Venice needs to be on your Italy itinerary. Period. It can be crowded, smelly, and very touristy… but it’s also an incredibly unique destination.
Its mesmerizing canals crossed by arched bridges, the romantic gondolas, and the awe-striking Gothic architecture are a sight to behold.
This city is built across more than 100 islands, after all, and it has much to offer its visitors. What if your trip is too short to make it to Venice, though, but you’ll be spending time in Rome? Can you even visit Venice from Rome?
I’ll say yes, YOU CAN, although it’s not ideal. I absolutely recommend spending 2 or 3 days in Venice. However, that’s not always possible. If you’re set on visiting on a day trip from Rome, I ABSOLUTELY recommend joining a tour, so you ensure that you’ll make the most of your limited time there.
The floating city, after all, is located 326 miles (525km) north of Rome, and the train ride takes around 4.5 hours.
With an organized excursion, all transfers will be arranged for you, along with a guided tour of the city or free time to explore at your leisure.
Otherwise, you can spend half your days figuring out the frustrating public transportation system. This would leave you with very little time to actually enjoy what you came for.
I’m Italian, born and raised in Bologna, and even for me figuring logistics out can be complicated. Especially when I’m trying to cram as much as possible into a day trip!
Below you’ll find my selection of the best Venice tours from Rome, suitable for solo travelers, couples, and even big groups. Read on!
Wondering why you should trust me? You already know I’m Italian, but you may not know that I’ve been curating travel guides and tours for travelers from all over the world for 10 years now!
You could say I have a special instinct when it comes to choosing tours, as I know exactly what to look for, and how to identify high-quality experiences. And you can trust that only the best ones make the cut!
I generally use Viator and Get Your Guide to book tours around the world. I especially recommend them for their great cancellation policy. If your plans change, you can cancel most activities up to 24 hours in advance and get a full refund.
In a rush? These are the top tours:
| THE BEST TOUR | Day Trip from Rome to Venice by High-Speed Train |
| PRIVATE TOUR | Venice from Rome: Private Day Trip |
| MULTI-DAY TOUR | Best of Italy: 5-Day Escorted Tour from Rome |
OUR PICK: The BEST Venice Tour from Rome
This Day Trip from Rome to Venice by High-Speed Train is the most thorough tour. It offers roundtrip transfers in the most efficient means of transportation: the high-speed train.
Once in Venice, you’ll board a Vaporetto (waterbus) to glide along the canals, getting your first glimpse of this mesmerizing city. Then it’s time for your guided tour, which will take you around the major attractions as you learn about their history and significance.
After the introduction to the floating city, you’ll be released to wander on your own. Make the most of your free time to visit other lesser-known areas, or sample local bites.
Shortly before the ride back to Rome, you’ll meet your guide again for a delicious aperitivo with the group, capping off a wonderful day. It’s one of the best day tours from Rome to Venice, and our undisputable top pick.
Why is this the best tour? It offers the perfect balance between a guided tour and free time. Besides, a Vaporetto ride along the waterways is included, and you’ll be treated to a traditional Venetian apritivo to end your day.
Read what the reviews say:
“This trip was exceptional from start to finish! Jacob, our tour guide was excellent! The tour itself was incredible, Venice is absolutely stunning and this trip allowed us the chance to see and do everything! I cannot recommend this day trip more… simply 5 stars! It was a day to remember!! Thank you!”
Amanda – Read more reviews
This Rome to Venice tour includes: Roundtrip train tickets, a guided tour of Venice, a Vaporetto ride, and an aperitivo. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Private Tours To Venice from Rome
▶️ The Private Full Day Tour to Venice from Rome by Fast Train accommodates groups of up to 12.
You’ll make your way to St. Mark’s Square, the beating heart of Venice. Accompanied by a guide, explore the magnificent attractions of the city, including the Basilica, the Grand Canal, and Doge’s Palace.
A waterbus ticket is included in the tour, so you can go on a boat ride around the islands before catching the train back to Rome. An assistant will be available throughout the day, and you’ll also have an emergency number for any need that may arise.
This tour from Rome to Venice includes: Train tickets, waterbus, and an assistant. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ This Venice from Rome: Private Day Trip by train with Islands Tour is a private experience catered to you and your group of friends. It includes hotel pick-up and tickets for the high-speed train, ensuring you get to Venice promptly and with plenty of time to enjoy.
Upon arrival you’ll hop on a private taxi boat to explore the Venetian lagoon, touring around the beautiful islands that surround it. You’ll then have free time to visit Venice’s top sights, eat a gelato, and wander leisurely along the narrow streets.
This tour includes: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, train tickets, a private boat tour, and a guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Multi-Day Tours from Rome to Venice
▶️ The Best of Italy: 5-Day Escorted Tour from Rome is a super-comprehensive adventure! You’ll be whisked away from Rome to travel around 9 different cities, including the iconic Venice.
Your friendly guide will lead the way around Assisi, Siena, Florence, Pisa, Bologna, Padova, Venice, and Montepulciano. You’ll visit the major attractions of each, relish traditional food and wines, and delve into their fascinating history.
Four hotel nights with breakfast, 2 lunches, and 1 dinner, along with a Venetian aperitivo, are included. You’ll return to Rome at the end of the fifth day.
This tour includes: Transportation, a guide, four hotel nights, breakfast, 2 lunches, 1 dinner, and a Spritz with Cicchetti. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ A shorter alternative is the Small-Group 2 Day Tour to Florence and Venice from Rome by Train. You’ll hop on a train and make your way to Venice, the city of canals.
Enjoy a comprehensive walking tour along its waterways and narrow alleys. Along the way, your guide will provide fascinating facts about the city’s history. Pass by the most important attractions, including Basilica di San Marco, Doge’s Palace, and the Bridge of Sighs.
In the afternoon, travel to Florence, where you’ll spend the night. The following day, wander around the birthplace of Renaissance. Explore the city with a guide, visit Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia Gallery, and check out other major landmarks.
Finally, take the fast train back to Rome.
This tour includes: Hotel transfers, a guide, accommodation, breakfast, and tickets to the Accademia Gallery. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ The 6-Day Venice, Garda & Northern Italy Small-Group Tour from Rome promises a week of endless enjoyment. You’ll tour the most artistic cities of the region, savor local cuisine, and witness incredible landscapes.
Spend the first day in Bologna, and opt for an additional trip to Ravenna on the second day. Then, head for a visit to Gorino, Este, and Padua, home to Italy’s second-oldest university.
On the fourth day, get lost in the tiny alleys, bridges, and waterways of Venice. You’ll have a walking tour with your guide, and then free time to enjoy at your leisure.
Go wine tasting at the foothills of the Dolomites, visit the enchanting Verona, and be in awe of Lake Garda’s beauty.
This tour includes: All transfers, a guide, accommodation for 5 nights, and daily breakfast. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
