Venice's unique appeal isn't only its art, architecture, and history, but its eccentric mode of transport: the vaporetto. Managed by ACTV, Venice's vaporetto water bus system is the heartblood of the city, connecting the island chain with efficient and frequent service. 

Among its many lines, Vaporetto Line 5.2 is one of its fastest and most convenient, particularly for tourists seeking rapid and reliable transfers between Venice's central, eastern, and southern districts.

Line 5.2 travels in a clockwise direction and serves largely commuters, island hoppers, and tourists who like a quicker option to slower more scenic routes like Line 1. This piece is an extensive guide to knowing, using, and maximizing the use of Line 5.2, and answers frequent traveler questions.

Buy ACTV Vaporetto Pass from €13

Vaporetto Line 5.2 Timetable

Lido to Lido via S. Zaccaria, Zattere, Piazzale Roma, Guglie, Fondamente Nove, and S. Pietro
5:52 AM to 7:52 AM (Daily)
Boats depart every 20 minutes from Lido S.M.E. (e.g., 5:52, 6:12, 6:32, 6:52, etc.) until 7:52 AM.

Lido S.M.E. B                                      12                                      32                                      52
Sant Elena B                                      17                                      37                                      57
Giardini Biennale A                                      21                                      41                                      1
S.Marco S.Zaccaria E                                      26                                      46                                      6
Zattere A                                      32                                      52                                      12
Santa Marta                                      40                                      0                                      20
P.Roma D                                      46                                      6                                      26
Ferrovia D                                      50                                      10                                      30
Riva de Biasio A                                      52                                      12                                      32
Guglie A                                      55                                      15                                      35
Tre Archi                                      58                                      18                                      38
Sant Alvise                                      3                                      23                                      43
Madonna Orto                                      5                                      25                                      45
Fdte Nove D                                      10                                      30                                      50
Ospedale                                      13                                      33                                      53
Celestia                                      15                                      35                                      55
Bacini Arsenale Nord                                      17                                      37                                      57
S.Pietro di Castello                                      24                                      44                                      4
Lido S.M.E. A                                      34                                      54                                      14

 

Lido to Lido via S. Zaccaria, Zattere, Piazzale Roma, Guglie, Fondamente Nove, and S. Pietro
8:12 AM to 2:52 PM (Daily)
Boats depart every 20 minutes from Lido S.M.E. (e.g., 8:12, 8:32, 8:52, 9:12, etc.) until 2:52 PM.

Lido S.M.E. B                                      12                                      32                                      52
Sant Elena B                                      17                                      37                                      57
Giardini Biennale A                                      21                                      41                                      1
S.Marco S.Zaccaria E                                      26                                      46                                      6
Zattere A                                      32                                      52                                      12
Santa Marta                                      40                                      0                                      20
P.Roma D                                      46                                      6                                      26
Ferrovia D                                      50                                      10                                      30
Riva de Biasio A                                      52                                      12                                      32
Guglie A                                      55                                      15                                      35
Tre Archi                                      58                                      18                                      38
Sant Alvise                                      3                                      23                                      43
Madonna Orto                                      5                                      25                                      45
Fdte Nove D                                      10                                      30                                      50
Ospedale                                      13                                      33                                      53
Celestia                                      SD                                      SD                                      SD
Bacini Arsenale Nord                                      SD                                      SD                                      SD
S.Pietro di Castello                                      24                                      44                                      4
Lido S.M.E. A                                      34                                      54                                      14

 

Lido to Lido via S. Zaccaria, Zattere, Piazzale Roma, Guglie, Fondamente Nove, and S. Pietro
3:12 PM to 7:32 PM (Daily)
Boats depart every 20 minutes from Lido S.M.E. (e.g., 3:12, 3:32, 3:52, etc.) until 7:32 PM
SD = Stop on request
The stop at Bacini is available on request before 4:17 PM.

Lido S.M.E. B                                      12                                      32                                      52
Sant Elena B                                      17                                      37                                      57
Giardini Biennale A                                      21                                      41                                      1
S.Marco S.Zaccaria E                                      26                                      46                                      6
Zattere A                                      32                                      52                                      12
Santa Marta                                      40                                      0                                      20
P.Roma D                                      46                                      6                                      26
Ferrovia D                                      50                                      10                                      30
Riva de Biasio A                                      52                                      12                                      32
Guglie A                                      55                                      15                                      35
Tre Archi                                      58                                      18                                      38
Sant Alvise                                      3                                      23                                      43
Madonna Orto                                      5                                      25                                      45
Fdte Nove D                                      10                                      30                                      50
Ospedale                                      13                                      33                                      53
Celestia                                      SD                                      SD                                      SD
Bacini Arsenale Nord                                      17                                      37                                      57
S.Pietro di Castello                                      24                                      44                                      4
Lido S.M.E. A                                      34                                      54                                      14

 

Lido to Lido via S. Zaccaria, Zattere, Piazzale Roma, Guglie, Fondamente Nove, and S. Pietro
Departs at 7:52 PM and arrives at 9:22 PM — operates daily.

Lido S.M.E. B                           19:52                           20:12                           20:32                           20:42                           21:02                           21:22
Sant Elena B                           19:57                           20:17                           20:37                           20:47                           21:07                           21:27
Giardini Biennale A                           20:01                           20:21                           20:41                           20:51                           21:11                           21:31
S.Marco S.Zaccaria E                           20:06                           20:26                           20:46                           20:56                           21:16                           21:36
Zattere A                           20:12                           20:32                           20:52                           21:02                           21:22                           21:42
Santa Marta                           20:20                           20:40                           21:00                           21:10                           21:30                           21:50
P.Roma D                           20:26                           20:46                           21:06                           21:16                           21:36                           21:56
Ferrovia D                           20:30                           20:50                           21:10                           21:20                           21:40                           22:00
Riva de Biasio A                           20:32                           20:52                           21:12                           21:22                           21:42                           22:02
Guglie A                           20:35                           20:55                           21:15                           21:25                           21:45                           22:05
Tre Archi                           20:38                           20:58                           21:18                           21:28                           21:48                           22:08
Sant Alvise                           20:43                           21:03                           21:23                           21:33                           21:53                           22:13
Madonna Orto                           20:45                           21:05                           21:25                           21:35                           21:55                           22:15
Fdte Nove D                           20:50                           21:10                           21:30                           21:40                           22:00                           22:20
Fdte Nove D                           21:00                              22:00 
Ospedale                           21:02                              22:02 
Celestia                           21:04                              22:04 
Bacini Arsenale Nord                           21:06                              22:06 
S.Pietro di Castello                           21:13                              22:13 
Certosa                           21:16                              22:16 
Lido S.M.E. A                           21:23                              22:23 

 

Lido to Lido via S. Zaccaria, Zattere, Piazzale Roma, Guglie, Fondamente Nove, and S. Pietro
Departs at 9:42 PM and arrives at 11:02 PM — operates daily.

Lido S.M.E. B                           21:42                           22:02                           22:22                           22:42                           23:02
Sant Elena B                           21:47                           22:07                           22:27                           22:47                           23:07
Giardini Biennale A                           21:51                           22:11                           22:31                           22:51                           23:11
S.Marco S.Zaccaria E                           21:56                           22:16                           22:36                           22:56                           23:16
Zattere A                           22:02                           22:22                           22:42                           23:02                           23:22
Santa Marta                           22:10                           22:30                           22:50                           23:10                           23:30
P.Roma D                           22:16                           22:36                           22:56                           23:16                           23:36
Ferrovia D                           22:20                           22:40                           23:00                           23:20                           23:40
Riva de Biasio A                           22:22                           22:42                           23:02                           23:22 
Guglie A                           22:25                           22:45                           23:05                           23:25 
Tre Archi                           22:28                           22:48                           23:08                           23:28 
Sant Alvise                           22:33                           22:53                           23:13                           23:33 
Madonna Orto                           22:35                           22:55                           23:15                           23:35 
Fdte Nove D                           22:40                           23:00                           23:20                           23:40 
Fdte Nove D                            23:00                             00:00
Ospedale                            23:02                             00:02
Celestia                            23:04                             00:04
Bacini Arsenale Nord                            23:06                             00:06
S.Pietro di Castello                            23:13                             00:13
Certosa                            23:16                             00:16
Lido S.M.E. A                            23:23                             00:23

 

Lido to Lido via S. Zaccaria, Zattere, Piazzale Roma, Guglie, Fondamente Nove, and S. Pietro
Departs at 11:22 PM and arrives at 12:22 AM — operates daily.
Please note: from 11:42 PM onward, the Ferrovia D stop is replaced by Ferrovia B.

Lido S.M.E. B                                      23:22                                      23:42                                      00:02                                      00:22
Sant Elena B                                      23:27                                      23:47                                      00:07                                      00:27
Giardini Biennale A                                      23:31                                      23:51                                      00:11                                      00:31
S.Marco S.Zaccaria E                                      23:36                                      23:56                                      00:16                                      00:36
Zattere A                                      23:42                                      00:02                                      00:22                                      00:42
Santa Marta                                      23:50                                      00:10                                      00:30                                      00:50
P.Roma D                                      23:56                                      00:16                                      00:36                                      00:56
Ferrovia D                                      00:00                                      00:20                                      00:40                                      01:00

 

Vaporetto Line 5.2 Overview

Vaporetto Line 5.2 is an anti-clockwise express circular route that's an extension of Vaporetto Line 5.1, which covers the same distance but in a clockwise direction. Line 5.2 runs through some of the busiest and best-connected stops in Venice, including Piazzale Roma, Ferrovia, Fondamente Nove, Lido SME, Giudecca, and San Zaccaria.

The entire ride takes 70 to 80 minutes, and the boats typically operate between 6:00 and 9:00 PM with at least a varied schedule based on the season. Line 5.2 is not meant to be a tourist line, but of speed, frequency, and connectivity.

Route and Main Stops (Full Version)

Vaporetto Line 5.2 follows a clockwise circular path with stops at some of the most strategically located and culturally important locations surrounding the Venetian lagoon. While faster and more focused on efficiency than on sightseeing at a leisurely pace, the line provides easy access to a variety of disparate districts, areas of interest, and transfer points critical to commuters on a daily basis and tourists sightseeing.

Piazzale Roma: This is the road and airport bus arrival and departure point for all visitors to Venice. It is the only area of the city accessible by car or coach, having many car parks and coach stations. Line 5.2 departs here at regular intervals and is therefore the ideal place to begin or end from for land transport arrivals to take the waterbus system.

Ferrovia (Santa Lucia Station): Situated right over the Grand Canal, the station brings Venice in touch with the major Italian and foreign cities. Line 5.2 provides a rapid and sure link between the railway station and the remaining vaporetto network of Venice, thus serving as a main transfer station for both tourists and Venetians.

Giardini & Sant'Elena: Priced in the more low-key eastern quarters, these stations have proximity to the huge open spaces of Parco delle Rimembranzen and cultural dissemination of the Venice Biennale. Both spots provide an atmosphere of quiet, neighborhood life, and culture chic, and are frequented by locals as well as culture aficionados.

Lido SME: A visit to Lido di Venezia, known for its broad sandy beaches, relaxed environment, and Venice International Film Festival, held once a year. The surroundings are the antithesis of Venice's dense urban structure and provide a spacious and scenic retreat within easy reach by Line 5.2.

Fondamente Nove: A key north stop which links tourists to boats which travel to peripheral islands in the lagoon, e.g., Murano, Burano, and Torcello. It is also well known for giving a panoramic view of San Michele Cemetery Island and the north lagoon.

Zattere: Wide, sunlit seafront walkway parallel to the Giudecca Canal, a center for catching ferries in the Dorsoduro area. It makes a great launching point for travelers who are going to art museums, churches, and casual seafront restaurants.

San Zaccaria: Located near the heart of Venice's historic old town, this stop provides immediate access to St. Mark's Basilica, St. Mark's Square, and the Doge's Palace, the grand attractions. San Zaccaria is among the busiest and best-connected vaporetto stops with numerous points for transfer.

Giudecca: A residential and quieter island right opposite the central city, Giudecca has the Church of the Most Holy Redeemer (Il Redentore) and offers wonderful views of Venice's skyline. Line 5.2 connects this tranquil island to the city center and the suburbs conveniently.

While its primary function is to establish speedy transport connections, Line 5.2 does traverse some rather dramatic stretches—particularly the open sea crossing between Sant'Elena and Lido, and the vistas in the Giudecca Canal.

Timetable and Frequency (Detailed Version)

Line 5.2 Vaporetto is efficient and reliable in serving residents and tourists alike for mobility around the intricate network of canals in Venice. The timetable accommodates early morning movement, travel during peak hours, and night returns.

Regular Operating Hours: Operations begin at around 6:00 AM, serving morning commuters, airport goers, and travelers who wish to have an early start. The final boats depart by around 9:00 PM, with specific times variably shifting depending on the season.

Peak Frequency: During heavy volumes of passengers—especially 7:00 to 9:00 AM and 5:00 to 7:00 PM—a boat is dispatched every 10 to 12 minutes, offering frequent and convenient service with little delay.

Off-Peak Frequency: Off-peak, the route is operated on a standard 15 to 20-minute schedule, balancing passenger demand with optimal operating costs.

Seasonal Adjustments: To accommodate Venice's packed events calendar, the service schedule is revised from time to time. Extra frequencies are inserted in peak festivals such as Carnevale, Easter, or the Venice Biennale. During winter or low season months, services are cut back.

Getting Latest Timetables

Check the ACTV official website for PDF download timetables.

Use the AVM Venezia App that offers real-time positioning, live platform announcements, and navigation instructions.

Consult on-board vaporetto stop notices, refreshed regularly with current schedules and line maps.

Thanks to frequency and steadfast monitoring of schedules, Line 5.2 is a trusty way to get around—particularly for those who don't want to get on the crowded Grand Canal but prefer to ride comfortably between main districts and island stops.

Buy the Best St.Mark's Square Pass

Exploring Vaporetto Line 5.2

Visitor Information

Line 5.2 is particularly advantageous:

Time-pressed tourists need to go through a sequence of zones within a short time.

Everyday citizens travel daily between Venice and Giudecca, and to  Lido.

Those wishing to bypass the Grand Canal and tourist-congested areas like Line 1.

Accessibility is sufficiently provided for:

Flat ramps and platforms exist in all but some stations.

Bilingual audio intercoms (Italian and English) to assist passengers.

It should be noted that Line 5.2 goes in a clockwise direction—a note that can stop tourists from boarding in the incorrect direction.

Ticket Information

Types of Tickets

Single Ride Ticket: 75 minutes of validity from validation, on all ACTV vaporetto and bus lines.

Tourist Travel Cards: unlimited travel for 1, 2, 3, or 7 days.

Venezia Unica City Pass: personalized pass with transport and cultural attractions.

Where to Buy Tickets

ACTV ticket vending machines at the principal stops such as Piazzale Roma, Ferrovia, and Lido.

ACTV offices, tobacconists, and newsagents displaying the ACTV sign.

Online or from the AVM Venezia App, which generates scannable QR codes.

Validation and Discounts

All tickets must be validated before boarding by way of the green or white card readers.

Children under 6 usually travel for free.

There are discounts for residents, seniors, and multi-day travellers.

Recommended Tickets

Art & Architecture Walking Tour with Gondola Ride

Highlights Walking Tour with Scenic Traghetto Canal Cruise

Venetian Elegance: Lagoon Cruise with Live Classical Music

What to Expect Onboard (Detailed Version)

Travelers choosing to ride Vaporetto Line 5.2 can anticipate a clean, punctual, and efficient ride. As part of the ACTV fleet, Line 5.2 has standard quality of service, so it is a good choice whether one is having a short trip or commuting around the city on a longer trip.

Seating: The ships have indoor cabins as well as limited outdoor seating, primarily at the rear deck. While the interiors give shelter from outside weather, the open space outside allows passengers to enjoy open-air lagoon views. 

In warm weather, these back-facing seats are highly sought after for brief periods of scenic viewing.

Accessibility: Wheelchair ramps, low-floor boarding, and mobility aid and pram areas are featured in the ships. This makes Line 5.2 accessible to all visitors irrespective of age or requirement, e.g., families with babies or children, or travelers with limited mobility.

Baggage: On board, medium-sized luggage and traveling bags can be carried. But they should be placed in a way so as not to obstruct aisles, exits, or otherwise inconvenience other passengers. For other vehicles, greater suitcases would be ideal or kept unused in peak hours.

Pets: Pets are permitted, if they are going to be brought along in safe pet carriers which will not disturb other travelers. Pets' owners should ensure pets are kept under control and in containment during the course of the journey.

Audio Announcements: Bilingual stop announcements in English and Italian are available on this line, making the stops more accessible to non-Italian speakers with greater confidence. This is especially useful for tourists who have no familiarity with the Venice organization. 

Line 5.2 vs Other Vaporetto Lines (Extended Version)

Understanding how Line 5.2 is different from other major vaporetto lines can help visitors plan their time, purpose, and scenery interest.

Line 5.2 vs. Line 5.1: The two lines follow the same route but in the opposite direction. Line 5.2 is clockwise and offers a slightly different perspective of Venice's canals.

It is for travelers who want to reach certain destinations faster, based on their starting point.

Line 5.2 vs Line 1: Line 1 is more suited to tourist travel, going at a leisurely pace along the Grand Canal and stopping at a large number of stops. It's perfect for first-time tourists who want to experience the city's architecture and history by water. Line 5.2 shoots the Grand Canal from the name of speed and efficiency and is therefore perfect for commuters as well as frequent travelers.

Line 5.2 vs Line 4.1/4.2: The lines 4.1 and 4.2 primarily cater to the Murano district and the Fondamente Nove waterfront, both of which are important for excursions to outer islands. Line 5.2, on the other hand, primarily caters to the city center and the southern and eastern districts like Giudecca and Lido, and is thus more convenient for tourists with frequent excursions to those districts.

Generally speaking, Line 5.2 is suited for utility transport and not tourism, saved time for commuters, and critical inter-island links.

Tips for Riding Vaporetto Line 5.2 (Long Version)

Optimizing the use of Vaporetto Line 5.2 is a matter of sense and planning, particularly during peak travel times:

Arrive Early: To allow easier boarding, especially at crowded stops like Ferrovia (Santa Lucia) and Piazzale Roma, come 10 to 15 minutes earlier than departure. This will also maximize chances of acquiring a seat of your preference, especially during rush hours.

Ride the Full Loop: If time allows, taking the full loop can give a good visual idea of the topography of Venice's lagoons. The loop is mainly helpful for orientation, acquaintance, or a relaxing ride in less touristy parts.

Skip Line 1 Crowds: In high-tourist seasons, Line 1 can be very crowded. Taking Line 5.2 is a quicker, less crowded option that still reaches most of the main stops.

Use Prepaid or Virtual Passes: To avoid time wasted at ticket counters, tourists are advised to buy digital passes through the AVM Venezia App or on the official ACTV website. The passes are easily scanned at vaporetto gates, avoiding lines.

Confirm Direction: To avoid erroneous backtracking, visitors should confirm the direction of travel before getting on board. Anticlockwise Line 5.2 direction is counterintuitive to some tourists and is therefore recommended to check directional boards or consult ACTV personnel at the landing.

These suggestions enhance the usability and enjoyment of Line 5.2 and enable tourists to make the most of their ride along Venice's most important maritime artery.

Best Vaporetto Pass: Best Venice Public Transport

Conclusion

Line 5.2 Vaporetto is a Venice transportation staple. It is the preferred choice of those who need to cover big parts of the city in a short period of time because it is regular, fast, and has conveniently located stops.

For stressed-out tourists, Lido or Giudecca commuters, and locals living their normal lives, Line 5.2 provides unmatched dependability. As a Grand Canal line's backup or direct inter-island alternative, this clockwise route provides a dependable, fast, and panoramic ride along Venice's liquid roads.

Travelers are encouraged to include Vaporetto Line 5.2 in plans for a more seamless and connected Venetian experience.






















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