Summary
One of the top Venice day trips for tourists is a visit to one or more of the islands in the Venetian lagoon. This guide explores the must-visit islands in Venice, including how to reach them.
Murano Island
Murano Island, renowned for its glass-making, stands as the most popular Venetian island among tourists. Historically, glassmakers were mandated to live on the island to safeguard their glass-making secrets. Today, the tradition persists, and visitors can explore the glass museum to learn more.
Several glass factories offer tours, and numerous shops sell exquisite glass creations and souvenirs. Moreover, Murano features charming canals, sidewalk cafes, and delightful restaurants.
- Getting There: From Fondamenta Nove, take Vaporetto Number 12, 13, 41, or 42 to Murano. For guided tours to the island, inquire at your hotel or the tourist office.
- Places to Stay: Hotel Al Soffiador | Murano Palace B&B
Burano Island
Burano Island is known for its picturesque canals lined with vibrant houses. Visitors can enjoy various excellent restaurants that serve risotto and exceptionally fresh fish. Famous for its artisan lace, many shops offer lace products (ensure they are handmade and not mass-produced) and visitors can explore the Lace Museum to understand the intricate tradition of lace-making. Interestingly, Burano features a leaning tower on one of its churches.
- Getting There: From Fondamenta Nove, take Vaporetto Line 12 to Burano.
Torcello Island
Torcello presents a tranquil retreat with its lush green landscapes, much of which is designated as a nature reserve. Visitors can admire the 7th-century Cathedral of Santa Maria Dell’Assunta, which boasts stunning 11th and 12th-century Byzantine mosaics. Torcello is an ideal spot for those seeking to escape the crowds for a leisurely stroll, a peaceful lunch, or even a night’s stay at the legendary Locanda Cipriani.
- Getting There: From Fondamenta Nove, take Vaporetto Line 12 to Burano, then transfer to Line 9.
San Michelle Island
San Michelle serves as Venice’s cemetery island. The beautifully landscaped grounds feature two churches and numerous tombs, including notable figures like Ezra Pound in the Protestant section and Sergei Diaghilev and Igor Stravinsky in the Orthodox section.
This island can be a fascinating place to explore, making it a convenient stop on the way to Murano. However, do note that it mainly functions as a cemetery and offers no tourist services.
- Getting There: From Fondamenta Nove, take Vaporetto Number 41 or 42 (which also goes to Murano) to the Cimitero stop, typically the first stop.
Sant’Erasmo Island
Sant’Erasmo holds the title of the largest island in the Venetian lagoon and primarily serves as an agricultural area, sometimes referred to as the Garden of Venice. While there are no significant tourist attractions, a restored 19th-century fort is located near the Capannone stop, and a quaint church can be found by the Chiesa stop.
- Getting There: From Fondamenta Nove, take Vaporetto Number 13. The island has three stops – Capannone, Chiesa, and Punta Vela.
Lazzaretto Nuovo
Lazzaretto Nuovo was once a quarantine zone during the plague; though it isn’t open to the public, it can be accessed through special guided tours conducted from April to October.
Murano, Burano and Torcello Half-Day Sightseeing Tour
This 4.5-hour tour offers visitors the chance to explore Torcello, Murano, and Burano via motorboat. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, travelers will observe glass blowing at a Murano glass factory, enjoy the grandeur of cathedrals on Torcello, and have the opportunity to see exquisite handmade lace on Burano.
Venice Activities and Guided Tours
Beyond traditional tours of the city’s iconic sights, visitors can indulge in tasting Cicchetti, participate in cooking classes, learn how to row a gondola, or even craft a mask.
