Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE) isn't on the islands. It sits on the mainland about 12 kilometres north of the historic centre, out near Mestre, and it's one of Italy's busier airports, running European and intercontinental routes all year. That mainland position is the key to the whole stay-near-the-airport question: hotels near Venice Airport, mostly in Mestre and Tessera, cost a fraction of a room beside the canals.
Hotels near the airport
Getting onto the island is the easy part. The Alilaguna water bus glides you straight into the canals, while land buses and taxis run to Mestre's train station, where trains reach Venezia Santa Lucia in a few minutes. Basing yourself in Mestre is the budget move, and a sensible one if you've an early or late flight.
Travellers passing through Venice can choose from 3 airport hotels near Venice Marco Polo Airport. Highly-rated choices include Crowne Plaza Venice East, NH Venezia Laguna Palace, Hilton Molino Stucky Venice.