✈️ Returning a Rental Car at Venice Marco Polo Airport
Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE) is one of Italy’s busiest gateways for travelers exploring Northern Italy and the Adriatic coast. 🚗 If you’ve rented a car during your trip, knowing how and where to return your rental vehicle will save you time, stress, and possible extra fees.
In this guide, we’ll explain step-by-step how to return a rental car at Venice Airport, where the drop-off area is located, what to expect during the inspection, and how to avoid common mistakes travelers make before their flights.
🏁 Rental Car Return at Venice Airport
| Step | What to Do | Estimated Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Follow airport signs for “Car Rental Return / Autonoleggi Restituzione” | 5–10 min |
| 2 | Park in your rental company’s designated area | 5 min |
| 3 | Remove personal belongings and check for damage | 5–10 min |
| 4 | Get your return receipt or drop the keys in the box | 3–5 min |
| Total Time | 15–30 minutes | ✅ Plan ahead |
Returning your rental car is usually quick — but Venice Airport has several levels and parking zones, so it helps to know where to go before you arrive.
🚗 Where to Return Your Rental Car
The Car Rental Center (P1 Multipiano Car Park) is located just a few minutes’ walk from the main terminal.
Follow the blue signs marked “Autonoleggi / Rent-a-Car Return” as you approach the airport.
- 🧭 GPS Address:Viale Galileo Galilei, 30/1, 30173 Venezia VE, Italy
- 🅿️ Parking Level: Usually Level –1 or Level 3 depending on the rental provider (Europcar, Hertz, Avis, Sixt, etc.)
- 🕒 Opening Hours: Most companies operate 07:00 – 23:00, but 24-hour key drop is available.
🧭 Step-by-Step: How to Return Your Car at Venice Marco Polo Airport
1. Follow Signs to “Car Rental Return”
As you approach the airport, follow road signs for “Autonoleggi Restituzione” (Rental Return). The route is clearly marked from the motorway.
Be careful not to enter the Departures drop-off area, which is for passengers only.
2. Park in the Correct Zone
Each rental company has a specific area in the multi-storey parking (P1). Look for your provider’s logo (e.g., Hertz, Avis, Sicily by Car).
Park in one of their marked bays and turn off the engine.
3. Remove Personal Items and Check the Car
Before you leave:
- Check the trunk, glovebox, and seat pockets
- Remove all luggage and personal devices
- Take a photo of the car (front, sides, rear, and dashboard fuel gauge)
This protects you if there’s a later damage or refueling dispute.
4. Return Keys to the Counter or Drop Box
If your rental desk is open, hand over the keys and ask for a printed or digital receipt confirming return time and condition.
If it’s after hours, drop the keys and documents into your company’s secure drop box — usually located near the desk or parking exit.
💡 Pro Tips for a Smooth Return
| ✅ Tip | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Refuel before returning | Avoid high “refueling fees” (€3–€5 per liter) |
| Check airport traffic | Morning congestion on SR14 is common |
| Keep photos of the car | Proof in case of false damage claims |
| Return early | Allow 30–45 min before check-in |
| Use Google Maps | “P1 Rent a Car Return Venice Airport” shows exact entrance |
⛽ Where to Refuel Near Venice Marco Polo Airport
To avoid extra charges, refill your tank before drop-off.
Here are the closest fuel stations to the airport:
| Gas Station | Distance from Airport | Open Hours | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| ENI Station (Via Triestina 94, Tessera) | 2 km | 24/7 | Closest and easiest access |
| Q8 Station (Via Orlanda 210, Mestre) | 4 km | 6:00–22:00 | Cheaper prices, card payment only |
| IP Station (Via Triestina 65, Tessera) | 2.5 km | 7:00–21:00 | Great for last-minute refuel |
👉 Always keep the refueling receipt — some companies ask for proof that you filled up.
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🧾 After-Hours Return
If your flight leaves early morning or late night, you can still return your car even when the desks are closed:
- Park in your rental company’s area
- Note the mileage and fuel level
- Place the keys and contract in the drop box
- Take photos of the vehicle in the parking spot
Your rental will be processed automatically the next morning, and a confirmation email will follow.
⚠️ Avoid These Common Mistakes
- ❌ Forgetting to refuel → leads to high surcharges
- ❌ Leaving belongings in the car → common with sunglasses, GPS, and chargers
- ❌ Missing the correct parking zone → may cause delays or fines
- ❌ Ignoring damage inspection → take photos before leaving
Returning the car carefully ensures you won’t get unexpected charges days later.
🧭 Alternative Drop-Offs
If you’re traveling onward, many companies allow one-way rentals from Venice Airport to other cities:
| Destination | Distance | One-Way Fee | Drive Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Verona | 120 km | €80–120 | 1 h 30 m |
| Milan Malpensa | 290 km | €150–200 | 3 h 30 m |
| Bologna | 150 km | €90–130 | 2 h |
| Florence | 260 km | €120–160 | 3 h |
Always check one-way fees in advance; some offers include free one-way rentals within Italy.
🌐 Contact Information — Venice Airport Car Rentals
| Company | Desk Location | Phone | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Europcar | P1 Parking, Level –1 | +39 041 541 5135 | 07:00–23:00 |
| Avis / Budget | P1, Level 3 | +39 041 541 6075 | 07:00–23:00 |
| Hertz / Thrifty | P1, Level –1 | +39 041 541 6077 | 07:00–23:00 |
| Sixt | P1, Level 3 | +39 029 475 7979 | 07:00–23:00 |
| Locauto / Enterprise | P1, Level –1 | +39 041 541 6071 | 07:30–22:30 |
🧳 Need a New Rental Before You Fly?
If you’re continuing your journey to another region, you can book a new rental car directly at Venice Marco Polo Airport.
✅ Final Checklist Before Returning Your Rental Car
| Task | Status |
|---|---|
| Refueled the car | ☐ |
| Checked for personal belongings | ☐ |
| Took photos of car and odometer | ☐ |
| Returned keys or used drop box | ☐ |
| Collected receipt | ☐ |
🧡 Once that’s done, you’re free to head toward the departures area — only a 7-minute walk or shuttle ride from the car park.
🧭 Quick FAQ
Q: How long does it take to return a rental car at Venice Airport?
👉 Usually 15–30 minutes, depending on traffic and inspection.
Q: Can I return my rental car after hours?
✅ Yes, all major companies have secure key drop boxes at the Car Rental Center.
Q: What happens if I return the car dirty or late?
🕐 A short delay (under 30 min) is often fine, but excessive dirt or late returns may trigger cleaning or extra-day fees.
🌅 Final Thoughts
Returning a rental car at Venice Marco Polo Airport is simple once you know the process.
Follow the Autonoleggi Restituzione signs, refuel nearby, take a few quick photos, and keep your return receipt.
This smooth process ensures you can leave Venice with peace of mind — and perhaps a final espresso at the airport café before your flight. ☕
