Venice Water Bus Guide
The Venice water bus (vaporetto) is the city's primary public transportation system, operated by ACTV. These motorized boats run on fixed routes throughout Venice's canals and to the lagoon islands. Our water bus map shows all the stops you need to navigate the city.
Water Bus vs. Water Taxi
Water Bus (Vaporetto): Public transport, fixed routes, €9.50/trip or day passes available. Shared with other passengers.
Water Taxi: Private boats, go anywhere, starting around €60-100. Faster but much more expensive.
Water Bus Ticket Options
ACTV offers several ticket types for tourists:
Single Trip
Price: €9.50
Valid: 75 minutes
Includes unlimited transfers within validity period
24-Hour Pass
Price: €25
Best for: 3+ trips in a day
Unlimited travel from first validation
48-Hour Pass
Price: €35
Best for: Short trips with island visits
Unlimited travel for 2 days
72-Hour Pass
Price: €45
Best for: Extended stays
Unlimited travel for 3 days
7-Day Pass
Price: €65
Best for: Week-long visits
Best value for longer stays
Rolling Venice (ages 6-29)
Price: €6 for card + €33 for 72hr pass
Best for: Young travelers
Significant discounts on transport
Key Water Bus Routes
Here are the most useful water bus routes for tourists:
- Line 1: The scenic route - travels the entire Grand Canal stopping at every stop. Best for sightseeing.
- Line 2: Faster Grand Canal service with fewer stops. Good for getting around quickly.
- Line 4.1/4.2: Circular routes around Venice and to Murano. 4.1 goes counterclockwise, 4.2 clockwise.
- Line 5.1/5.2: Express circular routes including service to Lido and Murano.
- Line 12: The island route - connects Venice to Murano, Mazzorbo, Burano, and Torcello.
- Line N: Night service operating after regular hours (limited routes).
Major Water Bus Stops
Our map highlights all stops, but these are the most important hubs:
- Piazzale Roma: Bus/car terminal, all main lines
- Ferrovia: Train station (Santa Lucia), all main lines
- Rialto: Central Venice, Lines 1, 2
- San Marco Vallaresso/San Zaccaria: Tourist center, most lines
- Fondamente Nove: Gateway to Murano, Burano, Torcello
- Accademia: Museum district, Lines 1, 2
- Zattere: Dorsoduro waterfront, Lines 2, 5.1, 5.2, 6
Water Bus Tips
• Always validate your ticket at the yellow machine before boarding
• Stand near the doors if getting off soon - boats can be crowded
• Front and back positions offer the best views
• Check the direction - same stop can have boats going opposite ways
• Download the ACTV app for real-time schedules
Airport Water Bus (Alilaguna)
Alilaguna operates water buses between Marco Polo Airport and Venice:
- Blue Line: Airport → Murano → Fondamente Nove → San Marco → Cruise Terminal
- Orange Line: Airport → Madonna dell'Orto → Rialto → San Marco
- Red Line: Airport → Murano → Lido (summer only)
Note: Alilaguna tickets are separate from ACTV passes. Single journey €15, round trip €27.