Exploring Venice means immersing yourself in a world of art, history, and charm that stretches beyond the Grand Canal. For a truly unique experience, Venice boat tours offer a gateway to the hidden treasures of the Venetian Lagoon, especially the enchanting islands of Murano and Burano.
At Serenissima Tour, we offer exceptional island-hopping experiences that bring you face-to-face with the artistic and historic wonders of Venice.
Island hopping is a popular travel activity where you explore multiple islands in a single journey, usually by boat. In the Venetian Lagoon, this means venturing beyond Venice itself to discover a collection of smaller islands, each with its own unique charm, history, and culture. The Venetian Lagoon, stretching over 550 square kilometers, is home to around 118 islands, though only a handful are inhabited or easily accessible for visitors. For travelers seeking to escape the bustle of Venice and experience more of the region’s heritage, island hopping is an ideal way to explore these lesser-known, but captivating, destinations.
Keep reading: Boat Tickets Venice: Better an Excursion or the Waterbus?
Here are some of the best islands to discover in the Venetian Lagoon:
Venice Boat Tours – the best Island-Hopping
1. Murano – The Island of Glass
Famous for: Glassmaking tradition
Murano is perhaps the most famous island in the lagoon due to its centuries-old tradition of glassmaking. Since the 13th century, Murano has been a hub for artisans who create intricate glass sculptures, vases, jewelry, and chandeliers. Here, you can visit glass workshops, watch demonstrations, and buy authentic Murano glass. Many boat tours, like those offered by Serenissima Tour, include stops at local glass studios, often with special discounts on purchases. Murano also has a Glass Museum where you can learn about the history of this art form and see priceless glass masterpieces from various eras.
2. Burano – The Colorful Fisherman’s Island
Famous for: Colorful houses and lace-making
Burano is a picturesque island known for its brightly painted houses and exquisite lace-making tradition. The vibrant colors of the houses were originally painted by fishermen so they could see their homes from the lagoon. Today, these rainbow-colored buildings make Burano one of the most photogenic spots in the lagoon. Burano is also home to some of the best seafood restaurants, serving fresh fish and traditional Venetian dishes. The island’s lace-making tradition is centuries old, and you can watch skilled artisans create delicate lacework at local shops or the Museum of Lace.
3. Torcello – A Peaceful, Historic Retreat
Famous for: Ancient churches and serene atmosphere
Torcello is one of the oldest and most historically significant islands in the lagoon. Once a thriving center of commerce, it is now sparsely populated and peaceful. Torcello offers a quiet escape, with highlights including the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, which dates back to the 7th century and is adorned with stunning Byzantine mosaics. Other notable sites include the Devil’s Bridge, a stone bridge steeped in legend, and Attila’s Throne, an ancient stone seat rumored to belong to the Hun leader. Torcello’s serene and timeless atmosphere offers a stark contrast to the bustle of Venice.
4. San Giorgio Maggiore – Iconic Views of Venice
Famous for: Panoramic views and Palladian architecture
Located directly across from Piazza San Marco, the island of San Giorgio Maggiore is known for its stunning basilica designed by the architect Andrea Palladio. The Church of San Giorgio Maggiore is an architectural masterpiece, and its bell tower offers one of the best panoramic views of Venice, the lagoon, and the surrounding islands. This island is often quieter than Venice, allowing for a peaceful visit with remarkable views.
5. Giudecca – The Local’s Island
Famous for: Artisan workshops and views of Venice
Giudecca is a more residential island, offering a taste of local life away from Venice’s main tourist areas. Known for its artisan workshops, Giudecca has a creative, slightly bohemian atmosphere with art galleries, studios, and charming cafes. The Church of the Redeemer (Chiesa del Redentore) is one of the island’s main landmarks and is the focal point of Venice’s Redentore Festival, which takes place every July. Giudecca offers wonderful views of Venice and is a favorite spot for visitors looking to experience the city’s more authentic, less commercialized side.
6. Lido – Venice’s Beach Escape
Famous for: Beaches and the Venice Film Festival
Lido di Venezia, often simply called Lido, is a barrier island that separates the Venetian Lagoon from the Adriatic Sea. Unlike most other islands in the lagoon, Lido has sandy beaches, making it a popular spot for summer relaxation. The island also hosts the Venice Film Festival each year, attracting filmmakers and celebrities from around the world. Lido has a different vibe from Venice’s historic center, with tree-lined boulevards, Art Nouveau architecture, and modern amenities, making it an attractive destination for both beach-goers and cinema lovers.
7. Sant’Erasmo – Venice’s Garden Island
Famous for: Agriculture and peaceful countryside atmosphere
Sant’Erasmo is known as the “vegetable garden” of Venice. This island has been a key supplier of fresh produce to the city for centuries. Its fertile land produces artichokes, asparagus, and other vegetables that are staples of Venetian cuisine. Sant’Erasmo is ideal for visitors looking to experience the rural side of Venice. It has biking trails, vineyards, and natural landscapes, perfect for a relaxing day in the countryside. The Torre Massimiliana, a historic fortress on the island, offers insights into the island’s history and provides great views of the surrounding landscape.
Keep reading: Boat Tours in Venice Italy: the enchanting charms of minor islands in the Venetian Lagoon
Making the most of Island Hopping with Venice Boat Tours
Island hopping in the Venetian Lagoon is a fantastic way to experience the rich diversity of Venetian culture. Each island offers something unique, from Murano’s glassmaking to Burano’s colorful houses, Torcello’s ancient churches, and Lido’s beaches. A guided Venice boat tour, such as those offered by Serenissima Tour, is one of the best ways to enjoy island hopping. These tours often provide informative guides, convenient travel options, and even special discounts on local crafts.
Discover the Benefits of Exploring the Lagoon with Serenissima Tour
1. Discounts on Glassware Purchases in Murano
Murano is celebrated worldwide for its glass-making traditions, a skill passed down through generations of master artisans. With Serenissima Tour, you’ll not only get to witness this magical craft up close but also enjoy an exclusive 20% discount on all glass purchases. It’s the perfect opportunity to bring home a unique piece of Venetian artistry at a special price.
2. Convenient Service to Murano and Burano
We know that comfort is key when traveling. By choosing Serenissima Tour, you’ll skip the hassle of public transportation and enjoy a smooth, enjoyable ride on a spacious, comfortable boat. Our itinerary is designed to make the journey as pleasant as the destinations, allowing you to focus on soaking in the beautiful surroundings.
3. On-Board Hostess to Enrich Your Experience
One of the highlights of our tours is the expert hostess who will accompany you onboard. With their deep knowledge of Venice and its islands, they’ll share fascinating stories and insights that bring each location to life. You’ll hear about hidden corners, cultural traditions, and historical anecdotes that even many Venetians might not know. This personal touch transforms a simple boat ride into an engaging journey through Venetian history and culture.
Why Choose Venice Boat Tours with Serenissima?
A boat tour with Serenissima Tour is not just a sightseeing experience; it’s a journey crafted to provide deep insights into Venetian culture, traditions, and artistry.
Serenissima Motoscafi has been organizing boat tours in Venice since 1924, making us the longest-standing tour company in the region. We pride ourselves on our expertise, professionalism, and dedication to showcasing the best of Venice to our guests.
Ready to discover the beauty of Venice’s islands? A Serenissima Tour boat trip is the perfect way to escape the crowds and delve into the lesser-known wonders of the lagoon. From Murano’s glass to Burano’s colors and Torcello’s ancient charm, each island has its own story to tell. Don’t miss the chance to experience Venice beyond the main canals—book your island-hopping adventure with Serenissima Tour today!
