island tours venice italy

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• Venice’s three island tour: immerse yourself in the beauty of the lagoon
• Places and Tours

Discover the city by the lagoon beyond its most famous attractions and enjoy the splendid Venice three island tour with us!

Just as a jigsaw puzzle is made up of hundreds, sometimes thousands, of pieces, so is Venice. Punctuating the Venetian lagoon , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are hundreds of islands : 118 are those on which the center we all know was built, but as many as 62 islands are scattered all around: they offer natural beauty, historical and archaeological relics, engineering masterpieces, and even rich evidence of folklore and tradition, not to mention a rich local gastronomy.

So, to make your experience complete, widen your gaze to the dozens of islands and islets that emerge from the water. Some of them are tiny, little more than patches of land where it is not even possible to dock; others, on the other hand, are splendid ecosystems that have developed a very strong identity , known in every corner of the world. Pastel-colored painted houses, masterpieces of delicate glass, historical relics that harken back to the Roman era...

Embark with us on an unforgettable excursion to discover three islands in the Venice Lagoon! But don't forget that Venice is a city rich in history and art. You can admire all its attractions with the Venice Pass at advantageous prices : discover all the benefits.

Venice island tour: a unique excursion among art, history and traditions

From which islands should you start discovering the lagoon? We certainly suggest three .

A boat tour to the islands of Murano, Burano and Torcello, in fact, will allow you to fully delve into the heart of Venice's history and craft traditions.

The art of glass , with its furnaces and precious art objects, but also the art of lace , with its intangible masterpieces, are kept here, among these islands.

Find out in this article how best to organize a boat excursion to the islands of Venice .

Venice island tour: DIY or guided excursion?

The first question to ask when organizing an excursion to the islands of Venice is undoubtedly this: is a guided tour better than a DIY experience?

The answer is certainly not unique, as it also varies according to one's needs and requirements.

On the one hand, organizing a DIY trip to the islands is certainly feasible. There are many public service steamers connecting the three islands and they operate even on holidays. The advantage of organizing such a trip is the ability to manage time independently and devote more time to what you want. On the other hand, however, the fear of missing the last ferry of the day, of not having checked the boat schedule updates well can make the trip less relaxing .

The advantage of opting for a guided tour , on the other hand, is certainly to discover the three islands without worries . In fact, the organized tour allows you to optimize your time , avoiding long waits for public transportation and benefiting from the knowledge of an experienced guide who will accompany you to discover the most fascinating and hidden places on each island.

The opportunity to immerse yourself in local culture and traditions while listening to stories and trivia told by the guide is undoubtedly the added value of an organized tour.

Which is the itinerary of the boat tour?

What stops should an excursion to Murano, Burano, and Torcello include? What are the places and experiences that cannot be missed?

Let us give you a quick overview of the wonders that await you on this tour.

1. First of all, the island of the glass masters

The first stop on the islands tour is certainly Murano, world-famous for glass production . Not too small in size, the contours of the glass island can be admired with a walk along the Fondamenta Nove.

Here you will have the opportunity to walk among the calli and canals but above all to watch a live demonstration of glassblowing , a moment that will enchant adults and children alike.

2. The island of lace and colorful houses

The second stop is Burano, famous for its colorful houses and centuries-old lace-making tradition .

Here you can stroll through the streets of the center and, with any luck, observe elderly ladies devoted to the art of embroidery. So wonderful is their lace that, in the past, lace-makers from this island were even called to the French court to teach their art.

Finally, as you stroll through the streets of the center and take colorful photographs, don't forget to taste the typical "bussolai" , delicious donut-shaped biscuits!

3. The ancient core of the city

The last stop of the three island tour is the beautiful Torcello, a very small and verdant island . Here, according to legend, the first nucleus of Venice originated.

You can visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, with its splendid Byzantine mosaics, and the Devil's Bridge, one of the few Venetian bridges without a parapet.

If the day is particularly clear and you still have some time before returning to the city, be sure to climb the bell tower to enjoy a breathtaking view of the entire northern part of the Venetian Lagoon.

How to book the Venice boat tour to the three islands?

If you would like to book a guided excursion that will take you to visit the islands in the lagoon, we definitely recommend booking in advance .

You can purchase tickets directly online , choosing your departure date and time. Within seconds, you will receive an electronic voucher with all the instructions you need to follow for boarding.

Don't miss this unique opportunity to visit the beautiful islands of Murano, Burano and Torcello!

We recommend

Island Adventure Boat Tour to Mazzorbo, Burano, and Murano

Hop around the venetian islands to discover glassblowing, colorful houses, and a serene lagoon.

Want to escape the crowds and discover Venice’s diverse and enigmatic islands? This small group tour makes it easy, with an expert local guide to help you navigate the waterways and explore three gems of the Venetian Lagoon. Stroll through cobbled streets and colored houses in Burano, witness glassmaking mastery in Murano, and take in the rich history and peaceful nature of Mazzorbo. If you’re looking to see a different side of Venice, then this is the perfect trip for you!

• Three unique islands in one day
• Discover peaceful Mazzorbo
• Stroll through colorful Burano
• Find your favorite-colored house
• Take those 'Gram-worthy photos
• Explore historic Murano
• See artisan masters at work

This tour operates from April through November, and begins in Campo dei Gesuiti in the Cannaregio district of central Venice. Along with your small group, you’ll hop on the local water bus and take the boat ride to the peaceful island of Mazzorbo, which is home to just a few hundred people.

Next, you’ll head to the incredibly photogenic Burano, an island famed for its authentic feel and brightly colored houses lining narrow streets and canals. They also have some of the best cookies in Venice! Finally, you’ll visit Murano where you’ll enjoy a walking tour and see the island’s famous glassmakers working their trade.

Venice Island Hopping Tour Description

Your 5-hour guided tour includes:

Round-trip transportation by local water bus (tickets not included)

Mazzorbo Island with nature, ancient churches, and vineyards

Burano Island with colored houses, artisan shops, and leaning tower

Murano Island with glassmaking workshops and historic buildings

Engaging English-speaking guide

Maximum group size of 10

Water bus tickets must be purchased locally so please bring some cash.

Meet in the Cannaregio District

Your local guide will be waiting to meet you at a convenient location in Cannaregio. Along with your small group, take a short stroll to the water bus port while hearing about the highlights you’ll visit today and some of Venice’s rich history. Soon enough, you’ll be cruising along the Venetian Lagoon admiring the views!

Home to less than 300 people and one of the most serene islands in the lagoon, your first stop of the day is beautiful Mazzorbo. Your guide will help you explore the island’s lush gardens and peaceful streets, along with the walled Venissa vineyard and one of Venice’s oldest churches: Santa Caterina.

Connected to Mazzorbo by a long wooden bridge, Burano is an idyllic little island that seems from a different time. Colored houses line narrow streets, and washing lines hang between the houses. Burano’s major claim to fame is its centuries-old tradition of lacemaking, and you’ll get to see the artisans in action as you stroll through the charming streets.

It’s not only lace though—Burano produces famous cookies and delicious seafood. Plus you'll see their very own leaning tower!

You’ll hop back onto the water bus for the cruise to Murano. In years past, Murano glassmakers were the only people in Europe who could create a mirror, and their expertise meant they were banned from leaving the city of Venice under threat of execution! Stroll down the pretty Rio dei Vetrai lined with artisan glass workshops, visit the oldest glass factory in the world, and stop by at Murano’s two beautiful churches: San Pietro and San Donato.

The Best Souvenirs in Venice!

Before your guide escorts you back to central Venice, you’ll have time to visit some of the many artisan shops dotted around Murano and Burano. You won’t find many cheap fridge magnets here, just handcrafted wares from some of the most skilled craftspeople in the city. It’s the perfect chance to pick up a truly unique gift for your loved ones back home—or maybe just for yourself!

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Frequently Asked Questions

What to bring?

Wear some comfortable shoes, and bring water, a camera, and some money for the boat and any souvenirs. In the summer, we recommend sunscreen too.

Are water bus tickets included?

No. Water bus tickets must be purchased locally so please bring some cash. These tickets are not expensive and your guide will be there to ensure you get the correct ones for your journey.

Is this tour run by The Tour Guy?

No, it's run by one of our trusted and vetted partners in Venice.

Is this tour available all year?

No, this tour is offered seasonally from April to November on certain days of the week.

Is the boat ride rocky?

The Venice canals are gentle and the boat is large enough that there is minimal rocking on the journey to the other islands. There are a few seats and standing areas on the outer edges of the boat, which is nice for catching a breeze.

Free 24-hr cancellation on group tours! Learn more

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• SAN FRANCESCO DEL DESERTO
• SANT'ERASMO
• LIDO OF VENICE
• CERTOSA ISLAND
• THINGS TO DO IN BURANO
• BURANO LACE
• SAN MARTINO CHURCH
• LEANING BELL TOWER
• VENICE MUSEUMS
• HOW TO GET TO BURANO
• BURANO TOURS
• ACCOMMODATION
• DRIVING AROUND VENICE
• A CRUISE TO VENICE
• MARRIAGES IN VENICE
• REAL ESTATE ADS
• WEATHER IN VENICE
• BEPI'S HOUSE
• BALDASSARE GALUPPI
• PINO DONAGGIO
• BURANO'S PICTURES
• VENETO'S WINES
• BURANO'S REGATTA
• REDENTORE IN VENICE
• CURRENT EVENTS
• BURANO SOCIAL

Burano Italy, a Venice's Island

Welcome to isoladiburano.it the Official Website of Burano in Italy , the colorful island of lace . Home of big artists like Baldassare Galuppi , Remigio Barbaro and Pino Donaggio , as well as inspirer of the Arte Buranella .

Many international magazines include Burano among the top 10 most colorful cities in the world , although it would be more appropriate to bring it within the first 10 most colorful places in the world or between the 10 most colorful locations in the world .

If you're planning to travel to Burano, read our guide on how to visit the island of Burano . Otherwise, keep reading.

The Colours of Burano

All visitors of Burano remain intrigued by the many colours and the colorful houses that are reflected into the green waters of channels, by the leaning bell tower , by the tranquility and the calmness with which the elderly ladies embroider original Burano lace by their tombolo (or lace pillow), while they are laughing and chatting in squares among them. It seems to be in paradise. Children who dart freely with their bicycles, balconies with multicolored flowers, fishermen who put up fresh fish from their traditional boats.

Just gone ashore from actv ferry ( purchasing Burano's water bus tickets ), you will be in a green lawn where a Remigio Barbaro 's solemn sculpture is placed.

Pursuing the shores you will arrive to center of the Island: Galuppi Square ; here neighbourly ladies invite the most curious visitors to come into their shops to admire the lace working .

Although in lacemaking in Burano is the main craftsmanship attraction, enchanting is also the " lume glass working ": a technique born in the nearby island of Murano , but also widespread in the other islands of the Venetian Lagoon . Burano is not an exception to this and it is quite easy to come across some little shops where you can admire this type of Murano glass processing . Real glass factories in miniature, such as the shop located in Fondamenta Giudecca 132, inside a typical and small green house.

If you search for a place to eat like a local , Burano is very famous for its fish dishes , the most famous of which is the " risotto de gò ": the broth in which the rice is cooked and creamed is extracted from the "gò" a fish typical of the Venice lagoon, known in English under the name of " goby ". The dishes of the Burano's cuisine are served in restaurants , who despite being known from the point of view of the quality of the service, in the kitchen maintain the genuineness of a typical old " trattoria buranella " (a Burano's tavern) and where you can still eat delicious fresh fish.

If your time is short, there are anyway several pizzerias or you can opt for a delicious icecream in a bar or a typical Burano's cookie (the most famous are the " Bussolà " and the " Esse ") in a pastry store , enjoying it until the end of Piazza Galuppi where San Martino Bishop's Church is located: inside, in addition to a lot of important works, there is a famous opera of Gian Battista Tiepolo . Sideways is located the Santa Barbara's Chapel.

Always in the same square there is the " Museo del Merletto " (Lace Museum), the Town Hall , a well made of Istria's stone and the Baldassare Galuppi's sculpture made by Remigio Barbaro , the well-known sculptor from Burano.

Sideways the church, some stands offer local souvernirs for a cheap price. Moreover every Wednesday morning not far from the church the street market takes place and two minutes far from the center you can take a look at the fish market, where to see the typical venetian lagoon sea-food.

Among Burano's tiny streets there are a lot of "capitelli" (capitals) placed in the calli entrances and, searching for them, surely you will bump into the most famous and coloured house in the island: " la Casa di Bepi Suà " (the house of Joseph Sweaty), painted with the use of many colors, divided into geometric shapes.

The typical Burano's houses are mainly squared-shaped and are divided into two or three floors. At the low ground there is the kitchen, the breakfast nook and the toilet. At the next floors there are the bedrooms.

The different colours of the houses, which today rappresent the our island main feature, at a previous time was useful to delimit the properties. Notwithstanding an ancient legend narrates that fishermen painted their houses to see them from long distance when they were far away for fishing.

Where is Burano in Italy?

Burano is an island in the Northern Venetian Lagoon , 11 Km northeastern far from Murano and Venice , to which it is connected by the Canale Bisatto - Canale Carbonera - Scomenzera San Giacomo's trail: this route from Venice to Burano takes 45 minutes by boat. This island is easily reachable also from Treporti (10 minutes) and Punta Sabbioni (30 minutes), two Cavallino-Treporti 's resorts which overlook on the lagoon. Today in Burano there are around 3000 inhabitants, while the total number of people living in Venice and its islands is about 60000.

If you're going to visit Burano , you can find all the necessary information and suggestions on the page " getting to Burano ".

What to see in Burano

isoladiburano.it has created an useful guide with a map depicting the major attractions in Burano . So if you're planning to visit Burano, but you're not sure where to start, do not miss our guide entitled " Things to do in Burano ."

History of Burano

The inhabitants of Altino , escaping from barbarian invasion, find refuge in the islands of lagoon, giving them the names of the six doors of their thrown over city: Murano , Mazzorbo , Burano , Torcello , Ammiana e Costanziaca.

The name "Burano" arise from "Porta Boreana" , the northern door of the city.

In these islands the first houses were build on palafittes, with walls made of woven canes and afterwards plastered with mud. They were very light buildings constituted by an unique room, because the ground was too tender. Beds were made of dry leaves.

Later these raw houses were changed with buildings made of bricks and the older ones were used like warehouses.

Some scholar believe that Burano was not risen where it is situated today. In some ancient text is written that the island was situated nearest the sea and that its inhabitants must escape from it because of the strong tidal wave.

Instead in other texts is written which the position of Burano was never changed and which it has saved the island from malaria.

Since the time of Venetian Republic , Burano had only 8000 poor inhabitants (now 3000) predominantly fishermans and farmers. Thanks to the craft of lace workers, the island grew economically, exporting its fantastic laces all over the world.

Today Burano is lotted into five joined by bridge quarters: "San Martino Destro" , "San Martino Sinistro" , "San Mauro" , "Giucecca" and "Terranova" , traversed by their mill runs "Rio Ponticello", "Rio Zuecca" and "Rio Terranova".

The last big change was the principal mill run's closing off to build the square, which takes its name from the famous musician Baldassare Galuppi .

What are the major activities in Burano?

Once time ago fishing was the main job in Burano , while today is tourism besides retail trade and restaurants. That's why this site is intended as a small tourist guide to Venice and its islands which can help you to find answers to simple questions about Venice Italy as "where in Italy is Venice" .

Does handcraft exists in Burano?

Burano is very famous for its needle lace . However on the island there is a production of venetian masks and many people work in the nearest Murano , creating precoius glass objects. A detailed section about shops will be very useful for you to plan your shopping.

Where can I eat in Burano, Venice and its islands?

Isoladiburano.it set a section in which you can find information about both restaurants and pubs where to snack.

How can I find accommodation in Burano, Venice and its islands?

We offer a section about accommodation in Venice islands and around them, which will follow you to choose the fitter resort for your holidays. A lot of inns , bed and breakfasts , apartments and hotels in Venice are available, such as resorts in Burano and in the nearest places like Mazzorbo , Torcello , Murano, Mestre , Cavallino Treporti, Jesolo and Abano Terme .

Recently you can also book apartments in Burano or your stay in a typical house of Burano , once inhabited by fishermen and lace makers, through the page holiday homes and apartments in Burano .

IsoladiBurano.it and all the inhabitants of Burano wish you a good navigation ....and they hope that it will become a real holiday in our places.

Burano Tours and Venice Tours

Boat Excursions to Murano, Burano and Torcello

Duration: starting from 4 hours

Period: available all year!

Enjoy a little taste of the timeless atmosphere that you breathe in these places through a convenient and economic boat trip to the islands of the Venice Lagoon.

Departing from Venice, can be complicated for a tourist reaching Murano, Burano and Torcello by public transport, so we thought about comfortable tours of the islands which depart from the Santa Lucia train station in Venice, from Piazza San Marco and, in summer, also from Punta Sabbioni, the end of the Cavallino-Treporti coastline.

In our catalog there are various boat tours options: starting from the classic excursion to Burano, Murano and Torcello , up to the excursion to Murano and Burano with a fish-based lunch in a typical restaurant in Burano.

A novelty are also the tour of Burano, Murano and Venice starting from Punta Sabbioni and the daily excursion to Venice and its islands starting from Jesolo Lido.

In short, if you want to visit Murano and Burano , as well as Torcello and Venice, without sacrificing comfort, seating, explanation on board .... book online the boat trip that's right for you.

Choose the visit to the islands that you prefer, by pressing the button below to have access to our online catalog.

Venice Travel Cards

If you are a "DIY tourist", who prefer to move freely without the comfort of our tours, you can get to Burano with the public vaporetto (Line 12). You can skip the line at the ticket offices buying the water bus tickets online.

Week end in Venice

Plan your weekend in Venice : take a ride in our section dedicated to museums, events, tours, attractions and hotels in Venice and lagoon islands. Compose online your holiday package in Venice , adding to cart individual services and booking them all at once!

All these services are offered by a Venetian tour operators.

Local Handicrafts

New Arte Fuga - Lume Glass Factory

Via Giudecca, 132 - 30142 Burano (Venice Italy)

The New Arte Fuga shop in Burano, which is also a small glass factory, offers exclusively original Murano glass objects of its own manufacture.

Inside this shop it's possible to enjoy for free the " glass lume processing ", typical of the area around Murano.

Download the coupon for "New Arte Fuga" by clicking on the button below: showing it in the shop you will be entitled to a discount or a freebie.

Burano Accommodation

Burano Bed and Breakfast

Calle Daffan, 379 - 30142 Burano

Book your room in Burano, in the heart of the Venice Lagoon. Stay directly in the quiet Piazza Baldassare Galuppi of Burano.

Venice Hotels

Holiday lettings, homes and apartments in Burano

Would you like to stay in a typical colorful house of Burano, once inhabited by fishermen and lace-makers?

Venice Tours

A tiny collection of islands-turned-onetime maritime empire, Venice is one of the most enigmatic and...

Our tours in Venice

Exclusive Alone in St. Mark’s Basilica After Hours

Welcome to Venice: Walking Tour, St Mark's Basilica & Gondola Ride

Legendary Venice: St. Mark’s Basilica with Terraces & Doge’s Palace

Venice in a Day with St Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace & Gondola Ride

Tastes & Traditions of Venice: Food Tour with Rialto Market Visit

Exclusive Alone in St. Mark’s & Doge’s Palace Tour

VIP Doge's Palace Secret Passages Tour

Venice Boat Tour with Grand Canal & Tower Climb

Venice at Sunset: Cicchetti, Food & Wine Tour

Premium Lagoon Excursion: Murano Glass Making, Burano & Wine Tasting

What to know about venice from our local guides.

Venice offers countless enchanting experiences that will take your breath away. While you’ll never run out of things to see and do in the Floating City, here are a few can’t-miss options to get you started:

• Take a boat ride along the Grand Canal to admire the architectural beauty and lively waterways
• Step into iconic landmarks like St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace
• Explore further afield in the Venetian lagoon on an island excursion
• Discover the artistry behind Venetian masks at a workshop
• Immerse yourself in art at the Accademia Gallery and the Guggenheim Museum
• Delve into Venice’s cultural heritage at lesser-known gems like the Friari Church and the Grand School of St. Roch

Venice is a truly magical destination that’s sure to enchant visitors of all ages. And as a compact, car-free city, it’s a safe and enjoyable option for families. Kids and adults alike will be wowed by the breathtaking gold mosaics inside St. Mark’s Basilica. A gondola ride or boat tour is another only-in-Venice experience that’s sure to delight even the littlest travelers.

If you’re after a more organized activity, consider a family-friendly tour. Our Welcome to Venice Tour combines a visit to St. Mark’s with a light introductory stroll and a gondola ride. For food-loving families, our daytime Tastes & Traditions of Venice Food Tour features typical tastes kids will love, like sandwiches made with simple, delicious ingredients and authentic Italian gelato.

Spending hours waiting in line at St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace can quickly put a damper on what should be a wonderful experience in Venice. To beat the crowds and ensure you make the most of your time, consider booking a guided tour that will let you bypass the lines at these two top sights.

Want to take your Venice experience to the next level and have both St. Mark’s and the Doge’s Palace entirely to yourself? On our Exclusive Alone in St. Mark’s Basilica & Doge’s Palace Tour , you’ll step into both sites after they’ve officially closed to the public for the day for a VIP experience available to a select few.

Some of the best eateries in Venice are bacari , or wine bars popular among locals for drinks and light bites known as cicchetti. A few favorites from our guide team are All'Arco, Sepa, Vino Vero, Al Timon, and Vecia Carbonera—several of which feature on our Tastes & Traditions of Venice Food Tour !

Looking for the perfect restaurant for an authentic dinner? Check out Ristorante Al Covo, Casa Bonita, or Da Ignazio.

For a quick bite near St. Mark’s Square, you can’t go wrong with Birreria Forst, RossoPomodoro for delicious pizza to-go, and ll Calice. These are all fantastic options for the lunch break on our Venice in a Day Tour , too!

You can access Venice’s best-known outlying islands, Murano and Burano, by water taxi or vaporetto (line 12). For a more hassle-free experience, consider booking a guided tour with private boat transport. Our Premium Lagoon Excursion includes an exclusive Murano glassmaking demonstration and a VIP wine tasting at the only vineyard still operating in the lagoon.

As a city without roads or vehicles, getting around Venice via public transport works a little differently than it does in other cities. Here are a few options for getting around the Floating City.

• Traghetti: A local alternative to gondolas, used to cross the Grand Canal
• Vaporetti: Venice's water buses are a bit pricier than the traghetti, but cover more ground (or water!) with their extensive network.
• Water taxis: While this is easily the most expensive form of public transportation in Venice, it can be convenient if you’re traveling with a larger group (the taxis hold up to 10 people).
• Buses: If you’re traveling to Venice from the Italian mainland, the local public bus system has connections to Santa Croce in the westernmost part of the city—the only place where you’ll find any vehicles.

Check out our popular Venice articles

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all Venice Lagoon Islands tours and activities

Did you know that there are  more than 100 islands around Venice?  We certainly do not expect you to visit them all, but you definitely should know what are the best Venice islands to visit because of their history and traditions!

On this page you will find all our Venice islands tours: Torcello , with its splendid Basilica and the famous "Attila’s Throne ";  Murano  with its brightly colored houses and the traditional art of glass making;  Burano , known throughout the world for its wonderful lace.

Tours and Experiences

Full-day tour to murano, burano and torcello from st mark's area.

Duration: aprox. 7 hours

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Murano walking tour with local guide: the tradition of glass blowing and the island's art and architecture gems

Duration: 3 hours

small groups

Hop-on hop-off boat tour of Venice and the Lagoon Islands: 6/24/48 h tickets+ audio guides and visit to a Murano glass factory

Duration: 6, 24 or 48 hours

last second bookings

ideal for families

Half-day tour to Murano and Burano islands from Jesolo-Punta Sabbioni

Duration: approx. 5 hours

Sunset boat tour with aperitif & visit Venice by night from Jesolo-Punta Sabbioni

Duration: approx. 3 hours and 30 minutes

Half-day afternoon tour to Murano and Burano islands from St Mark's area

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Are you interested in a more original way to visit the islands near Venice, Italy? No worries, you can opt for the evocative  monastery of San Francesco del Deserto !

In short, there is something for everyone! And if you really haven't found anything that takes your fancy,  get in touch with us : we can arrange a private visit to the islands around Venice, Italy,  tailored to your needs ... you couldn’t ask for more!

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Venice Three Islands Tour

From 1.200,00  €

Venice Three Islands Tour  will take you to explore the three most famous islands of the Venetian Lagoon. An extremely relaxing tour, which combines many different aspects of the history,  tradition and handicraft of Venice

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Additional information, venice three islands tour: murano, burano and torcello..

Venice Three Islands Tour will take you to the most famous islands of the Venetian Lagoon: Murano, Burano and Torcello . An extremely relaxing tour, which combines many different characteristics of Venice. You will enjoy the natural beauty, craftsmanships, a genuine fisherman village atmosphere and the history of the earliest days.

Murano is the island famous for its glass making , a traditional activity that still preserves the ancient techniques of the past. You will admire the glass masters  producing the beautiful objects which have made them famous all over the world.

Burano  is the most cheerful, and one of the most populous islands of the lagoon. Its brightly painted houses give it the air of an Italian opera set. The success of its most important industries, like lace making, fishing and boat building, accounts for the well-being of its people. Yet lace is not the only attraction: the bright colours of the  houses, all different from each other, are outstanting. This is also the place where the best typical Venetian food can be tasted, as well as very good cookies.

Venice Three Islands Tour continues then to Torcello, the island considered the “Mother of Venice”.  Here the earliest waves of refugees escaping the Barbarian invasions from the Mainland settled down between the 5th and 7th centuries.

Today the island is nearly uninhabited (residents being reduced to 10). Covered by a rich typical vegetation, Torcello preserves the oldest monument of the Lagoon. The solemn Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta, founded in 639 and rebuilt in 1008, decorated with outstanding Byzantine mosaics.

A very relaxing and enjoyable tour!

DURATION: 5 hours

THE PRICE OF VENICE THREE ISLANDS TOUR INCLUDES:

• the service of a certified tour guide
• the hiring of a private luxury water taxi for the excursion
• admission to the Basilica of Torcello

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Venice at A Glance

How to get the most from a short trip in Venice? Our  Venice at a glance private guided tour is what you need if you want to experience the best offered by this amazing city, though you will only have a limited time to spend in Venice.

Venice with less walking

Venice with Less Walking  is a guided tour on a private boat to ride through the canals of Venice, and along the Lido and Murano islands, away from the tourist crowds, and no need to walk. An hour to relax, take picture, while learning about the history of Venice and the Lagoon Islands.

Venice Secret Gardens

Venice Secret Gardens are more than five hundred, hidden behind the façades of beautiful palaces or surrounded by high walls. Yet this natural heritage of the city is almost completely unknown to most visitors, and even to a certain number of locals. A very different way to see Venice.

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Venice Islands Tour to Murano, Burano & Torcello €30

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Venice Islands Tour to Murano, Burano & Torcello Tour Itinerary

Venice is much more than just one central location – there’s an entire collection of nearby islands that provide an incredible adventure away from the region’s most visited hotspot. Easily reached from Venice, the islands of Murano, Burano and Torcello each offer their own historical and cultural delights, and while travelers sometimes overlook them, this tour will have you discovering why they are well worth your time.

Join your dedicated tour leader as we set sail from Venice and carve our way between the picturesque islands of San Giorgio Maggiore, San Servolo, San Lazzaro degli Armeni and the Sant’Elena Gardens. Our first port of call is the island of Murano, which is divided into nine inlets that are separated by a series of charming waterways. Perhaps Murano’s most famous landmark is its eclectic glass factory, which still follows the traditions of glassblowing that date as far back as 1291 when the mainland’s artisans moved here. For several centuries, Murano was the center of glassmaking in Europe, with masters of the craft creating some incredibly beautiful works of art from this very spot.

We’ll continue our second stop, the island of Burano. Sometimes described as miniature Venice, the town’s brightly coloured houses and businesses instantly charm visitors. The island is also famous for its lacework, with the tradition having been carried forward for more than 500 years. Even today it’s considered some of the most refined lace in Europe and can still be difficult to find anywhere else. Here you can stroll through the island’s main square and find yourself gazing at the San Martino’s Church which holds the “Crucifixion” painting by Tiepolo, and the renowned famous tower.

Finally, we’ll make our way to the island of Torcello, which is believed to be where the original population of Venice first grew from in the 5th-century. Featuring a wealth of stunning palaces and churches, some of the island’s most striking monuments include the Byzantine Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and the Church of Santa Fosca with its distinct portico and Byzantine interior.

The main island of Venice might be the region’s foremost attraction, but its many nearby islands have their own special allure that any keen traveler must come and experience. From arts and crafts to historic structures, the islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello are simply superb.

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Skip-the-Line: Doge's Palace & St. Mark's Basilica Fully Guided Tour

Enjoy Skip-the-Line Access to St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge's Palace on this tour combining all the sights and sounds of our standard Best of Venice walking tour and the beautiful intrigue of the Doge's Palace.

Murano & Burano Islands Guided Small-Group Tour by Private Boat

Private Tour: Murano Glassblowing Experience from Venice with Prosecco

Enjoy venice with city wonders.

Venice could be the one place on earth where the dream matches up to reality. Embarking on an exploration of the Floating City is an experience not to be missed. Whether you’re traveling by water taxi or walking through the city’s famous St. Mark’s Square, you’ll be completely beguiled by Venice’s charm and mysteries.

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You’ll experience Venice exactly as you want to with our many tours. From St. Mark Basilica to the iconic Doge's Palce and tours that focus specifically on Venetian attractions, the choice is yours!

Exploring Venice

Once the travel bug has bitten, explore the rest of the lagoon  with a day trip from Venice . Take a boat to the Venetian island of Murano where assassins ensured that the elite craftspersons of the island never gave away their secret glassmaking methods. Or visit colorful Burano where legend has it that the foamy splashes of a mermaid inspired the local signorinas to create their intricate lace veils. 

Our tours are renowned for the “something extra” we try to add to every experience. Take a look at our tour details for information on our unique Skip-the-Line access to cut out the crowds.

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7 Beautiful, Outlying Islands in Venice (+ Map)

Stand along Venice’s famous Riva degli Schiavoni, staring out over the Venetian Lagoon, and you’ll quickly notice something enticing about this unique city: the dense historic center is only one of many islands in Venice.

Technically, the historic center itself is made up of many Venetian islands, but islands that are so tightly knit that a maze of 400 footbridges is (more or less) all that is required to combine them into a cohesive city.

Beyond this beautiful historic center, though, lies yet another version of Venice, one that only a small percentage of its visitors ever see: the outlying islands of Venice’s lagoon.

If you’re hoping to get beyond the usual attractions (and crowds) when visiting Venice, it may be time to board a vaporetto and set off on a new adventure.

Some of these Venetian islands are more popular than others, but each and every one of them is a breath of fresh air and a big step off the beaten path as compared to, say, walking across the Rialto Bridge.

Here are the best islands in Venice’s Lagoon to add to your trip, plus details on how to get there!

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How to Travel to Venice’s Islands

The most popular venetian islands, more beautiful islands in venice to visit, map of the islands of venice, italy.

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For most of these islands in the Venetian Lagoon, you’ll have two options for getting there: boarding a vaporetto, or booking a tour.

Taking a Vaporetto in Venice

A vaporetto, or water bus, is Venice’s answer to public transportation–but as far as public transportation goes, it’s quite pricey to use per ticket.

For that reason, we strongly recommend looking into an ACTV day pass for days that you’re planning to use the vaporettos quite a bit–for instance, when planning a day trip to one of Venice’s outlying islands.

Note that the estimated travel times we’ve included in this post are not exact–depending on your starting point, starting time, and exact destination, travel times by vaporetto can vary quite a bit.

Shop vaporetto tickets and passes today!

Booking a Tour to Visit Venetian Islands

For the more popular islands on the Venetian Lagoon, like Burano and Murano, organized day trips like this that include transportation can be an excellent value.

And, if you’re hoping to see more than one island in a day, they’re a great way to ensure that you’re making the most of your limited time, too!

This incredibly popular tour includes stops in Murano, Burano, and Torcello, and is perfect for travelers hoping to sample it all.

Book your day trip to Murano, Burano, and Torcello today!

This collection of 3 islands on the Venetian Lagoon are by far the most popular with visitors–and there’s a reason for that.

Each of them is known for a specific, unique trait that differs from the other islands in Venice, and they’re all located reasonably close together.

If you’re hoping to make a quick decision about which islands to visit, this popular tour (9000+ reviews!) that visits all 3 is a fantastic option.

Even if this is your first trip to Venice, there’s a good chance that you’ve heard of Murano Glass–and this island is the glass’ namesake and the traditional home of its production.

The art form has been present in Murano for over 1000 years, and since the 13th century, it has been coveted across Europe and the world, popping up in palaces across the globe.

Today, one of the most popular things to do in Murano is to attend a glass-blowing demonstration , which is very interesting to witness.

And, of course, if you’d like to purchase your own piece of Murano glass, you can’t ask for a better place to do so.

Travel Time from Venice’s Historic Center

About 15-20 minutes.

Above all else, the Venetian island of Burano is known for its color.

Step one foot onto the small island of Burano, and you’ll immediately be surrounded by its brightly colored houses, painted just about every hue that you can imagine!

Stories abound as to why the tradition of colorful paint jobs started, but a leading theory is that the distinct colors helped fishermen find their way home across the lagoon.

Today, though, Burano’s iconic colors are mostly beloved for their charm and photogenic nature.

And, the color isn’t even all Burano is known for: Burano lace has long been celebrated, and though traditional handwoven pieces are extremely rare and expensive, machine-assisted ones make excellent souvenirs.

Be sure not to miss the Tre Ponti or Burano’s very own leaning tower when exploring this island in Venice, either!

About 35-40 minutes.

Small, quiet, and packed with enough green space that Venice’s historic center will feel light years away, Torcello is one of the best islands to visit in the Venetian Lagoon.

Much less visited than Murano and Burano, Torcello’s popularity is nonetheless helped along by its proximity to colorful Burano.

Torcello was once home to over 20,000 residents, but today, only around a dozen remain.

While you’re there, the one attraction you can’t miss is the beautiful Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta.

Don’t miss the magnificent mosaics inside, or the stunning views of Burano from the top of the bell tower!

About 40 minutes.

If you want to get off the beaten path in Venice , these islands are fantastic options to do so!

For a city literally surrounded by water, surprisingly few travelers consider visiting the beach in Venice, even when visiting during the summer .

However, over on the Venetian island of Lido (in Italian, Lido di Venezia ), you absolutely can!

At 11 kilometers long, this barrier island is the perfect beach retreat that will make you feel like you’re much further from central Venice than you actually are.

The beaches on Lido generally boast incredibly calm, shallow water, perfect for families or those who just want to enjoy a laid-back day with the sun and sea.

About 30 minutes.

Lying across the lagoon from the historic center of Venice, the island of Giudecca is technically part of the sestiere of Dorsoduro .

Largely residential, Giudecca doesn’t offer much in the way of specific tourist attractions (though the Church of the Redeemer, featuring works by Tintoretto, is certainly worth a visit).

Mainly, though, visiting Giudecca today is about the atmosphere.

Made up of 8 small islands connected by pedestrian bridges, it’s a lovely place to wander, with some saying that exploring Giudecca is like experiencing what Venice would be without the tourists.

The views of the historic center of Venice from the edge of Giudecca are lovely, too, and it’s a great place to grab lunch or dinner!

5 minutes by vaporetto (from across the Venetian Lagoon).

San Giorgio Maggiore

If you’re standing on the popular Riva degli Schiavoni near Piazza San Marco and the Bridge of Sighs, you’ll be treated to an excellent view of a curiously tiny island featuring a church and bell tower across the lagoon.

And, if you’re anything like us, this view of San Giorgio Maggiore may be what piques your curiosity about the outlying Venetian Lagoon islands to begin with!

A quick  vaporetto ride  will deliver you to San Giorgio Maggiore, which does not take long to see but is well worth the trip.

The Basilica of San Giorgio Maggiore is a stunning building, but the main reason to visit the island is actually the bell tower ( campanile ).

The bell tower receives a fraction of the visitors that the popular St. Mark’s Bell Tower does, despite having an equally impressive view.

A smooth elevator ride will deliver you to the top of the bell tower (no climb required), and you’ll be rewarded with absolutely magnificent views of the Venetian Lagoon and central Venice.

Most strikingly, the view from the top of San Giorgio Maggiore’s bell tower features a picture-perfect view of  St. Mark’s Square , as seen from across the water.

About 10 minutes.

San Michele

Without a doubt, San Michele Island is one of the most unique islands in Venice.

Here, the entire island acts as a cemetery.

San Michele Island is a beautiful, sacred place, and visitors are expected to conduct themselves with respect (and subscribe to the same dress code you would in any Italian church: covered shoulders, no cleavage, etc.).

However, if you’re hoping to visit an unusual and somewhat secret Venetian island (secret from most tourists, anyway), there’s no doubt that this offbeat, active cemetery is unlike anything else you’ll see in the city.

About 10-15 minutes.

Take This Map With You! Click each highlight to pull up the name of the destination. To save this map to “Your Places” on Google Maps, click the star to the right of the title. You’ll then be able to find it under the Maps tab of your Google Maps account! To open the map in a new window, click the button on the top right of the map.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

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As one of the world's most famous destinations, Venice is just made to be explored. Consisting of 118 islands and 150 canals, there's certainly plenty of ground (and water!) to cover. Our Venice tours are designed to show you the very best things to do in Venice, from tapas and wine, to the beautiful landmarks in all their glory. Venture through Venice with a local to discover this unique Italian gem.

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Outstanding Tour My 2 adult children and I took this tour, as our time was limited, and boy did it deliver! Excellent overview of Venice, all the highlights! A lot of walking, but a gondola ride and lunch break in the middle makes it work. And got to see and hear about areas in the city that we wouldn’t ordinarily have been able to see. nik4nt

Perfect Experience! We thoroughly enjoyed Carolyn’s Yummy Cooking class. It was a delight for all of us, my husband, 2 teens and me! Not only did we learn about Italian cooking, but Carolyn gave us many insights to living and working in Venice Sally S

A great way to see the islands Our first experience of buying a tour via trip advisor was easy to do. Murano glass blowing demonstration really gives an appreciation of of the skills involved and Burano is a fascinating island with lots to see. 48Dane

EXCELLENT My girlfriend and I decided to try this mask making class. I have to say it was one of our favorite experiences. We walked in and were greeted by a man named Nicolao who was the son of a mask maker and an excellent mask maker himself. We were given all the supplies to make beautiful custom mask. ... SeanLuc K

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9 best venice tours: st. mark's basilica & more.

Explore one of the world's most beautiful cities on these top tours.

The Best Venice Tours

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Known for its canals, waterways, bridges and other historic attractions , Venice, Italy, offers travelers everything from centuries-old history to unparalleled beauty. Some of the best Venice tours take you to the quietest areas of the city – away from the crowds – to discover Venice's cuisine, wine and culture, while others showcase the city from the water by gondola or kayak. Consulting both traveler opinion and expert input, U.S. News identified the tours below as the best Venice has to offer.

Avventure Bellissime – Venice in 1 Day Tour

Price: Adults from 119 euros (about $129); kids from 104 euros (about $113) Duration: 3 hours

If you're short on time, consider this three-hour tour that hits multiple of Venice's top attractions. You'll enjoy skip-the-line access to St. Mark's Basilica , as well as a two-hour walking tour (capped at 20 participants) passing sights like Doge's Palace , St. Mark's Square , the Bridge of Sighs , the Rialto Bridge and more. The final leg of your tour is reserved for exploring Venice's world-famous waterways on a one-hour boat ride down the Grand Canal . This is a great way to see much of Venice in just one day, according to tourgoers. Travelers also say it's a great value.

Complimentary headphones are included. Tours run Monday to Saturday around 2:30 p.m. Note: Your shoulders, stomachs and knees must be covered to enter St. Mark's Basilica; large bags are prohibited inside as well. Know, too, that St. Mark's Basilica only offers skip-the-line tickets from April to October.

Check prices & availability on:

Venice Free Walking Tour – Campo SS Apostoli Venice Through the Centuries: North

Price: Free Duration: 2.5 hours

This tour could be a great way to start your visit to Venice. According to reviewers, valuable information is shared on the walk, including locals' recommendations of the best restaurants and places to visit, which could serve you well during the rest of your trip. Though each guide takes travelers along a slightly different route, you'll likely see some of the city's top attractions, learn about its centuries-old history and see much of its incredible architecture.

Tours depart daily at 11 a.m. from Campo Santi Apostoli in front of the well and travel to the eastern part of the Cannaregio district and the western part of the Castello district. The company asks you to consider donating what you think the tour is worth at its conclusion. Additionally, you must reserve a spot online in advance (there is a booking fee of 3 euros, or about $3, per participant). The company offers a couple of other sightseeing tours throughout Venice, as well.

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Venice Kids Tours – A Thrilling Secret Journey Into the Doge's Palace

Price: From 90 euros (about $97) per hour, per party Duration: 2 hours

Ideal for families with kids ages 7 to 18, this tour explores Doge's Palace. Guides lead families through some of the hidden corridors and secret passages not open to the general public as they share stories about the building's history. Also on the agenda is the attic prison, the former torture chamber and the armory, among other spots. Reviewers say their kids love the tour and recommend it to other families.

Kids must be at least 6 years old to tour; the company does not recommend the tour for pregnant women, or for those who have mobility problems or are claustrophobic. Trips depart in the morning only and are limited to five people. Venice Kids Tours offers other family-focused activities, such as scavenger hunts, walking tours and boat tours.

City Wonders – Murano & Burano Islands Small Group Tour by Private Boat

Price: Adults from $47; kids from $42 Duration: 5 hours

Explore two of Venice's most beautiful islands on this outing. You'll first journey to Murano by boat to see a glassmaking demonstration followed by time to shop and explore on your own. You'll then cruise to Burano, where you'll observe Italian women crafting lace by hand, visit a lace museum and stroll around the island. Travelers say the tour is educational and are pleased with the informative guides. Others wish they were given more time to explore the islands.

Tours run a few times daily, normally between 9 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. (and vary by season). City Wonders also operates tours of the Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Basilica, among other Venetian hot spots.

Courtesy of Walks of Italy)

Walks of Italy – Exclusive Alone in St. Mark's Basilica After Hours

Price: Adults from $90; kids from $86 Duration: 1.5 hours

This special tour treats you to an inside look at St. Mark's Basilica after it closes its doors to the general public. Guides lead no more than 25 tourgoers inside the basilica, sharing stories of its history as you explore. In addition, you'll visit the crypt, which is not open to the public during normal visiting hours. The crypt is said to house St. Mark's remains, as well as the Pala d'Oro altarpiece, which is adorned with nearly 2,000 gems. Tour-takers say after-hours is a wonderful time to see the cathedral and that guides are passionate and informed.

Tour times depend on the day, but generally depart between 7 and 9:45 p.m. several times a week. The company also offers a secret passages tour of the Doge's Palace, gondola rides and food tours, among other options.

Raphael Tours & Events – Rialto Food Tour in Venice

Price: From $103 Duration: 4 hours

On this tour, you'll explore Rialto by way of your taste buds as your guide takes you to pastry shops, wine bars, restaurants and markets. Along the way, you'll sample meats, cheeses, wines (including sparkling), polenta, olives and more. Travelers say the tour is wonderful and offers plenty to eat. They also appreciate the stories guides share during the adventure.

The tour operates daily, and start times are customizable. Raphael Tours also operates a walking tour of Venice.

Intrepid Urban Adventures – Cicchetti & Wine Tour of Venice

Price: From $107 Duration: 2.5 hours

Support the local economy on this foodie trip that takes you to locally owned and operated businesses to sample Venetian cuisine. During the tour, you'll eat seven cicchetti dishes (think: polenta, seafood and vegetables), drink five glasses of wine and indulge in one dessert. Though you may pass by some big sights like St. Mark's Square, you'll mostly visit less-touristy spots in the Rialto area of the city. Plus, you'll get to ride in a gondola. Travelers praise the tour guides and compliment the food and wine chosen.

Tours are typically offered Monday through Saturday at 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. While this is the company's sole Venice tour, you can tour with Intrepid Urban Adventures in Florence and Rome , too.

Venice Kayak – Premium Day Kayak Tour

Price: From 110 euros (about $119) Duration: 2.5 hours

Kayak your way through the Venetian lagoon on this trip. You'll immerse yourself in a new perspective as you paddle through canals. The company recommends you have a bit of paddling experience. If you don't, you may be able to ride in a double kayak with a more experienced paddler. Tourgoers say this is a wonderful way to see things you won't see on a regular tour and describe it as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Tickets include the use of all equipment, dry bags and shower facilities after your tour. (You may want to bring a change of clothes). Trips run daily at 5p.m. Venice Kayak offers a nighttime tour as well.

ShowMe Venice – The Secret Venice

Price: From $43 Duration: 2 hours

If you want to experience Venice like a true Venetian, travelers advise you to book this tour. You'll learn plenty about Venice's history – especially the Jewish Ghetto – all while exploring the city away from the busy tourist attractions. Tour-takers also appreciate the personal touches guides add to the tours, such as telling stories about their own life in Venice.

Tours are private, so you have your choice of departure times and days. Ticket fees will vary depending on the number of participants in your tour. ShowMe Venice offers a number of other tours both on land and in the canals via a boat.

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• The Best Venice Hotels
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17 Fun Things To Do In Venice Italy [2 day Itinerary Included]

W e took the train 4 hours from Rome to Venice on our 3 month backpacking trip around Europe and we got 2 gorgeous days with the sun shining! We couldn’t wait to explore this iconic city and to get out on the water. There are so many great things to do in Venice, Italy.

We loved Venice, the vibe, the canals, it is such a beautiful city.

Overview Of Venice

The city is located on 118 islands that are separated by 150 canals. It really does feel like a city on the water! A lot of the islands are connected by 400 footbridges while some of them like Burano and Murano you have to take a boat to get to them in the Venetian Lagoon.

There are no cars in Venice which was amazing. Knox commented how quiet the city was without cars!

You will only find four bridges that cross the Grand Canal. And won’t miss the 400+ gondolas that are floating through the canals all around the city.

Venice is magical. There really isn’t a better way to describe it. I know people have complained about it being too busy or smelly. But when we were there at the end of March/beginning of April it was perfect.

Not busy, not smelly and with the sun out it was perfect weather to be walking around the city.

That being said if you are going to visit Venice when it is busy we definitely recommend you book your tickets in advance and get as many skip the line tickets as you can. The worst thing to be doing in Venice would be standing in line!

Getting To Venice

We took the train into Venice. It was a very easy process and was a beautiful ride coming into the city. Be sure to check your trains stops and make sure you stay on until you reach the actual island.

Once you reach the island you can walk from the train station right across a bridge and into Venice. We purposely picked a vacation rental that was within walking distance to the train station.

That meant we weren’t close to the main attractions but the island isn’t that big so it was no problem walking anywhere we wanted to go.

Things To Do In Venice

Grand canal “tour”.

I have tours in quotes since this wasn’t a paid tour. This was us riding on the Grand Canal public water bus (vaporetto). It was packed with people using it as a bus to get around Venice.

We paid attention and quickly grabbed the seats at the front and got out my phone to open the Rick Steves Grand Tour app on my phone . His tour lasts 45 minutes – starting from the Piazzale Roma and bringing you just past St Marks Square.

It talks about places like the Basilica di Santa Maria Della Salute which is a beautiful church that was built in the 17th century to commemorate the end of a devastating outbreak of the plague that killed thousands of Venetians.

The tour was well done and helped us understand what we were saying as we were riding down the canal. If you don’t want to stay on for the whole tour you can hop on and off at any of the stops the boat makes.

St Marks Square

Next up we headed to St Marks Square (Piazza San Marco). We got our Rick Steves app again and read through some of the highlights of St Marks Square. While we were doing that we noticed all of the people sitting out have a drink in the square. We definitely wanted to try that!

We stopped at Caffè Florian. It was super expensive! But it was an experience so it was worth it. We got overpriced drinks and snacks and looked out over the square as we listed to the orchestra playing from the restaurant.

You could also choose to tour the Doge’s Palace when you are here and see the Ponte dei Sospiri or Bridge of Sighs. We figured with our kids they wouldn’t be into it. But if you like seeing Gothic palaces that were built in the 14th century you should do it!

**Fun Fact: The Bridge of Sighs is a small enclosed bridge that connects the Doge’s Palace to the adjacent prison. Legend has it that the bridge earned its name from the prisoners who, as they crossed it, would sigh at the sight of Venice for the last time before being locked up.

Another option would be to climb to the top of the Campanile di San Marco (bell tower) when you visit Saint Marks square.

Gondola Ride

We of course had to do a gondola ride! They only allow up to 5 people on 1 boat so luckily Nana and Boppa were with us and could take 2 kids!

It was an over priced but fun experience and we are glad we did it! At the time it was $85 for a 35 minute trip for up to 5 people. We tried to see if we could do 6 with the 4 kids but they said no they would lose their license.

I mean you can’t come to Venice and not do the Gondola Ride so be sure you budget for it. Now that we did it we won’t have to do it again but I am glad we did and that the kids got this experience.

It was also fun to explore the canals and see some areas of Venice you can only see on the Gondolas.

Rialto Market

We started the day with a trip to the fish market at the Rialto Market. It was quite the experience. There are all kinds of different fish just sitting out. I mean fish we have never seen before!

Plus there is blood on the ground from the fish and a definite fishy smell! Once of the crazy things is that when the market is done they clean it all up and you could barely tell it was there.

We didn’t buy anything . . . but I have to say I would love to hire someone to bring us to the market and help us pick things out. Then bring us back to our place to cook a delicious meal from the market.

Osteria al Squero

After that we headed to Osteria al Squero to watch the workers fix and build gondolas across the canal at Squero Di San Trovaso.

Scavenger Hunt

If you are traveling with kids you won’t want to miss this scavenger hunt around the city. It was a great way to teach the kids some history of Venice while making it fun and interactive. Plus we visited a couple of places we may not have found on our own during the hunt!

Our guide had a map and clues and split us into 2 teams so we could see who found the clues first and answered the questions correctly.

It was education and fun! And brought to our attention some different things in the city we may not have noticed on our own.

Libreria Acqua Alta

We found this stop on our scavenger hunt and I am so glad we did! It backs up to one of the canals and there is a book staircase you can climb up to look out over the canal.

The store has a gondola in it filled with books and books everywhere. It can get very busy and you may have to wait in line to get in.

Spiderman Movie Spots

If your kids are Spiderman fans they probably remember when Spiderman came to Venice. If that is the case be sure to stop to see the following two spots:

• Santa Maria Formosa Church
• Ponte de l’Arsenal o del Paradiso

The Rialto Bridge

Grab a picture on the famous Rialto Bridge! This is the iconic bridge in Venice that goes over the Grand Canal. If you spend any time in Venice you will most likely catch your self walking over this bridge a few times.

Take note the bridge is called The Ponte di Rialto in Italian.

Learn To Row As A Venetian

This is another activity our friends from Zula Life did when they visited and they said it was a blast! It is one thing to take a gondola ride but to be able to learn how to row that is awesome!

You can learn more about learning how to row as a Venetian here.

Carnival Mask Making

Zula Life also did this activity and said it was a great experience. There are masks stores all over Venice that you can buy masks at. But being able to make your own would be quite an experience!

You can book your own Carnival Mask Making class here.

Teatro la Fenice

If you are into Opera and/or architecture you are going to want to check out this Opera House. You can either do a tour or you can opt to come and see a show here. The Opera House has a long history of being destroyed or damaged by fire and rebuilt.

Burano Island

We only had a little bit of time to see Murano or Burano. We ended up going with Burano because I wanted to see all of the colorful buildings!

To get to the island we had to get on the water bus (vaporetto) at the Fondamenta Nuove stop and took the 45 minute ride over to Burano Island. We didn’t get there until almost 6pm so things were starting to close down. But we were able to grab a quick dinner at Trexento and make a stop in a couple of the shops.

The island’s buildings are painted in bright colors such as pink, blue, green, and purple. The origin of the brightly colored houses is said to be from the fishermen who used to live on the island. They painted their houses in bright colors so they could easily spot them from the sea.

Burano Island is also famous for its traditional lace-making industry. The art of lace-making has been passed down through generations of Burano families, and today it is still possible to see artisans creating delicate lace items by hand. My Mom bought some when we were there.

We definitely wish we had more time on the island! We also really enjoyed seeing the views of Venice from the water on the way here and back.

We didn’t make it To Murano Island on this trip but we ill next time! I just couldn’t resist the colored buildings of Burano so made the choice to go there since we could just go to 1 island. However, getting to Murano from Venice only takes about 10-15 minutes by water taxi (vaporetto).

Murano Island is known for the art of glass making. The skill dates back to the 13th century when the Venetian Republic ordered all glass factories to move to the island to prevent fires in the city. Since then, Murano has been renowned for its exquisite glassware, and the island’s artisans continue to create unique glass objects by hand using traditional techniques.

When you go to Murano you can watch the glass-making process in action by visiting one of the island’s many glass factories and studios. These studios offer guided tours that showcase the intricate and complex process of creating glass objects. You can also see the stunning finished products on display in the studios and purchase them as souvenirs.

Our friends from Zula Life visited Murano Island and did a glass making class and they said they loved it!!

You can see the video of them in the class here.

Where To Eat In Venice

Gelateria il doge.

This Gelato spot is located in Campo Santa Margherita. The kids were able to get their ice cream and they sat by a fountain to eat it while us and my parents found an open table at Fuori Rotta to get a glass of wine.

When the kids came to find us after they were done with their gelato by Dad gave them 20 Euro and said go see what else you can find. That give us a chance to sit for a bit longer and finish our glass or bottle of wine.

Birraria la Corte

We were excited to head to Birraria la Corte to try their pizza! When we walked in they asked if we had a reservation . . . umm no. I guess that meant we might not get a table. Luckily they had some outside seating and since it was a bit cooler not many people wanted to sit out there.

It was actually really nice and we always prefer to eat outside when we can. The drinks were good and the pizza was delicious!

Cip & Ciop

This was a fun little restaurant/bar right by where we stayed. They had these delicious handheld foods like fried mozzarella pocket things and vegetarian tapa’s and other ones filled with meat. I don’t even know the right way to describe them but they were so good!

You just walked up to the counter and they had everything on display in the case so you just asked for what you wanted. We went and ordered and came back and ordered more since it was so good.

I think they are called Cicchetti. Like the Italian version of Spanish Tapas. In any case if you are in Venice ask around about Cicchetti and try all the things!

Cantina Do Spade

Make sure to stop here for a Mozzarella Sandwich. We just stopped in to grab one to go and it was delicious!! While we waited we also got a glass of wine and that was good too.

Where To Stay In Venice

When picking where to stay we picked a place – Residence degli Artisti – that was close to the train station so we could easily walk from there to our vacation rental with our backpacks and bags.

The place we picked wasn’t close to St Mark’s square but we liked that it was tucked away and not in the middle of all the hustle and bustle of Venice.

The place – Residence degli Artisti – was beautiful and we were glad we stayed here.

Venice Itinerary

Here is what we did on our 2 days in Venice. We definitely could have stayed longer. We really fell in love with Venice!!

Venice – Day 1 (day you arrive)

• Head to the Piazzale Roma water bus (Vaporetto) stop. To start the Rick Steves Grand Canale tour at the right place. Check out the water bus schedule here. You can buy your tickets online before you get there.
• Ride the water bus to the St Marks Square stop. If you want more context check out the Rick Steves Tour of St Marks Square on his app. Stop here for a drink in the square.
• Birraria la Corte for dinner.
• Breakfast and Coffee at Cip & Ciop
• 10am – Rialto Market Area – only open until 1pm
• Osteria al Squero to watch the Gondola workshop across the canal (squero di san trovaso).
• Campo Santa Margherita and get gelato at Gelateria il Doge [Dorsoduro 3058/A, Rio Terà Canal]
• Stop at Cantina Do Spade for mozzerella sandwiches.
• Santa Maria Formosa Church – which was in the Spiderman movie.
• Liberia Acqua Alta
• Ponte de l’Arsenal o del Paradiso – which was in the Spiderman movie.
• 2pm – Gondola Ride – 30-45 minutes.
• 3pm – Scavenger Hunt Tour
• 5pm – Head to Burano Island
• Burano Island for dinner at Trexento
• Head back to Venice

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The post 17 Fun Things To Do In Venice Italy [2 day Itinerary Included] appeared first on Crazy Family Adventure .

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As Venice starts charging tourists, here are the other rules Italy has introduced for visitors

Venice isn’t the only place in italy that has recently introduced new measures aimed at tackling overcrowding, article bookmarked.

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Venice has became the first city in the world to introduce a payment system for visitors in an experiment aimed at dissuading tourists during peak periods.

Around 30 million tourists visit Venice in a typical year – with about seven out of 10 (or 21 million) staying only for the day. Just before the Covid pandemic, Unesco warned the city’s “status as a World Heritage property is in jeopardy”.

A leading city transport and tourism official, Arianna Fracasso, told The Independent the scheme is aiming “to safeguard the city from overtourism ”.

Ms Fracasso said: “It’s like a museum in the open air, so we want to safeguard it.”

However, Venice isn’t the only place in Italy that has recently introduced new measures aimed at slowing tourist flows.

Here are some of the initiatives currently in force across Italy:

Read more on Italy travel :

• The best small towns and villages to visit in Tuscany
• The adventure holiday in Italy tracking wolves and endangered bears – just 90 minutes outside of Rome
• The best holiday destinations in Italy for this year

The lagoon city has introduced tickets for day trippers that cost €5 and are valid from 8.30am 4pm local time. The experiment came into force on 25 April , a national holiday in Italy. Tickets will be needed for the following 10 days and thereafter for most weekends until mid-July.

Venice residents, students, workers and home owners are exempt from paying or booking a slot. Visitors aged under 14 and tourists with hotel reservations will need to be registered, but access for them will be free of charge.

How does the Venice system work?

Simon calder explains:.

Any visitor who wishes to be in the historic heart of Venice – anywhere in the city apart from the Piazzale Roma transport access area and the offshore islands – between 8.30am and 4pm on the prescribed dates must register online, in advance, at cda.ve.it/en.

You will need a QR code on your smartphone or printed out to be allowed inside the ancient city.

If you simply want to pay the fee, clicking on “Pay the access fee” will take you through a fairly straightforward process. One tricky aspect is that you have to pretend you have read the privacy policy (all in Italian) by clicking on it, before you can enable a checkbox.

Other cities, such as Como , have said they are considering introducing a similar measure, but are waiting to see how the Venice initiative works before deciding.

Besides this, Venice has also said that from June it will limit the size of tourist groups to 25 people and ban the use of loudspeakers by tour guides.

Florence announced in October it was banning new short-term residential lets on platforms such as Airbnb in its historic centre. It also offered three years of tax breaks to landlords of short-term holiday lets if they start offering ordinary leases for residents.

The city’s famous museum, the Uffizi, offers discounts to people who arrive before 8.55 a.m. and lower prices off-season. To spread out crowds, it also closes at 10pm once a week.

Cinque Terre

The five villages that make up the Cinque Terre on the Italian Rivieria regularly get swamped with visitors.

To try to reduce the overcrowding at peak periods, the authority which oversees the area said this week it would charge visitors €15 to walk the most celebrated coastal path. In addition, the path can only be walked in one direction.

Read more: Why you should visit Lerici, Italy’s under-the-radar alternative to the Cinque Terre

The picturesque small island that lies across the bay from the southern city of Naples has doubled its entry fee, which is automatically added to ferry tickets, to €5. The fee will be charged from 1 April to 1 October.

Ischia, Procide, Lampedusa, Linosa

These islands have introduced limits, or outright bans, on cars for non-residents during the main tourist season.

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