Venice Railroad Station

ABOVE: A regional commuter train approaches Santa Lucia station from the Venetian mainland.

Arriving by train

When you arrive at Santa Lucia, your train will pull into one of two sheds:

The main train shed is directly behind the station hall or lobby. Most long-distance trains arrive here.
Another set of railway platforms is to the right of the station as you arrive from the mainland; this is used mainly by local and regional trains. To reach the station hall, bear left as you leave the train platform.

From the station hall, exit via the main doors. Steps lead down to a broad terrace alongside the Grand Canal, where you'll find the vaporetto landing, water taxis, and the main pedestrian thoroughfare to the city center.

Tips:

If you're traveling with wheeled luggage, a stroller, or a wheelchair, you may find it easier to bypass the station building and its stairs on your way out. In the main train shed, head toward the toilets near the left end of the station and go through the passage at the corner. Once you're outdoors, turn right at the sign and and follow the pavement down to the canal. See our photo guide to the wheelchair, stroller, and wheeled-luggage exit for more details.
The Venice Tourist Office operates a small branch in the station hall, but it's often mobbed, and the staff aren't always helpful. If you see a long line, skip the tourist office and buy a map at a newsstand or bookstore instead.
The Venice Hotel Association can help you find a room if you arrive without a booking, but you'll have to take potluck, and the hotel may be a long way from the station. We'd suggest booking before you arrive, using our Venice Railroad Station Hotels article or our Venice Hotel Guide.
If you need to buy euros, walk past the "Change" booths and withdraw money from a bank ATM away from the station. You'll get a better rate. (But read our Money and Currency article before you leave home.)
If you need to park luggage during your stay in Venice, see our FAQ: Baggage storage page.