Trains to Venice

Make visiting Venice easier by taking the train. Venice has excellent rail connections with Italian cities and locations in France, Switzerland, and Germany. Journey times from Milan or Rome are manageable and the main station, Santa Lucia, is centrally located. While drivers have to park and cross the causeway, rail arrivals can wander straight to St Mark's Square.

Which is the main train station in Venice?

The main train station in Venice is Santa Lucia, although some services arrive into Mestre as well. Santa Lucia is located on the main island, not far from the historic center. Passengers can walk to St. Mark's Square in 20-25 minutes, or catch a Vaporetto if they wish. Mestre is located on the mainland and is around 10-12 minutes from Santa Lucia by local trains.

Which train companies offer trains to Venice?

Domestic rail connections from Florence, Milan, Rome, or Turin are provided by Trenitalia, Italo, and Trenitalia Frecciarossa, the company's high-speed service. No changes are needed for journeys from those Italian cities. Trains from Germany or France will require a change and may involve companies like SNCF or DB.

Why travel by train to Venice?

Taking the train to Venice is the ideal way to visit the magical Italian city. Most importantly, Santa Lucia station is easily the most convenient entry point. Because Venice is located on a series of islands and traffic is restricted, coaches can't reach the city center and Marco Polo Airport is well out of town. By contrast, train arrivals can walk to the center with ease. Additionally, the experience of traveling by train is comfortable and hassle-free, while the approach to Venice is a sight that most visitors won't want to miss.

Before you travel to Venice by train - good to know!

Venice isn't always the easiest city to navigate owing to its canals and islands. ACTV Travel Cards provide a helping hand, though, facilitating unlimited journeys on the city's unique water taxis (Vaporetti). They work out much cheaper than paying for journeys individually and can be purchased for durations of one to seven days. When in the city, find time for a trip to Chioggia, a fishing village that brings the 18th century to life and don't miss the fortress at Sant'Andrea. The views across to the city center are gorgeous and the ruins are fascinating.