Hotels and advice for Venice

Founding member of the European Union, Italy is also a part of the Schengen Convention. Citizens of the EU and the European Economic Area enjoy free movement in Italy. Citizens of many countries outside the EU are also allowed to stay in Italy for a maximum period of 90 consecutive days. Passports must be valid at least six months after entering the country. More information about passport and visa requirements can be found on the website of the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Should you still have any doubt about visa requirements for your nationality, please get in touch with the Italian embassy in your country. A list can be found here.

Conference participants are responsible for obtaining a valid visa. However, FIAT/IFTA can provide you with an invitation letter if necessary. Should you require one please contact office@fiatifta.org as soon as possible. These letters can only be supplied to registered delegates.

In general Venice is considered to be one of the safest cities in Europe. The city’s small population contributes to this safe reputation. Violent crime is very rare while police presence is not highly visible, even in popular tourist areas such as the Piazza San Marco. However, caution and common sense should always be used by any visitor to any city. Venice is no exception. Pickpocketing does occur. It is advisable to keep your important belongings in secure pockets and bags, and be aware of your surroundings at all times, particularly in heavily crowded areas, such as the Basilica di San Marco.

It is highly unusual to be approached by "helpful" individuals offering to carry your bags, get a water taxi for you or lead you to your hotel. But be wary of this when it does happen. These people will most likely ask for money after helping you. If you don’t give them the amount they're expecting, they can be very hard to get rid of. When you would like to take a water taxi, go right to the driver, who incidentally does not expect a tip on top of his charges.

One of Venice's few ongoing crime problems is the offer of counterfeit designer bags, belts and the like by unlicensed, surreptitious street vendors. As in every city in Italy, not only sellers, but also buyers of these goods are subject to heavy fines.

From a health perspective, tap water is perfectly safe to drink, though many people prefer the taste of bottled water which is very widely available both in shops and in all restaurants and cafes. Mosquitos are a problem at certain times of the year. It is suggested that repellent be included in your toiletries. Pharmacies (‘Farmacia’) have a red or green cross above the door. A few are open on Saturday afternoons, Sundays and public holidays. Casualty and emergency departments in hospitals (‘Pronto Soccorso’) provide free emergency treatment for tourists. EU citizens with the new permanent cards can obtain a free consultation from any doctor, but should carry their European Health Insurance Card.