WATER TAXI
If you’re bored of the crowded public water buses you might want to take a private water taxi (“motoscafi”), which is an elegant and classy way to move round Venice. But we warned that they are expensive. Many will only accept cash payments so check in advance.
Airport transfer by taxi
A private taxi from the airport costs about 110-130 euros, with various surcharges depending on the number of persons and bags – 2018). You can either book in advance online or get one once you arrive (ticket offices can be found in the arrivals hall and at the taxi pier).
Trips around Venice
Like any normal taxi the Venice water taxis can be hired for journeys anywhere around the city. Some people hire them for an hour so that they can tour around the canals and see Venice from the water. Taxis can take up to 10 people onboard (although there is often a surcharge if you are more than 4 people).
Family friendliness
Taxis are really exciting for kids. They provide a completely different view of Venice, especially if you’re going around some of the smaller canals. Inside they are comfortable and luxurious.
Despite being stunningly beautiful and classy, there really is no elegant way to get on and off the taxis. The driver will help you on and help you get your bags on too. Kids can find it difficult as the boats usually rock quite a lot. Usually one of us gets on first and the other hands the kids to them from the pier. Then we sort out the bags and prams afterwards. As we always say, please watch your kids extra carefully here. The piers are narrow and children are obviously very excited. If you are travelling around the canals please remember that you often need to duck when going under bridges (my brother always forgets and my husband has had to literally jump on top of him on several occasions to save him from banging his head). We play a game with our kids where they have to shout “Briiiiiiiiidge” as soon as they see one so everyone has time to prepare!
Taxi companies
There are several private taxi companies. You can book online, on the phone, or just go to the taxi rank at any major sight (airport, station, San Marco) and take one directly). Here are a couple of companies: