A layover in Venice is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Venice Marco Polo Airport sits just 60 minutes from the city center by ATVO Airport Express & Alilaguna Water Bus, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Before heading into Venice, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Italy vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Venice is roughly 60 minutes from VCE via ATVO Airport Express & Alilaguna Water Bus. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in EUR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EUR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
How to Get Into Venice
You have two main options for getting from Venice Marco Polo Airport into town:
- ATVO Airport Express & Alilaguna Water Bus: About 60 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 80 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Venice might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$14 USD
- A meal: ~$27 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$51 USD
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Exploring Venice on a Layover
For a layover visit to Venice, we’d suggest Piazza San Marco (St. Mark’s Square) and Rialto Bridge (Ponte di Rialto). Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Venice. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside VCE, you can spend time at Marco Polo Club Lounge or try Aelia Duty Free. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Food Worth Trying
In Venice
If you make it into town, Trattoria da Bepi Ghiottone is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Pizzeria Ae Oche (Santa Croce).
Inside VCE
If you’re staying in the terminal, Bricco Café is your main option. De Canto works too if you want something quick.
What to Do With Your Bags
Traveling light makes a layover outing much easier. At VCE, you’ll find bag storage at Ground floor of the terminal, outside the arrivals area, in front of the exit, on the left..
Tip: store your bags as soon as you clear arrivals to maximize your free time. If the airport options don’t work for you, check online luggage storage platforms for alternatives near the city center.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at VCE for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Venice or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Sleep & Lounge Options at VCE
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at VCE.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Venice is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Venice.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.