Beyond Venice’s iconic canals, bridges and squares lies a captivating archipelago waiting to be explored. In this blog, we’ll take you on a journey through five remarkable Venice islands, each with its own unique charm and story. From the colourful houses of Burano to the glassmaking wonders of Murano, the sun-soaked beaches of Lido, the mysterious Poveglia, and the artistic Giudecca, we’ll uncover the diverse tapestry of Venice’s island landscape.
Venice Islands to Visit
During your trip to Venice, we highly recommend setting aside some time to visit at least four of these five Venice islands. Why not all? Well, let’s just say it’ll all become clearer very soon.
Murano Island, Venice, Italy
Murano, known as the “glass island of Venice,” is a charming cluster of seven islands connected by bridges. Famous for its centuries-old glassmaking tradition, Murano offers its visitors a combination of art, history, and picturesque scenery. The island’s colourful houses and quiet canals create a calming atmosphere, perfect for leisurely strolls.
Murano’s glassmaking heritage dates back to the 13th century when Venetian glassmakers were relocated to the island to prevent fires in Venice. Today, visitors can watch master craftsmen create intricate glass pieces in workshops and visit the Glass Museum to learn about the island’s rich history.
Key attractions include the Church of Santa Maria e San Donato, known for its 12th-century Byzantine mosaic pavement, and the Church of San Pietro Martire, which houses artworks by Giovanni Bellini. The well-preserved gothic Palazzo da Mula is another significant historic building worth visiting.
Check out our in-depth guide to Murano, Venice.
Burano Island, Venice, Italy
Burano is a vibrant, technicolour masterpiece in the Venetian Lagoon, famous for its brightly coloured houses and lace-making tradition. This small island, with a population of just 2,800, offers a small-town atmosphere and is easily walkable in about 10 minutes.
The island’s colourful houses, painted in various shades of the rainbow, make it the perfect place for an Insta-worthy post. Legend has it that the bright colours helped fishermen identify their homes through the fog.
Burano’s lace-making heritage dates back to the 16th century, and visitors can still watch traditional lacemakers at work in local workshops. The island is also known for its culinary traditions, particularly the “Bussolai” biscuits—irresistible Venetian butter biscuits.
Key attractions include the Church of San Martino with its leaning bell tower, and the Baldassarre Galuppi Square, which forms the heart of the island.
Lido Island, Venice, Italy
The Lido is a tranquil retreat from the bustling crowds of central Venice, known for its beautiful beaches and the prestigious Venice Film Festival. This residential island offers a more relaxed atmosphere and is particularly enjoyable during the summer months.
Visitors can enjoy activities such as sunbathing on the beaches, renting bicycles to explore the island, and visiting local markets. The Lido is also home to several excellent restaurants and bars, offering a chance to savor delicious local cuisine.
For a perfect day on the Lido, pack your beach essentials and spend the morning relaxing by the sea. In the afternoon, explore the island’s charming streets and enjoy a meal at one of the local eateries. The Osteria al Merca is probably the best traditional fish restaurant in Lido.
More more restaurant ideas, read our dedicated blog on the 5 Best Osterie in Venice.
Poveglia Island, Venice, Italy
Poveglia Island, often referred to as the “island of no return,” has a dark and haunting history. Located off the coast of Venice, this small island served as a quarantine station and dumping ground for plague victims during several outbreaks of the bubonic plague.
It’s estimated that around 160,000 people met their end on Poveglia, with bodies being thrown into large bonfires or pits. In the 1920s, the island was repurposed as a mental hospital, adding another layer to its grim past.
Today, Poveglia stands abandoned and is not open to the public. However, its eerie history and legends of hauntings have made it a subject of fascination for many. While you can’t visit the island itself, you can see it from a distance on boat tours around the Venetian Lagoon.
Giudecca Island, Venice, Italy
Giudecca is a long, crescent-shaped island facing Venice’s historic centre across the Giudecca Canal. Once an industrial area, it has transformed into a peaceful residential neighbourhood with a mix of modern and historic architecture.
The island offers stunning views of Venice and is home to several notable landmarks. The Church of Il Redentore, designed by Andrea Palladio, is a Renaissance masterpiece and the focal point of the annual Festa del Redentore celebration. The Molino Stucky, a former flour mill turned luxury hotel, is another architectural highlight.
Giudecca provides visitors with another tranquil escape from the tourist crowds of central Venice. Its waterfront promenade, lined with restaurants and bars, is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a romantic dinner with views of St. Mark’s Square across the water. The island also houses several art galleries and studios, reflecting its growing reputation as a hub for contemporary art.
Experience the Venice Islands for Yourself
As we wrap up our tour of Venice’s islands, it’s clear that each offers a unique slice of Venetian life beyond the city’s famous sights. From Murano’s glassworks to Burano’s colourful houses, Lido’s beaches to Giudecca’s art scene, these islands reveal the authentic charm of Venice.
To fully experience Venice and its islands, why not extend your stay? Dimora Italia offers a range of accommodations that capture true Venetian hospitality. From cosy apartments to elegant villas, find your perfect base for island-hopping adventures. Book with Dimora Italia today and start packing your bags!
