Venice Marco Polo Airport serves as a gateway to Italy’s Veneto region. Located just 8 kilometers from the city center, it connects travelers to Venice’s historic canals and bustling markets. The airport handles domestic and international flights, making it easy for visitors to reach St. Mark’s Square or nearby islands like Murano. Its compact design simplifies navigation, with rental cars and water taxis available on-site. The terminal provides essential services such as baggage claim and customs, ensuring a straightforward start to exploring Venice’s unique culture and architecture.
| Power Grid: |
230 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type C , Type F
Type C:
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| Currency: |
Euro (EUR) £1 ≈ €1.19 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 5/5
Cashless payments are widely accepted in Italy, particularly in cities. While larger establishments and chains are fully cashless, smaller shops may still prefer cash.
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| eSIM providers: |
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| Tipping: | Tipping is customary in Italy, especially in restaurants where 10-15% is typical. Tipping for taxi drivers is usually rounded up or 5-10%. Small tips for hotel staff are also appreciated. |
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| Public drinking: | Public drinking is allowed in Italy, especially in public squares and during festivals. In some regions, it is illegal to drink alcohol in certain areas like public transport or near schools. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is banned in indoor public spaces and on public transport. Designated smoking areas are available outside. |
| Ferragosto (August) |
Many businesses close, and Italians take holidays. It’s very busy in tourist areas. |
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| Christmas (December) |
Christmas markets and festivities are popular, expect higher prices and crowded attractions. |
| La Befana (January) |
Celebrated on January 6, the Epiphany is a public holiday with festive events, and some businesses close. |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Number: 112 (Police, Fire, Ambulance) |
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| Taxi apps: | Uber, Free Now, ItTaxi |
| Other: | Italy's tourist infrastructure is well-developed, but some rural or historical areas may require extra planning for accessibility. |
Venice Marco Polo Airport brings you as close as possible to the magical heart of Venice. With its spacious, light-filled terminals and a solid selection of local cuisine and Italian boutiques, it’s an entry point that gets travelers in the mood for piazzas and canals almost instantly. The journey from plane to boat might feel surreal – the anticipation in the air is infectious!
The airport’s biggest strengths are efficiency, cleanliness and a friendly, helpful staff. Food lovers will adore the locally inspired eateries and, although options for international cuisine are limited, fresh Italian pastries and authentic espresso make every layover memorable. The terminal’s design lets natural light flood in and you’ll spot glimpses of the lagoon as you head toward Venice proper.
It’s not all gondolas and gelato, though. The airport can get crowded during summer and holidays, leading to long waits at passport control and limited seating at gates. Some reviews mention that food and drink are pricey and bus boarding is used even when airbridges are free. If you’re short on time or hate queues, keep this in mind and plan a little extra buffer into your schedule.
Still, there’s a unique satisfaction in stepping onto a vaporetto or water taxi right outside the terminal, knowing Venice’s enchanting canals and historic squares are just minutes away. The journey begins before you leave the airport – a place that, despite its quirks, is both practical and imbued with unmistakable Italian style.
A sleek, modern refuge featuring a sweet and savoury Italian buffet, fast Wi-Fi, business workstations, shower facilities, and relaxation zones. The panoramic terrace gives great apron and lagoon views. Free for some business and first class tickets, day passes for €35 – 40 (£29.39 – 33.59). Can be crowded at peak times.
Catered mostly to SkyTeam-affiliated passengers, this lounge offers complimentary snacks, drinks, quietness, and workspaces. Accessible with qualifying tickets, SkyTeam Elite Plus, or for a fee (typically €32 – 36 (£26.87 – 30.23)). Bright, with large windows and a peaceful vibe, but smaller than Marco Polo Lounge.
Venice offers everything from historic boutique hotels and charming pensions to luxury chains, all easily accessible via bus, taxi or water transport from the airport. Booking early is wise, especially in high season.
To Venice City Center:
The most scenic route is the Alilaguna water shuttle, departing directly from the dock near the terminal. It takes 45–70 minutes depending on route (~€15 (£12.60) one-way) and runs every 30–60 minutes. ATVO and ACTV buses (including the express aerobus) connect the airport to Piazzale Roma in around 20–30 minutes (from €8 (£6.72)), departing every 15–30 minutes. Taxis (land or water) are fastest but expensive (€40 – 100 (£33.59 – 83.97)); land taxis aren’t allowed in historic Venice proper.
To Mestre and Mainland:
Frequent ATVO and ACTV buses serve Mestre railway station and central Mestre (10–20 minutes, €8 (£6.72)), with routes continuing to major cities like Padua, Verona, and Trieste. Taxis and private car hires are also available; travel time ranges from 10 to 25 minutes depending on traffic.
To Lido di Venezia and Murano:
Alilaguna’s Blue and Red lines reach Lido and Murano direct from the airport dock. Chill with a view of the lagoon as you cross—expect travel times of 35–60 minutes and tickets around €15 (£12.60). Evening and winter schedules are less frequent, so confirm in advance.
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