Venice is one of my favorite places to visit. It’s as if you entered into an entirely different world and actually feels surreal when you’re there. The canals, gondolas, architecture, narrow streets, cobblestone streets, and water taxis – these all make up the unique appeal of Venice. But Venice isn’t just the main island (called the historic centre), there is so much out there to explore including the 4 best Venice islands that you must see.
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4 Best Venice Islands To Visit
Burano
I put Burano first as one of the best islands to visit in Venice because if I could only visit one island, I would no doubt choose Burano. This island is filled with brightly colored houses and gives a small village-like feel.
If you walk further into the island to an area where you’re just surrounded by houses and away from the lake, you will not see many visitors. That’s when you can hear the quiet sounds of Burano and even hear residents chatting if their windows are open. It’s a very homey feeling.
Burano is also known for its lace so you can see many shops selling lace.
Murano
Murano is known for its handmade glass pieces. It’s one of the best Venice islands to visit because Murano glass is very well known worldwide and highly sought after. Many artists and glassblowers come to Murano to create their glass pieces. On the island, you can see many shops selling Murano glass.
While you’re here, try to catch a glass-blowing show. There are a few glassblowing shows throughout the island but I recommend going to the Ellegi Glass Vetreria Artistica. They don’t have scheduled times – just go and wait for their next show. Once they have enough audience members, they will start.
Torcello
Torcello island is the smallest island out of the entire list and also the least amount of visitors but it’s definitely one of the islands in Venice that are worth visiting.
Once you get to the island, you walk down a pathway along a long lagoon to reach the main part of the island. Right in the middle of the island is the Church of Santa Maria Assunta and they require an entrance fee.
Most of the island is quite empty and there are only a handful of residents.
Lido
When people refer to the 3 islands off Venice or the 3 main islands, they usually refer to Murano, Burano, and Torcello. However, Lido is another island that is kind of a hidden gem.
This island makes you feel like you’re not in Venice. There are cars and buses and looks very modern compared to the rest of Venice. Lido island also has a beach at the edge of the island which looks like a typical beach you’ll see in California. It’s a unique experience to come here after visiting all the other islands because it feels like you’re back in a city.
How To Get To These Islands
Visiting all these 4 Venice islands is enough time for a day trip.
If you’re comfortable getting to these islands yourself, you can ride the Vaporetto from any main island stop to the islands in this order: Murano, Burano, Torcello, then Lido. Murano is the closest, Burano is much farther, and Torcello is just a tiny bit farther than Burano. Lido is quite close so you can stop by on the way back.
If you don’t want to go yourself…
The first time going to these Venice islands yourself can be a bit nerve-wracking so if you’d rather do a short tour, this day tour to Murano, Burano, and Torcello is a convenient way to explore all three popular Venice islands. This tour stops at a glass factory in Murano and provides motorboat transportation to all three Venice islands.
Read more: If you’re looking for more things to do in Venice, check out this 3-Day Venice Itinerary! This detailed itinerary feature the best Venice islands and what to do on the main Venice island.
Frequently Asked Questions About Venice
Are Venice islands worth visiting?
Yes, absolutely! The main island in Venice is not very big and can be easily seen in 1-2 days. The islands are a completely different experience and so worth it. The best Venice islands I recommend going to Murano, Burano, and Torcello. If you have time, visit Lido as well.
Which is the best island in Venice?
It’s ultimately based on personal preference but I strongly think Burano is the best. The colorful houses across the entire island are incredibly unique and there’s nowhere else that compares to it.
Which is better Murano or Burano?
Personally, I love Burano! Murano has really amazing glass but I think Burano’s colorful houses are so unique.
How many islands in Venice?
There are approximately 118 islands in Venice. There are many islands that have been abandoned or only have a few residents.
How many canals in Venice?
There are around 150 canals in Venice connected by over 300 bridges. The most popular canal is the Grand Canal.
