Driving to Venice is one of the trip's few real headaches — because you can't actually drive into Venice. There are no cars on the islands, and the car parks at the edge (Tronchetto and Piazzale Roma) are expensive and often full. Staying in Mestre solves this neatly.
Park in Mestre, leave the car, and take the bus, tram or train across to Venice. Mainland parking runs roughly €5–€20 per day, versus €21–€45 per day on the island — so park-and-ride typically saves €25–30 a day, and you skip the stress of hunting for an island space.
1. Drive to Mestre (it's just before the bridge to Venice — you don't cross onto the island).
2. Leave the car in a mainland car park or garage.
3. Take the bus / tram (€1.50) or the train (~€1.50) the short hop into Venice. See our transport guide.
Some mainland lots even include a free shuttle toward Venice, though the public bus/tram is usually simplest.
| Where | Typical cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mestre — mainland lots & garages | ~€5–€20 / 24h | Cheapest overall; some with free shuttle |
| Near Mestre station | ~€14–€20 / 24h | Handy if you'll take the train |
| Tronchetto / Piazzale Roma (island edge) | ~€21–€45 / day | Expensive, often full — avoid if you can |
(Prices vary by lot and season — last checked July 2026. Book ahead in peak periods.)
Our apartments are set up for exactly this — you arrive by car, park nearby, and hop across to Venice by bus in about 15 minutes. Message us before you arrive and we'll point you to the most convenient parking for your dates and tell you the nearest bus stop.
Can I park in Venice itself?
No — Venice's islands are car-free. The only parking is at the edge (Tronchetto, Piazzale Roma), which is expensive and often full. Parking in Mestre and taking the bus or train is cheaper and easier.
How much does parking in Mestre cost?
Roughly €5–€20 per 24 hours depending on the lot, versus €21–€45 per day on the island.
How do I get from my Mestre parking to Venice?
By bus or tram (€1.50) or train (~€1.50) — about 10–16 minutes. See our transport guide.