Is Venice safe? What you should know

Venice is a floating city that feels like a dreamer with a love for bridges designed it. Did you know it’s built on about 120 islands connected by over 400 bridges? It’s like someone turned a winding maze into a city. And honestly, it’s worked out pretty well!

Wandering through its narrow streets and cruising its canals, it’s easy to see why Venice is considered one of the most beautiful places in the world. The cultural and artistic heritage here isn’t just impressive; it’s jaw-dropping. Every corner feels like stepping into a painting, and let’s be real, no filter can do it justice.

But when planning your trip, you might wonder: is Venice safe? Here’s the good news: Venice is a safe city, often seen as one of the safest cities in North East Italy.

Its crime rates are lower than those of many other cities, and you can rarely hear about violent crimes. Yet, with so many tourists flocking to its canals and crowded places, petty crimes like pickpocketing can still happen.

But, who hasn’t daydreamed about riding a gondola down the Grand Canal, or catching a romantic sunset from the Rialto Bridge? Honestly, even if romance isn’t on your agenda, Venice will sweep you off your feet, you might just fall in love with the city itself.

Pro tip: Bring a camera and maybe some comfy shoes! You’ll be walking a lot, but hey, who needs a gym when the views are this good?

Let’s dive into everything you need to know to navigate Venice safely, from avoiding common scams to enjoying the best things to do at night in Venice.

Safety tips to keep in mind when visiting Venice

Whether you’re admiring the bridges or taking a gondola ride down the canal, these tips will help you make the most of your trip.

Getting around Venice safely

Venice’s unique layout means no cars, no bikes, just boats and your own two feet. Walking through the city’s streets is part of its charm, but it’s easy to lose track of where you are, especially at night. Stick to well-lit areas and avoid isolated areas after dark, particularly in less populated neighborhoods like Santa Croce or San Polo.

Venice’s public transport, including water buses (vaporetto) and water taxis, is reliable and safe. If you’re arriving at Santa Lucia Railway Station or San Nicolo Airport, use the official water bus services to get to the city center. They’re affordable and scenic, but keep an eye on your personal belongings, especially during peak hours.

Pro tip: If you’re flying into Treviso Airport or the closest commercial airport, Marco Polo Airport, pre-booking a transfer can save you the hassle of navigating on arrival.

Staying safe in crowded areas

Famous landmarks like Mark’s Square and Doge’s Palace are magnets for tourists, but also pickpockets. Keep your bag close, zippered, and in front of you. A crossbody bag or money belt is your best bet in crowds.

Watch out for scams, like folks offering to “help” with your bags or street sellers pushing fake goods. Another trick is the gold ring scam, where someone ‘finds’ a gold ring and tries to rope you into handing over cash. What should you do? Politely decline and keep walking.

Is violent crime a concern in Venice?

Not at all. Unlike some other cities, Venice is practically free of violent crime. The biggest major concern for tourists is usually a lost phone or wallet. The local authorities are approachable and helpful, so don’t hesitate to ask for help if you need it.

For solo female travelers, Venice is considered extremely safe. Its busy streets and frequent police patrols make it a great destination to explore on your own. Just exercise caution as you would in any capital city, especially after dark.

Is tap water in Venice safe to drink?

Yes! Venice’s water is both clean and safe to drink. Refill your reusable bottle at one of the many fountains across the city. Not only is it a sustainable option, but it’s also free. It’s just perfect for staying hydrated while wandering the city’s canals.

Safe accommodation options in Venice

Venice offers a wide range of accommodation options for every budget, from luxurious canal-side hotels to hostels. For a safe place to stay without breaking the bank, check out Generator Venice, a stylish hostel on Giudecca Island with dorm beds starting at €30 per night. For a mid-range option, Hotel Antiche Figure near the train station offers rooms from €120 per night.

Pro tip: Need a secure spot for your bags before check-in or during your last day? Bounce luggage storage is the answer! With secure locations across Venice, your belongings are stored safely in trusted local businesses, with 24/7 support and $10,000 protection.

Cultural callouts & things to keep in mind

Curious about how to blend in while exploring Venice’s canals and narrow streets? Here are a few tips to help you embrace Venetian culture like a local:

• Speak a little Italian: While many Venetians working in tourist areas speak English, a friendly “Ciao!” (Hello!) or “Grazie!” (Thank you!) will make interactions smoother. Want to impress? Try “Quanto costa?” (How much does it cost?) when shopping in markets or stores.
• Dining do’s and don’ts: Venetians don’t mess around with their food traditions. Don’t order a cappuccino after noon unless you want to stand out as a tourist. And if you’re visiting a bar for cicchetti (Venetian tapas), stand at the counter and enjoy—it’s the authentic way.
• Don’t feed the pigeons: It might seem charming to snap a photo feeding the pigeons in San Marco, but locals frown upon it. Plus, there are laws to discourage it.
• Dress appropriately: While Venice has a relaxed vibe, stepping into historic churches or sites like the Doge’s Palace means modest clothes. A scarf or shawl will save the day if you're wearing sleeveless tops or shorts.
• Be water-wise: Always catch vaporetti at the right stop and have your ticket ready. Locals aren’t fans of delays caused by confused tourists blocking the queue.

Keeping safe when navigating Venice

Venice is a safe city, but its unique layout can be a bit disorienting at first. Here’s how to explore like a pro:

• Getting from the airport: The easiest way to reach Venice from Marco Polo Airport is by taking the Alilaguna water bus, which connects directly to the city center. If you’re short on time, a water taxi offers a faster, but pricier, option for a scenic entrance to the city.
• Navigating the canals: Water buses and water taxis are the main modes of transport. Stick to the official ACTV buses for affordable travel. And remember, walking is a joy in Venice—just expect to cross a lot of bridges!
• Stay alert in crowded areas: Touristy spots like the Rialto Bridge and Mark’s Square can get packed, especially during the peak hours of the day. Keep your personal belongings secure and watch out for pickpockets.
• Use the pedestrian streets: While Venice is car-free, some areas like Strada Nova or streets in San Polo are ideal for walking without worrying about boats or traffic. These spots are well-lit and lively, which makes them a safe place to stroll, even at night.

Nature and Venice: Safety tips to keep in mind

Need a break from the bustling crowded places? Venice has some peaceful natural spots and nearby adventures:

• Lido di Venezia: For a beach day, hop on a vaporetto to Lido, where you can relax on sandy shores or rent a bike to explore this laid-back island. It’s a popular spot during the summer months but rarely gets overcrowded.
• Lagoon islands: Visit Murano for its world-famous glass, Burano for its colorful houses, or Torcello for a quieter, historical vibe. These islands are safe and a delight to explore.
• Stay prepared for high tides: Venice occasionally experiences a high tide (acqua alta) in the winter months. You’ll find raised walkways, but waterproof shoes can save you a soggy day!

Last tips in the case of an emergency

Here’s what to keep in mind to stay prepared during your Venetian adventure:

• Emergency numbers: Dial 112 for police, fire, or medical emergencies. The service is efficient and available in multiple languages, including English.
• Lost something? If you misplace an item, contact local authorities or check at the nearest station, as lost-and-found services are reliable.
• Travel insurance: Whether it’s a missed flight or a lost passport, travel insurance will help cover any unexpected costs and give you peace of mind.
• Avoid common scams: Stay away from overly friendly strangers offering help or selling fake gold rings. Politely decline and keep moving to avoid being a target.
• Stay hydrated: Water from the tap in Venice is safe to drink, and there are free fountains around the city to refill your bottle. Save a few euros and avoid buying bottled water every time.

So, is Venice Safe?

Absolutely! Venice remains one of the most popular European cities which offers a secure and magical experience for travelers. Whether you’re admiring the Rialto Bridge, cruising the Grand Canal, or enjoying the quieter neighborhoods of San Polo, you’ll feel comfortable exploring this safe destination.

And remember, if you need a secure spot to stash your bags while you roam around, Bounce luggage storage guarantees your belongings are safe and sound. So go on, enjoy the charm of Venice, one gondola ride at a time!