Venice cruise port: How to spend your day in Italy’s most romantic city

Renowned for its romantic canals, historic architecture and rich cultural heritage, Venice is an enchanting port call on many Mediterranean cruise itineraries.

For a one-day visit, begin St. Mark's Square, home to St. Mark's Basilica and the Campanile, offering panoramic views of the city and its surrounding lagoon. Take a gondola ride through the winding canals to experience Venice from the water. Afterward, visit a local bacaro for cicchetti and an iconic Venetian spritz before meandering through the maze of alleys filled with artisan shops. Whether you're admiring the intricate details of Venetian glass or simply soaking in the atmosphere, Venice is an unforgettable port of call.

However, reaching the "city of canals" can be confusing if your cruise starts or ends in Venice. Cruise ships are no longer allowed to dock in the historic port for environmental reasons and instead drop anchor in the industrial port of Marghera, about 20 minutes away, or in cities up to a few hours' drive away and then shuttle passengers to and from Venice. You'll want to double-check with your cruise line about where you are departing from, and if it is far away, book a night in a Venetian hotel before or after the cruise to be able to explore. If Venice is just a port of call, cruise lines will shuttle passengers into the city for the day.

In the past, cruise ships could dock right in Venice at Stazione Marittima (Venezia Terminal Passeggeri), after sailing up the Guidecca Canal, but now they must drop anchor across the lagoon on the mainland at the Marghera and Fusina dock areas, and at ports farther afield.

These changes came after years of increased tourism created concerns about the impact of cruise ships on Venice's delicate architecture and environment, and Italian officials banned larger ships from docking in the city. In response, some cruise lines shifted the location where their ships dock when visiting Venice to cities as far away as Chioggia, roughly 30 miles south of Venice; Ravenna, about 90 miles south of Venice; and Trieste, about 100 miles northeast of Venice.

This has greatly degraded the experience of visiting Venice by ship in some cases, as it has resulted in long transfer times to reach the city from the places where the ships dock. If you are signing up for a cruise that says it begins or ends in Venice, be sure to double-check that the ship's docking location isn't actually a port that's a couple of hours by bus away. You might be disappointed.

As a gateway to the Mediterranean and Adriatic seas, before the pandemic, Venice saw upward of 1.5 million cruise ship passengers per year. But with the new port structure, the city is estimated to have welcomed just 540,000 passengers in 2024. This is still approximately 9% more than the 497,000 passengers the city welcomed in 2023. There are currently 20 cruise line lines operating in the Venice area (including Chioggia, Ravenna and Trieste), including Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, MSC Cruises, Viking Cruises, Oceania Cruises and Silversea Cruises.

3 things TPG loves about Venice

• The enchanting canals and historic architecture
• World-renowned landmarks
• Distinctive shopping and dining experiences, like grabbing cicchetti (Venetian tapas) and wine at a bacaro (local wine bar)

What we could do without

• Crowded tourist spots, especially when cruise ships are in port
• High prices
• Impact of mass tourism (increased water pollution and foot traffic damage to Venice's historic buildings)

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Venice cruise port overview

In the past, cruise ships were able to dock at Stazione Marittima (Venezia Terminal Passeggeri), which is on the western side of Venice near the causeway from the mainland. But now the closest place to Venice that they can dock is the industrial port areas on the mainland at what is known as the Marghera and Fusina quays. In some cases, ships aiming to take cruisers to Venice are docking much further away than that — as far away as the town of Chioggia, roughly 30 miles south of Venice; Ravenna, about 90 miles south of Venice; and Trieste, about 100 miles northeast of Venice.

These changes came after years of increased tourism created concerns about the impact of cruise ships on the city's delicate architecture and environment. Italian officials redirected larger ships to other ports outside the historic center.

Currently, several cruise line lines operate in the Venice area (including ports in Chioggia, Ravenna and Trieste). Among them are Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, MSC Cruises, Viking Cruises, Oceania Cruises and Silversea Cruises.

The area is also a home port for some cruise lines. If you are boarding a cruise ship at one of the Venice-area ports, the embarkation process depends on the specific arrangements of your cruise line and can be confusing as it is still in a transitional phase. Many cruise lines (including MSC, Seabourn and Viking) now embark from Marghera, an industrial port that is being transformed into a cruise ship terminal. Located on the mainland across from Venice, Marghera is about a 15-to-20-minute drive (depending on traffic) from Venice's Stazione Marittima port, from where cruise ships used to depart.

Because check-in facilities in Marghera still are limited, you may still do your check-in at Stazione Marittima in Venice and then be transferred by shuttle to your ship in Marghera for boarding – a convoluted process that can make the first day of a cruise from Venice unpleasant. Some lines do complete both check-in and boarding directly at Marghera, where a new cruise terminal is being built. Still, other cruise ships depart from regional ports farther afield, such as Chioggia (Viking, Azamara and Uniworld), Ravenna (including Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, Regent Seven Seas, Silversea and Celebrity) and Trieste (Cunard, Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America, Princess Cruises, MSC and others).

Ravenna and Trieste, in particular, are so far away from Venice that you might consider touring those towns instead of Venice if you find yourself on a ship that docks at them. Both are tourist towns worth visiting in their own right.

Related: Best Italy cruises for a Mediterranean vacation

Venice fast facts

Arrival details

When your ship docks at Marghera, you will be transferred by shuttle to Stazione Marittima near Piazzale Roma. From there, you can catch a water taxi or vaparetto (water bus) that will take you to the main tourist area around St. Mark's Square, on the other side of Venice. That, or just walk. Venice is relatively small and walkable, and wandering its narrow streets is one of the highlights of a visit. If you strike out across Venice from Piazzale Roma, you'll find yourself in St. Mark's Square in relatively short order, having seen a wide slice of the city's historic architecture, canals, bridges and shopping areas along the way.

Language: Italian is the official language, but most tourist services use English

Currency: Italy uses the euro

Time zone: Central European Time (CET)

Top things to do in the Venice cruise port

St. Mark's Basilica

This stunning basilica is an absolute must-see in Venice. Known for its intricate Italo-Byzantine architecture, St. Mark's Basilica is adorned with more than 85,000 square feet of beautiful 13th-century mosaics. The basilica also has more than 500 Byzantine columns, some from the 6th century. Visitors can explore the church's interior, climb up to the terrace for spectacular views of St. Mark's Square and visit the museum to see the famous "Horses of Saint Mark" bronze sculptures.

Doge's Palace

Adjacent to St. Mark's Basilica, the Doge's Palace is a Gothic masterpiece that served as the Doge of Venice's residence and the seat of the Venetian government. Its opulent rooms are filled with Renaissance art and splendid decorations. The palace's prison cells and the infamous Bridge of Sighs, connecting the palace to the prison, offer a glimpse into the darker side of Venetian history.

Rialto Bridge

One of the most famous bridges in Venice, the Rialto Bridge spans the Grand Canal and offers picturesque views of the bustling waterway below. Completed in 1591, it is the oldest of the four bridges spanning the Grand Canal.

The Rialto Bridge is a marvel of Renaissance engineering and was constructed as a single-span stone bridge. That was a daring design choice in the late 16th century when many believed it would collapse under its own weight. It did not, and its elegant arches have stood the test of time. Stroll across it to feel the city's vibrant energy, capture some unforgettable pictures, and check out the rows of shops selling everything from jewelry to souvenirs.

Gondola rides

No trip to Venice is complete without a gondola ride. These traditional boats offer a unique perspective of the city's canals and historic buildings. Depending on when your cruise departs or if you arrive early or stay late, gondola rides are particularly romantic in the evening, as the setting sun casts a golden glow over the water. For an extra-special experience, consider booking a serenaded gondola ride, where musicians will sing classic Italian songs as you drift through the canals.

Murano and Burano islands

A short boat ride from Venice, the islands of Murano and Burano are acclaimed for their artisanal crafts. Murano is renowned for its glassblowing workshops, where you can watch artisans at work and purchase gorgeous handmade glass pieces. Burano is known for its brightly colored houses and intricate lacemaking. A visit to these islands also provides an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Popular Venice excursions

Cultural and historical excursions

One of the most popular city excursions is a guided tour of St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace. These tours often include skip-the-line access, allowing you to bypass the long lines and delve straight into the history and artistry of these iconic landmarks. The knowledgeable guides provide fascinating insights into the history of Venice and its rise as a maritime power.

Active excursions

A gondola ride combined with a walking tour is an excellent option for staying active. Start with a scenic gondola ride through the canals, followed by a guided walking and food tour through the winding streets of Venice. You'll get a good taste of the best of Venice in a short amount of time.

Island-hopping

Excursions to the Murano, Burano and Torcello islands are a popular choice if you've been to Venice and are looking for a new excursion. These tours typically include visits to glassblowing workshops in Murano, Burano's colorful streets and Torcello's historic churches. Each island offers its unique charm and a different aspect of Venetian culture.

Related: Shore excursions: What new cruisers need to know

Best Venice beaches near the cruise port

The closest beach to Venice, Lido di Venezia, has a sandy shoreline and a range of beach clubs where you can chill all day. This barrier island can provide a beachy escape from the city crowds (although it's also sometimes crowded) and offers opportunities for sunbathing and swimming.

Lido is about 4.3 miles from the port, and the journey takes between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on the transport you use. The fastest way to the barrier island is by a private water taxi from the port, which takes about 30 minutes.

To save some cash, walk about 20 minutes from the port. You can also take the People Mover train (the ride takes about five minutes and a one-way ticket costs 1.50 euros) to Piazzale Roma. From there, take Vaporetto Line 1 or Line 5.1 directly to Lido. For a scenic tour of the Grand Canal, take Line 1 in one of the directions, but know the trip is longer, close to an hour. Line 5.1 is more direct and takes about 45 minutes.

How to get around Venice on your own

On foot: Venice is a pedestrian city, and many of its main attractions are within walking distance of each other. Strolling through the narrow streets and across the picturesque bridges is one of the best ways to experience the city's charm and discover hidden gems.

Water taxi: In Venice, water taxis offer a quicker and more convenient way to get around. These private boats can be pricey, though, costing around 70-80 euros for a short trip for up to four passengers. However, they offer a direct and comfortable mode of transportation, especially for those who are traveling with luggage or in a group.

Vaporetto (water bus): The Vaporetto is Venice's primary mode of public transport. These water buses run regular routes along the Grand Canal and to the outer islands. They provide an affordable and efficient way to navigate the city, with tickets available for single journeys costing 9.50 euros and a 24-hour card for unlimited travel costing 25 euros.

Venice restaurants near the cruise port

The Cannaregio and Dorsoduro districts are known for their authentic Venetian cuisine and are great places to explore for a meal. Here, you can find traditional dishes such as cicchetti, risotto al nero di seppia (squid ink risotto) and fresh seafood dishes.

These areas are less touristy than the eateries near St. Mark's Square and usually have better quality food at more reasonable prices. Don't forget to try a classic Venetian dessert like tiramisu or a refreshing gelato from one of the many gelaterias scattered around the city.

Venice cruise port shopping

Venice is a great shopping city with a mix of high-end boutiques, local artisan shops and vibrant markets. The historic Rialto Market is an excellent place to start. Near the Rialto Bridge, it is a lively spot where locals pick up fresh produce, seafood and other Venetian specialties. It is easy to get lost just wandering the stalls here. The surrounding shops also offer an assortment of souvenirs, from Venetian carnival masks and handmade lace to Murano glass and marbled paper.

Head to Calle Larga XXII Marzo for high-end boutiques. Along this street, you'll find international brands like Gucci, Prada and Louis Vuitton, as well as local designers. It's a shopper's paradise, offering everything from fashion to jewelry and accessories.

Mercerie is another bustling shopping street connecting St. Mark's Square to the Rialto Bridge. It's lined with a mix of local shops and international stores, offering a wide range of products, including clothing, accessories and souvenirs. The Mercerie is excellent for finding unique Venetian items like handcrafted masks and glasswork.

Free things to do in the Venice cruise port

One of the best free ways to experience Venice is simply by wandering through its narrow streets and canals. The city's architecture, bridges and hidden squares are delightful to explore on foot, and you'll often stumble upon charming cafes and shops.

While some attractions in the square require an entrance fee, it costs nothing to walk around St. Mark's Square and admire the stunning architecture of St. Mark's Basilica, the Campanile and the surrounding buildings. The square is also excellent for people-watching and soaking in Venice's vibrant vibe.

Walking across the iconic Rialto Bridge for views of the Grand Canal is a free activity in Venice. The bridge is a piece of history, and the surrounding area teems with shops and lively cafes.

Bottom line

Stazione Marittima offers easy access to the city center, famed for its unique blend of historic charm, cultural richness and scenic beauty. From exploring iconic landmarks like St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace to enjoying a romantic gondola ride through the canals, this enchanting city has something for everyone.

Despite the challenges posed by mass tourism, Venice remains a must-visit destination, offering unforgettable experiences and a glimpse into Italy's rich heritage.

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