An obvious way to skip the crowds is to visit Venice during the winter when rain and fog deter most tourists.  If you can’t plan your trip during the off-season, try to visit during the week.

A third — and particularly helpful — tip for avoiding the crowds in Venice is to visit the main sights during the off-peak times. As a general rule, it’s best to visit attractions when they open in the morning, during the lunch hour or right before closing. Read on for more specific information.

More tips for Venice:
• 5 Best budget hotels in Venice
• 10 Things to do in Venice on the cheap
• 5 Cheap hotels in Venice with canal views

How to avoid crowds at Venice attractions

Here are some of the city’s top attractions, along with the best times to visit them:

Palazzo Ducale (Doges Palace) and the Bridge of Sighs

St. Mark’s Square
Open: 9 am – 7 pm (9 am – 6 pm from November – March)
website

The Palazzo Ducale was the center of power during the times of the Republic of Venice. Every room is full of amazing frescoes. After feasting your eyes on the beautiful paintings and architecture, consider checking out the Secret Itineraries Tour. The tour takes you through the palace’s dungeon and torture chamber, which is connected to the palace by the Ponte dei Sospiri (Bridge of Sighs).

Best Times To Visit: Stop by the Palazzo when it opens at 9 am, between 12:30-1:30 pm (when tourist groups are having lunch) or about an hour before closing time.

Hotel Picks: Accommodations near Palazzo Ducale

Museo Correr (Archaeological Museum)

San Marco 52, 30124 Venice
Open: 10 am – 6 pm (10 am – 5 pm from November – March)
website

The Museo Correr is Venice’s civic museum. Here you’ll find exhibits that offer a fascinating insight into the art and history of the city.

Best Times To Visit: When the museum opens at 10 am, between 12:30 – 1:30 pm, and about an hour before closing time.

Basilica di San Marco (St. Mark’s Basilica)

St. Mark’s Square
Open: 9:30 am – 5:15 pm (2 pm – 5:15 pm on Sundays and holidays)

The Basilica di San Marco, perhaps the city’s most famous sight, is an amazing monument made unique by both its wealth of history and the magnificence of its façade and interior. The basilica is famous for housing St. Mark’s relics.

Best Times To Visit: Avoid Sunday mornings and holidays since the Basilica will be used for mass service. There is always a big queue at the entrance, no matter what time, but now you can book your ticket in advance to skip the line.

Hotel Picks: Browse accommodations near St. Mark’s

Campanile di San Marco (St. Mark’s Tower)

St. Mark’s Square  (opposite the Basilica)
Open: 9:30 am – 9:15 pm (closed during inclement weather)
website

A visit to this amazing church tower affords a great bird’s eye view of Venice.

Best Times To Visit: Avoid lunchtime, and get there very early in the morning or just before closing time.

The Rialto Bridge in Venice. Photo: Photo: Ekaterina

Rialto Bridge and its markets

The Rialto Bridge is located in the oldest (and most central) quarter of Venice, and it has been a bustling hub for centuries. The area is always packed with tourists, be it summertime or wintertime.

Best Times to Visit: Go early in the morning before 9 am. Not only will you see the local fish and vegetable market, but you can also enjoy a relatively peaceful scene at the bridge. You should also visit late at night after 10 pm, as the majority of tourists will be heading to bed or eating dinner.

Hotel Picks: Accommodations near Rialto Bridge

Gallerie dell’ Accademia (Academy Galleries)

Vaporetto stop Accademia, just off the Accademia Bridge
Open: Monday, 8:15 am – 2 pm; Tuesday – Sunday: 8:15 am – 7:15 pm
website

The Gallerie dell’ Accademia boasts a rich collection of Venetian paintings from the Byzantine and Gothic periods as well as work from Renaissance artists such as Bellini, Carpaccio, Giorgione, Veronese, Tintoretto, Tiziano and Gianbattista Tiepolo.

Best Times To Visit: I do not want to repeat myself, but as before, be there early (before 9 am) or go an hour before closing times (although this will obviously give you less time in the museum). Groups usually go during the day.

Hotel Picks: Affordable accommodations near Academy Galleries

Bonus Tip: Book online, and explore other areas

My final tip on avoiding crowds is to book your tickets online. For the majority of museums in Venice, you can do this on www.veneziaunica.com. Also, explore other areas of the city, away from the main sites. By treading off the tourist past, you will see my Venice.

The post Venice: How to avoid the crowds at the city’s main attractions appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

This is especially true if you’re planning to visit popular destinations like Rome, Venice, Florence, and Milan during peak tourist season. But don’t worry – with our expert tips, you can experience the magic of Italy without breaking the bank.

Here are 11 budget tips to help you live la dolce vita without breaking the bank.

11 Money-Saving Tips for Your 2024 Italian Getaway

1. Book early and consider shoulder seasons

Timing is everything when it comes to budget travel in Italy. Here’s how to make the most of your timing:

• Summer (June-August): Peak season with highest prices and largest crowds
• Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October): Ideal for better rates and mild weather
• Winter (November-March): Lowest prices, but be prepared for cooler temperatures

It’s no surprise that summer is the busiest tourist season in Italy. Whether you want to book one of our favorite cheap hotels, or find a great deal for cheap flights, make sure to book as early as possible.

For even better rates (and fewer crowds!), visit in the spring or fall. For the absolute best deals, take your Italian holiday in winter. Christmas in Italy is a treat, and Rome is especially beautiful this time of year and never gets too cold.

August in Italy: A Hidden Opportunity

On the other hand, there are a few advantages to sweating it out in Italy’s big cities in the heat of August. Throngs of Italians go on vacation, so even though there may be still plenty of tourists in Rome, Florence, and Venice, the crowds can be a little thinner and the hotel rates take a tumble. (Here are some tips on going to Florence in August.)

Saving on Flights to Italy

For cheap flights, we recommend:

• Booking during shoulder or off-peak seasons
• Searching for weekday flights instead of weekends
• Considering early morning or late night flights on budget airlines like Ryanair

Price Update: As of 2024, budget airline fares to Italy can start as low as €20-€50 for one-way tickets from other European cities, while transatlantic flights from the US can be found for around $400-$600 during off-peak seasons.

Consider visiting Urbino, Italy. Photo: Gareth Williams

2. Consider visiting less touristy parts of Italy

While iconic destinations like Venice, Rome, and Florence are must-sees, exploring lesser-known areas can offer authentic Italian experiences at lower prices. Consider these hidden gems:

• Turin: Rich in history and architecture, with fewer crowds
• Beaches of Calabria: Stunning coastlines without the high prices
• Basilicata: Home to the unique cave dwellings of Matera
• Urbino: Birthplace of Raphael and a well-preserved Renaissance city

Italy is one of the most beautiful countries in the world, it is packed with artistic, natural, and historic sites, and everywhere you go, you are guaranteed to find something worth visiting. Just get off the beaten track, and try visiting less popular areas. Here you will find authentic gems, friendly people, and much cheaper prices.

Panda Hotel in Rome is a budget operation right in the center of it all near the Spanish Steps. Photo: EuroCheapo

3. Sleep small and central…

When it comes to accommodations in Italy, thinking small can lead to big savings. Consider these budget-friendly options:

• Family-run pensions: Affordable guesthouses with a personal touch
• Religious accommodations: Convents and monasteries offering unique, budget-friendly stays

Price Update: In 2024, bare-bones budget accommodations in central locations of major Italian cities can range from €50-€120 per night, while staying in less touristy areas can drop prices to €30-€70 per night.

Also, make sure to double check the location of the hotel before you book. You may find a hotel or bed and breakfast that offers a great rate, but if it is so far away from the sites, you might end up spending all of that money you saved on extra taxis at night.

Want some small and budget-friendly hotel recommendations? Check out our favorites in Florence, Milan, Rome, and Venice, or click to search more than 80,000 hotels in Italy.

Related: Best budget hotels in Rome

4. …or sleep outside the most popular cities

If central accommodations are still stretching your budget, consider staying in nearby towns. This strategy can significantly reduce your costs while offering a more authentic local experience.

Examples of budget-friendly alternatives:

• Venice: Stay in Mestre (10-minute train ride to Venice)
• Milan: Consider Monza or Como
• Florence: Look for an agriturismo in the Tuscan countryside
• Cinque Terre: Base yourself in La Spezia
• Amalfi Coast: Opt for Sorrento instead of pricier Capri or Positano

Price Update: In 2024, staying in these alternative locations can save you 30-50% on accommodation costs compared to central areas in major cities.

Related: 10 Ways to save when visiting Lake Como

Book your own train tickets on the Trenitalia website.

5. Use trains and buses instead of renting a car

Italy’s extensive public transportation network offers an economical and efficient way to explore the country. Here’s why you should consider trains and buses:

• Extensive Coverage: Italy’s train system connects major cities and many smaller towns
• Speed and Convenience: Fast trains like Italo and Frecciarossa offer quick city-to-city travel
• Cost-Effective: Often cheaper than car rentals, especially when factoring in parking and gas
• Stress-Free Travel: No need to navigate unfamiliar roads or worry about parking

Money-Saving Tips for Train Travel:

• Book train tickets well in advance for the best prices
• Look for special offers and discounts on the Italo and Trenitalia websites
• Consider overnight trains for longer journeys to save on accommodation

Price Update: As of 2024, regional train tickets start from about €10-€20, while high-speed train fares between major cities can range from €30-€70 when booked in advance.

Get ready to walk in Florence!

6. When visiting a city, use public transport or just walk around

Exploring Italian cities on foot or by public transportation is not only budget-friendly but also allows you to experience the local culture more intimately. Here’s how to navigate urban areas economically:

• Walking: Most Italian city centers are compact and walkable
• Public Transportation: Reliable and affordable in larger cities
• City Passes: Many cities offer tourist passes that include public transportation and museum entries

Tips for Urban Exploration:

• Download offline maps on your smartphone for easy navigation
• Invest in comfortable walking shoes
• Use Google Maps for public transportation routes and schedules
• Remember to validate your ticket when using buses or trams

Price Update: In 2024, single-ride public transport tickets in major Italian cities typically cost €1.50-€2.00. Day passes range from €6-€10, offering excellent value for extensive city exploration.

7. Take advantage of free museum days

Many Italian museums and archaeological sites offer free entry on specific days or times. Planning your visits around these free periods can lead to substantial savings.

Tips for Free Museum Visits:

• Research free days for major attractions in advance
• Arrive early on free days to avoid long queues
• Check for student and senior discounts if you’re eligible
• Look for combination tickets that offer entry to multiple sites at a discount

Always Free Attractions:

• Many churches and basilicas
• Public parks and gardens
• Some beaches (though some may charge for facilities)

Be sure to check out this list of free things to do in Rome, free things in Florence and free activities in Venice.

Price Update: As of 2024, entry fees for major museums and archaeological sites in Italy can range from €15-€25. Taking advantage of free days can result in significant savings, especially for families or groups.

Crowds at St. mark’s Square in Venice. Photo: Photo by Efrem Efre

8. If you want to go on guided tours, research free options

While professional guided tours can be expensive, there are several ways to enjoy informative tours without breaking the bank:

• Free Walking Tours: Available in most major cities, usually tip-based
• Museum-Led Tours: Many museums offer free guided tours with admission
• Self-Guided Audio Tours: Download apps for affordable, flexible touring

Where to Find Free Tours:

• Check Eventbrite for local free walking tours
• Visit official tourism websites for cities like Florence, Milan, Rome, and Venice
• Look for student-led tours, often available in university towns

Price Update: In 2024, professional guided tours in Italy can cost anywhere from €30-€100 per person. Opting for free or tip-based tours can save you €20-€80 per person, per tour.

Ahhhh, what a romantic (and very expensive!) scene. Photo: Chen Kirin

9. Don’t fall for tourist traps!

While iconic experiences can be tempting, they often come with inflated prices. Here are some common tourist traps to be wary of:

• Overpriced Restaurants in Tourist Hotspots: e.g., those lining Rome’s Piazza Navona
• Costumed “Guides”: Like gladiators in Rome offering tours… keep walking!
• Gondola Rides in Venice: Romantic, but extremely expensive

Budget-Friendly Alternatives:

• Eat at restaurants a few streets away from major attractions
• Take official guided tours or use audio guides
• In Venice, try a vaporetto (water bus) instead of a gondola

Having said that, if you want to dine on the Piazza, pose with a gladiator, or shell out serious cash for a gondola ride, go for it, and have fun! Just remember these might not be the cheapest (or best) options. We won’t judge. (Okay, maybe just a little

Price Update: As of 2024, a gondola ride in Venice can cost upwards of €80 for a 30-minute ride, while a vaporetto ticket is around €7.50 for a single journey or €20 for a 24-hour pass.

Related: Avoid these tourist traps in Italy

10. Shop the markets for fresh (and super cheap) food

Local markets offer a budget-friendly way to enjoy Italy’s renowned cuisine. Here’s why you should consider market shopping:

• Fresh, Local Produce: Often cheaper and fresher than supermarkets
• Authentic Experience: Interact with locals and practice your Italian
• Picnic Possibilities: Create your own meals for substantial savings

Tips for Market Shopping:

• Visit markets early for the best selection
• Look for seasonal produce for the best prices
• Don’t be afraid to haggle, especially at flea markets
• Bring your own bags to carry your purchases

Price Update: In 2024, you can expect to spend about €10-€15 per person for a picnic lunch sourced from local markets, compared to €20-€30 for a basic restaurant meal.

Related: The best supermarkets, bakeries, and delis in Venice

11. Go for an aperitivo

Aperitivo, the Italian pre-dinner ritual, is not just a cultural experience but also a budget-friendly way to enjoy drinks and light bites. Here’s what you need to know:

• Timing: Usually enjoyed in the late afternoon or early evening
• What to Expect: A drink (often a Spritz or wine) accompanied by snacks or small plates
• Cost-Effective: Often cheaper than a full dinner, with food sometimes included in the drink price

Aperitivo Tips:

• Look for bars advertising “aperitivo” or “happy hour”
• Try local specialties like Aperol Spritz or Campari
• Some places offer extensive buffets with the price of a drink
• Use it as a light dinner alternative to save on meal costs

Price Update: In 2024, expect to pay €8-€15 for an aperitivo, which typically includes a drink and access to snacks or a light buffet. This can be significantly cheaper than a full restaurant meal, which might cost €20-€30 per person.

Conclusion: Embracing La Dolce Vita on a Budget

Traveling through Italy doesn’t have to break the bank. By following these tips, you can experience the best of Italian culture, cuisine, and history while keeping your expenses in check. Remember, some of the most authentic and memorable experiences in Italy often come at little to no cost – whether it’s wandering through charming neighborhoods, enjoying a sunset in a public square, or chatting with locals at a neighborhood café.

As you plan your 2024 Italian adventure, keep these budget-friendly strategies in mind, but also don’t be afraid to occasionally splurge on experiences that truly matter to you. After all, la dolce vita is about finding joy in both the grand and simple pleasures of life.

Buon viaggio e buon risparmio! (Happy travels and happy saving!)

Your budget tips?

Have some budget tips for Italy to add to our list? Share with us in the comments section below!

The post Italy Budget Travel Guide 2024: 11 simple ways to save money on your trip appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

A single trip on a vaporetto costs €7.50 (valid for 60 minutes), whether you take the boat for one stop or for a whole Grand Canal tour. Fortunately, there is a system designed for tourists that will help you save some serious money.

More Venice tips
• 10 Things to do in Venice on the cheap
• The most romantic hotels in Venice that won’t break the bank
• Roll With It: Venice is not going to ban rolling bags

Tourist Travel Cards

In recent years ACTV (Venice’s bus and boat system) realized that they had to come up with a tourist transportation card, so they created several different types of “time-limited travelcard,” each valid for a different period of time.

Travel cards are available for:

1 Day: €21
2 Days: €30
3 Days: €40
7 Days: €60

There is also a three-day youth card (for people between 18-29 years old) that costs €28. (Prices are accurate as of June 2022. Visit the ACTV website for current prices.)

With these travel cards you can hop on and off any vaporetto (including those to the islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello) and on all buses traveling within the city of Venice (including to Mestre and Marco Polo Airport). These cards eliminate the need to queue every time to buy a ticket and to carry change with you.

The tickets are not exactly cheap, but considering you have unlimited use of the transport system, they are well worth it. Just think how much it would cost if you wanted to visit Murano-Burano and Torcello and you had to pay for every single trip!

To learn more about the tickets, including instructions on how to use them, check out this handy ACTV webpage in English.

Where to buy Tourist transportation tickets

You can buy these transport passes at any vaporetto stop (there are usually ticket offices at the stops, otherwise you can buy on board and they almost always speaks English), in Piazzale Roma (in the ACTV ticket office), or in any tobacco shop that displays the “ACTV” sign. Here’s a full list of ticket offices.

You can also buy them online.

Tip: Consider Venezia Unica City Pass

In 2009, the Comune di Venezia introduced a combined card, City Pass Venezia Unica, for transport, museums, parking, and even Wi-Fi connections and access to public toilets. The prices vary because you can create your custom combination, depending on your needs during your trip. However, you can save up to 30% on a variety of museum passes. The savings vary depending on the period (low season, high season, special events, etc.).

Unfortunately, the card can only be purchased online and must be purchased more than two days before your arrival date in Venice. So the earlier you book it, the greater the saving. Since there is an initial cost just to buy the card, this pass is ideal for frequent visitors or those coming for a longer stay. For more information and to buy a card, visit the official website.

The post Venice: Save on vaporetto tickets with a Tourist Travel Card appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Carnevale Venezia 2019 kicks off on February 16th and comes to its grand finale on March 5th. The world-renowned festival itself is said to come from the Italian words “carne” (meat) and “levare” (to remove or withdraw). In former times, Venetians went all out partying and feasting just before the somber fasting of meat during the long period of Lent.

Today, Carnevale is still a huge occasion to have a bit of fantasy and fun. Here are ten tips for travelers headed to Venice on a budget this year or any year for Carnival.

Venice Hotels: 5 Budget accommodations with canal views

1. Masquerade for Free

In the old days, masks disguised the city’s citizens, hiding the identity, social status, and even sex of the wearer. Traditionally, they were crafted from paper mâché or leather. Original masks and costumes can be pricey; make-up artists around the city offer face-painting for less.

If you’re feeling lucky, fill out the form for free entry to the Best Masked Costume Contest. Final awarding happens on Sunday, February 24th.

Getting dressed up for Carnevale is an adventure.

2. Stay at the Lido

Lido is a great place to set up your home base during Carnevale if you want to save on accommodations. “We paid just €70 for a 3-star hotel for three people with a nice street view — affordable especially during high season,” says Maria, a UK resident. If you stay at this beach island, you can easily get to Venice and back by boat.

3. Take the Local Ferry for Canal Crossing

Instead of shelling out €80 for a 30-minute gondola ride, Jayne Seddon of Venice Events recommends doing as the locals do: taking the Traghetto, a ferry across the Grand Canal, for €4. Jayne also suggests eating at the pasticcerie (cake shops), where you can order an affordable cappuccino and a fritelle, the popular local snack.

(Tip: Have your coffee while standing at the bar to save.)

4. Join the Free Fest for Kids

Traveling with little ones? Don’t let that be an excuse to join in on the fun. Kids can participate in the 7th International Kids Carnival. There will be workshops, competitions, and crafts, so your young ones can party too. The best part? All the activities are free.

5. Head to Rialto Market

For the freshest seafood sold at local prices, visit Rialto Market early in the morning. You’ll find fishermen with their catch, hustling the way they have for centuries. Even if you’re not there to shop, just observing local market life is an experience in itself.

6. Have a Free Art Lesson

Observe how Venetian artisans manufacture Murano glass in the New Arte Fuga (Via Giudecca, 13), a Lume Glass Factory. You can watch them skillfully creating glass art when you download a coupon for freebies and discounts at New Arte Fuga here.

7. Island-hop with Interactive Apps

See Murano, Burano and Torcello for just €20 per person. Take the four-hour boat tour of three islands in Venice — guides can speak English, Spanish, German, French, and Italian. Isola di Burano, a unique and colorful city, is well worth exploring on a trip to Venice.

Then, back in Venice, check out the beautiful, recently reopened Scala Contarini del Bovolo. Movie buffs will recognize the magnificently arched spiral staircase from Orson Welles’ 1952 film, Othello. Use this interactive guide app from Artplace Museum.

8. Know Your Stuff

Read Detourism, the local online magazine with text in English. Its publishers say their idea of “de-tourism” is to enable visitors to travel the city slowly and experience a more authentic Venice. From the canal cruises to the backstreets, you can read and uncover hidden stories.

9. Do a Pub Crawl “Venetian style”

The folks at Venice Events organize fantastic Venetian bar hops. You come in costume, then meander through the labyrinth of the city’s small alleyways and squares.  The pub crawl goes to four local barcari (bars), and €45 per person includes wine, aperitivi, and insights from your guide.

10. Party at The Arsenal

An old shipyard, called The Arsenal, now on its second edition of “Nights at The Arsenal” is the new hottest place for night owls to party. Pyrotechnics, theater magic and thumping dance floors are energized with live music by international DJs.

While each event at the Arsenal has an entrance fee, you can get a better deal online when you purchase the digital ADA ticket (“All Day Access)” for discounts, private entrances and a pass to all events for just €50 a head.

Special thanks to Venice Events for help with this article. www.venice-carnival-italy.com

The post Venice Carnival: 10 ways to save money and see more appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

According to news reports, this new law was intended to prevent sound pollution and damage to the city’s historic cobblestones. Rolling offenders would face fines of €500!

Why, oh why would they do this? Doesn’t the city rely upon tourists rolling forth from the train station, water taxis and vaporetti? What are you supposed to do—carry your suitcase for long distances? It’s a war on tourists!

But before you go online and cancel your big vacation plans for Venice, everybody just take a deep breath. It’s not happening. No law was ever passed. And furthermore, the story seems to hang on a detail that was either lost in translation or simply overlooked. And then everyone’s imagination sort of ran off with it.

But let’s rewind…

What was proposed?

The first we heard about this improbable story here in Venice was late last week, on November 20, when the local papers ran headlines declaring that Venice had started a war against rolling suitcases, or trolleys. Most newspapers, even if they mentioned that this was merely a proposal and not yet a law, went ahead and published the date when the law would be enforced, including details about how much people would be fined.

Unsurprisingly, the news shot around the Web and pretty soon Venice-bound travelers with more than a backpack went into a panic, writing to people like me (I live here and run a travel blog), asking for confirmation of the news.

I thought it was a joke and laughed the whole thing off, wondering why people were so worried: This is Italy, even if we pass a crazy law, we never enforce it, so why all the panic?

But immediately the international newspapers picked up the story. On Friday, November 21, stories appeared on the BBC, and on Yahoo! Travel (under the headline, “No Joke: Venice Is Banning All Wheeled Suitcases for Tourists”). CNN chimed in, under the headline, “Venice to Ban Wheeled Suitcases”:

City officials have become so tired with the cacophony of rumbling luggage they’re introducing fines of up to 500 euros ($620) for anyone caught using one. The move, due to come into effect in May 2015, is likely to create a headache for many of 22 million who annually visit the city and need to cart bags to hotels in car-free streets.

Oh boy, things were now officially out of control.

So Friday, that same day, Special Commissioner Vittorio Zappalorto (appointed to run the city after the local mayor was arrested for corruption a few months ago) issued another press release. In it, he denied that Venice was going to ban rolling suitcases and clarified that the proposed law would affect only push carts used by vendors.

This is Italy. It is totally normal here to have one official issue a statement one day that is immediately overturned the next.

The next day, Time Magazine published an article under the headline, “Venice Wants to Ban Your Noisy, Offending Suitcase Wheels” in which the magazine declares, “Leave your efficient, easy-to-transport wheelie suitcase at home, says the gondola-filled city.”

The story obviously has, um, wheels. How could it be stopped? Even if it’s wrong, it appears to be too tasty for journalists to correct.

The press releases

I took the time to translate the two official press releases. I think you can make up your own mind.

Here’s he first press release by a local sub-commissioner. (Read in Italian here.) I’ve highlighted the most important part of the story.

November 20, 2014

The measures for the protection of the city, the joint statements of the sub-commisioner Scagnamiglio and the manager Dorigo.

The Special Administration of the City of Venice, making theirs a will already manifested by the previous Administration, has taken over the review activities of its endowment regulation, among these the one already in an advanced stage of working on building code.

The definition of the new text is currently in phase (administratively optional) of consultation with the professional bodies and categories for the sole purpose of improving the normative content in order to achieve maximum sharing. Among the objectives of the new regulation there was the need to find space for the management of the critical issues related to urban decay and the intensive tourist use of the largest monument in the world today, attacked by at least 27 million tourists.

In this context, an article of the draft Regulation aims to manage the protection of public places (streets and bridges), and the increasing noise pollution that the mobility of a city which moves goods and things without cars, forces on pushing wheels. Therefore it has been proposed to the interlocutors of the table for consultation, the provision (art. 23, para 7) which prohibits, over the historic center of the Old City and the Islands the use of means of transport for materials, all objects or persons on wheels, which are not of rubber or tire inflated with air or liquid.

The standard also wants to respond to the needs of the many people who in recent years have turned to the Administration indicating the severe discomfort they suffer in their homes related to the movement of goods and property in times acoustically protected by the legislation (during the night or early morning ), where the major acoustic inconvenience, generated from the provision of commercial activities (pallets of goods) or tourism (transported bed linen), focuses, all combined with a historical paving, consisting of “masegni – paving stones”, like the Venetian one (which is covered by a national law). Numerous are also, especially in recent years, the disturbing signs of a progressive deterioration and wear of the pavements and bridges which survived at first, free of damage, for hundreds of years.

It is also, of easy resolution, the possibility of adaptation of all means to the new provisions, through adapters, that companies will offer to the market and that could be of great use to all the historical centers, developing opportunity that improves quality of life to the residents in town centers with high-quality roadways.

The sub-commissioner of the City of Venice, Dott. Michele Scognamiglio, and the director Sportello Unico Edilizia del Comune di Venezia, dott. Maurizio Dorigo

This is the second press release issued by the Special Commissioner Zappalorto on November 21, 2014. (Read in Italian.)

Trolley banned in Venice, the denial of the Commissioner Zappalorto

The commissioner of the City of Venice, Vittorio Zappalorto, with a note, wanted to deny the news, which appeared yesterday in a local newspaper reported and today in many newspapers and also by the international press, regarding the trolleys, which would be prohibited in the historic center unless with rubber tires inflated with air.

“I intend to deny with the utmost firmness that the City of Venice has ever thought to ban trolleys in the historic center. The draft of the building code that, I want to repeat, is a draft and which editorial work has already started with the last administration and had a further definition these days by the staff of the sub Commissioner Michele Scognamiglio, is currently undergoing a participatory process by sending it to the professional associations.

The document contains only a reference to the means of transport of goods by land, namely the carts and the pallets, that having hard wheels ruin the historical Venetian masegni, as well as causing noise pollution especially annoying if it takes place in the early hours of the morning, when many citizens still sleep. The solution to this problem must be clearly studied and shared together with the Superintendent, to the economic categories and, in general, the stakeholders.

As for the trolleys, certainly the hard wheels contribute to damaging the paving stones of the streets and squares, and especially the bridges, precisely because of the constant blows caused by the climbs and descents. This does not mean, however, that the City will ban the use of it from May. The draft is intended to regulate only, I repeat once again, with the consultation of all interested parties, the movements of goods by land in the historic city.

Any other interpretation on the subject is imaginative and not true. If then, thanks to the media brawl that followed this false scoop, some company in the industry will find appropriate solutions for the problems of Venice as in other ancient cities that share the same problems of the passage of the trolley and suitcases on wheels with our historical center, this will undoubtedly be a meritorious action that will contribute to the preservation of our architectural heritage and tranquility of residents and tourists themselves. ”

Venice, November 21, 2014 / po

Final thoughts

So then, if you are a very suspicious person like myself, you could also read into these two statements that perhaps someone in the committee must own a company that’s ready to sell some kind of rubber wheeley thingy? (Sorry, that is the Italian in me!)

All I can say is, don’t change your plans to come to Venice on account of your suitcase. Nobody is, or ever was going to, fine you for rolling along.

Now, if only we could get the international press to pay attention and correct the story. But of course, those headlines would be less alluring.

The post Roll with it, Folks: Venice is not going to ban your suitcase appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

I’m here to encourage you not to skip this enchanting city, and to offer you five easy ways to save money in Venice as an incentive.

1. Book a visit to St. Mark’s Basilica in advance

After wandering aimlessly through the maze of Venice (which, incidentally, is totally free), the next thing on any must-do list should be St. Mark’s Basilica. This striking cathedral with its onion domes, brilliant golden mosaics, and undulating floor anchors its namesake piazza and, in some ways, the whole city. The basilica itself is free to enter, which makes it not only a general must-see but a delight for Cheapos.

During the high season, however, the basilica’s popularity is evident the second you walk into St. Mark’s Square – the lines can stretch nearly as far as the Grand Canal, especially once the cruise ships pull into port for the day. To avoid the long wait in line, you can certainly set your alarm and queue up early – but if you’d rather sleep in, you can book an entry to the basilica in advance online.

Now, the booking service charges €1, so you might be wondering why a free attraction is made cheaper by paying €1 for it – and that’s a fair question. What that €1 saves you is time, which is an incredibly precious commodity when you’re on vacation. If I can pay €1 to avoid waiting an hour in line, that gives me an extra hour to use elsewhere in Venice – and that’s a pretty big deal. If your time is worth less than €1/hour, then we need to talk.

(Note that the reservation service is only available April-October – the rest of the year, the lines aren’t usually long enough to justify booking ahead.)

2. Get a Venice Discount Card for transportation

Venice, like many popular tourist cities around the world, has a few discount cards available that offer cheaper or free entry to attractions. Those cards often feel like they’re not a deal because it’s a chunk of money up front, but in many cities they can save you a bundle. In Venice, it’s the transportation-only cards that are likely to be the best deal.

Because so many people only stay in the city for a couple of days and most don’t have many “sights” on their must-see list, it’s more likely that you’ll spend money on vaporetto tickets than you will on museum entry fees. Those vaporetto tickets are way more expensive than they should be, if you ask me – €6.50 for a ticket? That’s ridiculous, even if each ticket lasts an hour. Wander too long and you’re stuck buying another ticket.

Rather than forking over €6.50 per ticket, you can get a 12-hour transportation card for €16 or a 24-hour card for just €18. If you’ll be flying in or out of Venice, you can even get a card that includes a one-way transfer to/from the airport for an additional €3. These cards are good for the trips out to nearby Murano, Burano, and Torcello, too. You can browse these cards (the prices vary a bit by the season) and book directly from the Venice Connected site.

3. Grab a group for that gondola ride

Taking a gondola ride seems like the thing to do in Venice – the kind of thing that, if you skip it, makes you feel like you haven’t really been to the city. (I’m all for skipping it entirely, but I’m in the minority on that one.) If you’ve got your heart set on a gondola ride but don’t think you can afford it, I’ve got two options for you.

First, you can take a quick gondola ride across the Grand Canal for a whopping €1-2 by hopping in a traghetto. These are gondolas that ferry passengers back and forth across the canal at points where there’s no nearby footbridge, and Venetians ride them all the time. This is a short ride – in fact, they’re so short that the Venetians don’t even bother to sit down – so it’s not at all the romantic gondola ride you’re imagining, but it’s certainly cheapo and very local.

Second, you can go with a group. Gondola rides are priced by the ride itself, not by the number of passengers in the gondola, so if you’ve got a group who’s willing to split the cost then it’s immediately much more budget-friendly. You can ask at gondola stations about joining a group, or you can book a spot on a group ride ahead of time (the latter is more expensive at €40/person, but if you’re traveling solo it’s worth considering).

Remember also to be aware of the gondola rates before you go, too. The current gondola fares are €80 for a 40-minute ride before 7 pm., with each additional 20 minutes costing €40 – knowing the official rates will help you avoid gondoliers who are trying to gouge you.

4. Go church-hopping

St. Mark’s Basilica is gorgeous and rightfully the most famous church in Venice – but glance around the city skyline and you’ll see plenty of other towers with crosses on top. Some of those churches charge a small entry fee, but many are completely free to enter – and free is a very good price.

San Giorgio Maggiore is a Palladio-designed church on its own island off the Giudecca, which you can see from the square in front of the Doge’s Palace. The church dates from the mid-16th century and has two Tintoretto paintings. Santa Maria della Salute lies almost opposite the Doge’s Palace across the Grand Canal, an octagonal white church with a dominant dome. The Salute dates from the mid-17th century and houses works by both Titian and Tintoretto. San Zaccaria may not have as impressive a location, but the crypt here dates from the 9th century and is home to the graves of eight doges.

Each of these churches mentioned offers a combination of art and history, plus an excuse to step inside if the weather’s not great, and none of them will cost you a thing except a few minutes of your time.

5. Don’t sit down for a snack in St. Mark’s Square

Venice is notorious for its mediocre and overpriced food, and it’s a well-deserved reputation. You can find good food in Venice, but it’s often still on the expensive side. Nowhere is getting a bite to eat more unnecessarily costly, however, than in the bars around St. Mark’s Square.

I’m all for paying for ambiance in some places, and when the cafe bands are in “dueling” mode St. Mark’s Square is a feast for the ears as well as the eyes – but the prices on simple things like coffee or a hot chocolate, let alone a cocktail, are beyond outrageous. Rather than paying a premium for a seat at one of those costly cafes, wander into the square from a nearby gelateria and enjoy a leisurely stroll around the grand piazza. The only thing you’ll miss out on is a seat, but you’ll have enough money leftover for a second (and third) gelato – and that’s always a good thing.

Oh, and don’t try sitting down in the piazza anywhere but on an official seat, either, as that’s strictly forbidden. There are even “decorum police” who sometimes patrol the square and hand out fines. Yes, really.

About the author: Portland-based travel writer Jessica Spiegel is the resident Italophile at BootsnAll, the indie travel resource. Venice is one of her favorite places on earth, so don’t try to tell her it’s overrated. She also loves Naples and New Orleans, so clearly she’s got a thing for cities with PR issues. You’ll find her regularly on Twitter as @italylogue.

The post Venice: 5 simple ways to save in Venice appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.