If you’re planning a trip to Venice, Mestre is a great place to stay. This mainland town is just a short train ride or bus journey away from Venice’s historic centre, but it offers a more relaxed atmosphere and more affordable accommodation options. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best things to do in Venice Mestre, including cultural attractions, outdoor activities, and great places to eat.

Explore the Centro Storico

Mestre’s historic centre is a charming area full of narrow streets and colourful buildings. Start your exploration at Piazza Ferretto, the town’s main square, which is surrounded by cafes and shops. From here, you can wander along Via Piave, a pedestrian street lined with boutiques and gelato shops. Don’t miss the chance to visit the 15th-century Church of San Lorenzo, which has a beautiful Renaissance portal and frescoes by Tintoretto.

Visit the Civic Museum

The Civic Museum of Mestre is located in a restored 17th-century palazzo and showcases the town’s history and culture. The museum has collections of paintings, sculptures, and archaeological artefacts, as well as exhibits on local crafts and traditions. Be sure to check out the museum’s rooftop terrace, which offers panoramic views of Mestre and the surrounding countryside.

Take a Boat Tour of the Lagoon

One of the best ways to experience Venice is from the water, and Mestre offers plenty of boat tour options. You can take a traditional gondola ride through the canals of Venice, or explore the lagoon on a motorboat tour. Some tours even take you to nearby islands like Murano, famous for its glass-blowing workshops, and Burano, known for its colourful houses and lace-making tradition.

Enjoy the Outdoors

Mestre is surrounded by beautiful parks and nature reserves, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Stroll Along the Brenta River

The Brenta River runs through Mestre and offers a scenic walking path along its banks. This tree-lined path is a great place for a leisurely stroll, a bike ride, or a picnic. You can also rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the river from a different perspective.

Visit the San Giuliano Park

The San Giuliano Park is a large green space just outside Mestre’s city centre. The park has plenty of walking and cycling paths, as well as picnic areas and playgrounds. You can also visit the park’s bird observatory, which offers great views of the lagoon and its wildlife.

Indulge in Local Cuisine

Venice Mestre has plenty of great restaurants and cafes serving up delicious local cuisine.

Try Some Cicchetti

Cicchetti are small plates of food, similar to Spanish tapas, that are a popular snack in Venice. You can find cicchetti bars all over Mestre, offering a variety of tasty bites like fried seafood, meatballs, and bruschetta. Pair them with a glass of local wine or a spritz, a refreshing cocktail made with prosecco and Aperol.

Sample Some Seafood

Being so close to the sea, Mestre is known for its fresh seafood dishes. Try some spaghetti alle vongole, a pasta dish with clams, or sarde in saor, a sweet-and-sour dish made with sardines. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the black cuttlefish risotto, a local delicacy.

In conclusion, Venice Mestre is a great destination for those looking for a more relaxed and affordable base from which to explore Venice and the surrounding area. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or food, Mestre has plenty to offer. So book your trip, pack your bags, and get ready to explore all that this charming town has to offer!