Alternative Islands in the Lagoon (Beyond Murano-Burano-Torcello): How to Explore Lesser-Visited Islands

The Venetian Lagoon has conventionally been thought of as a tranquil stretch of water sprinkled with three iconic islands: Murano, Burano Island Venice, and Torcello. In fact, the lagoon is much larger and much more complex in its culture than these famous names could give an impression of. 

Stretching over more than 550 square kilometres, the lagoon contains upwards of sixty islands-some inhabited, others abandoned, some transformed into farms, monasteries, or nature reserves. Many remain largely unseen by the millions of visitors who arrive each year.

Beyond the usual tourist routes, one finds a world of tranquility, history, and ecological diversity. Smaller islands offer serene landscapes, close-up views of daily Venetian life, and rare possibilities of grasping the extraordinary cultural and environmental richness of the lagoon. 

If travelers want to delve deeper into it, slow down the pace, and find Venice without crowds, these little-known islands will provide the perfect retreat.

This article explores the lagoon beyond its main trio, revealing islands preserving local traditions, rural lifestyles, monastic silence, fortified ruins, and vibrant fishing communities. It does so while providing practical advice on how to reach them, how to explore responsibly, and how to create thoughtful itineraries that reveal the lagoon's authentic character.

Unmissable Venice Tours

Understanding the Venetian Lagoon beyond the main trio

A Diverse Cultural and Ecological Landscape

The Venetian Lagoon is not one environment, but a tapestry of contrasting identities, from abandoned monasteries covered with ivy, remnants of medieval quarantine stations, and archaeological fields that trace ancient trade routes, to thriving rural communities of farmers cultivating vineyards and artichoke fields.

The visitor will find industrial remains from the nineteenth century, serene natural reserves with migratory birds, and beaches where the only noise is caused by wind and water. Such variety reflects centuries of adaptation because Venice had to keep a balance between religious diffusion, maritime commerce, food production, and engineering in the lagoon.

Some islands - Giudecca, the Island of San Michele, the Venetian Lido - appear in guidebooks but are far less visited than central Venice.

Why These Smaller Islands Matter

Less-visited islands preserve fragile traditions lost to urban Venice over the years. Farmers on Sant'Erasmo still grow their famous violet artichokes using techniques passed along for centuries. Venetians in Vignole hold dear private gardens and orchards near the water. Chioggia, at the very southernmost edge of the lagoon, retains a fishing culture that has defined Venice's culinary character.

These islands also shelter unique ecosystems-wetlands, dunes, marshes, and vineyard plains-which remind visitors that Venice once relied heavily on the lagoon for agriculture, fishing, and boatbuilding. 

Many were once fortified outposts or spiritual retreats, exemplifying the role of the lagoon in religion, defence, and maritime control.

How to Visit Responsibly

Because so many of these alternative islands are small communities or fragile nature zones, respectful travel is key: stick to marked paths, avoid disturbing wildlife, and follow the instructions of monks or guardians on monastic islands.

Support local businesses—whether farmers' stalls, small vineyards, or family-run trattorie—to help sustain these communities.

Carrying away waste, keeping noise low, and sensitivity to photography should be exercised at all times, especially on the Island of San Michele, where memorial etiquette is very important.

Islands Less Famous-Yet Worth Seeing

San Francesco del Deserto - The Monastic Sanctuary

Located between Burano Island Venice and Sant'Erasmo, San Francesco del Deserto is one of the most tranquil islands in the lagoon. Cypress trees outline the paths to a centuries-old Franciscan monastery devoted to contemplation and silence.

Guided visits are given at limited times, usually by monks who talk about spiritual traditions associated with the island. The atmosphere is meditative, full of birdsong and views across tranquil waters. This is a place where travellers experience the lagoon's introspective side.

Sant'Erasmo – Venice's "Vegetable Garden"

This island is often referred to as the orchard of Venice. It is the largest and most fertile in the lagoon. Its famous artichokes, asparagus, vineyards, and orchards supply kitchens all over the city.

The best ways to see its countryside are by bicycle. Quiet lanes wind past small farms, sandy shores, and vineyards that offer wine tastings. Open fields, breezy paths, and seasonal harvests create the perfect combination for nature lovers in need of space and tranquility.

Mazzorbo – Quiet Neighbour to Burano

Connected to the island of Burano by a wooden bridge, the island of Mazzorbo is an oasis of tranquility. Wooden walkways run through vineyards and orchards, opening onto wide views of the lagoon. A famous wine estate stands at the centre of the island, testimony to traditional viticulture.

Mazzorbo is ideal for a slow journey: picnics, strolls, photography, and the enjoyment of quiet landscapes framed by water.

Vignole – The Picnicking Island

Known to Venetians as a perfect weekend retreat, Vignole boasts gardens and small farms and shaded, tree-lined walks. Families come for picnics, outdoor games, and a sense of space that rarely exists in Venice.

Though close to major waterways, Vignole remains uncommercialized, offering only a few local plots and fishing sheds. Its mellow and relaxed atmosphere appeals to travellers seeking an authentically 'local' favourite destination.

Lazzaretto Nuovo – Archaeology and Ancient Plague History

Lazzaretto Nuovo constitutes one of the most historically striking islands in the lagoon. Once a major quarantine station during Venice's maritime era, the island comprises fortifications, long warehouses, archaeological remains, inscriptions left by sailors, and remnants of constructions related to plague containment and trade regulation.

Archaeology, maritime customs, and even medical history are all covered by guided tours. It allows visitors interested in such explorations a glimpse into the less familiar corners of Venetian history.

Island of San Michele - Venice's Cemetery Island

The Island of San Michele is Venice's peaceful cemetery, situated amidst cypress trees and quiet pathways. Sculptures, historic tombs, and mausoleums reflect the artistic traditions of the city.

Its nature is solemn, while the island represents a more contemplative cultural experience. Admirers of heritage sites include it in their tours related to memory, art, and spirituality.

Giudecca – Quiet Residential Waterfront

Giudecca is one of the most authentic residential areas in the lagoon, boasting broad waterfront promenades, artisan studios, churches, and panoramic views of San Marco Venice.

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The peaceful quaysides and spaces for contemporary art make it a satisfying stop for travelers who look for an alternative to the crowds of central Venice. It also features ideal paths for leisurely walking and photography.

Pellestrina – Colourful Fishing Villages & Natural Dune Systems

Pellestrina extends along the lagoon’s southern edge, separating it from the Adriatic, with its colorful fishing villages, narrow lanes, and long dunes protected by the murazzi-the eighteenth-century sea walls.

Cycling is highly recommended, as routes run along beaches, trattorie, harbour areas, and natural viewpoints. Pellestrina's authentic maritime atmosphere appeals to those who enjoy photography, seafood, and community life.

Chioggia – The “Mini Venice” at the Lagoon Edge

Chioggia, beyond Pellestrina at the southern end of the lagoon, is a lively fishing town full of markets, canals, bridges, and bustling piazzas. It captures something of Venice's past-a working maritime city shaped by fishing and boatbuilding.

Visitors enjoy waterfront walks, early-morning fish markets, and architecture reminiscent of Venice's medieval core. Chioggia is perfect for travelers who want a full-day excursion offering lively culture without heavy tourism.

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Alternative Islands of the Lagoon to Explore

Means of Public Transport

The vaporetto network makes exploring many of the lesser-visited islands quite straightforward. Important lines include services to Sant'Erasmo, Mazzorbo, Giudecca, Vignole, the Venetian Lido and further on. Travellers usually set out from either San Marco Venice, Piazzale Roma or Fondamente Nove, according to their destination.

Travel times vary, from ten minutes to Giudecca to about forty minutes for Sant'Erasmo. Chioggia and Pellestrina are reached using two ferries and a local bus.

Small-Group or Private Boat Tours

Private or small-group boat tours provide a means to get to islands that have less frequent public transportation. Guided navigation opens up historical sites like the Lazzaretto Nuovo or San Francesco del Deserto. Often, visitors get commentary on ecology, archaeology, and local customs.

Greener Ways to Explore

Cycling in Sant'Erasmo and Pellestrina is perfect thanks to its flat terrain and scenic roads. On the other hand, Mazzorbo, Giudecca, and Vignole have walking routes encouraging slow exploration with low impact. Small rowing boats or electric boats offer sustainable alternatives to motor vessels wherever available.

Best Times to Visit

Early mornings have soft light, peace, and especially photographic opportunities. Late afternoons offer warm colors and comfortable temperatures. The shoulder seasons mean spring and autumn are ideal times to avoid heat and humidity; hence, pleasant lagoon excursions.

Proposed Programs with Alternative Islands

Half-day: Serene Monastery & Lagoon Views

San Francesco del Deserto: Guided monastery visit and reflective walk in the garden

Vignole: Picnic in the shade of trees, facing the horizon of The Venetian Lagoon.

Full Day: Rural Lagoon Experience

Sant'Erasmo: morning cycling, farm visits, seasonal tastings.

Mazzorbo: Vineyard exploration, Lagoon View Point Walk

Optional stop for sunset near the quiet shore of Burano

Photography Itinerary

Mazzorbo: wooden walkways and rows of vineyards

Giudecca: panoramic promenade facing San Marco Venice

Pellestrina: fishing villages with colorful facades and evening shadows.

Cultural and Historical Route

Island of San Michele: visiting the cemetery and historic sculptures.

Lazzaretto Nuovo: archaeology and quarantine history

Chioggia: medieval alleys, fish market, and canalfront strolls

What to Bring Along for Island Exploration

Travellers should wear comfortable walking shoes that can be suitable for uneven paths, bringing water, light snacks, sun protection, and a camera for taking lagoon panoramas.

Modest clothing is recommended while visiting monastic islands or any memorial sites. Bring small cash with you; this could be helpful while visiting rural farms, vineyards, or local cafes that may not support card payments.

Visitor Information & Ticket Information

Visitor Information

Opening Hours: Visiting the less well-known islands of the Venetian Lagoon generally follows the timetable of water-transport services rather than strict site-opening hours, since many islands remain open access. 

As one guide notes, “less than a handful of the minor islands in the Venetian Lagoon are open for visits” and some have restricted hours.

For instance, the Island of San Michele cemetery is “open for visits from the morning until one hour before sunset (vaporetto 4.1/4.2)”.

The monastic island of San Francesco del Deserto also shows guided tour access on a limited schedule: from Tuesday to Sunday at 9:00 am-11.00 am, 3:00 pm-5:00 pm. 

Visitors should always check with the individual island – especially if the site is a monastery or nature reserve – for up-to-date hours before departing.

Best Time to Visit: The best times to explore these alternative lagoon islands are during early mornings or late afternoons. While early mornings offer soft light, few crowds, and peaceful exploration, the late afternoons have gentle light, cooler temperatures, and serene boat rides. 

This is less crowded in the shoulder season, a time when all experiences are much more genuine, according to one lagoon guide.

In addition, islands served by fewer ferry services rather than frequent vaporetto lines are best reached before midday or just after lunch, since you'll avoid infrequent return services or longer waits.

Dress Code and Entry Rules: These islands are best visited with modest, respectful dress-codes and behavioural rules. For monastic or cemetery islands-for example, San Francesco del Deserto, the Island of San Michele-visitors should wear shoulders covered, knees covered, and behaviour of quiet respect. 

Nature-reserve islands also require low impact behaviour: stay on marked paths, no loud music, carry out litter brought. 

Given the number of rural islands with less tourism, guests should bring their own water, wear comfortable shoes, and be prepared for sparse food or facilities. At some of these remote sites, a guided boat is required to land – guests should check if prebooking is necessary.

Ticket Information

Unlike most Venice attractions, most of the less-visited islands of the lagoon do not impose site-entry fees, but the cost is in the transfer either by boat or vaporetto. For instance, one article about the lagoon does recommend a 24-hour vaporetto pass (~€24 per adult) so island hopping could, in fact, be doable. 

City Wonders Where an island does house a museum, monastery or guided tour, there can be a small admission fee: for example, on San Francesco del Deserto, visitors pay a donation on guided access. Both families and travelers will want to budget for transportation-appropriately via water-bus or private boat-and any additional fees at each site. 

Online Booking: As many of the islands are accessible via public vaporetto, while others require guided boats or special landing permissions.

Transfers or access by guided boat to remote islands. 

Guided tours of monastic or protected islands (with limited hours). 

Specialty experiences, wine tastings on rural islands, farm visits. 

While general water-bus tickets can be bought on board, one can often find 24-hour or 48-hour passes online that simplify logistics. 

Travellers should check cancellation policies, whether imported boat rides are included, and if return services operate after sundown.

Guided Tours: For many of these alternative islands, choosing the guided tour offers considerable advantages: knowledge about local ecology, history, craft industries, and rural traditions is often not well-signposted. For example, an article on the lagoon mentions organized boat tours for islands such as San Francesco del Deserto. 

Guided tours might include transfers by boat, expert commentaries, entrance to restricted sites, and very often include parts of islands that are less accessible for tourists traveling independently. 

Private or small-group tours might be preferred by families or photography-oriented visitors in order to maximize time and access. 

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How to travel the Islands Respectfully

Supporting Local Communities

Buying local produce, visiting artisan workshops, dining in family-run trattorie-all support island economies. Local tour guides provide a far richer experience and help to continue the traditions of the community.

Protecting Fragile Ecosystems

Do not stray from marked pathways, do not litter, and respect all wildlife and their habitats. Many islands are sensitive ecosystems that require careful preservation to prevent further damage to the land.

Understanding Cultural Context

There are places-such as the Island of San Michele-that require silence and respect. Other places, such as Sant'Erasmo or Chioggia, are working communities, and visitors are warned to pay attention to local rhythms.

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Conclusion

The Venetian Lagoon is far more than its three celebrated islands: it's a living world composed of monastic sanctuaries, rural landscapes, archaeological relics, artistic neighbourhoods like Giudecca, seaside outposts like Pellestrina, and historic towns such as Chioggia. 

These quieter islands allow travellers to witness the lagoon's true identity-ecological diversity, spiritual depth, agricultural heritage, and daily life shaped by water.

Slower travelers explore the less-visited islands, are submerged in silence, and establish relationships with locals. Visitors travelling in a respectful, inquisitive way contribute to preserving traditions and natural habitats throughout the lagoon. It's this authentic Venice hidden behind the fame of Murano, Burano Island Venice, and Torcello.