Solo travel in Venice: 7 tips from a local

Solo travel can be one of the most empowering and memorable experiences ever.

It gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, follow your instincts, and truly connect with a destination, creating stories and memories that are truly yours.

Venice, with its canals, bridges, and centuries of history, is a dream for many solo travellers. But what is it really like to explore this unique floating city on your own?

I’ve been travelling to Venice for years and both in the past and now I sometimes travel there solo. Whether you’re here for a short city break or a longer Italian adventure, Venice is one of the most rewarding places to visit alone.

Venice Solo Travel: 7 Tips from a Local

In this guide, I’ll share my best local tips for navigating the city with confidence, keeping safe, and making the most of your time, all from the perspective of someone who knows Venice inside and out (it’s like a letter from a local friend).

By reading below, you’ll learn:

• Why Venice is a fantastic destination for solo female travellers.
• Practical advice for arriving in the city.
• Tips on how to find the right accommodation, and getting around.
• Safety tips that are simple but highly effective.
• How to enjoy eating out, sightseeing, and exploring hidden corners alone.
• A curated list of highlights and experiences that work well for solo visitors.

By the end, you’ll be ready to plan your trip with confidence and excitement.

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Why Venice is perfect for Solo Female Travellers

Venice has a reputation as a romantic city for couples, but that doesn’t mean it’s strictly for lovers. In fact, solo female travellers often find Venice fascinating.

Firstly, the city is walkable and compact. You don’t need to rely heavily on transport once you’re in the historic centre, most attractions, cafes, and shops are just a stroll away. Unlike some sprawling European cities, you won’t feel overwhelmed by distance or endless transfers.

Secondly, Venice is generally a safe destination. Of course, like anywhere with large crowds, you need to watch out for pickpockets in some of the busy tourist areas.

But violent crime is very rare, and walking around the canals or squares in the daytime is safe and enjoyable. Even at night, you’ll usually find other people around, especially near popular spots like Rialto or St. Mark’s Square.

Finally, Venice offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy experiences on your own terms, from visiting museums and churches to joining group tours, artisan workshops, or cooking classes.

It’s a city that blends solitude with social opportunities, which makes it ideal if you like a balance of me-time and connection.

If you’ll be spending your trip here alone, why not take a look at my solo female itinerary in Venice and find out what you can do in one day in the Lagoon city?

7 Tips for Solo Travel in Venice

1. Arriving in Venice like a pro

Getting into Venice can feel a little confusing at first, but there are several good options depending on your budget and travel style.

If you’re a solo traveller looking to save money, the bus from Marco Polo Airport or Treviso Airport is the most cost-effective choice.

It takes you directly to Piazzale Roma, the gateway to Venice’s historic centre, in under 30 minutes from Marco Polo and an hour from Treviso. From there, you can either walk or take a vaporetto (water bus) to your accommodation.

If you’d like the magic of arriving in Venice from the water without breaking the bank, the Alilaguna water bus is a great compromise. It’s slower than a private taxi but lets you sail right into the lagoon, watching Venice appear before your eyes.

And if you’re feeling sociable, shared water taxis are another option. You’ll spend more than on the bus, but less than on a private water taxi, and the ride itself is a memorable way to begin your solo adventure.

2. Where to stay when travelling solo

Accommodation is one of the biggest expenses when travelling alone, since you don’t have anyone to split the cost with. But Venice has options for every budget.

For budget-conscious travellers, there are several good hostels both in the historic centre and in Mestre, on the mainland. Hostels are not only affordable but also a great way to meet other travellers.

If you prefer more privacy, look for 2-or 3-star hotels in less touristy districts such as Cannaregio, Dorsoduro, or Castello. These areas still give you easy access to main attractions while offering more local charm and often lower prices compared to San Marco.

Whichever option you choose, book early, Venice is small and rooms fill up quickly, especially in spring and autumn. Last minute offers can be incredibly interesting, so book your accommodation with free cancellation, in case you find a last minute deal!

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3. Staying safe while wandering the canals

Venice is one of the safer cities in Europe, but a little preparation goes a long way.

Always leave valuables you don’t need in the hotel safe or locker. When you’re out, carry a bag that can’t easily be opened. I personally recommend Pacsafe bags, which are lightweight, compact, and anti-theft.

Your phone will probably be your lifeline: Google Maps for directions, tickets and passes stored digitally, and restaurant reviews on the go. That means your battery can drain quickly, so bring a portable charger.

At night, it’s best to stick to well-lit areas where other people are around. Venice is generally safe, but like in any city, you’ll feel more comfortable knowing you can quickly ask for help if needed. Save important numbers in your phone: your accommodation, plus emergency services (112 and 113 in Italy).

4. Dining in Venice as a solo traveller

One of the things many solo travellers worry about is dining alone, but in Venice it’s completely normal. With millions of visitors each year, you’ll see plenty of people sitting at cafes or restaurants by themselves.

In the city, nobody will think twice if you order a Spritz and cicchetti at a bacaro or sit down for a plate of seafood pasta. In fact, Venice’s social dining culture can make it easier to start conversations with people at neighbouring tables.

If you want to find out how to do your very own bacaro tour and immerse yourself in the local aperitivo culture, then get my bacaro tour maps before your trip!

If you venture into small villages in the Veneto region, you might get a few curious glances as a solo diner, but in Venice itself, you’ll blend right in. A good tip is to try bacari (Venetian wine bars), where eating standing up at the counter with locals makes solo dining feel completely natural.

5. Must-See highlights you’ll love solo

Exploring Venice solo means you can dive into the experiences that matter most to you. Here are some highlights that work especially well:

All of these places allow you to set your own pace. You don’t have to compromise or rush, just follow your interests.

6. Finding the quieter corners

Venice is one of the world’s most visited cities, but you’ll be surprised at how quickly you can find peace once you step away from the main routes.

Neighbourhoods like Dorsoduro and Castello are full of quiet streets, hidden courtyards, and local cafés where you can sit with a book or notebook. Some of my favourite places to relax include Caffè La Serra (a greenhouse café), the Biennale Gardens, and Fondamenta della Misericordia in Cannaregio.

For a more adventurous detour, head out to Sant’Elena or San Pietro di Castello, where daily Venetian life feels untouched by mass tourism. Or catch a vaporetto to Giudecca, where you’ll find wide canals, fewer crowds, and some of the best views of the city.

By getting my neighbourhood walking maps, you can explore off the beaten path, with the confidence of someone who knows the city inside out.

7. Embracing the magic of Venice solo

The real gift of travelling solo in Venice is freedom. You decide whether to spend an entire afternoon in a museum, get lost in alleyways, or sit by the canal with gelato watching gondolas glide past.

It’s also easier to connect with people. Many solo travellers find themselves chatting with locals or other visitors more often, whether during a guided tour, a cooking class, or simply at a café table. Venice attracts curious and open-minded people, so take the chance to engage, you never know who you’ll meet.

If you can, give yourself at least 3 days in the city. That way, you won’t feel rushed and can balance the must-sees with spontaneous exploration.

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Your Venice Solo Travel Trip Awaits

Travelling solo in Venice is not just about ticking off famous landmarks, it’s about giving yourself the chance to experience the city in your own way.

From arriving smoothly and choosing the right accommodation to staying safe, eating confidently, and uncovering both highlights and hidden gems, you’ll discover that Venice is a city that welcomes solo female travellers with open arms.

Whether you’re here for a weekend or a week, you’ll leave with memories that are entirely your own, shaped by your choices, your pace, and your curiosity. And that, in the end, is what makes solo travel so special.

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