Rich in history, brimming with culture, and conveniently located, Mestre offers a unique blend of Venetian charm without the tourist-crowded streets of Venice herself. This vibrant borough provides an engaging, yet relaxing base for families to soak up the atmosphere and explore the beautiful Veneto region.
Whether you're looking for a budget-friendly stay or lavishing luxury accommodations, Mestre has it all. Our thoughtfully crafted guide will help you seek out the best family-friendly hotels, captivating activities and travel tips to ensure your family holiday in Mestre is an unforgettable one.
Things to do
From scenic parks to historic sites, Mestre is ideally located to offer a variety of engaging family experiences. Here are some of our top recommendations for things to see and do during your stay.
Introduce the beauty of nature to your children at Parco San Giuliano, Italy's largest metropolitan park. This park offers intriguing educational trails perfect for young hikers and a numerous bird species for the budding ornithologists in the family.
Meanwhile, the Children's Playground in Mestre is a fantastic option for active kids who need to let off some steam. With play structures for all ages and plenty of benches and picnic spots for parents, it pays to pack a picnic and spend the day in the sun.
For families who enjoy being out on the trail, Parco Alfredo Albanese comes highly recommended. With a circular trail of 17.7 kilometers, it's a great place for mountain or road biking - or a leisurely family walk. And for those craving a little learning, a quick tram ride takes you to the historical island city of Venice to explore the wonders of this famous lagoon.
When to visit
With Mestre's warm Mediterranean climate, there genuinely is no bad time for a family holiday here. However, if the sun is a significant factor for your trip, consider visiting from late June to late August when temperatures are at their highest.
If you prefer more moderate conditions for outdoor activities and sightseeing, mid-May to mid-July or mid-August to early October are ideal. While Mestre remains appealing year-round, be mindful that holidays during the school term may be more affordable and less crowded. Whichever time you choose, Mestre offers a multitude of family-friendly experiences waiting for you.
Things you'll love...
- Roam around Parco San Giuliano offering birding and walking opportunities along with splendid views of Venice.
- Enjoy the day at Mestre’s well-equipped Children's Playground; it's convenient, safe and spacious.
- Bike or walk the scenic landscapes of Parco Alfredo Albanese with beautiful natural surroundings.
- Make use of Mestre's affordable and efficient public transportation, perfect for family travel.
- Experience the rich history of Mestre, once a Roman fortress and now a buzzing urban centre.
Main airports
- Venice Marco Polo Airport,
- Treviso Airport
