Venice is one of the most magical places in Italy… but it can also feel a little overwhelming (and pricey) if you’re not prepared. Between the tourist-packed alleys, overpriced gondola rides, and €10 ($11 USD) coffees in St. Mark’s Square, it’s easy to blow your budget before lunch.
That’s exactly why I put together this list of 21 awesome things to do in Venice that are budget-friendly, way less crowded, and still totally unforgettable. Whether it’s your first visit or you’re just trying to see the city a little differently, these spots will help you experience the real charm of Venice—without fighting for elbow room or draining your wallet.
From quiet neighborhoods and hidden views to local eats and scenic strolls, I’ve got you covered. Let’s explore Venice like a savvy traveler, not a stressed-out tourist!
1. Get Lost (Intentionally) in the Backstreets
One of the best things to do in Venice is… nothing planned at all. Seriously. Toss the map and just wander. I found the cutest little bridges, sleepy canals with laundry hanging above them, and tiny squares where locals were chatting over espresso. It felt like I stepped into a quiet version of a movie set. And the best part? Completely free.
2. Watch the Sunset from Ponte dell’Accademia
Skip the packed Rialto Bridge and head here instead. I sat on the edge of this bridge with a gelato in hand and watched the sun paint the Grand Canal golden. Pure magic. It’s way less chaotic, and the view? Chef’s kiss. Don’t forget your camera (or your phone... let’s be real).
3. Pop Into Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute
This stunning church sits right at the edge of the water, and it’s weirdly peaceful despite how pretty it is. No long lines, no noise—just gorgeous architecture and an amazing view across the canal. I literally sat on the steps and people-watched for like 30 minutes with a panini. 10/10 would recommend.
4. Ride the Vaporetto Like a Local
I couldn’t justify dropping €100 (about $108) on a gondola ride (sorry, not sorry), so I hopped on the vaporetto instead—the local water bus. It’s only a few euros and takes you right down the Grand Canal. Grab a spot near the front and enjoy all the gondola-level views without the price tag. Major budget win.
5. Explore the Jewish Ghetto
Tucked away from the main tourist paths, this area is full of history, charm, and way fewer people. I ended up here after chasing the smell of fresh-baked pastries (no regrets). There’s this calm energy here—plus some of the best food I had in Venice. Totally underrated.
6. Climb the Scala Contarini del Bovolo
This one's a little hidden but so worth finding. It’s a spiral staircase tucked away in a quiet alley, and when you get to the top, you’ll be rewarded with an amazing view over the rooftops of Venice. It’s way cheaper than going up the Campanile in San Marco Square, and there are barely any crowds. I paid €8 (around $9), and it felt like a secret spot only a few people knew about.
7. Pack a Picnic for Giardini Reali
Sometimes you just need to slow down—and this little garden near St. Mark’s is perfect for that. I grabbed some goodies from a local grocery store (hello, cheap prosciutto and cheese) and had a quiet picnic under the trees. It’s peaceful, shady, and gives you a break from all the walking. Honestly, I could’ve napped there.
8. Take a Free Walking Tour (Tips-Based)
I found a “free” walking tour online (you just tip what you can at the end), and it turned out to be one of the best things I did. The guide was local, hilarious, and shared tons of fun facts and hidden gems I would’ve totally missed on my own. Plus, it helped me get my bearings early on in the trip. I tipped €10 ($11) and felt like I got way more value than some pricey tours I’ve taken elsewhere.
9. Hop Over to the Colorful Island of Burano
Okay, I know Murano is famous for glass, but Burano? Total show-stealer. It’s a little farther out, but the boat ride there is part of the fun. The houses are all painted in these bright, happy colors that feel straight out of a storybook. I went early in the morning, and it was almost empty. Just me, the rainbow houses, and the occasional cat. Bring your camera—you’ll want a hundred pics.
10. Snack on Cicchetti Like a Local
Cicchetti (basically Venetian tapas) are the way to eat on a budget. I found tiny bars tucked along canals where locals were grabbing little bites and sipping wine for a few euros. You can try a bunch of different flavors without spending much, and it’s super chill. My go-to order: anything with baccalà (creamy salted cod) and a glass of house wine—total cost? About €5–€7 ($5.40–$7.50).
11. Skip the Crowds at San Marco and Go at Night
During the day, St. Mark’s Square is a packed sea of tourists and selfie sticks. But at night? It turns into this peaceful, almost magical place. The lights reflect off the stones, there’s live music from the cafés, and it just feels… romantic. I went around 10 PM, and there were barely any people. It was one of my favorite moments of the trip.
12. Sip a Spritz in Campo Santa Margherita
If you’re going to have an Aperol spritz in Venice (and you should), do it here. Campo Santa Margherita is super laid-back, with a fun local vibe—think students, artists, and people just hanging out. I grabbed a seat outside one of the little cafés, ordered a spritz for €3.50 (about $3.80!), and just people-watched. Way more relaxed (and cheaper) than the touristy bars near St. Mark’s.
13. Cross the Rialto Bridge—Then Leave
Look, the Rialto Bridge is iconic. I get it. But it's also absolutely swarming with people at all hours. I walked across it once to say I did it, snapped a quick photo, then immediately dipped into the side streets. Just a few steps away, the crowds disappeared, and I found little shops and canal views that were way more my style. Pro tip: don’t linger—explore the area behind it instead.
14. Window Shop at Libreria Acqua Alta
This quirky little bookshop is famous on Instagram for its gondola full of books, and yes, it’s super cute—but it’s also genuinely cool to explore. There are cats lounging around, staircases made of books, and hidden corners everywhere. I didn’t buy anything, but I spent a good 30 minutes poking around and soaking in the weird, wonderful vibes. Free to browse, priceless for the experience.
15. Wander Through Dorsoduro for a Quieter Vibe
If Venice had a chill, artsy little sister, it would be Dorsoduro. This neighborhood totally stole my heart—it’s less touristy, way more relaxed, and full of charm. Think cobblestone streets, cute cafés, art galleries, and locals just going about their day. I spent a lazy afternoon here just strolling, grabbing a coffee, and soaking it all in. If the main parts of Venice start to feel too hectic, Dorsoduro is the perfect escape without actually leaving the island.
16. Grab a Cheap Coffee Standing Up at the Bar
Here’s a little money-saving trick I learned fast: in Italy, coffee is way cheaper if you drink it standing at the bar instead of sitting at a table. I’m talking like €1.50 ($1.60) for a perfect espresso. It’s quick, delicious, and such a local experience. I’d pop into a random café, order “un caffè,” stand at the bar like a true Venetian, sip it in under five minutes, and head back out to wander. Way better than paying triple just for a chair.
17. Catch the View from Fondaco dei Tedeschi Rooftop (It’s Free!)
Hidden above a fancy department store near the Rialto Bridge is one of the best views in Venice—and barely anyone knows about it. The rooftop terrace at Fondaco dei Tedeschi gives you a panoramic view over the Grand Canal and rooftops, and the best part? It’s totally free. You just need to book a time slot online ahead of time (I booked the night before, super easy). I went right before sunset and honestly, it was better than any paid viewpoint. Zero crowds, full wow factor.
18. Ride the Traghetto Like a Local (For Under €3!)
So here’s the deal: gondola rides are pricey, but there’s a secret workaround if you just want the experience of being in a gondola without the €100+ ($108) price tag. It’s called a traghetto—basically a stripped-down gondola used to ferry people across the Grand Canal. Locals use them to get from one side to the other where there aren’t bridges nearby. It costs around €2–€3 (about $2.15–$3.25), lasts a couple minutes, and yep—you’re in an actual gondola. Standing up, crammed with locals, but still. It counts.
19. Visit a Local Coop for Snacks + Souvenirs
I know, a grocery store might not sound exciting—but trust me, the Coop (it’s like Italy’s local supermarket chain) is a budget traveler’s best friend. I stopped in to grab snacks, drinks, and even a few souvenirs like pasta, cookies, and tiny bottles of limoncello for way cheaper than the tourist shops. Plus, wandering foreign grocery aisles is kind of a vibe. It’s where I stocked up on picnic goodies and got a peek into everyday Venetian life.
20. Take a Photo Stroll Early in the Morning
If you want to see Venice at its most magical—no crowds, soft golden light, and pure peace—wake up early and hit the streets around 7 AM. I know, I know… you’re on vacation. But trust me, it’s so worth it. I walked along the canals, crossed empty bridges, and even had St. Mark’s Square basically to myself (which felt unreal). Plus, it’s the best time for photos before the city fills up. Then go reward yourself with a cappuccino—because you earned it.
21. Just Sit by a Canal and Do Nothing
I know it sounds simple, but honestly, one of the best things I did in Venice was just sit. I found a quiet spot by a canal, dangled my feet over the edge, and watched boats drift by. No plan, no rush—just soaking it all in. Sometimes, the magic of Venice isn’t in the big landmarks. It’s in the still moments, the echo of footsteps in a quiet alley, the soft splash of water against the stone. Don’t feel like you always have to do something. Just be there.
Final Thoughts
Venice doesn’t have to drain your wallet or your energy. Some of my favorite memories came from the simple, quiet moments—the ones you won’t find in a guidebook. This city has a way of surprising you when you let go of the tourist checklist and explore with curiosity (and maybe a croissant in hand).
So whether you're hopping on a €2 ($2) traghetto or sipping wine in a hidden campo, I hope this list helps you see a softer, slower, and more affordable side of Venice.
Have you been to Venice or planning your trip soon? Let me know in the comments—I'd love to hear your favorite finds or what you're most excited about!