How to Enjoy and Respect Venice

Venice is a unique city, unlike any other in the world, and it requires more than just simple respect. Visiting Venice is not like visiting bustling metropolises such as New York or Singapore. Its delicate and fragile ecosystem needs protection through the promotion of sustainable tourism.

To preserve the beauty of our city and to help tourists understand its uniqueness, the Municipality of Venice launched the hashtag #EnjoyRespectVenezia during the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development. If you share photos of your Venice trip on Instagram and want to support this cause, feel free to use this hashtag.

To contribute to this initiative, we’ve put together a brief guide on how to experience and enjoy Venice to the fullest while respecting the city. Follow these four simple rules:

1. WALK ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE STREETS

Venice’s streets, known as “calli,” are narrow. With the influx of tourists each year, it can be difficult for residents to go about their daily activities, such as shopping. Similar to driving a car, try to stay on the right side of the calle. This helps maintain the flow of pedestrian traffic, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their visit.

2. WEAR COMFORTABLE SHOES

Walking is a significant part of the Venetian experience. Even if you plan to use the vaporetto for transportation, you will still need to walk to various attractions. Comfortable shoes are essential.

Venice boasts over 400 bridges, including the iconic Rialto Bridge, which you won’t want to miss crossing.

3. DON’T EAT ON THE STREET

Venice is not an amusement park; it is a historic city that deserves your respect. If you prefer not to dine in a restaurant, consider eating your meal in one of the city’s beautiful parks or gardens. Alternatively, stop by a typical bacaro to enjoy a traditional Venetian snack paired with a spritz.

4. DON’T BE AFRAID TO GET LOST

Last but not least: embrace the adventure of wandering off the beaten path! Getting lost in Venice allows you to discover a different side of the city, one that you won’t find in guidebooks or online. There are many hidden gems to uncover, even if you only have a couple of days to explore.

By following these guidelines, you can enjoy Venice to its fullest while also contributing to the preservation of this magnificent city.