Discovering Burano and Torcello
Burano with its colorful houses, and Torcello with its stunning mosaics, are two must-visit islands when you explore Venice. Unfortunately, many travelers make the error when discovering Venice, of dedicating only one or two days. In my recent post about Murano, many readers commented that they could not visit other islands due to time constraints. Venice is a stunning city and its lagoon is enchanting too. While it’s impossible to discover all the islands, including some of them on your trip is absolutely possible.
Burano
Small colorful houses alongside narrow waterways make Burano, in recent years, one of the most Instagrammable places in Italy. Additionally, Burano is historically famous for its intricate lace. Strolling around this island, you will find, in the main square, a museum dedicated to this production.
As Silvana, a woman I met while in Venice explained, there were 8500 inhabitants in Burano after WWII. Since then, the population has decreased by half, making it a unique destination to experience local Venetian life. Silvana lamented that younger generations prefer the comfortable lifestyle that the mainland offers, including the use of a car! However, getting lost in time while walking this town is an inimitable travel experience.
Torcello
Among all the islands around Venice, Torcello is my favorite. The furthest from the mainland of Venice, (the vaporetto ride takes 50 minutes), it is also the island with the most magnificent historical heritage. Here resides the unbelievably beautiful Church of Santa Maria Assunta, with stunning Byzantine mosaics. Founded in 639, the cathedral has intricate tile works dating to the 11th century. Without a doubt, the Last Judgement scenes on the entrance wall and the Virgin and Child in the apse are of particular historical note.
Although photos inside the church are prohibited, the emotional imprints they make within will remain for a lifetime. In addition, from the bell tower it is possible to take beautiful pictures of the captivating lagoon below.
Top tip — Try to visit Torcello in the morning and indulge your senses with lunch at Locanda Cipriani. If you are going during the warmer months, book a table outside under the pergola, or in the garden. The restaurant is charming and offers a lovely view of the cathedral.
How to get to Burano and Torcello
You can reach Torcello and Burano taking the vaporetto from Fondamenta Nove. While in the area, do not miss a visit to the beautiful church of Gesuiti.
And for a truly remarkable experience, rent a private boat for a day and discover, at your own pace, the islands around the lagoon and Venice.
Other islands in the Venetian lagoon
Besides Burano and Torcello, there are many other islands located in the lagoon. While it is impossible to see them all in one visit, here is a list of others you may consider.
San Giorgio
Located across from San Marco and Palazzo dei Dogi, it boasts one of the best spots for taking pictures of Venice. At the tower bell of the church, enjoy stunning views of Palazzo dei Dogi and St. Mark’s tower bell. There is also a captivating auditorium that overlooks the lagoon, and Borges’ Labyrinth, a garden inspired by the Argentinian writer.
San Michele
In front of the Arsenale of Venice, this island in the Venetia lagoon hosts a beautiful and historic cemetery.
Murano
This is a magnificent destination if you want to discover the art of making glass. It’s truly a fascinating process, and maybe for its relatively close distance to Venice, it’s the most visited island.
