Venice on a budget: our suggestions

Who said Venice is only for luxury travelers? The truth is, “La Serenissima” can be easy-going and accessible, if you know where to look (and how to get around).
Whether you’re a backpacker, a curious young explorer, or simply want a romantic weekend without blowing the budget, here are our tips to enjoy Venice on a budget—without missing out on its magic.

1. Stay on the Lido (and choose the Giardinetto)

The Lido is the perfect base: smart, comfortable, and great value. You’re just minutes by vaporetto from historic Venice—but you stay away from the crowds. Plus, you get sea, nature, and lagoon sunsets.
At the Giardinetto, you also enjoy fast Wi‑Fi everywhere, a shady garden to relax (or work remotely!), and plenty of local insider tips.

2. Travel like a local: get an ACTV travel card

The most authentic (and eco-friendly) way to see Venice is by vaporetto. We recommend a 24‑, 48‑, or 72‑hour ACTV Travel Card—so you can hop on and off, visit islands like Murano, Burano, Torcello, head to the Lido beach, or go back home with a Canal Grande view.
Bonus: the vaporetto ride itself is part of the experience!

3. Culture on a budget

Many Venetian museums offer free days or discounts for under‑30s and students. Check out places like Museo Correr, the Archaeological Museum, or Palazzo Grimani.
Also explore churches and palaces open for free—such as Basilica della Salute or San Zaccaria.

4. Venetian street food: cicchetti and spritz

Eating well in Venice on a budget is totally doable! Head to a bacaro and order a plate of cicchetti (Venetian tapas) with a spritz (around €4–5). Try baccalà mantecato, sardine in saor, or a canal-view tramezzino.

5. Explore on foot (and get delightfully lost)

The best (and free) thing in Venice is … Venice itself. Wander without a plan, get lost in calle, cross hidden bridges, enter campos where kids play football and grandparents chat on benches.
Every corner is postcard-worthy—and every glance is a photo opportunity.

6. Free events and local happenings

Always check what’s on: open-air concerts, temporary exhibitions, eco‑events, vintage markets, cultural talks.
Visit www.visitlido.it for the latest updates on activities right here on the island—nature, sea, events.

Ready for smart Venice?

At Hotel Giardinetto, we’re happy to help you design your tailored Venetian getaway: book tickets, share insider tips, plan offbeat itineraries—just ask at reception!
Because enjoying Venice without stress (and without breaking the bank) is absolutely possible. And we’re here to help you love it as much as we do. 💛