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Local suggestions to live Venice at its best / for its best

Categoria: Life in Venice

  • Venice Christmas Guide 2024: Discover the Festive Magic

    Venice Christmas Guide 2024: Discover the Festive Magic

    Venice, the city of canals and timeless charm, transforms into a magical wonderland during the festive season. If you’re lucky enough to be spending this time of the year in Venice, here’s your Venice Christmas Guide to navigating the holiday cheer.

    Christmas Market Delights

    Head to Campo San Bartolomeo and stroll along Strada Nova to experience the vibrant Christmas market stalls. They’re brimming with unique crafts, festive treats, and the unmistakable aroma of mulled wine, Prosecco and sweets!

    Glide into Christmas

    For a unique festive experience, lace up your skates and hit the ice in Campo San Polo. It’s a picturesque setting for an ice-skating adventure, surrounded by historic buildings and the joyous atmosphere of the season.

    Ice skating park in Campo San Polo, Venezia 2024

    Fun Fair Extravaganza

    For a pure blissful experience for children, visit the Fun Fair along Riva dei 7 Martiri, stretching between Arsenale and Giardini. This lively spot is filled with colourful rides and festive fun that guarantees smiles for the whole family.

    Spectacular Sights

    Marvel at the towering Christmas tree standing proudly in front of the Doges’ Palace. Don’t miss the Murano glass chandelier under the porch at Procuratie Vecchie in St. Mark’s Square – a true masterpiece that adds a touch of Venetian elegance to the festivities.

    Dining Out on Christmas Day

    For a memorable meal out, ensure you reserve a table at one of these top picks:

    Book early to secure your festive dining experience!

    Homey Feasts

    While some of your favorite restaurants and cafes may be closed for the holidays, or you’d prefer a cosy Christmas at home, be sure to explore our recommended delicatessens well ahead of time for the finest ingredients. It’s a chance to savor the authentic flavors of Venice while embracing the festive spirit.

    Festive Shopping Woes

    Keep in mind that supermarkets and shops might have limited opening times on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Plan accordingly to avoid any last-minute festive shopping dramas.

    Garbage Collection Blues

    Venice has its own rhythm, even when it comes to garbage collection. Due to the holiday weekend, don’t expect the usual door-to-door pickup on Christmas’ Day. Instead, deliveries to the boat will be limited on Christmas Day. Usually everything is back to normal on Boxing Day. So, if you’ve got rubbish to dispose of, plan accordingly and keep the streets looking as pristine as the canals.

    …and, of course merry christmas!

  • Madonna della Salute: A venice Pilgrimage

    Madonna della Salute: A venice Pilgrimage

    Embark on a time-traveling journey through Venice’s labyrinthine streets and serene canals as we celebrate the annual tradition of Madonna della Salute Celebration: A Historical Pilgrimage in Venice. This sacred festivity, deeply rooted in the city’s history, transforms the Floating City into a tapestry of spirituality and culture.

    Historical Roots of Madonna della Salute

    Dating back to the 17th century, the origins of Madonna della Salute are intertwined with a vow made by the Venetians during the devastating plague of 1630. In gratitude for the city’s deliverance, the magnificent Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute was erected, becoming a symbol of hope and resilience.

    The Floating Bridge

    From this afternoon until Tuesday, November 21st, the temporary floating bridge stands as a modern homage to the historic journey made by the Venetians. This bridge not only facilitates the pilgrims’ path but also serves as a living testament to the enduring spirit of Venice.

    Madonna della Salute: A Historical Pilgrimage Through Venice's Waterways

    Candlelight Prayers and Spiritual Resilience

    The focal point of this celebration remains the church itself, where devotees light candles and offer prayers for the health of their families and the entire city. Madonna della Salute, with her centuries-old presence, continues to be a symbol of resilience and communal strength.

    Castradina: A Culinary Journey Through Time

    No historical journey through Venice is complete without savoring the flavors of tradition. The castradina, a dish enjoyed during this celebration, carries with it the essence of centuries past. Originally a humble shepherd’s recipe, castradina has evolved into a symbol of Venetian culinary heritage.
    On the other hand, though, it is getting milder and milder, to spouse modern tastes. Enjoy it here

    Navigating Venice’s Waterways

    As you navigate the floating city during this celebration, let the flickering candles guide your way and the aroma of castradina transport you to an era of rich cultural heritage. Join the locals in this spiritual and gastronomic journey, embracing the centuries-old customs that make Madonna della Salute a timeless and cherished occasion.

  • Experience the Regata Storica in Venice: A Spectacular Rowing Celebration with Competitors of All Ages

    Experience the Regata Storica in Venice: A Spectacular Rowing Celebration with Competitors of All Ages

     

    Introduction

    The Regata Storica is the most important Venetian rowing competition that takes place on the first weekend of September every year. This fascinating historical reenactment and sporting event has been a popular attraction for both locals and tourists since the mid-13th century. In this article, we’ll guide you through the celebration, the best spots to watch the races, and how to make the most of this unique Venetian tradition. Experience the Regata Storica in Venice!

    The Regata Storica: A Historical Parade and Rowing Competition

    The event starts with a historical parade at 3:30 PM, featuring dozens of Venetian boats adorned with traditional decorations, parading through the Canal Grande. Following the parade, the rowing races begin at 4:30 PM, showcasing the skills of the Venetian rowers in various age categories and boat types, including Maciarele Senior, Schie, Maciarele Junior, Giovanissimi, Caorline, Donne, and Gondolini. The competition involves different types of boats such as Mascarete a due remi, Pupparini a due remi, and Gondolini aka the Formula 1 of Venetian canals.

    Best Spots to Watch the Races and Floating Tribune

    To fully enjoy the Regata Storica, it’s essential to find a good spot to watch the races. The best locations are between San Marco and Arsenale, where you can avoid the crowds in the tiny streets and creeks along the Canal Grande. If you prefer a more comfortable viewing experience, you can reserve a spot on the floating tribune. To book your spot, visit the official website here.


    Important Information for Visitors

    During the Regata Storica, there is no water traffic in Canal Grande and from Bacino di San Marco (St. Mark’s Bay) down to Giardini. Additionally, unlike 40 years ago, there are no longer fireworks as part of the celebration. In case you need to learn more in matter of logistics, please get in touch with us.

  • Children in Venice: Activities, Tips & Venetian Adventures

    Venice, known for its captivating canals and rich history, is also a wonderful destination for families with children. Whether you are a local family or a tourist visiting this magical city, there are numerous activities that cater to all age groups. From nurseries and kindergartens to summer camps and renowned universities, Venice provides a diverse educational landscape for children.

    Education in Venice

    Venice takes immense pride in its academic institutions, some of which are among the top-notch in Italy and Europe. Ca’ Foscari, IUAV, and Accademia delle Belle Arti (Fine Arts) offer exceptional learning opportunities in various fields, nurturing young minds to reach their full potential. For musically inclined children, the Conservatorio di Musica provides a platform to hone their musical talents.

    Old-Fashioned Games and Venetian Traditions

    Venetian children cherish their cultural heritage by engaging in old-fashioned games that have been passed down through generations. In the picturesque squares, you’ll find children playing traditional games, and football, just as older generations did. The little ones have a delightful time splashing around the little fountains and expressing their creativity by drawing with colourful chalks.

    Even at a young age, Venetian children display an entrepreneurial spirit by setting up small temporary stalls on the ground. They sell their old toys and playbooks, showcasing the entrepreneurial nature that runs deep in the city’s heritage.

    Safety and Outdoor Fun

    While Venetians have a deep connection with water, it is essential to note that children do not swim or dive into the canals anymore. The city has changed, and the safety of children is a top priority.

    Rowing in Venice

    Rowing in venice

    It can be fun and active experience rowing in Venice with a kayak or like a gondolier learning voga alla veneta with this no-profit association.

    Instead, families can explore the lovely parks scattered across Venice, such as Villa Groggia, Giardini Reali, Giardini della Biennale, and S. Elena. These green havens offer a safe space for children to play and enjoy the outdoors.

    Tips for a Memorable Family Trip

    • Plan Ahead: Research family-friendly activities and attractions in Venice to make the most of your trip.
    • Explore with Curiosity: Encourage your children to ask questions and learn about the city’s history and culture. Institutions as Museo di Storia Naturale (Natural History Museum) and Museo Storico Navale (History Navy Museum) are well appreciated by young curious minds.
    • Stay Hydrated: Carry water bottles, especially during the warmer months, to keep everyone hydrated while exploring. Venice has one of the best Italian tap water and there are loads of little safe fountains around town.
    • Comfortable Footwear: With numerous cobblestone streets and bridges, wearing comfortable footwear is essential for a hassle-free exploration.
    • Gelato: Moreover, while exploring Venice, don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in the city’s famous Gelato! Treat your taste buds to the creamy and flavorful delights of authentic Italian gelato. For more on this delicious experience, check out our post about the Best Gelato Spots in Venice!
  • The Redentore festival in Venice

    The Redentore festival in Venice

    Experience the Magic of Redentore Festival in Venice: Fireworks, Traditions, and Delights

    The Redentore festival in Venice is a vibrant and enchanting celebration that takes place on the 3rd weekend of July every year. This grand event combines stunning fireworks, cultural traditions, and delectable culinary delights, attracting visitors from all over the world. Join us as we delve into the magic of the Redentore festival, explore the best spots to enjoy the festivities, and savor the traditional flavors that define this unique occasion.

    Fireworks Extravaganza: Saturday at 11:30PM

    The highlight of the Redentore festival is undoubtedly the mesmerizing fireworks display. Taking place on Saturday night at precisely 11:30PM, the skies above Venice come alive with a symphony of colors and lights. It’s a truly unforgettable experience that you wouldn’t want to miss.

    Best Spots to Catch the Spectacle

    For the best views of the fireworks, head to Giudecca, San Giorgio Maggiore, Punta Dogana, or the area between San Marco and Arsenale. These strategic locations provide panoramic vistas of the city and offer a front-row seat to the spectacle unfolding in the night sky. Remember, arriving early will ensure you secure a prime spot to witness the dazzling display.

    Reserving Your Spot on the Sea Front

    To guarantee an optimal viewing location, it’s advisable to reserve a spot on the sea front in advance. In the last few years, it is necessary to reserve a spot online for the most central areas, allowing you to secure your place without any hassle. It can be done for free on the dedicated official Municipality of Venice website. By booking early, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that you’ll have an unobstructed view of the fireworks as they illuminate the Venetian skyline.

    Exploring Alternative Viewing Options

    If reserving a spot on the sea front doesn’t suit your preferences, you can also enjoy the festivities from other locations. Consider taking a leisurely stroll down to Giardini, where you can find a peaceful setting to immerse yourself in the festival ambiance. Alternatively, hop on a boat and head to Lido, offering a different perspective of the fireworks extravaganza from the water. Don’t forget, having a friend with a boat can make for an unforgettable experience, even if it means navigating the traffic on the bay.

    Delicious Delicacies: Traditional Redentore Foods

    The Redentore festival is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for the taste buds. Indulge in a range of traditional dishes that are synonymous with this cultural celebration. Here are three must-try treats:

    1. Sarde in Saor: This delectable Venetian specialty features marinated sardines combined with onions, pine nuts, raisins, vinegar, and olive oil. The sweet and sour flavors mingle to create a harmonious taste that reflects the region’s culinary heritage.
    2. Bovoetti: These delectable treats are small sea snails that are a popular delicacy during the Redentore festival. Cooked to perfection and seasoned with a blend of aromatic herbs and spices, bovoetti offer a unique and savory taste that seafood lovers will appreciate. Their tender texture and distinct flavor make them a must-try dish for visitors looking to indulge in the culinary delights of Venice during the festival.
    3. Bigoli in Salsa: A beloved pasta dish, bigoli in salsa showcases thick, whole-wheat spaghetti accompanied by a savory sauce made from onions, salt-cured fish, and olive oil. The simplicity of the ingredients belies the rich and flavorful experience this dish provides.

    You may either decide to enjoy these food of tradition comfortably at the restaurant (here our fav ones!) or shop at a local delicatessen and have a picnic!

    Are you craving the delicious flavors of Venice? Look no further! Our curated list of the best deli shops in Venice will satisfy your taste buds and leave you wanting more. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or ingredients to create your own culinary masterpiece at home, we've got you covered.

    Deli shop we love

    Taste!
    Locals osterie in Venice

    Traditional osterie

    Enjoy!

    Floating Boats Bridge and Candle Lighting Tradition

    A significant aspect of the Redentore festival is the floating boats bridge that connects Santo Spirito to the Redentore church. This temporary bridge, made of interconnected boats, creates a unique pathway for festival-goers to traverse. On Sunday, amidst a joyous atmosphere, locals and visitors alike gather to participate in a cherished tradition.

    Punta della Dogana

    The spiritual side of the festival

    This tradition of walking through the floating boats bridge and illuminating candles in the Redentore church adds a profound spiritual dimension to the festival, uniting people in reflection and devotion.

    As the sun sets and dusk embraces the city, people cross the floating bridge to reach the Redentore church. Once inside, they light up candles as a symbolic gesture of gratitude and prayer. The soft glow of countless flickering candles creates an ethereal ambiance, infusing the church with a sense of serenity and spirituality.

  • The Ultimate Gelato Experience in Venice

    The Ultimate Gelato Experience in Venice

    You can’t go wrong with gelato if:

    • you are looking for a refreshing and delicious treat
    • you are hot
    • you are in Italy
    • you are breathing
    • [add any other excuse]

    In case you come from the moon and you have no idea what’s what, Gelato is a frozen creamy dessert made with milk, cream, sugar and various flavours. It is similar to ice cream, but with less air and fat, which makes it denser and smoother. This is one of the main differences between gelato vs ice cream. Be ready to the ultimate Gelato experience in Venice.

    Where does gelato come from?

    Gelato has a long and rich history that dates back to ancient times (blablabla). Some of the earliest ancestors of gelato can be traced to China (really?), where rice pudding was frozen with snow (nuts!) and to Persia, where grape juice was poured over snow (interesting!). In the Middle Ages, Arabs introduced sorbet, a frozen mixture of fruit juice and sugar, to Europe.

    The modern gelato was born in Italy, where it was perfected by various chefs and artisans over the centuries. One of the most famous gelato makers was Bernardo Buontalenti, who created a recipe with milk, egg yolks and honey for the Medici family in Florence in the 16th century. Another was Francesco Procopio dei Coltelli, who opened the first gelato shop in Paris in 1686. If you want to learn how to make gelato at home, you can follow some of their recipes or use a gelato maker. It will be never good as in the following places, though. Get over it.

    What are the flavors and benefits of gelato?

    Today, gelato is enjoyed all over the world and comes in countless flavors and varieties. Some of the most popular flavours are chocolate, vanilla, pistacchio, hazelnut, strawberry and lemon. These are some of the best gelato flavours that you can find in any gelateria or supermarket. Gelato can also be combined with fresh fruits, nuts, cookies, cakes or syrups for extra indulgence. Nothing compared to the German Eiscafes. That’s too much. Some flavours should not be tried for decency. On the other hand, basil was nice.

    Gelato is not only tasty, but also healthy (😆). It contains less calories and fat than ice cream and more natural ingredients. It is also rich in protein, calcium and vitamins. Gelato can be eaten as a dessert or as a snack at any time of the day, but it can be also the alternative for lunch.

    Where can you find The Ultimate Gelato Experience in Venice?

    If you want to experience the authentic Italian gelato, you don’t have to travel far. You can find some of the best gelaterias right here in Venice. Here are some of the places where you can enjoy a scoop or two (hundreds) of this frozen delight:

    Gelateria Gallonetto

    • This family-run gelateria has been making gelato since 1935 using traditional methods and natural ingredients. You can choose from over 40 flavours (on rotation) including classics like crema and nocciola, as well as seasonal specialties like chestnut and fig

    Gelateria SuSo

    • This modern and cozy gelateria offers artisanal gelato made with organic milk and fresh fruits. You can find flavors like tiramisu, yogurt and mango, as well as vegan and gluten-free options.

    Bacaro del Gelato

    • Bacaro del Gelato: This small and charming gelateria offers a wide selection of flavors made with high-quality ingredients and no artificial additives. You can find flavors like pistachio di Bronte, caramelized figs and ricotta cheese cake.

    Gelateria Nico

    • This historic gelateria has been serving gelato since 1937 and is famous for its gianduiotto, a chocolate and hazelnut gelato bar dipped in whipped cream. You can also try other flavors like zabaione, amarena and torroncino.
    Find them on the map

  • How to avoid touristic traps in Venice

    While our beloved city may not be top of mind when it comes to Italian food destinations, let me tell you a little secret: you can still enjoy some of the most memorable meals of your life right here! Don’t believe us? Just read on and discover how to avoid touristic traps in Venice.

    The multilingual menu: Lost in Translation

    When you’re in the heat of cooking and serving up a storm, the last thing you have time for is re-write your menu in several languages. While it may seem like a good idea to cater to tourists, it can quickly become a headache for busy restaurant staff. Keep it simple by offering menus in the local language and one other widely spoken language. Italian and English and let’s hope that every customer who walks through the door one of. Keep it simple, keep it local, and keep your sanity intact.

    Laminated menus: Stale Choices

    If your menu is laminated, it’s probably been there longer than the furniture. Who knows if those ingredients are fresh or if they’ve been sitting in the pantry since last summer? Printed menus on high-quality paper that can be easily replaced or updated. This will show you that they care about freshness and variety. Keep it fresh, keep it seasonal, and keep your customers coming back for more.

    Menu photos: Picture this – Not!

    A picture may be worth a thousand words, but when it comes to menus, it’s better to let the words do the talking. Photos can be deceiving, and they take away from the experience of imagining or remembering what the dish will look and taste like. Keep it classy, keep it simple, and let your menu speak for itself.

    The guy outside: Beware of Sharks

    When you’re walking down the street and someone tries to lure you into a restaurant, it’s like swimming with sharks. They’re just trying to catch their next meal ticket and avoid you to check the online reviews. Be polite but firm, trust your instincts, and choose a restaurant based on your own research and preferences.

    No cover charge: The Catch-22 of Italian Cuisine

    If you don’t see “coperto” on your bill in Italy, it’s like finding a unicorn. When it comes to cover charges, it’s best to be transparent. It’s a small charge per person, and it’s totally normal in the Italian food culture. If you advertise that you don’t have it, it will only make you appear dishonest to locals who are familiar with this practice. Keep it honest, keep it transparent, and keep your customers happy.

    Service charge: To Tip or Not to Tip?

    If your service charge is already included in the bill, it can feel like you’re being forced to tip. But tipping should be a voluntary act of gratitude, not a mandatory fee. Keep it fair, keep it honest, and let your customers decide how much to show their appreciation.

    Lastly, regional cuisine should be respected and celebrated.


    Don’t try to pass off a pizza or carbonara as a local delicacy in Venice or any other region. Keep it authentic, delicious, and true to the local culinary traditions.

    Set menus: are they really worth it?

    Unless you’re dining at a fancy restaurant and trying to save a buck by opting for a tasting menu, be wary of the set menu. It may seem like a good deal, but it could end up being a bloody trap. One of our guests recently found themselves paying €10 for a bottle of water because it wasn’t included in the bundle. Don’t fall into the set menu trap and end up with a wallet that’s lighter than your stomach.

    Too easy to find: too hard to impress

    When the location is top-notch, millions of tourists will walk on your door step organically. When you have tables along a quiet canal, along a main busy street or in a world-wide famous landmark, you don’t bother finding a right balance between fair prices and quality. You serve rubbish for a fist of peanuts or you go sky-high. No, thank you.

    By avoiding these common practices, you may increase the chances to enjoy a truly authentic dining experience and avoid touristic traps in Venice. For more local recomandations, please visit our favourites dinner restaurants and lunch places.

  • Rubbish & Recycling

    Rubbish & Recycling

    Until a couple of years ago we could leave our garbage bags on the doorstep and the dustmen would collect them. However, this was the state of every single spot of town in the mornings.

    Littering in Venice

    Seagulls and rats were absolutely happy about this. They had fresh food leftovers every night. A real party for them, a pure hygienic nightmare for us. We could not cope with it.

    Nowadays we still do the door-to-door collection. However the rubbish bag and the recycling bag must be either handed over to the dustmen or brought to the boat.

    In the morning you will hear the doorbell ringing. Often a loud voice will shout outside:

    ”Spazzinooo!” (“Dustmen!”)

    the dustmen

    If you have a smelly garbage bag (e.g. because of nappies or fruit or fish leftovers), a full one or it’s check out day, that’s the call.

    Handing over the garbage and the recycling is main thing we ask you on check-out day. It is crucial as this service ends before checkout time.

    How does it work

    They will come by between 8:30 am and 10:30 am. In case you had out before they come, you may hand it directly to them on the streets or by the boat. Yes, the trash-boat. In your hometown you have trash trucks, haven’t you? We got trash-boats. On the map in the official flyer (here below) you can see which one is the closest to you.

    Garbage collection mapDownload

    When and what time

    Every morning from Monday to Saturday they will collect the general waste. On Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays they will collect paper. On Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays glass + plastic + tins. No collection on Sundays.

    Any type of bag is good to go. Shopping bags, supermarket bags, plastic bags, whatever. Colours do not matter. The content is important. 

    Be careful: not recycling correctly and littering (also leaving it on the doorstep or using public bins is considered littering) are subject to fines (from €167). 

    Thank you for your cooperation.
  • We are the Venice Neighbours – Concierge Service in Venice

    We are the Venice Neighbours – Concierge Service in Venice

    The Venice Neighbours is a concierge service for short-term rentals in Venice, Italy. Founded by a group of passionate locals, the organisation aims to promote a sense of community and belonging among the visitors and the residents of Venice. We offer a range of services to make guests feel at home, such as luggage deposit, private transfer, welcome treats, and equipment for little guests.

    In addition to our concierge services, The Venice Neighbours also works to address important issues facing the community. We advocate for sustainable development and preservation of the city’s historic landmarks and natural resources. The organization also provides resources and support for local businesses and entrepreneurs.

    The Venice Neighbours is more than just a service provider, we are a friendly and helpful team that wants to share their love and knowledge of Venice with visitors. We provide tips and suggestions for exploring the Venice Lagoon and its islands, as well as local events and attractions. The group’s website provides a wealth of information about their various initiatives and events.

    We are a diverse and inclusive organisation that welcomes all members of the community. We believe that by working together, residents and visitors can create a vibrant and thriving community that benefits everyone.

    Services for Guests

    Venice is a city like no other, with its unique charm and complex logistics. Even residents can find it challenging at times. As your go-to resource, The Venice Neighbours is here to help you navigate the city’s intricacies and make the most of your visit. With our insider knowledge and expertise, we can guide you through the overwhelming eatery options and provide logistical support for your transfers and travel. Let us help you experience the most incredible city in the world.

    Meet & Greet, the keys’ handover
    Baggage drop

    Explore Venice

    Understand Venice

    Live Venice

    Services for HoSts & PM

    Whether you’re an independent host or a property manager, running a vacation rental can be a challenging task. That’s where we come in. Our team at The Venice Neighbours offers a range of services to help you manage your property on the ground, including housekeeping, minor maintenance, and guest assistance. With our support, you can focus on providing a top-notch guest experience while we take care of the day-to-day operations. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you streamline your vacation rental management.

    Rubbish & Recycling In Venice - Serve una mano

    Cleaning service & Small Maintenance

    Meet & Greet – the keys’ handover

    Equipment for the little ones

  • “Acqua alta”, the flooding of Venice

    “Acqua alta”, the flooding of Venice

    Heard on the news that Venice was flooded and now you are concerned of the city’s situation and wonder if it worth visiting it? Let us tell you something. Venice is on sea side. Actually it’s in the sea. Not like Atlantis, but almost. Venice floats. “Acqua alta”, the flooding of Venice. Media love to scream it every year first time that high tides flood the city. Venetians do to cope with the high waters since ever, – even though climate change is making things worse. And you can still enjoy the city during acqua alta.

    What is acqua alta

    When the tide rises, some parts of Venice get flooded. Higher is the tide, more surface of Venice gets flooded. So, when the tide grows much due to weather condition, south-east winds and “sessa” (natural returning waves of the Adriatic Sea), we get the phenomena called “Acqua Alta” (high water).

    It’s a pain for most of residents who live on low ground floor, work in a ground floor shop or have a little storage because it means your place can get flooded. That’s what media usually show and scream.

    what media forget to say

    It’s a tide: as everywhere on the planet, the tide usually raises for few hours (3 to 6 hours) and goes down taking more or less the same time. So in half a day at worst Venice is walkable again. And all of us residents are busy mopping floors.

    St. Mark’s Square is often flooded: a bit, but it happens often. Why? I suppose all the monumental buildings are heavy and soaked the pavement more than other areas. So there the tide start giving problems when it’s 85 cm.

    Water-pumps & “tubs”: if renovated recently, most of apartments and shops have installed system of self protection from floodings. Mostly, door water barriers, water pumps and the reinforced concrete tub under the floor and side walls to prevent the water filters in. Otherwise, they are lifted and the floors are one or two steps higher than the street level.

    Walkways & wellies: even during the peak hours of a tide, around town there are walkways where you can walk on. Otherwise a pair of wellies can keep your feet dry.

    It happens for decades: it’s not a big deal. We live here no matter what. True is that the global warming made this phenomena happening more often and worse. Another good reason to be concerned about environment.

    Measurements. We measure the water on the sea level, not starting from the pavement. So if it forecasted 105cm, do not expect a meter of water in the street. For example, St. Mark’s sq goes under at 85cm, therefore you can expect 20cm of water on the pavement (105 cm – 85 cm = 20 cm).

    Sound alarm. Few hours before the peak you can hear a loud city sound alarm. More high pitched is, higher is the forecast.

    Mose. It took 13 years to realise this massive project costed 7 billions of euro. It’s a system of sinked waterbarriers where lagoon is joined with the open sea that come to float when the tide is expected over 120cm. It has been set in place the first time on Oct.3rd, 2020. Almost a year too late for saving us from the 2nd highest flooding in the history (November 12th, 2019 – 187 cm).

    Acqua alta the flooding of Venice. Photo of our storage the morning after November 12th, 2019.
    Our storage the morning after. The water raised so much that the water barrier and the “tub” have been high enough.

    Lastly, among residents it’s a topic for chit chat (“Got issues with the high tide last time?” Is the new local “What do you do at NYE?”) and for tourists it’s more something to have a laugh at then a reason to worry for.