Etiquette & Behavior in Venice

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Etiquette & Behavior

Most churches require knees and shoulders be covered and many forbid cameras of any kind. A dress code is actively enforced at Basilica di San Marco and the Chorus group of churches, so it's wise to carry a sweater, or scarf, to wrap around your shoulders before entering a church. Do not enter a church with food, and do not drink from your water bottle while inside. Do not go in if a service is in progress. And if you have a cellular phone, turn it off before entering.

Italians who are friends greet each other with a kiss, first on the left cheek, and then on the right. When you meet a new person, shake hands.

Residents and shopkeepers are plagued by visitors who don't respect right-of-way courtesy in the narrow streets and on bridges (keep to the right). When strolling two or three abreast in a tiny calle, be aware of the local who may need to get by.

Posted around Piazza San Marco are signs detailing what the city considers polite comportment. Regardless of how hot the weather might be, shirtless men or women in the historic city, including on the Grand Canal, can be fined EUR 40. Lying down in streets or squares is prohibited, as is sitting around your picnic lunch, unless you happen to be in one of the city's parks. Swimming or even dipping feet into canals is not permitted.

Vaporetto Etiquette

The vaporetto rules forbid men with tank tops, and riders must remove backpacks. When boarding the vaporetto, wait in the entry area instead of blocking the boarding ramp. Once aboard, move away from the entrance and don't block aisles with luggage. A significant number of Venice's residents are elderly -- be considerate about yielding seats.