In recent years, Venice has introduced a number of policies to address their overtourism crisis. However, May 2018 saw their most stringent set of rules yet come into effect, clamping down on public nuisances like illegal street vendors, loitering, and walking around bare-chested in the city center.
Interestingly, these might seem commonsensical, but a number of fines have already been issued, including one to a pair of German tourists who saw no problem with setting up a portable stove and making themselves a cup of coffee on the steps of the Rialto bridge.
We support initiatives that prioritize local communities and protect ecosystems. However, we also understand why some travelers might view these protocols with trepidation. Therefore, learn to navigate the new rules with our guide to eight alternative Venetian islands that allow visitors to enjoy the city while adhering to these regulations.
“Don’t affix love locks to bridges or railings”… visit Burano instead
The ‘no Love Locks’ rule will be familiar to seasoned travelers; these rust-inducing, amorous tokens have long been banned from numerous cities after they caused severe structural damage to the iconic Ponts des Arts bridge in Paris. Consequently, rather than deface the city, enamour yourself instead with the island of Burano.
Burano is renowned for its Bussolai Burani (s-shaped, butter biscuits) and its crayon-colored streets, where houses are painted in striking hues of tangerine orange, hot pink, and cerulean blue. Moreover, its most romantic export has to be its handmade lace, once coveted by aristocracy across the continent. Stop by the Museo del Merletto (Lace Museum) for an intricately-spun history, and visit Merletti d’arte Martina to secure a luxurious, lacey souvenir for your beau.
How to get there: 50-minute vaporetto from Fondamente Nuove, line 12.
“No swimming in the canals”… visit Certosa instead
Venice’s canals are working waterways, and swimming here is not only considered poor etiquette but is also highly dangerous. For an aquatic fix, we recommend Isola della Certosa. Once the site of a grand Carthusian Monastery, these days the island is known for its marina, natural surrounds, and watersports.
Here you’ll find the headquarters of Venice Kayak, an amazing little outfit that offers kayaking tours of the canals. Paddle through grand avenues of historic buildings, deftly navigate tight bends, and wedge yourself under impossibly low bridges for a completely new perspective of the city. Additionally, you’ll earn eco-friendly bonus points for utilizing a slow travel, low-impact mode of transport.
How to get there: Lines 7, 4.1, and 4.2 go to Certosa from S. Marco (S. Zaccaria).
“Do not walk around in a bikini or bare-chested”… visit Lido instead
This may be the most “tourist problem” rule we’ve encountered, yet some individuals seem to mistake this water-adjacent city for a sandy beach. We understand you’re in holiday-mode; however, spare a thought for the locals having to navigate through bare-chested tourists on their way to work. The solution to this clothing quandary lies on the island of Lido.
This slender sandbar is home to three free public beaches where swimwear is encouraged. Despite its retro feel, modern sustainability initiatives underpin this island, which received a Blue Flag eco-accreditation in 2012. The main street bustles with charming cafes and cocktail bars, and bike rentals are available near the vaporetto stop. Visit in late-August or early-September to coincide your stay with the Venice Film Festival, which is hosted here annually.
How to get there: Take vaporetto lines 1, N, 5.1, 5.2, or 14 from San Marco (S Zaccaria) to Lido.
“Do not buy goods from illegal street vendors”… visit Murano instead
With its dreamy canals and Gothic architecture, Venice exudes an artisanal charm that’s begging to be captured in magnetized form on your fridge at home. However, resist the urge to grab “any old thing” from the first street vendor you encounter—real treasure requires a quest. In this case, that quest leads to the birthplace of the world-renowned Murano glass.
Glass production was moved to Murano in the 13th century when it was determined that the fire hazard posed by glassblowing was too great in the densely-packed wooden houses of Venice. Murano glass became so highly coveted that it was once considered treason for any glass worker to leave the island. Fornace (Furnace) signs along the Fondamenta dei Vetrai mark the island’s prestigious workshops. Look for the “Vetro Murano Artistico” trademark to ensure you’re purchasing only the finest products.
How to get there: A 20/30-minute vaporetto ride from Fondamente Nuove. Take line 12 or 13 to Murano or line 4.1 or 4.2 to Murano Museo.
“Don’t cycle or walk your bicycle in the city centre”… visit San Giorgio Maggiore
Venice is ancient, with history dating back to AD 400, making the presence of wheeled transport (be it suitcase, skateboard, bicycle, or otherwise) potentially damaging. Preserve the streets by avoiding crowded areas like Piazza San Marco, where tourists flock for the notable Basilica and bell tower. Alternatively, experience the next best thing without the crowds on San Giorgio Maggiore.
The island’s Palladian church has long inspired remarkable artists, including Monet. Moreover, its main attraction is the 60-meter bell tower, which provides unrivaled views across Piazza San Marco and Doge’s Palace, along with an iconic vantage point over the Grand Canal.
How to get there: Take line 2 or N from S. Marco (S. Zaccaria) to S. Giorgio.
“Do not stand still on bridges or obstruct storefronts or passageways”… visit Giudecca instead
The Venetian Lagoon covers approximately 500 square meters, hosting around 20 million tourists each year. This influx results in severe overcrowding, especially during peak months. Therefore, if the essence of Venice’s new rules is to foster mutual respect between visitors and locals, what better way to show your appreciation than by experiencing the city authentically during your stay?
Often-overlooked Giudecca offers a unique, grittier aspect of the city. Invest your travel funds back into the community by purchasing fresh produce and souvenirs from the women’s prison market, which operates every Thursday morning. Explore the eclectic Giudecca 795 art gallery and indulge your taste buds at the waterfront diners—ramshackle kiosks often serve some of the most delicious pizza you will ever taste.
How to get there: From S. Marco (S. Zaccaria), take lines 2, N, 4.1, or 4.2 to Zitelle or Redentore.
“No picnicking”… visit Sant’Erasmo instead
Even the most adventurous traveler might have a hard time justifying the actions of our two German friends craving a hot beverage; however, they aren’t the first to confuse the city streets for a campsite. For those itching to whip out a picnic blanket, head to the market garden island of Sant’Erasmo in the northeast of Venice.
Enjoy scenic walking trails that lead you past farms, allotments, and plantations, explore the 19th-century ruins, and sample the island’s renowned export, the famous purple artichoke. If time is of the essence, many of the island’s products are also available at the inner-city Rialto Market.
How to get there: Take lines N or 13 from F. Nuove and disembark at Capannone or Forte Massimili.
“Don’t feed the pigeons”… visit Torcello instead
We believe that all animals are equal; however, feeding pigeons can harm delicate ecosystems. Not only do they contribute to visual and auditory pollution, but their droppings can erode surfaces over time. If it’s nature you’re after, you can discover far better alternatives than a flock of greedy pigeons.
Venice’s lagoon is home to several hundred bird species, with the most eye-catching found on tranquil Torcello, where sheep outnumber residents. Every winter, large flocks of flamingos migrate here to feed. Visit during February or March for the best chance to witness them en masse; keep your cameras ready for the ultimate snapshot—a group of rose-pink residents soaring over the city skyline.
How to get there: One-hour vaporetto ride from F. Nuove on line N or hop over from neighboring Burano on line 9.
