Updated September 17, 2023

Generally, Venice is a safe destination. With some local help, we put together this guide to safety in Venice. It covers everything from the coronavirus to tips for solo travelers.

What is the COVID situation in Venice like right now?

Italy is open for travel! There’s no need for Americans to present proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test. 

While you’re there, make sure you know the current COVID-19 rules and follow them. 

Safety in Venice

Romantic and historic, Venice is among the most popular cities to visit in Italy. Crisscrossed by lovely canals and breathtaking bridges, it’s a favorite destination for newlyweds, art lovers, and anyone enchanted by Italy’s charms. 

As a popular tourist destination, however, locals say there are some things visitors should keep in mind: 

• Watch for pickpockets
• Be on your guard in crowds
• Avoid carrying valuables 

Venice is a beloved place to visit in Italy and home to many top Italian tourist attractions. That means that it’s generally safe, but you should be on your guard as you enjoy popular sights. 

Common scams in Venice

Italy is safe, but locals say you should be aware of some common scams that target tourists. To avoid a scam, we suggest following a few simple guidelines:

• Don’t accept gifts from strangers: If someone approaches with a gift—perhaps a gold ring, bracelet, or rose—firmly refuse. Accepting the gift will result in a demand for payment.
• Be cautious on Vaporetto (water bus): Pickpockets have been known to board the Vaporetto (Venice’s water buses) to steal wallets. Transportation in Italy is largely safe, but be on your guard in crowded areas.
• Keep your belongings close: Don’t put your wallet in your back pocket or sling your purse over your shoulder. This could make you a target to thieves. 
• Beware of fake petitions: If someone approaches you with a petition, you should refuse to engage. Scammers will commonly approach with a petition to distract someone and pick their pockets. 

As these scams can occur throughout Italy, keep them in mind whether you’re enjoying the canals of Venice or exploring all the fantastic things to see in Rome.

Is Venice safe for solo travelers?

Italy is a safe destination for solo travelers, and so is Venice. In fact, Venice is considered an especially safe place for solo travelers. (Although locals note that you may notice a lot of couples!)

There are some things that solo travelers should keep in mind: 

• Know how to get home at night: Although Venice is safe—even at night—be sure you know how to get home. And watch where you’re going! The city is full of narrow streets and canals. 
• Don’t accept drinks from strangers: If someone offers you a drink, be sure you see it made. This is true for solo travelers everywhere.

What to know about flooding (Acqua Alta)

A seaside city covered in canals, Venice does sometimes flood. Locals say this flooding, called Acqua Alta, usually happens in the fall. Floods—caused by rising tides—can last anywhere from three hours to a couple of days. 

Important Italian phrases

No matter where you go in Italy, it’s good to learn un po' di Italian. Locals in Italy tell us these are some important phrases to know:

• Per favore—Please
• Grazie—Thank you
• Prego—You’re welcome
• Buongiorno—Good-morning
• Mi scusi—Excuse me
• Scusi, mi può dire come arrivare al...—Excuse me, could you tell me how to get to…

As a popular tourist destination, Venice is a good place to stay in Italy if you don’t speak any Italian. Most people you encounter will speak some English. That being said, it’s always good to know a few words. “Hello” and “thank you” go a long way! 

Emergency numbers to know

Cities throughout Italy are generally quite safe—from Venice to Milan to Rome—but in case you run into any trouble, here are some good numbers to know:

• For general emergencies—113 (Italy-specific) or 112 (European emergency number)
• To call an ambulance—118
• US Embassy in Rome—39 06 46741