11 Best Things To Do in Burano Island 🇮🇹: Visit Burano Top Attractions

Welcome to your ultimate guide to Burano—Venice’s most colorful secret! If you’re dreaming of wandering canals lined with rainbow-bright houses, tasting fresh seafood, and discovering the real heart of the Venetian lagoon, you’re in the right place. I’ve explored every corner of this charming island and packed this guide with everything you need to know before you go.

🏡 Where to stay in Burano:

• 💎 Luxury Hotel: Venissa Wine Resort
• 🏨 4-Star: TIFFANY GOLD
• 🛏️ 3-Star: Casa Burano · Ca' Nova
• 🏢 Apartments: Pink Paradise
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families: Tiffany Home
• 🏩 For Couples: Casa sul Cielo di Burano

👩🏻 Best guided tours:

• The Secret Corners of Burano from € 29 (⭐️4.8/5)
• Vibrant Charm: Professional Photoshoot at Burano from € 99 (⭐️5.0/5)
• Tour of the hidden lagoon of Burano on a local Boat from € 39 (⭐️4.9/5)
• Venice In a Day: Basilica San Marco, Doges Palace & Gondola ride from € 129 (⭐️4.9/5)
• Murano: Glass Factory Experience with Tour and Demonstration from € 12 (⭐️4.6/5)

Best Things to Do in Burano

1. Località Burano

Colorful wonderland. As I stepped off the vaporetto onto Burano’s main dock, I was immediately struck by the kaleidoscope of vibrant houses that make this tiny island in the Venetian Lagoon so famous. Located about 7 km from San Marco Square, Burano is actually an archipelago of 4 islands linked by bridges, creating one of the 10 most colorful places in the world. Walking through the narrow streets lined with rainbow-colored facades was like stepping into a real-life painting – each house painted in bright hues of blue, red, yellow, and green.

Photography paradise. The main street, Via Galuppi (also called Calle Galuppi), offers endless photo opportunities with its shops and cafes. But the real magic happens when you venture into the quieter side streets where local life unfolds against the backdrop of these technicolor homes. I discovered that residents must get permission from authorities before painting their houses – a tradition that dates back to when fishermen painted their homes in bright colors to spot them through the fog when returning from sea. Casa di Bepi, the island’s most famous and uniquely decorated house with geometric patterns, is an absolute must-photograph spot.

Authentic island life. Despite being a popular day trip destination from Venice, Burano maintains its authentic charm with around 2,700 residents spread across five neighborhoods: San Martino Destro, San Martino Sinistro, San Mauro, Giucecca, and Terranova.

⭐ Best activities

• The Secret Corners of Burano – Get a local’s perspective on one of the Venetian Lagoon’s most enchanting islands with a one-hour tour of Burano. Learn the history and unique customs of the UNESCO World Heritage–listed locale from a guide born and raised on the island. Admire colorful fishermen’s homes, visit landmarks like a leaning church bell tower, and see how famous Burano lace is made with a live demonstration. After the tour, linger as long as you like with recommendations from your guide on the best places to shop, dine, and explore.

2. San Martino Church

Leaning landmark. The Chiesa di San Martino (Church of St. Martin the Bishop) stands proudly in Piazza Baldassarre Galuppi, Burano’s main square. What makes this 16th-century church truly distinctive is its leaning bell tower – Il Campanile Storto – which tilts at about 3% from its axis due to the soft, marshy ground beneath. While not as famous as the Leaning Tower of Pisa (which leans at nearly 4%), it’s become an iconic symbol of Burano. I found the best viewing spots at Terranova’s marble bridge and from Fondamenta della Guidecca.

Artistic treasures. Entering through the side Renaissance door near the Chapel of Santa Barbara (the church has no main entrance), I discovered an interior that follows a traditional Latin cross layout with three naves separated by neoclassical pillars. The red and white stone flooring creates a striking contrast with the modest Lombard-Baroque style architecture. The high altar, features refined columns of red French marble and ancient oriental marble, crowned by a bronze statue of the “Risen Christ.” But the true highlight is Giambattista Tiepolo’s early work, “The Crucifixion,” which hangs inside – a powerful painting that adds emotional depth to this serene space.

Insider Tip: Visit the church in the late afternoon when the light streams through the narrow windows, illuminating Tiepolo’s masterpiece in a particularly beautiful way. Also, be respectful during prayer times – this is still an active place of worship.

⭐ Best activities

• Vibrant Charm: Professional Photoshoot at Burano – What makes this tour unique is the opportunity to explore Burano’s enchanting streets with a professional photographer, ensuring every angle captures the island’s charm and your personality. Whether it’s a playful family shoot, a romantic couple’s session, or solo portraits, Burano’s colorful character and quaint beauty provide a one-of-a-kind setting that guarantees unforgettable, high-quality images.

3. Tre Ponti

Architectural marvel. Tre Ponti (Three Bridges) is one of Burano’s most ingenious structures and a highlight of my island exploration. This unique bridge sits at the junction of three islands, connecting them through three separate staircases – hence its name. Located at the intersection of three canals, Tre Ponti offers visitors a 360° panoramic view of Burano’s colorful houses reflected in the water below. I reached it by walking straight across Viale Marcello from the main pier, and the moment I stood at its center, I understood why it’s considered one of the island’s most photogenic spots.

Photographic goldmine. From the top of Tre Ponti, I captured some of my most stunning photos of Burano. The bridge provides unobstructed views of the most colorful and mesmerizing streets on the island, with vibrant houses lining the canals in every direction. The contrast between the azure water and the rainbow-colored buildings creates a postcard-perfect scene that’s hard to beat. Professional photographers often gather here during the golden hour when the setting sun bathes the colorful facades in warm light, creating magical reflections in the canals.

Budget Tip: Visit Tre Ponti early in the morning to avoid crowds and capture the best photos without other tourists in your frame. The morning light also creates beautiful reflections on the canal waters.

⭐ Best activities

• Tour of the hidden lagoon of Burano on a local Boat – If you have arrived in Burano, you can not miss an excursion with a small boat between the marshlands and the fishermen’s canals. Not only to understand Venice and the lagoon itself, but also to see the colors of Burano from afar, like the ancient fishermen. From the boat you will be able to see the oldest church in all of Venice, the natural islands, the hidden canals of Torcello, and the Franciscan monastery founded by Francis of Assisi

4. Terranova’s Marble Bridge

Hidden gem. Away from the main tourist paths, I discovered Terranova’s marble bridge – a lesser-known but equally charming spot in Burano. This elegant white marble structure spans one of the island’s three main channels, Rio Terranova, connecting the neighborhood of Terranova with the rest of Burano. Unlike the more famous Tre Ponti, this bridge often sees fewer visitors, making it perfect for those seeking a quieter experience. The smooth, pale marble creates a striking contrast against the colorful houses that line the canal, offering a different aesthetic from the typical Burano scenes.

Perfect vantage point. What makes Terranova’s marble bridge special is that it provides one of the best views of San Martino Church’s leaning bell tower. Standing on this bridge, I had an unobstructed view of the 53-meter-high campanile with its 3% tilt. Before 1867, the tower was crowned with an angel statue, but after it collapsed during a heavy storm, it was replaced with the iron cross visible today. The perspective from the bridge perfectly frames the tower against the backdrop of colorful houses, creating a composition that captures Burano’s unique charm in a single image.

Local life unfolds. While admiring the views from Terranova’s marble bridge, I watched as local life unfolded around me. Fishermen returned with their daily catch, elderly residents chatted on benches nearby, and laundry fluttered from windows like colorful flags.

Things to Do in Burano with Kids

1. Lace Museum

Hands-on history. Taking my niece and nephew to the Museo del Merletto (Lace Museum) turned out to be surprisingly engaging for them. Located in the historic Scuola dei Merletti (Lace School) building on Piazza Galuppi, this museum showcases Burano’s centuries-old lace-making tradition that dates back to the 1500s. The children were mesmerized watching elderly local women demonstrating the intricate needle-and-thread techniques, their fingers moving with practiced precision over delicate patterns. The demonstrations happen daily from 12:30-2:30 PM, and the ladies were patient in showing my curious 8-year-old how to hold the tools.

Interactive exhibits. What made this museum kid-friendly was its collection of touchable samples and magnifying glasses that let the children examine the incredibly fine details of antique lace pieces. The museum houses over 200 precious examples of Venetian lace from the 16th to 20th centuries, displayed in chronological order. My nephew particularly enjoyed the video showing how a single piece of complex lace could take months to complete. The museum is compact enough (just two floors) that kids don’t get bored, and the staff provided a simple scavenger hunt sheet that kept them engaged throughout our visit.

⭐ Best activities

• Lace Museum (Museo del Merletto): Entry ticket – If you wanted a no-frills adventure in Venice, this is not it. Explore the art of Venetian lace from the 16th to the 20th century at the Lace Museum and learn about the art of tatting (also known as lace)!

2. Colourful Bricked Houses

Rainbow treasure hunt. Turning Burano’s famous colored houses into a game transformed our family visit. I created a simple color scavenger hunt where the kids had to find houses in specific shades and take photos. “Find a house that matches your blue t-shirt!” or “Spot the brightest yellow on the island!” kept them engaged for hours. We discovered that each color scheme follows strict regulations – homeowners must get government approval before painting their properties, maintaining a specific palette that dates back centuries when fishermen painted their homes in bright colors to find them through dense fog.

Stories behind colors. The children were fascinated to learn that each vibrant hue tells a story about the family who lives there. We visited the famous Casa di Bepi (Bepi’s House) on Via al Gottolo, with its unique geometric patterns in multiple colors that stand out even on this rainbow island. The kids invented stories about why Bepi chose such an unusual design. At another location, an elderly resident sitting outside her bright turquoise home shared (through my basic Italian and her gestures) how her family has maintained the same color for four generations, repainting every few years to keep the vibrant shade from fading in the lagoon sun.

Free Things to Do in Burano

1. Walk Burano’s Canals

Colorful reflections. Walking along Burano’s canals costs absolutely nothing yet delivers the island’s most magical experiences. During my early morning stroll, I discovered that the best canal views are along Via Giudecca and near the Tre Ponti bridge, where three waterways converge. The still morning water created perfect mirror images of the rainbow-colored houses – doubled beauty for zero euros! I noticed how each home’s vibrant paint job contrasted with its neighbors, creating a photographer’s paradise that changes with the light throughout the day.

Local rhythms. By mid-morning, I watched fishermen return with their catches, heading toward the small open-air Fish Market on San Martino Sinistra island. Following them led me to discover this authentic spot where locals purchase fresh seafood displayed on about twenty stalls. The vendors called out their prices in Italian, and even though I couldn’t understand everything, the atmosphere was infectious. Don’t confuse this with Pescaderia Vecia on Giudecca island, which serves a similar purpose but attracts more tourists.

Tip: Instead of paying €25-35 for a guided walking tour, create your own route using the free maps available at the vaporetto station. The island is small enough to explore in 2-3 hours, and getting “lost” in the colorful back streets often leads to the most memorable discoveries.

2. Torre dell’acquedotto

Brick landmark. The Torre dell’acquedotto (Water Tower) stands in stark contrast to Burano’s colorful houses with its all-brick construction. Located in the northern part of the island, this functional structure once served as the community’s water source. During my visit last week, I was struck by how this utilitarian tower has become a beloved landmark, visible from numerous vantage points across Burano. Its reddish-brown bricks create a beautiful counterpoint to the pastel-painted homes surrounding it, especially when photographed from the nearby canals.

Historical significance. Before the tower’s construction, Burano residents collected rainwater through an ingenious system of underground shafts. The water was filtered through sand of varying coarseness before collecting in a central basin. Walking around the tower, I imagined generations of islanders gathering here for their daily water needs. Though no longer functional, the tower remains an important reminder of Burano’s practical ingenuity and community-centered design. Unlike many attractions that charge entry fees, you can admire this historical structure completely free of charge.

Photography hotspot. I discovered that the best photos of the Torre dell’acquedotto come from positioning yourself along the northern canals where you can capture both the brick tower and colorful houses in a single frame. The morning light (around 9-11 AM) illuminates the eastern side beautifully, while afternoon sun (3-5 PM) creates a warm glow on its western facade.

Seasonal Activities

Christmas

Festive illuminations. Burano transforms during December with twinkling lights reflecting in the canals, creating magical mirror images of the already colorful houses. Last Christmas, I watched local families hang handmade decorations featuring lace patterns – a nod to the island’s famous craft. The main street, Via Baldassarre Galuppi, becomes particularly enchanting with light displays strung between buildings. Unlike Venice’s crowded Christmas markets, Burano’s celebrations feel intimate and authentic, with locals gathering in Piazza Galuppi around 6 PM for mulled wine and seasonal treats.

Presepi tradition. Walking through Burano’s narrow streets in December, I discovered handcrafted nativity scenes (presepi) displayed in windows and small squares. The most elaborate one appears annually in San Martino Church, featuring miniature Burano-style colored houses as the backdrop for the traditional nativity figures. Created by local artisans, these displays often incorporate elements of island life – tiny fishing boats and lace details. The church’s presepe is unveiled during the First Sunday of Advent (typically late November) and remains until January 6th (Epiphany).

Winter gastronomy. Christmas brings special seasonal dishes to Burano’s restaurants and bakeries. At Panificio Palmisano on Via San Mauro, I tasted their Christmas bussolai – the traditional Burano cookies made with a special holiday recipe including cinnamon and orange zest. For a proper meal, Trattoria al Gatto Nero serves a traditional Christmas menu featuring baccalà mantecato (creamed cod) and risotto di gò – local specialties that have been prepared the same way for generations. Reservations are essential as the restaurant only has 12 tables.

Summer

Festival della Laguna. Every July (typically the second weekend), Burano hosts this vibrant celebration of lagoon culture. I joined locals last summer as they decorated their boats with colorful streamers for the water parade that circles the island. Starting at 5 PM from the main canal, dozens of decorated vessels create a floating carnival atmosphere. Later, in Piazza Galuppi, traditional folk dancing performances begin around 8 PM, accompanied by local musicians playing accordion and guitar.

Evening photography. Summer brings extended daylight hours, with sunset occurring around 9 PM in June and July. This creates a photographer’s “golden hour” that lasts longer and happens when most day-trippers have left the island. During my evening walks last June, I captured stunning photos of the colorful houses bathed in warm light with almost no other tourists in frame. The best spots included the quiet back canals near Via Giudecca and the northern viewpoints near the water tower.

Outdoor dining. Summer transforms Burano’s restaurants as they expand onto canal-side terraces. At Ristorante Galuppi, I enjoyed their seafood risotto at a table right beside the water, watching boats glide by as the evening cooled. For a more budget-friendly option, I discovered that Bar Palmisano offers simple cicchetti (Venetian tapas) for €1.50-3 each that you can take away and enjoy while sitting along the canal edges – a perfect impromptu picnic as the sun sets.

Spring

Lace Festival. The highlight of Burano’s spring calendar is the annual Festa del Merletto (Lace Festival), held in late April. During my visit last spring, I watched lace-making competitions where artisans demonstrated techniques passed down through generations. The festival centers around the Lace Museum, which offers free entry during the weekend event. In Piazza Galuppi, temporary stalls sell authentic handmade lace pieces starting from €30 for small items like bookmarks or handkerchiefs.

Blooming balconies. Spring transforms Burano’s already colorful facades with the addition of flowering window boxes and balcony gardens. Walking through the narrow streets in April, I noticed how local residents take pride in their geraniums, petunias, and trailing ivy that cascade down the vibrant walls. This creates an even more photogenic scene than usual, with natural colors complementing the painted houses. The best displays appear along Via San Mauro and the smaller side streets off Via Baldassarre Galuppi, where residents compete informally for the most beautiful floral arrangements.

Easter traditions. Visiting during Easter week provides insight into Burano’s religious traditions. On Good Friday, I joined locals for the solemn procession that winds through the island’s narrow streets, starting from San Martino Church around 8 PM. Easter Sunday brings a more festive atmosphere, with special pastries appearing in Burano’s bakeries. At Pasticceria Costantini, I tried their traditional fugassa veneta for €4.50 – a sweet bread studded with almonds and sugar crystals that locals enjoy after Mass.

Autumn

Harvest traditions. Autumn brings a quieter, more authentic atmosphere to Burano as tourist numbers decrease significantly after September. During my October visit, I noticed how the island returns to its fishing village roots. Local restaurants shift their menus to feature autumn specialties like seppie in nero (cuttlefish in its ink) and risotto di zucca (pumpkin risotto). At Trattoria da Romano, their seasonal seafood platter showcased the freshest catches from the lagoon – a reminder that Burano remains a working fishing community despite its tourist appeal.

Feast of San Martino. November 11th marks the Feast of San Martino, Burano’s patron saint and a significant celebration for islanders. I joined locals as they gathered in Piazza Galuppi for the unveiling of special San Martino cookies – large, sweet biscuits shaped like the saint on horseback. Children receive these treats and parade through town carrying lanterns they’ve made at school. The celebration continues into the evening with local wine and traditional songs at the small bars around the square.

Foggy mystique. Autumn mornings often bring a light fog that shrouds Burano in mystery. During these atmospheric conditions, I experienced the island as fishermen would have centuries ago – colorful houses emerging from the mist as navigation markers. This natural phenomenon creates extraordinary photography opportunities, especially from 7-9 AM before the fog burns off.

Day Trips from Burano

1. Venice

Return to the main island. Taking vaporetto Line 12 from Burano to Fondamente Nove takes 45 minutes with stunning lagoon views. I timed my return for 4:30 PM when the setting sun cast a golden glow across Venice’s skyline. The approach from water provides a perspective that land-bound tourists never experience – Venice rising majestically from the lagoon.

Venice beyond the crowds. In Venice, I skipped St. Mark’s Square and wandered through quieter Cannaregio district. At Bacaro da Fiore on Calle del Scaleter, I enjoyed cicchetti for just €2-3 per piece – a fraction of tourist area prices. Their baccalà mantecato on polenta was delicious. The quiet canals lined with hanging laundry reminded me of Burano but with distinctive Venetian architecture.

Evening magic. After 7 PM, St. Mark’s Square becomes nearly empty. The basilica’s mosaics glitter under evening lights, and cafes become more relaxed. I enjoyed a spritz at Caffè Florian while listening to their live orchestra (€6 music charge). Though not budget-friendly, sipping a drink in Italy’s oldest cafe while classical music plays creates unforgettable memories.

⭐ Best activities

• Tour: Venice In a Day: Basilica San Marco, Doges Palace & Gondola ride – Ideal for first-time visitors, this full-day tour of Venice checks off all the most-important attractions. Stroll across the Rialto Bridge and browse the lively Rialto fish market, then hop aboard a traditional gondola for a romantic cruise along the Grand Canal. Finally, visit St. Marks’s Basilica and enjoy skip-the-line entrance to the grandiose Doge’s Palace.
• Ticket online: Doge's Palace: Fast Track Ticket – Travel back in time and uncover the history and culture of La Serenissima with a visit to the imposing, yet elegant, Doge’s Palace in Venice.

2. Murano

Glass island exploration. Just 10 minutes from Burano on Line 12, Murano offers a completely different experience focused on world-famous glassmaking. At Vetreria Artistica Colleoni, I watched master glassblowers transform molten glass into intricate sculptures. The 20-minute demonstration was free, though browsing their showroom afterward is expected. Their prices were reasonable – a small glass animal cost €15 ($16.20) compared to €25+ in Venice shops.

Beyond the glass factories. Away from factory areas, I discovered Murano’s charming canals and quieter residential zones. The Lighthouse of Murano offers spectacular views toward Burano’s colorful skyline. At Campo Santo Stefano, I admired the unusual Comet Glass Star sculpture and the Church of Santa Maria e San Donato with its stunning 12th-century Byzantine mosaic floor. Most visitors rush through in an hour, but half a day exploring quieter corners proved worthwhile.

Artisan workshops. The highlight was finding smaller, independent glass studios. At Davide Fuin’s workshop on Fondamenta Manin, I watched him craft delicate goblets using traditional techniques. These boutique studios welcome visitors without pressure to buy. For hands-on experience, Abate Zanetti Glass School offers workshops where visitors create their own glass piece for €70 ($75.60) – connecting directly to this ancient Venetian art form.

⭐ Best activities

• Murano: Glass Factory Experience with Tour and Demonstration – Enjoy a guided tour of a glass factory on the island of Murano See a glass-blowing demonstration by a glass master and discover the craft firsthand.

3. Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta

Torcello’s ancient treasure. The Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta on Torcello represents the oldest structure in the Venetian lagoon, dating to 639 AD. I took vaporetto Line 9 from Burano to visit this Byzantine church. Inside, the massive 11th-century mosaic of the Last Judgment covers the west wall – a glittering masterpiece of gold tesserae depicting Christ separating the blessed from the damned.

Artistic wonders. The basilica holds treasures rivaling Venice’s famous churches. The stunning Virgin Hodegetria in the central apse dates to the 12th century. Unlike crowded Venetian churches, here I sat in peaceful contemplation on ancient stone benches. Natural light filters through alabaster window panels, creating an ethereal glow across the ancient stones.

Historical significance. Fascinating elements include the marble iconostasis (altar screen) and the mysterious “Throne of Attila” in the adjacent square – actually an ancient stone chair used by Torcello’s bishops. The bell tower offers panoramic lagoon views. This magnificent church stands almost alone on a nearly abandoned island – fewer than 20 permanent residents remain on Torcello, making the basilica seem like a time capsule from Venice’s earliest days.

❓ FAQ

How do I get to Burano from Venice?

The only way to get to Burano from Venice is by boat. The most popular option is the public vaporetto (water bus) from Fondamente Nove, which takes about 45 minutes. You can also book a private water taxi from Venice to Burano, but this is much more expensive—around €130 ($138) each way.

Can I visit Murano and Burano in one day?

Yes! A day trip from Venice to Murano and Burano is very popular and easy to do. Many tours also include the nearby island of Torcello. You can take the vaporetto or join a guided excursion to see all three islands in a single day.

What is Burano famous for?

Burano is famous for its colorful houses, authentic Burano lace, and its small-town island atmosphere. The tradition of lace making by the women of the island dates back to the 16th century and is still alive today.

What is the Burano Lace Museum?

The Burano Lace Museum (Museo del Merletto) is located in the historic Podestà Palace. Here, you can learn about the history of Burano lace, see beautiful examples, and sometimes watch local women making lace by hand.

Is Burano worth visiting?

Absolutely! Burano is one of the most colorful places in Italy and a photographer’s dream. The island’s peaceful vibe, unique history, and vibrant houses make it a must-see during your trip to Venice.

How much time should I spend in Burano?

You can see the highlights of Burano in 2–3 hours, but many travelers recommend spending half a day to enjoy the island’s quiet streets, visit the lace museum, and try local seafood. If you stay overnight, you’ll experience the island without the daytime crowds.

Can I stay overnight on Burano?

Yes, there are a few options for staying overnight on Burano island, like Casa Burano. Staying overnight lets you enjoy the peaceful atmosphere after most tourists leave for Venice.

What are the best things to do in Burano?

Explore the colorful streets of Burano, visit the Lace Museum, see the leaning tower of Burano, and enjoy a meal at one of the local restaurants. Don’t miss the Tre Ponti bridge and the main square in the center of Burano.

Is Burano good for a day trip from Venice?

Yes, a day trip to Burano is one of the best things to do in Venice. The island is small, easy to explore on foot, and offers a nice break from the busy city.