The Floating City of Venice is known for its beautiful visual treats and scenic views of Romantic arched bridges. With incredible serenity and striking architecture, the Venetian charm is not one to miss out on.
But are there even things to do in Venice on a budget—without breaking the bank?
Why, yes, there is plenty to do, and you just need the right guidance! And speaking of guidance, look no further than this handy article that will bring you a treasure trove of knowledge.
Without further ado, let’s get started:
Budget-Friendly Things to Do in Venice
Venice, despite its glittery and pristine surface, is laden with numerous things to do within a reasonable price range.
St. Mark’s Basilica on a Budget
Location: P.za San Marco, 328, 30100 Venice, Italy
One of the most worthwhile free things to do in Venice is to definitely visit its ethereal landmark – Basilica di San Marco. With its sophisticated Byzantine Goth architecture and ornate domes, you will truly be captivated by this work of art.
Upon entry, gilded interiors will grace your sight alongside beautiful and intricate mosaics. The Campanile Bell Tower also offers a lovely and scenic view of Piazza Square.
Roam The St. Mark’s Square
Commonly used as a reference point when visiting the labyrinthine city of Venice, St. Mark’s Square has stood proudly for ages.
In the heart of Venice, known as the ‘drawing room of Europe’, you can find some lovely historical cafes to tuck into. Don’t forget to visit the Doge’s Palace and admire the beautiful intricacies of the mosaics of St. Mark’s Basilica.
Check Out the Museo Correr
Location: P.za San Marco, 52, 30124 Venice, Italy
The Museo Correr is an establishment with the most beautiful and enchanting decorations and artifacts. From the elegant brocade curtains to the ceiling fresco, the place will impress you undoubtedly.
Also, don’t forget to feast your eyes upon the exquisite picture gallery, which includes fascinating collections of 16th-century Venetian paintings.
Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute
Location: Dorsoduro, 30123 Venice, Italy
When going to Venice, keep this iconic attraction on your bucket list for sure. Sightsee up the grand staircase of the Basilica and admire the view of the Grand Canal.
You will be greeted by an array of statues leading up to the gateway that opens up to a grand octagonal centerpoint. Overhead is the ornate and decorative dome under which you can find notable Renaissance masterpieces, like those by Titian and Tintoretto.
Wander Through the Rialto Bridge
Location: 30125 Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice
Known as an architectural and engineering masterpiece, the Rialto Bridge stands as the oldest of four bridges that span the Grand Canal.
The Ponte de Rialto boasts a scenic view of Venice right underneath it. So make sure you stop by at different times of the day, as each holds a new look. And while you’re at it, check out the Rialto market for fresh fruits, vegetables, and fish.
Take a Stroll Through the Bridge of Sighs
Albeit holding a dark history to the name, the Bridge of Sighs is considered a top romantic spot. This is mainly due to its famous tradition of kissing your partner while passing underneath a gondola.
While it’s not open air, this bridge has windows in its narrow corridors through which the canal can be seen stretching out. This makes for an unmissable, unique, and lovely view.
Walk Along the Grand Canal
Aside from the romantic Gondola rides and Traghetto rides through the canals, consider taking a scenic walk along it. You’ll be greeted with a serene view of gondolas rowing by and the colorful buildings reflecting on the blue water.
A walk by the Grand Canal is sure to cheer you up with its refreshing salty scent and fresh air.
Related Post: Best Places for Gondola Rides
Take a Vaporetto Ride
Being a common means of transport, a vaporetto, or water taxi, is an efficient way to traverse the numerous canals of Venice. Other than that, it’s also super affordable and allows you to see Venice through a different lens.
Visit the Ghetto Ebraico (Jewish Ghetto)
Location: Venice, Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy
Known as a famous historic location, this small area in Venice is one you shouldn’t miss. The warm-toned and colorful buildings surrounding the area create a welcoming environment.
Consider visiting the synagogues and the Museo Ebraico di Venezia to delve into the decorative and unique history of the neighborhood.
Go to the Church of San Giorgio Maggiore
Location: 30100 Venice, Italy
Captured famously in Monet’s paintings, this idyllic Church is located in the northern part of the island of Venice. With its gleaming white marble Benedictine architecture glittering over the blue waters, this serves a lovely and wonderful view.
On the inside is a spectacular art exhibition with various paintings accompanied by information cards for an educational experience. Consider climbing its bell tower for a beautiful, unparalleled view of Venice too!
Travel Around the Dorsoduro District
The Dorsoduro district is famous for striking a balance between the touristy and the authentic side of Venice. So, if you’re wondering about eating on a budget in Venice, head to Campo Santa Margherita at the heart of this neighborhood.
This is where you’ll find the most reasonably priced eateries and cafes. Moreover, don’t forget to visit the Peggy Guggenheim collection, which is free on the First Sunday of each month.
The Musical History of Venice in Museo della Musica
Location: Campo San Maurizio, San Marco 2603 – 30124 Venice, Italy
Though it’s a small museum, the Museo della Musica is a beautiful museum in St. Maurice Church. Let the history of violin-making put you in awe and wonder.
The museum dedicates a section to the legendary Vivaldi and other Baroque geniuses. And to truly honor them, you can consider these things to do in the evening and get tickets to the concerts held as a tribute to them.
Visit the Gallery of Modern Art at Ca’ Pesaro
Location: Calle del Tentor, 2076, 30135 Venice, Italy
This beautiful waterfront palace, sculpted out of marble, boasts ornate and detailed frescoes across its facade to this day.
While the architecture will take your breath away, the inside is just as tremendous to behold. With varying types of themed exhibitions, from rotational and temporary to classic collections, there’s lots to see for anyone. You may prefer a guided trip for an all-rounded experience.
Scour the Scuola Grande di San Rocco
Location: San Polo, 3054, a, 30125 Venice, Italy
One of the glittery ones of the Venice attractions, the Scuola di San Rocco is an exquisitely decorated building. With 20 years of work on its frescoes, Tintoretto has left behind a masterpiece that is being honored to this day.
You can enjoy the sophisticated ceiling frescoes and paintings by various artists of the 16th Century.
Get Amazed in The Naval History Museum
Location: Riva S. Biasio, 2148, 30122 Venice, Italy
Boasting the incredible Venetian warships, visiting this attraction is one of the best things to do in Venice on a budget. Observe and learn about different Venetian relics and artifacts that have brought pride and joy to the city.
Each floor is dedicated to a different type of exhibition, starting with military trophies, the Bucintoro, the Hall of Ships, and the Swedish Hall, to name a few.
Visit the Venetian Islands & Beach
Venice houses over 150 islands and idyllic beaches, which you can enjoy without breaking the bank. Some of the top choices are Lido, Burano, Murano, and Pellestrina.
These islands each boast colorful cultures and significant traditions that you can discover on your visit. The key is to enjoy and immerse your senses to the fullest.
Get Entertained in an Affordable Venetian Nightlife
Venice is expensive, but not all the way through, and contrary to popular belief, the same is said about its nightlife.
You can visit one of many rooftop bars or cicchetteries hosting live shows and musical events. Outdoor movies are also a top romantic choice that is equally affordable.
Moreover, Lido de Venezia is known for dynamic beach parties that you shouldn’t miss if you’re all about the nightlife.
Enjoy a Picnic in Venice’s Gardens
Venice can get quite crowded at times, and rightfully so.
To get away from the crowds, look to Venice’s beautiful parks and gardens.
Giardino Ca’ Rezzonico is a well-manicured park with kids’ playing equipment that makes for great family time spent.
For some peaceful alone time, you can head to the Giardinetti Reali and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. And Parco delle Rimembranze is your place for picnics during weekends.
Attend Free Seasonal Events and Festivals
One of the most beautiful things about Venice is that everyone can unite and enjoy lovely seasonal events and festivals, often for free.
The Festa della Sensa remains an anticipated free event, with boat-rowing events and feasts each year.
The Venice Film Festival is also the world’s oldest film festival and is widely attended internationally. If you’re a film lover, this is definitely for you.
Have a Self-Guided Walking Tour of Venice
Sometimes the cheapest way to get to know Venice is a free walking tour by yourself. There are several guides that are downloadable on phones, like the Marco Polo guide.
This way, you can take your time without the rush of a group or a paid guided tour and enjoy Venice. The City of Bridges is known for its art scene and graffiti, so make sure to keep an eye out for them.
Related Post: Convenient Ways From Venice Marco Polo Airport To Venice City Centre
Cost-Effective Venice with Affordable Tourism Options
Before coming to Venice, it’s important that you do some research on the most affordable touring options. Why? Well, it’s super easy to fall into a tourist trap, so take precautions.
Here are some affordable tourism options you can check out:
Budget-Friendly Places to Stay in Venice
Accommodation in Venice can be quite pricey if you’re looking in the wrong places. Dorsodurio is a great neighborhood to find affordable hotels in Venice if you want to stay without spending too much.
Santa Croce is also a great option to spend your days in Venice with its colorful accommodation options. Alternatively, you could stay in monasteries with monks too, though it may come with a curfew.
Cheap Dining Options in Venice
To eat in Venice on a budget may seem impossible, but there are many spots that are not that expensive at all.
Rialto and Canareggio are laden with eateries that serve quality budget meals for a reasonable price. You can even find many delectable cicchetti bars serving varieties of Cicchetti and drinks.
Get Shopping in Affordable Local Markets
The Lagoon city boasts numerous local markets selling authentic Venetian products and unique souvenirs. The Rialto market and Marghera market are great for local fresh produce and the chef’s favorites.
Cà Grifalconi, on the other hand, is a traditional Italian market selling spices and wines alongside other wares.
Tips for Saving Money in Venice
- Avoid eating at a table in restaurants or cafes and eat while standing.
- Avoid the high season – the second half of December to January is great, and aim for midweek.
- Instead of a gondola, try a traghetto to save on expenses.
- Try walking freely instead of getting paid guides.
- Try street foods and eat like a local – find a ‘bacari’ or local wine bars.
- Avoid buying from street peddlers; this could be problematic too.
- Try to book tickets in advance to the Doge’s Palace for discounts and to save time.
- Avoid Airbnb and go to local hotels and monasteries.
- Keep an eye out for discount cards.
- Stick to public transportation.
Related Post: Travel Tips for Venice to Avoid Tourist Traps
Closing Notes
We hope this could give you the assurance that it is possible to enjoy your time in Venice without spending a fortune.
It doesn’t take much to enjoy it, and a little guidance goes a long way.
There are many things to do in Venice on a budget and more to experience uniquely as mentioned above. Last but not least, blend in with the locals to enjoy the ambiance of Venice to the fullest and all it has to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much is a gondola in Venice?
Gondolas can cost around €80 ($86.79) before sunset to €100 ($108.48) after 7 PM. It also heavily depends on the traffic situation in the canals. Additionally, you may need to pay extra for 20-minute increments if the gondolier sings or plays an instrument.
Is the bread free in Venice?
No, the bread isn’t free and you do need to pay for it as a ‘pane e coperto’ price. Even if it isn’t mentioned and offered to you, you do need to pay for it. Often, it appears as ‘pane’ on the bill. The fee tends to be around €1-2.50 ($1.08-2.70) per person.
Do you need tickets for St. Mark’s Basilica?
Yes, there is an entry fee for St. Mark’s Basilica of €3.00 ($3.24) per person now. It is free for children up to 6 years old.
Is Venice walkable in a day?
Yes, Venice is walkable in a day, as all the major attractions are within walking distance. However, it is recommended to keep 2-3 days for visiting Venice.
How much is a cup of coffee in Venice?
It depends on where you are drinking it, but typically, coffee around the corner is priced at €1-2 ($1.08-2.16) However, coffee from well-known cafes can differ greatly in price and be much more costly. To lower the cost, you can order standing at the counter instead of sitting at a table.
