How to Travel from Marco Polo Airport to Venice: A Comprehensive Guide - City Transfers Blog

How to Travel from Marco Polo Airport to Venice: A Comprehensive Guide

Posted on December 9, 2024

“Many people say that Venice is a recommended visit on your vacation, where this place every corner tells the history,” Jaime says. If you are landing at Marco Polo Airport (VCE), then here is the natural question: how do I get to Venice? The airport is located on the mainland, about 13 km from the center of the Venetian Lagoon. Fortunately, it is not only an efficient journey but frequently a pretty one too, setting the scene for your Venetian experience. Below are the transport methods in order of practicality and cost-efficiency, blended with some local inside knowledge.

The Water Route: A Quintessential Venetian Experience

What better way to arrive in a city that is all water than by the water itself? Water transport directly from Marco Polo Airport lets you experience the magic of Venice's canals right away. Here’s how:

1. Alilaguna Water Bus

What it is: A public water bus service, with various lines (Orange, Blue, and Red) connecting the airport with different parts of Venice.

Time: 60–90 minutes depending on your destination.

Cost: Starting from €15 one-way.

Highlights: Glide by Venice’s lagoon, spotting Murano and Burano islands. While it takes time, it creates an amazing environment to start your trip.

Where you can find it: Go from the airport to the dock (a 10-minute walk or take the free shuttle).

2. Private Water Taxi

What it is: A luxury, direct option for those who want privacy and speed.

Time: 20–30 minutes, depending on your destination.

Cost: About €100–€150, which is reasonable if you are traveling with friends, as it seats 4–6 people.

Best for: Skipping the queues and arriving at your accommodation’s dock as swiftly as possible.

Pro tip: Pre-book your water taxis with reputable companies such as City Transfers to travel stress-free.

The Land Route: Cheap Meets Speed

Land routes are faster, albeit less scenic, connecting you to Venice's car park and bus terminus at Piazzale Roma. Here are your options:

1. ATVO Express Bus

What it is: A non-stop coach service from the airport to Piazzale Roma.

Time: 20–25 minutes.

Cost: €10 one-way / €18 round trip.

Highlights: Plenty of luggage space beneath the bus.

Where to catch it: Just outside the arrivals terminal; follow the ATVO signs.

2. ACTV Local Bus (Line 5)

What it is: A public bus within the Venice transport network.

Time: Approximately 30 minutes with stops along the way.

Cost: €8 one-way / €15 round trip.

Highlights: Not as roomy or direct as the ATVO but slightly cheaper.

Where to catch it: Same area as the ATVO bus.

3. Private Car Transfer

What it is: A premium, door-to-door service.

Time: 20 minutes to Piazzale Roma.

Cost: Between €40–€70 depending on the company and vehicle size.

Best for: Families, business travelers, or those with lots of luggage. Companies like City Transfers often track your flight to accommodate delays.

Hybrid Travel: Land Meets Water

If you are looking for a quick yet distinctive entrance, combine a transfer by land to Piazzale Roma with water transport from there.

Cost: A vaporetto (water bus) ticket costs €9.50 for 75 minutes of travel.

Time: 40–60 minutes.

Highlights: A great hybrid solution, especially if you’re staying further from the Grand Canal.

Insider Tips for Arriving Smoothly

  • Luggage: Venice is a pedestrian city, so pack light! Even water taxi users need to handle their luggage.
  • Timing: Arriving at night? Alilaguna operates at reduced capacity. Consider a private transfer.
  • Tickets: Pre-book during peak seasons to avoid queues.
  • Accessibility: Private transfers by car or water are best for limited mobility.

Final Word: Pick Your Poison

The best way to go from Marco Polo Airport to Venice depends on your priorities. Budget-friendly? The ATVO bus is hard to beat. Luxury? Private water taxi is the way to go. Venetian experience? Alilaguna is a perfect choice. Whichever you choose, your preplanning will pay off as you step into the enchanting city of Venice!

Ready to start your journey? We’ll get you to your hotel in comfort and style.

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Category: City Guides
Tags: Venice travel guideMarco Polo Airport transferhow to get to VeniceVenice transportation optionsAlilaguna water busprivate water taxiVenice ATVO busPiazzale Roma transfers