The Venice Lagoon (or Venetian Lagoon) is a breathtaking natural wonder that cradles the city and its surrounding islands, creating one of the most unique ecosystems in the world. This shallow body of water spans approximately 550 square kilometres and has shaped Venice’s history for centuries. From the bustling central islands to the peaceful, lesser-known corners, the lagoon Venice Italy offers travellers a chance to experience Venice beyond the typical tourist spots.
Let’s explore what makes the Venice Lagoon so special and how you can make the most of your time exploring it.
Apartments with gran canal view in Venice
Best Things to Do in Venice Lagoon
The Venice Lagoon offers a wealth of experiences that cater to every type of traveller. Here are some of the most rewarding activities to enjoy during your visit:
Island Hopping
One of the greatest joys of exploring the lagoon Venice Italy is visiting its constellation of islands. While Murano is famous for its glass-making traditions and colourful buildings (learn more about Murano Venice), don’t miss the chance to explore Burano with its brightly painted houses and lace-making heritage. For a quieter experience, head to Mazzorbo, connected to Burano by a wooden bridge, where you’ll find vineyards, orchards, peaceful walking paths, and some delicious food.
Boat Tours
Seeing the lagoon from the water offers a perspective you simply can’t get any other way. Consider taking a traditional wooden boat (bragozzo) tour with a local guide who can share insights about the lagoon’s ecology and history. These smaller vessels can navigate the shallow waters and narrow canals that larger boats can’t access, giving you a more intimate experience of the Venetian Lagoon.
Birdwatching
The Venice Lagoon is a haven for wildlife, particularly birds. The Valle Averto nature reserve is part of the lagoon and serves as an important habitat for numerous bird species. Bring binoculars and look out for flamingos, herons, and many other water birds that call this area home.
Fishing and Clam Digging
For a truly authentic experience, join a local fisherman for a day out on the lagoon. You’ll learn traditional fishing techniques and gain insight into how the lagoon has sustained Venetians for centuries. The lagoon is particularly known for its molluscs, especially the prized vongole (clams) that feature prominently in Venetian cuisine.
Sunset Viewing
There’s nothing quite like watching the sun set over the Venice lagoon. Popular spots include the eastern side of Giudecca or the northern shore of Lido. For spectacular views of the sunset with Saint Mark’s Basilica, Punta della Dogana and San Giorgio Maggiore, head to the Riva dei sette Martiri walkway.
How to Visit the Venice Lagoon
There are numerous ways to visit the Venetian Lagoon, depending on your budget and the amount of time you have.
The vaporetto (water bus) system is the backbone of Venice’s public transport and the most cost-effective way of getting around. Line 12 is particularly useful for island hopping in the northern lagoon, connecting Venice with Murano, Burano and Torcello. For a comprehensive understanding of how to get around, check out our city map of Venice guide.
For more flexibility and comfort, consider hiring a private water taxi. While more expensive than public transport, they offer direct routes and can access areas that vaporetti can’t reach.
Numerous companies offer guided tours of the lagoon Venice Italy, ranging from large group excursions to private customised experiences. These can be particularly valuable if you’re interested in learning about the lagoon’s ecology, history. and cultural significance. Learn more about bespoke experiences in Venice.
It’s worth mentioning that the lagoon experience varies dramatically with the seasons. Summer offers warm weather but crowds, while winter provides a more authentic glimpse into local life. For detailed advice on when to plan your trip, read our best time to visit Venice article.
Attractions Around Venice Lagoon
Beyond the famous central islands, the Venice lagoon is dotted with fascinating places to see that offer glimpses into the region’s rich history and culture:
San Giorgio Maggiore
This island, dominated by its magnificent church designed by Palladio, offers one of the best panoramic views of Venice from its bell tower. The island also houses the Giorgio Cini Foundation, a cultural centre with beautiful gardens.
Lazzaretto Nuovo
Once a quarantine station during plague outbreaks, this island now serves as an archaeological site and museum. Guided tours reveal fascinating insights into Venice’s public health measures throughout history.
Sant’Erasmo
Known as “Venice’s garden,” this large island supplies much of the city’s fresh produce. Rent a bicycle to explore its rural landscapes, vineyards and artichoke farms—a stark contrast to the urban density of central Venice.
The Northern Lagoon
The areas around Lio Piccolo and Treporti contain fishing valleys, salt marshes and channels that have remained largely unchanged for centuries. This region is perfect for nature lovers and those seeking to understand the delicate ecosystem of the Venice lagoon.
Fortifications
The lagoon is home to numerous historic fortifications, including the octagonal Forte di Sant’Andrea and the imposing Forte Marghera. These structures tell the story of Venice’s military history and its strategic importance as a maritime power.
For a more comprehensive list of must-see locations, check out our guides to top places to visit in Venice and Venice islands.
The Venice Lagoon is a Must-See
Exploring the Venice Lagoon reveals the delicate balance between nature and human creativity that has shaped this extraordinary city. No matter how long you’re planning to visit, a trip around the Venice Lagoon is definitely worth including on your itinerary.
Now, all that’s left is to find the perfect accommodation. At Dimora Italia, we offer luxurious rental properties that combine heritage and modern comfort, allowing you to immerse yourself fully in the Venetian experience. Our carefully selected properties provide the ideal starting point for your lagoon adventures, whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family holiday, or even a Venice wedding.
Browse our collection of exceptional properties and start planning your journey to the Venice lagoon today.
