The islands of Venice
If you look at a map of Venice, you can see it’s not a single island. The island of Venice is built on 118 tiny islands connected by bridges, but the larger Venitian lagoon contains hundreds more. Each island has unique history and identity.
You can easily access these surrounding islands by ferry, vaporetto, or boat tour, and many of them are well worth exploring. You will discover candy-colored fisherman homes, secret vineyards, pristine beaches, and picturesque cemeteries.
Here is a list of the most beautiful islands of Venice for you to explore.
Murano
Start with Murano island which closest to Venice. Murano is known for glassmaking. In the Venetian Republic, glass was produced in Venice. Later, the production was relocated to Murano.
Murano was the main producer of glass in Europe during the Middle Ages. Today, the island continues to produce ornate chandeliers, contemporary art, and household objects.
There are guided tours you can take where you can learn about the history of glassblowing and see masters of the craft at work.
Burano
If you love taking beautiful pictures, this island is a must see! Burano is a photographer’s paradise and the true epitome of Italian charm.
Legend has it that the houses in Burano were painted such bright colours so the fisherman could see the island more vividly. The colours of the buildings follow a specific set of rules and if someone wants to paint their house here, they actually have to submit a request to the government.
Burano is also well-known for its lacemaking traditions, which originated in the 16th century.
Lido
If you love films, visit the home of the famous Venice International Film Festival. You can also enjoy a long sandy beach that protects Venice from the Adriatic Sea. The entire Lido island is 12 kilometres long and two kilometres wide.
Book a private tour offered by The Relais Alberti Hotel. A historic yacht will take you through the lagoon and you can visit the Ancient Jewish Cemetery.
Mazzorbo
While in Burano, cross a wooden footbridge and explore Mazzorbo. This is a tiny island with a real treasure. Here you can visit the Venissa Wine Resort and one of a handful of Venice’s secret vineyards. Venissa grows the famous Dorona golden grape once enjoyed by the Venetian Doges during their banquets.
Torcello
Last, but not list, visit the island of Torcello which was once part of Native Venice, along with Burano and Mazzorbo. Even though a very small island, it’s still worth the trip.
The island was home to a cathedral and Venice’s bishops for over 1,000 years until St. Mark’s Basilica was built. Hence, the main attraction you’ll see is the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, founded in 639. It has impressive 12th century Byzantine mosaics depicting the Last Judgment.
Have you visited any of the islands of Venice? Which is your favourite?
