Port of Lido, Maritime gateway in Lido Island, Italy

The Port of Lido is a harbor facility serving the island of Lido near Venice and connecting the city to the sea. It is divided into several zones that serve different purposes and accommodate vessels of various sizes for both commercial and passenger traffic.

The harbor developed in the Middle Ages when Venice expanded its maritime control and established Lido as an important port. Later, the structures were modernized to keep pace with growing ship traffic and expand port capacity.

The port takes its name from the nearby church of San Nicolò, which holds the relics of the patron saint of sailors. In the waters facing the church, the traditional Sposalizio del Mare ceremony was held during the Festa della Sensa. The harbour was watched over by a service of fast boats under the Admiral of the Lido.

The inlet lies between Punta Sabbioni and the Lido island, north of the Malamocco and Chioggia entrances. It is the main passenger and ferry access to the port of Venice, so expect working traffic rather than a promenade. Two long breakwater jetties protect it, and MOSE works are adding a third sea barrier, an artificial island and a side basin.

The name comes from the nearby church of San Nicolò, which holds the relics of the patron saint of sailors. In front of that church, during the Festa della Sensa, Venice held the traditional Sposalizio del Mare ceremony. The harbour was watched by a squadron of fuste under an Admiral of the Lido.