Venice Beyond the Crowds: How to Visit Responsibly

By Matteo, Context Expert in Venice

Venice is a city like no other—floating on the water, steeped in history, and overflowing with beauty. But beneath the romantic facades and gondola-filled canals lies a growing crisis: over tourism. Every year, millions of visitors flood the city, often for just a few hours, straining its delicate infrastructure and pushing out local residents. If you truly want to experience Venice—not just consume it—here’s how to travel responsibly and help protect La Serenissima for generations to come.

Stay, Don’t Commute

"One of the biggest strains on Venice is the influx of day-trippers. These visitors contribute to crowds but spend little time or money supporting local businesses. If you’re planning a trip, consider staying at least three full days and booking accommodations within Venice itself—or on nearby islands like Murano or Lido—rather than the mainland or a cruise ship."

Avoid Peak Season and Major Holidays

"Venice is breathtaking year-round, but visiting outside of peak months (May–September) and avoiding major holidays can help ease the pressure on the city. Plus, the quieter months allow for a more intimate experience, where you can truly connect with Venice beyond the crowds."

Dine and Shop Locally

"Skip the international chains and seek out Venetian-owned restaurants, bakeries, and bars. The same goes for shopping: Instead of cheap, mass-produced souvenirs, support authentic Venetian craftsmanship like Murano glass and Burano lace. Your choices directly impact the survival of local artisans and family-run businesses."

Explore Beyond St. Mark’s Square

"Venice is more than just its postcard-famous landmarks. Wander into the city’s lesser-known neighborhoods—Cannaregio, Dorsoduro, Castello—where you’ll find quiet canals, hidden gardens, and authentic local life. Walking is not only the best way to experience Venice but also the most sustainable."

Respect the City

"Venice’s 'Respect Venice' campaign encourages visitors to follow simple, respectful guidelines: No picnicking on bridges, no swimming in canals, and no oversized luggage dragging through narrow streets. Travel with mindfulness, and Venice will reveal its magic in return."

Visit Venice with Context

Visiting Venice responsibly isn’t just about avoiding the crowds—it’s about making choices that support the city’s future. From exploring beyond the hot spots to dining and shopping locally, small actions can help preserve La Serenissima for generations to come. Tourism should enrich destinations rather than deplete them. Context's expert-led tours in Venice encourage mindful exploration, ensuring that your visit leaves a positive impact on Venice and its local community.

About Matteo: Originally from Venetian mainland, Matteo has lived in different countries, which sparked his interest in art history and archaeology. He holds a B.A. in Cultural Heritage Preservation and an M.A. in Archaeology - specializing in Islamic Archaeology - from the University Ca' Foscari, Venezia. Matteo chose to specialize in Islamic Archaeology due to his personal passion and curiosity for the Islamic World. This particular interest was developed after several travels and stays in different Middle Eastern countries.

He has worked as a freelance archaeologist following projects in different locations of the Veneto Region in Italy and in Cairo, Egypt. Matteo became a qualified tourist guide for the City of Venice in 2009, and he has been collaborating with Context since then.