How to Get Around Venice as a Solo Traveller
Are you planning a solo trip to Venice and feeling overwhelmed about navigating this unique city? It’s alright. Venice can be a bit intimidating at first. With its winding, narrow streets and numerous waterways, it’s easy to feel lost in this beautiful city. However, with a little plan and some insider tips, you can navigate Venice like a pro and make the most of your solo trip.
In this blog post, I have compiled some tips to help you get around and make the most of your trip to Venice. Keep reading, and you’ll soon discover Venice is a very easy and safe place to visit!
First and foremost – study the city’s layout!
Whenever you are visiting a new place, it is important to familiarise yourself with the city’s basic layout before arriving. Venice, the city of the lagoon, is made up of a series of islands. It is connected by over 300 bridges and is divided into six districts (sestieri).
The main districts are San Marco, Cannaregio, Dorsoduro, San Polo, Santa Croce, and Castello. It is also helpful if you know the names of the main canals beforehand, such as the Grand Canal, which cuts through the city’s centre.
Make a plan
No matter how/what you choose to get around Venice as a solo traveller, it is important to have a plan before arriving. This means you should know the locations of your accommodation and any major attractions you want to visit.
Also, be aware of the city’s transportation options. It is also a good idea to have a backup plan in case of unforeseen issues or delays.
Best ways to get around Venice
Now that you have a basic understanding of the layout and have a plan let me take you through a few key ways to get around Venice as a solo traveller.
Use a map and GPS
The first thing you’ll want to do when you arrive in Venice is to get a map of the city and figure out how to get around.
Make sure to have a map and GPS with you at all times. And pay attention to the street signs. The streets in Venice are numbered and marked with the sestiere (district) they belong to. This will help you orient yourself and find your way back to your hotel or hostel in Venice.
Take the water bus
One of the best ways to get around the city is by taking the water bus or Vaporetto. These are the main public transport boats running up and down the Grand Canal and the outer islands of Murano, Burano, and Lido.
The ACTV bus system serves the main island of Venice, and several trams run through the city. You can buy a single ticket or a multi-day pass, depending on how long you’ll be in the city. You can purchase tickets at kiosks or in advance online.
The water bus is a great way to see the city from a different perspective and get a sense of the layout. Plus, it is much cheaper than taking a gondola ride!
A tip: There are often random checks and fines for those who don’t have a valid ticket. So, do purchase one before boarding a water bus.
Use the footbridges
Once you reach your destination on the water bus, you’ll need to navigate the city on foot. In my opinion, one of the most iconic features of Venice is the network of footbridges that crisscross the canals. These can be confusing to navigate at first, but with a little practice, you’ll get the hang of it.
Join a group activity to get around the city on your solo travel to Venice
One way to alleviate some of the stress of your solo travel is by joining a tour or group activity. Venice offers a variety of tours. You’ll be spoilt with choice, from food and wine tasting to guided walks through the city’s hidden corners.
Whatever your interests, you are sure to find a tour that suits you in Venice. And what I love most about these activities is that I met fellow solo travellers. I also got a local’s perspective on the city.
Of all the activities, a guided walk tour is my favourite (highly recommend). It is also the best way to overcome the fear of getting lost in the city. Besides, this can be a great way to learn more about the city’s history and culture. During the walk, discuss with the guide to get some local tips on the best places to eat and see in Venice.
A tip: Wear comfortable shoes, as the cobblestone streets can be uneven, and some areas may be prone to flooding. Avoid flip-flops, as they can be slippery and unsuitable for long walks.
Rent a bike or kayak
If you’re looking for a more active way to explore Venice, consider renting a bike or kayak. While it may seem counterintuitive in a city with no cars, several bike rental shops offer traditional and electric bikes around the city. This can be a great way to see the city at your own pace.
Riding a bike is a bit of a challenge in Venice due to the narrow streets and footbridges, but it can be a fun and unique way to see the city. Just be prepared for a few steep inclines and follow the city’s traffic rules.
Kayaking is another option you can opt for to explore the canals and get a different perspective on the city. However, go for it only if you know how to do it! And, please be mindful while cruising through the canals, do not pollute them.
Do NOT miss the gondola ride!
No trip to Venice is complete without taking a gondola ride. These iconic boats are a symbol of the city, and a ride through the canals is a must-do activity.
There are several gondola stations throughout the city. So you can book a ride in advance or show up and see if any are available. Prices vary depending on the length of the ride and the time of the day. But expect to pay around 80 euros for a 40-minute ride.
While a gondola ride can be expensive, it is a unique and memorable experience. Oh, and make sure to negotiate the price beforehand and be clear on your agreement.
Be aware
Take basic safety precautions to get around Venice as a solo female traveller. This includes staying aware of your surroundings, keeping your valuables close, and avoiding walking alone at night in deserted areas. It is also a good idea to let someone know your itinerary and check in with them regularly to feel secure in the city.
So, are you ready to visit Venice?
If you keep all these tips in mind, I feel it won’t be daunting to get around the city. I had the best time exploring Venice on my own. It is unlike any other city in the world! The city has incomparable charm and warmth that will make you want to visit the city again and again! If you have been on a solo trip to Venice, share your experiences in the comments below.
Until next time, happy travelling!