The Venue

San Servolo is a small, quiet island in the Venetian Lagoon, located just a few minutes by boat from St. Mark’s Square. Today, it is known as a peaceful cultural and conference center, offering green spaces, historic buildings, and views of Venice’s skyline.

The island has a long and varied history. In the early Middle Ages, it was home to a Benedictine monastery, which later became a military hospital. From the late 18th century until 1978, San Servolo was used as a psychiatric hospital, making it an important site in the history of mental health care in Italy. After the hospital closed, the island was restored and repurposed. It now hosts international meetings, exhibitions, and educational programs, while preserving traces of its past through museums and archives.

Today, San Servolo combines natural beauty with historical depth, offering visitors a calm retreat from the busy streets of central Venice.

Venice International University is located on San Servolo Island, about 10 minutes by boat from Piazza San Marco.

From the City Center
The main connection is Vaporetto Line 20.

• Departs from San Zaccaria – Dock B, near Piazza San Marco (opposite Londra Palace Hotel)

• Runs regularly and operates even during strikes

You can also take Line 10 from Zattere at 8:14 a.m. (stops on request).
Use the CheBateo app to check routes and schedules.

From Piazzale Roma or the Train Station

1. Take Line 4.1 or 5.1 to San Zaccaria

2. Change to Line 20 to San Servolo

From Marco Polo Airport
Best options:

• Alilaguna waterbus to San Marco (€15), then Line 20

• Bus or taxi to Piazzale Roma, then follow directions above

Private water taxis are available but expensive (around €130).

From Treviso Airport

Take the ATVO bus to Piazzale Roma, then continue by vaporetto.

Boat Tickets (public transportation)
Single ticket (75 min): €9.50
Travel passes: 24h: €25 - 48h: €35 - 72h: €45 - 7 days: €65

Tickets are available at machines, offices, or via the AVM Venezia App.
Students staying long-term should get a Venezia Unica Card and monthly pass for discounted travel.

Arriving by Car
Park at Piazzale Roma, Tronchetto, or in Mestre (cheaper), then continue by boat.