✅ 20+ Free activities in Venice: tips and info
Although Venice is considered one of the most expensive cities in Italy, it is also affordable for budget-conscious travellers. There are still many activities that you can do either for free or for a bit of money, making it a confident choice for your travel plans.
That’s not so bad after all! Embrace the lifestyle of the locals, which is not only cheap but also a unique and intriguing experience!
Here is a map with Venice’s most essential free and cheap activities!
From exploring enchanting churches to browsing unique bookshops, Venice offers a diverse range of free activities that will enrich your travel experience.
Things to know before you travel to Venice
Before you travel to Venice, you need to find out about the current admission prices. A small entrance fee has been charged in Venice since 2024!
You can find all information about the entrance fees for Venice here on the corresponding page.
Overnight guests do not have to pay the fee if it is included in the tourist tax of the accommodation.
Public transportation in Venice
You might only have to reach into your pocket and spend some money on a public transportation card.
The local transport card for Venice is a must, especially if you are staying on the mainland and want to visit Venice every day. It saves you money and offers convenient access to the city’s extensive public transport network.
Public transportation in Venice also runs to the enchanting islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello. These islands offer unique experiences that budget travellers should take note of. A trip to these islands can change your stay in Venice, especially if you spend several days on the main island.
✅ Depending on the time of year, a walk through Venice can be very strenuous, especially in the summer heat. In such cases, the water bus is a welcome change, offering a refreshing ride around and through the island, such as the cool breeze on the Grand Canal.
My favourite cheap hotels in Venice
Accommodation can be one of the most expensive items in your budget. Especially in high season, hotels or Airbnb accommodation prices are usually very high. Here is a short list of cheap hotels you can book in Venice.
– Hotel Antiche Figure: Opposite the station with friendly staff.
– Albergo Marin: Inexpensive hotel near the Grand Canal and the train station.
– Ostello S. Fosca: Centrally located in Venice.
I have also compiled a list of hotels that are not in the city centre and offer very reasonable prices, especially in the low season.
✅ Secure your transfer from Marco Polo Airport to Venice by bus or water cab in advance to ensure a smooth arrival.
Book your airport transfer now
The best of Venice without spending a lot of money
Venice offers plenty of opportunities for a fantastic time, even on a limited budget.
Travelling through Venice on foot and experiencing the city’s unique architecture is an inexpensive, adventurous, and curious way to experience its charm.
Being aware of the critical things that can cost money in Venice is essential. Monitor your spending to ensure you stay within your budget.
Paid activities – Top 5
Of course, this article is intended to introduce you to activities that you can do in Venice for free or for little money.
However, if you have a little more money, here are the best paid activities in Venice that are most worthwhile:
– A concert in Venice – To the booking
– Reserved entry to the Doge’s Palace – To the booking
– Gondola ride on the Grand Canal – To the booking
– Day trip to Murano, Burano and Torcello – To the booking
– Workshop “Make your own mask” – To the booking
Important free activities in Venice
➡️ St. Mark’s Square
St. Mark’s Square, the most renowned and distinctive square in Venice, offers a unique experience. The view of the Doge’s Palace, St. Mark’s Basilica, and the Campanile, all from the centre of the square, is a sight to behold. The square’s atmosphere, filled with tourists from around the globe, is truly extraordinary. And if you take a moment to look out over the bay, you can enjoy a brief respite while watching the boats pass by.
💸 It’s important to note that the cafés around St. Mark’s Square are known for their high prices. Keep this in mind when planning your visit.
Preserving the charm of the square is a collective responsibility. By adhering to its rules, such as avoiding sitting on the ground, feeding the pigeons, or buying counterfeit goods from street vendors, you show respect for this iconic place. Your actions will help maintain its beauty for future visitors, and you’ll feel a sense of responsibility towards this cultural landmark.
📍 P. Za San Marco, 30100 Venezia VE, Italy
Information about St. Mark’s Square
➡️ Basilica of San Marco
Although there is a small entrance fee of €3, the experience you will have is worth it and makes it a great offer for you.
Expect queues, which usually move relatively quickly, with an average waiting time of 15 to 20 minutes. Otherwise you will have to buy skip-the-line tickets for fast-track entry.
As soon as you enter the basilica, you will be amazed by the artistic beauty of the golden mosaics.
Backpacks and large luggage are not permitted inside. Use the free luggage storage outside.
✅ Dress conservatively, as you will have to buy a cover for €2 if you wear inappropriate clothing.
📍 P. Za San Marco, 328, 30100 Venezia VE, Italy
All information about St. Mark’s Basilica
➡️ Rialto Bridge
The famous bridge, omnipresent on postcards and pictures of Venice, is best experienced in the early morning. Then you can enjoy its beauty without the hustle and bustle of the crowds.
✅ Get ready for a unique perspective of the bridge! You can take a photo from a canal footbridge or a vaporetto water bus passing under the bridge. This is not only a photo opportunity but also a chance to capture the essence of Venice. Make souvenirs that will last a lifetime!
Did you know that the stores on the bridge initially helped the locals finance the construction of the bridge? This fascinating piece of history can still be seen today as these stores now cater to tourists.
➡️ Rialto Market
This historic market, a rare gem and one of the last in Venice, is a must-visit for any traveler.
Arriving in the morning, you’ll be treated to a unique sight-locals bustling about, selecting the freshest fish, fruit, and vegetables for their day. Joining in and picking up something for your own lunch or snack is not just a good idea, it’s a chance to feel part of the local life. And the best part? You can enjoy high-quality food at prices that won’t break the bank, making you feel financially savvy and smart.
By taking advantage of the cheap deals on the market, you can save your budget for a luxurious dinner out. It’s not just about saving money, it’s about the excitement of planning for a sumptuous meal, making the most of your money and your visit to Venice!
📍 Calle Prima de la Donzella, 306, 30125 Venezia VE, Italy
➡️ Views from the Accademia Bridge
Cross the Ponte dell’Accademia to enjoy one of the best views of Venice and look down the Grand Canal to the Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute.
The Gallerie dell’Accademia charges admission, but is open to the public free of charge on the first Sunday of the month.
📍 Campo S. Vidal, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy
Free activities in Venice off the beaten track
➡️ Giardini – Enjoy the gardens of Venice
A stark contrast to the city’s hustle and bustle, Venice’s gardens offer an oasis of calm. Strolling along the breathtaking architecture, catching a glimpse of the Grand Canal, and then finding yourself in one of these tranquil gardens is a fascinating experience!
While the Giardini della Biennale is full of life during the Biennale season, the Remembrance Park offers a quiet retreat. Its shady areas make it the perfect place for a peaceful picnic.
📍 Calle Giazzo, 30122 Venezia VE, Italy
➡️ Gondola spotting
This activity is fun and free of charge. Find a picturesque bridge and enjoy the sight of the passing gondolas.
Gondolas are an indispensable part of Venetian culture and offer a unique sight. Venice is the only place in the world where you can still find these authentic gondolas, which makes your experience even more exclusive.
✅ This activity is not only free, but also easily accessible. You don’t need to plan or book anything in advance. Just find a bridge, sit back and enjoy the view. Some might argue that it’s even nicer than paying for a ride. So why not give it a try?
If you would like to treat yourself to a ride in a gondola, you will find all the information you need here!
Information gondola trips Venice
➡️ Basilica Santa Maria della Salute
This beautiful church can be visited from the inside free of charge. It can be seen on many postcards. It is a very special experience. Considering that the Doge’s Palace is quite expensive and the queue in front of St. Mark’s Basilica is always very long, this could be a good alternative!
✅ As with other churches, you have to dress conservatively to get in without any problems. Otherwise, if you have luggage, one person from the group will have to wait outside with everyone else’s things.
📍 Dorsoduro, 1, 30123 Venezia VE, Italy
➡️ Church of San Giorgio Maggiore
This church is like an art gallery whose walls are adorned with paintings.
Admission is free of charge. An additional €6 is charged for the ascent to the bell tower. Compared to the Campanile on St. Mark’s Square, this is still relatively cheap, and the view of Venice is well worth it.
📍 Isola di San Giorgio Maggiore 2, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy
➡️ Glass exhibition in the “Stanze del Vetro”
Behind the church of San Giorgio Maggiore, this museum offers free guided tours of its exhibitions.
The guided tours in English take place daily at 11 am. Registration is not required.
📍 Isola di San Giorgio Maggiore, 8, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy
➡️ Museum of Music History
The museum is located in the church of San Maurizio and houses a collection of historical musical instruments as well as a section on the composer Vivaldi.
It is open daily and audio guides are available for a small fee.
📍 S. Marco, 2603, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy
➡️ Explore the Jewish ghetto quarter
This historic quarter is quiet and atmospheric. Stroll through the streets and immerse yourself in the history and culture of the Jewish ghetto.
As it is located outside the city centre, it is quieter and there are also cheaper hotels. With a day pass for public transport, the connection to the rest of the city is good.
Article about Cannaregio – The Jewish quarter
➡️ Acqua Alta Book Shop
A famous second-hand bookshop with unique photo motifs.
A visit in the morning is quieter, as the queues outside the bookshop are not as long.
✅ This is also a tip in my article about insider tips in Venice.
📍 C. Longa Santa Maria Formosa, 5176b, 30122 Venezia VE, Italy
Article – Insider tips in Venice
➡️ Window shopping & 360 degree view
When exploring Venice, be sure to visit the stores that sell handmade Venetian products such as carnival masks and Murano glass. These souvenirs are not only a nice reminder of your vacation, but also a way to support the local artisans who produce these authentic goods.
✅ For a truly exclusive shopping experience, you should visit T Fondaco dei Tedeschi by DFS, the largest shopping centre in Venice. Here you will find a carefully selected range of luxury brands that will make you feel special. The building itself is a sight to behold and the terrace offers a unique view that is well worth the reservation.
📍 Calle del Fontego dei Tedeschi, Ponte di Rialto, 30100 Venezia VE, Italy
View from the shopping centre – Reservation
➡️ Visit to the Venice Arsenal
This former shipyard is of crucial importance for the maritime history of Venice.
Exhibitions are held here during the Biennale, but you can also visit the shipyard from the outside.
➡️ Film Locations in Venice
With its unique charm, Venice has already served as a fascinating backdrop in numerous films. The city is not just a city but also an open-air museum, which has served as the backdrop for many Hollywood films and thus contributed to its appeal.
✅ Embark on a thrilling journey to discover Venice’s various iconic film locations, from the action-packed scenes in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade to the thrilling backdrops in The Talented Mr. Ripley. Venice’s versatility as a film set is also evident in movies such as The Tourist with Johnny Depp, adding an extra layer of excitement to the city’s appeal.
With my comprehensive travel guide, finding the filming locations in Venice will be a breeze. You’ll be able to easily recognize the famous locations from your favourite films, making your visit unforgettable and enjoyable, and giving you a sense of confidence and preparedness.
Free activities in the Venice lagoon
That’s why it’s so important to get that transportation ticket I mentioned at the beginning. Staying on the main island is one thing, but exploring the surrounding islands is a bigger adventure.
The boat trip alone is a great experience. When you arrive, it’s like being immersed in another world. It’s an essential part of any complete trip to Venice.
➡️ Burano
Burano, with its unique charm of colorful houses and lacework, is a destination that will surely delight you. It’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the main island and snap some stunning photos for your Instagram to create lasting memories of your visit.
The Lace Museum, with its modest entrance fee of €6.00, is an excellent place for anyone interested in needlework. However, if you are not an enthusiast, watching the lace makers at work in the stores will be enough for your first visit.
➡️ Murano
Murano is famous for its glassmaking and offers free demonstrations in some factories. Many stores display these incredible glasses, masterpieces of the island’s tradition. The glassmaking tradition is still very much present on the island, which you will notice as soon as you arrive.
Now that you’ve saved a little money thanks to this article, you may have some extra cash to buy one of these famous glasses, which are surprisingly affordable, to take home.
➡️ Lido Beach Day
Enjoy the miles of sandy beaches on the Lido, a unique combination of city break and relaxation on the beach. A great idea is to stay on the Lido, which costs less. With the vaporetto transportation card, you can easily reach the main island, ensuring a smooth and comfortable travel experience.
Another great and inexpensive activity is a bike tour on the Lido. Bikes can be rented cheaply and are a great way to explore the island’s nature. If you prefer an organized experience, you can also take part in guided bike tours that offer a unique view of the island’s beauty.
Bonus: Free activity in Venice
➡️ Take to the road
One of the best ways to experience Venice is to stroll through the streets and get lost. Just wander aimlessly and discover the charm of the side streets. For a quieter experience, head out early in the morning or late in the evening when the tourist crowds are fewer. Explore quiet alleyways, hidden archways and breathtaking views.
✅ A walk through Venice at night is a sublime experience, offering beautiful canal reflections and a peaceful atmosphere with few boats.
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