Getting to Venice Hotelit
 

I will be arriving in Venice by train on September 23rd and staying in the Dorsodoro, but how do I get there?

Once off the train, what is the best and most cost-effective way for my wife and I to get to our hotel?

Yes.
Definitely.

Well, obviously WALKING would probably be the healthiest and most "cost-effective" way but you know, it would really HELP if you TOLD US where this hotel is in Venice so topping the post for you.

What's a Hotelit?

Hi

Take the vaporetto (water bus) from the station and get off either at the San Basilio stop or Zattere. Here's a route map - http://www.actv.it/pdf/navigazione/Mappa_linee_2nov.pdf. Tickets are 7 euro each. There is a ticket booth there so you can check what line vaporetto to get on. There is no other way except walking (or swimming :-d ) but if you have luggage I wouldn't bother.

You need to go to your hotel's web site and get very specific directions on how to get there and which is the nearest dock and vaporetto stop.

The vaporetto (bus boat) is the lest expensive way - but do buy your ticket in advance and be aware that luggage costs extra. You will then need to walk from the closest stop.

there is also a water taxi (a private launch) but this is much more expensive. this may be able to get you closer to your hotel, since it can pull in at the nearest small dock or water steps - while vaporettos stick to a specific route of major docks.

Sorry - with a water taxi the driver will help you haul the luggage on and off the boat.

With a vaporetto you are on your own as far as dealing with luggage on and off the boat.

"but do buy your ticket in advance and be aware that luggage costs extra."

No need to buy in advance. We bought our ticket at the vaporetto stop at the station. Validate it before boarding (heavy fine otherwise). No extra cost for luggage. We had one check in luggage and one cabin bag each. All up 7 euro each (June 2012).

"with a water taxi the driver will help you haul the luggage on and off the boat". Given the exorbitant charge for a water taxi that's the least they can do! :)