Much more than just a Venetian satellite, the cityof Mestre is home to numerous parks, designershops and a central piazza with its own historic attractions. The region is aromantic and picturesque retreat for holiday makers and travellers. It’s also aregion known for its pizzerias, many of which use real traditional familyrecipes, and bakeries with homemade cakes.
Visit the idyllic PiazzaFerretto explore the square and explore its ornate, ancientbuildings. Relax by the central water fountain and let the sound of runningwater soothe you. When you’re ready, scratch that retail itch at the numerousdesigner stores in the area, especially around Galleria Matteotti. In theevening, opt for a real Italian dinner on the terrace of a restaurant on thepiazza.
Join a free tour of the 17th-century Duomo di Mestrewith its beautiful bell tower, offering excellent views over the town. Checkout the famous tower, built in 1108, the last remaining part of the wall thathas protected the city since the Middle Ages. Another example of the historicalheritage of the city is the Palazzo Podestarile this century-old building nowserves as an important government building.
If you’re on a bit of a budget, why not prepare apicnic and spend an afternoon at Parco San Giuliano. Stay until the evening andyou might just catch an open air concert. Parco di Albanese Bissuola is anotherpleasant park to spend the day in.
Try the region’s classic drink, Aperol, atraditional alcoholic drink with an orange colour that the ideal choice on ahot day. Coffee lovers will love the espresso, but be prepared for that strongItalian flavour.
Because the city is more affordable, holiday-makersoften use the location as a base for trips to the historic centre of Venice. Itoffers convenient transport links by bus and train between the two cities andthey run all day.