Hi , we are travelling from Florence to Venice by train next week. Regarding train travel we have booked first class where do you store your suitcases. ?
When we arrive at Venice we need to catch a water taxi to our hotel Casa Fenice. I have read different info regarding the water taxis we will have a suitcase each would it be best to catch a private water taxi and if so are they available when we arrive or should we pre book. Thank you for you advice.
We found fellow water taxi (we used ACTV) to be both tolerant of and helpful toward riders with luggage. It’s the only way to get around so it is not unusual!
How big are the suitcases? If carryons, put them in the overhead racks. If larger, put them in the larger luggage racks at either end of the car. Here's a link with photos : https://www.seat61.com/luggage-on-european-trains.htm
A private water taxi will be expensive. Most people would just take a vaporetto (the water bus). You'd get off at the Rialto stop and then walk the few blocks to your hotel. You'll cross at least 1 bridge over a side canal so I hope your suitcases aren't too big.. I'm assuming it's the Casa Alla Fenice that you're staying at.
There are two luggage storage areas in all cars. The first is the overhead racks that will hold a small backpack or carry-on bag. Sometimes, not always, there may be limited storage between two seat back that face each other creating an "A" shaped area that you might slide a bag into. The other major area is the luggage bins near the entrance to the cars. That is where most luggage goes and the only place for larger bags.
When you get off the train you will be at the edge of the grand canal. Water taxis will be available. They are expensive but handy. We always use the water buses but the taxi work well.
For luggage on train, see above comments.
For transfer from station to hotel.
Water taxi is the most expensive option, approximately 90€ ($110). Ask the taxi pilot to talpe you at the hotel Alla Fenice on RIO TERÀ DEI ASSASSINI (that is the name of the small canal, “Rio”, where the hotel is located.
If you’d rather save tons of money, take the vaporetto (water bus). The vaporetto is no. 1 and the stop closest to the hotel is S. ANGELO.
The cost of a vaporetto is 7.50€ but it is best to buy a travel card for as many days as you stay (1day, 2day, etc). The info on vaporetti fares is below.
https://europeforvisitors.com/venice/articles/venice-vaporetto-and-bus-fare-tables.htm
Thanks everyone for your quick and wonderful responses.
Ah, the Rio Terre is a filled in canal. A water taxi can get you reasonably close, but not to the door.
I took a look at the directions that were posted here, as listed on the hotel web site. I know that part of Venice quite well, and the directions are good enough for you to find the hotel without difficulty.
Taking the No 1 vaporetto from the station and a ten minute walk will save you probably seventy euro.
laurie make sure you're not confusing the water taxis (private and expensive) with the vaporettos (water buses) which are public transportation on a fixed route. People get on the vaporetto with luggage all the time.
this is a duplicate post...there are other answers on the other copy
https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/italy/water-taxi-venice
