While Venice is a magical destination, its surroundings offer just as much wonder. A short ride across the Venetian Lagoon brings you to islands rich in history, art, and culture, each offering its unique charm. If you want to enrich your Venetian adventure without straying too far, here are three fantastic day trip ideas that will add depth to your Italian getaway!
Day Trips from Venice, Italy: Discover the Hidden Gems of the Venetian Lagoon
Burano Island: A Painter’s Palette of Color and Culture
Just a 40-minute Vaporetto (water bus) ride from Venice, Burano is an island that feels like stepping into a painting. Famous for its vibrantly colored houses, this picturesque island was initially painted in bright hues so fishermen could quickly identify their homes through the thick lagoon fog. Today, Burano is a photographer’s paradise, with every street a kaleidoscope of color.
But Burano isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s also renowned for its lace-making tradition. A visit to the Museo del Merletto (Lace Museum) is a must to learn about the island’s lace-making heritage, a craft passed down through generations. Intricate lace from Burano has been sought after across Europe for centuries, and the museum offers insight into the skill and artistry behind this delicate craft.
No trip to Burano is complete without indulging in the island’s culinary delights. Head to one of the local trattorias and try the risotto de go, a traditional Venetian dish made with goby fish. It’s a true local specialty and a testament to the island’s fishing heritage. Pair it with a glass of local wine for the whole Burano experience.
How to get there: Take the Vaporetto line 12 from Venice’s Fondamenta Nuove stop. The journey takes about 40 minutes, and boats run regularly throughout the day.
Pro tip: Leave Venice early to avoid being squeezed onto the ferry with everyone headed to the islands for the day! I left at 10 AM, and it was too late, we were packed like sardines. |
Sant’Erasmo Island: Venice’s Countryside Retreat
For a serene, rural escape, take a ferry from Burano to the tranquil island of Sant’Erasmo. Known as the “vegetable garden of Venice,” Sant’Erasmo is where much of Venice’s fresh produce is grown, supplying the city’s markets and restaurants. Despite its importance, the island remains largely off the tourist trail, making it a peaceful retreat from Venice’s bustling streets.
Renting a bike at Hotel Il Lato Azzurro is one of the best ways to explore the island’s lush farmland, vineyards, and orchards. Cycling through the fields of artichokes and asparagus provides a refreshing contrast to the city, offering a glimpse into the agricultural life that sustains Venice. Just across from the hotel is a waterfront pizza cart with amazing pizza, a perfect post-ride treat!
Be sure to stop by the Orti Winery, where you can sample local Venetian wines while enjoying views of the island’s serene landscape. This vineyard is known for its artisanal approach to winemaking, with grapes grown in the island’s fertile soil. A tasting here is the perfect way to spend a leisurely afternoon surrounded by nature.
How to get there: Sant’Erasmo can be reached by ferry from Burano or Venice’s Fondamenta Nuove. The ferry ride takes about 30 minutes.
Murano Island: The Island of Glass Artisans
A short 10-minute Vaporetto ride from Venice, Murano is world-famous for its glassmaking tradition, which dates back to the late 13th century when glassmakers were moved from Venice to Murano to reduce the risk of fires. Today, Murano remains a hub of creativity and craftsmanship, with glassblowers turning molten glass into delicate works of art.
Observing a glassblower at work is a truly captivating experience. Many of Murano’s glass factories offer demonstrations, where you can witness master artisans shape and mold glass into intricate vases, sculptures, and chandeliers. It’s enthralling to see the process—from blowing the glass to the final details that make each piece unique.
To delve deeper into the history of this craft, visit the Museo del Vetro (Glass Museum), housed in a former palace, to explore Murano’s rich history of glass production. You’ll find exhibits that trace the evolution of glassmaking, from ancient Roman techniques to the contemporary art forms seen today.
Murano is also home to several beautiful churches, such as San Pietro Martire and the Basilica di Santa Maria e San Donato. The latter features a stunning mosaic floor and Byzantine mosaics dating back to the 12th century.
How to get there: Vaporetto line 4.1 or 4.2 from Venice takes about 10 minutes to Murano.
Tips for Planning Your Day Trips
Travel Pass: If you plan to visit multiple islands, consider purchasing a day pass for the Vaporetto, which gives you unlimited rides across Venice and the lagoon islands. It’s cost-effective and saves time when hopping from one island to another.
Timing: Start your day early to make the most of your trips. While each island can be explored in a few hours, leaving in the morning gives you plenty of time to enjoy the slower pace of island life.
What to Pack: Bring comfortable shoes for walking and a light jacket—Venice’s lagoon islands can be windy, even on sunny days. Don’t forget your camera to capture the colorful streets of Burano and the craftsmanship of Murano’s glassblowers!
Conclusion: The Magic Beyond Venice
While Venice itself is a masterpiece of history and architecture, the surrounding islands offer a different side of Venetian life—one filled with color, craftsmanship, and agriculture. Whether you’re marveling at the vibrant homes of Burano, biking through the peaceful fields of Sant’Erasmo, or watching the magic of glassmaking in Murano, these day trips provide a deeper understanding of the Venetian Lagoon.
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