Venice passes....confusing as heck!
Dec 4th, 2013, 06:37 PM
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Venice passes....confusing as heck!
Ok, we (family of four, kids 16 and 18) are to be in Venice for 5 days (120 hours). Overall, depending upon the weather, don't plan to spend excess time in museums. THINK I would like transportation passes...don't think the Chorus pass (churches) are too big an interest as we are headed to Rome and will get plenty there!
We WILL do St. Marks, Doges Palace, Secret Itineraries (booking directly to save a few bucks, opinions?) Correr Museum, more?
SO, I can buy passes, or pay as I go.
Transportations passes: Two ROLLING VENICE passes for kids (18 each) that gives them a 72 hour transit pass, 2 adult 72 hour at 35 euros....so 106 euros for 72 hours transportation.
PLUS
Museum passes: 20 euros each for the "Museum pass", for 80 euros total (although I see they offer a family discount)
TOTALS: 106 + 80 = 186 euros
OR PAY AS I GO, at 7x4=28 for a vaporetto trip, this adds up fast...and I guess you get to skip some lines, or get in faster, shorter lines with these passes? Not to mention museum entrances...
OK, so best to pick it up there at the train station? Buy it in advance?
Your thoughts? Is this Rolling Pass redundant with the museum passes? Thanks for any tips or thoughts.
We WILL do St. Marks, Doges Palace, Secret Itineraries (booking directly to save a few bucks, opinions?) Correr Museum, more?
SO, I can buy passes, or pay as I go.
Transportations passes: Two ROLLING VENICE passes for kids (18 each) that gives them a 72 hour transit pass, 2 adult 72 hour at 35 euros....so 106 euros for 72 hours transportation.
PLUS
Museum passes: 20 euros each for the "Museum pass", for 80 euros total (although I see they offer a family discount)
TOTALS: 106 + 80 = 186 euros
OR PAY AS I GO, at 7x4=28 for a vaporetto trip, this adds up fast...and I guess you get to skip some lines, or get in faster, shorter lines with these passes? Not to mention museum entrances...
OK, so best to pick it up there at the train station? Buy it in advance?
Your thoughts? Is this Rolling Pass redundant with the museum passes? Thanks for any tips or thoughts.
Dec 4th, 2013, 07:58 PM
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The Rolling Venice discount cards cost 4€ each. The card gives discounts for transport passes, museums, and more.
With the Rolling Venice card, an adult 72-hour travel card will cost 18€ instead of 35€, so a total cost of 22€ (18 + 4) resulting in immediate savings.
It does seem as if the Rolling Venice discount for museums is the same offered to all under age 25--seems redundant as you say unless I'm missing something as well.
There are two different museum passes, one that covers all 11 civic museums, and another that just covers the 4 museums at St Mark's Square. You might check the list of civic museums to verify if you really need more than the St Mark's pass.
For the number of days you are there, I would get the travel cards. In that amount of time, you will probably ride at least five times, so the travel cards will pay for themselves. With a pass, you won't have to wonder about hopping a vaporetto just to hop one stop across the Grand Canal or keep adding up each individual ticket and kick yourself for not buying a pass.
With the Rolling Venice card, an adult 72-hour travel card will cost 18€ instead of 35€, so a total cost of 22€ (18 + 4) resulting in immediate savings.
It does seem as if the Rolling Venice discount for museums is the same offered to all under age 25--seems redundant as you say unless I'm missing something as well.
There are two different museum passes, one that covers all 11 civic museums, and another that just covers the 4 museums at St Mark's Square. You might check the list of civic museums to verify if you really need more than the St Mark's pass.
For the number of days you are there, I would get the travel cards. In that amount of time, you will probably ride at least five times, so the travel cards will pay for themselves. With a pass, you won't have to wonder about hopping a vaporetto just to hop one stop across the Grand Canal or keep adding up each individual ticket and kick yourself for not buying a pass.
Dec 8th, 2013, 09:14 AM
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ellenem, THANK YOU. I see the rolling pass is not available to be purchased on line. Bummer. I suppose I can get this when we arrive in Venice at the train station??? I will purchase two rolling passes for my kids (16 and 18) and two adult transit passes for 72 hours.
I just purchased the online Secret Itineraries tour (2 adult admissions and 2 "rolling") so we will need this rolling pass prior to that tour (the day after we arrive).
I guess I need to buy also online the St. Marks and Doges Palace tickets, probably was there on the same website...we opted to not spend the big bucks on the Context Tour, altho tempting...just all adds up too fast!! Seems like I read I can also purchase that at the Correr Museum the day of.
Thanks, and tips are always appreciated (words, not money, although now that I think about it...)
I just purchased the online Secret Itineraries tour (2 adult admissions and 2 "rolling") so we will need this rolling pass prior to that tour (the day after we arrive).
I guess I need to buy also online the St. Marks and Doges Palace tickets, probably was there on the same website...we opted to not spend the big bucks on the Context Tour, altho tempting...just all adds up too fast!! Seems like I read I can also purchase that at the Correr Museum the day of.
Thanks, and tips are always appreciated (words, not money, although now that I think about it...)
Dec 8th, 2013, 09:21 AM
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You don't need to take "a vaporetto just to hop one stop across the Grand Canal" -that's unwieldy and hugely expensive if you just need to get to the other side in places where there is none of the three bridges.
You can cross for pennies - see
http://italy.worldwide-accom.com/ven...e#.UqTIEBYcbjs
You can cross for pennies - see
http://italy.worldwide-accom.com/ven...e#.UqTIEBYcbjs
Dec 8th, 2013, 09:37 AM
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true michel! we look forward to testing our balance on these!!!
Hey pals, any reason to buy any other admissions in advance (other than Secret Iteneraries) for a trip December 23 - 26 Venice stay? Cheaper? Lines?? Availability?
Hey pals, any reason to buy any other admissions in advance (other than Secret Iteneraries) for a trip December 23 - 26 Venice stay? Cheaper? Lines?? Availability?
Dec 8th, 2013, 09:20 PM
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The link michelhuebeli posted seems an old one. One traghetto ride costs now about €2 for the tourists. For the residents it seems to cost almost as before. So I don't take traghetto casually any more as I used to.
Dec 9th, 2013, 01:09 AM
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Marketing and merchandising to tourists in Venice is an industry. When you consider that tourism is its only industry (and you ponder the annual numbers), you can see why tinkering with tourist packages is a full time endeavor, an endless attempt to re-create the wheel. The default limits of the place produce a process that is mundane. Simplicity is often thrown into a canal in favor of a labyrinthian maze of confusion. Sometimes, I'm convinced the confusion is intentional, to get you to spend more money on things you don't really need and/or will never use. Some might see that as cynical where I see it as practical.
At least now, most of the details are available in English. The translations aren't perfect, so English readers still face a challenge. Trust me when I tell you, there are plenty of confused Italians as well.
Re: the traghetto
Most tourists are afraid to stand in a gondola, which is the local norm. No matter how many times the traghetti are discussed on the internet, there's no mad rush by tourists to use them. Still, they do use them, and the numbers grow each year. So the price increases. But, in general, the fear of falling into the canal (it happens) keeps the droves away.
At least now, most of the details are available in English. The translations aren't perfect, so English readers still face a challenge. Trust me when I tell you, there are plenty of confused Italians as well.
Re: the traghetto
Most tourists are afraid to stand in a gondola, which is the local norm. No matter how many times the traghetti are discussed on the internet, there's no mad rush by tourists to use them. Still, they do use them, and the numbers grow each year. So the price increases. But, in general, the fear of falling into the canal (it happens) keeps the droves away.
Dec 9th, 2013, 06:30 AM
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That link quoting the traghetto as .40 per ride is WAY old... it was .50 for years and as Kappa says has gone up to 2 euros for tourists, .70 for residents and people with the IMOB transport card.
There was a period where way too many tourists started using the traghetto, and no they don't stand, they SIT (something reserved, usually, for the infirm or elderly). The traghetto guys don't even want tourists to stand, they are a hazard. I think the 2 euro price tag has cut back on the numbers a bit, thankfully.
So, I'd say stick to the vap pass you'll get more bang for your buck then using the traghetto.
There was a period where way too many tourists started using the traghetto, and no they don't stand, they SIT (something reserved, usually, for the infirm or elderly). The traghetto guys don't even want tourists to stand, they are a hazard. I think the 2 euro price tag has cut back on the numbers a bit, thankfully.
So, I'd say stick to the vap pass you'll get more bang for your buck then using the traghetto.
Dec 9th, 2013, 07:29 AM
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There is a combined museum pass for the Doges Palace ( assuming it he admission is not included in your Secret Itineraries tour), the Correr, and two other minor museums. You can read about it here:
http://correr.visitmuve.it/en/pianif...isita/tickets/
You can buy the pass online but there is no price advantage. You could arrive at the Correr at opening time and buy it then; there is unlikely to be a line. Note that there is a Family's Ticket option: for the combined pass you would pay one full admission(€16.50) and three at reduced price (€8.50).
There is no admission fee for St. Mark's basilica, if you just want to do a quick lap of the floor area. You can make reservations online for free on their website, but we found the line quite short in October. There is a charge to visit the balcony (€2) and it is well worth it. The real bronze horses are up there, and some interesting exhibits. You get a lovely view over the church interior, and you can go out on the outside balcony for views over the piazza. There was scaffolding there in October and it will,probably still be there in December. There is also a separate admission fee for the treasury but we didn't go in so I cannot speak to that.
We rode a tragettoonce once during our month in Venice, the one about halfway between Rialto and Accademia bridges. It was €2 each and we were instructed to sit on the thwarts ( sides--is that the right word?). If you do ride one, take note of where they stow the coins. Must be a display of their skill, as if the boat tips, they would all slide into the canal.
http://correr.visitmuve.it/en/pianif...isita/tickets/
You can buy the pass online but there is no price advantage. You could arrive at the Correr at opening time and buy it then; there is unlikely to be a line. Note that there is a Family's Ticket option: for the combined pass you would pay one full admission(€16.50) and three at reduced price (€8.50).
There is no admission fee for St. Mark's basilica, if you just want to do a quick lap of the floor area. You can make reservations online for free on their website, but we found the line quite short in October. There is a charge to visit the balcony (€2) and it is well worth it. The real bronze horses are up there, and some interesting exhibits. You get a lovely view over the church interior, and you can go out on the outside balcony for views over the piazza. There was scaffolding there in October and it will,probably still be there in December. There is also a separate admission fee for the treasury but we didn't go in so I cannot speak to that.
We rode a tragettoonce once during our month in Venice, the one about halfway between Rialto and Accademia bridges. It was €2 each and we were instructed to sit on the thwarts ( sides--is that the right word?). If you do ride one, take note of where they stow the coins. Must be a display of their skill, as if the boat tips, they would all slide into the canal.
Dec 9th, 2013, 08:09 AM
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<i><font color=#555555>"The traghetto guys don't even want tourists to stand, they are a hazard."</font></i>
This is true. However, tourists don't always wear a giant T on their forehead, and there are thousands of slow traveling tourists (or internationals on business), who return to Venice year after year and spend a lot of time there. Many of us take great pride in the local customs and wish to respect them. I can't remember the last time someone asked me to sit. If you speak to the <i>gondolieri</i> in Italian, chances are they will treat you like a resident. Behavior is often interpreted by the way you present yourself.
This is true. However, tourists don't always wear a giant T on their forehead, and there are thousands of slow traveling tourists (or internationals on business), who return to Venice year after year and spend a lot of time there. Many of us take great pride in the local customs and wish to respect them. I can't remember the last time someone asked me to sit. If you speak to the <i>gondolieri</i> in Italian, chances are they will treat you like a resident. Behavior is often interpreted by the way you present yourself.
Dec 9th, 2013, 04:26 PM
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NYC, I agree - there are the people who go year after year, and know how to use and stand in the traghetto, and those who go for the "cheap gondola ride" they have read about on the internet and try to wave other passengers out of the way so they can get their shot of the traghetto captain on their massive camera.
In the past few years I have sometimes been the ONLY passenger standing in the boat. I would love to see a return to the days when the traghetto is transportation, not a tourist attraction.
In the past few years I have sometimes been the ONLY passenger standing in the boat. I would love to see a return to the days when the traghetto is transportation, not a tourist attraction.
Dec 9th, 2013, 04:54 PM
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I also do not believe the traghetti run in winter. Even in early spring and late fall, I have not seen them. Perhaps in one or two spots- but no more. Perhaps someone can verify?
I happen to think the transportation pass is worth it. Once you have it, you are less stressed about getting from one place to another. If the weather sours or you're not feeling well, or you're late for something- you'll be
I happen to think the transportation pass is worth it. Once you have it, you are less stressed about getting from one place to another. If the weather sours or you're not feeling well, or you're late for something- you'll be
Dec 9th, 2013, 04:56 PM
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sorry- you'll be able to hop on a vaporetto without stressing about the cost.
Additionally, don't forget, that even with a pass you must validate every time you ride. There are little machines at every ramp (they kind of look like parking meters). Just wave your card in front and you should see a little green light go on. That means you're good to go.
Additionally, don't forget, that even with a pass you must validate every time you ride. There are little machines at every ramp (they kind of look like parking meters). Just wave your card in front and you should see a little green light go on. That means you're good to go.
Dec 10th, 2013, 05:15 AM
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In 2012 we purchased Veniceconnected transportation passes and used them for the airport bus and vaporettos. Now they have something called "Veneziaunica." Through this site you can purchase whatever you need as far as vaporetto and museum passes.
http://www.veniceconnected.com/
We purchased the Veniceconnected passes online prior to leaving at a discounted rate. After clearing the airport formalities we followed the signs to the airport bus and 10 meters from the bus stop was the Veniceconnected vending machine. I entered our numbers and it dispensed our printed passes. It was...EASY,EASY. When we entered the bus we activated the passes by simply passing the cards in front of the computerized devise on the bus, sat down, and were taken to Piazzale Roma in Venice.
A lesson learned the hard way: When we first came from the airport to Piazzale Roma we walked across the new Constitution Bridge to reach Canerregio, where our hotel was located. It was extremely difficult because the ached bridge is all steps and no inclined plane to drag our suitcases. We are experienced do-it-yourslef travelers in our mid 60"s, but this was difficult going. Also, I am too cheap to pay the facchini (porters) their outrageous fees. When we came back to Venice from the airport after dropping off the car the we found the vapoetto station at Piazzale Roma and floated one stop to Ferrovia (Canereggio), where our hotel was located. We never broke a sweat. LIVE and LEARN.
Buon viaggio,
http://www.veniceconnected.com/
We purchased the Veniceconnected passes online prior to leaving at a discounted rate. After clearing the airport formalities we followed the signs to the airport bus and 10 meters from the bus stop was the Veniceconnected vending machine. I entered our numbers and it dispensed our printed passes. It was...EASY,EASY. When we entered the bus we activated the passes by simply passing the cards in front of the computerized devise on the bus, sat down, and were taken to Piazzale Roma in Venice.
A lesson learned the hard way: When we first came from the airport to Piazzale Roma we walked across the new Constitution Bridge to reach Canerregio, where our hotel was located. It was extremely difficult because the ached bridge is all steps and no inclined plane to drag our suitcases. We are experienced do-it-yourslef travelers in our mid 60"s, but this was difficult going. Also, I am too cheap to pay the facchini (porters) their outrageous fees. When we came back to Venice from the airport after dropping off the car the we found the vapoetto station at Piazzale Roma and floated one stop to Ferrovia (Canereggio), where our hotel was located. We never broke a sweat. LIVE and LEARN.
Buon viaggio,
Dec 10th, 2013, 08:28 AM
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> In 2012 we purchased Veniceconnected transportation passes and used them for the airport bus and vaporettos. Now they have something called "Veneziaunica." Through this site you can purchase whatever you need as far as vaporetto and museum passes. http://www.veniceconnected.com/
There is NO discounts any longer for the passes aleady sometime from 2012. This makes veniceconnected not intersting at all ( for me ). The problem with pre-purchasing is the date of exchange will be fixed and it will be complicated when you need to change the dates. I don't even think if changing is possible. Buy the transport passes when you are there from machine or at the manned counters when you know you will need them.
There is NO discounts any longer for the passes aleady sometime from 2012. This makes veniceconnected not intersting at all ( for me ). The problem with pre-purchasing is the date of exchange will be fixed and it will be complicated when you need to change the dates. I don't even think if changing is possible. Buy the transport passes when you are there from machine or at the manned counters when you know you will need them.
Dec 10th, 2013, 08:37 AM
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> walked across the new Constitution Bridge to reach Canerregio, where our hotel was located. It was extremely difficult because the ached bridge is all steps and no inclined plane to drag our suitcases ..
I'm a bit surprised you found dragging the lugagge on the Calatrava ( Constitution) Bridge that difficult. As ellenem mentioned above, the steps of that bridge are much lower than usual to make the dragging easier, as seen on this photo.
http://venicetravelblog.com/2012/03/
I'm a bit surprised you found dragging the lugagge on the Calatrava ( Constitution) Bridge that difficult. As ellenem mentioned above, the steps of that bridge are much lower than usual to make the dragging easier, as seen on this photo.
http://venicetravelblog.com/2012/03/
Dec 10th, 2013, 10:23 AM
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Dragging the luggage up the steps was difficult and both being in our mid 60's did not ease the task. Some bridges in Venice have metal wedges attached to the bridge steps on one side to mage moving luggage easier. In 2012 the Calatrava Bridge did not have this amenity.
Buon viaggio
Buon viaggio
Dec 10th, 2013, 01:56 PM
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VeniceConnected is now a defunct website. Users are now being directed to http://www.veneziaunica.it/en. Obviously, Venice is a work in progress, and all these internet portals are subject to change.
Dec 10th, 2013, 06:52 PM
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Doesn't your Secret Itineries tour include admission to Doge's Palace? I can't imagine you'd have to pay for that separately.
We thought we'd need the vaparatto pass, we were there 2 nights and just about 2 full days, but only ended up taking the vaparatto once. Of course this was in the summer and we could enjoy walking everywhere. You may want the benefit of the transportation in the winter. We opted for a water taxi to and from the train station to the hotel, so that also cut down on the vaparatto rides.
Your trip will be here before you know it, have a great time!
We thought we'd need the vaparatto pass, we were there 2 nights and just about 2 full days, but only ended up taking the vaparatto once. Of course this was in the summer and we could enjoy walking everywhere. You may want the benefit of the transportation in the winter. We opted for a water taxi to and from the train station to the hotel, so that also cut down on the vaparatto rides.
Your trip will be here before you know it, have a great time!
