This mainland district of Venice serves as a gateway to the lagoon city. It has a calm atmosphere, with parks, shops, and restaurants catering to locals and visitors alike.
Mestre, a city on the Italian mainland opposite Venice, is home to the central Piazza Ferretto, the innovative M9 Museum, and the expansive San Giuliano Park. As a convenient location for exploring Venice and the Veneto region, Mestre appeals to budget-conscious travelers and those interested in experiencing everyday Italian life.
Exploring Mestre's Heart: Piazza Ferretto
Piazza Ferretto is the center of Mestre's social life, a square surrounded by cafes, shops, and historical buildings. The 12th-century Clock Tower, a remnant of the town's medieval fortifications, stands at one end. You can sit at a cafe terrace, browse the local boutiques, or look at the Art Nouveau architecture of the former Excelsior Cinema. The square's pedestrian-friendly layout makes it easy to walk around, especially in the evenings when locals gather for their traditional passeggiata.
Discovering Modern History at M9 Museum
The M9 Museum presents 20th-century Italian history through multimedia exhibits. As Europe's largest multimedia museum, M9 uses interactive displays and immersive technologies to show Italy's recent past. You can explore exhibits covering social changes and technological advancements, giving you an overview of Italy's last hundred years. The museum's contemporary architecture adds a modern element to Mestre's cityscape.
Relaxing in San Giuliano Park
San Giuliano Park, spanning 74 hectares, is Mestre's largest green space and offers views of the Venice lagoon. This park has walking and cycling paths, picnic areas, and open spaces for sports and relaxation. The park hosts various events throughout the year, including concerts and festivals. On clear days, you can see Venice across the lagoon, creating a contrast between the park and the city in the distance.
Connecting to Venice and Beyond
Mestre's location makes it a practical starting point for exploring Venice and the surrounding region. Trains depart from Mestre station to Venice Santa Lucia every 10-15 minutes. Buses also run regularly between Mestre and Venice's Piazzale Roma. From Mestre, you can easily reach other Veneto cities like Padua, Vicenza, and Treviso. The proximity to Marco Polo Airport also makes Mestre a convenient first or last stop on your Italian trip.
Local Cuisine
Mestre's restaurants reflect the traditions of Venetian cuisine with a more local, everyday approach. You can try regional specialties like sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines) or baccalà alla vicentina (creamed cod) at traditional trattorias. For authentic local dining, visit Trattoria da Terzo, a family-run establishment serving Venetian classics since the 1970s. Mestre's restaurants often have lower prices compared to those in Venice, allowing you to eat quality Italian food at a reduced cost.
