If you’re facing a layover and wondering about things to do at Venice Marco Polo Airport, expectations matter. This is a practical, mid-sized European airport rather than a destination in itself, but it does offer enough basics to keep most travellers fed, occupied, and reasonably comfortable while waiting for their next flight. Whether you’re killing time between connections or preparing for an overnight stay, there are a few simple ways to pass the hours without venturing too far out of your comfort zone.
1. Dine out
Food options at Venice Marco Polo Airport are limited but generally reliable, with a focus on familiar Italian comfort foods. Most travellers will find pizza by the slice, pasta dishes, panini, salads, and pastries, along with plenty of espresso bars serving strong Italian coffee.
If you’re looking to sample something local, keep an eye out for Italian bakery items, cured meats, cheeses, and regional sweets, as well as gelato and tiramisu-style desserts. Some cafés also stock packaged Venetian and Italian food products that travel well, such as biscuits, chocolates, and snack-sized treats.
This is not a culinary destination, and choices thin out quickly late in the evening. No restaurants operate overnight, so travellers staying late should plan ahead and pick up food before kitchens close.
2. Relax in a lounge
If you’re looking for a quieter place to sit with food, drinks, Wi-Fi, and sometimes showers, consider an airport lounge. Access is no longer limited to Business or First Class travellers; some lounges accept walk-in guests or lounge program members. Entry methods vary, so it’s best to check access options in advance. For current lounge details, see our Venice Airport Guide.
3. Browse the shops
Browsing the shops is one of the easier ways to pass time here. As expected in Italy, retail leans toward fashion, accessories, and Italian-made products, even within the airport setting. You’ll find well-known Italian and international brands alongside Duty-Free outlets selling perfume, cosmetics, wine, and spirits.
For souvenirs or gifts, look for Italian food items such as chocolates, sweets, olive oil products, and packaged regional specialties. There are also bookstores, newsstands, and convenience shops for reading material, snacks, and travel essentials. Shopping won’t occupy hours, but it’s enough to stretch your legs and pick up something distinctly Italian before you fly.
4. Explore Venice
If you have a longer layover and meet entry requirements, heading into Venice can be a rewarding use of time. The airport is relatively close to the historic city, and transport options include water transport, buses, and taxis, all of which connect you to the main areas visitors want to see.
With at least 6–7 hours total layover time, you can realistically travel into the city, take a short walk, and return to the airport without rushing excessively. Many travellers focus on wandering near Piazza San Marco, crossing a few bridges, or exploring quieter side streets away from the heaviest crowds. Even a brief stroll offers a sense of Venice’s atmosphere, architecture, and canals.
Keep plans simple and watch the time closely. Venice is compact but easy to get turned around in, and return transport times can vary. This option works best for confident travellers who are comfortable navigating independently and building in a buffer before their next flight. Visit Tripadvisor for more things to do in Venice.
5. Get Connected
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, allowing you to message family, check flights, or pass the time online.
6. Sleep
It’s possible to rest at Venice Marco Polo Airport, but overnight comfort is limited. Seating is sparse, and many benches are wooden or designed to discourage long stays. Travellers sleeping overnight should expect periodic checks by security staff, including ticket or passport verification.
The terminal can feel cold and noisy at night, so warm layers and earplugs help. Some travellers have reported non-travellers spending the night in the public areas, which may affect comfort levels. If proper rest is a priority, nearby airport hotels may be a better option. See our Venice Marco Polo Airport Guide for hotel locations and access details.
Updated 07 January 2026
These are just a few things to do on a layover at Venice Airport. Visit our Venice Airport Guide for more information about services and facilities, such as food, WiFi, mobile charging, luggage storage, nearby airport hotels, and much more.