Mestre City breaks

In Mestre, city energy mixes with residential calm to create a Venetian suburb like no other. Over on the mainland, away from the city centre crowds, Mestre’s the gateway to the lagoon, offering easy access to Venice’s top sights and attractions. 

Together with Carpenedo, Marghera, Favaro Veneto, Chirignago, Zelarino, and Tessera, Mestre forms part of the Greater Venice area. However, as it was only incorporated into Venice in the 1920s, it still has its own independent character. The modern town feels very different to the city’s historic centre. 

Mestre has emerged as a top destination for savvy travellers exploring Venice, thanks to its strategic location and affordable transportation options. Mestre hotels are often cheaper than city centre alternatives, leaving you with more to spend on one-of-a-kind experiences, like those iconic gondola rides along the Grand Canal. 

But Mestre’s more than just a base. It’s got a lively nightlife scene, cute shopping streets, and a vibrant cultural atmosphere waiting to be explored. From charming cafes to busy markets, Mestre offers a taste of the authentic lifestyle of Italy beyond the tourist crowds of Venice. 

Just so you know, the local government of Venice has introduced a new regulation to ensure the city doesn’t become overcrowded and is enjoyable for those visiting. For a two-week period from 18 April and then every weekend (Fri-Sun) from 2 May – 27 July 2025, entry to the city of Venice between 08:30 and 16:00 is subject to payment of the Venice Access Contribution fee.
 
If you’re staying within the city of Venice and paying the Tourist Tax, you won’t need to pay the access fee, but you’ll need to register for a QR code as proof of your stay. Anyone under the age of 14 is also exempt but may need to show proof of age.
 
To register for your QR code, please follow these steps:

• Head to the official website https://cda.ve.it/en/ and click “Exemptions”
• Select "Go to Exemptions" and then “I am a guest in an accommodation facility located in the municipality of Venice”
• Select “Request exemption”, enter your arrival and departure dates and provide answers to the other questions about your personal information
• In the data entry screen, add the name and address of where you’re staying
• Add names of other guests under “Add holder”
• Once you’ve completed the online form and added all necessary info, you’ll receive your QR code electronically – be sure to keep this safe and accessible on your device so you can show it as and when required