How to get from Rome to Venice

If you're mapping out your Italian escapade, you've likely asked yourself: How to get from Rome to Venice? Both cities are jewels in Italy's cultural crown, but each offers a distinctly different experience. We'll break down the various travel options available, so you can make an informed decision that aligns with your schedule, budget, and travel preferences.

How to get from Rome to Venice

Traveling through Italy offers a spectrum of captivating cities, each one appealing in its own way.

When it comes to traveling from Rome to Venice, you have a many options. The high-speed train epitomizes Italian efficiency. For those with a taste for speed, flights are the way to go, but airport procedures must be considered. Buses are an option for those on a budget but take more time.

The flexibility of the itinerary will provide a car that can be rented or a private transfer with a driver. Each mode of transportation has its own distinctive features and provides its own fascinating transition from the Eternal City to a floating wonder.

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What's the quickest way to get from Rome to Venice

If you are looking for how to get from Rome to Venice in the fastest way, you can choose from the following options:

• By High-Speed Train (Frecciarossa): Usually, the most efficient and fastest way to get from Rome to Venice. The trip will take from 3.5 to 4.5 hours. In Rome, the train leaves from Roma Termini station and arrives at Venezia Santa Lucia station in Venice.
• By plane: The direct flight time from Rome to Venice is about an hour, but you should also take into account the time spent traveling to and from the airport, as well as the time spent in the check-in process at the airport. Departure is from Fiumicino or Ciampino airports in Rome and arrival is at one of the Venice airports (Marco Polo or Treviso).
• By car: Traveling from Rome to Venice by car can be faster than some other options, but this depends on traffic and the route you choose. It's not as fast as traveling by train or plane, and it's worth considering that it depends on road conditions and your speed.

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By train

Duration: 3 - 3.5 hours | Cost: from €55

If you are looking for a way how to get from Rome to Venice that combines speed and the opportunity to enjoy the scenic views of Italy along the way, traveling by train is ideal.

Travel time varies, but usually takes about 3.5-4.5 hours. The fastest Frecciarossa trains are smooth and their frequent departures provide flexibility for travelers. As for ticket prices, a one-way fare will cost you an average of €55 to €110 or more if you choose a higher class of carriage. It is a good idea to book your tickets in advance - this way you can get better fares and seats.

The station with the most train departures in Rome is Roma Termini and the arrival station in Venice is Venezia Santa Lucia or Venezia Mestre.

To summarize, taking a train, especially a high-speed train is a very efficient way to get from Rome to Venice. A nice bonus will be the opportunity to enjoy the stunning scenery of Italy. It is also a comfortable option that allows you to avoid all sorts of problems that may arise, for example, when going through the control and check-in at the airport, or when traveling independently by rented car.

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By bus

Duration: 6.5 - 10 hours | Cost: from €10

If a long travel time doesn't bother you, and you don't want to spend extra money on the trip, take the bus - the most budget-friendly option on how to get from Rome to Venice. Buses generally depart from Rome's Tiburtina bus station and arrive at Venezia Tronchetto or Mestre stations. The journey can take between 6.5 and 10.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions and the chosen route.

The bus service between the two cities is operated by several bus companies such as FlixBus, Omio, and Itabus. Ticket prices vary depending on booking time, seating class, and extras. On average, prices range from €15 to €45, but if you book in advance, there is a good chance you can find tickets for €10.

In the end, the bus is certainly suitable for budget-conscious travelers, but you should keep in mind that the distance from Rome to Venice is quite significant, and if you still value time more than money, you should choose another option.

By rental car

Duration: 5.5 - 6 hours | Cost: from €40

Thinking of how to get from Rome to Venice without tying yourself to schedules? A rental car is your option. Traveling by rental car you will have the ability to adjust your route and the chance to explore the surrounding areas along the way at your own pace. The distance between cities is approximately 330 miles (530 km) and the trip typically takes between 5.5 and 6 hours, depending on road conditions and the route chosen.

The best option is to book a car in advance so you can choose the car and time that suits you best. Car rental prices depend on the type of car, the number of days of rental, insurance options, and the rental agency. On average, you will have to pay from €40 to €90 or more per day for a standard car.

When choosing a rental car as your travel option, you should keep in mind that despite the flexibility this method gives you there are some limitations. Keep in mind the toll roads, and the peculiarities of driving in Italy. Also, if you are going to explore the city center, think about a parking spot in advance.

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By private transfer

Duration: 5.5 - 6 hours | Cost: from €480

By choosing to travel from Rome to Venice by private transfer you are choosing a personalized and comfortable trip, but be prepared to spend some money. Private transfers are usually organized by chauffeured cars, minivans, or private shuttles. The duration of the trip varies, usually taking between 5.5 and 6 hours depending on road conditions, the chosen route, and the number of stops at attractions along the route.

Prices for private transfers depend on the type of vehicle, distance, number of possible deviations from the main route, and level of comfort. As a rule, a one-way transfer will cost you €480 or more. Book your transfer in advance to ensure availability and get a more reasonable price.

Many companies offer private transfer services, allowing you to choose an option depending on your preferences and group size. The driver will pick you up from your desired location in Rome and take you to your chosen destination in Venice.

Private transfers are suitable for those who value comfort and privacy, but they are the most expensive way to get from Rome to Venice. Compare the cost with the benefits and if the price is still a bit steep, choose another option.

By plane

Duration: around 1 hour | Cost: from €70

Against the other options of how to get from Rome to Venice flying by airplane looks attractive with its short travel time. Departures from Rome are from two main airports: Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino Airport and Ciampino Airport. Venice is served by Venice Marco Polo Airport and Treviso Airport.

The main air carrier operating direct flights between Rome and Venice is ITA Airways. Ticket prices from ITA are quite reasonable, and by booking in advance it is quite realistic to find a ticket for €70.

As for travel time, the flight time is only about 1 hour, which clearly wins out over all the other ways of how to get from Rome to Venice. However, you have to take into account that in addition to the flight time, you will have to get to and from the airport, go through airport checks, and in addition to that flights can be delayed from time to time.

In the end, if you add up all the extra time spent besides flight time, this option isn't much faster than taking a high-speed train. Weigh the pros and cons and decide in favor of how to get from Rome to Venice according to your preferences.

Planning your trip to Venice from Rome

• Check out The Rough Guide to Italy - our exhaustive, in-depth Italy travel guide that covers everything you need to know before you go, and while you’re on the road.
• Our expert-curated (fully customizable) Italy itineraries are packed with inspiration.