Question 1

What is the "Café and Restaurant Sitting Surcharge" scam in Venice?

Accepted Answer

Famous cafes on Piazza San Marco charge a large music surcharge (€6–15) for sitting while music is playing. This applies even if you sit for only a few minutes, and is technically disclosed only in small print. Check whether a music surcharge applies before sitting in any piazza cafe. Standing at the bar costs a fraction of the seated price.

Question 2

What is the "Glass of Water €10 Charge" scam in Venice?

Accepted Answer

In many tourist-facing cafes and restaurants around St Mark's and the Rialto, a glass of tap water is billed as mineral water at €5–10. Some establishments add service charges that bring a simple coffee to €15 or more. Ask for the full price list before ordering. Walk away from any establishment that refuses to show prices.

Restaurant Scams in Venice

Café and Restaurant Sitting Surcharge

Glass of Water €10 Charge

Experienced a scam here?