Islands Venice: The guide update!

Hey travelers! If you’re here, it’s because Venice fascinates you, and you’re looking to explore it from a new perspective: the Venetian islands. Yes, Venice isn’t just a city of water, gondolas, and bridges; it’s also an archipelago hosting numerous islands, each with its unique history, character, and of course, iconic sights to visit.

In this guide discover all the islands Venice has to offer, from famous spots like Murano and Burano to hidden gems. Ready to set sail? Let’s dive in!

Islands Venice: All you need to know

Venice isn’t just a city: it’s a collection of islands and smaller islets, a maze of canals, palaces, and wonders. But exactly how many islands in Venice are there? The Venetian archipelago includes over 100 islands! Among them, about twenty main islands are perfect for an excursion: Murano, Burano, Torcello, and Sant’Erasmo are just a few of the most famous.

Here’s what to know before exploring the islands:

Getting Around the Islands: The easiest way is to take the vaporettos, the Venetian “water buses” that connect Venice to the various islands.
Schedules and Seasons: Some vaporetto services have limited schedules, so check before you go.
Choosing the Islands: The main islands are easily visited in a day, but if you want to explore every corner, it’s best to dedicate a full day to each of the islands in Venice.

Islands of Venice Italy: The ultimate guide

When you think of the floating city of Venice, you might picture a romantic gondola ride winding through the canals or a stroll in Piazza San Marco. But beyond the main island lies a whole world waiting to be discovered—the magical Venetian archipelago in the Venetian Lagoon. Venice isn’t just one island; it’s a vast network of over a hundred islands that make up this historic city.

Let’s start our island hopping journey! Take a private water taxi or hop on a vaporetto to reach Murano, the home of Murano glass. Here, you can explore glass factories and the Murano Glass Museum, where master glass artisans have been honing their craft for centuries. Just nearby, Burano bursts with charm thanks to its brightly colored houses and the Lace Museum, celebrating the centuries-honed lace craftsmanship of this tiny island. Feeling adventurous? Head to Torcello, one of the most remote islands in the lagoon, where you can admire the beautifully preserved Byzantine mosaics at the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta.

For those seeking quiet, San Michele—the island that serves as Venice’s cemetery island—offers a serene escape from the crowds, with its ornamental gardens and solemn churchyards. And if it’s the sand you’re after, don’t miss the Lido di Venezia, where you’ll find an uninterrupted beach stretching along the Adriatic Sea. Lido has long been a favorite tourist destination, even hosting the Italian Prime Minister and the famous Venice Film Festival.

Looking for art and architecture? San Giorgio Maggiore awaits, featuring a multilevel marble landmark designed by the Renaissance phenom Andrea Palladio. Climb its head-spinning bell tower for an incredible view of the city of Venice and San Marco. Nearby, the island of San Servolo offers fascinating insights into Venice’s history as a psychiatric hospital, with exhibits featuring works by Italian painter Emilio Vedova.

Beyond the main highlights, don’t overlook mazzorbo island with its colorful waterside establishments and sparsely populated streets, or the small island of Santa Maria. And if you crave a little Venice within Venice, visit Giudecca, often called “mini Venice,” with Art Deco architecture, ornamental gardens, and even some sandy beaches.

Whether you’re visiting the largest island or the minor islands like San Polo, this cluster of islands is full of unique experiences. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and start exploring the enchanting islands of Venice.

The Venetian archipelago stretches between the Adriatic Sea and the lagoon, creating a unique and unforgettable landscape. Each island has its own character, and today many of the islands Venice are more accessible than ever thanks to organized tours and vaporettos. But why are the Venetian islands worth a visit?

Here are a few of the top reasons:

Art and craftsmanship: Many islands are famous for glassmaking, lace, and their connections to world-famous artists.
Scenery: The islands offer a different atmosphere from the bustling center of Venice. Each island has its unique charm, colors, and postcard-perfect views.
Local traditions: The Venetian islands hold on to traditions that date back centuries, often tied to the sea and traditional trades.

What are the 5 Islands of Venice Italy?

The five main islands not to be missed are:

Murano: The island of glass.
Burano: The island of colorful houses and lace.
Torcello: The oldest and most historic island.
Giudecca: Known for its relaxed atmosphere.
San Michele: The cemetery island, haunting and peaceful.

Venice Islands list

Let’s take a look at a list of the most popular islands to choose from:

Murano: Famous for glass blowing, it’s one of the most visited islands. Don’t miss the glass factories!
Burano: Known for its colorful houses and lace production, it’s a dream spot for photography lovers.
Torcello: The oldest island in the lagoon, with historic churches and a serene atmosphere.
Giudecca: Famous for the relaxing space typical of the Venetian lagoon.
Sant’Erasmo: The green island of Venice, known as the "vegetable garden" of Venice.
San Michele: Known as the cemetery island of Venice, it’s a haunting and atmospheric stop.
Poveglia: Have you ever heard of the cursed island of Venice? We are really talking about Poveglia.

3 Islands off Venice: Murano, Burano and Torcello

What are the absolute most famous islands of Venice in the world? When we talk about the islands of Venice, Murano, Burano, and Torcello are a must-see trio, easily reachable in a single day with a combined tour. Here’s what to expect from these incredible spots:

Murano

Murano is undoubtedly the most famous among the islands of Venice Italy for its world-renowned glass blowing. Founded as a refuge from the Lombards, it developed an art of glassmaking that still fascinates visitors today.

What to see in Murano islands Venice:

Museum of Glass: Discover the art of glassmaking over the centuries.
Church of San Pietro Martire: This church hosts masterpieces by Bellini and Tintoretto.
Artistic Glassworks: A tour of the glass factories is a must to see the masters at work.

Burano

Burano is the island of colorful houses and lace, a true paradise for photography lovers. Each house is painted a different color, a tradition that, according to legend, helped fishermen find their way home on foggy days.

What to see in Burano islands in Venice:

Baldassare Galuppi Square: The heart of Burano, where you’ll find shops selling handmade lace.
Museum of Lace: Dedicated to lacework, one of the island’s finest crafts.
Colorful Houses: Wander through the alleys to admire the brightly painted facades.

Torcello

Among the Venice islands, Torcello is the most peaceful, a true oasis. This island has an ancient history dating back to the Roman period and hosts historic monuments that will take you back in time.

What to see in Torcello islands of Venice:

Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta: With its Byzantine mosaics, it’s one of the island’s artistic highlights.
Devil’s Bridge: A medieval bridge shrouded in legend.
Attila’s Throne: Said to be the throne of the Hun king, though it was more likely used by local leaders.

Venice Islands Murano vs. Venice Islands Burano

Murano and Burano are two of the most famous islands in Venice, but they’re very different from each other.

Murano: This is the center of glass art, with a craft more tied to glass factories and industrial culture. If you love design and art, Murano is perfect for you.
Burano: This island is more picturesque and colorful, known for lace-making. It’s a smaller island, ideal for those looking for unique photo spots.

Murano Islands in Venice

Just minutes away by vaporetto from Venice, Murano is waiting to surprise you with its art and history. But what to do on this island?

Join a workshop: Many glass factories offer short workshops where you can try your hand at glassblowing.
Visit the Murano lighthouse: An iconic structure built in the 12th century to guide boats through the lagoon.
Taste local delicacies: Stop by the local restaurants to enjoy typical seafood dishes.

Burano Islands in Venice Italy

If you love lively and colorful atmospheres, Burano is the island for you.

Here’s what to do in Burano:

Photograph the Canals and colorfulhouses: Every corner is a unique viewpoint.
Try the local sweets: Burano is famous for “bussolai,” butter-flavored cookies.
Buy handmade lace: A unique souvenir to bring home.

Islands in Venice tour: What to do and see

A tour of the Venice islands is the best way to experience the charm of the lagoon.

Vaporetto tour: The most convenient and quick way to visit Murano, Burano, and Torcello.
Photography tours: Many tours are designed for photographers, with stops at the most scenic spots on the islands.
Gastronomic tours: A unique culinary experience with tastings of Venetian dishes and local wines.

Venice Islands to visit: the other famous and popular islands of Venice

There are many islands in Venice to visit, but some are truly unmissable:

Lido di Venezia: Famous for its beaches and the Venice Film Festival.
Giudecca: Perfect for those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere, with a view over the lagoon and authentic local eateries.
San Francesco del Deserto: A monastic island offering peace and spirituality.

What is the main Island of Venice called?

The main island of Venice is simply called Venice, the beating heart of the lagoon, the one we all know for St. Mark’s Square and the Grand Canal. Venice is divided into six sestieri (neighborhoods) and is home to the city’s most iconic landmarks.

How many Islands in Venice?

In total, Venice is made up of 118 islands, although many are tiny and uninhabited. The main islands number around 20, including Murano, Burano, Torcello, the Lido, Giudecca, Sant’Erasmo, and San Michele.

Island near Venice with colored houses?

The island of colorful houses is undoubtedly Burano, famous worldwide for its brightly painted homes and charming bridges. Here, the colors once helped fishermen find their way home during winter fogs.

Are the Islands in Venice worth visiting?

Absolutely! The Venetian islands are like separate worlds, each offering a unique perspective on Venice, away from the tourist crowds. Every island has a distinct atmosphere, and visiting them is like stepping into parallel, enchanting worlds.

What are the three Islands off Venice?

The three main islands are Murano, Burano, and Torcello. They’re easily reachable by vaporetto and offer a fantastic variety of experiences.

How do I get to other Islands in Venice?

The easiest way to reach the islands of Venice Italy is by taking the vaporetto. Vaporettos depart from the main stations and run frequently between islands.