Immerse yourself in the timeless allure of Venice, a city that embodies the perfect blend of history, art, and romance. From the labyrinth of canals to the narrow streets that make up this enchanting Italian gem, no two places are alike. Every turn reveals a new perspective, and the echoes of history whisper from ancient palazzos. Join us as we unearth what you need to know about visiting Venice and how to get here with the best ferry routes around.
Where is Venice?
Nestled in the Veneto region, Venice is a captivating city in northeastern Italy. It’s an architectural marvel, sitting atop 118 small islands that are all interconnected by a maze of picturesque canals and quaint bridges, in the shallow Venetian Lagoon, which stretches along the Adriatic Sea.
Steeped in history and culture, Venice enchants you with its unique charm and romantic ambiance. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this iconic destination continues to captivate the hearts of travelers, artists and romantics from all corners of the globe.
Can I get to Venice by ferry?
As a port city, Venice is easily accessible by sea, with many travelers coming here via ferry. Indeed, the ferry is one of the most popular ways to get to the city. There are several options for reaching Venice from various ports along the Adriatic Sea, which you can book with Ferryscanner.
Choosing your ferry route: key departure points
When planning your ferry trip to Venice, you’ll need to determine the most convenient departure points based on your location. Several popular ports throughout Europe offer services to the captivating city of Venice:
- Igoumenitsa, Greece. This bustling Greek port is an excellent starting point for travelers exploring the Mediterranean. With regular connections to Venice, it is a convenient gateway to the Adriatic Sea.
- Patras, Greece. As Greece’s third-largest city, Patras offers ferry services to Venice for those seeking a memorable journey through the Mediterranean and the Adriatic.
- Poreč, Croatia. This picturesque coastal town is renowned for its ancient Roman architecture and stunning beaches. Poreč’s proximity to Venice makes it an ideal launching point for those exploring the Adriatic coast.
- Rovinj, Croatia. With its colorful old town and vibrant waterfront, Rovinj is another idyllic Croatian destination offering ferry services to Venice.
- Split, Croatia. As Croatia’s second-largest city, Split boasts an extensive ferry network with connections to Venice, providing travelers with a seamless transition from the Dalmatian coast to the city of canals.
- Piran, Slovenia. Piran, a picturesque coastal town in Slovenia, serves as a popular departure point for seasonal ferry services to Venice, offering travelers a convenient and scenic way to embark on their Venetian adventure.
Which ferry companies operate in Venice?
- Anek Lines. With a long-standing reputation for quality, Anek Lines offers regular connections between Greece and Venice, ensuring a delightful voyage across the Mediterranean.
- Minoan Lines. Minoan Lines is a popular choice among travelers, providing reliable and comfortable ferry services from Greece to Venice.
- Jadrolinija. As Croatia’s largest ferry operator, Jadrolinija connects multiple Croatian ports with Venice, offering an extensive range of sailing options.
- Venezia Lines. Specializing in fast ferry services, Venezia Lines ensures a speedy and efficient journey from various Croatian ports to Venice.
How long do ferry trips to Venice take?
It depends where you depart from, but expect a ferry trip to Venice to take anywhere between a few hours and longer than a day. If you’re traveling from Greece, ferry times ca take more than 30 hours. While trips from Croatia and Slovenia are around three to four hours.
Within Venice and the surrounding areas, vaporetto trips vary in length depending on the route and stops involved. For instance, a trip from Piazzale Roma to St. Mark’s Square on the popular Line 1 takes about 45 minutes, while a trip from Lido to Murano might take around 20-30 minutes.
What are the best neighborhoods to visit in Venice?
Venice is filled with quaint neighborhoods where you can soak up the local atmosphere and take in the beauty on offer. Here’s a rundown of the best neighborhoods to visit in Venice, spots where you can lose yourself in the city’s beauty.
San Marco
San Marco is the heart of Venice, home to iconic landmarks like St. Mark’s Square and Basilica, Doge’s Palace and the Bridge of Sighs. Get lost in the surrounding maze of narrow streets, where you’ll discover high-end boutiques, art galleries and elegant cafes like Caffè Florian. For a stunning panoramic view of the city, climb the Campanile di San Marco or enjoy a classic gondola ride along the Grand Canal.
Dorsoduro
Dorsoduro is a charming, artsy district boasting picturesque canals, bohemian vibes, and beautiful palazzos. Visit the Peggy Guggenheim Collection for modern art, or explore the Accademia Gallery, which houses Venetian masterpieces. Stroll along the Zattere waterfront promenade, savoring the sunset and the local specialty, ‘gianduiotto’ ice cream from Gelateria Nico.
Cannaregio
Cannaregio is a lively, authentic neighborhood with bustling markets and local eateries. Wander the historic Jewish Ghetto, visit the serene Madonna dell’Orto church, or indulge in a traditional ‘cicchetti’ (Venetian tapas) crawl at local taverns, like Al Timon or Cantina Do Mori. Don’t miss the stunning Ca’ d’Oro palace, a Gothic masterpiece overlooking the Grand Canal.
Castello
A true local’s paradise, Castello offers a peaceful retreat from the tourist crowds. Stroll through the verdant Giardini della Biennale, host to the prestigious Venice Biennale art exhibition, or explore the impressive Naval History Museum. Take a leisurely walk along Via Garibaldi, enjoying its vibrant markets, quaint cafes, and the picturesque waterfront at Riva degli Schiavoni.
What are the best things to do in Venice?
Within Venice’s beautiful neighborhoods are iconic landmarks offering visitors a glimpse into the past, present and future. There are so many things to do in the city that knowing where to start can be daunting. Here are some of the best things to do in Venice.
St. Mark’s Square and Basilica
As Venice’s most iconic landmark, St. Mark’s Square is a must-visit, surrounded by stunning architecture and historical sites. Step inside St. Mark’s Basilica to marvel at its glittering mosaics and opulent interior. Don’t forget to visit the museum and the Pala d’Oro altar for a true Venetian experience.
Doge’s Palace and Bridge of Sighs
Discover the heart of Venetian political history at the Doge’s Palace, where lavish rooms and grand halls showcase the city’s past grandeur. Wander across the famous Bridge of Sighs, which connects the palace to the prison, and imagine the prisoners’ final glimpse of Venice.
Gondola Ride
A gondola ride is quintessentially Venetian, offering a unique perspective of the city’s canals and architecture. For a more romantic experience, opt for a sunset ride, serenaded by your gondolier as you glide through the enchanting waterways.
Rialto Market and Bridge
Visit the bustling Rialto Market for a taste of local life, where merchants sell fresh produce, seafood, and Venetian specialties. Stroll across the historic Rialto Bridge, a remarkable feat of engineering and a perfect spot for memorable photos.
Murano, Burano, and Torcello
Embark on a lagoon island-hopping adventure to Murano, famous for its glassmaking heritage, Burano, known for its colorful houses and lace-making, and Torcello, a tranquil island with a rich history and the Byzantine Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta.
Peggy Guggenheim Collection
Art enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, housed in the former residence of the American heiress. Explore an exceptional collection of modern art, featuring works by Picasso, Dalí, Pollock, and many other prominent artists.
Teatro La Fenice
Experience the opulence of Venice’s famed opera house, Teatro La Fenice, by attending a world-class opera or classical music performance. Alternatively, take a guided tour to learn about the theater’s dramatic history and admire its sumptuous interiors.
Are there any beaches in Venice?
Good news if you enjoy lazing the day away in the sun because there are beaches in Venice, particularly on the Lido di Venezia. It’s a long, narrow island separating the Venetian Lagoon from the Adriatic Sea. Lido is also known for its sandy beaches, lush villas and relaxed atmosphere that provide a pleasing contrast to the historic city center.
Blue Moon Beach, Lido di Venezia
The most popular public beach on Lido, Blue Moon Beach offers golden sands and a relaxed atmosphere. Easily accessible from the Lido S.M.E. waterbus stop, this beach offers a perfect escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Alberoni Beach, Lido di Venezia
Located at Lido’s southern tip, Alberoni Beach is a pristine, secluded haven where you can escape the noise. Surrounded by sand dunes and a nature reserve, the beach provides a tranquil setting for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the natural beauty of Venice.
Excelsior Beach Club, Lido di Venezia
The luxurious Excelsior Beach Club boasts well-maintained sands, sunbeds, umbrellas, and cabanas. There’s an exclusive atmosphere here as well as top-notch amenities that make it an ideal choice for visitors seeking a more indulgent beach experience.
San Nicolò Beach, Lido di Venezia
Nestled on Lido’s northern end, San Nicolò Beach is a peaceful retreat with a calm, shallow shoreline for you to dip your toes in the waters. The beach is ideal for families and offers an idyllic spot for swimming and relaxing amidst the serene surroundings.
Sottomarina Beach, Chioggia
Lastly, there is Sottomarina Beach, which is a short drive from Venice, in Chioggia. It’s a wide, sandy beach with crystal-clear waters that’s renowned for cleanliness and excellent facilities. This beach is popular among both locals and tourists thanks to its lively atmosphere and water sports opportunities.
What you need to know about visiting Venice via ferry
Whether you’re traversing the narrow streets and picturesque canals or enjoying the sun on a nearby beach, every moment spent in Venice is sure to be unforgettable. And with an array of ferry routes and convenient departure points, reaching the city has never been easier. Embark on your own Venetian adventure and uncover the myriad delights that await you in this magical city.