Boats of Venice

Explore the Islands of Venice by Vaporetto, Venice

Overview

Venice’s historic and unique city center comprises more than 100 islands, meaning that the best way to get around is by boat. On the canals, you’ll see a mixture of motorboats, gondolas, and the city's unique "water buses," known as Vaporetto. There are different types of Vaporetto, and each operates a different route. They’re mostly used by locals commuting from outside Venice into the city or travelers hopping between islands. 

Make the most out of your time in Venice by navigating the city like a local using this convenient and affordable boat service!

What to Visit:

Escape the crowds of Venice and enjoy a full-day excursion into the peace and tranquility of the Venetian Lagoon. Explore five ancient islands only accessible by boat, including the always-popular Murano and Burano. Here you’ll find the authentic local culture of Venice still vibrantly on display.

Start with a boat ride from central Venice to the monastery on San Francesco del Deserto Island. Tour the gardens with one of the friars, then zip over to Burano to explore the island's famous, brightly-colored houses, which have been the home of Venice’s legendary lace makers since the 16th century. Burano is an excellent spot to find an authentic place for lunch. 

Next, pop into the hidden vineyards of the tiny island of Mazzorbo to taste wine locals have produced since the 14th century. Then make your way to the island of Torcello, home to Venice's oldest church, where you can climb to the top of its spectacular dome. Your final stop is Murano, home of Europe’s most respected glassmakers. Artisans have been producing world-renowned "Murano glass" since the 13th century. You can peruse numerous shops selling the art or watch a glassmaker in action.

Read more about unique and interesting activities in Venice.

Itineraries with Explore the Islands of Venice by Vaporetto

Food & Wine in Bologna, Venice, Verona, Milan & Turin - 13 Days

This 13-day itinerary will leave you feeling like a local, as you discover and become expert in great food and wine in Northern Italy. Begin with a guided tour through the markets in Bologna and taste handmade tortellini pasta and sweet treats. In Venice, spend a self-guided day on the lagoon islands of Murano and Burano, then go wine tasting in Verona and the Piedmont countryside. Take a cooking class and mix aperitivo cocktails in Milan before rounding off your culinary adventure in Turin with a street food walking tour.

Rome, Florence, Verona & Venice - 9 Days

This scenic train journey through Italy covers four cities in nine days, starting in Rome, where you'll walk through the historic core and visit the Vatican. Then make your to Florence to see Michelangelo's masterpieces and get firsthand lessons in Tuscan cuisine and wine. End the trip in UNESCO-listed Verona, home of a first-century amphitheater and Shakespeare's favorite balcony. You'll also have a day in Venice to boat through the canals for the ultimate adventure.

Highlights of Venice, Verona & Lake Garda - 9 Days

Beginning in Venice, this 9-day trip will take you through the highlights of the Veneto region of Northern Italy. Visit the main sights of the 'Floating City' on a guided tour of St. Mark's Square and the Doge's Palace, and take time to discover the islands of Murano, Torcello, and Burano. The city of Verona is a UNESCO World Heritage Site packed with beautiful, historic attractions. See Casa di Giulietta, the house which inspired Shakespeare's Romeo & Juliet, and learn how to cook homemade pasta. Experience tranquility on Lake Garda as you hop by boat between the villages of Sirmione, Desenzano del Garda, and Malcesine.

Northeast Italy: Trieste, Grado & Venice - 9 Days

Uncover Roman history on this 9-day trip to Northeast Italy. Tour the cosmopolitan city of Trieste, including the important Piazza Unità d'Italia. Take a day trip to the gorgeous Lake Bled in Slovenia before moving on to Grado, a picturesque beach town steeped in ancient history. Tour beautiful and historical architecture with a local guide in Venice, including the Doge's Palace, and St. Mark's Square. End your trip with a visit to the islands of Murano and Burano on a self-guided day trip.