✈️ Start Your Venetian Adventure the Smart Way
Venice is one of Italy’s most magical cities — a place where canals replace roads and history whispers from every stone. Yet, for travelers planning to explore beyond the lagoon — the Veneto region, Verona, Padua, or even the Dolomites — renting a car at Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE) is the smartest move.
In this guide, you’ll discover the best car rental suppliers, money-saving tips, and practical advice to ensure a smooth driving experience in and around Venice. Let’s hit the road! 🚘
🏆 Why Rent a Car at Venice Marco Polo Airport?
While Venice’s old town is famously car-free, the airport is ideally located for travelers wanting to explore the mainland. Here’s why:
- 🚗 Convenience: All major car hire desks are located right at the airport terminal.
- 🕒 Time-saving: Skip public transport delays — drive directly to your hotel or next destination.
- 🌍 Freedom: Visit nearby gems like Verona, Lake Garda, or Treviso on your own schedule.
- 💰 Competitive rates: Multiple suppliers at the same airport mean better deals.
🏢 Top Car Hire Suppliers at Venice Marco Polo Airport
Here are some of the most trusted rental brands at VCE, known for quality, price, and customer service.
🚘 Best Car Rental Companies at Venice Airport
| Company | Best For | Fleet Type | Average Rating | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Europcar | Business & premium travelers | Sedans, SUVs | ⭐ 8.8/10 | Terminal building |
| Hertz | Reliable global brand | Compact, family cars | ⭐ 8.5/10 | P1 parking area |
| Sicily by Car | Affordable local option | Economy, electric | ⭐ 8.2/10 | Car rental village |
| Enterprise | Excellent customer service | Wide range | ⭐ 8.7/10 | Terminal Level 0 |
| Leasys (by FCA) | Italian-made vehicles | Fiat, Alfa Romeo | ⭐ 8.0/10 | Shuttle to lot |
| Avis / Budget | Budget-friendly | Small & midsize | ⭐ 8.3/10 | Terminal arrivals hall |
💡 Tip: If you’re arriving in high season (June–September), book in advance online to secure the best rate — last-minute prices at VCE can be 30–50% higher.
🏎️ What Type of Car Should You Rent?
Choosing the right car in Italy depends on your travel plans. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide 👇
🚗 Recommended Car Types for Venice Travelers
| Trip Type | Recommended Vehicle | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| City & Short Trips | Economy (Fiat Panda, VW Polo) | Easy parking, great mileage |
| Family Vacation | Compact SUV (Jeep Renegade, Peugeot 2008) | Extra luggage space |
| Romantic Getaway | Convertible (Mini Cabrio) | Perfect for scenic drives |
| Long Road Trip | Diesel Sedan (VW Passat) | Efficient for long distances |
| Eco-friendly Choice | Hybrid / EV (Fiat 500e) | Green zones access, low cost |
⚡ Note: If you plan to drive into Venice’s mainland (Mestre), check for ZTL zones (restricted traffic areas).
💶 Average Car Hire Prices at Venice Airport
To help you plan your budget, here’s an overview of average daily rates:
🚘 Average Car Rental Prices in Venice Marco Polo (VCE)
| Season | Economy | Compact | SUV | Convertible |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Low (Jan–Mar) | €25/day | €32/day | €45/day | €60/day |
| Mid (Apr–May, Oct) | €35/day | €42/day | €60/day | €75/day |
| High (Jun–Sep) | €45/day | €55/day | €80/day | €100/day |
🛡️ Insurance & Deposit Tips
When renting a car in Italy, insurance can be confusing. Here’s how to simplify it:
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🧾 Common Coverage Options
| Insurance Type | What It Covers | Recommended? |
|---|---|---|
| CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) | Damage to the car body | ✅ Yes |
| Theft Protection (TP) | Theft of the car | ✅ Yes |
| Super CDW / Full Protection | Removes excess, covers scratches & tires | 🔥 Highly Recommended |
| Personal Accident Insurance (PAI) | Driver injury | Optional |
💡 Always check the deposit amount — usually €800–€1500 — and make sure your credit card limit can cover it.
🧭 Driving from Venice Marco Polo Airport
Once you pick up your car, driving out of the airport is simple:
- 🚦 Follow signs for A4 or A27 to reach Venice Mestre, Padua, or Trieste.
- ⛽ Nearest gas stations: located just 1 km from the airport exit.
- 🅿️ Long-term parking is available in Mestre if you plan to leave the car before exploring Venice city center.
🌍 Top Destinations from Venice by Car
If you’re ready for a mini road trip, here are must-see destinations within a few hours’ drive 🚘
| Destination | Distance | Driving Time | Why Visit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Verona | 120 km | 1h 30m | Shakespeare’s city of love 💕 |
| Padua (Padova) | 40 km | 40 min | Basilica of Saint Anthony |
| Treviso | 30 km | 30 min | Picturesque canals & Prosecco |
| Lake Garda | 150 km | 2h | Breathtaking alpine scenery |
| Dolomites (Cortina d’Ampezzo) | 160 km | 2h 30m | Skiing & nature paradise ⛰️ |
💡 Smart Tips for Renting a Car in Venice
✅ Book early – especially during festivals and summer.
✅ Check fuel policy – “Full to Full” saves you money.
✅ Bring your IDP (International Driving Permit) – required for non-EU visitors.
✅ Inspect your vehicle – record scratches before leaving.
✅ Avoid city ZTL zones – heavy fines for entering restricted areas.
🧾 Documents You’ll Need
Before you pick up your car:
- Valid driving license (plus IDP if required)
- Credit card in the main driver’s name
- Passport or ID card
- Booking confirmation (print or digital)
🔋 Eco-Friendly Car Hire Options
Many suppliers at Venice Marco Polo now offer hybrid and electric cars — perfect for eco-conscious travelers 🌱
| Supplier | Electric Models | Charging Options | Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hertz Green Collection | Fiat 500e, Renault Zoe | On-site & city stations | Zero emissions |
| Europcar GreenFleet | Toyota Yaris Hybrid | City chargers | Fuel savings |
| Sicily by Car | Tesla Model 3 (limited) | Superchargers nearby | Premium comfort |
💚 Bonus: Venice Mestre has several public EV chargers just 10–15 minutes from the airport.
✈️ Conclusion: Explore Northern Italy with Freedom
Renting a car at Venice Marco Polo Airport is more than just convenience — it’s your gateway to Italy’s rich culture, art, lakes, and mountain landscapes. With trusted rental partners, flexible options, and smart booking strategies, your trip can be both stress-free and budget-friendly.
So buckle up, follow the Italian sunshine, and let your road trip begin! 🇮🇹🚗✨
💼 Final Tip:
To compare real-time offers, visit your preferred aggregator and check the best supplier for your travel dates — savings can reach up to 50% on early bookings! 💶
