How to Get from Rome to Venice

Rome and Venice appear together on many Italian itineraries, and the 288-mile (464 km) journey between the historic cities is made easy by an efficient high-speed train system. Two companies operate an extensive timetable, offering travelers flexibility and the option to buy tickets in advance. For those who prefer going by plane, hour-long regional flights are also available.

Driving is another option—you can easily make the six to seven-hour drive in one day or add a worthy stop in Florence, which sits about halfway between Rome and Venice. This eight-day itinerary combines a high-speed train from Rome to Florence and a scenic drive from Florence to Venice. 

By Train

Duration: 3 hours, 45 minutes

The high-speed train is the most popular and efficient option for getting from Rome to Venice. Two companies exist, the government-run Trenitalia and the private Italo. Regardless of which you choose, expect a three-hour, 45-minute journey. 

Most Trenitalia trains run between Termini, Rome's most central train station, and the Santa Lucia station in Venice. While you can buy a ticket at the station, it often costs less to buy tickets for fast trains in advance. You'll reserve your seat on the Frecciargento, or Frecciarossa trains at the time of purchase. 
 
Italy's privately owned high-speed rail line, Italo, also offers train service from Rome's Termini and Tiburtina stations to the Santa Lucia and Mestre stations in Venice.
 
Once in Venice, you'll find vaporetto (water bus) stops in front of Santa Lucia station—route no. 1 traverses the Grand Canal. There are water taxis, a pricier option, available near the train station as well. 

By Plane 

Duration: 1 hour

Flights between Rome and Venice are about an hour long. There are two airports in Rome, Rome Ciampino, and Rome Fiumicino. Most regional flights depart from Rome Fiumicino—there's a train to Fiumicino from the aforementioned Termini station. To get to Ciampino, a taxi is your best option.

Venice also has two airports: Marco Polo International Airport and Treviso Airport. Most visitors will fly into Marco Polo, which has flights from Rome, other Italian cities, and throughout Europe. From Marco Polo, you can take a private water taxi directly to your hotel (or take the Alilaguna ferry, a cheaper option). The ATVO Fly Bus also runs from the airports to Piazzale Roma and other destinations in the Veneto Region. You can also arrange for a private transfer.

By Car

Duration: 6-7 hours without stops 

Driving from Rome to Venice takes about six to seven hours via E35. Keep in mind that there are multiple tolls along this route. You may want to consider stopping in Florence to stretch your legs and grab lunch. Trattoria Cammillo is a good restaurant option located on the outskirts of Florence which makes parking easier.

Once across the causeway connecting Venice with the mainland, drivers must park their cars in the garages around Piazzale Roma or on the adjacent island of Tronchetto. The only way to get around Venice is by boat or on foot.

You can certainly make the drive in one day, though many travelers opt to stop in Florence, a major highlight about halfway between Rome and Venice.