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If you’re visiting Italy and want to see more than just one city, adding Venice from Rome is a great choice. The trip isn’t exactly short: it takes around 3.5 to 4 hours each way. But thanks to Italy’s well-connected transport system, it’s straightforward and worth the effort. Whether you choose a high-speed train, a flexible rail pass, or a guided tour that handles everything for you, the options are set up to make the trip as smooth as possible.
So, how exactly can you get to Venice from Rome? We get into the different ways to travel between the two cities below, so keep reading for more!
Klook Tip: Travel light. Venice’s bridges and cobblestones aren’t suitcase-friendly, so pack efficiently.
By Train
Italy’s high-speed rail is operated by Trenitalia, Photo Credit: Ammar Elamir on Unsplash
The most popular way to travel is by high-speed train to Venice from Rome. Italy’s rail system is well-connected, and the journey is as much a part of the adventure as the destination.
- Travel Time: Around 3.5–4 hours.
- Departure Station in Rome: Roma Termini.
- Arrival Station in Venice: Venezia Santa Lucia, located right at the edge of the Grand Canal.
Once you step off the train, you’re already in the heart of Venice — you won’t need to worry about extra transfers. The view outside Santa Lucia station is one of the most magical “arrivals” you’ll ever have. For travelers who prefer flexibility, booking a Rome to Venice train ticket via Klook makes things easy. You can choose your departure time online and skip the hassle of waiting in ticket queues at the station.
If you’re planning multiple stops in Italy, say Florence, Milan, or Naples, the Italy Eurail Pass might be the smarter choice. And for travelers exploring even further across Europe, the Eurail Global Rail Pass gives you unlimited train travel across multiple countries, including your connection from Rome to Venice.
👀 Psst..! If you’re in Florence and are thinking of doing a day trip to Pisa, you can check out our full guide on how to do so (plus other Tuscany day trip options for you to consider) below!
By Guided Day Trip from Rome to Venice
Explore Venice’s canal alleyways and colorful buildings onboard a gondola
If you’re short on time but still don’t want to miss Venice, a guided day trip is one of the most stress-free options. With everything pre-arranged, you won’t have to worry about transport schedules or missing your return train.
Sounds like something up your alley? This Venice day tour from Rome is worth considering if so. This includes roundtrip high-speed train tickets and time to explore Venice on your own, leaving you with a full experience without needing to stay overnight.
This is a strong option if you’re pressed for time but want to make every second of your trip count. You’ll have just enough hours to stroll through St. Mark’s Square, take in the canals, and wander past the Rialto Bridge before returning to Rome by evening.
By Plane
Flights between Rome and Venice exist, but they’re rarely the most practical. While flight time itself is only about an hour, you’ll need to factor in check-in, security, and travel to and from airports, both of which are outside the city centers. By the time you add it all up, it’s often slower than taking the train.
That said, if you’re booking last-minute and train tickets are sold out, flights can be a backup option.
By Car
Driving in Italy is an adventure, but it’s not always the best way to connect Rome and Venice. The journey takes around 6–7 hours depending on traffic, and parking in Venice can be complicated (cars aren’t allowed in the historic center).
However, if you want to explore hidden towns along the way, like Bologna, Ferrara, or Padua, then a road trip could be rewarding. Just be prepared for limited parking near Venice, where you’ll likely need to leave your car at Piazzale Roma before switching to boats. Overall, in terms of convenience, public transportation like trains is still the most recommended route.
Navigating Venice’s Canals
Since cars are not allowed into the historic city center, getting to Venice via public transport is the best way to go
Once you’ve made it to Venice, remember this city has no cars, buses, or bikes. The only way around is on foot or by boat. The city can feel like a maze at first, but that’s part of the magic.
A practical way to move around is with the Venice Vaporetto Pass. Vaporetti are public water buses that run along the canals, including routes to iconic spots like the Rialto Bridge and St. Mark’s Square. Buying a pass saves you from paying for each ride separately and makes it easier to hop around without second-guessing costs.
Venice’s twisting alleys can make it easy to lose your bearings, so having reliable internet is a must for navigating maps or booking activities on the go. Picking up a Europe eSIM with high-speed internet means you’ll stay connected without worrying about roaming charges. Just install the eSIM via QR code (no need to swap out your physical SIM card!) and you’re online instantly.
What to Do Once You’re in Venice
Getting to Venice from Rome is only half the story. Once you’re here, you’ll want to experience the city beyond just snapping a photo in St. Mark’s Square. Here are a few highlights:
The grand facade of Doge's Palace, showcasing its Gothic architecture
1. Glide through the Canals
A gondola ride may sound cliché, but it’s the ultimate Venetian experience. The Gondola Ride in Venice lets you explore historic palaces, quiet side canals, and under romantic bridges. We recommend opting for late afternoon or evening rides for fewer crowds and softer golden light.
2. Wander around Doge’s Palace
The Doge’s Palace was the seat of Venice’s government for centuries and remains one of the most impressive Gothic landmarks in Europe. Booking Doge’s Palace admission via Klook gets you access to its grand halls, secret passageways, and even the famous Bridge of Sighs
3. Explore St. Mark’s Basilica without the wait
St. Mark’s Basilica is often packed, with lines snaking across the square. To save time, the St. Mark’s Basilica skip-the-line walking tour is a smart pick. You’ll not only skip queues but also get guided context on the mosaics, relics, and Byzantine architecture that make this church one of the most unique in Italy.
If you have extra time beyond the big sights, Venice offers plenty of lesser-known gems.
- Rialto Market: A bustling spot near the Rialto Bridge where locals shop for seafood and produce.
- Murano: Famous for glass-blowing traditions that go back centuries. You can even see artisans at work.
- Burano: A colorful island lined with pastel houses, perfect for photography.
These islands are easy to reach by Vaporetto, making them simple add-ons to your Venice trip.
Ciao, Italy? 👀
Traveling to Venice from Rome does take a few hours, but the journey is surprisingly seamless thanks to Italy’s reliable trains and organized tours. That kind of convenience makes the trip well worth it, even if you only have a single day to spare! You’ll spend a little time in transit but gain the chance to experience two unforgettable cities, all in one journey. With the right planning, it’s not just doable; it’s one of the most rewarding side trips you can take in Italy.
FAQs
How much is a bullet train from Rome to Venice?
Advance high-speed train fares between Rome and Venice commonly start around €30–€35 (~USD 35-41) for standard class, typical one-way fares often fall in the €40–€60 (~USD 47-70) range, and last-minute or full-fare (base) tickets can reach €90–€100 (~USD 106-117) during busy periods or for flexible/first-class options.
Note: Prices listed above are accurate at the time of writing but are subject to change over time. Make sure to double-check before you go!
Is it better to fly or train from Rome to Venice?
For most travelers, the train is the better option. Flights may look shorter, but once you factor in airport transfers, check-in, and security, the total time often exceeds the train journey. Plus, the train takes you straight from Rome’s city center to Venice’s Grand Canal with no extra transfers needed.
How long does a high-speed train from Rome to Venice take?
Expect about 3.5 to 4 hours of travel time. Trains depart frequently throughout the day, giving you flexibility to plan your schedule around sightseeing.
Is it worth a day trip from Rome to Venice?
Yes, if you’re pressed for time, a day trip is absolutely possible. An early train or guided day tour will give you enough hours to see highlights like St. Mark’s Square, the Rialto Bridge, and even enjoy a gondola ride before returning to Rome at night.
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