Venice, one of the world’s most beloved cities, welcomes thousands of visitors daily who marvel at its bridges and canals. Not surprisingly, since 1987, the entire Venetian Lagoon has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site: a treasure trove of historical, archaeological, architectural, and artistic gems, set within a breathtaking landscape. Here are 12 practical tips for exploring and experiencing Venice in a responsible and sustainable way.
Sustainable Venice
To encourage visitors to appreciate Venice with care and respect, the city launched the #EnjoyRespectVenezia campaign in 2017. The campaign aims to foster responsible tourism and cultivate a deeper understanding of the city’s unique natural and cultural heritage, promoting a style of travel that respects the daily lives of local residents.
To preserve the authenticity of Venice and ensure the well-being of its residents, there is a 12-point guide for visitors. These simple tips will enhance your travel experience and encourage you to become a mindful visitor. Rather than mere tourists, we invite conscious visitors to experience Venice as temporary inhabitants, exploring less-traveled paths and embracing a slower pace. The objective is to raise awareness of tourist impact.
12-point guide to respectful travel in Venice
- 1. Discover the hidden treasures of Venice in the least visited places to appreciate its exceptional beauty.
- 2. Explore the islands in the lagoon and Mainland Venice; participate in events spread throughout the Metropolitan City.
- 3. Taste the local products and typical Venetian cuisine.
- 4. Visit the artisans’ workshops and learn about the ancient trades that still exist today in Venice. Choose only original products and do not buy any goods from illegal vendors.
- 5. Book tours with qualified tourist guides able to recount Venice’s thousand-year-old history.
- 6. Walk on the right; do not stand at any time on bridges; do not even lead bikes by hand.
- 7. Please refrain from using the steps of churches, bridges, wells, monuments, and the banks of streams and canals as picnic areas. Please use the public gardens for this purpose. Consult the map.
- 8. St. Mark’s Square, a monumental site, prohibits standing at any time to eat or drink, except for relevant bars and restaurants.
- 9. Venice is a city of art; it is forbidden to camp, walk about in swimwear, dive, and swim. You can easily reach the beaches at Lido and Pellestrina.
- 10. Respect the environment and artistic wealth: do not litter, do not vandalize with graffiti, or padlocks. Do not give food to the pigeons.
- 11. If you reside in an apartment or flat, please familiarize yourself with the garbage and recycling collection process.
- 12. Plan your trip and choose to visit Venice when it is less crowded.
DETOURISM campaign
The 12 good rules for the responsible visitor serve as a comprehensive guide, offering suggestions and advice to enhance travelers’ awareness and respect for the environment and the beauty of Venice.
The Tourism Department of the City of Venice runs the DETOURISM campaign, which encourages visitors to venture beyond the typical tourist attractions, discover unique experiences, and experience Venice from a fresh perspective.
In this guide, you can find the best museums in Venice to visit during your stay.
