A Peaceful Monastery Island in the Venetian Lagoon
🧭 Introduction
San Francesco del Deserto is one of the most peaceful and spiritual islands in the Venetian Lagoon. Located between Sant’Erasmo and Burano, this small island has been home to Franciscan monks since the 13th century.
Surrounded by cypress trees, quiet gardens, and ancient cloisters, the island feels completely removed from the busy streets of Venice. Because it is a functioning monastery, San Francesco del Deserto can only be visited during specific guided hours, and the island is otherwise closed to the public.
If you’re looking for silence, history, and an authentic glimpse into monastic life, this island is a rare treasure.
🌿 A Brief History
1220 — Saint Francis of Assisi is said to have landed here after returning from the Middle East.
The island was given to the Franciscan Order, who built a monastery and landscaped the island.
Throughout history it was abandoned several times, particularly during the Napoleonic period, when it was used as a military post.
The monks eventually returned, restoring the monastery and reopening the gardens.
Today, it remains a functioning religious community and one of the quietest corners of the lagoon.
🙏 Visiting the Island
San Francesco del Deserto is visitable, but only with the monks’ free guided tours.
⏰ Visiting Hours
Tours are typically available:
Morning: around 9:00–11:00
Afternoon: around 15:00–17:00
⚠️ No reservation needed, but hours may vary depending on religious ceremonies and seasons.
⚠️ Visitors cannot wander independently — the tour is mandatory.
👉 A short explanation from the friars is included, and you can walk through:
the cloisters
the gardens
the small church
viewpoints over the lagoon
🚤 How to Get There
There is no vaporetto service directly to San Francesco del Deserto.
The only way to reach it:
Private taxi boat
Small group excursion
Transportation provided by the monks (sometimes, from Burano)
Most visitors go this way:
- Take vaporetto to Burano
- From Burano’s pier, take a private boat transfer (5 minutes)
For updated visiting information, you can refer to the official Franciscan community website:
https://www.sanfrancescodeldeserto.it/
🌸 What to See
Even though the island is small, the guided tour includes several beautiful spots:
🌿 The Gardens
Cypress trees, aromatic plants, and quiet shaded paths.
🕍 The Cloisters
Two different cloisters:
one large and bright
one older and more intimate
🎨 Frescoes & Sacred Art
Simple but historically rich decorations inside the monastery.
🌅 Lagoon Views
Peaceful views toward:
Burano
Sant’Erasmo
the northern lagoon’s marshlands
💡 Tips for Visiting
Dress respectfully (it’s an active religious site).
Silence is required inside the monastery.
Plan your day around Burano + San Francesco del Deserto, since they are close.
Bring water and essentials — there are no shops on the island.
Check weather: the island is outdoors and exposed.
🌤️ Best Time to Visit
The island is most enjoyable in:
Spring: flowers, mild weather, peaceful gardens
Autumn: fewer tourists, cool breeze
Summer is possible but can be hot due to limited shade in some areas.
🔗 Related Venetian Islands
🌈 Burano – The Island of Colors and Tradition
🍇 Mazzorbo – The Silent Island of Vineyards and Slow Living
🌿 Sant Erasmo Venice – The Garden of Venice
🧭 Lazzaretto Nuovo – The Island of Quarantine and Forgotten Stories
More islands? Visit the Venetian Islands guide.