Venice travel guide — where to stay, what to do, and where to eat in Venice, Veneto, Italy.
Venice has very low violent crime. The main risks are pickpocketing in crowded areas and tourist-targeted pricing scams. Acqua alta (tidal flooding) affects low-lying areas Nov-March and requires rubber boots. The lagoon can be dangerous for unprepared swimmers.
Current safety advisory
Very Safe — One Of Italy's Safest Cities
Essential safety tips
Practical advice that applies everywhere.
Keep copies of important documents (passport, insurance) in separate locations.
Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots.
Use registered taxis or rideshare apps. Avoid unmarked vehicles offering rides.
Trust your instincts — if a situation feels wrong, remove yourself from it.
Common scams to avoid
Recognise and sidestep tourist-targeted scams.
Health considerations
Staying healthy on your trip.
- Items
- Topic
- Water
- Info
- Tap water is safe to drink. Public drinking fountains (fontanelle) across Venice dispense free safe water — fill bottles to avoid buying plastic.
- Topic
- Pharmacy
- Info
- Pharmacies (farmacie — green cross sign) are common. After-hours rotation posted in all pharmacy windows. Farmacia Internazionale at Calle della Mandola, San Marco, stocks English-language products.
- Topic
- Heat
- Info
- Venice in July-August can be hot and humid (35°C+/95°F). Carry water, wear sunscreen, and avoid midday queuing.
- Topic
- Flooding
- Info
- During acqua alta, wear waterproof boots or purchase disposable plastic boots at shops near flood-prone areas for ~€3 (~$3.30).
- Topic
- EHIC / Medical
- Info
- EU citizens: carry EHIC card for free/reduced care at Ospedale Civile. Non-EU visitors: travel insurance with medical cover is strongly recommended.
Safety for specific travellers
Tailored advice for different groups.
Emergency contacts
Numbers to know before you go.
- Items