Summary
Viale Galileo Galilei, 30, 30173 Venezia VE, Italy
Phone: +39 041 260 9260
Marco Polo Airport in Venice
Marco Polo Airport, the third busiest airport in Italy, serves over 13 million travelers annually, connecting them to Venice’s iconic canals and Byzantine-influenced architecture. This airport links not only to major European cities such as Frankfurt, Paris, Istanbul, and Amsterdam, but it also caters to daily flights from the United Kingdom and long-haul journeys from North America and the Middle East.
Inaugurated in 2017, the new terminal exhibits a contemporary design characterized by a dramatic grid shell roof that filters sunlight into the halls. This modern architectural marvel also features cutting-edge security systems for passenger safety.
To enhance your travel experience, this guide to Marco Polo Airport includes essential details on transportation, dining, shopping, and access to the historic city center. Familiarize yourself with the airport’s layout to ensure a smooth start to your Venice adventure.
Marco Polo Airport Fast Facts:
- Airport Code: VCE
- Location: Viale Galileo Galilei, 30173 Venice
- Phone: (+39) 041 260 9260
- Terminals: One
- Major commercial airlines include Alitalia, Air Canada, Air France, British Airways, Delta, Emirates, Lufthansa, Qatar, and United Airlines.
- Low-cost carriers include Ryan Air, EasyJet, and Vueling.
- Website: https://www.veniceairport.it/en/
- Flight information
- Airport map
Know Before You Go
Marco Polo Airport features a single terminal across three levels, allowing for easy navigation. The arrivals area is located on the ground floor, while departure gates are situated on the first floor (or second floor as referred to in the US). Departure gates are divided for EU and non-EU flights. Baggage claim and ground transportation options are on the ground floor, and the second floor houses VIP lounges and a business center.
Parking
At the Airport: Marco Polo Airport offers various parking options, including short-term covered and long-term uncovered parking lots, all within a one to five-minute walk from the terminal. Please refer to the Parking Map.
In Venice: Note that cars are not allowed in Venice itself. The nearest parking facility is at Piazzale Roma. Alternatively, you can park at Tronchetto, a man-made island in the Venetian Lagoon, which is well-connected to Venice via vaporetto or bus services. For an economical choice, consider parking at Fusina or San Giuliano near mainland Mestre.
Public Transportation
Located approximately 8 miles (10 kilometers) from Venice, Marco Polo Airport provides various transportation options to fit different budgets:
Bus: The ATVO bus to Piazzale Roma offers an affordable and practical choice for entering Venice. Alternatively, the ACTV public bus No. 5 is another economical option, with coaches departing approximately every 30 minutes.
Vaporetto (waterbus): Alilaguna provides a fun water transportation service to Venice, Murano, and the Lido. Boats operate regularly from 6 am until midnight, with a travel time of about an hour, stopping at key points, including Piazza San Marco.
Water taxis: While water taxis offer quicker transit compared to vaporetto rides, they come with a substantially higher price. Some drivers may charge extra, especially during nighttime. To mitigate costs, consider sharing a ride with fellow travelers.
Land taxis: In Italy, taxis must be booked at official stands, located in front of the arrivals area. The journey to town takes about 15 minutes, leading you to Piazzale Roma.
Airport Services
Marco Polo Airport provides standard facilities such as a tourist information kiosk, post office, currency exchange, car rental, luggage deposit services, and a smoking lounge. ATMs, known as bancomats in Italy, are conveniently placed throughout the terminal, with most accepting international bank cards. However, it is advisable to check with your bank prior to departure.
Additional amenities and features available in Marco Polo Airport’s terminal include:
Eat & Drink: The airport boasts a variety of restaurants, cafes, and wine bars where travelers can enjoy quick snacks, cocktails, or sit-down meals.
Shopping: Visitors can explore over 30 retail stores, ranging from luxury brands like Max Mara and Bulgari to popular chains such as Diesel and Pandora. The airport also features a large Duty-Free store and a spacious souvenir store for all your last-minute gift needs.
Airport lounges: Marco Polo Club VIP lounge is located on the second level, airside, and operates from 5 to 11 pm daily. Alitalia’s Tintoretto Lounge, situated in the Boarding Area for Schengen flights, is open from 4:30 to 8 p.m. Entrance is complimentary for priority club members, while others pay a one-time access fee.
Wi-Fi & Charging Stations: Free Wi-Fi is accessible across the terminal, with charging stations strategically placed for your convenience, allowing you to recharge your smartphone or other devices.
Tips & Facts
- International arrivals must pass through customs and passport control, while EU arrivals are exempt from customs.
- The new terminal covers 11,000 square meters (118,000 square feet), with plans for expansion to accommodate the anticipated rise in tourism over the next decade.
- Sleeping within the airport is strictly prohibited.
- Showers are available in the Marco Polo VIP Lounge for a fee.
