I will be driving through northern Italy and would like to stay in Venice for two nights. Someone mentioned staying off the island and leaving the car at the hotel and taking water taxis to Venice during the day and evening. Anyone have a suggestion? Else, I hear there is a car park on the mainland I could leave the rental car for two nights. I need a hotel in the $150 range.

At Venice, the freeway ends in many directions. Follow the green lights directing you to a parking lot with space. This is Tronchetto (across the causeway and to the right) with a huge garage for about 15$ a day. Use the cheap vaporetto ride for boat connection #82 (town center). Also parking in Mestre, across from the train station is cheaper but are open air lots.

Part of the charm of Venice is staying in the city and walking the streets after all the day trippers depart. I would highly recommend parking at the Tronchetto and staying in the city proper. Some hotels give discount coupons for parking there. Ask.<BR><BR>We stayed at the Al Gambero on Calle dei Fabbri in 99. Great location and recently remodeled rooms and baths. Around $100 per night at that time.

Hi Mary. I'd highly recommend staying in Venice itself -- which you can certainly afford to do, at $150/night -- rather than staying on the mainland.

Thanks for the advice. I think I will park at the Tronchetto. I don't suppose you booked th Al Gambero on Calle dei Fabbri on-line???<BR><BR>- Mary Rose

Related question - have heard the parking lots are often full in July and <BR>August and the causeway can take hours to cross due to bumber to bumber traffic and that therefore parking in Mestre and taking the train is the best solution (assuming you are staying in Venice itself). What do you think?

In reply to booking at the Locanda Gambero, why dont you fax them your info? FAX 041-520-0431. They speak english and will reply quickly if there is a room availible. FYI, Gambero runs the wonderful art-deco "La Bistrot" on the corner, which serves old-time Venetian cuisine. Hav a great trip!