Trains to Venice

Taking the Train to Venice

All aboard the Venice Vaporetto, where the streets are water-filled, and the buses float! Venice, the city where maps are merely suggestions, is where you can get lost among the canals and still find yourself sipping on a spritz by sunset.

At the heart of Venice is St. Mark's Basilica, a crown jewel of Italo-Byzantine architecture, presiding over the bustling Piazza San Marco. The city's districts, or sestieri, each offer their unique slice of Venetian life. The Rialto Bridge is not just a crossing point; it's a marketplace, a meeting place, and a catwalk for pigeons with attitude.
Venice is a monument to the Republic of Venice's former wealth and power. A gondola ride through the Grand Canal offers a glimpse into the city's soul, where historic palazzos line the water's edge, each with a story. Venice is a city of visual storytelling, where every turn brings a new scene, a unique chance to say, "I'm going to need more memory cards for my camera."

Venice on a Budget

Trenitalia and Italo connect Italy's regions with a network that makes train travel to Florence accessible and scenic. Discounts on travel packages to Venice are often available, making it economical for tourists to immerse themselves in the city's rich tapestry of art and history. Special fares for youth and seniors by both train companies ensure that travelers of all ages can enjoy the wonders of Venice. Group discounts can make the journey more affordable, and seasonal promotions may reduce the cost of train tickets even further.

Accommodations in Venice present a delightful paradox: the chance to stay in historic buildings at prices that defy their grandiose facades. The neighborhoods of Cannaregio and Dorsoduro, less trodden by the tourist masses, offer a genuine slice of Venetian life and more wallet-friendly lodging options.

Culinary exploration in Venice doesn't have to mean a lavish meal with a view of the Grand Canal. Instead, follow the local tradition of Cicchetti, delightful small plates that allow you to graze your way through Venetian flavors without the hefty price tag. These morsels can be found in the Bacari, the unassuming wine bar where the city's residents go to unwind.

Navigating the city's canals and alleyways is made easy with the ACTV public transport system. Investing in a travel card like the Venezia Unica pass can be a cost-effective way to hop on and off the Vaporettos as you please, offering a picturesque commute unlike any other.

To truly dine like a Venetian without the tourist price tag, it pays to wander off the beaten path. The residential areas of the city are sprinkled with trattorias and cafes where you can indulge in authentic Venetian cuisine at prices that are gentle in your pocket.

Timing is everything, and a visit during the shoulder seasons can see a significant drop in accommodation prices. Many of Venice's most iconic experiences, from strolling through its labyrinthine streets to crossing its storied bridges, don't cost a thing.

When eating, follow the local custom of standing at a bar for your morning coffee and selecting house wines with your meals. These simple choices will keep your budget in check while you immerse yourself in the Venetian way of life.

A Perfect Day in Venice

Embarking on a perfect day in Venice, you'd begin where the water kisses the steps of the city at the Santa Lucia train station. Here, the Grand Canal unfurls like a watery red carpet, and a hop onto the Vaporetto Line 1 offers a floating introduction to the city's splendor, with a stop at the iconic Rialto Bridge. This isn't just any bridge; it's a bustling bazaar in the sky where you can haggle for souvenirs or snap a postcard-perfect canal shot.

Next, let your feet guide you to the heart of Venice, St. Mark's Square, where the Basilica di San Marco glitters like a Byzantine dream. This isn't just a church; it's a vault of history, dripping with golden mosaics and whispers of Venice's lavish past. A stone's throw away, the Doge's Palace stands as a testament to Venetian might, its walls echoing with the secrets of dukes and diplomats.

By now, your stomach might grow louder than the lions of St. Mark. Stroll over to the artsy Dorsoduro district, a mere walk from the square, where cicchetti bars and osterias serve Venetian fare without the St. Mark's markup. Here, you can indulge in the local custom of hopping from one eatery to another, sampling bite-sized delights.

With your appetite sated, wander to the Gallerie dell'Accademia, just a bridge away, where the soul of Venice is captured on canvas. From the vibrant hues of Bellini to the dramatic scenes of Tintoretto, this gallery is a silent symphony of Venetian artistry.

As the afternoon light turns golden, catch a vaporetto from the nearby Zattere stop to the island of Giudecca. Here, the cityscape across the water is a living canvas, and the sunset is a daily masterpiece, best viewed with a spritz from the terrace of a waterfront bar.

As dusk embraces Venice, drift back to the mainland and meander to the Cannaregio district. This neighborhood, a short Vaporetto ride away, is a slice of real Venice. Here, in the shadow of the Madonna dell'Orto church, trattorias tucked away in the folds of the city offer up plates of seafood risotto and the lullabies of lapping water.

And what better way to end your Venetian day than with a gelato in hand, strolling along the moonlit canals? Each bridge and reflection tells a story, and every gelato flavor is a sweet note in the symphony of your Venetian memories.

But wait, there's more! Suppose your feet are still itching for adventure. Why not take a moonlit walk to the hauntingly beautiful Scala Contarini del Bovolo, a hidden spiral staircase that offers a nocturnal view of the city unlike any other? Or, for a touch of the macabre, a quick Vaporetto ride to the island of San Michele lets you wander a cemetery island that is as eerie as it is serene.

And if you're a night owl, the Vaporetto runs all night, so you can even venture out to the Lido island for a late-night beach stroll, where the sands whisper tales of the Venice Film Festival stars who once walked here.

Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors to Venice

For those new to Venice, the city is easily navigable on foot or by water. The Venezia Unica City Pass offers access to many museums and public transport. Authentic gelato from a local shop is a must-try, and while pizza may not be Venice's specialty, its seafood certainly is. For shopping, look beyond the tourist souvenirs and seek out local artisan shops. Museums are less crowded during weekdays, and carrying cash is advisable for smaller shops and market purchases. With these tips, visitors can enjoy the rich tapestry of Venice's history, art, and cuisine.

Ready for your Venetian journey? Virail can help you find the best transportation options to Venice, comparing routes and prices to ensure your travel is as efficient as possible. Start planning your trip with Virail today and prepare to immerse yourself in the wonders of Venice.

Show full description

Popular train routes to Venice

Discover popular train routes to Venice and book the cheapest train ticket in no time

Popular routesAverage journey durationLowest priceTickets
Palermo - Venice18 hr 7 min$30.69Book
Cosenza - Venice11 hr 39 min$39.51Book
Catania - Venice16 hr 57 min$42.90Book
Treviglio - Venice2 hr 47 min$19.71Book
Termoli - Venice6 hr 55 min$54.60Book
Pisa - Venice5 hr 14 min$19.80Book
Peschiera del Garda - Venice1 hr 43 min$10.16Book
Oulx - Venice5 hr 43 min$41.88Book
Ferrara - Venice1 hr 22 min$10.57Book
Bologna - Venice1 hr 40 min$9.13Book

Train tickets to Venice

Select departure and find the best deals on train tickets to Venice.

Find the best day to travel to Venice by train

When travelling to Venice by train, if you want to avoid crowds you can check how frequently our customers are travelling in the next 30-days using the graph below. On average, the peak hours to travel are between 6:30am and 9am in the morning, or between 4pm and 7pm in the evening. Please keep this in mind when travelling to your point of departure as you may need some extra time to arrive, particularly in big cities!

Carriers on this route

Find out more about the carriers on this route.

Eurocity (EC) trains are specifically designed for short and long-distance travel, connecting major cities in various European countries as part of the extensive international train services. Eurocity (EC) trains are operated by a range of national railway companies across Europe, including Deutsche Bahn (Germany), SNCF (France), Trenitalia (Italy), SBB (Switzerland), and ÖBB (Austria). The Eurocity (EC) service offers regular schedules and convenient connections between prominent cities like Paris, Berlin, Milan, and Vienna.

FlixBus, a long-distance bus company, operates in both Europe and the United States. Founded in 2013, it has grown to become one of the largest bus operators in Europe, connecting over 2,500 destinations in 30 countries. Originating in Germany, FlixBus has expanded quickly to neighboring countries including France, Italy, Denmark, the Netherlands, and Croatia, while also offering regular services to Norway, Spain, and England. With affordable fares and comfortable amenities such as free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and onboard toilets, FlixBus provides a convenient and enjoyable travel experience.

Frecciargento is a high-speed train service operated by Trenitalia, the national railway company of Italy. The name "Frecciargento" means "silver arrow" in Italian, and the trains are known for their sleek, modern design and fast speeds. Frecciargento trains run on high-speed lines and conventional lines, connecting major cities across Italy, including Rome, Verona, Milan, Venice, Florence, and Naples. Frecciargento is one of several high-speed train services offered by Trenitalia, including Frecciarossa and Frecciabianca.

Frecciarossa, operated by Trenitalia, the national railway company, is a renowned high-speed train service in Italy. FRECCIAROSSA trains, reaching speeds of up to 300 km/h, connect major cities including Rome, Milan, Naples, Florence, and Turin.

Italo, a subsidiary of the Italian railway company Nuovo Trasporto Viaggiatori (NTV), operates a high-speed train service throughout Italy. The 2012 launch of Italo trains, which are both conventional and high-speed, provides travelers with speedy and comfortable travel across Italy. The 300 km/h speed ensures regular and comfortable transportation to major cities like Rome, Naples, Florence, and Milan.

Ferrovie dello Stato Italiane is the owner of Trenitalia, which serves as the main train operator in Italy. The high-speed Frecciarossa trains link Milan, Rome, Naples, Florence, and Turin at speeds of up to 300 km/h (186 mph). Frecciargento and Frecciabianca are two other high-speed services that operate at slightly slower rates but provide connectivity to smaller cities and towns. Trenitalia operates regional and intercity train, and provides international connections to neighboring countries through EuroCity trains.

While not as swift as the high-speed ICE trains, Deutsche Bahn’s InterCity trains boast speeds up to 200km/h, offering spacious carriages and dining options. Operating across numerous German routes, such as Cologne-Hamburg, these trains also extend to international destinations, including Amsterdam and Luxembourg. Some routes even feature double-deck trains.

Ticket types and facilities from to Venice

Compare the different ticket types and the facilities provided by EuroCity, Frecciargento and Frecciarossa when traveling to Venice.

Second Class

With Deutsche Bahn's Eurocity trains, a second-class ticket guarantees you a more affordable journey. Throughout your trip, you can access basic facilities like electrical outlets, air conditioning, and a bar carriage.
wifi WiFi
power_sockets Power sockets
luggage Luggage
accessibility Accessibility
food_and_drink Food and drink
air_con Air conditioning
bicycle Bicycle

First Class

If you wish to elevate your travel experience in a quieter place with additional services such as adjustable seats, more legroom, catering service, and seat selection, you can opt for the first-class tickets on Deutsche Bahn's Eurocity trains.
wifi WiFi
power_sockets Power sockets
luggage Luggage
accessibility Accessibility
food_and_drink Food and drink
air_con Air conditioning
bicycle Bicycle

Second Class

In Frecciargento's Standard Class, you can spend time on the FRECCE Portal, enjoy a comfortable journey in adjustable seats, charge your devices using electrical outlets, and taste delicious food and drinks at the FrecciaBistrò bar.
wifi WiFi
power_sockets Power sockets
luggage Luggage
accessibility Accessibility
food_and_drink Food and drink
air_con Air conditioning
bicycle Bicycle

First Class

In Frecciargento's First Class, you'll enjoy all the amenities found in Second Class plus more spacious and comfortable seats. Additionally, you'll be treated to complimentary snacks and a small welcome drink of either coffee or prosecco.
wifi WiFi
power_sockets Power sockets
luggage Luggage
accessibility Accessibility
food_and_drink Food and drink
air_con Air conditioning
bicycle Bicycle

Premium

Premium service includes a wider seat, more legroom, and access to additional amenities such as a welcome drink and a choice of newspapers. Coach 4 on the Frecciarossa 1000 train is reserved for the Premium level.
wifi WiFi
power_sockets Power sockets
luggage Luggage
accessibility Accessibility
food_and_drink Food and drink
air_con Air conditioning
bicycle Bicycle

Standard

Standard is the basic level of service and includes a comfortable seat and access to basic onboard services. Coaches 5-8 are for the Standard level with seats covered in gray eco-leather.
wifi WiFi
power_sockets Power sockets
luggage Luggage
accessibility Accessibility
food_and_drink Food and drink
air_con Air conditioning
bicycle Bicycle

Executive

Executive is the highest level of service and includes all of the amenities of the Business level, as well as a personal entertainment system, and gourmet meals served by a dedicated onboard chef.
wifi WiFi
power_sockets Power sockets
luggage Luggage
accessibility Accessibility
food_and_drink Food and drink
air_con Air conditioning
bicycle Bicycle

Business

Business service is designed for business travelers and includes all of the amenities of the Premium level, as well as access to a dedicated Business Lounge and priority boarding. Coaches 2 and 3 of Frecciarossa 1000 are reserved for the Business level of service.
wifi WiFi
quiet_zone Quiet zone
power_sockets Power sockets
luggage Luggage
accessibility Accessibility
food_and_drink Food and drink
air_con Air conditioning
bicycle Bicycle

Smart

With the Smart ambiance, experience all the comforts and services of Italo at an affordable price.
wifi WiFi
power_sockets Power sockets
luggage Luggage
accessibility Accessibility
food_and_drink Food and drink
air_con Air conditioning

Prima

Experience the best of Italo with the Prima ambiance, providing you with maximum comfort and top-notch services for your entire journey.
wifi WiFi
power_sockets Power sockets
luggage Luggage
accessibility Accessibility
food_and_drink Food and drink
air_con Air conditioning

Club Executive

For an even more luxurious and relaxing trip, opt for the Club Ambiance. Here, you'll delight in ultimate comfort and pampering with spacious individual seating arrangements.
wifi WiFi
power_sockets Power sockets
luggage Luggage
accessibility Accessibility
food_and_drink Food and drink
air_con Air conditioning

Second Class

On SBB Intercity trains, in addition to basic amenities for Second Class ticket, there's a Family Zone specially designed to offer comfort for families with children. If you get hungry during the journey, you can enjoy tasty meals in the restaurant carriage.
wifi WiFi
power_sockets Power sockets
luggage Luggage
accessibility Accessibility
food_and_drink Food and drink
air_con Air conditioning
bicycle Bicycle

First Class

In the First Class of SBB Intercity, you can benefit from personal power socket, more comfortable seats, and larger luggage space. Some IC trains also offer quiet zones and business areas.
wifi WiFi
quiet_zone Quiet zone
power_sockets Power sockets
luggage Luggage
accessibility Accessibility
food_and_drink Food and drink
air_con Air conditioning
bicycle Bicycle

Facility Description

Find out more about the different facilities available onboard with each carrier on this route.

power_sockets Power sockets open icon close icon
DB's EC trains feature recently updated coaches equipped with power sockets.
wifi WiFi open icon close icon
Deutsche Bahn is progressively adding free WiFi to their EC trains.
luggage Luggage open icon close icon
On DB Eurocity trains, you can bring any amount of luggage without restrictions. Store small bags either in the overhead racks or beneath your seats. For bigger luggage items, use the racks found in the compartments or close to the exterior doors.
accessibility Accessibility open icon close icon
The Mobility Service assists with boarding, disembarking, and train transitions. Additionally, the staff is ready to address any inquiries or provide support to ensure a smooth journey.
food_and_drink Food and drink open icon close icon
On EC trains, dine in the onboard restaurant or grab a quick bite from the bistro. First Class passengers receive complimentary meals at their seat. DB provides diverse, locally-sourced food options, including vegetarian and vegan choices.
air_con Air conditioning open icon close icon
DB's EC trains now boast modernized carriages with air conditioning.
wifi WiFi open icon close icon
On Frecciargento trains, free WiFi is available. Use their Portale FRECCE service to watch movies, TV, and catch up on news. It also provides travel updates and additional booking options.
power_sockets Power sockets open icon close icon
Every seat comes with its power socket to keep your devices charged.
luggage Luggage open icon close icon
On Frecciargento trains, you won't face any restrictions on the amount of luggage you can bring on board. You can easily stow small bags and items in overhead racks or under your seat, while larger suitcases can be placed in the luggage racks situated in the compartments or close to the exterior doors.
accessibility Accessibility open icon close icon
Special assistance is a call away for those who require it. Dial the toll-free 800 90 60 60 from Italian landlines or the international number +3902323232 from any phone, including from abroad.
food_and_drink Food and drink open icon close icon
On Frecciargento trains, the FrecciaBistrò café-bar offers snacks, meals, and drinks. Use the Portale FRECCE portal for easy in-seat ordering or approach the staff. First Class travelers enjoy complimentary water, coffee, and a snack choice.
air_con Air conditioning open icon close icon
No matter the weather outside, stay comfortably cool with onboard air-conditioning.
bicycle Bicycle open icon close icon
Folding bikes are allowed as hand luggage, while non-folding bikes need to be disassembled and placed in travel cases shown to the conductor or platform staff before boarding, and stowed in a specific part of the train.
wifi WiFi open icon close icon
On Frecciarossa trains, free WiFi is available. Use their Portale FRECCE service to watch movies, TV, and catch up on news. It also provides travel updates and additional booking options.
quiet_zone Quiet zone open icon close icon
Seek serenity? Frecciarossa offers designated quiet zones for Business Class to ensure a peaceful journey, free from distractions.
power_sockets Power sockets open icon close icon
No matter the model – be it ETR 500, ETR 600, ETR 700, or ETR 1000 – every seat comes with its power socket to keep your devices charged.
luggage Luggage open icon close icon
On Frecciarossa trains, you won't face any restrictions on the amount of luggage you can bring on board. You can easily stow small bags and items in overhead racks or under your seat, while larger suitcases can be placed in the luggage racks situated in the compartments or close to the exterior doors.
accessibility Accessibility open icon close icon
Special assistance is a call away for those who require it. Dial the toll-free 800 90 60 60 from Italian landlines or the international number +3902323232 from any phone, including from abroad.
food_and_drink Food and drink open icon close icon
Satiate your hunger at the FrecciaBistrò, stationed at the train's center. Or, for added convenience, order directly to your seat through the Portale FRECCE's EasyBistrò. Premium and Business Class travelers receive complimentary snacks and drinks, while Executive Class passengers delight in gourmet meals curated by chef Carlo Cracc.
air_con Air conditioning open icon close icon
No matter the weather outside, stay comfortably cool with onboard air-conditioning.
bicycle Bicycle open icon close icon
Folding bikes are allowed as hand luggage, while non-folding bikes need to be disassembled and placed in travel cases shown to the conductor or platform staff before boarding, and stowed in a specific part of the train.
wifi WiFi open icon close icon
Italo trains come equipped with free WiFi and the ItaloLive entertainment portal, featuring an array of movies, shows, news, and more.
power_sockets Power sockets open icon close icon
All Italo trains provide power sockets at each seat.
luggage Luggage open icon close icon
Your train ticket comes with a luggage allowance, which you need to store in specified areas on Italo trains. In Smart ambience coaches, there's a size limit, so ensure your luggage doesn't exceed 75 x 53 x 30 cm. Adhering to these guidelines helps you avoid any penalties.
accessibility Accessibility open icon close icon
For travelers with reduced mobility, Italo trains have priority seating located near an accessible restroom, which includes tactile and Braille signage.
food_and_drink Food and drink open icon close icon
On Italo trains, while there's no dedicated dining carriage, vending machines in Coaches 3 and 7 (AGV trains) or Coaches 3 and 6 (EVO trains) offer snacks and drinks. Prima Ambience passengers receive a complimentary Welcome Service with a variety of snacks and beverages served at their seat. For an even more luxurious experience, Club Executive Ambience travelers enjoy an exclusive onboard catering service with espresso, pastries, and drinks delivered by attentive staff.
air_con Air conditioning open icon close icon
All Italo trains are equipped with air-conditioning.
bicycle Bicycle open icon close icon
Prams, pushchairs, and folding bicycles are considered standard luggage and should be stored in designated spaces on Italo trains. Oversized luggage and standard bicycles are not allowed. We recommend protecting your bicycle with a cover.
wifi WiFi open icon close icon
Deutsche Bahn is rolling out free WiFi on their IC trains, with some already offering the service.
power_sockets Power sockets open icon close icon
All seats in both classes have power sockets on DB IC trains.
luggage Luggage open icon close icon
On IC trains, you can bring any amount of luggage without restrictions. Store small bags either in the overhead racks or beneath your seats. For bigger luggage items, use the racks found in the compartments or close to the exterior doors.
accessibility Accessibility open icon close icon
Deutsche Bahn's Mobility Service provides assistance for boarding, disembarking, and train transfers. Staff are on hand to address questions and ensure a smooth trip.
food_and_drink Food and drink open icon close icon
On the DB IC trains, there's a restaurant for meals or a bistro for snacks. You can eat at the bistro or in your seat. First Class passengers get free food at their seat. The menu changes but always has local food, including vegetarian and vegan choices.
air_con Air conditioning open icon close icon
Intercity trains have air-conditioned sections.
bicycle Bicycle open icon close icon
For IC trains, a ticket and reservation are required for bicycles, with the reservation cost included. Bikes are typically stored in second class carriages, though your seat may be elsewhere.

Eco-Friendly Travel: Making a Greener Choice - Venice

From choosing green cities and sustainable transport options, we guide you through the details of reducing your carbon footprint while exploring the globe

  • Air quality
    30
    Good
  • Renewable energy
    44%
    Moderate
  • Green spaces
    0%
    Low
  • Total score
    47
    Moderate
Rank Cities Air quality Energy Green spaces Total score
1 Cosenza 54 44 153 74
2 Palermo 61 44 106 73
3 Catania 73 44 113 66
4 Bologna 45 44 98 64
5 Pisa 39 44 103 55
6 Ferrara 68 44 107 52
7 Peschiera del Garda 30 44 - 47
8 Oulx 30 44 - 47
9 Termoli 51 44 - 41
10 Treviglio 110 44 - 37
Cheap train tickets to Venice
Looking for the best deal on a train ticket for your trip? Here are 4 ways to get cheap train tickets to Venice.

Book in advance and save

If you're looking for the best deal for your trip to Venice, booking train tickets in advance is a great way to save money, but keep in mind that advance tickets are usually not available until 3 months before your travel date.

Stay flexible with your travel time and explore off-peak journeys

Planning your trips around off-peak travel times not only means that you'll be able to avoid the crowds, but can also end up saving you money. Being flexible with your schedule and considering alternative routes or times will significantly impact the amount of money you spend on getting from to Venice.

Always check special offers

Checking on the latest deals can help save a lot of money, making it worth taking the time to browse and compare prices. So make sure you get the best deal on your ticket and take advantage of special fares for children, youth and seniors as well as discounts for groups.

Unlock the potential of slower trains or connecting trains

If you're planning a trip with some flexible time, why not opt for the scenic route? Taking slower trains or connecting trains that make more stops may save you money on your ticket – definitely worth considering if it fits in your schedule.