I know there are several options for getting from the airport to Piazza San Marco. Is it easier to take the vaparetto straight to the square, or go for the bus/vaparetto combo? It seems like the price isn't much different, and that the vaparetto is more of a straight shot, but wanted some more input. Thanks!
Posted by
Rick Steves' Europe
16895 posts
At 15 euros, the Aliguna boat from the airport is slightly more expensive than the bus/vaporetto combo, but does go straight to your destination in a scenic 1.25 hours with no connection. It will start out empty at the airport, so boarding with luggage should be a bit easier than on the vaporetto at Piazzale Roma.
Posted by
Seattle, WA, USA
7737 posts
In your situation (going right to San Marco), do the Alilaguna for the reasons given. But be advised that it's not a particularly romantic boat ride - pretty loud, low in the water and sometimes smelling of diesel. It's not terrible, just not great. (Similarly, the bus ride is pretty blah.)
I've always wanted to splurge for the private water taxi, but never could bring myself to part with the euros. :-)
Posted by
Singapore
354 posts
Michael is right, the Alilaguna water bus from / to the airport isn't a romantic one. It's also very slow. I took it once and found myself sweltering inside because it was a very hot day. The bus/ vaporetto combination sounds inconvenient but it's not too difficult, and will still be my preferred choice.
Posted by
New York, NY, USA
11294 posts
Just a clarification of terminology: the water boat that goes directly from the airport to Venice is not a vaporetto, but the Alilaguna. The vaporetti (plural of vaporetto) are boats that serve Venice proper, so these run from the bus station (Piazzale Roma) and train station (Venezia Santa Lucia) to Piazza San Marco. The vaporetti and the Alilaguna are run by different companies.