How to Get from Venice Airport to the City Centre (All 6 Options Compared)

There are six ways to get from Venice Marco Polo Airport to the city centre – from a €10 bus to a €200 private water taxi – and the right choice depends entirely on your situation. This guide covers all of them honestly, including the one I use myself and the one I wouldn’t bother with.

Getting from Venice Marco Polo Airport to the city centre is genuinely more complicated than most European cities – because in Venice, roads stop at the water’s edge and cars can’t go beyond Piazzale Roma. How you cover the final stretch depends on your budget, your luggage, and how you want to arrive.

Over the years, I’ve landed in Venice multiple times, and I’ve tried most of the transport options between the airport and the city. Each comes with its own set of pros, cons, and quirks—some are quick and affordable, others slower but more scenic, and some are downright luxurious.

Whether you’re looking for the cheapest way to get from the airport to Venice, want to book a private water taxi for a bit of a splashy arrival (yes, pun intended), or just want something simple and hassle-free, this guide covers all your options.

Below, you’ll find a clear breakdown of every transport method: from buses to boats and even the options I wouldn’t recommend.

I’ve included tips for late-night arrivals, travelling with luggage, navigating Venice on foot, and how to choose the best route depending on your travel style—budget, family, solo, or luxury.

There’s also a handy comparison table up next, if you’re short on time and want the quick answer before getting into the details.

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Quick Comparison Table: How to Get From Venice Airport to the City Centre

If you’re short on time or just want a quick overview, here’s a side-by-side comparison of the main transport options from Venice Marco Polo Airport to the city centre.

Whether you’re after the cheapest option, something scenic, or you need door-to-door service with your luggage, this table covers all six options and should help you narrow it down.

Note: From Piazzale Roma, you’ll either walk or take a Vaporetto (water bus) to reach your hotel. Venice doesn’t allow cars beyond this point.

Option 1: Taking the Bus from Venice Airport to Piazzale Roma

If you’re after the cheapest and most straightforward way to get from Venice Airport to the city centre, the bus is your best bet.

It’s fast, reliable, and drops you at Piazzale Roma—the last point in Venice where land vehicles are allowed. From there, you’ll either walk or take a Vaporetto (public water bus) to reach your accommodation.

There are two main bus options: ATVO and ACTV Line 5. The names are similar, which can be a little confusing, but they’re quite different in terms of comfort, speed, and how they handle luggage.

ATVO Express Bus (Line 35) – Best for Speed & Luggage

This is the option I used most recently, and honestly, I was surprised by how smooth and efficient the whole experience was.

I walked out of the airport, bought my ticket at a machine just to the left, validated it, and was on my way to Piazzale Roma within minutes.

• Direct, non-stop service between Marco Polo Airport and Piazzale Roma
• Travel time: approx. 15–20 minutes
• Frequency: every 30 minutes (slightly less frequent early morning and late evening)
• Operating hours: from 6:00 am to 1:10 am
• Ticket price: €10 one-way, €18 return (includes luggage)
• Where to buy: ticket machines in baggage claim, arrivals hall, or at the stop (Exit D, platform 3)
• Online booking: available via GetYourGuide or the ATVO website

Don’t forget to validate your ticket before boarding—there are yellow machines at the stop. If you forget, you could be fined €52.

The buses are clean, air-conditioned, with large luggage compartments under the bus. It’s ideal if you’re carrying a full-size suitcase or just want a no-fuss arrival.

ACTV Bus (Line 5 “Aerobus”) – Best for Combo Tickets

ACTV is Venice’s public transport provider, and Line 5 connects the airport to Piazzale Roma with multiple stops along the way.

• Public bus service with a few intermediate stops
• Travel time: approx. 25–30 minutes
• Frequency: every 15 minutes from 6:40 am onwards
• First/last departures: first bus at 4:08 am, last at 1:10 am
• Ticket price: €10 one-way, €18 return
• Combo tickets available: €18 for a combined Aerobus + Vaporetto ticket
• Luggage: carried onboard in dedicated racks

This option can make a lot of sense if you’re planning to use public transport regularly during your stay. ACTV offers multi-day tourist passes that include both buses and Vaporetto water buses, which may work out more economically overall.

Even if you’re not planning on using public transport regularly, but are planning on taking the Vaporetto (Venice’s public ferry service) from Piazzale Roma to a stop nearer your accommodation, then this option is a handy one for the Aerobus + Vaporetto ticket – which means you won’t have to purchase a separate ticket for the Vaporetto.

You’ll need to validate your ticket on board using the card reader near the door. It’s a public city bus, so it’s not as comfortable as the ATVO coach—especially with luggage—but it gets the job done.

ATVO vs ACTV: Which Should You Choose?

Personally, I’d go with the ATVO bus again without hesitation, especially if you have more than just a backpack. But if you’re planning to make full use of public transport during your stay and want a combined Vaporetto ticket, the ACTV route is a solid alternative.

Option 2: Taking the Alilaguna Water Bus

If you’re looking for a scenic way to arrive in Venice—and avoid the need to transfer at Piazzale Roma—the Alilaguna Water Bus might be the option for you.

It’s not the fastest or most luxurious choice, but it does let you glide into the city by water, passing islands and landmarks along the way.

I’ve taken the Alilaguna before, on a line that dropped me in the Castello district. While the idea of arriving in Venice by boat is undeniably romantic, I’ll be honest—it’s more functional than glamorous.

The boats can feel a bit cramped, and depending on where you sit, views can be partially obscured by sunshades or not-so-clean windows. That said, there’s still something exciting about watching the skyline of Venice slowly come into view across the water.

How the Alilaguna Works

Alilaguna operates three lines from Marco Polo Airport to different parts of Venice. Which one you choose depends entirely on where you’re staying.

1. Blue Line (Linea Blu)

• Stops include: Murano, Fondamente Nove, Lido, Arsenale, San Zaccaria, San Marco, Zattere, Giudecca Stucky
• Travel time to San Marco: approx. 1 hour 20 minutes
• Frequency: hourly from 5:20 am to 8:20 am; then every 30 minutes until 9:20 pm; hourly again until 12:20 am

2. Orange Line (Linea Arancio)

• Stops include: Madonna dell’Orto, Guglie, Santa Stae, Rialto, Sant’Angelo, Ca’ Rezzonico, Santa Maria del Giglio
• Closest to Rialto and Dorsoduro areas
• Travel time to Rialto: approx. 55–60 minutes
• Frequency: every 30 minutes from 8:35 am to 9:50 pm, with one final ferry at 10:50 pm

3. Red Line (Linea Rossa)

• Seasonal service (April to October)
• Covers a similar route to the Blue Line, with stops at Murano, Lido, and San Marco Giardinetti

Where to Buy Tickets

• At the airport: arrivals hall, dockside ticket booth, or machines along the way to the dock
• Online in advance: GetYourGuide Alilaguna Transfer →
• Cost: €15 one-way / €27 return
  Includes 1 suitcase + 1 piece of hand luggage. Extra baggage costs €3 per item.

Dock Location and Boarding

The Alilaguna dock is well signposted at Marco Polo Airport. From the arrivals area, it’s about a 10-minute walk via a moving walkway and pedestrian path. If you have mobility concerns or heavy luggage, factor that in.

There’s no need to validate your ticket—just show it to the staff when boarding. Seats aren’t reserved, so if it’s busy (especially in high season), be prepared to wait or queue.

What It’s Like On Board

This is a shared public ferry, so don’t expect huge amounts of space or comfort. That said, it’s clean and well run. If you’re travelling with kids or just want to savour the experience of arriving in Venice by water, it has a certain charm—just not the luxury of a private boat.

From a practical perspective, I found the process pretty straightforward.

There was staff to guide you, a designated area for storing luggage, and clear signage at each stop. I did have to wait longer than expected, after just missing one boat and then finding the next one full—but I guess that’s to be expected when travelling to Venice in the peak summer season.

When the Alilaguna Makes Sense

• You’re staying close to one of the Alilaguna stops (e.g. San Marco, Rialto, Zattere)
• You want to avoid a transfer at Piazzale Roma
• You have time to spare and would enjoy a slow, scenic ride across the lagoon
• You’re travelling light or with manageable luggage

Option 3: Shared Water Taxi – A Semi-Private Alternative

If you love the idea of arriving in Venice by boat but aren’t quite ready to splurge on a private water taxi, a shared water taxi offers an excellent middle ground.

It’s faster and more comfortable than the Alilaguna, and it still delivers that cinematic arrival across the lagoon—just without the private price tag.

I haven’t used the shared taxi myself, but I think it’s a fantastic option for couples or small groups who want something smooth and scenic without going full luxury.

I’ll definitely be opting for this option on my next visit with my partner—I opted for the bus on my last trip as I was travelling solo and thought the romance would be lost on just me!

The boats are more spacious than the water bus, and they drop you off as close as possible to your accommodation.

How Shared Water Taxis Work

• The service operates similarly to a shuttle, gathering a small group of passengers (typically 4–6 people)
• You’ll be taken to the nearest accessible pier to your hotel—so depending on your location, it might be right by your door or a short walk away
• There’s a 10-minute walk from the airport arrivals area to the dock (the same location as the Alilaguna boats)

What to Expect

This is still a shared experience, so you’re not in control of the route or exact timing, but it’s a lot more comfortable than the larger water buses. The boats are sleek, enclosed for weather protection, and take you along narrower canals that bigger vessels can’t navigate. It’s a lovely way to see Venice for the first time.

Also, the drivers aren’t tour guides, but the experience is still memorable—you’re gliding past church domes and shuttered palazzi before many visitors have even found their bearings at the bus stop.

Is It Worth It?

I think so, especially for couples, friends, or anyone celebrating something special without going all in on a private service. At just over twice the price of the Alilaguna (and with far fewer passengers), it’s arguably the best balance of convenience, experience, and cost.

Option 4: Private Water Taxi – The Fastest and Most Scenic Way Into Venice

If budget isn’t your main concern and you’re after the most seamless, scenic, and undeniably cinematic arrival, then booking a private water taxi from Venice Airport to your hotel is the way to go.

This is the only option that delivers you straight from the airport to your hotel’s private dock—assuming it has one—or at least as close as possible.

You’ll skip transfers, dodge queues, and sail into Venice like a Bond villain (minus the chaos). It’s expensive, yes—but for many travellers, it’s well worth the splurge.

Why Choose a Private Water Taxi?

• Direct service from the airport dock to your accommodation
• No transfers or waiting for other passengers
• Comfortable, enclosed boats with space for luggage
• Ideal for early/late arrivals, special occasions, or travellers with mobility concerns

If your hotel has a private water entrance, you’ll be dropped at the door. If not, you’ll be taken to the closest accessible pier and walk the final stretch.

Pricing and Booking

• Average cost: €150–€220 per boat, depending on group size, time of day, and luggage
• For example:
  • 2 passengers + 3 bags: €150
  • 4 passengers + 5 bags: ~€155
  • 6 passengers + 8 bags: ~€190
• Capacity: Up to 6 people and 8 bags (standard size)
• Operating hours: 24/7 (supplement may apply for late-night transfers)
• Book in advance: Strongly recommended, especially for early or late arrivals
  Private Water Taxi on GetYourGuide →

Where to Board

The private water taxis depart from the same dock as the Alilaguna and shared water taxis—about a 10-minute walk from the arrivals hall. It’s all clearly signposted from the terminal, and if you’ve booked a meet-and-greet service, a representative will escort you there.

What It’s Like

This is the most peaceful and direct way to arrive in Venice. There’s no shuffling onto a crowded ferry, no hauling your bags over bus steps, and no second-guessing directions at Piazzale Roma. The boat weaves through the lagoon, narrows into the inner canals, and brings you right to the doorstep (or very close) of your hotel.

While I haven’t gotten a water taxi from the airport, I have gotten one from my accommodation to the train station, and it was positively thrilling.

For first-time visitors or special occasions, it’s going to be hard to beat the experience of watching Venice rise from the water—campaniles and domes shimmering ahead—as you glide in comfortably.

Who This Is Best For

• Families or groups travelling with lots of luggage
• First-timers who want that dramatic water arrival
• Anyone with a tight schedule or late-night flight
• Travellers staying at hotels with canal-side access

It’s not essential, of course—but it does take the edge off a potentially tiring travel day and makes that first glimpse of Venice feel like part of the trip, not just the transit.

Option 5: Taking a Regular Taxi to Piazzale Roma

Venice may be famously car-free, but that doesn’t mean you can’t take a traditional land taxi from the airport.

Taxis can drive you as far as Piazzale Roma, the city’s main transport hub and the final drop-off point for all land vehicles. From there, you’ll need to continue on foot or by Vaporetto to your accommodation.

It’s not the most romantic way to arrive—but if you’re landing late at night, feeling jet-lagged, or just want to keep things as simple as possible, a regular taxi can make a lot of sense.

Key Details

• Travel time: 15–20 minutes (traffic dependent)
• Cost: approx. €40–€50 for up to 4 people with standard luggage
• Where to find taxis: Official taxi rank just outside the arrivals area at Marco Polo Airport
• Booking: No need to book in advance, but I’d recommend it if you’re arriving during peak times or late at night

There are no Uber services in Venice, so the taxi rank or a pre-booked private car transfer are your only land-based options.

What to Expect

The journey itself is straightforward. You’ll be dropped off at Piazzale Roma, which is the gateway into Venice proper. From there, depending on where you’re staying, you’ll either:

• Walk (if your hotel is within 10–15 minutes on foot)
• Catch a Vaporetto (water bus) to your stop along the Grand Canal
• Or, in some cases, switch to a water taxi if you’ve pre-arranged one for the second leg

If you have a lot of luggage or you’re staying somewhere a bit more tucked away, keep in mind that there may still be a bit of a walk involved.

When a Land Taxi Makes Sense

• Late-night arrivals when buses and Alilaguna services may have stopped or are running less frequently
• Travelling with heavy bags and just want to get closer to your final destination quickly
• Prefer private over public transport but don’t want to pay for a water taxi

This is also a good fallback if your flight is delayed or you miss the last Alilaguna or shared boat departure.

Option 6: Train from Venice Airport to the City Centre – Why It Doesn’t Make Sense

Technically, yes—you can take a train from Marco Polo Airport into Venice. But in practice, this is the most convoluted and least efficient route, and I wouldn’t recommend it unless you have a very specific reason (like heading to Florence via Mestre).

Here’s why: there’s no train station at the airport itself.

To reach the train, you’d first need to take a bus or taxi from the airport to Mestre, the closest station on the mainland. From there, you’d board a train to Santa Lucia Station, which sits on the edge of the Grand Canal in Venice, not far from Piazzale Roma.

Unless you’re absolutely set on taking a train—or you’re heading onward to another city and Mestre makes more sense—I’d recommend skipping this route entirely.

Why This Route Falls Short

• Indirect: You’ll still need to take a bus or taxi first
• Slow: The Total time isn’t faster than taking a direct bus or boat
• Unnecessary: You end up in the same place as the other options, just with more steps

Unless you’re combining your arrival in Venice with a train journey elsewhere in Italy—say, you’re heading to Florence or Milan the same day—there’s no real benefit to taking the train from the airport.

For Reference: How It Would Work In Theory

1. Bus or taxi from Marco Polo Airport to Mestre Station (€8–€10)
2. Train from Mestre to Venezia Santa Lucia (€1.50–€3)
3. Walk or take a Vaporetto to your accommodation

In total, you’re looking at nearly the same cost and significantly more faff compared to just hopping on an ATVO bus or Alilaguna.

Getting from Piazzale Roma to Your Hotel

No matter which land-based option you choose—bus, taxi, or even a combination with the train—your journey into Venice proper will almost always end at Piazzale Roma. From there, the cars stop, the canals begin, and you’re officially in Venice.

So what happens next?

This part of the trip can catch people off guard. Even though you’re “in” Venice, you’re still not at your hotel—and unless it happens to be nearby, you’ll need to continue on foot or by Vaporetto. Depending on your arrival time and how much luggage you’re dealing with, this leg can either be a lovely walk or a bit of a challenge.

Option 1: Walking from Piazzale Roma

On one of my most recent trips, I decided to walk from Piazzale Roma to the San Marco area with a backpack and a carry-on suitcase.

I’d just landed, and I wanted the fresh air and a bit of space to reset. I also really wanted to stop at Bacareto da Lele for a quick bite (which I highly recommend, by the way—read my full list of my top recommendations for cicchetti in Venice here).

It was manageable, but there were definitely a few bridges involved, and those steps may feel steep when you’re tired or juggling bags.

At one point, I had to take a traghetto (the gondola ferry that crosses the Grand Canal) with my bags. A bit wobbly getting on, but it was the other passengers—not the gondoliers—who stuck an arm out to grab by bag.

Worth noting: they don’t seem to assist with luggage, so you’ll need to be confident carrying whatever you bring. And I definitely wouldn’t bring a larger sized check in bag on the traghetto either—I very much doubt that it would be appreciated by either the gondoliers, locals, or your fellow passengers.

If you’re travelling light, however, then I would say to enjoy the walk. It’s a lovely way to ease into the sights and sounds of Venice. But if you’re dealing with checked-sized bags or travelling solo, be prepared for a bit of effort.

Option 2: Vaporetto (Public Water Bus)

For most travellers, the Vaporetto is the most practical way to reach your accommodation. The ACTV water buses run frequently and stop at all the major areas: Rialto, San Marco, Ca’ Rezzonico, Giglio, and more.

You’ll find clearly labelled pontoons (A to G) along the waterfront at Piazzale Roma. The #1 and #2 lines are the most common routes along the Grand Canal, and staff are usually on hand to help you figure out which one you need. Just make sure you know the closest stop to your hotel—confirming this with your accommodation before arrival is a good idea.

• Ticket cost: €9.50 for a 75-minute single ride
• Combo tickets: Available if you purchased an ACTV pass earlier
• Where to buy: Ticket machines near the pontoons or online
• Validation: Tap your ticket at the reader before boarding

The boats can be busy, especially at peak times, but there’s something magical about that first Vaporetto ride down the Grand Canal—even if you’re standing elbow-to-elbow with other travellers.

What’s the Best Way to Get from Venice Airport to the City Centre? (By Travel Style)

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to getting from Marco Polo Airport to central Venice. The “best” option really depends on your priorities—budget, time, comfort, luggage, or the overall experience.

Here’s a breakdown to help you decide what’s right for your trip.

1. Budget Travellers

If you’re keeping costs down, the ATVO Express Bus is the clear winner.

• It’s reliable, comfortable, and only €10 each way
• You’ll be in Piazzale Roma in around 20 minutes
• From there, you can either walk or take a Vaporetto to your accommodation

If you want to go even cheaper, walking from Piazzale Roma is doable—especially if your hotel isn’t too far or you’re travelling light. I’ve done this myself with a carry-on and backpack, and while there were a few bridges, it was completely manageable.

2. Travelling with Kids or a Family

With little ones in tow, simplicity and comfort are key.

• The Alilaguna Water Bus is a good shout here—it’s direct, there’s space for luggage, and kids will enjoy arriving in Venice by boat
• You won’t need to transfer at Piazzale Roma, which makes everything smoother
• Do keep in mind it’s not the fastest option, so best suited for families who aren’t in a rush

If you’ve got the budget, a shared or private water taxi will minimise walking and transfers, which can be worth it with kids and bags.

3. Luxury or Special Occasions

If you’re treating yourself or arriving for a special trip, nothing beats a private water taxi.

• You’re whisked straight from the airport dock to your hotel (if it has a water entrance) or to the nearest pier
• It’s fast, private, and undeniably stylish—ideal for honeymoons, anniversaries, or if you just want the wow-factor on arrival
• I’d recommend booking this in advance, especially if you’re arriving early or late

The shared water taxi is a good compromise here too—still scenic and semi-private, but at a much lower cost.

4. Travelling with Heavy Luggage

If you’re moving around Italy and Venice is just one stop (like it was for me during a longer trip), you might have more than a carry-on.

• Alilaguna handles luggage well, with designated storage areas on board. It will also (likely) get you fairly close to your hotel without too much additional walking.
• The ATVO Bus is also a solid, great choice—your bags go underneath the coach, so you’re not trying to lift them onto a public bus or boat. Note that depending on where your accommodation is, you may need to get the Vaporetto or a water taxi onwards from this point.

Try to avoid long walks across Venice with heavy bags unless absolutely necessary. Bridges and cobblestones make even short distances feel much longer.

Getting Your Luggage to Your Hotel

I’ve arrived in Venice with a large carry-on-sized suitcase, and a backpack loaded with heavy camera equipment, and walked from Piazzale Roma – and even as someone reasonably fit, found the 2km journey to my hotel fairly exerting; I found myself sweating, despite it being a particularly chilly February day.

Venice looks compact on a map, but every route involves bridges, and hauling bags up and over them repeatedly while simultaneously trying to navigate a city with no street grid wears you down fast. Add summer heat or rain (or crowds!), and it gets worse quickly.

From Piazzale Roma, your two sensible options with heavy luggage are the Vaporetto or a water taxi. 

The Vaporetto is cheap and runs frequently along the Grand Canal – you stay on the boat, the bags stay with you, and you step off as close to your hotel as the route allows. A water taxi costs more but gets you closer to your hotel door with no waiting and no transfers. 

You can also hire a luggage porter to move your bags independently, but at that point you may as well travel with them and save the extra cost.

5. Arriving Late at Night or Very Early

This is where the more practical options shine.

• ATVO buses run until 1:10 am, so they’re usually fine for late arrivals. Taxis (cars) also run 24/7, but you’ll need to make your way onwards from Piazzale Roma once you reach the Venice island
• If you’re landing after midnight or very early in the morning, a private water taxi may be your only reliable option
• Shared water taxis and Alilaguna stop running by around 10:30 pm–12:20 am, depending on the line

For really early flights out of Venice, I’d consider staying near Piazzale Roma or booking a direct transfer with your hotel.

Tips and Common Mistakes to Avoid When Getting from Venice Airport to the City Centre

Venice is a place like no other—and while that’s part of its charm, it also means that arriving here isn’t quite like arriving in most cities.

A bit of planning goes a long way, and these tips will help you avoid common headaches, save time, and arrive feeling more settled than stressed.

1. Not Validating Your Ticket

Whether it’s a bus ticket or a Vaporetto pass, you need to validate your ticket before boarding.

• For buses (ATVO or ACTV), use the yellow machines at the stop or on board
• For Vaporetto tickets, you’ll tap them on the reader near the dock entrance

It’s not uncommon to hear of travellers fined on the spot—€52 plus the cost of a new ticket—simply because they forgot to validate. It’s an easy mistake to avoid if you’re aware of it in advance.

2. Not Pre-Booking When You Should

For some transport options, like private or shared water taxis, it really is worth booking ahead—especially if:

• You’re arriving late or early
• You’re travelling during high season
• You want a guaranteed space and a smoother experience

Booking in advance often means better rates and less stress on arrival.

3. Assuming You’ll Be Dropped at Your Hotel Door

Unless you’re taking a private water taxi, chances are you won’t be dropped right at your accommodation.

• Alilaguna and shared water taxis stop at set piers
• Buses and land taxis all stop at Piazzale Roma
• Even the Vaporetto only gets you so close—you’ll often need to walk the final 5–15 minutes

Check your hotel’s nearest transport stop in advance, and don’t rely on Google Maps walking times alone. They don’t always account for bridges or the twists and turns of Venice’s layout.

4. Not Allowing Enough Time Between Airport and City

While Venice isn’t far from the airport in terms of distance, the transfer can take longer than expected, especially by water. For example:

• Alilaguna to San Marco can take over an hour
• Shared taxis require some waiting time
• Even land buses still leave you needing to transfer or walk

Give yourself more buffer time than you think you need—especially if you have reservations, dinner plans, or onward connections that same day.

5. Overpacking for Venice

I’ve travelled through Venice with a full-size suitcase, a backpack full of heavy camera equipment and a carry-on on one trip—and while it was doable, I wouldn’t recommend it unless necessary.

The cobblestones, stairs, and bridges can be tiring, especially in the heat or rain. If you’re moving around a lot, consider packing lighter or staying near a transport hub like Rialto, San Marco, or even Piazzale Roma.

6. Getting Flustered at Piazzale Roma or the Vaporetto Stops

These places can feel chaotic, especially if you’ve just landed and are figuring things out in real time.

• Take a moment. Look at the signs. Check the boards for the right line number and direction
• Don’t rush onto the first boat—double-check it’s going to your stop
• If in doubt, ask someone. Vaporetto staff are generally helpful and used to tourists

FAQs: Getting from Marco Polo Airport to the City Centre

How much is a water taxi from Venice Airport to the city centre?

A private water taxi from Marco Polo Airport to central Venice typically costs between €150 and €220 per boat, depending on group size, time of day, and amount of luggage. Shared water taxis cost around €37 per person.

Do I need to pre-book a water taxi from Venice Airport?

Yes, especially if you’re arriving late at night, in high season, or want to avoid long waits. Shared water taxis often require coordination with other passengers, and private taxis are limited in number—pre-booking ensures a smoother experience.

What’s the cheapest way to get from Marco Polo Airport to Venice?

The ATVO Express Bus is the most affordable option at €10 one-way, with direct service to Piazzale Roma. From there, you can walk or take a Vaporetto to your accommodation.

Is Uber available from Venice Airport?

No, Uber does not operate in Venice. From Marco Polo Airport, your options are the ATVO or ACTV bus, Alilaguna water bus, shared or private water taxi, or a licensed land taxi from the official rank outside arrivals. 

There are no ride-hailing apps operating here – if you want a private transfer, either book a water taxi in advance or use the official taxi rank on arrival.

Can I walk from Piazzale Roma to my hotel?

Yes—depending on where you’re staying. If your hotel is in Santa Croce, San Polo, or near the train station, it’s likely walkable. For central Venice (San Marco, Dorsoduro, etc.), it may involve a 10–25 minute walk and several bridges. Travelling light is key if you plan to walk.

What’s the best way to get from Venice Airport to San Marco?

You have three main options:

• Alilaguna Water Bus (Blue or Orange Line): Direct to San Marco, ~1 hour 20 mins
• Private Water Taxi: Fastest and most direct, ~30–40 mins
• Bus to Piazzale Roma + Vaporetto (Line 1 or 2): Slightly more effort, but can be cost-effective

Is the Alilaguna Water Bus included in the ACTV Travel Pass?

No. Alilaguna is a separate company from ACTV. If you’ve purchased an ACTV travel card or tourist pass, it covers Vaporetti and ACTV buses, but not Alilaguna services.

Is Alilaguna wheelchair accessible?

Yes—Alilaguna boats have ramps and are accessible. However, once in Venice, not all bridges have ramps, so you’ll need to research or plan a route to your hotel that avoids steps.

Is there a direct train from Venice Airport to the city centre?

No, there is no train station at Marco Polo Airport. You would need to take a bus or taxi to Mestre, then a train to Santa Lucia Station. It’s not a recommended route unless you’re combining it with onward travel to other cities.

Now You’re In – What’s Next?

Once you’ve sorted the airport transfer, the next practical step is making sure the rest of the trip is planned with the same care. 

My Venice travel tips post covers 30+ things worth knowing before you arrive – including Vaporetto passes, what to watch out for, and how to navigate the city once you’re on the ground. 

If you haven’t yet sorted where to stay, my where to stay in Venice guide breaks down the neighbourhoods and picks the best hotels in each – worth reading alongside the transport options above, since where you stay in Venice has a direct bearing on which transfer makes most sense. 

And if you’re starting to think about what to do with your time, my Venice museums guide is a good place to start for the cultural highlights.

You can find all our related content on visiting La Serenissima below, or on our dedicated Venice content hub. If you’re incorporating more of Italy, make sure to browse our Italy destination page.