Entrance of Porto Marghera train station with train and tracks

Venezia Porto Marghera Railway Station

Venezia Porto Marghera Railway Station: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Venezia Porto Marghera Railway Station is where Venice’s celebrated history meets its modern industrial might. Situated at the intersection of the city’s storied maritime traditions and the vast Porto Marghera industrial complex, the station serves as a key gateway between the Venetian lagoon and mainland Italy. Opened in the 1840s to support both passenger and freight movement, it remains a vital hub for regional transport and a fascinating starting point for visitors eager to explore Venice’s lesser-known industrial heritage. This detailed guide covers the station’s history, facilities, accessibility, ticketing, connections, and travel tips—ideal for commuters, tourists, and history enthusiasts alike.

For real-time schedules and ticket purchases, official resources such as Trenitalia, the Port of Venice, and the North Adriatic Sea Port Authority are recommended.

Entrance to the Libertà Viaduct in Venice with road traffic

Train station entrance at Venezia Porto Marghera with ticket barriers and travelers

Venice Porto Marghera train station exterior with sign and tracks

Porto Marghera industrial port and facilities

View of Venezia Porto Marghera train station with busy platforms and tracks

Port of Marghera in Venice with cranes and shipping containers

Porto Marghera train station underpass in Italy with directional signs

Stazione di Porto Marghera railway station platform with tracks and overhead wires

View of Stazione di Porto Marghera train station with tracks and platform under a clear sky

View of V.M. Porto Margera building at sunset with clear sky

Aerial view of Porto Marghera industrial area near Venice Italy with docks factories and waterways

Porto Marghera industrial port area in Venice with cranes and water

Aerial view of Venezia Porto Marghera industrial port area with waterways and docks

Aerial view of Venezia Porto Marghera industrial port with docks, cranes, and shipping containers

Aerial view of Venezia Porto Marghera industrial port area with cranes and warehouses

Aerial view of Porto Marghera industrial port area with waterways and infrastructure in Venice

Aerial view of Venezia Porto Marghera industrial port with ships and cranes

Aerial view of Venezia Porto Marghera industrial port with water channels and warehouses

Porto Marghera industrial zone in Venice with factories and chimneys

Aerial view of Venezia Porto Marghera industrial port with docks, cranes, and warehouses

Venezia Porto Marghera train station with trains and tracks

Venezia Porto Marghera railway station platform and tracks

Porto Marghera railway underpass in Venice with modern lighting and metallic railings

Porto Marghera train station platform with tracks under a clear sky

Introduction
History and Development
- Early Railway Origins
- Industrial Expansion and Porto Marghera
Station Layout and Facilities
- Track and Platform Configuration
- Amenities and Services
Visiting Hours and Ticketing
Accessibility and Safety
Connectivity and Transport Links
- Rail, Bus, and Local Transit
- Cycling, Walking, and Taxi Access
Nearby Attractions and Guided Tours
Practical Travel Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary and Final Tips
References

History and Development

Early Railway Origins

The Venezia Porto Marghera station traces its roots to December 13, 1842, soon after the opening of the Marghera–Padua segment of the historic Strada Ferrata Ferdinandea railway. Initially, the station was situated at San Giuliano, but with the completion of the lagoon-spanning bridge in 1846, direct rail access to Venice was achieved, paving the way for the area’s transformation into a major industrial hub (Wikipedia).

Industrial Expansion and Porto Marghera

Rising demand for industrial and maritime transport in the early 20th century led to the development of Porto Marghera, beginning in 1920. This vast complex soon featured port facilities, oil terminals, chemical factories, and housing for workers, quickly becoming one of Europe’s largest and most strategic industrial zones. By 1970, Porto Marghera employed over 35,000 people and played a major role in Italy’s economic growth (Port of Venice).

Station Layout and Facilities

Track and Platform Configuration

Tracks: The station features four passenger tracks, accessible by a pedestrian underpass for safe movement between platforms.
Entrances: There are multiple pedestrian access points, including Via Paganello and Via della Libertà, the main artery connecting Mestre and Venice (Wikipedia; RFI).
Surroundings: The station is set in an industrial landscape, with freight operations separated from passenger services (Port of Venice).

Amenities and Services

Ticket Machines: Self-service ticket machines are available during station hours.
Waiting Areas: Renovated shelters and a small café/bar offer basic comfort.
Restrooms: Facilities are located near the bar/café (Rome2Rio).
Information Systems: Visual and audio announcements provide real-time updates (RFI).
Luggage Storage: Not available on site; use Venezia Mestre or Santa Lucia for this service.

Visiting Hours and Ticketing

Opening Times

Station Hours: Open from early morning to late evening, matching regional train schedules.
Ticket Machines: Available during all operational hours.
Staffed Offices: There are no staffed ticket offices at Porto Marghera; use nearby major stations for in-person service (European Rail Guide).

Ticket Purchase Options

Onsite: Self-service ticket machines.
Online: Trenitalia and mobile apps.
Nearby Stations: Staffed counters at Venezia Mestre or Santa Lucia.

Tip: For peak travel times or special connections, book tickets online in advance.

Train Schedules and Frequency

Regional Trains: Frequent daily service between Mestre, Venice, and other regional destinations.
First and Last Trains: Typically from 5:13 AM to 12:47 AM, with night buses covering late hours (Trainline; Moovit).

Accessibility and Safety

Physical Accessibility

Elevators and Ramps: Renovated underpass, lifts, and tactile paving aid passengers with reduced mobility.
No Dedicated Assistance: As of July 2025, there is no specialized staff for assistance; for full services, use Venezia Mestre or Santa Lucia (RFI).

Information Accessibility

Visual/Audio Systems: For real-time updates and train information.
Self-Service Only: Absence of on-site staff means independent navigation is necessary.

Security Considerations

General Safety: The station is considered safe, though due vigilance is recommended in early morning or late night hours (Rome2Rio).

Connectivity and Transport Links

Rail, Bus, and Local Transit

Direct Trains: To Venezia Santa Lucia (6–7 minutes), Mestre, and regional destinations (Rome2Rio).
Bus Services: Multiple ACTV bus lines serve the station, connecting to Mestre, Marghera, and Piazzale Roma (Moovit).
Night Buses: N2 and 80 lines provide overnight connectivity.

Cycling, Walking, and Taxi Access

Cycling: Dedicated bike paths and bike-sharing options are available.
Walking: An 11–12 minute walk links Porto Marghera to Venezia Mestre.
Taxis: Not permitted inside the port area; shuttle buses serve cruise passengers (Mediterranean Cruise Ports Easy).
Parking: Limited short-term parking; long-term options are not available.

Nearby Attractions and Guided Tours

Vega Technology Park: Innovation hub adjacent to the industrial zone.
Port of Venice Museum: Offers insights into Venice’s maritime and industrial evolution.
Guided Tours: Occasional tours and exhibitions provide rare access to industrial areas (check Port of Venice for updates).

Photography: The station and nearby areas offer unique industrial vistas and lagoon panoramas.

Practical Travel Tips

Purchase tickets online or via machines to avoid queues.
Plan connections in advance, especially for night or early morning travel.
Use bike-sharing or buses for onward journeys.
Be aware of limited facilities—plan for restroom and food stops at larger stations if needed.
For cruise connections, confirm shuttle bus schedules.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are ticket offices available at the station?
A: No, only self-service ticket machines are available. Use Mestre or Santa Lucia for staffed counters.

Q: Is luggage storage provided?
A: No, use larger stations for this service.

Q: Is the station accessible for disabled passengers?
A: Yes, with lifts and ramps, but no dedicated assistance.

Q: How do I reach Venice’s historic center?
A: Take a direct regional train or ACTV bus to Santa Lucia or Piazzale Roma.

Q: Can I visit the port/industrial area?
A: Generally restricted; look for guided tours or special events for access.

Summary and Final Tips

Venezia Porto Marghera Railway Station is a critical link between Venice’s mainland and its iconic city center, offering efficient transit, essential facilities, and access to both industrial and historical attractions. Its straightforward layout, regular train and bus services, and basic amenities make it suitable for a range of travelers. Advance planning, especially regarding tickets and accessibility needs, ensures a smooth visit. For up-to-date travel information, consult Trenitalia and Port of Venice official sites.