travel from venice to florence italy

How to Travel From Venice to Florence by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

Venice and Florence are two of the most popular cities to visit in Italy, one for its picturesque canals and the other for its Renaissance art and architecture. The two tourist-centric destinations, separated by about 258 kilometers (160 miles), are connected by a fast and efficient rail service and the famous autostrada , where it's perfectly acceptable to drive at 130 kilometers (80 miles) per hour . It would take about three hours to drive it, but that's not counting the time you'll want to spend in places like Padua , Ferrara , and  Bologna along the way. Flying takes about the same amount of time, but it's expensive and there are no direct routes. The two-hour train is a popular transportation option and there's a bus for the budget-conscious, too.

What Is the Cheapest Way to Get From Venice to Florence? 

The bus makes it easy to adhere to a budget whilst traveling through the Italian countryside. FlixBus departs several times a day from the Venetian island of Tronchetto (which you may have to ferry to for $9 and 20 minutes of your time). The most direct route takes just over three hours to get to Florence's Piazzale Montelungo, but longer trips can take more than seven hours and require messy transfers. Tickets start around $10. Considering the minimal price difference between taking the bus and the train (a much faster journey)—which can be bridged by that ferry ticket to Tronchetto anyway—most people choose to travel by rail instead.

What Is the Fastest Way to Get From Venice to Florence? 

The high-speed train between Venice's Santa Lucia station and Florence's Firenze Santa Maria Novella station takes a mere two hours (sometimes more, sometimes less), making it even faster than driving (especially when you factor in the train's city center-to-city center service). Between the two available services—Trenitalia Frecce and ItaloTreno—trains depart every hour and a half between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. Tickets start at around $20 and can be booked via Rail Europe .

How Long Does It Take to Drive? 

Driving can easily wind up being the most expensive transportation option—what with the cost of parking, fuel, and renting a car, if necessary—but it offers the most potential for adventure along the way. The most direct route between Venice and Florence is the autostrada (highways A13 and E35, specifically), which is a 257-kilometer (160-mile) route that takes about three hours of driving time.

How Long Is the Flight? 

There are no airlines that fly directly between Venice and Florence , but Italy's flag carrier Alitalia offers frequent flights to and from both destinations, stopping in Rome. The flight to Rome from Venice Marco Polo is about an hour and 10 minutes, then from Rome to Florence is another 55 minutes. The layover at Rome Fiumicino typically lasts about an hour, too, making the entire journey about three hours (as long as it would take to drive). The real downfall is the price: Tickets start around $286. Florence has only one airport and it's about a 15-minute drive from the center.

When Is the Best Time to Travel to Florence? 

The best time to travel to Florence from Venice is before or after the summer high season, when transportation will be booked up and, therefore, most expensive. April, September, and October tend to be quiet and cheap times to travel while still offering mild weather and tourist-centric activities. Book your train ticket well in advance (up to 60 days) for the lowest price. Otherwise, if you're traveling on short notice, it's recommended to opt for off-peak trains, which Rail Europe says are "more affordable than morning and evening trains along with those running on holiday eves, Friday, and Sunday afternoon."

What’s the Most Scenic Route to Florence? 

If you're looking to see some authentic Italian countryside along the route, take Po Valley, the country's agricultural heartland, instead of the autostrada. This route, running between Verona and Parma, is a short detour adding about 150 kilometers (93 miles) and an hour and a half onto the trip. On the upside, though, you won't pass any tolls and you'll be treated to some marvelous natural scenery along the way. If you'd still rather take the autostrada, then be sure to make pit stops in historic Padua, artsy Ferrara, and the culinary haven of Bologna for some Tagliatelle al Ragu.

Can I Use Public Transportation to Travel From the Airport? 

The easiest and cheapest way to get to the city center from the Florence Peretola Airport is by tram. The Tramvia line T1 connects the airport to Santa Maria Novella (SMN)—Florence's centerpiece—in about 15 minutes and for about $1.63 per ticket. You can purchase tickets at the station, which is located just outside of baggage claim. Alternatively, you can take the Volainbus , a special bus shuttle that goes to SMN, but it takes slightly longer (around 20 minutes) and costs more ($6.50), too.

What Is There to Do in Florence? 

Florence was once one of the wealthiest European cities during medieval times (earning the nickname "the Athens of the Middle Ages") and you can still tell it today just by looking at the richness of its Renaissance-era architecture and monuments. The famous Uffizi Gallery—housing works by Raphael, Michelangelo, Da Vinci, and Botticelli—is a good representation of this, as is every building you'll see as you stroll through the city. Sitting at the heart of Tuscany , Florence is also known for its wine and food. You will find it tough to resist the olives and Chianti on every menu.

Venice and Florence are 258 kilometers (160 miles) apart.

The most direct route is the autostrada (highways A13 and E35, specifically), which will take about three hours.

The high-speed train between Venice's Santa Lucia station and Florence's Firenze Santa Maria Novella station takes two hours. Tickets start at around $20.

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From Venice to Florence: 5 Best Ways to Get There

Written by Shandley McMurray Jun 16, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Venice and Florence are must-visit destinations on any Italian itinerary . The fact that they lie 269 kilometers from each other makes it easy to see both cities in one trip, especially when there are so many convenient ways to travel between the two.

Traveling from the sparkling canals and captivating attractions of Venice to the unmissable museums and beautiful churches of Florence is easy if you take the train. The fastest way to get from Venice to Florence, high-speed Frecciarossa trains can reach the Tuscan capital in two hours and 13 minutes .

Other ways to reach Florence include booking a private transfer and driving yourself, which could be a bit stressful if you're unfamiliar with Italian roads. Taking the bus and flying are also popular ways to get around.

No matter which way you choose to travel, use our list of the best ways to get from Venice to Florence.

On This Page:

• From Venice to Florence by Train
• From Venice to Florence by Private Transfer
• From Venice to Florence by Car
• From Venice to Florence by Bus
• From Venice to Florence by Plane

1. From Venice to Florence by Train

The fastest and easiest way to get from Venice to Florence is by train . Climbing aboard a Trenitalia high-speed Frecciarossa train is the best way to travel. Reaching high speeds of 300 kilometers an hour, they can zip between Venice Santa Lucia and Florence Santa Maria Novella stations in two hours and 13 minutes .

The Frecciarossa 1000 is even faster , reaching speeds of up to 400 kilometers an hour. A journey on this speedy train will get you to Florence in under two hours . Tickets on Frecciarossa trains will cost about $43 one-way for a standard fare and over $154 for Executive class.

These trains run multiple times a day (nearly every hour) and boast air-conditioning, power outlets, free Wi-Fi, and access to a café car.

Another high-speed option can be found on trains with Italo Tren . Their quick trains run between Venice Santa Lucia and Florence Santa Maria Novella in two hours and 15 minutes. They also operate trains between Venice Mestre station and Florence Santa Maria Novella in just over two hours .

Tickets cost as low as $14 depending on the time, date, and class you choose.

Trenitalia also offers Intercity trains , which are much slower and similarly priced to their faster Frecciarossa counterparts. They only reach a top speed of 200 kilometers an hour and operate as local trains, making more stops along the route.

On average, these trains will take about three hours and 14 minutes to arrive in Florence Santa Maria Novella. Tickets cost about $14 or more than $43 for a First-Class fare. Our suggestion: opt for the faster trains, there's really no downside.

2. From Venice to Florence by Private Transfer

A stress-free way to get from Venice to Florence is by private transfer . If you're traveling with a small group, this is also a budget-friendly way to travel. Booking a private transfer with a personal chauffeur means you'll get from point A to point B without the hassle of dealing with public transportation.

An English-speaking driver will collect you and your travel partners from Piazzale Roma. They will then transport you in an air-conditioned vehicle to Florence, making stops as requested along the way. There's also bottled water provided in the car and Wi-Fi.

For an extra fee, you can request a longer stop in towns like Bologna , Ferrara , or the Barberino Outlet . After that, the driver will take you to your hotel or other accommodation in Florence. The drive, without stops, will take between three and four hours, depending on traffic.

3. From Venice to Florence by Car

If you feel comfortable navigating twisty roads peppered with drivers who treat them like an F1 track, hit the road! Driving is an easy and scenic way to get from Venice to Florence . The most direct route can cover the 269 kilometers between these two major Italian cities in over three hours .

If you're traveling in summer, prepare to add a minimum of one hour to this estimate—the traffic is horrendous, especially on weekends. If you're not in a hurry, perfect! We suggest stopping in at least two of Italy's most beautiful cities on your road trip.

Verona is most famous as home to Juliet's balcony (yes, that Juliet). A popular day trip destination , it lies a mere 121 kilometers west of Venice, which will take about an hour and a half to drive. There are enough fun things to do in this quaint town that you'll want to factor in at least two hours to explore.

Your next stop should include the buzzing town of Bologna , which is an ideal place for a day trip from Florence . Located 117 kilometers north of Florence , it lies under two hours away and boasts enough interesting tourist attractions that you'll want to carve out a few hours for this road-trip stop .

The direct route follows the A1 Autostrada, also known as the E35, and the A13 for much of the journey.

Insider's tip: Keep cash or a debit/credit card at hand to pay for the toll roads.

Renting a car in Venice is a cinch . Companies like Europcar , Sixt , and Hertz boast multiple pickup locations, including convenient spots by the Venice Mestre train station.

4. From Venice to Florence by Bus

Cash-strapped travelers will be happy to know that taking the bus is the cheapest way to get from Venice to Florence . Tickets can cost as little as $4.99 depending on which company, route, date, and time you choose to travel.

Flixbus offers affordable rates on their routes, which run from Venice Tronchetto (a 12-minute drive from Venice Mestre train station) to Florenz Villa Costanza (a 17-minute drive from Florence Santa Maria Novella station). Buses also depart from Venice Mestre station many times a day beginning at 12:50 am and ending at 9:15 pm.

Depending on traffic, the ride will take about three hours and 50 minutes from Venice Mestre station to Florenz Villa Costanza, which lies just outside the city. Tickets cost as little as $4.99 and many are direct trips. The buses are air-conditioned and offer free Wi-Fi and power outlets.

Itabus is another budget-friendly company offering trips from Venice to Florence for as little as $13. Buses leave from Venice Tronchetto and Mestre stations and arrive at Florence Villa Costanza between three hours and 20 minutes and four hours and 25 minutes later, depending on the route, date, and time.

Itabuses run these routes from 7:50 am to 10:25 pm. They feature reclining seats, power outlets, and a double armrest. They also boast air-conditioning and free Wi-Fi.

5. From Venice to Florence by Plane

If you prefer to take to the skies when traveling throughout Italy, flying is a somewhat convenient way to get from Venice to Florence . ITA Airways offers multiple flights a day from Venice's Marco Polo airport to Florence's airport best known as Peretola.

While the flights aren't direct (most stop for over an hour in Rome), they'll still get you there in about three and a half hours . Economy class tickets will cost about $160 for a return trip, more than $240 if you choose superior class.

After landing, you'll have to get to your hotel or other destination in Florence. While taking a taxi is easy, the T2 Vespucci line of Tramvia GEST is a two-minute walk from the arrivals and departures areas of Terminal 2 and the tram arrives at Florence's center in 20 minutes. Tickets cost about $1.70 and can be purchased from machines at all tramway stops or on the TABNET app on a smartphone.

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Venice to Florence by Train: Plan your Trip

With more than 35 direct train services per day, it couldn’t be easier to travel between Italy’s blockbuster destinations, Venice and Florence. The 257-km rail route is now served by two high-speed rail operators, Italo and Trenitalia, reaching speeds of up to 360-km per hour. In theory, that means you could be enjoying an aperitivo in St Mark’s Square at dusk, then tucking into dinner in front of the Uffizi a little more than two hours later. If you’re planning on making the trip, we’ve analysed the best train options below. 

An Italo train races through the Veneto, between Venice and Florence (Photo: Italo)

All high-speed direct trains depart from Venezia Santa Lucia Station, the city’s main station, and terminate at Firenze Santa Maria Novella station. While there are some scenic stretches en-route, particularly along the Veneto, most of the journey is under cover. So, if you’re looking for sparkling vistas, you may want to opt for one of Trenitalia’s slower regional trains, which usually require a change at Ravenna and Ferrara. If you’re looking for a high-speed, direct route there are two options: privately-owned Italo and state-owned Trenitalia. 

Italo trains, which launched in 2012, was created by two of Italy’s most powerful businessmen – Luca Cordero di Montezemolo, CEO of Ferrari, and Diego Dalle Valle, CEO of Tod’s. While they may not have designed the interiors themselves, they certainly influenced them. Spacious reclining seats covered in frau leather are standard across all classes. Carriages are air-conditioned, with free WiFi and power sockets at every seat. And, there’s also a smart cinema carriage showing selected films on TV screens suspended from the ceiling. 

Inside 2nd class on an Italo EVO train (Photo: Italo)

Passengers can choose from four classes: Smart, Comfort, Prima and Executive. By usual 2nd class standards, Smart class is extremely comfortable, with ample legroom and comfy leather seats. Comfort class offers even more legroom, with three seats per row, instead of four. Prima class passengers can enjoy complimentary wine and snacks throughout the journey, and an innovative meal-in-a-box from EatItaly, served at your seat. Club Executive caters for business travellers, offering just 11 seats in a saloon-style carriage, each featuring a 9” LCD-touch screen television. Business travellers can also reserve one of two intimate salottinos  or private berths for meetings too. 

The cinema carriage on an Italo train from Venice to Florence (Photo: Italo)

Visitors who chose to travel with Trenitalia will travel by Frecciarossa or Frecciargento service. Both high-speed trains are air-conditioned, offering free WiFi and power sockets at every seat. Luggage can be stored overhead or in large luggage racks at either entrance. Many services are operated by the Frecciarossa 1000, Trenitalia’s newest addition to the fleet, famous for its iconic long red nose. It’s also the first high-speed train in the world to have obtained EPD certification for environmental impact.

A Frecciarossa train with its iconic ‘long nose’ (Photo: David Almeida via Flickr/CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)

Like Italo’s offering, Frecciarossa trains now offer four classes. Standard features fabric seats, while Premium offers an identical seat layout with leather seats and a complimentary welcome drink too. In Business class, passengers are treated to more legroom, larger leather seats and a complimentary hot drink or alcoholic beverage. Or, for a premium experience, try the Executive class, which offers just eight extra-comfortable leather reclining seats with a dedicated steward. The price includes a complimentary cold tray and drinks, as well as an option to book the six-person meeting room. If you’re travelling by Frecciargento, there are only two classes available: 1st and 2nd class. 1st class will get you extra legroom, as well as a complimentary welcome drink. 

The interior of a 2nd class carriage on a Frecciargento train (Photo: Kanesue via Flickr/ CC BY 2.0)

Train schedule 

The route between Venice and Florence is extremely well served, with an average of 35 direct services per day. Generally, Trenitalia operates a more frequent service, with at least one train every hour. 

Rates and how to book

You can book trains up to six months before your departure date. Tickets from Venice to Florence start at €19.90 for Standard class tickets or €29.90 for Premium. Children under 4 travel free on Trenitalia’s Frecciarossa, while children under 3 go free on Italo. 

We recommend booking tickets through Omio, a leading European train ticket comparison website guaranteed to find the cheapest available rate. The booking process is easy and takes just a couple of minutes, and you don’t even have to create an account either. Book your tickets at Omio.com .

Where to stay in Florence on a budget 

Florence is a compact city, best explored on foot. The Santa Maria Novella station is located in one of four historic neighbourhoods, home to some of the city’s most important museums, palaces and churches, as well as the best shopping in the city along the Via de Tornabuoni and Via Della Vigna Nuova. Here we’ve rounded up three of the best accommodation offerings that combine style and service at an affordable price, all within walking distance to the station and Florence’s best sights. 

Walls are covered in hand-painted frescoes by local artists at Hostel Archi Rossi (Photo: Hostel Archi Rossi)

Run by two charismatic brothers – Leonardo and Marco –  Hostel Archi Rossi is  a friendly and laid back hostel conveniently located just 250 yards from Santa Maria Novella train station. Artworks from guests and locals adorn the walls of the lobby, leading out to a charming private garden and terrace. After a day of pummeling the pavements, guests can make use of the in-house wellness centre, which includes a sauna, hot tub and bookable massages.

The Suite at Casa Howard (Photo: Casa Howard)

For a budget bolthole that isn’t a hostel Casa Howard   is a real steal. A stone’s throw from the station, it’s also just ten minutes walk from Florence’s most famous sites. Each bedroom is uniquely furnished, all Japanese-inspired pillar box reds and sumptuous emerald greens. There is no reception, but there are common areas throughout, all brimming with chinoiserie linens, antique furnishings and travel memorabilia, making it feel more like an ancestral home than a hotel. 

Views of the Duomo from the terrace at Hotel Santa Maria Novella (Photo: Hotel Santa Maria Novella)

For a mid-range option, try the  Hotel Santa Maria Novella . With a sauna, fitness room and cocktail bar, it feels even more luxury than its four stars will have you believe. Each of the 71 bedrooms is decorated distinctively, with vibrant velvets, original parquet flooring and Carrara marble bathrooms. An intimate rooftop terrace is the perfect spot to wind down with a glass of chianti or negroni, overlooking the Duomo and the meandering Arno River as the sun goes down.

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Florence to Venice Train – Step-By-Step + Photos

Whether you’re planning a day trip to Venice or you’re just making your way up to Venice to continue your travels, you may be thinking about taking the train from Florence to Venice.

Traveling from Florence to Venice by train (vs. car or bus) is a good idea because:

• You can travel ‘door-to-door’
• You don’t have to worry about gas, tolls, driving, or parking
• You can find great deals on train tickets if you book in advance

In this guide, I’ll show you how to plan and take your trip, one step at a time.  And, assuming no train strikes, your journey from Florence to Venice will be smooth and stress-free!

Traveling from Florence to Venice by Train, Step-By-Step:

• Decide which Venice train station you need.
• Choose your train company.
• Buy your Florence to Venice train tickets.
• Get to the train station in Florence.
• Use the Florence train station facilities.
• Find your train.
• Enjoy the train ride from Florence to Venice.
• Arrive in Venice.

Table of Contents

Decide Which Venice Train Station You Need

When you book your ticket, you’ll need to know where you want to get off the train in Venice.  If you want to arrive in the heart of Venice (with the canals and islands – classic Venice), you’ll buy a ticket to Venice Santa Lucia train station.  If you need to go to the Venice mainland, you’ll buy a ticket to Venice Mestre.

Choose Your Train Company – Trenitalia or Italo Treno

You can travel from Florence to Venice with state-owned Trenitalia or privately-owned Italo Treno.

Trenitalia has high-speed ( alta velocità ) trains between Florence and Venice as well as other slower trains (some are still fairly fast, like Intercity trains, while regional and local trains move slowly and make a lot of stops). 

For example, you may see choices like these when you’re looking up Florence to Venice trains on Trenitalia:

• 2 hr 14 min (direct) on the Frecciarossa 1000
• 4 hr 11 min (2 changes) on regional trains
• 3 hr 59 min (1 change) on Intercity and regional trains

At the time of writing, I counted 33 trains (14 of them alta velocità ) per day that run from Florence to Venice, with the first leaving around 4:30 and the last leaving at 21:20.

Helpful Tip:   If you’re on a budget and not in a hurry, the slower trains on Trenitalia are a good option.  Keep in mind that they will not have air conditioning, even in the hot summer months.

Visit the official Trenitalia site for schedules, fares, and info.

Italo Treno

Italo Treno has a fleet of high-speed trains and its network connects larger Italian cities like Florence and Venice.  At the time of writing, there are 9 trains per day that run from Florence to Venice (you can get off at Venice Mestre or Venice Santa Lucia train stations), with the first leaving at 8:39 and the last leaving at 19:39. 

Visit the official Italo Treno site for schedules, fares, and info.

What We Do:   I have no loyalty when it comes to the Italian train companies.  I look to see which company has the best deal and best schedule for our desired train trip.  The high-speed trains for both Trenitalia and Italo are excellent and the amenities are fairly similar. 

Helpful Tip:   Check both train companies’ websites (or apps) for offers at least 3 days before you’re traveling – many of the best offers must be purchased a few days in advance.

You can read more about Trenitalia and Italo Treno in our guide to Train Travel in Italy .

Buy Your Florence to Venice Train Tickets

I use both the apps and website for both Trenitalia and Italo Treno.  They both work and both have English language versions. 

Helpful Tip:   I don’t recommend using 3 rd party services to buy train tickets.  Why not?  Because it’s so much easier to make changes via the company’s apps or by speaking to a Trenitalia or Italo agent in person at a ticket counter or customer service booth at a train station.

Things happen (you run late, trains run late, plans change, etc), and it’s much easier to deal directly with the train companies.  This is based on my experience with train travel in Italy and the experiences of travelers I’ve worked with.

Buying Italian Train Tickets Online

You can log on to the official site for either company – Trenitalia or Italo . 

Choices you’ll need to make during your booking:

• High speed ( alta velocità ) train or not
• Changeable ticket
• Train class (1 st , 2 nd , etc)
• Reserving your seat
• Entering the appropriate train stations – Firenze S. M. Novella (Trenitalia), Florence S. M. Novella (Italo), Venezia S. Lucia (both)

Buying Italian Train Tickets on Apps

Both Trenitalia and Italo have easy-to-use apps.  You’ll need to make the same decisions you do when you’re buying tickets from the website. 

Nice To Know:   If you’re heading to Venice from Florence at the last minute, you can see the individual trains’ statuses (delayed, on time) on Trenitalia – very helpful!

Note that you no longer need to ‘sign in’ to Trenitalia (and you never needed to with Italo) – you can just make a purchase. 

Buying Italian Train Tickets at the Train Station

This is my least favorite option because I don’t like waiting in lines.  If you need to buy your tickets at the station, be sure to buy them in advance so you know you’ll get a ticket.  If you do want to chance showing up just before the train leaves, make sure you leave enough time for lines – especially if you want to wait in line to speak to an agent.  You can also use the self-service ticket machines in the Florence train station.

Get to the Train Station in Florence

The best method will depend on where you’re at in the city, as well as other things like how much luggage you have and what options are available where you are.  I recommend walking, taking a taxi, or taking the tramvia.

Check Google Maps for the best route and mode of transportation from where you are in Florence to the train station.

Walk to the Florence Train Station

If you’re not far and don’t have a ton of luggage, I think it’s easiest to walk to the station.  It’s easy to access and you can walk in the underground passageway to avoid the traffic and intersections right in front of the station.

Take a Taxi to the Florence Train Station

If you have a lot of luggage or need to just get to the Florence train station quickly, call a taxi. +39 055 4242 or +39 055 4390.  If you don’t have a phone, ask your hotel to call for you.  Or, catch a taxi from a designated taxi stand in Florence (you can’t hail a cab here).

Take the Tramvia to the Florence Train Station

You may be close to one of the Florence tram lines (T1 or T2), which stop at the Alamanni tram station – right in front of the Florence Santa Maria Novella train station. 

See the Tramvia official website for routes and timetables.

Returning a Rental Car to Florence:   If you’re returning your rental car before getting on the train to Venice, you’ll return it to the Florence airport or locations near the train station.  If you return your car to the airport, you can take a taxi or the tram to get to the train station.  If you’re returning your car to the locations near the train station, you can easily walk (or take a taxi if you have a lot of luggage).

Use the Florence Train Station Facilities

Once you get to the Florence S.M. Novella train station, you can use some of the facilities (if you have time).  Inside the station, you’ll find:

• Bars and Cafés
• Toilets – near binario (track) 5, or use the toilet when you get on the train
• Shopping – below the station, clothing, gifts, candy, miscellaneous

Helpful Tip:   There’s a Conad City supermarket just outside the train station (Piazza della Stazione).  Perfect for snacks, fresh fruit, water, etc.

Find Your Train

Once you’re ready to find your train, look up at the large digital display boards .  Find PARTENZE (DEPARTURES) and look for your train number and the binario (track).

Good To Know:   Your binario may not be up, even a few minutes before your train is supposed to depart.  This is especially common with the high-speed trains.  Don’t worry – there are many others in your situation.  When your binario shows up on the board, walk quickly – don’t run – along with everyone else to get to your train.

Walk through the security gates (you may be asked to show your ticket – printed out or on your phone).

Walk to your binario .

If your train hasn’t arrived yet, you’ll need to wait.  Otherwise, find your carriage number and hop on. 

Find your seat and enjoy the trip!

Helpful Tip:   If you’re running late and your train is about to depart, don’t worry about finding your carriage.  Just get on the train and then walk through the train to get to your carriage.

Note:   If you’re on a slower train, and don’t have a seat reservation, you’ll just need to find a carriage of your ticket type (for example, 2nd class).

Enjoy the Florence to Venice Train Ride

If you’re on a high-speed train from Florence to Venice, you’ll likely stop in Bologna, Ferrara, Padova, and Venice Mestre before arriving at Venice Santa Lucia.  Other people will get on and off at these stops.

There are toilets on the trains, and many will have a bar or restaurant carriage.

My boys enjoy going through the tunnel between Florence and Bologna and going across the water between Venice Mestre and Venice Santa Lucia train station.

Arrive in Venice

Important:  Remember, if you’re going to Venice (with the islands and canals – not the mainland), don’t get off at the Venice Mestre Station.

When you arrive at Venice Santa Lucia train station, you have a few options of how to get to where you want to go in Venice (your hotel, Piazza San Marco, etc). 

• Walk – This is a nice option if you don’t have luggage (or don’t have much).  Make sure you have a good map, either on your phone or a paper version.  I’m usually a big paper map fan, but Google Maps works just fine in Venice (but make sure you have a spare charge for your phone).
• Vaporetto (water bus) – Exit the train station, walk down the main steps in front of the Grand Canal and to the right on the canal you’ll see the ACTV stops where you can buy tickets (D) and catch the boats. 
• Water Taxi – If you’re coming to Venice with a lot of luggage or with your family, you may want to pay a little more and take a water taxi to your hotel.  They can be reserved in advance or you can get a water taxi in front of the station

Helpful Tip:   If you’ve just arrived to explore Venice and you aren’t in a hurry, a great intro is to take Line 1 along the Grand Canal and get off at the San Marco – San Zaccaria stop.  The boat slowly makes its way through the Grand Canal and you’ll get a nice look at the buildings, the Rialto bridge, and other boats (water taxis, water ambulances, postal boats, etc.).

Enjoy your time in Venice!

You may want to read about The Best Things to Do in Venice Venice with Kids Venice in Winter Venice at Night Islands of Venice

Tips for Taking the Florence to Venice Train with Kids

If it’s in your budget, take a fast train ( alta velocità ), so you can travel with A/C, cleaner bathrooms, and amenities like a restaurant carriage.

Check for family specials at least 3 days before your planned Florence to Venice trip.  The deals are great!

Pack a snack for the train.  You can get something at the grocery store next to the Florence train station, or pick something up at one of the cafes or the bookshop inside the train station.

Use the toilets on the train before you get off in Venice.

The most exciting part of the trip is the last few kilometers when the train goes over the water.

Read more about Italian Train Travel with Kids Day Trips from Florence with Kids

Florence to Venice Train FAQ

You can also drive from Florence to Venice (park in Piazzale Roma), take the bus, or hire a private driver.

While there is Uber in Italy, it’s not like the Uber you know in your home country. Read about Uber in Florence and its Alternatives .

Yes, you can. It will be a long day, but we do it sometimes. A nice time of year is December, when there are fewer crowds and you’ll get to see the holiday lights. It’s also lovely in Florence in December !

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Getting from Florence to Venice

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Welcome to this guide on getting from Florence to Venice.

Venice is an easy trip to plan from Florence, and spending time in both cities will only make you fall in love with Italy even more!

Venice is the capital city of the Veneto region, located in northeast Italy.

Known for its bridges crossing tens of canals dividing the unique urban landscape, Venice was built on more than 100 small islands.

This made of this city one of the most beautiful in the world, visited by thousands of people, all year round!

The amount of things to do and see is huge and, if planned wisely, even the most important attractions can be visited in just one day.

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Florence to Venice

As you know, Venice is a must-visit city and not to be missed, however, we’ll remind you of the reasons why Venice is worth visiting below.

If you are already in Florence be sure to read our 2 days in Florence itinerary before you take the road to Venice.

Is Venice worth visiting?

Are you’re looking for more places to visit from Florence because you already visited cities like Siena, San Gimignano, or Volterra?

If so, then taking a train or driving to Venice is a marvelous idea, and, you can even arrange this trip with little or no plan!

See some of the reasons to visit Venice below:

• Venice is a treasure chest of historical, architectural, and artistic gems. Just by heading out from the Venice Santa Lucia station, you feel blown away by the beauty of this city. The history of Venice goes back to the Middle Ages and the Serenissima Republic days when the political and economical influence of the city was immense. During those centuries, the city became a meeting point for people and cultures from all the countries facing the Mediterranean Sea, as well as from the Far East. The rich historical and architectural heritage you can admire is a testimony of the city’s glorious past.
• In Venice there’s so much to see and do. The most iconic landmarks are just a few meters away from each other. In St. Mark’s Square, you can visit the St. Mark’s Basilica, the bell tower, and Doge’s Palace. In only 10 minute walk down the Merceria street from St. Mark’s Square, you can reach the Rialto Bridge from where to enjoy one of the best views over the Grand Canal, and visit the nearby market.
• Even if spending just one day in Venice , don’t miss the chance to try its delicious cuisine. This is famous for fish and seafood appetizers and pasta dishes. There are options for meat-eaters, vegetarians, and vegans too! We recommend trying the ‘cicchetti’, a tapas style type of snack you can find in small restaurants and bars owned by local Venetians. In Venice, you’ll find a great selection of ‘trattorie’ and ‘osterie’ to try all the best of its food scene.

Despite the modes of transport mentioned in this guide. If you’re in a rush and you really don’t want to think or deal with public transport (or drive) you always can opt for a private transfer that will take you directly to Florence from Venice in a high class a Mercedes vehicle.

How far is Venice from Florence?

Florence, the capital city of Tuscany’s region, is 270 kilometers away from Venice. It’s possible to get to Venice by train or by car.

If traveling by train, it can take less than 4 hours and 30 minutes.

The train station in Florence is called Santa Maria Novella, and the name of the one where you’ll arrive to in Venice is Venezia Santa Lucia.

If you decide to hire a car , it’s going to take 3 hours to get to Venice.

We recommend staying one night in Venice to have time to enjoy Venice when traveling from Florence. Then travel back to Florence the day after (or to your next Italian destination).

For an authentic stay fairly close to Rialto Bridge Palazzo Bembo offers idyllic views over the Grand Canal without breaking the bank.

How to get from Florence to Venice

Booking accommodation in advance (at least 2 months before your trip!) in such a popular destination like Venice is imperative if you want to find a good place to spend your stay.

These are some hotels we recommend:

• UNAHOTELS Ala Venezia – Located just 10 minutes walk from St. Mark’s Square. The rooms overlook a canal or a square, so you can get immersed in the real Venetian lifestyle. This hotel is located inside an 18th-century palace that features Venetian furniture in all its double rooms. It’s the perfect place for couples looking for a romantic and relaxing stay.
• Palazzo Veneziano – A 4-star hotel is based in the Dorsoduro district, far from most of the crowds. There are economy, classic and superior double rooms. They feature parquet floors and marble bathrooms, some of them have a spa bath.
• Hotel L’Orologio – Located in the lively San Polo neighbourhood, close to the Rialto Bridge and Campo San Polo. It’s the ideal location to visit the main attractions of the city and get access to the best bacari and restaurants.

Now, it’s time to take a deeper look at all the options you have to travel from Florence to Venice and help you with making an informed decision about the best one for your travel plans.

Train from Florence to Venice

If you’re considering traveling to Venice by train from Florence, then there are a couple of train options you can get.

Trenitalia is the main website from where you can check and book your train tickets online or in any railway station ticket office.

With Trenitalia you can either choose the Frecciarossa high-speed trains or the regional trains. The Frecciarossa are fast and comfortable trains, but more importantly, these are direct trains.

The sooner you book your Frecciarossa train ticket, the better, as prices are definitely higher than for regional ones. If you want to save as much as possible and have enough time available to spend on the road, then you can also take regional trains.

In this case, there are 1 or 2 trains you’ll have to change to get to your destination. The other option is to travel with Italo for a fast and enjoyable journey on a high-speed train.

As for the Frecciarossa trains, we advise looking at your tickets as soon as possible. Check both websites to find the best deal!

Driving from Florence to Venice

If you prefer to rent a car and drive to Venice, then it will certainly take you less time than getting into any train. The time that it will take you is around 3 hours or less.

It’s suggested to use a GPS navigator to check if you may encounter any traffic jams or car accidents along the way.

The quick way to get to Venice by car from Florence is by taking the A1/E35 motorway for the longest stretch of road. This is also called the Autostrada del Sole.

After this one, you’ll take for a shorter time the A14 called Autostrada Adriatica, then the A13 connecting Bologna to Padua, and finally the A4 towards Venice.

If you want to check the tolls you need to pay for the motorways, you can look at the Autostrade website for more info.

When you’ll get to Venice you can either park in Mestre, the nearest mainland town, where most of the people park their car, or on the island of Tronchetto.

Here there’s a big car park, and you’ll notice directions to it when crossing the Liberty Bridge.

There’s an additional option if you’re traveling on a budget and like spending time on the road, which is getting to Venice by bus.

You can travel from Florence to Venice by Flixbus leaving from Villa Costanza Tram T1 and arriving at Venezia Mestre railway station or Tronchetto, depending on the ticket you select when booking online.

There is no change to do during your trips that will approximately last between 3 hours and 20 minutes (the faster option) to 4 hours and 40 minutes (the longest option).

The cost of your Flixbus ticket is around 10 euro one way. These buses are quite comfortable, and you can access free Wi-Fi, plugs to charge your electronic devices, toilette, and air-conditioning.

Venice Full-day Guided bus trip

If you don’t want to think how to get from Florence to Venice by public transport and not planning to hire a car to drive in Italy, then you should join a guided tour.

This full day Venice guided bus trip is perfect for you since round transportation from Florence to Venice is included in the price.

A professional guide will also be with you for the whole time, sharing insightful information and curiosities about Venice and Florence. It’s also available the bilingual live commentary on the coach (English and Spanish) and the Venice audio guide, if requested in advance.

Taking part in this tour it’s a great opportunity to not think about anything, but only enjoy the ride from the beautiful Florence to the Lagoon city in the Veneto region.

Cross the unique Tuscan countryside landscape and take pictures of the picturesque hills in Emilia Romagna before arriving in Venice.

Florence to Venice FAQs

Is the train ride from florence to venice scenic.

Yes, the ride from Florence to Venice is scenic as you’ll cross the Tuscan countryside, the Pennine mountains and the hills in Emilia Romagna. After Bologna, the view is less beautiful as you’ll mainly see the Po Valley until when you’ll get to the Liberty Bridge in Venice and finally get to the lagoon.

Can you do a guided tour from florence to venice?

Yes, you can. Joining a guided tour from Florence to visit Venice is the ideal option if you don’t want to think about how to get from one place to the other and don’t sort your own transportation. This guided tour one day in Venice is perfect as you’ll just need to turn up at the meeting point from where a luxury coach leaves. Enjoy the coach ride, befor you know it the tour leader will take you around the city of Venice to see its main attractions. On the top list there’s St. Mark’s Square and the Basilica, Doge’s Palace and gondolas constantly floating along the charming canals. If you wish to visit some museums you’ll have to purchase the ticket in advance, same for if you want to go on a gondola ride.

Is it worth driving from florence to venice?

Yes, it is. If you’re looking for complete freedom, stop along the way and enjoy the ride from Florence to Venice at your own pace, then driving is the best decision. During the journey you’ll have the chance to admire stunning scenery of the countryside and mountains. If you’re happy to make some stops, We recommend visiting Bologna , Ferrara and Padua.

Can you get from florence airport to venice by train?

Now you know how to get from Florence to Venice! If you can plan your trip in advance, you’ll get the high-speed train for a decent price.

If you are more into traveling low-cost, and willing to spend some hours on the road, then the bus is a valid alternative.

Either way, these uncomplicated solutions should meet your needs.

With all these options, you won’t have to think twice about traveling to Venice, which is a destination we suggest visiting from Florence.

Are you feeling inspired by this road trip? Take a look at our 2 weeks in Italy itinerary to get more ideas on what to do and where to go.

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There’s no better way to make the journey between Italy’s two most beautiful cities. The distance from Florence to Venice is 160 miles; some high-speed trains make this journey in just 2 hours and 5 minutes, while slower, regional trains can take up to 6 hours.

The Florence to Venice train travels north from the heart of Tuscany , through Italy’s scenic Tuscany and Emilia-Romagnia regions to the Adriatic coast. Many trains stop in Bologna en route to Venice. On the faster routes, you won’t be required to change trains. However, if you’re traveling on a slower and less expensive regional train, you may be required to transfer from one train to another.

Florence to Venice train times

Trains leave Florence Santa Maria Novella station a few times per hour for Venice's Santa Lucia station — averaging 52 trains per day. The earliest train leaves Florence Santa Maria Novella for Venice at 5:35 a.m. The last train to Venice leaves Florence at 9:30 p.m. 

Note that weekends and holidays typically mean less frequent service and sometimes longer travel times.

Amenities on the train between Florence and Venice

Many high-speed trains make the daily journey between Venice and Florence in just 2 hours and 5 minutes, traveling as fast as 155 miles per hour. 

Italy’s high-speed trains are equipped with air conditioning and electrical outlets at your seat to charge devices. There is wi-fi on trains , but the signal will drop in tunnels and at stations. Expect a cafe car on every train , as well as food cart that brings snacks, sandwiches and beverages to your seat. At the end of each car you’ll find a restroom and plenty of racks to store large luggage .

Firenze SMN train station is a hub for Italian and international high-speed and regional trains. Located in Florence’s central Piazza della Stazione, SMN station puts you conveniently close to Florence’s big attractions. Outside the station you’ll find taxis, a tourist information office, and stops for most of the city’s main bus routes.

Santa Lucia station, also known as Venezia S. Lucia, is the city’s central train station. Located across the Grand Canal from the historic Santa Croce district, Santa Lucia station provides high-speed train service to international and Italian destinations, as well as slower regional service to towns and cities throughout northeast Italy.

The Ultimate 7-Day Rome-Florence-Venice Itinerary by Train

A trip from Rome to Venice through the Tuscan hills of Italy is fantastic for families, couples, solo travelers, and literally anyone ( and their mama ) visiting Italy for the first time.

What’s more, this 7-day Rome-Florence-Venice itinerary hits a lot of the major historic and art-rich places we learned about in school, doesn’t break the bank, and is great all year round.

* This post may contain affiliate links from which I earn a commission (for more info, read my disclosure ). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

* I try to keep the information on this blog as updated as possible, but I still recommend consulting the latest prices, opening hours, and other details on the official website of each site, hotel, and tour, as well as checking the updated public transport routes and timetables.

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Itinerary Overview

I’m Mariana, and I’ve spent months traveling through Italy, hiking in the Dolomites, visiting the sites, and drinking Aperol on as many Italian beaches as possible.

I’ve also done this Rome to Venice route a few times, and from my experience, here’s the best route and time in each place: 

• 3 Days in Rome  – Vatican, Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Roman History
• 2 Days in Florence  – Cathedral, Best Art Museum in Italy, Michelin Experience, a day tour to San Gimignano & Leaning Tower of Pisa
• 2 Days in Venice  – Gondola Ride, Basilica and Palazzo, Glass Blowing

Highly-rated accommodation in Rome: Domus Æterna – Re di Roma or D.R.Rome Spanish Luxury Suites .

Highly-rated accommodation in Florence: Atelier delle Grazie , San Giuliano Inn , or B&B Stupido Hotel .

Highly-rated accommodation in Venice: Venice Suite Dorsoduro or Palazzetto Barnaba .

My favorite time to  visit Italy is in the spring  and autumn when the vineyards are showing off.

Surprisingly, this whole trip is best done via train, and that’s how I recommend it. Renting a car would actually be more of a hassle on the tiny and busy streets of all these cities, and the train system is so cheap, nice, and well-connected, it would be a shame not to use it.

Book your train tickets in advance on Omio (formerly GoEuro).

So let’s jump into what to do and see, a few local tips for each city, and my travel recommendations. 

A 7-Day Rome-Florence-Venice Itinerary

You can actually do this route starting in Rome or Venice (Venice-Florence-Rome), as both have great airports and train stations connecting each other. I’ve always started in Rome, so this is the way I recommend it.

Day 1: Arrive in Rome

I’m pretty sure Rome is the most visited city in Europe, and so there’s a reason why I recommend at least 3 days (minimum) in the city center. 

Rome is a fantastic blend of historical sites, art, beautiful people, and culinary experiences that make it a great start to the trip.

I’m going to share the top things to see today, but remember to take time to simply enjoy the “dolce vita” – the sweet life – that Rome preaches:

1. Pantheon:  This ancient temple, now a church, is renowned for its perfect proportions and its oculus, an opening in the dome that shines light inside the interior beautifully.  You will have to cover your shoulders for this one! You can also book a guided Pantheon tour.

2. Trevi Fountain:  One of the most famous fountains in the world, the Trevi Fountain is a baroque masterpiece. Tradition says that throwing a coin into the fountain ensures you fall in love with an Italian by the end of the trip. You can explore it with this free Rome walking tour.

3. Piazza Navona:  Known for its baroque architecture, street artists, and cafes, Piazza Navona is a charming place to relax and soak in the atmosphere of Rome. This is a great lunch and dinner spot!

4. Spanish Steps:  A great spot for people-watching, the Spanish Steps are a famous meeting place and lead to the Trinità dei Monti church (a must-see).

No trip to Rome is complete without stuffing your face full of Italian food. Try dishes like Carbonara, Cacio e Pepe, and authentic gelato. Don’t worry, you can walk it off after!

Day 2: Explore the Vatican

Today is all about the Catholic Church. It will take a full day to explore the Vatican City and Trastevere neighborhood across the river, and I highly recommend booking your Vatican tours ahead of time.

Here’s what’s on the daily agenda:

1. Vatican City:  Home to the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican City is a must. Michelangelo’s frescoes in the Sistine Chapel and the stunning architecture of St. Peter’s Basilica are ‘wow’! Book your tour here or purchase a skip-the-lines ticket .

2. Explore Trastevere:  This picturesque neighborhood is known for its narrow cobbled streets, vibrant nightlife, and traditional Roman trattorias. It’s a great area to have lunch and dinner.

3. Walk Along the Tiber River:  Especially in the evening, a stroll along the Tiber is a peaceful break from the crazy city streets.

Day 3: Explore Rome

On your last day in Rome, you’re going to do as much as you can during the day, and then catch a late afternoon train (2 hrs) to Florence:

1. Visit the Colosseum and Roman Forum:  Explore the iconic Colosseum, a symbol of Rome’s ancient power and engineering. Nearby, the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill ruins are also great! You can book a tour to visit both sites with a guide or get a skip-the-lines ticket .

2. Galleria Borghese:  Set in the beautiful Villa Borghese Park, this museum houses a substantial collection of art, including works by Caravaggio, Bernini, and Raphael. Be sure to purchase your ticket in advance .

In the afternoon, take the 2-hour train to Florence’s Santa Maria Novella station and get ready for the next leg of this Italian trip.

Day 4: Explore Florence

No rest for the wicked! I’ve done all of these things in one day, with the help of 7 espressos along the way:

1. Uffizi Gallery Tour:  Home to the world’s greatest collection of Italian Renaissance art, including masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci. You MUST get a ticket and timeslot ahead of time.

2. Duomo – Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore:  Florence’s most iconic landmark. While you can go in, the lines are insane, so just passing by it and having a coffee is fine.

3. Ponte Vecchio:  The oldest bridge in Florence, known for its jewelry shops and picturesque views over the Arno River.

4. Accademia Gallery:  Famous for Michelangelo’s David, this gallery also houses an impressive collection of Renaissance paintings and sculptures. You can buy your ticket in advance.

5. Beautiful piazzas:  Piazza della Repubblica and Piazza della Signoria. You can explore them with the free Florence walking tour.

6. Boboli Gardens:  Behind the Pitti Palace, these beautifully landscaped gardens offer a peaceful escape with stunning views of the city. If you have to skip out on anything, maybe scrap these.

I was shocked by how many Michelin restaurants there are in Florence and was glad to take advantage of the foodie nature of this city. Make a reservation ahead of time – a usual nice dinner with wine goes to €100-150.

DAY 5: DAY TRIP TO PISA & SAN GIMIGNIANO

Really close to Florence is the cutest little Tuscan town, San Gimignano, followed by the city of Pisa further west.

The best way to visit both of these is by booking a tour – this way, you get the history buff tour guide and the transportation. I know it doesn’t seem like a lot, but it’s a full day.

Book your Pisa & San Gimignano tour !

Day 6: Explore Venice

I left Florence on the early morning train and headed to Venice. It took about 2 hours – make sure you grab a coffee and breakfast to go for the train ride.

Venice blew my mind! I don’t know what I was expecting, but it was much more romantic and charming than I realized. Here are the top things to do in Venice, which you can split over the two days:

1. St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco):  The heart of Venice, home to the stunning St. Mark’s Basilica, the Campanile bell tower, and the Doge’s Palace. The square is a hub of activity and a perfect starting point for your visit.

2. Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale):  Explore this symbol of Venice’s wealth and power, with its magnificent rooms, artwork, and the famous Bridge of Sighs. You can also book a tour of the Doge’s Palace & St. Mark’s Basilica.

3. Rialto Bridge and Market: Visit the oldest bridge across the Grand Canal, a lively area filled with shops, and the nearby Rialto Market, known for its fresh produce and seafood.

4. Grand Canal Tour:  Take a gondola or Vaporetto (water bus) ride along the Grand Canal to witness the magic of Venetian architecture and life along the waterways. A gondola ride is about an hour and should cost about €80.

If possible, attend a performance or take a tour of the famous and beautifully restored opera house, and wander the less-traveled paths and canals to discover hidden squares and charming cafés away from the crowds.

Day 7: Explore Venice

On the last day of this Rome to Venice trip, it’s all about going beyond the touristy sites.

For lunch, make sure you sample local goodies like Cicchetti (Venetian tapas), any of the fresh seafood on the menu, and traditional dishes like risotto nero (squid ink risotto) and sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines).

In the afternoon, take a boat trip to Murano and Burano Islands nearby. Murano is famous for its glass-making, while Burano is known for its lace-making and brightly colored houses. Vaporettos (water taxis) are your friend for these trips. You can also book an excursion.

From here, you can either take the train back to Rome the next morning or fly on to your next destination – or home!

Getting From Rome to Venice

Traveling from Rome to Venice can be done in several ways, each with its own pros and cons. I recommend doing this Italy itinerary by train, but I wanted to show you what’s possible.

✅The best way to do this trip is by train.  Italy’s high-speed trains, like Frecciarossa, connect Rome to Venice in about 3.5 to 4 hours, with so many stops along the way to break up the trip – like Florence and Bologna.

Trains are punctual, fast, and allow you to enjoy the scenery without the stress of driving. The downside is the lack of flexibility; you’re limited to the train schedule and routes, and there’s less opportunity for spontaneous exploration.

✅Driving is the most flexible way to get from Rome to Venice.  You have the freedom to stop in cute little towns and scenic spots along the way – and there are plenty.

However, driving in Italy can be challenging due to traffic, especially in cities, and parking can be expensive and tough to find.

What’s more, navigating the ZTL (Limited Traffic Zones) in places like Rome, Florence, and Venice requires planning to avoid fines.

✅Flying is the quickest way to travel between Rome and Venice , with the flight time being just over an hour. However, when you factor in the time for airport transfers, security checks, and waiting at the airport, it may not save much time compared to the train.

Also, you miss out on the scenic journey and the chance to visit places between the two cities.

Each mode of transportation gives you a unique experience, so your choice depends on your priorities, whether it’s flexibility, speed, comfort, or the opportunity to explore.

Travel Tips for This 7-Day Rome-Florence-Venice Trip

If it’s your first time in Italy, you might find a few of these surprising. Nevertheless, here are some practical tips to help make your journey smooth:

✔️Plan and Book In Advance: Decide on the places you want to visit along the way. Besides major cities like Florence, consider adding smaller towns and countryside stops, like San Giminiano and Siena.

And for the love of baby Jesus, book your hotels and AirBnBs ahead of time, especially in peak tourist season (which is always). 

✔️Don’t Rent a Car:  It will actually be more of a hassle on this particular route because the trains are super well-connected, cheap, and nice. What’s more, Venice is a car-free zone.

For little day trips to vineyards and cute little villages, there are amazing small-group tours you can book that give you a bomb-ass guide and handle the transport and entry tickets for you.

PRO TIP:  Many Italian cities, including Rome and Venice, have ZTL areas where non-residential vehicles are restricted – there will be signs. If you do rent a car for whatever reason, plan to park outside these areas to avoid hefty fines. In Venice, park at the Tronchetto or in Mestre and use public transport to get into the city.

✔️Pack Right:  Bring a little backpack with you at all times, and fill it with your charger (don’t forget the European adapter), a water bottle (especially in the summer), and snacks (which you can buy along the way).

Comfortable walking shoes are a must. So is one cute night outfit, because you’re going to some of the most romantic places in Italy.

✔️Be Flexible:  While it’s good to have a plan, be open to spontaneous detours or stops. Some of the best experiences come from unplanned adventures. Like why not skip the Vatican and take a day trip to Pompei or Naples?

✔️Learn Basic Italian:  Phrases for greetings, directions, the bathroom, and ordering food will be particularly helpful. And maybe a few curse words, just for fun.

✔️Show some Respect:  Dress appropriately when visiting religious sites, cover your shoulders and head in all churches, and be nice when chatting it up with locals. And  tip your waiter !

✔️Don’t Be A Tourist:  Don’t put your wallet in the back pocket of your jeans, and don’t leave your phone on the table as you eat (like I do in the States), because that makes you an easy target for petty thieves.

That said, Italy is pretty safe, so just apply the same watchful eye as you might in New York City.

FAQ: Rome-Florence-Venice by Train

Is it worth taking a day trip from rome to venice.

Not really. The fastest train from Rome to Venice is just under 4 hours. Driving will take almost 6 hours. And while a flight takes 1 hour, getting to and from the airport, will add a few more hours. 

What Are the Best Places to Stop Between Rome and Venice?

I think the top 5 best places to stop on this route are:

1.  Florence : Known as the cradle of the Renaissance, Florence is the epicenter of art, architecture, and history in Italy. Visit the Uffizi Gallery to see works by Michelangelo and Botticelli, and don’t miss the iconic Duomo. 

2.  Siena : This medieval town in Tuscany is famous for its historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Highlights include the Piazza del Campo and the Siena Cathedral. The Tuscan countryside around Siena, known for its vineyards, is the backdrop to my phone.

3.  Bologna : Often overlooked, Bologna is a hidden gem. I love it for its rich food culture (think authentic Bolognese sauce).

4.  Verona : Famous as the setting for Shakespeare’s  Romeo and Juliet , Verona is a city for lovers. Visit Juliet’s House and explore the ancient Roman arena here.

5.  Padua : Before reaching Venice, stop in Padua, known for its historic architecture and art. The Scrovegni Chapel, with frescoes by Giotto, is a highlight. Padua also has a lively market and beautiful botanical gardens, the oldest in the world.

Each of these stops gives you a unique slice of Italian culture and history, making your Rome-Florence-Venice travel itinerary just a bit more authentic. 

PRO TIP : Remember to check the opening times of everything and book tickets in advance (trust me!) to make the most of your stops.

Is a Road Trip Through Italy a Good Idea?

Although this itinerary is better done by train, a road trip through Italy is a fantastic idea, especially if you love Italian food and art history, and value the old-school charm of “ dolce vita ” life. More specifically, here’s a few reasons to hit up Italy for a road trip: 

Pretty Landscapes : From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the rugged  coastlines of Amalfi , a road trip through any part of Italy will showcase some pretty epic scenery. 

Rich Culture : Every region has its unique heritage, from ancient Roman ruins in Rome to Renaissance art in Florence. Road-tripping lets you explore cultural gems like the Tower of Pisa, a Tuscan winery, the Vatican, and the canals of Venice at your own pace.

Yummy Food:  Italy is a paradise for foodies, from the ragú in Naples to seafood in Sicily. You’ll be shocked to know that Italy is more than just pizza and pasta.

Charming Villages:  Beyond the major cities, Italy is dotted with cute little towns and villages, often less visited by tourists. Road tripping (even by train) gives you the freedom to discover these hidden gems and experience the authentic Italian way of life.

Final Thoughts

I’ve spent months traveling through Italy – I’ve tried this Rome to Venice itinerary a few times, and I think the best way to get from one spot to another is by train.

I recommend  visiting Italy in the spring  or fall months when the tourist crowds are more manageable and it’s not so blistering hot in Italy.

Bio:  Mariana Barbuceanu is the owner and author of the Road Trip EuroGuide, a blog that inspires fellow wanderers to explore Europe more authentically through slower travel and digging deeper into the culture of a place. When she isn’t writing about her adventures, she is planning trips for her community and coaching people on how to take that next step toward a much-needed sabbatical.

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I'm a passionate traveler obsessed with traveling in Europe and discovering hidden gems in each place I visit. For me, it's not about ticking destinations off the bucket list but experiencing each one of them to the fullest. Read more about me and my story.

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Pay to enter: Venice becomes the first city to implement a tourist ticket system

Venice became the first city in the world on Thursday to introduce a payment system for visitors in an experiment aimed at dissuading tourists from arriving during peak periods.

However, it isn't the only place in Italy that has recently introduced new measures aimed at slowing tourist flows.

Here are some of the initiatives currently in force.

Venice tourist tax

The lagoon city has introduced 5 euros (about $5.35) tickets for day trippers, valid from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. The experiment came into force on April 25, a national holiday in Italy. Tickets will be needed for the following 10 days and thereafter for most weekends until mid-July.

Venice residents, students, workers, and homeowners are exempt from paying or booking a slot. Visitors aged under 14 and tourists with hotel reservations will need to register, but access for them will be free of charge.

Other cities, such as Como, have said they are considering introducing a similar measure but are waiting to see how the Venice initiative works before deciding.

In addition, Venice has said that from June, it will limit the size of tourist groups to 25 people and ban the use of loudspeakers by tour guides.

Florence tourist measure

Florence announced in October that it was banning new short-term residential lets on platforms such as Airbnb in its historic center. It also offered three years of tax breaks to landlords of short-term holiday lets who start offering ordinary leases for residents.

The city's famous museum, the Uffizi, offers discounts to people who arrive before 8.55 a.m. and lower prices off-season. To spread out crowds, it also closes at 10 p.m. once a week.

Cinque Terrer overtourism

The five villages that make up the Cinque Terre on the Italian Riviera regularly get swamped with visitors.

To try to reduce the overcrowding at peak periods, the authority which oversees the area said this week it would charge visitors 15 euros (about $16) to walk the most celebrated coastal path. In addition, the path can only be walked in one direction.

Capri tourism measure

The picturesque small island that lies across the bay from the southern city of Naples has doubled its entry fee, which is automatically added to ferry tickets, to 5 euros. The fee will be charged from April 1 to October 1.

Capri, Ischia, Procida, Lampedusa and Linosa changes

These islands have introduced limits, or outright bans, on cars for non-residents during the main tourist season.

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What to Know About Venice’s Fees for Day Trips

Venice is trying to mitigate overtourism with a small fee on busy days. City leaders hope it will make visitors more aware of the city’s fragility.

By Elisabetta Povoledo

Reporting from Rome

After years of debate , Venice on Thursday began charging day visitors five euros to visit its fragile historic center on peak days, making it the first city in the world to adopt such a measure to counter overtourism.

Critics question whether a nominal fee will put people off from visiting one of the world’s most desired destinations. But officials hope that it might encourage some to rethink their plans and decide to come on weekdays or in the off-season.

That might help mitigate the impact of the estimated 20 million visitors who descended last year on the city’s beleaguered residents, who number fewer than 50,000, according to municipal statistics . About half of those visitors came only for the day, city officials said. Overnight guests are exempt from the fee.

The spirit of the initiative, city officials have said, is to make people aware of the uniqueness — and fragility — of Venice. Overtourism is creating an economy solely based on tourism that risks killing the city by pushing its dwindling residents out, said Nicola Camatti, an economics professor and expert in tourism at Ca’ Foscari University of Venice.

When will Venice start charging?

The fee went into effect on Thursday, a holiday in Italy. For 2024, city officials have singled out 29 peak days when single-day travelers in Venice between 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. have to pay. The days run until mid-July and are mostly on national holidays and weekends. The access-fee website provides a list of the dates.

Who must pay?

While just about everyone visiting the city has to register to obtain a QR code, not all visitors have to pay the fee. Overnight guests at registered accommodations like hotels or Airbnbs are exempt, because they already pay a daily tourist tax, as are people who study or work in Venice and those visiting relatives. There are other exemptions as well.

Residents of Venice, those born there and minors under 14 are among those who do not have to register. But they must have documents that prove their status.

It is possible that different fees will apply next year on a sliding scale that will depend on how many people city officials expect on any one day. City officials said the fees could be as high as 10 euros per day.

How will the system work?

Before coming to Venice on peak days, visitors should use the website to register and get a QR code.

The code will be scanned at points where visitors enter, like the train station, the city parking lot, the airport and the sprawling waterfront along the San Marco basin where boats dock. The access points will have one line for tourists and another for residents and what officials call city users, who are coming into Venice for reasons other than sightseeing.

At least for now, those who do not register ahead of time can do so at some access points or on their cellphones, officials said. Assistants will be available.

Initially, the controls will be “very soft,” said Michele Zuin, the municipal councilor responsible for the city’s budget.

Speaking to reporters at the foreign press association in Rome this month, Mayor Luigi Brugnaro said the fee was not about cashing in on tourists. “The costs of the operation are higher than what we’re going to make,” he said.

Why is Venice doing this?

City officials hope to relieve some of the stress that tourists put on the city by encouraging them to come on less busy days. They also say that by knowing ahead of time how many visitors to expect, the city can better deploy services.

“We want to better manage the numbers of tourists and disincentivize mass tourism” that makes it difficult for residents and visitors to “live in this city,” Mr. Zuin said this month.

To track the flow of visitors, the city already monitors them via phone location data and surveillance cameras, a system some critics have likened to Big Brother .

Venice has also fallen under the scrutiny of the United Nations’ culture agency, UNESCO, whose experts are concerned that not enough is being done to protect the city. Last year, Venice risked being added to UNESCO’s list of Endangered World Heritage Sites after experts at the agency listed mass tourism , along with climate change and development, as a major threat to its future. It urged City Hall to take steps to ameliorate the damage.

The municipal council approved the access fee just days before UNESCO was to vote on its status, and Venice stayed off the “in danger” list . But UNESCO officials said in a statement that “further progress still needs to be made” to conserve Venice.

Critics of the access fee note that officials have not capped the number of visitors, and they say that the nominal fee is hardly a deterrent. As recently as Friday, city officials said that about 80,000 visitors swelled the city’s narrow calli, as the streets are known, and the gardens of the 2024 Venice Biennale , still the world’s principal place to discover new art .

How else is Venice trying to restrict visitors?

Venice also has taken other steps it hopes will reduce what city officials call “mordi e fuggi” tourism, or “eat and flee,” referring to those who seek the city’s greatest hits — the Rialto Bridge and St. Mark’s Square — and who bring packed lunches and dump their garbage, contributing little to the local economy.

After years of heated debate and protests by vocal Venetians, the city banned cruise ships from its inner canals in 2021 , though Mr. Camatti, the tourism expert, said the ban on the ships had not reduced the number of day visitors.

This year, the city imposed a limit of 25 people per tour group and also banned the use of megaphones.

Elisabetta Povoledo is a reporter based in Rome, covering Italy, the Vatican and the culture of the region. She has been a journalist for 35 years. More about Elisabetta Povoledo

Venice launches world first tourist entrance fee in bid to fight overcrowding

VENICE, Italy — Ancient and beautiful, this city is sometimes referred to as an open air museum — and now visitors to Venice will have to pay an entry fee after the tourist hub on Thursday became the first in the world to introduce a charging system for day-trippers.

In a bid to thin out the crowds that throng to see the canals, bridges and striking architecture during vacation season, day-trippers will have to pay 5 euros ($5.35) to enter the lagoon city on 29 peak days, mostly on weekends, as part of a trial phase until July 14. 

Tourists who have booked at least one night at a hotel in the city will be exempt from the charge, as will residents, workers and students in the city. Visitors under age 14 will also be exempt. But like the day-trippers, they will also have to ensure they have registered online and received QR codes.  

Those without smartphones will have to go to the city’s Santa Lucia train station to buy tickets. 

Among the thousands of people lining up at the station for a ticket Thursday was Donna Porter-Mutchler, a tourist from Tennessee, who told NBC News she thought the charge was “a wonderful idea.”  

“Venice deserves to be taken care of,” she said. “I think it’s more than worth it. I come here often, and I’ll pay every time.” 

While there will be no limits on the number of people who can register, officials hope the fee will put people off on days it applies. 

“We are not looking to collect money, tax people or introduce a police state,” Simone Venturini, Venice’s tourism councilor, told NBC News. “We are being democratic about it, but the important message is: ‘Please, if you are a day-tripper, choose another day.’”

While there are no turnstiles at the city’s entrance points to make sure people have passes, inspectors will make random checks and issue fines of 50 to 300 euros to anyone who has failed to register.

Prominent signs across the city and a TV and newspaper advertising campaign have been launched in Italy and some other countries to let people know about it. And with the help of artificial intelligence , Mayor Luigi Brugnaro has also recorded a video message in several languages to inform tourists about the charge.  

Officials in the city estimate an average of 50,000 people a day visit Venice, an influx that almost matches the resident population, some of whom are unhappy about the new charge.  

“Venice has turned into Disneyland, where tourists are catered more than residents, and charging $5 is not going to stop anyone,” Federica Toninello of the Social Assembly for Housing and the Solidarity Network for Housing in Venice said Thursday. “It’s just propaganda.”

Others, like tourist guide Luisella Romeo, said they were concerned about the use of personal data collected by the new system. “That’s an invasion of privacy. Those details will remain in the system for five years and could be given to third parties, public and private,” she said. 

But officials in the city, which narrowly escaped being placed on UNESCO’s “World Heritage in Danger” list last year, in part because the United Nations body decided that it was not addressing concerns that its delicate ecosystem risked being overwhelmed by mass tourism, have insisted that something needed to be done. 

Three years ago, large cruise ships were banned from sailing into the Venetian lagoon , and the city has also announced limits on the sizes of tourist groups.

While the charge in Venice is still in its experimental stage, other popular Italian tourism destinations, like Lake Como, which has struggled with overcrowding for years, are watching closely.

Only time will tell whether it ends up dead in the water.  

Claudio Lavanga is Rome-based foreign correspondent for NBC News.

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Venice tests a 5-euro fee for day-trippers as the city grapples with overtourism

The Associated Press

Stewards check tourists' QR code access outside the main train station in Venice, Italy, on Thursday. Luca Bruno/AP hide caption

Stewards check tourists' QR code access outside the main train station in Venice, Italy, on Thursday.

VENICE, Italy — Under the gaze of the world's media, the fragile lagoon city of Venice launched a pilot program Thursday to charge day-trippers a 5-euro (around $5.35) entry fee that authorities hope will discourage visitors from arriving on peak days and make the city more livable for its dwindling residents.

Visitors arriving at Venice's main train station were greeted with large signs listing the 29 dates through July of the plan's test phase that also designated separate entrances for tourists, and residents, students and workers.

Venice will limit tour groups to 25 people and ban loudspeakers to control tourism

"We need to find a new balance between the tourists and residents,'' said Simone Venturini, the city's top tourism official. "We need to safeguard the spaces of the residents, of course, and we need to discourage the arrival of day-trippers on some particular days."

Not all residents, however, are persuaded of the efficacy of the new system in dissuading mass tourism , insisting that only a resurgence in the population will restore balance to a city where narrow alleyways and water buses are often clogged with tourists.

Hundreds of Venetians protested against the program, marching festively though the city's main bus terminal behind banners reading "No to Tickets, Yes to Services and Housing." Protesters scuffled briefly with police with riot gear who blocked them from entering the city, before changing course and entering over another bridge escorted by plainclothes police. The demonstration wrapped up peacefully in a piazza.

Citizens and activists stage a protest against Venice Tax Fee in Venice on Thursday. Luca Bruno/AP hide caption

Citizens and activists stage a protest against Venice Tax Fee in Venice on Thursday.

Tourists arriving at the main station encountered almost as many journalists as stewards on hand to politely guide anyone unaware of the new requirements through the process of downloading the QR code to pay the fee.

Arianna Cecilia, a tourist from Rome visiting Venice for the first time, said she thought it was "strange" to have to pay to enter a city in her native country, and be funneled through separate entrance ways for tourists. She and her boyfriend were staying in nearby Treviso, and so downloaded the QR code as required, but she was still caught off-guard while soaking in her first view ever of Venice's canals by the sight of the entrance signs and her boyfriend telling her to get out the ticket.

On the other side of the entrance ways, workers in yellow vests carried out random checks at the train station. Transgressors faces fines of 50 to 300 euros ($53 to $320), but officials said "common sense" was being applied for the launch.

With Waters Rising And Its Population Falling, What Is Venice's Future?

The requirement applies only for people arriving between 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. Outside of those hours, access is free and unchecked.

Venice has long suffered under the pressure of overtourism, and officials hope that the pilot project can help provide more exact figures to better manage the phenomenon.

The city can track the number of hotel visitors, which last year numbered 4.6 million and is down 16% from pre-pandemic highs. But the number of day visitors, which make up the majority of the crowds in Venice, could only be estimated until recently.

Stewards check a tourist's QR code access outside the main train station in Venice. Luca Bruno/AP hide caption

Stewards check a tourist's QR code access outside the main train station in Venice.

A Smart Control Room set up during the pandemic has been tracking arrivals from cellphone data, roughly confirming pre-pandemic estimates of 25 million to 30 million arrivals a year, said Michele Zuin, the city's top economic official. That includes both day-trippers and overnight guests.

But Zuin said the data is incomplete.

"It's clear we will get more reliable data from the contribution" being paid by day-trippers, he said.

Venturini said the city is strained when the number of day-trippers reaches 30,000 to 40,000. On peak days, local police set up one-way traffic for pedestrians to keep the crowds moving.

Residents opposing the day-tripper tax insist that the solution to Venice's woes are to boost the resident population and the services they need, limiting short-term rentals to make available more housing and attract families back from the mainland.

Last year, Venice passed a telling milestone when the number of tourist beds exceeded for the first time the number of official residents, which is now below 50,000 in the historic center with its picturesque canals.

Venice mayor calls out 'imbeciles' surfing Italian city's historic canals

"Putting a ticket to enter a city will not decrease not even by one single unit the number of visitors that are coming,'' said Tommaso Cacciari, an activist who organized a protest Thursday against the measure.

"You pay a ticket to take the metro, to go to a museum, an amusement park. You don't pay a ticket to enter a city. This is the last symbolic step of a project of an idea of this municipal administration to kick residents out of Venice," he said.

Venice officials expected paid day-tripper arrivals Thursday to reach about 10,000. More than 70,000 others had downloaded a QR code denoting an exemption, including to work in Venice or as a resident of the Veneto region. Hotels in Venice, including in mainland districts like Marghera or Mestre, should provide a QR code attesting to their stay, which includes a hotel tax.

Venturini, the tourist official, said that interest in Venice's pilot program has been keen from other places suffering from mass tourism, including other Italian art cities, and municipalities abroad such as Barcelona, Spain, and Amsterdam.

But Marina Rodino, who has lived in Venice for 30 years, doesn't see the fee as the cure-all. Neighboring apartments in her residential building near the famed Rialto Bridge once inhabited by families are now short-term apartment rentals.

The corner butcher shop closed. Yet she noted that the new entrance fee requirement will still allow young people to flood the city in the evening for the traditional aperitivo, which can grow rowdy.

She was passing out mock European Union passports for "Venice, Open City," underlining the irony of the new system, and challenging its legal standing with citations from the Italian Constitution guaranteeing its citizens the right to "move or reside freely in any part of the national territory."

"This is not a natural oasis. This is not a museum. It is not Pompeii. It is a city, where we need to fight so the houses are inhabited by families, and stores reopen. That is what would counter this wild tourism,'' Rodino said.

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Venice access fee: what is it and how much does it cost?

The Italian Unesco site is hoping to reduce over-tourism with the charge – the first of its kind in a major city

After years in the making, Venice will on Thursday begin charging day trippers to enter the city in an effort to protect the Unesco world heritage site from the effects of over-tourism.

While the measure has ignited criticism and derision from some, who argue it is unconstitutional and restrictive of freedom of movement – the Venice mayor, Luigi Brugnaro, has compared his “bravery” in enacting the charge to that of the Venetian explorer Marco Polo, in daring to go where others have feared to tread.

In some ways this is true: Venice will become the first major city in the world to adopt such an initiative, and others grappling with the impact of mass tourism are keenly observing.

However, will this bold experiment work in practice? Will it help save Venice, a uniquely beautiful city that campaigners have warned for decades is in peril? And – most importantly, perhaps, for anyone looking to book their trip – how do you buy your tickets?

Why is this being introduced?

According to Simone Venturini, the city’s councillor for tourism, Venice “affixed itself” to mass tourism in the 1960s and since then visitor numbers have surged to the point that during the busiest periods of the year it attracts an average of 40,000 people a day.

That number has put pressure on the fragile lagoon, while pushing residents away from the main island. Brugnaro said he wanted to make Venice “livable” again.

However, the final push to enact the measure came after Unesco threatened last year to put Venice on its list of heritage sites in danger, citing mass tourism and rising water levels attributed to climate change.

While Venice has moved to counter mass tourism in recent years by banning huge cruise ships from chugging through its centre, the city only escaped the potential shame of losing its Unesco status after the access charge was agreed.

How much is the charge and who has to pay?

The “Venice access fee” costs €5 (£4.30). It could be worse – when the idea was first suggested it was €10. Only day trippers have to pay. Residents, commuters, students and children under 14 are exempt, as are tourists who stay overnight. Critics of the scheme say the €5 is unlikely to deter many people.

How do I buy a ticket, and on which dates is one required?

The tickets are bookable online and apply on 29 peak dates between 25 April and 14 July. The dates are listed on the site. You will be provided with a QR code on your phone – guard it as this is the proof that you have paid the fee.

Hang on, Venice is a massive place with dozens of islands. Where exactly does it apply?

The charge applies only to those entering the historic centre of Venice between 8.30am and 4pm on any of the peak dates. That includes the Rialto Bridge, St Mark’s Square, La Fenice opera house and many other top-drawer tourist attractions, as well as quieter neighbourhoods such as the island of Giudecca.

What if I arrive in Venice without the QR code or I don’t have access to a mobile phone?

Fear not. When you arrive in Venice, says the council, be it by train, bus, or boat, stewards wearing white bibs featuring the city’s logo will guide you through buying the ticket online and downloading the QR code.

Those without a phone can pay at water taxi stations or in tabacchi shops, Venturini says.

The five key entrance points are Venezia Santa Lucia train station, bus terminals at Piazzale Roma and Tronchetto, and vaporetti (water bus) stops at Zattere and the Riva degli Schiavoni, the waterfront that covers the entrance to St Mark’s Square.

How will the measure be implemented?

Brugnaro has promised the system will be imposed with “very soft controls” and “without queues”, rejecting speculation the city would be installing barriers or turnstiles in the streets.

In effect, the authorities hope the measure will be implemented by means of a fleet of 180 personnel, made up of volunteer stewards, council staff and public officials. Those wearing white bibs are there to inform, while those wearing yellow bibs are there to do random checks and have the power to issue fines for those without a QR code.

Venturini said that if you arrived without one and did not approach someone in a white bib for information, and you were then spot-checked by someone in a yellow bib, you would risk being fined.

And how bad are the penalties?

Fines range from €50 to €300. “Don’t worry, nobody will be arrested for not having paid the fee,” said a council spokesperson.

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