Create your budget. This is important for determining when you will travel and what attractions you will see.
Go to Venice during the off-season. Hotels, restaurants and attractions often offer significant discounts at this time. Early spring and fall is best. Be prepared for the weather, as Venice may be a bit chilly. Also keep in mind that in the fall, the city floods with the acqua alta.
Book a ticket on a discount airline. You don't have many cheap options for getting to Europe, but once there, affordable travel is easy. Fly into London, Amsterdam, Paris or Rome and then book a ticket to Venice on one of Europe's discount airlines, Ryanair or EasyJet. Travelers are usually able to secure roundtrip airfare to and from their final destination for under $50.
Rather than taking private water taxis in Venice, take the vaporetto, the public water bus. It may take longer to reach your destination, but you will spend far less money.
Save money by picnicking. Eating at restaurants can quickly become expensive. Try stopping at a grocery store and getting ingredients for a picnic. This is not only cost effective, but also allows you to explore Venice. Try eating in a public square you have not visited yet.
If you are a student, get an International Student Identity Card. With over 40,000 available discounts and valid in over 120 countries, it is worth getting before your trip to Venice.
