting around and seeing the sights from the water.

Buy a multi-day Vaporetto pass for convenience. For a unique experience, take a gondola ride. Enjoy the charm of Venice by leisurely strolling and boating through this magical city.

Know Before You Go

Tips for visiting Venice

Do:

• Take a guided tour of Venice to learn about its rich history and culture.

• Book skip-the-line tickets for main attractions

• Respect local customs and traditions.

• Explore beyond the main sights

• Dispose of trash properly to keep the city clean.

• Do pack layers 

• Walk on the right side of the narrow streets.

• Use reusable water bottles to reduce plastic waste.

• Enjoy local cuisine and support small, local businesses.

• Learn a few basic Italian phrases

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking.

Don't:

• Don’t litter or feed the pigeons.

• Overspend on gondola rides

• Don't overpack

• Avoid sitting on the steps of bridges or monuments.

• Refrain from swimming in the canals.

• Don’t use wheeled suitcases on stairs; carry them instead.

• Avoid loud behaviour, especially at night.

• Avoid blocking narrow walkways while taking photos.

With these Venice travel tips, you’re well-prepared to explore the city like a local. From understanding the new access fee to discovering hidden gems and enjoying local cuisine, your trip to Venice will be both enriching and memorable.