Venice is a car-free city, and the only way to get around is on foot or by water.

Visit quieter areas like Cannaregio for its local vibe, Dorsoduro for art galleries and museums, and Giudecca Island for great views of Venice across the water.

Gondola rides are iconic but expensive. If a private gondola isn’t essential, try a traghetto (public gondola) to cross the Grand Canal for a few euros.

Swimming in Venice’s canals is prohibited and fined due to water quality and safety reasons. If you want a swim, head to Lido Island, where there are beautiful sandy beaches just a short Vaporetto ride away.