Car rental in Venice

Compare prices. A quick price comparison can be your biggest money-saver when planning your Venice adventure. Spend just a few minutes browsing through platforms like Visitteo, and you could uncover some surprisingly good deals. Prices fluctuate, especially during the bustling tourist season, so it’s smart to act fast once you find that golden offer.

Book your rental car early. The earlier, the better! As soon as Venice is on your calendar, secure your rental car. Why? Simple. Early bookings mean more choices and better prices. If you wait too long, you may find yourself stuck with fewer options or a much higher price tag, especially in the peak summer months.

Inspect the car carefully. Before you take off on those scenic Italian roads, give the car a once-over. Check every scratch, dent, or mark, and snap some photos. You’ll be glad you did if the rental company tries to pin damage on you later. A little diligence upfront can prevent hefty surprises later.

Check the fuel policy. Always go for a full-to-full fuel policy. It’s straightforward, you return the car with a full tank, just like when you picked it up. This way, you’ll avoid overpaying for fuel since rental companies typically charge premium prices if they refill it for you.

Use your smartphone navigation. Why pay extra for a navigation when your phone already has one? Google Maps, or any similar app, can guide you through Venice’s winding roads with ease. Not only is it free, but you also avoid the hassle of unfamiliar rental GPS systems.

Exploring the old center of Venice by car is impossible, but a car on the mainland will get you to all your desired destinations. Driving in Italy can be aggressive, so it is important to drive defensively. Tourists may be more likely to be stopped by the police, so abide by speed limits regardless of whether locals do so or not. Most Italian roads are normally in good condition. To move around Venice during rush hour can be difficult as the streets become clogged up and the vaporettos will also likely be crowded.

Usually, the peak traffic times are between 8:00 – 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 – 7:00  p.m. A unique geography of canals and narrow streets and restrictions on vehicle access in certain areas can make driving in Venice challenging.

To preserve the historic architecture and atmosphere of Venice, vehicle access to the historic city center is limited to authorized vehicles only. There are only pedestrian zones in the city center, and vehicles are not allowed.

In Venice, navigating the narrow, winding streets and restricted pedestrian-only areas can be difficult for drivers. Consequently, if you plan to visit Venice, it’s best to leave your car behind and use public transport or take a stroll. Piazzale Roma or Tronchetto are good choices for parking your car since these are major transportation hubs with both spaces for parking garages and parking lots.

Vaporettos (water buses) operate all around the city so you can easily make your way around. However, if you still want to drive inside the city, keep in mind that parking will be scarce and expensive. Making prior arrangements such as booking water taxis in advance and parking outside the center is recommended for a better experience.

St. Mark’s Basilica. Step into a world of glittering gold and ancient history. St. Mark’s Basilica is a feast for the eyes, with Byzantine mosaics that seem to glow in the soft Venetian light. Every corner has a story, and don’t forget to head upstairs for a sweeping view of St. Mark’s Square, it’s like seeing Venice from a whole new angle!

Doge’s Palace. Opulence and history collide at the Doge’s Palace. Once the political epicenter of Venice, this masterpiece of Gothic architecture holds lavish rooms adorned with Tintoretto’s vibrant artwork. Crossing the haunting Bridge of Sighs, where prisoners caught their last glimpse of freedom, adds a shadow of Venice’s darker past to your visit.

Ride the Vaporetto on the Grand Canal. Imagine floating down Venice’s Grand Canal, watching centuries-old palazzos rise from the water like forgotten giants. Hop on a Vaporetto to feel the pulse of the city, where water is life and each bend reveals a new story. It’s not just a ride, it’s Venice in motion.

Rialto Bridge. The Rialto Bridge is a striking emblem of Venice. As you walk its marble span, you’ll see the Grand Canal unfold beneath you, bustling with gondolas and boats. Cross it to reach the vibrant markets, a blend of history and lively local life.

Santa Maria della Salute. A church built out of gratitude, Santa Maria della Salute is a testament to Venice’s resilience. With its grand baroque dome and stunning location at the edge of the water, it’s both a place of worship and a visual masterpiece, offering calm and beauty in equal measure.

Padua. Just a 40-minute drive from Venice, Padua invites you into a world where history and art intertwine effortlessly. Wander through the serene Scrovegni Chapel, where Giotto’s frescoes glow with emotion, or lose yourself in the tranquil paths of Italy’s oldest botanical garden. It’s a perfect blend of ancient soul and modern charm, waiting for you to explore.

Treviso. In only 45 minutes, you can find yourself strolling the quaint streets of Treviso. This quiet gem offers medieval walls, picturesque canals, and lively piazzas. Treat yourself to a glass of prosecco or indulge in authentic tiramisu. The pace here slows down, and the serenity of its hidden corners is simply irresistible.

Vicenza. A 1 hour and 5 minutes drive from Venice takes you to Vicenza, where Palladian architecture turns the city into a living gallery. The iconic Villa La Rotonda alone will leave you in awe. Meander through its Renaissance streets, and you’ll feel like you’re stepping into the elegance of a bygone era, each building a masterpiece in itself.

Verona. In just 1 hour and 20 minutes, you’ll arrive in Verona, where romance fills the air. Stand beneath Juliet’s balcony or admire the grandeur of the Roman Arena, where history whispers from its ancient stones. Verona is not just for lovers of Shakespeare, it’s a city that enchants anyone who steps into its timeless beauty.

Lake Garda. A scenic 1 hour and 30 minutes away, Lake Garda offers a natural paradise. With its sapphire waters and dramatic mountain backdrop, it’s a haven for adventure seekers and tranquility lovers alike. Explore quaint lakeside towns, sail across the waters, or venture to the ancient castles perched along its shores. It’s pure magic in every direction.