Here’s a guide to the best specific photo spots on Venice’s islands that you can capture during your Venice boat tour.
Venice is a city that seems tailor-made for photographers, with its labyrinth of canals, historic architecture, and romantic ambiance. However, some of the most photogenic spots lie beyond the main island, scattered across the Venetian Lagoon on various smaller islands. These islands each offer unique settings for stunning photography, from vibrant neighborhoods to ancient ruins.
1. Casa Bepi Suà in Burano: a burst of colour and history
While the entire island of Burano is famous for its brightly coloured houses, one spot stands out for its eccentric charm: Casa Bepi Suà. Located on a small, unassuming street (Fondamenta Giudecca), this house is the most colorful of them all, with its façade painted in a patchwork of geometric shapes and vibrant hues.
Bepi Suà, the former owner, was a local legend who would spend his days painting intricate designs on the house. Today, Casa Bepi is one of the most photographed spots on Burano. Visit in the late afternoon when the colors are particularly vibrant, and the light softens the edges of this unique piece of Venetian folk art. This location offers a great opportunity for detailed shots that capture the whimsical spirit of the island.
2. The glassblowing workshop of Vetreria Artistica Emmedue in Murano
Murano’s reputation for glassmaking is legendary, and one of the finest places to witness this artistry up close is the Vetreria Artistica Emmedue. Located on the bustling Fondamenta dei Vetrai, this contemporary glassmaking workshop is where traditional craftsmanship meets modern creativity, offering a captivating experience for photographers.
As you step inside the Vetreria Artistica Emmedue, you’re immediately enveloped in the vibrant atmosphere of a working glass studio. The workshop’s interior is a haven for those looking to capture the intricate process of glassblowing. The glowing furnaces cast a warm, golden light that contrasts beautifully with the cool tones of molten glass, creating a dynamic play of light and shadow that enhances the drama of the craft.
Photographing here offers an array of opportunities. Focus on the master glassblowers as they expertly shape the molten glass, capturing the intense concentration on their faces and the fluid, precise movements of their hands. The vivid colors of the glass, as it transitions from fiery orange to clear, provide stunning visuals that are a feast for the eyes.
Close-up shots of the artisans’ hands manipulating the glass with specialized tools highlight the delicate skill and artistry that define Murano glassmaking. Whether you’re interested in the broader scene of the workshop or the finer details of the glassblowing process, Vetreria Artistica Emmedue offers a rich environment for creating visually striking and memorable photographs.
3. The Byzantine mosaic of Santa Maria Assunta on Torcello
Torcello may be a quiet and sparsely populated island, but it’s home to one of Venice’s most spectacular artistic treasures: the Byzantine mosaics of the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta. The mosaic of the Last Judgment, which covers an entire wall, is particularly striking, with its vivid colors and intricate detail.
Photographing this mosaic requires patience and a good understanding of light, as the interior of the church is often dimly lit. Using a tripod or steady hand, focus on capturing the expressions and details of the various figures in the mosaic. The golden background, typical of Byzantine art, adds a rich, luminous quality to the images, making this spot a must-visit for anyone interested in religious art and history.
4. Bell Tower of San Giorgio Maggiore: iconic views of Venice
The bell tower of the Church of San Giorgio Maggiore offers arguably the best panoramic view of Venice, and it’s a spot that shouldn’t be missed on any photographic journey. The island itself is located directly across the water from St. Mark’s Square, providing a perfect vantage point for capturing the entire cityscape.
From the top of the bell tower, you can photograph the Grand Canal, St. Mark’s Basilica, and the Doge’s Palace, all set against the shimmering waters of the lagoon. Visit during the golden hour—shortly after sunrise or just before sunset—for the most flattering light. This is the ideal place to use a wide-angle lens to capture the full scope of Venice’s grandeur.
5. Ponte del Diavolo on Torcello: a bridge steeped in legend
Another gem on the island of Torcello is the Ponte del Diavolo (Devil’s Bridge). This ancient stone bridge, dating back to the 15th century, is notable for its simple, unadorned design, lacking the usual parapets. Its name and history are shrouded in local legends, adding a sense of mystery to the scene.
The bridge spans a small canal lined with greenery, creating a peaceful, timeless setting that’s perfect for atmospheric photos. Capture the bridge from a low angle to emphasize its arc and the reflection in the still water beneath. Early morning is the best time for photographing the Ponte del Diavolo, as the soft light enhances the tranquil ambiance and reduces the likelihood of crowds.
6. Sant’Erasmo’s Torre Massimiliana: rustic beauty and open skies
On the island of Sant’Erasmo, the Torre Massimiliana stands as a relic of Venice’s military past. This 19th-century fortification, located on the island’s northeastern tip, offers a stark contrast to the surrounding farmland and orchards. It’s an excellent spot for capturing the blend of nature and history that characterizes much of the Venetian Lagoon.
Photograph the tower from a distance to include the surrounding fields and the expansive sky above. The structure’s weathered stone walls, set against the green of the fields and the blue of the sky, create a compelling composition. During the late afternoon, the warm light of the setting sun casts long shadows that add depth and drama to your photos.
7. The Murazzi on Lido di Venezia: a unique coastal landscape
The Murazzi, a series of large stone seawalls on the Lido di Venezia, provide a striking setting for coastal photography. Built in the 18th century to protect the lagoon from the sea, these massive barriers stretch along the island’s eastern coast, creating a rugged, textured landscape that contrasts with the smooth, sandy beaches nearby.
Photograph the Murazzi during the golden hour when the setting sun bathes the stones in warm light and casts dramatic shadows across their surfaces. The interplay between the rough stone, the gentle waves, and the changing colors of the sky makes for captivating images. You can also experiment with long-exposure shots to capture the movement of the water against the stillness of the seawalls.
8. Piazza Baldassare Galuppi in Burano: capture local life
While Burano is famous for its colorful houses, Piazza Baldassare Galuppi offers a different perspective of the island’s charm. This central square is the heart of Burano’s community, surrounded by pastel-colored buildings, quaint cafes, and the beautiful Church of San Martino with its leaning bell tower.
The square is a fantastic spot to capture the daily life of the island, with locals going about their routines and children playing. The combination of the lively atmosphere, historic architecture, and vibrant colors creates a dynamic setting for street photography. Try photographing from one of the side streets leading into the square to frame the scene with the colorful facades of Burano’s houses.
Final Tips for capturing Island Gems on a Venice Boat Tour
When photographing these iconic spots on Venice’s islands, consider the time of day and weather conditions to make the most of natural light. Early mornings and late afternoons are often the best times for photography, offering soft, warm light that enhances the colors and textures of your subject. Pay attention to reflections, shadows, and the interplay between light and water, which are key elements in Venetian photography.
Remember to explore beyond the obvious and look for unique angles or lesser-known details that tell the story of these islands. Whether it’s the intricate glasswork in a Murano workshop or the rustic charm of a hidden corner in Burano, these details can make your photographs stand out.
Embark on your boat tour with your camera ready, and prepare to capture the timeless beauty of Venice’s islands—each with its own story to tell and a wealth of photogenic spots waiting to be discovered.
