Cheap Flights to Venice
From its grand historic palaces to its alluring canals, the mystique of Venice is legendary. Gliding along ancient waterways is just a small part of the floating city’s appeal. There are also spectacular sites like St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace and Academy Gallery that display famously beautiful works of art. The city is separated from Italy’s mainland by the Venetian Lagoon. It’s there on the edge of the mainland and lagoon in the city of Mestre that international travelers on flights to Venice arrive at Marco Polo Airport (VCE).
Marco Polo Airport
On a clear day, travelers flying into Marco Polo Airport are treated to incredible views of the lagoon and the distant peaks of the Dolomites. Most major airlines offer flights to Venice, including American, Delta, British Airways, Lufthansa, Alitalia and KLM. The airport’s ground level is home to a helpful visitor's information desk and the transportation ticketing desk, which is where you can find information about transportation to Venice. If you prefer to get to Venice from the airport via the lagoon, you'll take a 5- to 10-minute walk to the water transport pier. Alilaguna water buses travel to several points in Venice and generally cost from $8 to $15. Private water taxis are pricier at about $120. Land transport options include ACTV public buses that cost about $6, delivering you to Venice's main Piazzale Roma transportation hub. Motor vehicles are not allowed beyond Piazzale Roma, so you’ll either walk to your hotel from there or take a public water vaporetto.
Attractions in Venice
It’s usually more convenient to stay in Venice than near the airport in Mestre. Venice is home to dozens of hotels, including some in the popular St. Mark’s Square area. There, you are just steps from the square’s clock tower, the Campanile and the basilica as well as the Rialto Bridge and Grand Canal. Castello, one of Venice’s six “sestieri” districts, is also a popular neighborhood as it puts you in close range of other remarkable Venetian sites like the Arsenale, the Santa Giovanni e Paolo church and the posh Riva degli Schiavoni promenade. Be sure to make time to visit Murano to see its iconic blown glass and Burano to explore its exquisite lace-making facilities and museum.
Venice Travel Tips
Venice is best known for its extravagant Carnevale festivities, including the breathtaking costumes, surreal street theater and magnificent balls. Carnevale is one of the city’s busiest travel seasons, but the time between Carnevale and summer is usually an excellent time to visit. While the city isn't as food-centric as the rest of Italy, it specializes in fish cuisine. These dishes are generally more expensive than other entrees, and they are often priced by the weight of the fish. For less expensive meals, stick to restaurants frequented by locals. Travelers should also be aware that restaurants often charge a cover fee. A basic pizza dinner for two should cost about $30 while a two- or three-course meal for two usually costs from $50 to $60.
