One of the most common questions tourists ask when visiting Venice is, Where can we buy tickets for the waterbus? Since the vaporetto is such an essential part of getting around the city, it’s important to know how to get a ticket quickly and easily.Let’s take a closer look at how things work in Venice.
Where to Buy Waterbus Passes in Venice
Online (Best for Early Planning)
You can buy passes in advance through the official ACTV platform or partner sites.
- Official site: veneziaunica.it
- Payment via card
- You’ll receive a QR code or voucher to scan when in Venice
✅ Good for skipping lines at vending machines.
At the Airport (Upon Arrival)
If you land at Marco Polo Airport, you’ll find ACTV ticket counters or self-service machines near the arrival gates.
💡 Combine your waterbus pass with the Alilaguna boat transfer from the airport.
At Vaporetto Stations
Main stops like Piazzale Roma, Santa Lucia train station, and Rialto have:
- Ticket offices
- Self-service machines
- • Staff to assist you (in English too!)
Authorized Shops
Many tabacchi (tobacco shops) and newsstands around Venice sell ACTV tickets and passes. Look for the “ACTV” or “Venezia Unica” sticker on the window.
Validating the Pass
Always validate your ticket before boarding using the small electronic validator at the pier entrance.
⛔ Not validating = Heavy fine!
Can You Use Mobile Tickets?
Yes! On the Venezia Unica app, you can buy and store passes on your phone. At the vaporetto stop, scan your mobile QR code to board.
🟢 It’s fast, contactless, and paper-free.
However, make sure to only use the official site or well-reviewed travel apps. Some third-party vendors may charge more or provide incorrect ticket types.
Types of Vaporetto Passes
ACTV offers different types of passes:
- Single Ticket (75 mins): ~€9.50
- 24-Hour Pass: ~€25
- 48-Hour Pass: ~€35
- 72-Hour Pass: ~€45
- 7-Day Pass: ~€65
For example, if you’re staying for 3 days and plan to explore islands, the 72-hour pass is your best value.
📌 These passes allow unlimited rides during their validity period.
What many tourists don’t realize is that the same waterbus ticket can also be used for Venice’s regular buses, making it even more convenient for travelers to navigate both land and water.
Why Buy a Pass?
While some tourists might consider buying individual tickets for each journey, having a pass offers more freedom and flexibility. Venice is full of surprises, and you might find yourself wanting to hop on and off the vaporetto several times in a day—whether to visit an island, take a scenic ride along the Grand Canal, or simply move from one neighborhood to another.
Having a pass means you can travel as much as you like without worrying about buying tickets for each trip. It also saves you money in the long run if you plan on using the waterbus multiple times during your stay.
Tips from Locals
There’s a little-known detail about Venice’s vaporetto system that most tourists only find out once they’re already at the station. At major stops like Piazzale Roma, Rialto, or San Marco, you’ll often notice there are two entrances to board the waterbus. One of these entrances is reserved for local residents of Venice, while the other is for tourists. This is Venice’s way of helping locals get around faster since they rely on the vaporetto for their daily commutes.
The tricky part for tourists is that both entrances look very similar, and there’s often no clear sign that tells you which line is meant for residents and which one is for tourists. It can be confusing if you don’t know about this beforehand. Unfortunately, even if you have a valid ticket, you can’t simply choose either line—you must enter through the correct one. Many tourists end up standing in the wrong queue, only to be told to move to the other line once they get close to the boat.Yes, typically, at major vaporetto stops in Venice, the right-side entrance is designated for tourists.
However, it’s essential to keep in mind that this can vary by location, and there may not always be clear signage indicating which entrance to use. It’s always a good idea to look for other travelers or ask a staff member if you’re unsure. This way, you can avoid any confusion and ensure a smoother experience boarding the waterbus.
Which Option is Best?
Ultimately, the best option depends on your travel preferences. If you prefer to have everything organized ahead of time, buying your waterbus pass online is a smart choice. It saves you from having to find a ticket booth or machine when you arrive, letting you enjoy your trip without delay. On the other hand, if you like to be more spontaneous or prefer purchasing things in person, buying a pass at a vaporetto station or tabacchi shop is just as convenient.
A: If you’re staying more than one day and plan to visit outer islands, definitely yes.
A: Kids under 6 ride free with an adult.
A: Yes! ACTV passes also work for Mestre and Lido bus/tram services.
