Public transportation in Venice is mainly operated by water buses, also known as “vaporetti”, and water cabs. The vaporetti are the most frequently used means of transportation in Venice and offer a quick and easy way to get around the city and the surrounding islands.
The vaporetto
The vaporetti are operated by ACTV, the public transport operator in Venice, and run on various routes along the Grand Canal and through the smaller canals in the city. There are several vaporetti lines serving different parts of the city.
Most vaporetti stop at the stops along the Grand Canal, including the famous Rialto and San Marco stops. They also travel to the islands of Murano, Burano and Torcello as well as to the Lido beaches. Fares vary depending on the route and duration of the trip, but tourists can also buy a vaporetto ticket for one or more days, which gives them unlimited travel.
The Water Taxi
Water cabs are a faster and more convenient way to get around Venice and the surrounding islands. They can be picked up at any point in the city and offer a personalized, tailor-made experience. However, water cabs are generally more expensive than vaporetti and should therefore be planned carefully.
The gondolas
There are also gondolas that serve as a tourist attraction and travel on the canals in Venice. However, these are expensive and are usually only used by tourists who want to enjoy a romantic ride through Venice.
In addition to the watercraft, there are also public buses on the mainland that connect Venice with other cities in the Veneto region. The main train station Santa Lucia in Venice is an important hub for public transportation in the city and offers connections to national and international train lines as well as bus lines.
Overall, Venice offers a diverse network of public transportation, providing visitors and locals with an easy and convenient way to get around the city and the surrounding islands.
Current timetables Venice
The current timetables for Venice are important so as not to miss the last vaporetto on an island. Because then you have to rely on the expensive water cabs. So if you use the current timetable for Venice as a guide, you are always on the better side. You can download the current timetables HERE.