Eat Cheap in Venice

American tourists may find reasonably priced dining in Venice a challenging experience. Venice's reputation as a high priced city is justly deserved. Combine the traditionally high prices with a weak dollar and the battle is on. Can you stay within your means while staying pleasantly full?

Fortunately cheap eating options exist. And tasty options at that! Venice is filled with small food establishments offering takeaway foods. Appealing sandwiches generously filled with quality ingredients are priced from one to four euros. Also popular item is pizza. A large slice starts at 1.50 euros. Want a sweet to finish your meal? Venice's numerous bakeries and gelaterias deliver great taste, variety, and satisfaction all for a reasonable price.

The disadvantage to takeaway is finding a place to enjoy it. Standing in a narrow passageway balancing guide book, camera, and food while being jostled by passing crowds calls for abundant patience.

Theses are minor matters though, easily overcome by advance planning. First, don't wait until you are exhausted to buy food. Aching legs and complaining stomachs have an amazing way of scuttling all plans to eat cheap. Second, have a plastic bag with you. Your takeaway food will be handed to you on a thin napkin, hardly conducive to transport. Third, carry paper towels. That same skimpy napkin wrapped around your food is not adequate for cleaning up. Last, find a park or a quiet canal with shaded steps for sitting.

Bars and cafes are a step up from the takeaway establishments because they offer seating. And you have access to a bathroom. Public toilets cost 1.50 euros. Rather than pay for the public toilet, you may as well have a refreshment for the same price, toilet use included.

Although snacks at bars and cafes may be the same price as takeaway, sitting down will usually cost you. If the menu has two prices for each item, then you know there is a seating charge. Inquire about the charge if it's not obvious.

Americans horrified by the prospect of eating in a smoky bar will find their fears unfounded. In 2005, smoking in bars and restaurants became illegal in Italy unless the establishment provides a specially equipped, isolated room for smokers.

For budget minded travelers, the grocery stores are a godsend. Scrumptious salads, delicious breads, and tasty meats and cheeses soothe the savage tummy while pacifying the pocketbook. Buying beverages in a grocery store will result in enormous savings. Large bottles of sodas, juices, water, and wine are available at a fraction of the restaurant price. You will be charged for the grocery bag, so hang on to that bag and make it a required element on every outing.

Will you be taking any excursions out of the city? It would be prudent to take along some snacks. The island of Burano, for instance, though charming to visit, has few options for eating besides high priced tourist restaurants.

With these tips in mind, enjoy your visit to Venice. If you are prepared for the dining challenges you can eat well without spending a fortune. Buon appetito!