Vaporetto in Venice: a guide to water transport for travelers

Venice metro on the water

In a city where canals are used instead of streets and boats are used instead of cars, the vaporetto becomes the main transport. These spacious river trams are a real circulatory system of Venice, allowing you to get to any point of the island part of the city and the neighboring islands of the Lagoon. In 2025, as Venice continues to struggle with excessive tourism, the ability to use a vaporetto becomes not just convenient, but a necessary skill for every guest.

What is a vaporetto and why is it important to know in Venice?

Vaporetto (from Italian. Vapor is the main type of public transport in Venice, serving as a bus, subway and ferry at the same time. In 2025, the ACTV operator will maintain a fleet of modern motor vessels, while maintaining its historical name.

Why is vaporetto better for tourists in 2025:

· Time saving: Avoids pedestrian traffic jams on narrow streets
· Accessibility: Connects all key points of the city
· Unique views: Allows you to see Venice from the best angles

Current routes in 2025: How not to get lost in the Lagoon

Main lines along the Grand Canal:

· Line 1: The “tourist Express” runs along the entire Grand Canal with stops at all the main attractions. Travel time: about 45 minutes
· Line 2: Faster route — fewer stops, ideal for fast travel
· Line N: Night route (from 23:30 to 4:30)

Circular routes around Venice:

· Lines 41/42: Full circle around the island part of Venice
· Lines 51/52: Via Cannaregio Canal and Giudecca Island

Routes to the islands:

· Line 4.1/4.2: Venice — Murano — Burano
· Line 12: Venice — Burano — Torcello — Treporti
· Line 5.1/5.2: Venice — Murano — Lido
· Line 10: Lido San Lazzaro — San Servolo

Timetable and frequency of movement in 2025

· During rush hours (8:00-10:00, 17:00-19:00): Intervals of 10-12 minutes
· Daytime: 15-20 minute intervals
· Evening time: 20-30 minute intervals
· Night flights: 30-60 minute intervals

Important! The schedule may change due to:

· Tides (acqua alta)
· Fog
· Special events
· Technical works

Tickets and fares 2025: How to save money

The main types of tickets:

· One—time ticket: €9.50 – valid for 75 minutes
· Daily ticket: €25 — unlimited trips 24 hours
· 48-hour: €35 — optimal for a weekend
· 72-hour: €45 is the best choice for a 3-day visit
· 7-day: €65 — beneficial for long stays

Important rules:

· The ticket must be activated at each boarding
· Penalty for stowaway: €60 + ticket price
· Children under 6 years old — free of charge

Insider Tips for 2025

1. Avoid rush hour: From 8:00 to 10:00 and from 17:00 to 19:00 the vaporetto is crowded
2. Proper fit: Enter through the back door, exit through the front
3. The best places: The bow — for photos, the stern — to avoid the crowd
4. Navigation: Use the official AVM Venezia app to track movement in real time

Features of 2025: What has changed

· New stops: Added marinas in less touristic areas
· Eco-friendly vessels: Part of the fleet has been converted to hybrid engines
· Smart tickets: A contactless payment system has been introduced
· Enhanced control: The number of supervisors in tourist areas has been increased

Alternatives to vaporetto

· Traghetto: Grand Canal crossing for €2
· Gondolas: From €80 for 30 minutes — for romantic walks
· Water taxi: From €15 per boarding + €2 per minute — fast but expensive

Vaporetto is the key to real Venice

In 2025, vaporetto remains the most democratic and authentic way to explore Venice. This is not just transportation, but a unique experience that allows you to see the city through the eyes of local residents.

Properly planned vaporetto trips will help you save time, money and effort, leaving more opportunities to enjoy the magic of the Venetian Lagoon.

Are you planning a trip to Venice? Save this guide — it will become your reliable assistant in navigating the waterways of the city on the water!