Solo to Venice

Emily: you don't need to worry about speaking Italian in a major Italian cities such as Venice, it will not be a problem. Suggest you get a phrasebook and learn a few phrases, but more than that is not "required."

Don't worry. Venice is a very safe city, to begin with. It has welcomed tourists from all over the world for centuries so you won't need more than the basic courtesies in Italian (and using them opens more doors for you than you might think).

Research your hotel options soon and reserve once you've settled on a favorite. Tripadvisor is a good site to get reviews from previous guests.

Once you're there, just stroll the neighborhoods to find places to eat and drink where you're comfortable. It's easy to meet fellow tourists on the vaporetto or an evening opening at the Peggy Guggenheim. It's a little harder to meet Venetians but one way, if you're comfortable, is to stop into the many cichetti bars for a small glass of wine and a snack.

You will LOVE Venice. I went with 3 other ladies (relatives) but I wanted to see more than they did, so we parted and met up later. I had a lot of fun exploring on my own and never had a problem with the language. It is a fascinating place.

Just have to agree with what the others have said. I went to Venice alone last summer (at 25) and it was just wonderful - there was actually something kind of magical about being there alone, seeing what I'd find at each corner. Language is not a big deal. Learn a few basic words and you will be fine - they appreciate that immensely. I actually found that waitstaff in restaurants were particularly kind to me, I'm guessing because I was alone but I don't really know. Anyway, your friends may think you're crazy, but I say props to you for doing it and for accomplishing a dream, and you'll be the last one laughing because you're going to have a great time and your friends will be jealous that they didn't come :) My only recommendations are just to get out there with a good map and get lost and let Venice suck you in! Get off the beaten track, explore the quiet "localsy" parts, the alleys may seem dark, empty, and scary but they're not - it's part of the charm. Just have a great time!!

I am going to Venice in 2 weeks. I'm 31, going solo too and this is my first trip to Italy. I've been reading the Rick Steves phrasebook lately, just to learn how to tell time, count money, among other things. I'm gettin a lil nervous the closer I get to departure day. Hopefully whatever Italian I retain will be acceptable for the locals.

Emily, here are some thoughts.

First, you are going to have an awesome time. I would highly encourage you to do this.

Second, be smart. Some Italian men (especially ones in their teens, 20's and early 30's) tend to treat women in ways that would get them sued in the US. If your gut is telling you that you're in a bad situation, then listen to your gut.

Third, many Venetians speak German better than English. But most of the time their English is fine.

Fourth, I know Rick Steves says that it's ok to get lost because you're on an island and can't get off without a boat. But if you're by yourself, be a little more wary of getting off the beaten path. If you are going to try to get lost, do so in the middle of the day and try to stay near the St. Mark's and Rialto areas.

Fifth, (and I can't say this enough) have an awesome time!

Venice is awesome - and I agree probably one of the best places to get lost durring the day on a nice sunny afternoon. After the big tourist areas - go for a hike in the residential areas (if youre worried about some areas - ask your hotel if there is anyplace to avoid -but id think its safe in day anyplace when local yokels are out doing their daily chores!) Also - learn a few common phrases, food items, and numbers to be bare bones conversant with the older local residents you meet in the residentials! Sit on the bench and chat about their cat! Do your reserach and get a great map and have fun! In the end all roads/paths seem to lead right back to Piazza S.Marco so dont worry. Oh - and avoid restaurants with English and Japanese menus if you can unless you need to practice your english!

Hi Emily,
Venice is wonderful and you're going at a good time of year- before it gets hot and overcrowded.
Like everyone else here has said, you'll have a fabulous time, probably all the better for being alone!
Have a great time!

Emily you will be fine. I was in Venice last year by myself and absolutely loved it and never felt unsafe. Get a good map - I bought one before I got there and was glad I did - the hotel ones usually aren't that detailed. Just wander the streets and use your common sense. At night I tended to stick to the main tourist areas where there were lots of people and felt quite safe. During the day I explored some of the smaller laneways and streets.

I did a walking tour on my first day which I found interesting and helpful to get my bearings.

Treat yourself to a coffee or glass of wine at Cafe Florian in St Marcos Square. Go late afternoon when they have the four piece band. Don't worry about being alone. Same with Harry's Bar for a bellini if you like the thought of drinking in Hemmingways bar. Certainly won't be the best you have had but will probably be the most expensive.

You will have a great time. Relax and enjoy.

I went on a Rick Steves tour to Venice a few years ago and it was great. My dream is to go back there again by myself. I think you have chosen a perfect place to do by yourself. I would not be nervous, you will love it -- and are definitely not crazy! I recommend getting some Italian language CDs and listening to them as often as you can to learn the basic phrases, but virtually everyone will speak English also.

GO FOR IT !!!! I'm 33 and felt totally safe. Have your guidebook and walk like you know what your doing girl! Have ATTITIUDE! they'll leave you'll alone and you will have a blast. And when you need help, I bet you have a few very helpful locals :)

Hi Emily:
Good for you to be brave!!
I wish I was your age again!
I'm planning on going to Italy alone in the Fall, (I'm a young 53);and looking forward to it too!!!
Get the receptionist in your hotel to circle where you are staying on your map; or: take a few business cards from Reception; and you will always be able to find your way "home" again.
Do learn some Italian, I love the Rick Steves small phrasebooks; you will be glad you did.
And wear your moneybelt at all times!!!
Venice is lovely, and there's lots to do.

Venice is safe. take your guide books so you know what to do and where to go. plan at least the first day entirely to help you with your nerves. Stop by a church if you feel uneasy and make it your place to relax and gather thoughts. If you have a good pensionne as recom in Ricks books you will be fine. Enjoy. the unknown is always alittle scary but Venice is so beautiful you will be awe struck.