Bad news for those who wanted to include Venice in the list of cities for a cruise: Italian authorities are planning to close the Venice Lagoon to cruise ships, offering companies an alternative route.
In 2015, huge cruise ships will be banned from entering the historic center of the Venice Lagoon due to a new bill by Italian authorities who are seeking to tackle the problem of water pollution at a national level.
Not long ago, a plan for an alternative route bypassing the center of Venice, submitted to parliament for consideration, has already caused discontent among travel companies whose ships this moment pass just a kilometer from the main one (San Marco), from where simply stunning views of one of the most beautiful cities in Italy open.
Last year, representatives of Venice's main port proposed banning ships with a capacity of more than 96,000 tons from entering the lagoon, but their plan was never adopted. Not long ago, many celebrities signed a petition calling for the city center on the water to be excluded from cruise ship itineraries. According to the new bill, from 2015 huge cruise ships will no longer be visible in the Piazza San Marco basin and the Giudecca canal. The innovation will affect both large vessels and small-sized liners.
Several Italian ministers, including the country's transport chief, Maurizio Lupi, spoke in support of the new plan during a meeting with representatives of the Venetian ports, as well as local authorities on Friday.
“It seems to me that our decision to remove liners from the canals of Venice is an excellent and thoughtful step that will help preserve cultural heritage city, and will also have a beneficial effect on its economy,” said Lupi. As an alternative route, the authorities suggested that ships proceed to the Contorta-Sant’Angelo canal. During the meeting, the Italian Minister of Transport also demanded that local authorities provide detailed forecast actions of the new plan.
Meanwhile, the organization “No Big Ships” condemned the bill, explaining that it does not imply a complete exclusion of all liners from the center of Venice, and not just the largest of them.
It is worth noting that Venice currently does not have a mayor. The water town's previous head, Giorgio Orsoni, was forced to resign after he became embroiled in a corruption scandal.
For the first time, the residents of Venice were seriously concerned about the state of environment their city in January 2012, a month after it crashed off the coast of the Italian island of Giglio. In addition to the risk of collision with other liners, large ships are also unwelcome guests in the Venice Lagoon due to numerous emissions of waste fuel and vibrations, which have an extremely negative impact on the medieval buildings of the city.
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Venice's cruise port is located a short walk from Piazzale Roma, the main transport gateway to the city's historic centre.
Venice cruise port map
How to get from Marco Polo Airport to Venice Cruise Port
If you're flying into Marco Polo Airport, make sure you take a seat on the right side of the plane, preferably near the window, for an overhead view of the stunningly beautiful Venice and cruise port.
The terminal at Marco Polo Airport is too small for the number of passengers it usually handles, this becomes especially noticeable when you are waiting for a return flight. There is real pandemonium in the departure area. We advise you to simply not worry and remain calm. Don't arrive too early; two to three hours before the plane departs is more than enough: you won't be able to put your bags in your luggage earlier anyway.
If you have a lot of free time after arriving in Venice, board the Alilaguna blu line for 15 euros and enjoy a 90-minute cruise around Venice. At the end of the journey, the boat will stop right next to the cruise ships in the port of Venice.
Taxi ride - more quick way, takes 15-20 minutes and costs 30-40 euros.
You can also get there by ATVO bus or ACTV Line 5 bus, travel time is approximately 20 minutes, cost from 8 euros one way. Buses arrive at Piazzale Roma, from where you can ride or walk to the cruise terminal
Alilaguna blu line route map(click to enlarge)
How to get from Treviso airport to Venice cruise port
Bus passengers traveling from Treviso Airport to the city are served by the local company ATVO, according to the landing and departure schedule at Treviso Airport. You can check the bus schedule on the website. The cost of the trip is from 10 euros one way. In Treviso, you can buy tickets in the airport arrivals halls, stamp them in a special machine, and then simply go outside to the waiting bus. In Venice, you can purchase tickets from the ATVO office located in Piazzale Roma (downstairs under the car park).
Attention! You will not be able to buy tickets from the driver on the bus.
The journey takes between 35 and 70 minutes (depending on the route and traffic) and in most cases this efficient and fast service exceeds all expectations. Most buses stop in Mestre (the main industrial zone Venice), and then go further to Piazzale Roma, the largest traffic intersection in Venice. If you need to get off earlier rather than wait for the final station, immediately check with the driver whether he will stop at the desired location (buses from the airport to Piazzale Roma often take different routes).
The return bus departs from Piazzale Roma, platform D2 (see schedule). Most ATVO buses are equipped with air conditioning, curtains to protect against the hot sun, seat belts and a luggage rack. We advise you to choose a seat by the window, as the route usually passes by huge old villas in the areas between Treviso and Venice - a rather enchanting sight. How to get from Piazzale Roma to
How to get from Venice train station to the cruise port
Arrive at the main railway station St. Lucia and you can get to the terminals like this:
How to get from Mestre train station to Venice cruise port
From Mestre train station (10 kilometers from the center of Venice) you can get to the port of Venice as follows:
- catch a taxi (about 20 minutes);
- by public bus going to Piazzale Roma (which is located near the port).
Please note: some cruise lines, in order to sell a transfer, will try to convince you that catching a taxi is almost impossible. In general, a taxi for two or more people is cheaper than a transfer from a cruise company.
Monorail (original name People Mover) is a fast and convenient type of communication between 3 stations:
- Piazzale Roma - the main transport hub of the old city
- Venice Cruise Terminal
- The Tronchetto open-air car park can accommodate thousands of cars and is the point of arrival for most tourist buses.
The monorail is an automatic cable-operated train similar to a cable car. The length of the path is 853 meters. It is very easy to use, there is only one route, and the fare is 1.5 euros, regardless of which station you get off at. Before entering the monorail station, look for ticket machines. You can pay with coins, small banknotes (up to 20 euros) and by card. After purchasing a ticket, go to the checkpoint, touch the ticket to the barcode scanner, after which the turnstile will automatically open.
The journey between Piazzale Roma and Tronchetto takes just over three minutes, including a stop at the cruise terminal.
Monorail between Piazzale Roma and Venice cruise port
Parking at the port of Venice
The car park is a short walk from the terminals and has over 2,000 spaces. The parking lot is guarded and with video surveillance. The cost of parking a passenger car for 2015 is 95 euros for a week-long cruise. Seats can be reserved online.
Luggage storage in the port of Venice
In Terminal 103 you can store your luggage for a few hours in a luggage room.
How to get to the center of Venice from cruise ships
Most the right way get acquainted with the sights in Venice: when leaving the cruise terminal, go to the monorail and buy a ticket for 1.5 euros, take it to Piazzale Roma, find the ACTV terminals and in one of them buy a ticket for any of the vaporetto route ships (they make stops in Venice , Murano, Burano, Lido and Punta Sabbioni).
There are 2 types of ACTV tickets suitable for cruisers:
- 16.00 € - card for 12 hours;
- 18.00 € - card for 24 hours;
Vaporetto route ships
Shopping and cuisine in Venice
Venice has always been considered an important center of trade, with an emphasis on luxury goods and a penchant for extravagance. The main shopping areas are Via Mercerie and the streets collectively called Frezzeria, located between the Church of San Fantin and Piazza San Marco. The densest concentration of stores of famous fashion houses is on the Larga XXII Marzo boutique street, to the west of the square, where Gucci, Prada, Valentino, Fendi and Ferragamo have their outlets. Calle della Mandola is a street with bookshops and glass beads. To find antiques, wander around Piazza Santo Stefano and Piazza San Marco.
Find authentic boutiques with imported or handmade items between Rialto and San Polo.
There are duty free shops in the main cruise terminals, but they are usually closed. Don't forget that bags will be checked by security upon entering the ship.
Seafood plays a big role in the cuisine of Venice - and this is not surprising, given the location of the city. Among the local dishes, a special place is occupied by kichetti, local tapas-style snacks. Good delicacies that we especially recommend trying are folpeti (small octopuses), or schie ( small gray shrimp, usually served with polenta ) . Good restaurants and cafes are scattered throughout the city, especially in San Polo, the adjacent part of Santa Croce and Dorsoduro. The Fondamenta della Misericordia also has excellent seating.
Shop opening hours and weekends in Venice
Most clothing and souvenir shops are closed on Monday morning, and grocery stores are closed on Wednesday afternoon. Approximate store opening hours: from 9 am to 7:30 pm, with closures for lunch and siesta (from 1 to 4 pm on rare occasions).
Where to stay before and after your cruise?
For a port stop before a cruise, try Airbnb, where you can rent a full-fledged apartment for the price of a hotel room. By registering using our link you will receive coupon for 2100 rub. for your first stay from RUB 4,500!
The best things to do in and around the port of Venice
These hotels have been selected by us based on own experience, and the experiences of other cruise travelers. Determining factors when choosing: proximity to the Venice cruise terminal, the ability to quickly and easily get to the ship, as well as the airport or train station.
Venice Cruise Port
What makes Venice a unique city? Stunning sights and unique atmosphere? Not only. Among other things, its unusual location attracts attention. The main historical part of Venice is located on the islands of the lagoon (3-4 km from the mainland). Almost all residential areas and most industrial enterprises are located on the mainland. The island and mainland “halves” are connected by the Ponte della Liberta bridge. All these features of Venice became the prerequisites for building an amazing transport system in the city.
There are 2 airports on the mainland: Marco Polo (12 km from the Venice Islands) and Treviso (30 km north of the city). On the way to Marco Polo Airport, take a seat in the right compartment of the airliner. The best place is near the porthole. Believe me, you won't regret it! Looking from above at the delightful Venetian beauties, you will understand the beauty of such a choice.
Ground transport, available only on the mainland of Venice and the Lido Island, is represented by:
- Cars
- By bus (more than a hundred routes)
- By tram (one route)
- Monorail connecting 3 stations
By car in the island part you can only get to the port of the island of Tronchetto or to Piazzale Roma, where you will find a bus station and parking. Piazzale Roma is the arrival/departure point for all buses. Further around the city you can move either on foot or by Venetian water transport. He is represented by:
- Vaporetto (water buses);
- Traghetto gondolas. They ferry passengers from one side of the Grand Canal to the other;
- Classic pleasure gondolas;
- Private taxi boats;
- Alilaguna boats.
So, let's understand the intricacies of navigating Venice, the famous city on the water.
How to get from Marco Polo Airport to Venice cruise port
Boat trip on the Alilaguna motor ship
If you arrive at Marco Polo airport with plenty of time before your cruise, for 15 € you can ride a boat Alilaguna. As a result, you will enjoy a 90-minute cruise around Venice and end your journey right at the port. You will need to take the blue line boat Lina Blu, the first stop is the airport and the final stop is the cruise port. You can get to the cruise terminal by boats departing from the airport at 7.15, 8.15, 9.00, 9.30 in the morning and then departing every 30 minutes, the last boat departs from the airport at 17.30 and arrives at the port at 19.19. For children under 6 years old the trip is free. Check the current schedule and ticket prices on the company's official website Alilaguna. In total, the company has 4 lines with different routes, perhaps another option for exploring Venice will suit you.
ATVO express bus
Use the company's services ATVO. The journey will take approximately 20 minutes. From the airport to the final stop of the Square of Rome (Piazalle Roma) you can get there for 8 €. The first bus leaves the airport at 5.20 am and the last at 1.20 am. During the day, buses depart every 20 minutes, early in the morning and late in the evening buses run less frequently - every 30-40 minutes. You can check the current schedule and fares on the company’s official website ATVO. From Piazzale Roma you will need to take the People Mover monorail, which will take you directly to the port in 3 minutes or a free shuttle bus. detailed information about monorail below.
Bus No. 5 ACTV
City bus company ACTV from Marco Polo Airport to the center of Venice, Piazzale Roma. The route number 5 Aerobus is suitable for you. The fare is 8 euros one way. The ticket is valid for 90 minutes. Don't forget to validate your ticket before boarding the bus. The bus stop is easy to find - a few meters from exit B of the terminal. Bus tickets can be purchased:
- Ticket office in the arrivals area;
- Ticket machines in the baggage claim area, next to carousel 3 and 5
- At the bus stop
Taxi
The fastest way to get to your destination is by taxi. The trip takes only 15 minutes (30 to 40 €). The water taxi departs from the pier located near the exit of Marco Polo (about 500 meters). It will cost more from 110 euros per boat and above.
Transport arrives at Piazzale Roma. From there you can walk to the aircraft parking lot, take a monorail ride, or take a free bus. They run between Piazzale Roma and the port every half hour. They operate on Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays, as well as on days when large cruise ships call at the port.
How to get from Treviso airport to the port of Venice
Passengers traveling by bus from the “sky terminal” to Venice are served by ATVO, taking into account the landing and departure times of the airliners.
In Treviso, proceed as follows. Buy your ticket (10€) in the arrivals hall. After composting it (find a special device for this), go outside. The bus is already waiting for you. In addition, you will be able to purchase tickets for Piazzale Roma (ATVO office). Remember this though! Drivers do not sell tickets.
The trip will take you 40-70 minutes (depending on the route and how busy the roads are). Most often the buses stop in Mestre and then go to Piazzale Roma. Their routes are different from each other, so if you are going to get off at the final stop, ask the driver whether he passes there or not.
ATVO buses have air conditioning, sun curtains, seat belts and a luggage rack. Choose a chair by the window and enjoy the comfort and enchanting landscape behind the glass.
Another way. City bus number 6 (ASTT) takes you to Treviso Train Station. Then by regional train to Venice (St. Lucia). See below for how to get to the port from this station.
How to get there from the train station St. Lucia – to the aircraft parking area
If you are at Santa Lucia station, the cheapest option is to walk to the terminal. Walk over the Grand Canal on the new, state-of-the-art Constitution Bridge and you'll soon find yourself in the Piazzale Roma car park. The steps of the bridge are low enough that you can even roll your suitcase behind you if you wish. From the parking lot it will be easy to find your way: just follow the signs (or use the methods described above - taxi or transfer bus).
Almost opposite the station there is a parking lot for private water taxis, one of which can be hired to go directly to the cruise terminal. If the price doesn't matter to you special significance- this is the most convenient way. However, if you are traveling in a group or just met several people along the way who are also heading to the port, you can divide the costs equally and not deny yourself comfort. Taxis are designed for 4 – 6 people, and the cost of the trip is fixed and does not depend on the number of passengers.
Finally, you can take one of the vaporettoes that stop opposite the train station. Just remember to make sure that you choose the right route that will drop you off at Piazzale Roma.
At the station you can contact representatives of the Cooperativa Portabagagli di Venezia company for the delivery of things from St. Lucia to the cruise terminal. The cost of one piece of luggage is 5 €. Don't forget to provide your suitcases with special tags.
How to get from Mestre railway station to the port of Venice
If your cruise starts in Venice, you can arrive in the city from anywhere in Italy. In this case, Mestre will be the final station of your journey. You may decide that this is exactly what you need - and you will be wrong. This is an intermediate station, the last stop on the mainland before the long bridge connecting the Italian land with the islands. Since the cruise terminal is located on the island, it still has to be reached from the Mestre.
If you have not yet purchased tickets, look at the train schedule - you can always choose a flight from Mestre to Santa Lucia station that suits your time, from where you can easily get to the cruise port using any of the methods described above. If your tickets have already been booked and you don’t want to waste time searching again, best option is a bus that runs between Mestre station and Piazzale Roma. The trip takes about 15 minutes and costs only a few euros, and getting from the parking area to the cruise terminal is easy.
From the parking lot (bus stop) of Piazzale Roma to the Venice cruise port
Piazzale Roma, where all arriving buses stop and visitors leave their cars, is located near the Marittima terminal. If your ship is docked here, you can walk to the port, take a taxi, or use a transfer: most cruise lines provide this service for certain days weeks. Either way, the journey to the port will only take 5 minutes or less.
It will be a little more difficult to get to the San Basilio terminal. You can also reach it on foot, but this path will be much longer. Take a water taxi from Piazzale Roma or, if you're feeling adventurous and have time, take the water bus around the islands of the Venice Lagoon. Get off at the "Zattere" stop - it is not far from the terminal.
Monorail connecting Piazzale Roma with the port of Venice
A monorail is an automatic train, as you have seen in many international airports, which transports passengers from one terminal to another. The monorail is also often called by the name of the People Moover company.
The train connects Piazzale Roma (this is the main bus terminal, where all buses from Marco Polo Airport and Treviso arrive) with the cruise ship parking area and Tronchetto outdoor parking. The route consists of only 3 stops and the ticket price does not depend on where the passenger gets off - 1.5 €. The ticket machine accepts coins, small bills, and cards. At the checkpoint, you must press your ticket against a device, which will scan the barcode and open the turnstile. The entire trip will take no more than 3 minutes. Getting to the port? You need to stop at Marittima Cruise Terminal, from this stop it is about a 5 minute walk to the ship.
Cruise port in Venice
Most cruise ships land at the Marittima terminal (Bacino della Statione Marittima), which has several berths. The port is located in the western part of the city; adjacent to it is the Tronchetto, a huge parking lot for those who come to Venice by car.
Ask your cruise lines in advance which pier the ship will be moored at (however, they are all located at approximately the same distance from the city center and its attractions). From the cruise port it is only 3 - 4 kilometers to the famous Piazza San Marco.
The port of Venice has several passenger berths. Four of them belong to the Marittima: those numbered 103, 107/108, 117 and Isonzo 1 - 2 receive large cruise ships, and number 123 - ferries coming from Greece. Medium-sized ships moor at San Basilio and Santa Marta.
If you're lucky, your ship will offer free shipping from the passenger port to San Marco and back. Otherwise, you can choose one of two options. The first is to get to the square on one of the Alilaguna water buses, which depart every 20 minutes from the Marittima cruise terminal. A one-way trip takes approximately 15 minutes and costs about 8 euros, a round trip costs 15 euros.
The second option is to walk to the People Moover train station adjacent to the port (the walk will take 15 minutes). For 1.5 euros it will take you to Piazzale Roma, a large transport hub for water taxis and vaporetto. Having crossed the square towards the steeply curved pedestrian bridge, you can take the ACTV water bus. The 8 euro ticket is valid for an hour, so you can change several buses in a row to see more than just St. Mark's Square. Planning to travel by water for a long time, it is better to purchase a 12-hour travel pass for 18 euros. The ticket must be presented in any form public transport: it must be applied to the reading device when entering the stop.
If your boat is docked in San Basilio, you'll need to either use a shuttle service or take one of the port's water buses (their berth is right outside the port gates). The cost of a ticket to San Marco is the same as on the vaporetto, only the journey will be non-stop. The journey to the square will take approximately 20 – 30 minutes.
As for the Vaporetto, Venice's famous public transport system, you can use it to get almost anywhere, with river buses running every 10 to 15 minutes. The ticket costs about 7 euros per trip, the price may vary depending on the destination. If you plan to use ships more than once, buy a one-day “Venice Card” (a suitable card can also be selected for travelers who stay in the city for several days). You can purchase it in advance via the Internet, or on site at any ticket office (for example, in Piazzale Roma), as well as in department stores. All water buses sell travel passes. For short trips you can hire a water taxi, but it is quite expensive (a trip from the port to San Marco costs approximately 60 euros).
You are unlikely to need to rent a car, as Venice itself is car-free. However, if you are planning a trip from the island to the mainland, agencies such as Hertz and Avis are at your service. Their offices are located in Piazzale Roma.
How to get from the seaport in Venice to the city center
Transfer
Some cruise lines offer a shuttle bus to People's Moover Station or Piazzale Roma, from where you can continue your boat journey. Others offer delivery by boat to Piazza San Marco. In any case, if this service is not free, ask about its cost in advance. There are many more options to get from the port to the city center: on foot, by water taxi, Alilaguna motor ship or water bus.
Vaporetto
The best way to see Venice is to combine walks with boat trips. Vaporetto is something like a local bus or metro, only on water. Unfortunately, there are no boat stops at the cruise terminal; the closest one is at Piazzale Roma. You can walk to it or take the People Mover train.
Taxi
Since car traffic is not allowed in the city, taxis can only take you as far as Piazzale Roma. Therefore, it is better to take a walk (from the cruise terminal to the square is only 1 kilometer).
Water taxi
This is the fastest, but also the most expensive method. Like ordinary city taxis, they will take you anywhere in the city without stopping, only not on asphalt, but on water. Taxis can be taken from the stand opposite the Marittima terminal; a trip to the center will cost 50 – 60 euros.
Transfer from the cruise company
Passenger buses offered by some cruise lines will only take you to the People's Moover station or Piazzale Roma, from where you can continue your journey by boat or on foot.
Walk
The port of Venice is huge, with several piers and cruise terminals. At first glance, it may seem that finding your way to the city center will not be easy. It's actually very simple.
Exit the port through the large gate and turn right. You will see signs indicating the direction to the center - just follow them. After crossing the first bridge on your way (there will be many more), you will find yourself in Piazzale Roma. From here it's easy to find your way to San Marco or Ponte di Realto by following the signs through the labyrinth of streets, canals and squares. The entire journey will take about 25 minutes. Venice at night is not only beautiful, but also completely safe, so you can return to your ship the same way even at dusk.
The first part of the walk can be quite boring, so you won't lose anything by skipping it and riding the People Mover from the port to Piazzale Roma.
Luggage storage and delivery at the port of Venice
Company Easy Luggage provides its luggage storage and transfer services in Venice. All luggage storage facilities are available at the Port of Venice in the arrivals terminal. Be careful - each terminal has its own luggage room, which is open from 8.00 to 17.00 on days when the ship is in port. Booking and purchasing online is not required, but is recommended to expedite the on-site baggage check-in process. If you decide to pay and order the service on the spot, then you need to explain to the employee what delivery service you are choosing and the delivery time. The employee will attach a sticker to your suitcase and give you a receipt with a number. You will be required to present this receipt upon receipt of your suitcase. In case of loss, each suitcase is insured for up to 500 euros. But don’t worry - in 2014 the company transported 5 million suitcases and did not lose a single one. You can choose one of the options below. All options also work in the opposite direction.
- Luggage transfer from the cruise port to the Santa Lucia train station. Luggage can be checked in from 8.00 to 13.00 at the port, and collected at the railway station on platform No. 1 from 11.30 to 17.00; after 17.00, 3 euros are charged for each piece of luggage. The cost is 7 euros for each piece of luggage.
- Luggage transfer from the cruise port to your hotel in the center of Venice. Luggage can be dropped off from 8.00 to 13.00, baggage collection at your hotel from 16.00 to 18.00. Cost 10 euros per suitcase.
- Luggage transfer from the cruise port to your hotel in Mestre. Luggage can be dropped off from 8.00 to 13.00, baggage collection at your hotel from 16.00 to 18.00. Cost 12.5 euros per suitcase.
Luggage transfer from the cruise port to Venice Marco Polo Airport. Baggage can be checked in from 8.00 to 13.00, baggage collection at the airport, outside the arrival terminal between entrances D and E from 15.00 to 19.00, after 19.00 3 euros are charged for each piece of luggage. The cost is 12.50 euros per piece of luggage.
Luggage storage in Venice
Are you planning to leave your suitcases and explore the city in peace? You need to find " "Deposito Bagagli" which means luggage storage in Italian. Fortunately for tourists, luggage storage in Venice is located at every major transport hub.
Piazzale Roma
Opposite the ACTV office and next to the People Mover monorail station. Luggage storage is open from 6.00 to 21.00. Cost 7 euros for 24 hours.
At the station - Santa Lucia Ferrovia Station
You will find luggage storage next to platform 1. Opening hours from 6.00 to 23.00. The cost is 6 euros for the first 5 hours, then 0.90 euros for each hour from 6 to 12 hours, and 0.40 euros for each hour from 13 hours and longer.
At Venice Marco Polo Airport
The luggage storage at Venice Airport is located inside the arrivals hall, next to the post office. Opening hours from 5.00 to 21.00. The cost is 6 euros per bag for every 24 hours.
Cruise port
Luggage storage is located in each port terminal and operates only during the ship's stay. The cost is 5 euros for each piece of luggage. Opening hours from 8.00 to 17.00.
Parking at the port of Venice
A parking lot with a couple of thousand spaces is located near the terminals. A passenger car can be left here for a week for 95 euros - this is a special price for cruise ship passengers. To know current prices and you can reserve your place at official website. The place must be reserved in advance by phone, email, fax or on the website. It is recommended to book 7 days or more before cruise departure. The parking lot is located inside the port under 24-hour video surveillance. The rate includes insurance.
Address: Port of Venice - Marittima Area
Tel: +39 – 041 – 2403033/40
Fax: +39 – 041 – 2403090
Website: www.vtp.it
Email: [email protected]
Travel tickets
In Venice, the cost of a single trip on the vaporetto is far from the most humane - 7.5 €. The cost of travel by city bus and tram is less, but still significant - 1.5 €. Therefore, the travel ticket system offered by ACTV - Tourist travel card - will be appreciated by any tourist. You can purchase a travel ticket:
- For 24 hours for 20 €
- For 48 hours for 30 €
- For 72 hours for 40 €
- For 7 days for 60 €
The travel ticket covers almost all vaporetto, bus and tram routes. Exceptions:
- Vaporetto routes 16, 19, 21
- 4, 5, 15, 45 bus routes
- tram line in Mestre area
For those who are not planning on purchasing travel tickets, here is another way to save money. For 5 € you can buy a vaporetto ticket called tragetto ordinario. It gives the right to cross the Venetian Lagoon between the islands - for 1-2 stops.
Shopping the Venetian way
Venice is important shopping center. It is overflowing with unique products. The city's main shopping spots are located on Rue Mercerie, as well as on the streets located between the Church of San Fantin and Piazza San Marco.
On the Venetian boutique street Larga XXII Marzo you will find not only famous Italian brands. There are many world brands here - such as Chanel, Gucci, Prada, Valentino, D&G. Be sure to visit the boutiques on sales days - there are very good discounts at this time.
But still, the main Venetian shopping is souvenir shopping. On Calle della Mandola you will find interesting bookstores, and wandering around Piazza Santo Stefano and Piazza San Marco you can find an antique trinket that you like.
Don’t forget about the “calling card” of Venice – masks and Murano glass. When choosing a mask, focus on the cost of at least 25 €. Only fakes are cheaper. If you decide to acquire a real work of art, you will have to spend a lot of money.
A pendant, vase, plate, chandelier - this is not the most complete list of things made of Murmansk glass that you can buy as a souvenir of your trip to Venice.
Approximate schedule: 9:00 – 19:30 (with lunch break). Most boutiques and souvenir shops are closed on Monday mornings. Many grocery stores are closed on Wednesday afternoon.
Venice for gourmets
Considering the geographical location of Venice, it should not be surprising that seafood rules the roost in its cuisine. Once in Venice, be sure to enjoy the delicacies - octopus (folpeti), small gray shrimp (schie), served with polenta, and the legendary fish soup (zuppa di pesce). Try the pasta that is prepared specifically in Venice - a thicker version of spaghetti called bigoli. The highlight of this dish is the addition of cuttlefish ink. Finally, taste the “syringe” drink (strong or not, sweet or bitter - your choice) and feel like a modern Venetian.
There are many good restaurants and cafes in the city. They are scattered throughout Venice. So have a hearty meal and sip aromatic coffee no problem here. If you want to not only enjoy amazing food, but also admire the views and feel the atmosphere of old Europe, go to Florian. This oldest cafe in Venice keeps the memory of Hemingway and Brodsky, Byron and Casanova. Of course, the simplest cup of coffee here will cost you ten euros, but believe me: a touch of history is worth it.
If you want something special, try one of the chic restaurants at the Cipriani Hotel on Giudecca - the one with a swimming pool. For dinner, choose Chips Club, a grilled pizzeria open air, whose tables are set on a platform right in the lagoon. Just remember that advance reservations are required.
On Giudecca you will also find one of the famous Harris Bar restaurants. The prices here are staggering (a serving of spaghetti starts at €34), but the food is excellent, the atmosphere is typically Venetian, and the crowd is mostly local.
"Ristoteca Oniga" is a small cozy restaurant on Campo Barnaba. His cuisine fully corresponds to the philosophy of " slow food”, which states that the taste of food should be enjoyed slowly. The number of adherents of this movement in Italy is constantly growing, so the restaurant is filled mainly by local gourmets, not tourists. The menu here is typically Italian, and overall the restaurant leaves a pleasant impression.
The main attractions of Venice
Piazza San Marco
According to Napoleon, this graceful piazza was the first drawing room in Europe. This is a huge square surrounded by the perimeter of the Basilica di San Marco, the Torre dell'Orologio clock tower and the arcades of the Procurazio Vecchie and Nuovo. The basilica is the first thing that attracts tourists, so a long wait in line during the high season is guaranteed. Built in 1094, it combines several architectural styles - Romanesque, Byzantine and Renaissance. Don't forget that you will not be allowed into this and many other Italian churches if you are not dressed properly - shoulders and knees must be covered.
Bell Tower (Campanile)
Be sure to climb to the top of the Campanile (Bell Tower) for views of the city. This almost 100-meter-high tower, erected in the 10th century, collapsed at the beginning of the 20th century and was rebuilt. It has become almost a tradition for all tourists to visit one of the two famous cafes located on the square - “Florian” and “Gran Cafe Ristorante Cuadri”. Sitting at one of the open-air tables, you can enjoy watching people pass by, just be prepared for exorbitantly inflated prices. Oddly enough, pigeons love St. Mark's Square as much as people do, so you might want to wear a hat.
Art galleries
Art galleries are everywhere in Venice. The most famous of these include the Galleria dell'Accademia, presenting Venetian art from the 14th to 18th centuries (Boat Line, 82) and the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, with contemporary works of painting and sculpture (Dorsoduro, 701, Palazzo Venier dei Leoni). Peggy Guggenheim was an American who lived in this mansion; she and her beloved dogs are buried here, in the sculpture garden. Frescoes and paintings by the famous Tintoretto can be admired in the Scuola Grande di San Rocco (located in Campo di San Rocco).
Grand Canal
This winding canal running through the city center is the Venetian equivalent of a motorway, with stunning views of the 12th-century palaces that line its banks. The best way to travel along the canal is by Vaporetto, Venice's river bus line no. with shops and wonderful trattorias. Pedestrians can cross the canal on three bridges: Accademia, Rialto and Scalzi.
Cathedrals and churches
The beautiful cathedrals and churches of Venice are too numerous to mention them all. In addition to the Basilica in Piazza San Marco, the most famous are the 14th-15th century Gothic church of Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari (Campo dei Frari in the San Polo area) and the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute (Punta della Dogana in Dorsoduro).
Gondola ride
This is not only a must-see for every tourist, it is also incredibly romantic, especially at sunset. This is also a chance to see Venice from a slightly different side - from the narrow canals where the water buses do not operate. Gondolas usually take between two and six people, with payment only for the ride, regardless of the number of passengers. The trip lasts from 30 to 50 minutes. The price must be negotiated before you board the boat (usually around 80 euros).
Murano Island
Those interested in the famous Venetian glass can head to the island of Murano. Boats to the island depart from Piazza San Marco every 20 minutes - this is a special tourist route No. 7. In Murano he makes several stops, the main one of which is called “Corinna”. You will be able to see the whole process and various techniques production of glass products in several factories. There are also many art galleries here that specialize in selling Murano glass. Most shops and art galleries in Venice also sell it, but on the island you will find a much larger selection to suit every taste, from traditional to modern.
Burano Island
A little further away is the charming island village of Burano, known for its brightly colored houses and exquisite lace. self made(These days, not all lace sold here is handmade; be sure to inquire about the origin of what you like). If you want to learn more about the art and history of weaving, visit the Lace Museum (Museo del Merletto). And don't worry if your cruise doesn't include visiting Pisa - Campanile Burano also has a fairly noticeable slope.
Giudecca Island
Opposite Venice is the island of Giudecca with its magnificent views of the city. Rich Venetians prefer to build their residences here. Many simpler people have also moved here since Venice became overrun with tourists and prices became too high. The main attraction here is the Chiesa del Redentore, a church built in the 16th century. Gourmets can visit the restaurant of the chic Cipriani Hotel using the free shuttle service from Piazza San Marco.
Lido Island
This is the beach island of Venice, facing the Venetian Lagoon on one side and the Adriatic Sea on the other. Vaporetto buses come here regularly, bringing everyone who wants to take a break from the summer heat.
Sights of Venice in one day
Venice is an amazing place where every building is a masterpiece. You can explore Piazza San Marco alone for weeks and find a new feature on this “canvas” every day. In order for you not to get confused due to the abundance of architectural monuments, museums, historical buildings and other outlandish places, we have compiled a unique excursion route for you. After all, if you are in Venice for just one day, you need to spend it usefully. Of course, it is difficult to follow an absolutely clear route along specific – narrow and confusing – streets. No need! The main thing is that you will know what to pay attention to first. Set a direction and go! And if you get lost (which is unlikely thanks to the numerous signs to San Marco and Rialto), the Venetians will help you.
So, first we recommend visiting the Frari Cathedral (entrance – 3 €). The Gothic basilica will enchant you with stunning altars, sculptures of saints, monuments to great doges and generals, paintings by famous artists and exquisite stucco. The cathedral is still active today. Therefore, it is attractive to both tourists and local residents.
Wander through the streets that run through the city - feel the atmosphere medieval Europe. If you get hungry, you can choose any cafe and have a snack.
Wait for the clock hands to reach the number "4" and go to the very heart of Venice - St. Mark's Square. Shouldn't be here at this time long queues. Most likely, you have seen this square on TV, on postcards, in booklets. But no matter how familiar San Marco may seem from the pictures, every tourist, seeing it in person, freezes with delight. Believe me, you will not be an exception.
The bell tower soaring into the clouds (you can climb for 8 €), the majestic San Marco Cathedral (entrance is free), the magnificent Doge's Palace (entrance is 18 €), the amazing Clock Tower (entrance is 12.5 €). Here are the minimum attractions in this “field of miracles” that are worth getting to know better.
Be sure to walk along the Bridge of Sighs, from where those sentenced to death long ago death penalty V last time we examined the captivating landscape and said goodbye to Venice, to freedom, to life.
After escaping the captivity of Piazza San Marco, head to the Rialto Bridge. From this symbol of Venice, book a gondola (€80 – 4 seats) and take a ride along the luxurious palaces where in the old days the Venetian nobility treated their enemies with deadly poison.
Let the “final chord” of a one-day excursion be a vaporetto ride along the Grand Canal. We advise you not to pay attention to the maddening details from the guidebook. Give in to the steady flow of the waters and enjoy the enchanting view.
For museum lovers
Tour of the Secret Rooms of the Doge's Palace
The following route is suitable for all tourists who prefer a leisurely stroll through museums and thoughtful admiration of works of art. Start your day trip to Venice with an exclusive tour of the secret rooms of the Doge's Palace, which is impossible to get into without a guide and pre-booked tickets. official website or by phone through the call center in Italy +39 041 42730892 from Monday to Friday, from 9 am to 6 pm, lunch break from 1 pm to 2 pm. Saturday from 9 am to 2 pm. On Sundays and holidays it is not possible to book a tour by phone.
The price also includes: entrance to the Correr Museum and the Cathedral of San Marco. This tour will especially appeal to travelers who have already been to Venice and want to get off the beaten path. Exploring the secret archives, meeting rooms, torture chambers and prison cells where the famous Casanova was once kept under lock and key will be an exciting adventure. After the 1 hour 15 minute tour, you can explore the Doge's Palace on your own.
This tour is not available in Russian, but you can take a tour with one of the following groups:
- in Italian at 9:30 and 11:10;
- in English at 9:55, 10:45 and 11:35;
- in French at 10:20 and 12:00.
If you are traveling big company 15+ people, then you can book this tour with an additional payment of only 31 euros for the entire group. Private tours run after 1pm until the Doge's Palace closes. This offer is not valid from July 1st to August 31st.
Important! The tour includes placement of small rooms, narrow stairs and is not recommended for people suffering from claustrophobia and fear of confined spaces, as well as pregnant women. Children under 6 years old are not allowed to participate in the tour.
The cost of the tour is 20 euros per person. Discount tickets for 14 euros per person for:
- children from 6 to 14 years old;
- students 15-25 years old with a certificate;
- coordinators (maximum 2) of groups of children or students;
- citizens of the country who are pensioners over 65 years of age;
- residents of Venice;
- Rolling Venice Card holders;
- holders of a combined ticket for the museums of Piazza San Marco;
- holders of a single ticket for all museums;
- Clock Tower ticket holders.
Clock Tower Tour
Take advantage of the Clock Tower tour. It's needed book in advance. Then you'll time it the best way and have time to explore the Correr Museum (between the tour of the secret rooms and the tour of the tower). Its treasures, which embody the history, culture and way of life of Venice, will not leave anyone indifferent. It’s very convenient that the fee for the tour to the Clock Tower will be around ticket offices at the Correr Museum 5 minutes before the start of the tour.
A unique, incredibly beautiful watch - not simple, but astronomical. By looking at the huge blue-gold dial, you will not only know what time it is, but also get information about the phase of the moon, constellations and time of year. During the tour, you, like time travelers, will see amazing clock mechanisms with your own eyes. Another plus is the stunning view from the Clock Tower. The duration of the tour is about an hour. Those who have purchased tickets to the Clock Tower are offered a free visit to the Correr Museum, National Archaeological Museum and the Monumental Halls of the Marciana Library.
The cost of the excursion is 12 euros per person. A discounted excursion for 7 euros can be purchased by:
- children from 6 to 14 years old;
- students with a certificate 15-25 years old;
- coordinators of groups of children/students (maximum 2)
- citizens of the country, pensioners over 65 years of age;
- residents of Venice;
- Rolling Venice Card holders;
- holders of a ticket for the museums of Piazza San Marco or a single ticket for all museums;
- visiting the Secret Rooms of the Doge's Palace.
The excursion is only possible by prior reservation. Children under 6 years old are not allowed on the tour. You can purchase a tour in one of the following languages:
- in Italian daily at 12.00 and 16.00
- in English from Monday to Wednesday at 10.00 and 11.00, Thursday-Sunday 14.00 and 15.00
- in French from Monday to Wednesday at 14.00 and 15.00, Thursday-Sunday 10.00 and 11.00
Traveling with a large group? Upon request, you can pre-book a tour in any other language by purchasing 12 tickets. It is also possible to visit the Clock Tower after closing by purchasing 12 tickets and sending a request in advance (5 days or more) before the desired excursion date to clarify the possibility and availability. For safety reasons, the tour is limited to a maximum of 12 people.
And finally, the last stop is St. Mark's Cathedral. A booked tour of the palace's secret rooms gives you full access to the Cathedral without queuing. Spend the remaining time wandering around the basilica. Note the magnificent Romanesque carvings, unusual mosaics, works by Titian and the famous Golden Altar.
Features of the proposed route are a measured mode and a limited number of objects. You will not be torn between numerous attractions and try to embrace the immensity. Instead, calmly explore several interesting places. Check out the rest later. When you return. And you will certainly do it. Because Venice is a city you want to return to again and again.
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Doge's Palace
This is a great architectural monument of Italy. The former seat of the Venetian government, awe-inspiring to foreign visitors, is now a rich public museum.
Grand Canal
As the city's waterway, the Grand Canal penetrates the heart of Venice and divides it in half. The most beautiful Venetian palaces adjoin it, which makes the canal so popular among tourists.
Cathedral of San Marco
A grandiose building made in the Byzantine style. The five-domed cathedral is decorated with Romanesque carvings, charming mosaics, works by Titian and the famous Golden Altar.
Campanile Bell Tower
It is part of the majestic St. Mark's Cathedral. Climbing onto this tallest building in the city (99m), you can enjoy a stunning panorama of Venice.
Rialto Bridge
A structure erected in the narrowest section of the Grand Canal, which was the first to connect its banks. This wonder of Venice is one of the main attractions of the city.
Cathedral of Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari
Frari Cathedral is a tall (70 m) brick building made in the Italian Gothic style. Such famous masters as Donatello and Titian made efforts to decorate the basilica.
Libreria Alta Acqua
A unique bookstore with an amazing interior, welcoming visitors with a whole labyrinth of books, magazines, comics, postcards, reproductions and interesting souvenirs.
Bridge of Sighs
The arched Bridge of Sighs, made of white limestone and decorated in the Baroque style, is beautiful and unusual. In ancient times, on this exquisite structure, prisoners sighed with grief, and lovers sighed with happiness.
