High tide: a unique phenomenon
The Acqua Alta in Venice will not ruin your holiday, because it is only a 2-hour event and in many cases consists of a few cm over some places in the city.
We provide you with a list of tips and advice to follow during this unique phenomenon. If you follow them, you will enjoy Venice properly, even if with high water.
What to do in case of high water
- Buy some boots. In every market or shop throughout the city, disposable boots are sold and can be purchased for just a few euros: using them you are covered on the knee and it is sufficient in 98% of cases;
- Use the platforms: in some places they can be very crowded, so please follow the line and respect the two flow routes;
- Check the tide level on the HI!TIDE app and choose carefully where to go. It is advisable to go to a place where the tide is low, especially if it exceeds 120 cm. Click here to better understand the different levels;
- Walk slowly and take your time to reach your destination;
- Comfortable walk, without heavy luggage;
Be patient, the Acqua Alta of Venice ends in just 2 hours
What NOT TO DO with high water:
- On the Platform, please DO NOT run or push people. It would only create confusion and you risk falling or injuring someone. DO NOT stop to take photos. You would block the line.
- DO NOT swim in the water: you will be fined by the local authorities
- DO NOT walk in water without shoes
- DO NOT go around the flooded area without boots
- DO NOT run where the road is flooded
- Avoid places where the water is very high (check the level on HI!TIDE!).
- DO NOT throw water at other people
High water can be a fun way to visit the city: have you ever tried to dine in a restaurant with water inside? The waiters will serve wearing Venetian boots! For Venetian citizens it is something absolutely common during the tide.
It can also be a unique opportunity to take wonderful photos of the less touristy people of Venice.
To find out the causes of high water click here.
