Overview

Traveling from Bologna Airport (BLQ) to Mestre—the mainland gateway to Venice—spans approximately 150 km (93 miles) and takes about 1 hour 45 minutes by road. This route is popular among travelers heading to Venice’s iconic canals or exploring Mestre’s blend of urban convenience and Venetian charm. Whether opting for a private transfer from Bologna Airport to Mestre or public transit, planning ahead ensures a smooth start to your Italian adventure.

Getting to Know Mestre

Mestre serves as Venice’s practical counterpart, offering affordable accommodations and easy access to Venice via a 10-minute train ride. While often overshadowed by its famous neighbor, Mestre boasts lively piazzas like Piazza Ferretto, local markets, and proximity to Venetian landmarks like the Rialto Bridge. Its strategic location makes it ideal for travelers seeking convenience without sacrificing cultural experiences.

Arriving at Bologna Airport

Bologna Guglielmo Marconi Airport is compact and efficient. After landing:

• Follow signage to baggage claim and exits.
• Currency exchange desks and ATMs are available near arrivals.
• Free Wi-Fi lets you confirm your Mestre transfer from Bologna Airport details instantly.

Main Transfer Options

Public Transport (Train & Bus)

Train:

• Take the Marconi Express monorail from BLQ to Bologna Centrale (7 minutes, €11).
• From there, Trenitalia trains run hourly to Venezia Mestre (1h 15m–1h 40m, €10–€25). Bus: FlixBus offers direct routes from Bologna Centrale to Mestre (1h 50m, €8–€15).

Taxi & Rideshare

A taxi from Bologna Airport to Mestre costs €150–€200 one-way. Pre-book via licensed operators like A2B for fixed rates. Avoid unmarked cars at arrivals—stick to official taxi ranks or app-based services like Uber (limited availability).

Car Rentals

Major agencies like Hertz and Europcar operate at BLQ. Note:

• Driving in Venice’s mainland requires familiarity with ZTL (Limited Traffic Zones).
• Parking in Mestre costs €15–€25/day; pre-book via apps like Parkopedia.

Private Transfer: Stress-Free Comfort

For seamless travel, book a private transfer Bologna Airport to Mestre. Services like A2B provide:

• Fixed pricing (€130–€180) with no hidden fees.
• Door-to-door service in spacious vehicles (sedans/MPVs).
• Free waiting time up to 60 minutes post-landing.

Choosing the Best Method

Recommendations:

• Budget travelers: Train/bus combo via Bologna Centrale.
• Families/groups: Private transfers offer cost efficiency and luggage space.
• Late arrivals: Pre-booked taxis or transfers avoid delays.

Travel Tips & Local Insights

• Peak times: Trains fill quickly during summer; reserve seats via Trenitalia.
• Scenic detour: Ask your driver to take SS309 "Romea" for coastal views of the Adriatic Sea.
• Booking window: Secure your Bologna Airport transfer to Mestre at least 48 hours ahead during high season (June–September).

Reaching Your Final Destination

Most transfers drop you directly at your Mestre hotel or apartment. If staying near Venezia Mestre Station:

• Local buses (ACTV) connect key areas—tickets cost €1.50 from tobacconists.
• Walkable districts include Piazza Ferretto (10 minutes from the station).

Where to Get More Info

• Venezia Unica: Official Venice tourism portal for transit passes and event tickets.
• A2B Transfers: Reliable private transfer Bologna Airport to Mestre with real-time driver tracking.
• Trenitalia Timetables: Check regional train schedules.

FAQ

How much is a taxi from Bologna Airport to Mestre?

A licensed taxi from Bologna Airport to Mestre costs €150–€200 one-way. Pre-booking through platforms like A2B locks in fixed rates upfront.

Are private transfers faster than trains?

Yes—a private transfer Bologna Airport to Mestre takes ~1h45m door-to-door vs ~2h+ via train connections.

Can I book a last-minute transfer?

Yes, but availability dips in peak season. Use apps like A2B for same-day bookings with instant confirmation.

Is public transport wheelchair-friendly?

Trains offer limited accessibility; private transfers provide wheelchair-adapted vehicles upon request when booked in advance.

What’s the cheapest way from BLQ to Mestre?

FlixBus from Bologna Centrale costs €8–€15 but requires taking the Marconi Express monorail first (total ~€20–€30).