Burano Island

Burano is a small island in the northern Venetian lagoon, in Italy's Veneto region, about 40 minutes by vaporetto from Fondamente Nove in Venice. It is known for its rows of brightly painted fishermen's houses, in vivid reds, yellows, blues and greens, along narrow canals. Tradition says the colours helped fishermen find their homes in the fog, and the houses are still repainted in approved colours. Burano is also famous for lace-making, and the Museo del Merletto, in Piazza Galuppi, shows the history of the craft. Lace is sold in shops along the main street, Via Baldassarre Galuppi, though visitors should check whether pieces are handmade, since many items are imported. The island's other landmarks include the leaning bell tower of San Martino church, which visibly tilts, and the local biscuits called bussola or essi, sold in bakeries. Small trattorie serve fresh lagoon fish and risotto di gò, a local risotto made with goby fish. Most visitors spend two to three hours on the island, walking the canals of Fondamenta di Cao Moleca and the side streets, taking photographs and stopping for a meal. Burano is often combined with a trip to Torcello, one vaporetto stop away, and to Murano. Crowds are heaviest from late morning to mid-afternoon, and the streets are much quieter in the early morning or after the day-trip groups leave in the late afternoon. The colours photograph best in soft morning or late-afternoon light and are especially vivid on overcast days. Please respect residents, since houses are private homes and washing lines and doorways are part of daily life. Visiting the island is free, with only the museum and meals needing payment.