Colorful fishing village in the Venetian Lagoon, known for its brightly painted houses and traditional lace-making craft. Home to the leaning bell tower of San Martino.
Burano, a small island in the Venetian Lagoon, is known for its brightly painted houses and lacemaking tradition. Located a 45-minute boat ride from Venice, this fishing village gives you a glimpse into local life away from the busy city center. You'll find narrow canals, a leaning bell tower, and restaurants serving fresh seafood. Visit the Lace Museum, watch artisans create intricate designs, or try the local risotto de gò as you explore this colorful island.
Burano's Colorful Houses
When you arrive in Burano by vaporetto, you'll immediately notice the array of colors adorning the houses. Each building is painted in a different shade - from pink and blue to green and yellow. This custom originated when Burano was primarily a fishing village. Fishermen painted their homes in bright colors to identify them easily when returning from sea in foggy conditions. Today, the government regulates house painting to maintain the island's characteristic appearance. As you walk through the narrow streets, you'll encounter numerous photo-worthy scenes.
Lacemaking Tradition
Burano is renowned for its handmade lace, a craft practiced on the island since the 16th century. Traditional Burano lace is created using only a needle and thread, without a loom or other tools. Completing a single piece can take months or even years, with different artisans specializing in specific stitches. While many shops now sell machine-made lace, you can still find authentic handmade pieces in some specialty stores. Be prepared for high prices for genuine handmade lace, reflecting the time and skill required for its creation.
Getting to Burano
To reach Burano from Venice, take vaporetto (water bus) line 12 from the Fondamente Nove stop. The journey lasts about 45 minutes and provides views of the lagoon. Boats depart frequently, usually every half hour. Purchase tickets at the vaporetto stop or use a tourist travel card if you have one. A standard ACTV ticket costs €7.50 for a single journey or €20 for a 24-hour pass, which includes the trip to Burano. If you plan to visit multiple islands, a day pass might offer better value.
Local Cuisine
Burano's food reflects its fishing village heritage. Many restaurants serve seafood caught daily in the lagoon. Try risotto de gò, a creamy rice dish made with goby fish broth, which exemplifies the island's straightforward yet flavorful cooking style. For dessert, taste bussolà , a traditional S-shaped butter cookie that goes well with an afternoon espresso. For a memorable meal, consider Trattoria al Gatto Nero, a family-run restaurant known for its seafood dishes and welcoming atmosphere.
