Hotels near Marco Polo Airport
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About Marco Polo Airport
Marco Polo Airport is the main international gateway to Venice, Italy, situated on the mainland shore of the Venetian Lagoon near the town of Tessera, approximately 13 kilometres north of Venice's historic centre. Named after the famous Venetian explorer, it serves millions of passengers each year and connects the floating city to destinations across Europe and beyond.
Getting to Venice from the Airport
The airport's location on the lagoon edge gives travellers a distinctive choice of transfer options. The most iconic is the Alilaguna water bus service, which crosses the lagoon directly to Venice, with stops including San Marco, Murano, and the Lido — a scenic introduction to the city's canal-based transport. Private water taxis offer a faster, more direct route to Venice's waterways. For those preferring land transport, ACTV and ATVO buses connect the airport to Piazzale Roma, Venice's main road terminus, in around 20 minutes. Taxis and car hire are also available for travel to Mestre and the mainland.
Airport Facilities and Orientation
Marco Polo Airport operates from a single passenger terminal with two floors handling departures and arrivals. The facility includes duty-free retail, restaurants, currency exchange, and left-luggage storage. Check-in desks and security are on the upper level, while arrivals, ground transport, and the water bus dock are accessible from the lower level. Airlines including Alitalia successors, Ryanair, easyJet, and several major European carriers operate routes through the airport.
Practical Tips
- Water bus vs. land bus: The Alilaguna water bus takes around 75 minutes to San Marco but offers lagoon views; the bus to Piazzale Roma takes roughly 20 minutes and costs less.
- Book water taxis in advance during peak season to avoid long queues.
- Validate your bus ticket before boarding ACTV services to avoid fines.
- Allow extra time during summer months, as the airport experiences high passenger volumes.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Marco Polo Airport from Venice city centre?
Marco Polo Airport is approximately 13 kilometres from Venice's historic centre. Travel time varies by transport mode: around 20 minutes by bus to Piazzale Roma, or roughly 75 minutes by Alilaguna water bus to San Marco.
Can I travel directly by water from the airport to Venice?
Yes. The Alilaguna public water bus service departs from a dock adjacent to the terminal and crosses the Venetian Lagoon to multiple stops including San Marco, Fondamente Nove, and the Lido. Private water taxis also operate from the same dock.
Which airlines fly into Marco Polo Airport?
Marco Polo Airport is served by a range of European and international carriers, including Ryanair, easyJet, Lufthansa, Air France, and various charter operators. The route network covers major European hubs as well as some long-haul destinations.
Is Marco Polo Airport close to landmarks like St. Mark's Basilica or the Doge's Palace?
The airport is on the mainland, so iconic Venice landmarks such as St. Mark's Basilica, the Doge's Palace, and the Bridge of Sighs require a lagoon crossing. The Alilaguna water bus to San Marco stops near these attractions, making it a convenient option for visitors heading directly to the historic centre.
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