🚫 How to Avoid Tourist Traps in Venice
🕵️♂️ A few local tips can save you time, money, and a disappointing meal. Here’s what to skip — and what to seek.
Venice is unforgettable — but yes, it has its share of overpriced menus and fake “authentic” experiences. Here’s how to stay one step ahead:
🍽️ Dining
Avoid places with menus full of photos or staff outside calling you in.
Be cautious of restaurants right on Rialto Bridge or San Marco Square (unless you know what you're going for — like a spritz with a view, not a full dinner).
Look for short menus in Italian only — usually a sign of real local cooking.
🎭 Shopping
Skip “Murano-style” glass sold for €5 — it's made abroad. Real Murano glass has a Vetro Artistico® Murano sticker.
Handcrafted masks are not sold at souvenir stands. Try Ca’ del Sol or small artisan shops.
🚤 Transport
Gondola rides are magical but fixed price. Check ACTV’s official fare guidelines before boarding — don’t haggle or pay extra for a standard route.
Vaporetto passes are better value than buying single tickets — and safer than relying on scalpers.
🧭 My Tip: Go one street beyond the busy main path — that’s where the real Venice lives. That’s also where my curated guide and Google Map will lead you.
