Getting Around Venice: Vaporetto, Water Taxi, or On Foot?
/Venice doesn’t offer you the usual travel choices—no Ubers, no traffic jams (except maybe on the Grand Canal), and no car horns. Here, how you move is part of the experience. But the truth is, many visitors underestimate how different navigating Venice really is. Whether you’re arriving for the first time or returning for another taste of La Serenissima, here’s what you need to know—not just the basics, but what actually matters.
🚤 Vaporetto: Venice’s Floating Metro
Vaporetti are public water buses that zigzag through Venice’s canals and to the outlying islands like Murano, Burano, and Lido.
They’re not romantic—but they are efficient.
Lines to know: Line 1 is slow but scenic (perfect for your first ride down the Grand Canal), Line 2 is quicker and skips some stops.
Tickets: A single ride is expensive (€9.50), so get a 1-3 day ACTV pass if you’ll ride more than twice.
Timing: They’re reliable but often crowded. Early mornings and late evenings are the best for space and views.
Local tip: Stand in the front (when allowed) for iconic photos—but keep an eye on the spray!
🛥️ Water Taxis: Glamorous, Fast, and Pricey
There’s no better way to arrive in Venice than by private water taxi. Gliding across the lagoon, city unfolding in front of you, it feels like a movie scene—and it often is (Hollywood loves them).
Cost: Around €120–€150 from the airport to central Venice. Yes, it’s steep. But if you’re traveling with luggage, or just want the wow factor, it’s worth it.
Shared options: Many companies now offer shared water taxis for ~€35–45 per person, a good middle ground.
When to use it: Arrival day, special occasions, or anytime you want a dramatic entrance.
🚶 Walking: The Only Way to Really See Venice
Venice is a city made for walking—and getting lost is part of the charm. No matter how good your map app is, you’ll turn a corner and find yourself in a different world. That’s not a bug. It’s a feature.
Distances: Despite the maze-like layout, most places are 15–30 minutes apart by foot.
Footwear: Leave the heels at home. Cobblestones + bridges = regret.
Bridges: There are over 400 of them. You will cross several. Take your time—many have stunning views most tourists miss.
Photographer’s tip: Early morning and blue hour are magical. Venice empties out and the reflections on the canals are pure poetry.
✨ Want More Than Just a Walk?
If you’d like to turn a simple stroll into something deeper—seeing beyond the postcard—consider joining me on a private photo walk. Whether you carry a camera or just your phone, we’ll explore hidden corners, observe the rhythm of daily life, and capture Venice in a way most never notice.
👉 Explore my Venice walks and tours
