Private day trips from Venice to places you'll never forget

The official currency in Italy is the euro. Venice has numerous ATMs, though some charge fees for international cards. Credit cards are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants and shops, but smaller establishments and street vendors may prefer cash. It's advisable to carry euros for gondola rides, small purchases and tips.

The official language of Italy is Italian. In Venice's tourist areas, many people speak English, especially those working in hotels, restaurants and attractions. Learning basic Italian phrases like greetings and thank you is appreciated. Venetian dialect is still spoken by some locals, adding to the city's unique cultural identity.

The best time to visit Venice is April through May and September through October when weather is pleasant and crowds are smaller. These shoulder seasons offer comfortable temperatures for sightseeing without the summer heat or winter acqua alta flooding. February brings Carnival with elaborate masks and costumes, though crowds and prices surge during this period.

Popular day trips from Venice include Verona to see Juliet's balcony and Roman amphitheater, Padua for beautiful frescoes and historic university, and Treviso for charming canals and authentic Italian atmosphere. The Veneto region offers picturesque countryside, vineyards and villas. Cortina d'Ampezzo provides stunning Dolomite mountain scenery for nature lovers.

Venice is generally safe for tourists with low violent crime. Pickpocketing is the main concern in crowded areas like St. Mark's Square, on vaporettos and near major attractions. Keep valuables secure and be aware of surroundings. Tourist scams exist, including overpriced restaurants and unauthorized tour guides. Watch your step on slippery bridges and walkways.

Venice is famous for its unique canal system with over 400 bridges connecting 118 small islands. The city is renowned for St. Mark's Basilica with its Byzantine mosaics, gondola rides through waterways, Murano glass artisans, and Burano's colorful houses. Venice Carnival masks, Rialto Bridge and being a car-free city add to its distinctive character.

Pack comfortable, waterproof walking shoes as Venice requires extensive walking over cobblestones and bridges. Bring layers as weather can change quickly, plus a light rain jacket. Modest clothing is required for churches, covering shoulders and knees. In fall and winter, pack boots for potential acqua alta flooding. Sunscreen and sunglasses are essential in summer.

Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE) is the main airport, located 8 miles (13 kilometers) from the city center.