Venice Islands, Italy

Venice Island, Italy

Venice, the city built on water with complex canals going everywhere often leading to places only accessible by water. Visited during the first week of September which peak tourist season but it ended up working out fine as most of the time was spent away from the main streets and squares. Hotel Spagna was home base during the stay as it was in a wonderful location minutes away from the train/bus terminal but not too far from everywhere else by foot. It was nice to have restaurants and gelaterias right next door to the hotel for good eats at any time during the day.

Wandering off the main tourist path and getting lost in the labyrinth of Venice is a must do for anyone looking for more than just the main highlights. The island has so much character once you deviate from the souvenir shop lined main streets and squares. Even better is that since you’re on a small island, you really cannot get too lost.

Basilica di San Marco (Saint Mark’s Church) along with Doge’s Palace are the two biggest sites for travelers to see. Situated around Piazza San Marco, this place is always crowded with people. Looking to avoid the crowds and day-trippers? Visit during the sunrise or evening hours. Only then do you get the peacefulness that really is Venice.

The Grand Canal and Rialto Bridge

Murano Island, Italy

The Venetian Lagoon is made up of many islands, each with its unique charm. Venice is the most famous one visitors see; however, there are a handful of other ones worth checking out. Starting off in the morning, I made my way to Murano Island via the vaporettos (water buses). It’s pretty cool to get from place to place via boat vs. the traditional metro and bus system of other cities. Murano is the island famous for its colorful glass craftsmanship. Some of the work there was truly remarkable with the level of detail in the glassmaking, which has been passed down from many generations. There are many glass factories throughout the island and most are open to visitors, providing an experience to watch the master glass makers at work. It’s the place to buy authentic Murano glass. It’s definitely not cheap but knowing you’re buying authentic Murano glass from the renowned island itself should be reassuring.

Burano Island, Italy

Another great island to visit is the island of Burano. This island is known for their super colorful houses lined up along the various canals. Given my visit was on a Sunday, the town was very quiet which provided for a nice stroll.