Getting around Venice is simpler than what may seem initially. Here are a few suggestions.
ON FOOT
Given its size, Venice is a rambler’s delight. Visiting it on foot is perhaps the best way for getting to know it thoroughly and enjoying the discovery of its many secluded and picturesque spots. With a good map, “getting lost” among its bridges, small and large squares and canal sidewalks where the average tourist “fears to tread” can be fun and a great way for discovering the true spirit of the city.
 Routine itineraries are marked by yellow signs on the buildings. Always keep to the right along the narrower calli and avoid idling on bridges. Venice may even be visited during high tide thanks to secure gangplanks conveniently arranged along the main routes.
For high-tide bulletins access the Municipal Tide Centre website or call 041.2411996.
CROSSING WATERWAYS
- Vaporetti municipal public transport ferries; look out for the acronym “’ACTV” at the stops and on the sides of the vaporetti) are a very popular means of transport.
The “Hello Venezia” website offers exhaustive information on vaporetti timetables, lines and charges. ACTV tickets may be purchased at the embarcaderos or VE.LA. points. There are different fares so look out for the one that best suits you. Always remember to buy the ticket before boarding as there are no ticket sales on board. Tickets purchased from tobacconists, newspaper kiosks, bars must always be punched in the special machine before boarding. In case of boarding without a ticket, promptly inform the operator: You’ll be charged extra but at least you’ll have avoided having to pay a fine!
Attention: never lose sight of the fact that you are travelling on a floating vessel and hence that onboard rules, regulations and instructions must be strictly complied with at all times for mutual safety. Never clutter exits with bags or luggage. Keep an eye out for signs and billboards and the names of the stops to be sure you’ve caught the right vaporetto and are heading in the desired direction.
- Traghetti (fording gondolas) are a convenient and affordable way for traversing the Grand Canal without having to walk as far as one of the three bridges. Venetians especially patronise this means of transport. These ferries may be found at the following fording points along the Grand Canal: San Marcuola, Santa Sofia, San Tomà, San Samuele, Santa Maria del Giglio, Dogana (crossing temporarily suspended until works on the embankment are finished). A one-way crossing costs 50 euro cents.
- Water taxis are inboard motor boats, identifiable by the license to run the service printed on a yellow strip of paper attached on the inside of the windscreen.
- Gondolas are without a doubt the most romantic way for getting about the City of Canals. Fares are quoted in the official site of the Gondola Preservation and Gondolier Protection Society.
 VENICECARD !
Venicecard is a special card issued by the Municipality offering visitors amazing advantages and discounts. It can be collected at any arrival point and offers 1 – 3 - 7 days free travel on any means of public transport, free access to all Town Museums, to the Casino, to all children’s nurseries, and to toilets with service personnel in attendance. Holders are also granted priority parking at special rates, as well as special rates to visit culture venues and for tickets to shows and events. In a nutshell, it’s a pass for getting the best for the least out of the city.
Information taken from the Comune di Venezia web site.
Access the site for details: www.comune.venezia.it. |
