My previous trip to Slovenia (Ljubljana) is here:
From Slovenia to Venice, Italy, it takes only about 2 hours by bus.
Since the trip up to this point involved long bus rides, this 2-hour distance felt really manageable—and it was much easier on the body.
Stay in Mestre on the Mainland｜Best Value for the Money
This time I stayed at:
Anda Venice Hostel
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It was about €66 for 4 nights—great value.
When sightseeing in Venice, you usually choose between:
- Staying on the island (Venice)
- Staying on the mainland (Mestre)
The mainland is much cheaper, so this time I stayed in Mestre.
It was a dorm-style hostel, but:
- The interior is very clean
- There’s a kitchen
- The first floor turns into a club on weekends (lol)
Overall, it’s a great environment for backpackers.
It’s also close to Mestre Station, so personally I felt like I scored a great place. If you’re searching for accommodation, I can honestly recommend it.
The area around Mestre feels more residential and less touristy.
Because of that, you can experience more local Italian daily life.
Take-Out Pizza in Mestre
I mostly cooked at the hostel, but you know—when you’re in Italy, you really should have pizza at least once.
I went to:
Il Pizzaiolo Magico
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It’s a small local pizza place—worth the walk.
Taking your time to eat an entire pizza by yourself is the best kind of luxury.
These simple moments are the ones that stick with you most during a trip.
How to Get to Venice (Super Easy)
Time to go to Venice—the city of canals.
From Mestre Station to Santa Lucia Station, it’s just one stop by train.
Travel time is about 10 minutes.
You can easily buy tickets from machines at the station.
The “Ordinary 3 zones Mi1-Mi3” ticket is fine (about €2.2).
The train is clean and comfortable—before you know it, you’ve arrived.
Tip:
You can also take the bus, but the train is easier and more straightforward.
Venice｜Another World the Moment You Arrive
The scenery changes completely as soon as you leave the station.
The city’s network of canals is exactly what you imagine from “the City of Water.”
No matter where you walk, the scenery is picture-perfect.
Note:
Even though it’s a tourist destination, people actually live here—so manners matter.
Recommended Food in Venice
Easy Local Food
Bacareto da Lele
Panini are about €1.3—super cheap.
You can even drink wine in the morning, making it the best possible start to the day.
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A Famous Take-Out Pasta Spot
Dal Moro's
A popular spot tucked away in an alley.
The carbonara is incredible, and you’ll be fully satisfied for about €10.
The line outside is easy to spot.
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Gelato for Dessert
Gelateria Gallonetto
About €1.9.
I especially recommend the lemon flavor—very high quality.
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For a Spritz
Bacaro Risorto
It has an open terrace area.
You can enjoy a spritz for about €4.5.
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Sightseeing Spots You Should Visit
Rialto Bridge
Venice’s most famous bridge over the
Grand Canal (Canal Grande).
It was built in the 16th century, and there are shops along the bridge.
Truly an iconic landmark of Venice.
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Saint Mark’s Basilica
A historic church built in the 9th century.
It enshrines Saint Mark, the patron saint of Venice.
You need a ticket to enter, which you can buy online via QR code.
Entry is time-slotted, so buying in advance is recommended.
Official site:
https://tickets.basilicasanmarco.it/en/store#/en/buy?skugroup_id=2524
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Islands I Didn’t Visit, But Want To
I didn’t visit these islands this time, but if you have the time, I recommend them:
- Giudecca Island
- Burano Island (famous for colorful streets)
- Lido Island (beaches & the Venice Film Festival)
Especially Lido Island is well-known as the venue for the Venice International Film Festival, so I’d love to go next time.
Should You Ride a Gondola?
Gondola rides are a classic Venice activity.
The price is fixed by time, so it’s quite expensive if you’re alone.
I recommend splitting the cost with multiple people.
If you’re solo, using a tour service like GetYourGuide is more realistic.
I didn’t ride one this time to save money… but honestly, I kind of regret it.
It’s worth doing.
Venice is Best When You Just Walk
In Venice, rather than “checking off tourist spots,” simply walking around is the most enjoyable way to spend your time.
- Walk through the alleys
- Zone out along the canals
- Take tons of photos
This simple style fits the city best.
It’s heaven for photography lovers.
Summary｜Venice is a City Where Walking Alone Can Satisfy You
Looking back on this Venice trip:
- Staying in Mestre keeps costs down
- You can fully enjoy Venice even as a day trip
- The food, scenery, and atmosphere are all top notch
It ended up being a highly satisfying trip.
What struck me most was this:
“Even though it’s touristy, just walking around is fun.”
Honestly, instead of stuffing your schedule, it’s best to walk wherever you feel like.
If I go next time:
- I’m definitely riding a gondola
- I’ll visit Burano Island and Lido Island too
I’d love to do those.
Next stop: Milan, Italy 🇮🇹
