Retiring in Venice, Italy

Venice, the iconic city of canals, offers retirees a unique living experience in one of the world's most beautiful settings. While tourist crowds can be challenging, the city provides an unparalleled lifestyle with its rich artistic heritage, absence of cars, and strong sense of community in residential areas.

*Purchasing power compared to New York City (baseline = 100)

Pros

  • ✓ Unique canal city setting
  • ✓ Rich artistic heritage
  • ✓ No car traffic
  • ✓ Strong community feel
  • ✓ Excellent seafood
  • ✓ Close to beaches

Cons

  • × Tourist crowds
  • × High cost of living
  • × Flooding risks
  • × Limited housing options
  • × Logistical challenges

Transportation & Connectivity

Local Transportation

Walkability score: 9/10

Available public transport: Vaporetti, Water Taxis, Regional Trains, Buses (mainland)

Weather & Climate

Summer

Average temperature: 28°C / 82°F

Winter

Average temperature: 3°C / 37°F

Annual Climate Overview

Annual rainfall: 832mm

Sunny days per year: 240

Language & Communication

Language information coming soon

Visa Requirements

Required Documents

  • Valid passport
  • Proof of income (minimum €31,000/year)
  • Comprehensive health insurance
  • Clean criminal record
  • Proof of accommodation

Application Process

Apply through Italian consulate in home country, then register at local anagrafe

Timeline

Estimated processing time: 3-6 months

Healthcare System

Public Healthcare

Good public healthcare system with specialized facilities

Private Options

Several private clinics with international standards

Wait Times

2-4 weeks for non-urgent procedures

Major Hospitals

  • Ospedale SS. Giovanni e Paolo
  • Ospedale dell'Angelo
  • Villa Salus
  • Casa di Cura Policlinico San Marco

Lifestyle & Community

Expat Community

Active international community with regular cultural events

Activities

Art exhibitions Classical concerts Boat excursions Island hopping Cultural festivals Beach visits

Local Markets

  • Rialto Market
  • Mercato di Santa Marta
  • Mercato della Marittima
  • Local Fish Markets

Cultural Events

  • Venice Biennale
  • Carnival of Venice
  • Film Festival
  • Festa del Redentore

Practical Information

Monthly Costs

  • Average Groceries €450
  • Utilities €160
  • Restaurant Meal €35

Banking Options

  • UniCredit
  • Intesa Sanpaolo
  • Banco BPM
  • N26 (Digital)
  • Wise (Digital)

Internet Providers

  • TIM
  • Vodafone
  • WindTre
  • Fastweb
  • Tiscali

Popular Areas

  • Dorsoduro
  • Cannaregio
  • Santa Croce
  • Castello
  • Giudecca

Sources

Source: Numbeo Cost of Living (2024)
Source: Veneto Healthcare System (2023)
Source: Climate Data (2023)
Source: Immobiliare.it Market Report (2024)