Venice Vaporetto Map Guide

The vaporetto is Venice's public water bus system, operated by ACTV. It's the main form of public transportation in the city, connecting all major areas of Venice and the lagoon islands. Our Venice vaporetto map shows all the key stops and routes you'll need for your visit.

Vaporetto Ticket Prices (2024)

• Single trip: €9.50 (75 minutes)
• 24-hour pass: €25
• 48-hour pass: €35
• 72-hour pass: €45
• 7-day pass: €65
Venice residents and Rolling Venice card holders receive discounts.

Main Vaporetto Lines

The Venice vaporetto network consists of several lines serving different routes. Here are the most important ones for tourists:

1

Line 1 - Grand Canal (All Stops)

Route: Piazzale Roma → Ferrovia → Grand Canal → San Marco → Lido

Duration: 45-50 minutes

Best for: Sightseeing along the Grand Canal

2

Line 2 - Grand Canal Express

Route: Piazzale Roma → San Marco → Giudecca → Lido

Duration: 25-30 minutes

Best for: Faster journeys along the canal

4.1/4.2

Lines 4.1 & 4.2 - Circular

Route: Circular route around Venice + Murano

Duration: Full loop 90+ minutes

Best for: Reaching Murano from various points

12

Line 12 - Islands Route

Route: Fondamente Nove → Murano → Burano → Torcello

Duration: 40-50 min to Burano

Best for: Day trips to the islands

5.1/5.2

Lines 5.1 & 5.2 - Express Circular

Route: Circular express around Venice

Duration: Full loop 60+ minutes

Best for: Quick trips to Lido or Murano

N

Line N - Night Service

Route: Limited night service covering main routes

Hours: After regular service ends

Best for: Late night transport

Major Vaporetto Stops

Our Venice vaporetto map highlights all stops, but these are the most important hubs:

  • Piazzale Roma - Terminal for buses and cars, starting point for Lines 1, 2, 4, 5, 6
  • Ferrovia (Santa Lucia) - Train station, major transfer point
  • Rialto - Central Venice, Grand Canal, Lines 1, 2
  • San Marco (Vallaresso/San Zaccaria) - Tourist center, multiple lines
  • Fondamente Nove - Gateway to Murano, Burano, Torcello
  • Accademia - Art museum district, Lines 1, 2

Pro Tips for Using the Vaporetto

• Buy a travel pass if you'll take 3+ trips per day
• Line 1 is scenic but slow - take Line 2 if you're in a hurry
• Stand at the front or back for the best views
• Validate your ticket every time you board
• Download the ACTV VeneziaUnica app for real-time schedules

Getting to the Islands

The vaporetto is the only way to reach Venice's famous islands:

  • Murano: Take Line 3, 4.1, 4.2, or 12 from Fondamente Nove (15-20 min)
  • Burano: Take Line 12 from Fondamente Nove via Murano (40-45 min)
  • Torcello: Take Line 12 to Burano, then Line 9 (50 min total)
  • Lido: Take Line 1, 2, 5.1, 5.2, or 6 from San Marco (15-20 min)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a vaporetto?
A vaporetto (plural: vaporetti) is a water bus used for public transportation in Venice. The name comes from the Italian word for "steam" as they were originally steam-powered. Today's vaporetti are motorized boats that carry passengers along fixed routes through Venice's canals and lagoon.
Which vaporetto line is best for sightseeing?
Line 1 is the best for sightseeing as it travels the entire length of the Grand Canal, stopping at every stop. This gives you amazing views of palaces and bridges. The journey takes about 45 minutes from Piazzale Roma to San Marco.
How often do vaporetti run?
During the day, main lines run every 10-20 minutes. Line 1 and 2 are the most frequent. After midnight, the night service (Line N) operates with reduced frequency, typically every 30-60 minutes.
Where can I buy vaporetto tickets?
Tickets are available at ACTV ticket offices, automated machines at major stops, tobacco shops (tabacchi), and online through the VeneziaUnica website. You can also buy tickets via the ACTV app. Major stops like Piazzale Roma and Ferrovia have staffed ticket offices.