Venice is unlike any other city in the world: built on water, crisscrossed by canals, and filled with Gothic palaces and Renaissance art. I – Ullrich H. Angersbach – explored Venice by foot and vaporetto, finding a city that feels like both a living museum and a romantic stage.

What impressed me most was the contrast: iconic sights like St. Mark’s Basilica alongside quiet alleys where laundry hangs above silent canals. Venice rewards both the first-time visitor and the wanderer who gets lost on purpose.

For US travelers: Italy is part of the Schengen Area. US citizens can stay visa-free for up to 90 days. Starting in 2025, an ETIAS authorization will be required.

Arrival & First Impressions

Flights from the US arrive at Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE). From there, water taxis and buses connect to the city. Arriving by boat across the lagoon is unforgettable.

Costs (USD approx.):

• Espresso: USD 2 (USD 6–8 if sitting in St. Mark’s Square)
• Vaporetto ticket (water bus, 75 min): USD 10
• Dinner (mid-range): USD 25–35 per person
• Hotel (mid-range): USD 120–180 per night

St. Mark’s Square – Venice’s heart

• St. Mark’s Basilica: glittering mosaics and golden domes. Entrance free; museum extra.
• Doge’s Palace: Gothic palace with grand halls and the Bridge of Sighs.
• Campanile (bell tower): elevator to panoramic city views.

Grand Canal – Venice’s main artery

The Grand Canal winds through the city, lined with palaces.

• Vaporetto Line 1: slow ride past Rialto Bridge, Ca’ d’Oro, and Santa Maria della Salute.
• Gondola rides: iconic but expensive (~USD 90 for 30 minutes).
• Rialto Bridge: oldest bridge, with markets and views.

Hidden Venice – beyond the crowds

Venice’s magic lies outside the main routes.

• Cannaregio: local neighborhood with canalside cafés.
• Dorsoduro: art district, home to Peggy Guggenheim Collection.
• Campo Santa Margherita: lively square with students and locals.
• Jewish Ghetto: historic quarter with synagogues and kosher bakeries.

Island trips – Murano, Burano & Torcello

• Murano: glassmaking workshops.
• Burano: brightly painted houses, lace-making tradition.
• Torcello: once Venice’s origin, now quiet with a 7th-century cathedral.

Health & Safety for US Travelers

• Vaccinations: No special requirements.
• Water: Tap water is safe.
• Medical care: Excellent. Carry travel insurance for peace of mind.
• Safety: Venice is safe; biggest risks are pickpockets in crowded areas.
• Flooding: “Acqua alta” (high water) can occur in fall/winter—wooden walkways help.

Practical Travel Tips

• Best seasons: April–June & Sept–Oct. Summer is hot and crowded.
• Transport: Walking and vaporettos. No cars.
• Currency: Euro.
• Language: Italian, though English widely spoken in tourism.
• Power: 230V, Type C/F plugs—bring adapter.
• Food: Try cicchetti (Venetian tapas), risotto al nero di seppia (squid ink), and tiramisu.

Conclusion: Venice is timeless

Venice is fragile yet enduring. For US travelers, it is both iconic and personal: gondolas on the Grand Canal, secret alleys, and light reflecting on water at every turn. It is a city that never loses its magic.

Recommended Reading (English)

• Lonely Planet: Venice & the Veneto – practical guide.
• John Julius Norwich: A History of Venice – sweeping history.
• Donna Leon: Venetian crime novels – mysteries set in modern Venice.

• Belgium
• Cambodia
• Côte d’Azur
• Crete
• Croatian Coast
• Gdańsk – Malbork – Sopot
• Greece Journey
• Holy Land
• Iceland
• India
• Lake Starnberg
• Myanmar
• Namibia
• Oman
• Seiser Alm
• Slovenia
• South Africa
• Sweden
• Tenerife
• Vietnam
• Warsaw – Krakow

Disclaimer

This report reflects my personal impressions of Venice. Tourist regulations, gondola fares, and opening hours may change—always check current details before your trip.

About the Author – Ullrich H. Angersbach

I, Ullrich H. Angersbach, enjoy destinations where history and daily life merge. Venice charmed me with its contrasts—grand palaces, quiet alleys, and canals everywhere. I write for US travelers who want romance with depth.

Copyright

© 2025 Ullrich H. Angersbach. All rights reserved. Unauthorized reproduction, translation or distribution prohibited.