Venice has long been popular with tourists from across the globe. A unique city built on water, it’s easy to see the appeal of “La Serenissima”. Until recently, Venice was a popular cruise ship destination with thousands of visitors to the main island each day. However, with mass tourism, comes vast crowds, inflated prices and pollution. We visited the Lagoon city just after lockdown and, without the hordes, it was easy see a bit of the real and authentic Venice.
Behind the mask of tourism, the charm and character of the city is evident. The businesses that focus on local quality (rather than passing trade) are thriving. Shops and restaurants selling authentic Venetian products do not seem to have been affected as much by the lull in tourism, as trade with locals has remained strong. It has been the overpriced eateries and imported souvenirs that have been hit the hardest.
Authentic Venice
So where are the best places to experience the true, authentic Venice? We have compiled a list of activities to help you discover some of the real Venice and how to have a positive impact on the city.
Libreria Acqua Alta
Libreria Acqua Alta is a Venetian bookstore that has accepted its fate. The “City of Water” is liable to flooding and this particular shop suffers regularly – its name literally means Book Store of High Water. In an attempt to combat this, the books are kept in waterproof bins, bathtubs and even a gondola.
The store is a really interesting place to spend some time browsing through the quirky second hand books and marvelling at the ingenious methods used to keep them afloat. There is even a staircase made of books that leads to a pleasant view point over one of the many canals. Browse through books and artwork old and new, who knows what gems you might uncover.
Seafood and Spritz
Seafood dishes, pizza and Aperol Spritz are popular with Venetians. Try “Ristorante Pizzeria Ai Tre Archi“ as it is a favourite with locals in the Cannaregio area of the city. Spend an afternoon relaxing in a bar with a terrace. Sit back and enjoy an ice cold Spritz while watching the world go by.
There are hundreds of wells in Venice with great drinking water. Take a refillable water bottle with you to save on plastic waste.
The Bridge of Sighs
During peak season, which is most of the year in Venice, crowds of people try to take the best “Insta worthy” shot of the famous Bridge of Sighs. This bridge is not only beautifully ornate, but it has a fascinating history. Built at the beginning of the 17th century, the “Ponte dei Sospiri” connects the Palace of the Doges to the prison. The bridge takes its, somewhat sinister, name from the despair of the prisoners passing over the canal for the last time. Many tourists unknowingly pose for cheerful selfies in front of the bridge. For a different angle, and to avoid the crowds along Riva degli Schiavoni, try stepping off the main thoroughfare and taking a quick snap from just below the Ponte della Paglia – HERE.
“Una Pausa”
A busy day exploring the city might require “una Pausa”. This is how Italians describe a quick break (a pause) for coffee. Typically, locals will have a cappuccino at breakfast times then very rapid espresso breaks throughout the day. Coffee across the country is of a really high standard so make sure to try a few different places.
Authentic Venice Views
Rialto is another famous bridge in Venice – there are over 400 connecting different parts of the city. Walking over the bridge provides a beautiful view of the Grand Canal. However, the lesser known Punta della Accademia has an even more striking outlook. A humble wooden bridge, it is not crowded with tourists, but the view of the Grand Canal going out to the sea is spectacular. Take a walk over the bridge at sunrise or sunset to see some truly stunning colours over the water.
Authentic Venetian Jewellery
The Rialto Bridge is home to some great shops and it’s easy to spend a lot of time browsing. However, the area can become very crowded. If you’re looking for authentic Venetian jewellery, try Eredi Jovon. They make gorgeous Cameos by hand and they will even create bespoke images onto jewellery for you. The shop has been on Rialto Bridge since 1934, passed through three generations and is synonymous with beautiful, traditional cameos.
We stopped to have a chat with the owner. He was pleased that the current tourist situation had led to a decrease in cheap imitation souvenirs and a rise in demand for quality Venetian merchandise. He also noted that the type of tourists visiting the city were now becoming increasingly interested in the deeper history of authentic Venice, and its culture, and less concerned about ticking off bucket list items. This will hopefully result in a more sustainable form of tourism for the future.
Churches in Venice
Venice, like the rest of Italy, is typically Roman Catholic. There are many impressive Churches across the city ranging from the humble 6th Century Chiesa di San Giacomo di Rialto to the extravagant Saint Mark’s Basilica. Services are held on Sundays but most churches can be visited throughout the week. Whatever your religion, or none, the churches are remarkable on the inside and out. The artwork and history of these buildings makes them really worthy of a visit and it gives an excellent insight into the lives and beliefs of Venetians throughout history.
The Jewish Ghetto
In 1516, Venice created a Jewish ghetto. Jews were confined to this area of Venice after fleeing other parts of Europe. Many Jews traded in pawn shops and later set up banks. The Ghetto is located in the northern part of the city as can be found HERE. There are several synagogues in Campo del Ghetto Nuovo along with the first bank in Venice. Have a stroll through the area to find modern Jewish food and culture and learn about the long history of Venetian Jews.
Tour with a Venetian
A really great way to learn more about authentic Venice, is from Venetians. We took an amazing tour with native Francesco. He taught us a lot about the history of the city and the modern day culture. We even stopped for some authentic Venetian snacks on the way. This is a fascinating free tour that survives on tips – check it out at GURUWALK.COM. Make sure you brush up on your history – you will be quizzed!
Saint Mark’s Square
Saint Mark’s Square is one of the most popular attractions in the city. It is spectacular, but in order to really appreciate it, try visiting in the early hours, before the crowds. Even now, with the current covid restrictions, it can still get busy (although nothing like it was before the pandemic). Wake up early and wander the square with only a few commuters, and the odd pigeon, for company.
Use the Traghetti in Venice
To get around the city like a local, avoid paying the big money for a private gondola and try the Traghetti. These are small boats that will take you from one side of the canal to the other for €2. It gives a similar experience to riding a gondola and saves you walking to find a bridge over the Grand Canal. Just hand over the cash and jump aboard.
Experience more of Authentic Venice
Venice has so much more to it than its famous tourist icons. Go off the beaten track and get lost down the narrow streets. It’s amazing what you’ll find and all you have to lose is the crowd.
We loved discovering a small part of authentic Venice and I believe we experienced so much more than most tourists will. Absorb a bit of the culture and history and acquire a deeper understanding of this complex city. Try out some of our tips and find your own little part of Venice.
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Where to next?
Albania can almost be seen from the shores of southern Italy. Why not try something different and visit Albania’s capital city, TIRANA
Have you visited Venice or Italy? Are you planning a trip and need more information? Drop a comment in the box, we’d love to hear from you!
I can’t wait to go back to Venice!! This is making my heart ache. Nothing beats an Aperol Spritz and Libreria Acqua Alta looks like a stunning place!!!