As I stepped off the vaporetto and onto Burano’s shores, the first thing that greeted me was a kaleidoscope of colour, unlike anything I’d seen before.
The island, a vibrant gem in the dreamy Venetian Lagoon, seemed to burst with life. Its houses were painted in every shade imaginable—vivid yellows, deep blues, and bright pinks—and lined up along narrow canals. The effect was mesmerising, like stepping into a Venetian postcard where each building competed to outshine the next.
This kaleidoscope of colours isn’t just for show; it reflects Burano’s enduring spirit and a tradition that has been carefully preserved over centuries.
Legend has it that the fishermen who initially settled here painted their homes in bright hues so they could be easily seen through the thick fog that often blankets the beautiful Venetian lagoon.
Beyond the eye-catching facades, Burano is a place steeped in history. The island has long been celebrated for its handmade lace, which once adorned the wardrobes of Europe’s aristocracy.
These delicate creations, painstakingly made by local women, were once the island’s pride, with techniques passed down through generations.
Today, while a few artisans still practice the craft, much of the lace sold in Burano’s shops is imported a sign of changing times. Yet, this hasn’t deterred the influx of visitors who come to experience the island’s unique and colourful charm.
Unlike Venice, which can feel overwhelming with its endless streams of tourists, Burano offers a welcome respite, especially in the off-season. The island transforms as dusk falls, and the last boat of day-trippers departs for the mainland.
The once-busy streets become quiet, the colours of the houses deepen in the soft evening light, and the true essence of Burano reveals itself—a peaceful, almost otherworldly place where time seems to stand still, offering a rare glimpse of tranquillity just a short ride away from the bustling heart of Venice.
What is Burano known for?
Before Burano became famous for its vibrant, rainbow-coloured houses, it was renowned for a much more delicate art form: lace. This small island in the Venetian Lagoon gained international acclaim in the 16th century for producing some of the most exquisite lacework Europe had ever seen.
Burano lace wasn’t merely decorative; it symbolised status and refinement, gracing the wardrobes of European nobility from royal courts to the bourgeois elite.
Lacemaking on Burano was a labour of love passed down through generations. Women would gather in small groups, their hands deftly working needles and threads to create intricate patterns.
Each piece was a masterpiece, requiring countless hours to complete. This craft became the island’s lifeblood, elevating Burano to a position of cultural and economic significance.
However, the advent of industrialisation and changing fashion trends posed serious challenges. Machine-made lace became more prevalent, leading to a decline in demand for the painstakingly handmade variety. By the 19th century, the industry that had once defined Burano was in jeopardy.
Despite these challenges, the island’s dedication to preserving its heritage endured. In 1872, a lacemaking school was established on the island to revive the tradition. Although this initiative succeeded in keeping the craft alive, the global market for handmade lace had dwindled.
Today, while the island still has a few skilled artisans who continue to practice this time-honoured craft, much of the lace sold in Burano’s shops is imported. Nonetheless, the island’s historical connection to lace remains a source of pride and is celebrated in the Museo del Merletto (Lace Museum).
Housed in the former lacemaking school, the museum offers visitors a glimpse into the intricate world of Burano lace, showcasing both historical pieces and modern interpretations. It’s a place where the legacy of Burano’s lacework lives, a testament to the island’s rich cultural heritage.
A Palette of Colors Like No Other
Beyond its history, Burano’s most striking feature today is its architecture. The island’s cutesy houses are famously painted in vibrant colours, creating a patchwork of colour that photographers love.
The tradition of painting houses in bright colours is said to have originated with the island’s fishermen, who wanted to easily spot their homes from afar while out at sea. Whether or not this is true, the result is undeniably enchanting.
The houses, painted in shades ranging from rich reds and sunny yellows to deep blues and greens, create a visual symphony that is both harmonious and lively.
This colourful tradition is not just a matter of personal preference; the local government regulates it. Homeowners wishing to repaint must submit their chosen colour scheme for approval, ensuring Burano’s unique aesthetic remains intact.
Despite the influx of snap-happy tourists, Burano’s residents maintain a strong sense of identity and pride in their heritage, reflected in the care and attention given to preserving the island’s distinctive appearance.
Discovering Burano: What to Do
A visit to Burano offers more than just picturesque views; it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the island’s rich culture and traditions. Begin your exploration at the Museo del Merletto, where you can delve into the history of lacemaking.
The museum is a treasure trove of delicate artistry, featuring an impressive collection of lace pieces and exhibits detailing the painstaking techniques used by the island’s artisans. It’s a fascinating look into a craft that once defined the island and continues to be a point of pride.
To taste local life, wander through the Piazza Baldassarre Galuppi, the island’s main square. Named after the famous 18th-century composer born on the island, the square is the heart of Burano, surrounded by shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Here, you can watch lace-makers at work, their hands moving with practised precision as they create intricate patterns passed down through generations. It’s a tangible connection to Burano’s storied past.
Trattoria al Gatto Nero is a must-visit if you want to indulge in the island’s delicious culinary offerings. This family-run restaurant has been serving traditional Venetian dishes for decades, focusing on fresh, locally sourced seafood.
The risotto di go, made with goby fish from the lagoon, stands out. The restaurant’s warm, welcoming atmosphere makes it the perfect place to relax and savour the region’s flavours.
As you explore further, visit the Chiesa di San Martino, the island’s historic parish church. Its leaning bell tower is one of Burano’s most recognisable landmarks, offering a unique photo opportunity.
Inside, the church houses several significant artworks, including a painting by Giambattista Tiepolo, one of Venice’s most celebrated artists. The church provides a quiet space for reflection, away from the bustling streets outside.
For those interested in local crafts beyond lace, Burano is known for its hand-painted ceramics. Small shops dotting the island offer a variety of these colourful pieces, which make for a perfect souvenir to take home. Each item is uniquely crafted, reflecting the vibrant spirit of the island.
An Evening on Burano: A Different Perspective
Burano transforms as the day draws to a close and the last of the tourists board their boats back to Venice. The buzzing energy of the day gives way to a tranquil, almost surreal atmosphere.
The setting sun casts a golden glow over the island, enhancing the houses’ already vibrant colours. Reflections in the canals become even more pronounced, creating a perfect mirror image.
Stroll along the quiet streets, where the only sounds are the gentle hum of cicadas and the occasional clink of glasses from a nearby trattoria.
In these moments, away from the crowds, Burano reveals its true charm—a place where time slows down and the colourful streets are filled with locals rather than chattering tourists.
Now bathed in the soft light of dusk, the island feels like an entirely different world—this is the best time to be here.
Practicalities: How to Get There and When to Visit
Burano is easily accessible from Venice, making it an ideal day trip destination for those looking to escape the city’s crowded streets. The island is a short 40-minute vaporetto (water bus) ride from Venice, with routes departing regularly from the Fondamente Nove stop.
The scenic journey offers views of the lagoon and its surrounding islands and provides a tranquil transition from Venice’s lively canal-lined streets to Burano’s serene beauty.
While Burano is a year-round destination, the best time to visit is spring or autumn when the weather is mild and the crowds are thinner. Visiting early morning or late afternoon will allow you to experience Burano when the daytrippers have yet to arrive or have departed.
The island takes on a different character in these quieter hours, allowing you to fully appreciate its charm without the press of tourists.
If you’re staying in Venice, consider combining your trip to Burano with visits to the nearby islands of Murano and Torcello, both of which offer unique attractions.
Murano is famous for its glass-making tradition, while Torcello is known for its ancient churches and peaceful atmosphere. Together, these islands provide a comprehensive look at the Venetian lagoon’s diverse culture and history.
Getting to Venice
To reach Venice from the UK, direct flights are available from London Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, and Luton, with airlines like British Airways, easyJet, Ryanair, and Wizz Air. Flights take around 2 hours and arrive at either Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE) or Treviso Airport (TSF).
You can take a scenic water taxi from Venice Marco Polo Airport, the affordable Alilaguna water bus, or a bus to Piazzale Roma. If arriving at Treviso Airport, an ATVO shuttle bus connects directly to Venice.
To get from Venice to Burano, take the vaporetto (water bus) Route 12 from Fondamente Nove, a 40-minute ride across the lagoon costing around €7.50. Alternatively, you can hire a private water taxi or join a guided boat tour with Burano, Murano, and Torcello. Once on Burano, the island’s colourful streets are easily explored on foot.