Authentic Venice! Biennale Season 2017

Introduction

It was my first time in 9 years visiting the seaside as well as my first time in Italy. At the Mestre train station I stayed at an inexpensive hostel one night after arriving in Milan, and then purchased a 28-euro student pass valid for 3 days for transportation by boat, train or bus.

I arrrived in central Venice via the Santa Lucia train and took a series of vaporettos once I could see the port and old buildings as well as restaurants. In Italy I am noticing so far that the sandwiches and coffee are very affordable.

Accomodations

In Venice I stayed in the San Servolo, a group of renovated monastery buildings from the 17th century. It is aerated, and quite clean. From there it is a 15-minute vaporetto ride to the San Marco-Zacaria, where one can cross the bridge to the Biennale gardens and Arsenale.

Food & Entertainment

A number of performances and exhibits went on during the 28th-31st. They included country exhibit performances such as a show of darkness for Denmark, or a historical show for Korea, Belgium, or Greece. The 3-day museum pass for students is only 20 euros.

By the Arsenale there is a Coop grocery. For dinner, you can go south toward Accademia and walk along the canals where there are gondola rides offered. Enjoy a cheap aperitivo drink by the square and try some authentic pasta dishes or budget-friendly meals. Note that most places accept major cards but some local cafes only take cash.