A Guide to Mestre Station: Your Gateway to Venice

Mestre Station serves as the bustling heart of Venice’s mainland, providing a convenient and efficient connection to the iconic city. Whether you’re arriving from the airport, another Italian city or exploring the local area, Mestre Station is your starting point for an unforgettable Venetian adventure

• Why Mestre Station is the Gateway to Venice
  • How to get from Venice to Mestre Station
• Getting to Mestre Station: Routes, Trains and Connectivity
  • How to get from Venice Airport to Mestre Station
• Facilities at Mestre Station: Everything you Need for a Comfortable Journey
  • Dining Options: Cafes, Restaurants and Quick Snacks at Mestre
  • Luggage Storage and Lockers: Hassle-Free Exploration
  • Ticket Counters, Information Desks and Helpful Services
• Exploring Mestre: What to do Near the Station
• Discover Italy with Italo

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Why Mestre Station is the Gateway to Venice

Located just across the lagoon from Venice, Mestre Station offers a strategic location that makes it easy to reach the city centre. With frequent Italo trains connecting Mestre to major Italian cities, it’s the perfect base for your Italian getaway.

While many visitors may favour the picturesque Santa Lucia station, Mestre offers significant advantages in terms of accessibility, convenience and variety of amenities. This guide will delve into the features of Mestre Station, how to navigate it and what you can do nearby.

It is a bustling hub that connects various regions of Italy and beyond. With approximately 500 trains passing through daily, it facilitates quick and efficient travel to Venice Santa Lucia, the main station in the city. The journey from Mestre to Venice takes about 10-12 minutes, with trains departing frequently throughout the day.

How to get from Venice to Mestre Station

Getting from Venice to Mestre is a breeze! Simply hop on a train to Mestre from Venice’s main railway station, Santa Lucia. It’s a short and regular journey, making it a convenient option for day trips or longer stays.

Trains run every 10-15 minutes during peak hours, making it easy for those staying in Venice to access accommodation or amenities in Mestre. Simply board a train at Santa Lucia station and you will arrive at Mestre in no time. This quick transit makes it the ideal choice for visitors looking to explore both locations without hassle.

Getting to Mestre Station: Routes, Trains and Connectivity

Mestre Station is a well-connected transportation hub. In addition to Italo’s high-speed trains, the station offers connections to regional and local services, making it easy to explore the surrounding areas. The station has nine platforms, with ongoing expansion to improve capacity and services.

How to get from Venice Airport to Mestre Station

Arriving at Marco Polo Airport? Getting to Mestre Station is simple. Take the Airport Bus, the ATVO Fly Bus, which connects Venice Marco Polo Airport directly to Mestre Station. This service is particularly convenient for travellers who wish to avoid navigating through Venice’s often congested waterways upon arrival.

Facilities at Mestre Station: Everything you Need for a Comfortable Journey

Mestre Station is designed with traveller comfort in mind. Here’s what you can expect.

Dining Options: Cafes, Restaurants and Quick Snacks at Mestre 

Savour a quick coffee and pastry before your journey or indulge in a leisurely meal at one of the station’s eateries.

• Hostaria Vite Rossa: This cozy bacaro serves traditional Venetian snacks alongside a selection of regional wines. The atmosphere is relaxed and family-friendly, making it a great spot for both locals and tourists.
• Da Michele: Located just two minutes from the station, Da Michele is famous for its extensive menu that includes pizza, pasta and burgers. The restaurant has a lively atmosphere and is ideal for families.
• Soul Kitchen Café: This bright café features industrial-chic design and serves breakfast items along with classic Italian dishes. It’s conveniently located right opposite Mestre Station.
• Pasta & Pizza e non solo: This casual eatery focuses on comfort food with an emphasis on pasta and pizza. It’s an unpretentious spot where you can enjoy quality meals without breaking the bank.

Luggage Storage and Lockers: Hassle-Free Exploration 

Leave your luggage securely stored in lockers, allowing you to explore Venice hands-free.

One of the most practical features of Mestre Station is its luggage storage services. If you arrive early, or have some time before your next Italo train, you can store your bags securely while you explore the area or venture into Venice. This service allows for a more relaxed experience without the burden of carrying heavy luggage.

Ticket Counters, Information Desks and Helpful Services 

Navigating travel can sometimes be daunting, but Mestre Station offers comprehensive support through its ticket counters and information desks. Friendly staff are available to assist with purchasing tickets or providing directions. Additionally, ticket machines are conveniently located throughout the station for those who prefer self-service options.

Find out more about Train Travel in Italy: Guide to Tickets, Trains and Tips

Exploring Mestre: What to do Near the Station

While Venice is undoubtedly the star attraction, Mestre offers its own unique charm. Explore the historic centre, visit the local markets or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Grand Canal. For those seeking a more active experience, consider renting a bike and exploring the surrounding countryside.

The vibrant Piazza Ferretto also serves as the heart of the town and is lined with shops, cafes and local attractions. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture before heading into Venice or after returning from their explorations.

Located in Piazza Ferretto, the Torre dell’Orologio (Clock Tower) is one of Mestre’s most significant historical landmarks. This beautifully restored tower features swallowtail battlements and a large 16th-century clock. It also hosts temporary art exhibitions, making it a cultural focal point in the area. Visitors can explore its history and enjoy views of the square from its base.

The Duomo di Mestre (Cathedral of Mestre) is an important religious site located near Piazza Ferretto. This cathedral features beautiful architecture and artwork that reflects its historical significance within the community.

The Galleria Matteotti is an architectural gem in Mestre, showcasing early 20th-century Art Nouveau design. Inaugurated in 1912, it features a distinctive steel and glass loggia reminiscent of Parisian architecture. Inside, visitors can find historic shops and boutiques while enjoying the beautiful original pavement. The gallery is particularly stunning at sunset when light patterns dance across its stained-glass windows.

A short distance from Mestre’s centre lies Forte Marghera, a historical fortress dating back to the 19th century. This star-shaped fortification has been redeveloped into a cultural space that hosts food stalls, exhibitions and events. It offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore its historical significance while enjoying modern amenities.

Discover Italy with Italo

From the romantic canals of Venice to the ancient ruins of Rome, Italo offers high-speed connections to all the major cities. Start planning your Italian getaway today!