The Insider's Guide to Venice

Welcome to Venice! If you're planning to move to Venice, congratulations on taking the first step towards a new adventure. While there are many things to think about before you leave, such as visas, housing, and transportation, it's important to remember that once you arrive, the fun really begins. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the best sites, restaurants, and nightlife that Venice has to offer, as well as provide tips on recreational activities and making friends in Venice.

Venice, is a city rich in history, culture, and breathtaking architecture. One of the most iconic sites is St. Mark's Square, the city's main public square, home to the stunning St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace. The Basilica, with its Byzantine mosaics and the Pala d'Oro, is a testament to Venice's historical wealth and power. The Doge's Palace, once the residence of the Venetian ruler, is now a museum showcasing art and historical artifacts. Another must-visit is the Rialto Bridge, the oldest of the four bridges spanning the Grand Canal, offering a picturesque view of the city.

For art enthusiasts, the Peggy Guggenheim Collection houses an impressive collection of modern art, while the Gallerie dell'Accademia showcases Venetian art from the 14th to 18th centuries. The Scuola Grande di San Rocco, adorned with Tintoretto's paintings, is another gem. For a unique experience, visit the island of Murano, famous for its long-standing tradition of glass-making. Watch artisans at work and explore the Glass Museum to learn about the history of this craft.

Venice's restaurant and nightlife scene is as diverse as its history. Osteria Bancogiro, near the Rialto Bridge, offers traditional Venetian dishes with a modern twist, while Trattoria Antiche Carampane, a favorite among locals, serves seafood specialties. For a romantic dinner, Terrazza Danieli offers panoramic views of the city along with its gourmet menu. Al Covo, run by a husband-and-wife team, is known for its fresh, locally sourced ingredients and warm atmosphere.

For drinks, Harry's Bar is a historic institution, famous for inventing the Bellini cocktail. Skyline Rooftop Bar offers stunning views of the city, while El Sbarlefo San Pantalon is a cozy wine bar with a wide selection. For a more lively scene, head to Campo Santa Margherita, a square filled with bars and cafes popular among students and young locals.

Recreational activities in Venice often revolve around its unique geography and architecture. A gondola ride along the Grand Canal is a quintessential Venetian experience, offering a unique perspective of the city's palaces and bridges. For a more active option, try a rowing lesson with Row Venice, where you can learn to navigate the city's canals like a local.

Walking tours are a popular way to explore the city, with companies like Walks of Italy offering guided tours of the city's landmarks. For a break from the city, take a boat trip to the nearby islands of Burano, known for its colorful houses and lace-making, and Torcello, home to the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta with its stunning Byzantine mosaics.

Finally, for those interested in the performing arts, a visit to Teatro La Fenice, one of Italy's most famous and historic opera houses, is a must. Whether you're attending a performance or taking a guided tour, it's a chance to immerse yourself in the city's rich cultural heritage.

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Insider Tips from Expats in Venice: Making the Most of Life and Connections

"Expats in Venice often join various clubs and activities to meet new people and immerse themselves in the local culture. These include language exchange groups, where they can practice their Italian and help locals with English. They may also join cooking classes to learn about traditional Venetian cuisine, or art classes to explore the city's rich artistic heritage.Book clubs are another popular choice, offering a chance to discuss literature in a relaxed, social setting. For those interested in sports, joining a local gym or sports club can be a great way to meet people. There are also numerous cultural societies and organizations that expats can join, such as the Venice International Women's Club, which organizes regular events and activities.In addition to joining clubs and activities, expats often meet people through their work or studies. Networking events and business meetups can be a good way to make professional connections. Similarly, attending local festivals and events can provide opportunities to meet locals and other expats.Volunteering is another excellent way to meet people and give back to the community. There are many charities and non-profit organizations in Venice that welcome the help of expats. Finally, simply exploring the city and striking up conversations with locals can lead to new friendships. Whether it's chatting with the owner of a local café, or getting to know the neighbors, there are plenty of opportunities to meet people in Venice," said one expat living in Venice.

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Become ‘Italian for a While’ with IFA! Learn in Italy on a 1-week to 12-month program - open to students, young adults, graduates, digital nomads, professionals, groups, faculty-led programs, and more. Take courses at an accredited school while immersing yourself in the language, life, and culture among your international peers. Submit an inquiry with IFA to learn more.
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"Life for expats and digital nomads in Venice is a unique blend of work and leisure, surrounded by the city's rich history and culture. They often live in rented apartments or shared spaces in the city's quieter neighborhoods, away from the tourist crowds. The city offers a variety of coworking spaces with reliable internet, making it easier for them to work remotely. Expat life in Venice is also about immersing oneself in the local culture, learning Italian, and enjoying the city's world-renowned cuisine. The city's public transportation, mainly consisting of vaporettos (water buses), is a unique experience, and walking is also a common way to get around the compact city. Despite being a tourist hotspot, Venice has a close-knit community feel, and expats often find themselves forming strong bonds with locals and other expats. However, the city can be expensive, and the cost of living is something to consider. Venice's rich arts scene, with its numerous galleries, museums, and festivals, provides ample opportunities for leisure and inspiration. The city's proximity to other European destinations also makes it a great base for those who wish to travel and explore. However, Venice's popularity as a tourist destination can also be a downside, with overcrowding during peak seasons. The city is also grappling with issues of flooding and subsidence, which can pose challenges. Despite these, many expats and digital nomads find the city's charm and lifestyle hard to resist," commented an expat living in Venice.

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Become ‘Italian for a While’ with IFA! Learn in Italy on a 1-week to 12-month program - open to students, young adults, graduates, digital nomads, professionals, groups, faculty-led programs, and more. Take courses at an accredited school while immersing yourself in the language, life, and culture among your international peers. Submit an inquiry with IFA to learn more.

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Italian For A While

Become ‘Italian for a While’ with IFA! Learn in Italy on a 1-week to 12-month program - open to students, young adults, graduates, digital nomads, professionals, groups, faculty-led programs, and more. Take courses at an accredited school while immersing yourself in the language, life, and culture among your international peers. Submit an inquiry with IFA to learn more.
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