Best Things To Do In Burano, Italy – The Most Colorful Island In Europe (+ map)
Welcome to the charming island of Burano, a place where colors come to life! Nestled in the Venetian Lagoon, Burano is a colorful island that’s like no other. In total, only about 3000 people live on this island, and it is not as famous as some other places in Italy, but it is definitely worth a visit! In this guide to Burano, Italy, I’ll show you the best things to do in Burano.
A Short History Of Burano, Italy
Burano’s story begins many centuries ago when it was founded by fishermen. Legend has it that they painted their houses in various colors to make them stand out in the dense fog, helping them find their way back home after a long day at sea. Today, that tradition lives on, and Burano’s multicolored facades are a signature thing of this city.
How To Get To Burano, Italy And How To Get Around
You can reach Burano in about 45 minutes by taking a water bus called the vaporetto from St. Mark’s Square. To get to Burano quickly, catch the number 12 water bus at Fondamente Nove in the north part of Venice. A water bus runs every 20 – 30 minutes throughout the day. The ride itself is a scenic experience, offering breathtaking views of the lagoon and its islands. Once you arrive on Burano, you’ll find that the best way to explore is on foot. The island is small and easily walkable, allowing you to enjoy it’s charm.
Best Things To Do In Burano, Italy
I’ve created this map featuring all the must-see spots in Burano, Italy, and in this blog post, I’ll take you through each of these locations separately.
• Make sure to pin this guide so you can have all these places for your next trip! ↓
Explore The Colorful Houses
Burano’s streets are a work of art in themselves. As you walk through the Burano’s streets, you’ll notice vibrant houses with blooming flowers, each telling its unique story. It is almost impossible not to fall in love with the colorful houses surrounding you!
From pastels to bold and vibrant hues, Burano’s houses are beautiful to look at. You’ll want to have your camera ready at all times because every turn offers a postcard-perfect view. Burano is a paradise of unique photos waiting to happen. The reflections in the canals, the laundry hanging from colorful windows, and the boats gently rocking in the water create a one of a kind opportunity for taking photos.
Visit The Leaning Bell Tower Of San Martino Church
When you visit Burano make sure to visit the leaning bell tower of San Martino Church. And yes, it leans even more than the renowned tower in Pisa! The Leaning Bell Tower in Burano, made by architect Andrea Tirali between 1703 and 1714, has a square shape and measures 6.20 meters wide at the base and 53 meters tall. Interestingly, it started leaning even while they were building it. The construction took a long time, and during World War II, the leaning got worse. So, in 1970, the City of Venice had to do some special work to make sure it stayed standing straight and safe. This leaning bell tower is a great spot for your Burano adventure and is something you would not want to miss when visiting Burano.
Take A Photo From Love Viewing Bridge
One of the most iconic spots is the Love viewing bridge. Legend has it that if two lovers kiss on this bridge, their love will last forever. It’s a heartwarming tradition that adds a touch of romance to the island’s atmosphere. You can also see the leaning tower from the Love viewing bridge.
Exploring Burano’s charming streets can work up quite an appetite, and this island has some delicious treats to offer. Seafood lovers are in for a treat because Burano is famous for its fresh catches of the day. Local restaurants serve up mouthwatering dishes like risotto al nero di seppia (squid ink risotto) and sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines).
Try Local Seafood At Trattoria Da Romano
If you are visiting Burano make sure to visit Trattoria Da Romano —a charming family-run restaurant that stole my heart! The restaurant’s friendly staff made me feel right at home. Their menu is full of local flavors, with a focus on fresh seafood.
The best part? The view from my table was picture-perfect. It was like dining in a postcard! It’s a place where good food, warm hospitality, and the island’s charm come together for an unforgettable experience.
Visit Lace Museum
The local lace-making tradition, dating back to the 16th century, is another piece of Burano’s rich heritage. Don’t forget to visit the Lace Museum to admire this masterpieces crafted by skilled hand’s.
Take A Walking Tour Of Burano
Exploring Burano on a walking tour was a highlight of my visit! My local guide, who was a Burano native, shared fascinating stories about the island’s history and traditions. As we strolled along the canals and colorful streets, I learned about the fishermen’s heritage and the lace-making tradition that still thrives today. It was like stepping into a living storybook, with every colorful house revealing a piece of Burano’s unique past. The walking tour not only deepened my appreciation for Burano’s culture but also allowed me to connect with the warm-hearted locals. It’s an experience I highly recommend to anyone visiting this charming island.
Visit the main square – Piazza Baldassarre Galuppi
The square is named after the famous composer Galuppi, and there’s a charming statue of him at the center. It’s a great spot to sit and watch the colorful facades of the houses surrounding the main square. The square is also home to some cozy cafes and restaurants, perfect for having a cup of Italian espresso or enjoying a delicious seafood. I couldn’t resist trying a tasteful gelato while taking in the lively atmosphere. Piazza Baldassarre Galuppi is at the heart of Burano’s vibrant culture, and it’s a must-visit spot to immerse yourself in the island’s charm. Whether you’re sipping coffee, enjoying a meal, taking photos, or simply enjoying the view, this square is perfect for it.
Watch The Boats Passing By From The Tre Ponti Bridge
The Tre Ponti Bridge (three bridges) in Burano is a charming little footbridge that connects three parts of Burano. As I walked across the bridge, I couldn’t help but pause to take in the stunning views of the canals. It’s a spot that’s perfect for taking pictures.
What makes the Tre Ponti Bridge even more special is that it offers a peaceful escape from the crowds, and I felt like I had a slice of Burano all to myself. Crossing this bridge was a delightful experience, and it’s one of those charming little moments that add to the magic of Burano.
Shop For Souvenirs At The Local Shops
Exploring the local shops in Burano was one of my favorite parts of my visit. The colorful storefronts, each more charming than the last, showcased a variety of unique souvenirs. From handcrafted lace and vibrant Murano glass to classic souvenirs such as postcards, there was something for everyone. I couldn’t resist picking up a lace tablecloth as a reminder of this beautiful island.
One of the best things about shopping in Burano is the chance to meet the artisans themselves. Many shops are family-owned, and the owners take great pride in their crafts. They’re more than happy to share stories about their creations and the island’s traditions. It’s a personal touch that makes each souvenir feel even more special. Whether you’re looking for a small keepsake or a one-of-a-kind piece of art, Burano’s shops have you covered. Shopping here was not just about acquiring souvenirs but also connecting with the island’s culture and its warm-hearted people.
The People Of Burano
Beyond its colorful facades and delicious cuisine, Burano’s true magic lies in its people. The locals, known as Buranelli, are warm, friendly, and passionate about preserving their island’s heritage. They take great pride in their unique traditions, from lace-making to fishing, and are always happy to share their stories with visitors. I was also able to meet some furry friends here. 🙂
Visit The Torcello Island
If you have time I would recommend a quick visit to Torcello from Burano. My visit to Torcello Island was a step back in time, and I fell in love with its peaceful charm. The boat ride from Burano was a serene journey across the lagoon, offering stunning views of the Venetian landscape. When I arrived on Torcello, I felt like I had discovered a hidden gem. The island’s history dates back over a thousand years, and it was once a thriving center of trade and culture. A place you must visit on this island is a beautiful Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta.
Torcello’s history is truly captivating. At its peak, it was a very important place in Venetian history, with a big population. However, over time, many of the island’s inhabitants moved to Venice and today this island has a population of just 15 people!
Torcello seems to be a place where time stand still, and I couldn’t help but appreciate the history behind every corner of the island. Torcello is a true hidden treasure in the Venetian lagoon, and I’m grateful to have experienced its unique beauty.
When I got back to Burano I was once again amazed by it’s beauty. Burano is not just an island; it’s a work of art, a living painting that invites you to step inside and become part of its vibrant canvas. From its rich history to its rainbow streets, Burano is a treasure waiting to be explored.
When you visit Burano you’ll discover the heart and soul of this island in its squares and hidden corners. It’s a place where time seems to slow down, allowing you to enjoy in every moment. So, whether you’re an art enthusiast, a foodie, or simply someone seeking to discover new places, Burano is a destination that will leave a mark on your heart.
And as I said goodbye to this magical island, I’ll carry with me not just memories and photos, but a piece of its colorful spirit—a reminder that beauty comes in all shades of the rainbow.
