Located off the coast of Italy, the city of Venice is an all-time favorite tourist destination. The sublime beauty of this city allures many to visit time and again. So, when you go to Venice, know that you're in for a treat.
This is a romantic city filled with colorful houses, canals, and gondolas, but there's much more to do and see in Venice. Read on to know how to have a magical experience in "The Floating City". And as you're preparing for your trip, be sure to purchase travel medical insurance in case of any unexpected illnesses or injuries during your trip.
Venice Travel Medical Insurance for International Travelers – FAQs
Your health should always be your top priority, even while traveling.
Let's say you need medical care or attention while you are in Venice. In such a case, you can rely on your travel medical insurance plan to help you out.
Do I need travel medical insurance for Venice?
Travel medical insurance is not legally required to travel to Italy. However, it is required to get a Schengen Visa. If Venice is just one of your stops on a longer European vacation, you do need travel medical insurance. Having health insurance during an international vacation is still a good idea, whether it's mandatory or not.
Why buy travel medical insurance for Venice?
We have already seen that Venice poses huge health risks to travelers. Everything from mosquitoes to pollution is a source of risk.
So make the smart choice, and buy travel medical insurance. Look for benefits like coverage for emergency medical expenses, the ability to extend your duration of coverage, emergency medical evacuation, repatriation, and more.
Be prepared for worst-case scenarios. Buy travel medical insurance to protect yourself from hefty medical bills.
Things to Do for Travelers in Venice
St. Mark's Basilica
There are many architectural marvels in Venice, both Renaissance and Gothic; however, St. Mark's Basilica is by far the best and most renowned building in Venice. The magnificent and ornate details are what make this basilica so famous. The sculptures and artworks housed in the basilica go on to add cultural identity to the monument.
St. Mark's Square
Located on the Canal Grande, St. Mark's Square is home to some of the most impressive sights in Venice, including St. Mark's Basilica. Be sure to visit this square to experience the heritage of Venice in all its grandeur. Some important buildings that you shouldn't miss out on visiting include Doge's Palace, Torre dell'Orologio, and St. Mark's Campanile.
Ponte di Rialto
The Ponte di Rialto, also simply known as the Rialto Bridge, is—out of the many bridges in the canals of Italy—the most famous, and rightly so. The bridge's ornate stonework and its perfect symmetry adorn the Canale Grand. From the bridge, you can admire the buildings by the side of the canal. The gondolas and boats traversing the busy waterways of Venice is a sight to behold, as well.
Burano
Love bright colors? Then you'll love Burano. The town of Burano is so colorful that it almost looks unreal. The houses are brightly colored and look like they are straight out of an animated movie. In our opinion, experiencing Burano should definitely be on your list. The town is aesthetically pleasing and is sure to mesmerize you.
Bridge of Sighs
Apart from having a poetic name, the Bridge of Sighs is one of the most viewed structures in the city. An important historical landmark, the bridge exemplifies the rich culture of Venice. Another plus point is that the bridge is in route to St. Mark's Square. Make sure you stop by this iconic white-stone bridge.
Travel Risks for International Travelers in Venice
Mosquitoes
Venice is a city of canals, as the city is situated on the water, and there can be some risks associated with large areas of water. So, it goes without saying that Venice has a serious mosquito problem. Mosquitoes can be a huge risk for your health. Apart from being irritating and painful, mosquito bites can transmit diseases such as malaria and dengue. Stay away from the islands of Le Vignole and Lido, as they are infamous for their huge and aggressive mosquitoes.
Safety in Crowded Places
Venice attracts a lot of tourists, about 30 million per year. And all places with a lot of tourism have one thing in common: pickpockets. So, beware! Don't fall prey to these slick-fingered criminals. Here are a few ways in which you can do that:
- Avoid crowded areas.
- Buy a slash-proof purse.
- Secure your backpack with a lock.
- Invest in an RFID-blocking wallet.
Sewage
This fact will surprise and unnerve you, but it is important to know. The sewage that the city produces goes directly into the canals. The city disposes most of its wastewater into the lagoon. Long story short, the water is filthy. Tourists often experience a bad smell in the air. It's an immense health risk for tourists.
Acqua Alta (or high tide)
A city with so much water is bound to experience floods now and then. Pavements and streets in Venice often flood. Usually, Acqua Alta lasts only for 3–4 hours. But, in cases of heavy rain, floods may plague parts of the city for a good 2–3 days.
Pollution
The pollution in Venice is nothing short of atrocious. In an alarming article, the BBC wrote that Venice is "choking on its own pollution". This tells us about how severe the problem is. Pollution can be harmful to your lungs. If you have a pre-existing respiratory condition such as asthma, you might be adversely affected. Your best bet would be to carry a mask. Be kind to your lungs.
Before You Travel to Venice - Do This
Learn basic Italian phrases. Start speaking (a bit) of Italian. You don't have to master the language. Some basic phrases to help you get about in Venice will do just fine. You can start off with the very basics:
- Si (Yes)
- No (No)
- Per favore (Please)
- Grazie (Thank you)
- Prego (You're welcome)
- Mi scusi (Excuse me)
- Mi dispiace (I am sorry)
Knowing these will help you in Venice. Va bene?
Similarly, to have a better experience in Venice, carry the following along with yourself:
- A mosquito repellent
- A slash-proof purse
- An N-95 mask for the pollution
It is always better to be safe than sorry. Make sure you buy travel medical insurance before going on your trip to Venice. Don't buy the first plan you click on. Take the time to review your options, compare benefits, and select the plan that best matches your own personal needs.