Vaporetto ACTV – Routes and Tickets
The Vaporetto ACTV is Venice‘s public water transport system and the most practical way to move around the city. It connects the historic center, the Grand Canal, the lagoon islands, and key transport hubs, offering visitors an efficient alternative to walking or private water taxis.
Whether you are traveling for sightseeing or simply reaching your hotel, the vaporetto allows you to experience Venice from the water while following fixed routes operated by ACTV, the city’s official transport authority.
For accommodation options conveniently connected by vaporetto stops, explore our selection of Hotel Ca’ Alvise, Hotel Marconi, and Hotel San Moisè, all strategically positioned near major vaporetto stops in Venice.
Main Vaporetto Routes
The vaporetto network includes several lines designed to serve different areas of Venice and the lagoon.
Some routes are ideal for everyday transportation, while others are perfect for sightseeing along the canals.
-
Line 1: Operates along the Grand Canal, stopping at all major landmarks.
It is slower but offers the most scenic journey through Venice. -
Line 2: A faster route along the Grand Canal with fewer stops,
ideal for reaching distant areas more quickly. -
Lagoon Lines: Connect Venice with Murano, Burano, and Torcello,
making them popular choices for day trips. -
Mainland Connections: Lines serving Piazzale Roma and other key transport hubs,
useful when arriving by car or bus.
Choosing the right vaporetto line helps optimize travel time and makes it easier
to reach hotels and attractions throughout Venice.
Vaporetto Tickets and Travel Passes
ACTV offers different ticket options depending on how long you stay in Venice and how often you plan to use public water transport. Tickets are available at vending machines, ticket offices, and authorized retailers across the city.
Many visitors choose multi-day travel passes, which allow unlimited rides for a fixed period and are especially convenient for sightseeing as well as hotel transfers.
Which Tickets to Choose?
| Ticket Type | Approximate Price | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| Single ticket (75 min) | €10 | One trip or test before pass |
| 10-trip carnet | €70–75 | Occasional users |
| 24-hour pass | €25 | Full day in Venice |
| 48-hour pass | €35 | Weekend stay (best value) |
| 72-hour pass | €50 | 3-day stay (best ratio) |
| 7-day pass | €80 | Long stay, maximum flexibility |
Note: Prices are approximate. Always check actv.it for current rates and promotions.
How and Where to Buy Tickets
- Vending machines: at major stops (cash and card accepted)
- ACTV ticket offices: Piazzale Roma, Central Station, Piazza San Marco
- Authorized retailers: hotels, tobacconists, newsstands throughout the city
- ACTV app: Download the official app to purchase digitally (faster, no queues)
Ticket Validation (Essential!)
Before boarding, validate your ticket at the electronic readers located at vaporetto stops. Correct validation is essential to avoid penalties during inspections (fines up to €100).
💡 Tip: If you purchase a multi-day pass, validate it only on the first day — passes begin counting 24 hours after first validation.
Main Routes and Navigation
To plan your movements by vaporetto, consult the interactive ACTV map or ask your hotel for the most useful lines.
Most popular routes for tourists:
- Line 1: Grand Canal (Piazzale Roma → Station → San Marco) — the main “water walk”
- Line 2: Outer circular (full lagoon loop) — perfect for visiting islands (Burano, Murano, Torcello)
- Line N: Night vaporetto (after 23:00)
Money-Saving Strategies
- If staying 3+ days, the 72-hour pass is more economical than single tickets
- Many hotels include free ACTV tickets with booking — ask!
- If you prefer to avoid crowded vaporettos, consider a private water taxi for certain trips
Plan Your Stay
When choosing accommodation with easy vaporetto access, explore Hotel Ca’ Alvise, Hotel Marconi, and Hotel San Moisè — all strategically positioned near major stops for seamless transport connections.
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