Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Etiquette
Venetians are generous about sharing their home with so many visitors - tens of millions
annually. But when visitors clog the
calli
(lanes) and block
vaporetto
entrances, Venetians
can't get to work and family obligations on time.
To be a gracious guest and help prevent tourist gridlock, keep to the right-hand side of
the
calle
, try not to linger on bridges, don't push, and allow passengers to disembark be-
fore boarding boats.
Money
Venice built an empire through international trade, and continues to encourage it with
ATMs throughout the city. Many eating and drinking establishments are cash only, and
some shops may give you a small discount if you pay cash instead of using a credit card
and thus avoid vendor service fees.
For more information,
Click here
.
Taxes & Refunds
If you're staying overnight within Venice, expect to pay €3 to €5 in tourist tax per person
for up to five nights (additional nights are free). Children and hostels are exempt from the
tax.
VAT (value-added tax) of around 20% is added to purchases over €155 in Italy, but it
may be possible to reclaim it - see
Click here
.
Tipping
»
Restaurants
Tips of 10% are standard - though check to see that a tip hasn't already
been added to your bill, or included in the flat
coperto
(cover) charge. Change is often left
on the counter at cafes and
bacari
.
»
Hotels
One euro per bag is standard for baggage handling; €1 per night for cleaning
service is welcome.
»
Transport
Tips may be given for gondolas and water-taxi service graciously
provided, especially if singing is involved.
