I visited Burano as part of my 1-day trip in Venice, and stopped by Burano first-thing in the day.

Burano

Burano, a small island in the Venetian Lagoon, is famous for its brightly colored houses, intricate lacework, and charming canals. Located just a short boat ride from Venice, Burano offers a tranquil escape from the crowds, providing visitors with a glimpse into a slower, more traditional way of life. The island's vibrant palette and rich cultural heritage make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Venice and its surroundings.

Getting There

Burano is easily accessible from Venice via the Vaporetto (water bus). You can catch the Vaporetto from the Fondamente Nove stop in Venice. Lines 12, 9, and 14 all make their way to Burano, with Line 12 being the most direct route, taking about 40-45 minutes. For a more detailed schedule and ticket information, visit the ACTV official website.

Things to do

Explore Burano's colorful streets

One of the first things you'll notice upon arriving in Burano is the explosion of color. Each house on the island is painted in bright hues, creating a picturesque scene that's perfect for photography.

The tradition of painting houses in such vivid colors dates back centuries and was originally meant to help fishermen find their way home through the fog. Today, this tradition continues, with residents following strict guidelines on maintaining their homes' colorful facades.

Strolling through the narrow streets and along the canals, you'll find that every corner of Burano offers a unique photo opportunity. Be sure to visit Via Baldassarre Galuppi, the main street on the island, where you'll find a mix of shops, cafes, and restaurants, all housed in these iconic colorful buildings.

Discover Burano's Lace-Making Tradition

Burano is renowned for its lace-making tradition, which dates back to the 16th century. The island's lace was once so prized that it was used to decorate the clothing of European nobility. Today, while the number of traditional lace-makers has dwindled, you can still find artisans practicing this delicate craft.

A visit to the Museo del Merletto (Lace Museum) is a must for anyone interested in learning more about this intricate art form. The museum, located in the historic Palazzo del Podestà of Torcello, offers exhibits on the history of lace-making in Burano, showcasing beautiful examples of lacework from different periods. You can also watch live demonstrations by skilled lace-makers, who continue to create these intricate designs by hand. For more information on visiting the museum, check out the Museo del Merletto's official website.

Visit the Church of San Martino

Another highlight of Burano is the Church of San Martino, a charming 16th-century church located near the main square. The church is known for its leaning bell tower, which adds a unique twist to the island's skyline. Inside, you'll find an impressive painting by Giovanni Battista Tiepolo, a famous Venetian artist, depicting the "Crucifixion."

The Church of San Martino is a peaceful spot to take a break from exploring, and its proximity to the town's main square makes it easy to visit. The leaning bell tower, which tilts slightly due to the soft ground on which it was built, is a popular subject for photographers.

Shopping for Souvenirs

When it comes to shopping, Burano offers a variety of options for unique souvenirs. In addition to lace and biscuits, you'll find shops selling handmade glass jewelry, colorful ceramics, and other locally crafted items. The prices here tend to be more reasonable than in Venice, making it a great place to pick up gifts for friends and family.

Be sure to browse the shops along Via Baldassarre Galuppi, where you'll find a mix of traditional and modern items. Many of the shops are family-run, and the owners are often happy to share the stories behind their products.

If you're planning to purchase lace or other souvenirs, be aware that while there are many shops selling genuine handmade lace, there are also some selling mass-produced items. If you're looking for authentic, handcrafted lace, be sure to ask about the origin of the pieces and look for shops that are run by local artisans.

Explore!

Like Venice, Burano is mostly outdoors and unsheltered, so wear light and apply sunscreen generously. Burano is lined with many narrow streets and colorful houses. Be sure to explore to have a taste of local culture. Walk slightly away from the town center and you can find bright and colorful houses time to time.

At some point, you might find yourself in Mastro da Piazza Baldassare Galuppi, a wide open space with many shops along the sides selling souvenirs.

If you proceed east towards the canal and walk along Riva dei Santi, you can get a great, unobstructed view of Church of Saint Martin Bishop, a 16th century Catholic church. One of first thing you'll see is that the tower is actually tilted slightly, similar to the famous Leaning tower of Pisa.

Some reading online made me understand that the slant is due to land subsidence, which causes it to be inclined at 1.83 meters.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Burano is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) when the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are thinner. During these months, temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), making it ideal for exploring the island's attractions and strolling along its canals.

Summer (July to August) is the peak tourist season, and while the weather is warm, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F), the island can become crowded with day-trippers from Venice. If you visit during the summer, consider going early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the busiest times.

Dining options in Burano

No visit to Burano is complete without sampling the local cuisine. The island is known for its seafood, particularly its risotto dishes, which are made with freshly caught fish from the lagoon. One of the best places to try these dishes is at Trattoria al Gatto Nero, a beloved local restaurant that has been serving traditional Venetian cuisine for decades. Be sure to try the Risotto di Gò, a creamy risotto made with a small fish called Gò, which is unique to the lagoon.

Burano is also famous for its Bussolà and Esse biscuits, sweet treats that are made with simple ingredients like butter, sugar, and eggs. These biscuits are often enjoyed with coffee or dessert wine and make for a great souvenir to take home. You can find them at local bakeries and shops throughout the island.

As for me, I visited during the day and dropped by Pastry Bakery Palmisano Carmelina, a bakery selling a huge range of delectable pastries.

If you are dropping by, try their cookies which go perfect with a cup of coffee, or a cannoli for a more savoury option.

Other important information

When planning your visit to Burano, it’s important to note that the island is relatively small, and most attractions can be seen within a few hours. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as Burano, like Venice, is best explored on foot. Also, while English is widely spoken, learning a few basic Italian phrases can enhance your experience, especially when interacting with locals in smaller shops and eateries.

Budget Considerations

Visiting Burano can be done on a variety of budgets. Since the island is easily accessible from Venice, you can plan a day trip without needing to spend on accommodation. Vaporetto tickets cost around €7.50 for a single journey, but if you plan to visit multiple islands or use public transportation frequently, consider purchasing a Venice travel card.

Once on the island, most activities, such as exploring the streets and visiting the church, are free. The Lace Museum charges a small admission fee, and dining at a local restaurant can range from €15 to €30 per person, depending on where you choose to eat.

Safety

Burano is generally a safe destination, but like in any tourist area, it’s wise to be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded places. Pickpocketing can occur, so keep your valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings.