Venice, known for its enchanting canals and rich history, has long been a top destination for tourists worldwide. With its romantic gondola rides and exquisite art galleries, it may not be the first location that springs to mind when planning a family vacation. However, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the plethora of worthwhile family-friendly activities Venice has to offer !
From arriving at Marco Polo or Treviso airport to navigating this fascinating city with vaporetto passes, this guide will share the must-do family activities and tips to make your visit to Venice a memorable experience.
Arriving in Venice: Navigating Marco Polo or Treviso Airport
Getting from Marco Polo Airport to your hotel
Marco Polo Airport (VCE) is the main international airport serving Venice. Upon arrival at the airport, there are several transportation options ( venice airport to venice ) to get your family to your accommodation in Venice:
- Water taxis: This convenient yet pricier option will take you directly to your hotel, giving you time to relax and admire the charming Venetian architecture.
- Shared water shuttles: A more economical water transport solution, shared shuttles drop off passengers near their hotels along the main canal routes.
- Vaporettos: The local public waterbus service offers routes to various parts of Venice from the airport. Venezia Unica City Pass provides access to these boats for visitors to travel on public transport conveniently during their stay.
- ATVO buses: For those staying on the mainland, ATVO buses provide transportation to Mestre and the Venezia Santa Lucia train station.
Reaching Venice from Treviso Airport
If you are flying into Treviso Airport (TSF), buses operated by ATVO and Terravision connect to various locations in Venice, such as Piazzale Roma.
Vaporetto Passes: Family-Friendly Public Transport Options in Venice
The most common method of transportation within Venice is the vaporetto, a public waterbus that traverses its historic canals. A smart investment for families visiting Venice is utilizing vaporetto passes like Venezia Unica City Pass, giving tourists an inexpensive tool to access all public transport services during their stay.
Venezia Unica City Pass offers flexible pricing options based on the duration of your stay and includes unlimited access to:
- Vaporettos
- Buses (including airport connections)
- Mainland trams
- Lido Island ferries
Proof of age may be required for children, so ensure you have relevant identification documents with you when purchasing passes.
Must-See Family Activities in Venice
Explore the Lido Island Beaches
A less-known aspect of Venice is its beautiful beaches situated on the Lido Island – a simple hop on a ferry or vaporetto away from central Venice. Whether you prefer lounging under umbrellas or partaking in watersports, it is certain to be a fun-filled day for the whole family.
Discover the Peggy Guggenheim Collection
Kids and art enthusiasts alike will enjoy exploring the renowned Peggy Guggenheim Collection, one of Venice’s leading modern art museums. With its family-focused activities and interactive workshops, children can learn about artworks in a fun environment.
Visit Palazzo Ducale and the Museo Correr
A journey through Venice’s impressive history requires a stop at the magnificent Palazzo Ducale (Doge’s Palace) and the nearby Museo Correr. With audio tours tailored to younger visitors, your children can learn fascinating stories about Doges’ lives and gain insights into Venetian history.
Delve into Leonardo da Vinci’s Genius
This hands-on museum devoted to the life and innovations of Leonardo da Vinci offers plenty of entertainment for kids. Interactive displays and exhibits provide opportunities to understand his legendary inventions, bringing science and history to life in an engaging way.
Stroll the Beautiful Gardens of Parco delle Rimembranze
Nestled on the island of Sant’Elena, the expansive park named Parco delle Rimembranze is perfect for families to escape the bustling city streets and enjoy green open spaces. Children can explore the playgrounds, rent bikes, or go rollerblading while adults unwind with picturesque views of the lagoon.
Navigating Venice with Vaporettos: A Family Guide
Plan your routes and access points
With vaporetto passes like Venezia Unica City Pass, navigating Venice’s winding canals becomes easier for first-time visitors. However, it is essential to pre-plan your itinerary to save time and ensure you can reach all desired destinations efficiently.
Child safety on vaporettos
Vaporettos are not only a practical method of transportation but an enjoyable experience for kids to marvel at the vibrant cityscape. Nonetheless, safety should be a priority onboard. Keep children close and supervise them at all times, especially when embarking and disembarking.
In conclusion, Venice offers plenty for families to explore and experience together. With careful planning and the use of family-friendly transportation like vaporettos, it will surely become an unforgettable family adventure!
