What’s the Fastest Transportation from Venice Airport to Your Hotel in the City Centre?

Venice is one of the most unique cities in the world—and that includes how you get around. After landing at Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE), you won’t find metros or typical car taxis waiting to whisk you into the city. Instead, your journey starts with choosing the right transportation from Venice airport to hotel—and if speed matters to you, not all options are equal.

In this post, we’ll break down the fastest ways to get from the airport to your hotel in Venice city centre, so you can start enjoying the canals, cafes, and charming alleys with minimal delay.

1. Private Water Taxi – Fastest & Most Direct

Without a doubt, the fastest transportation from Venice airport to hotel—especially if you're staying near a canal—is a private water taxi. These sleek boats pick you up at the airport’s dock and take you straight to a canal close to your hotel. No transfers, no crowds, and minimal walking.

Travel time: ~25–35 minutes

Cost: Around €100–€130 (per boat, not per person)

Best for: Small groups, couples with luggage, luxury travelers

It’s more expensive than other options, but the convenience and speed are unmatched. And let’s face it—gliding into Venice by boat feels like something straight out of a movie.

2. Alilaguna Water Bus – Direct, but Slower

If you’re looking for a balance between cost and efficiency, the Alilaguna water bus is a good option. It’s a public water transport service that connects the airport to several stops in Venice, including San Marco, Rialto, and Fondamente Nove.

Travel time: 60–75 minutes (depending on the line and your stop)

Cost: ~€15 per person

Best for: Budget travelers, solo tourists, light packers

It’s not the fastest, but if your hotel is close to a main stop, it can still be fairly efficient.

 3. Land Taxi + Vaporetto (Public Ferry)

Another option is to take a land taxi from the airport to Piazzale Roma, the last point where vehicles are allowed. From there, you can catch a vaporetto (public water bus) to your hotel.

Travel time: 60–90 minutes

Cost: Taxi €40–€50 + Vaporetto €9.50

Best for: Travelers staying far from main water taxi routes, or looking to split costs

It’s not the fastest transportation from Venice airport to hotel, but it works if you want a more budget-conscious route with some flexibility.

Bonus Tip: Consider Walking (if Close Enough)

If your hotel is near Piazzale Roma or Santa Lucia Train Station, it might be fastest to walk the final stretch—especially during peak hours when boats are slower. Some hotels are only a 5–10 minute walk from the vaporetto stop.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to transportation from Venice airport to hotel, your best option depends on your priorities. If speed and convenience are your top concerns, a private water taxi is by far the fastest and most direct way to reach your hotel in Venice city centre. It gets you there quickly, with minimal transfers, and delivers that iconic "Venice arrival" experience.

However, for those who don’t mind a bit more time and want to save money, the Alilaguna water bus or a land taxi + vaporetto combo can also get you there reliably.

Whichever option you choose, planning ahead ensures a smooth start to your Venetian adventure.