Venice Mainland

Venice Mainland holidays

Want to discover the real Venice? Welcome to Mestre on the mainland. Sure, a stay next to St Mark’s Square has its charms, but leave the tourists behind and you’ll be in for a treat. Think local flavours for a fraction of the price, hidden gems to show off to friends, and insider tips only the Venetians know.
The magic of Mestre

The magic of Mestre

In this go-slow suburb, Piazza Ferretto is where it’s at. People watching from cafés by day and dining under the stars by night are how things roll here. History buffs, look out for the 18th-century church of St Lorenzo and impressive clock tower in the corner. Meanwhile, you can see Mestre’s modern side at Centro Le Barche – a glossy mall housing favourites like H&M and Mango. When the sun gets too much, do as the locals do and retreat to the shade of San Giuliano Park.

Delightful day-tripping

Delightful day-tripping

One of the best things about being based in Mestre is that you’re all set to explore more beyond Venice thanks to its well-connected train station. Fashionistas can reach Milan in 2.5hrs tops, while art fans can be in Florence in just a couple of hours. The handsome streets of Verona and waterfront towns of Lake Garda are doable in a day from here too. Plus, tickets are cheap and trains are really regular, so it’s well worth planning a day trip. Italy is your oyster…

Getting to Venice

Getting to Venice

When you want to see Venice’s must-see sights, there are several ways to get there. First up is the train, and you can catch one every five minutes or so at Venezia Mestre train station. The trip takes just 10 to 12 minutes to get to Venezia Santa Lucia station on the outskirts of the historic centre. You can also take a 15-minute bus ride or jump on the T1 tram to Piazzale Roma. Whichever you choose, you’ll be about a 20-minute walk from St Mark’s Square once you get off.

Antony Hotel
Jet2CityBreaks
from
£305pp
Based on
  • Birmingham, Thu 27 Feb 2025
  • 3 Nights, Bed and Breakfast
  • 3 Adults, 0 Children

Antony Hotel

Venice Mainland, Venice

Our rating

Based on 1917 reviews

  • Great for local charm
  • Peaceful residential location
  • Family rooms available
  • Modern style
  • Within easy reach of Venice by public transport
NH Venezia Laguna Palace
Jet2CityBreaks
from
£287pp
Based on
  • Birmingham, Thu 06 Mar 2025
  • 3 Nights, Bed and Breakfast
  • 2 Adults, 0 Children

NH Venezia Laguna Palace

Venice Mainland, Venice

Our rating

Based on 3437 reviews

  • Modern style
  • Within easy reach of Venice by public transport
  • 40m from the nearest bus stop
  • Good range of facilities
  • Certified Sustainable Hotel
Best Western Hotel Tritone Mestre
Jet2CityBreaks
from
£285pp
Based on
  • Birmingham, Thu 06 Mar 2025
  • 3 Nights, Room Only
  • 3 Adults, 0 Children

Best Western Hotel Tritone Mestre

Venice Mainland, Venice

Our rating

Based on 1959 reviews

  • Great for couples and friends
  • 10m from the nearest bus stop
  • Within easy reach of Venice by public transport
  • Comfortable accommodation
  • Great for a good value stay
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Accademia Gallery

Accademia Gallery

Venice

Founded in 1807 by Napoleon, the greatest collection of Venetian paintings in the world hangs in the Gallerie della Accademia on the south bank of the Grand Canal. Take the water bus or walk across Accademia...
Arsenale

Arsenale

Venice

Although the Arsenale is still owned by the navy, these days it is more likely to be hosting exhibitions and performances than the impressive ships which were built here until the early 1900s. Many historical...
Bridge of Sighs

Bridge of Sighs

Venice

The Bridge of Sighs connects the opulent Doge's Palace with the new prison, and is named after the sighs of the prisoners who passed across it. The limestone enclosure crosses the Rio di Palazzo and the bars on...