The Italian village of Burano offers stunning natural beauty, iconic brightly colored houses, traditional lace crafts, and delicious culinary delights that are a must-try.
Located in the Venetian lagoon, the village of Burano is a hidden gem that not only offers stunning natural beauty but also rich culture and tradition that makes it a very attractive tourist destination.
Famous for its brightly colored houses, Burano offers a unique and refreshing atmosphere, far from the hustle and bustle of the busy Venice.
If you are planning a trip to Italy and want to explore a different side of Venice, Burano is the right choice.
This village not only offers stunning views but also various fun activities and delicious local cuisine. Let’s explore more about the charm of Burano, from its history to the interesting things to do there.
History of Burano Village
The village of Burano has a long history that began in the 6th century, when the island was first inhabited by people from the Roman city of Altino.
They founded the settlement as a refuge from the barbarians who were invading the area. There are several theories about the origin of the name “Burano”, one of which links it to “Porta Boreana”, which refers to the direction of the northeast wind that blows.
Others say that the name Burano comes from the Buriana family or the nearby islet of Buranello.
Initially, houses in Burano were built using natural materials such as rattan and mud, but over time, residents began using bricks in the 10th century.
In the 16th century, Burano became part of the Republic of Venice and was known as a center for lace production, which brought the island to the height of its glory.
Burano lace is renowned throughout the world for the quality and intricacy of its designs, making it a symbol of a handicraft tradition that endures to this day.
Today, Burano is a peaceful village with about 2,800 inhabitants. The island maintains its cultural authenticity and is a very attractive tourist destination, offering rich natural scenery, history and local crafts.
How to Get to Burano Village
The village of Burano is easily accessible from the center of Venice, only about 16 kilometers away. One of the best ways to get to Burano is by public boat or vaporetto.
You can take Line 12 from San Zaccaria near St. Mark’s Square or from Fondamente Nuove on the north coast of Venice. The vaporetto journey takes about 45 minutes and offers beautiful views of the Venetian lagoon.
Another alternative is to take a boat from Treporti or Punta Sabbioni, two towns closer to Burano. The boat trip from these places only takes about 10 to 30 minutes.
If you’re interested in a more in-depth experience, you can take a guided tour that includes visits to some of the other islands in the Venetian lagoon such as Murano and Torcello.
Fun Things to Do in Burano
1. Walking along the colored streets
The first activity you shouldn’t miss in Burano is taking a walk along the colorful streets. The houses in Burano are painted in bright colors which create a very photogenic sight.
These colors are not only for aesthetics, but also have a practical purpose, namely helping fishermen to recognize their homes from afar when fog comes to cover the lagoon.
Each house in Burano has a different color, ranging from red, blue, yellow, green, to purple, which creates a cheerful atmosphere along the streets.
You can walk on these colorful little streets while enjoying the enchanting scenery and enjoying the tranquility away from the hustle and bustle of the big city.
2. Visit the Burano Lace Museum
For fans of handicrafts and art history, the Burano Lace Museum is a must-visit. The museum houses an extraordinary collection of lace, which is an important part of Burano’s cultural history.
The lace made in Burano is renowned throughout the world for its exquisite and intricate quality, and was widely used in royal and other important occasions in the past.
At this museum, you can learn about the history of lace making on Burano, from basic techniques to the intricate designs that have become the island’s signature.
You can also see the traditional lace-making process carried out by local craftsmen, who use ancient tools to create this work of art.
3. Witnessing the Beauty of Colorful Houses
Apart from the colorful houses, Burano also has interesting, distinctive architecture. The houses here are mostly rectangular in shape and consist of two or three floors.
Each house has overhanging roofs and balconies that give a distinctive classic feel. If you want to get the best view, you can visit the Three Bridges, a wooden bridge that connects the three sides of the main canal in Burano.
From here, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the beautiful houses, as well as a view of the leaning bell tower in the distance.
4. Local Culinary Tour
Burano is also known for its delicious local cuisine, especially fresh seafood. The island is a fishing village, so seafood is an important part of the menu at every restaurant.
One of the most famous dishes is risotto di gò, a risotto made with small gobies from the Venetian lagoon. You can also try other dishes such as mixed fish, which contains various types of fish freshly caught from the lagoon.
If you want to enjoy food of the highest quality, “Al Gato Nero” is a very famous restaurant in Burano and has received many awards. For those looking for a more casual dining experience at more affordable prices, you can try “Al Vecio Pipa” which serves delicious local dishes.
Burano Village is a destination that offers a unique and memorable tourist experience. From the iconic colorful houses, lace museum, to mouth-watering culinary tours, every corner of this village holds invaluable stories and beauty.
Burano offers the opportunity to enjoy tranquil natural beauty and immerse yourself in rich local culture, making it one of the best places to holiday in Italy.
With easy access from Venice and a variety of activities to do, Burano is a must-see for anyone visiting Italy. So make sure you take the time to visit the charming village of Burano and Santorini, and enjoy the beauty and rich history around every corner!
