🧭 Introduction
Lazzaretto Vecchio Venice island is one of the most fascinating and least visited islands in the Lagoon. Located just a short distance from San Lazzaro degli Armeni, this small island was once one of the world’s very first plague hospitals, founded in the 1400s by the Republic of Venice.
For centuries, travellers arriving from potentially infected regions were brought here for quarantine, treatment, and medical observation.
Today, parts of the island can be visited on guided tours. Between historic pavilions, archaeological areas, and peaceful lagoon views, Lazzaretto Vecchio offers a rare glimpse into Venice’s medical and social history — a side of the city most visitors never see.
⭐ Highlights
One of the oldest quarantine islands in the world.
Historical buildings from the Venetian Republic.
Archaeological remains and restored pavilions.
Quiet, atmospheric, and far from tourist crowds.
Only accessible with guided tours
📍 Location
Lazzaretto Vecchio sits in the central-southern lagoon, between:
- San Lazzaro degli Armeni (west)
- Lido di Venezia
- The open lagoon towards Venice (north-west)
The island is small but strategically placed along historical maritime routes used by merchant ships arriving in Venice.
🛶 How to Get There
Lazzaretto Vecchio is not served by public transport and cannot be visited independently.
You can only reach it by joining official guided tours that include:
- private boat transfer
- access to the island
- explanations by specialized guides or archaeologists
Tours usually depart from Lido, Riva degli Schiavoni, or San Marco depending on the provider.
🕒 Opening Hours
The island is not open daily.
Guided tours are available on selected dates, typically spring–autumn.
Booking is mandatory.
Always check availability in advance (I can prepare a “Practical Info” box like the others if you want).
🎟 Tickets & Tours
Since the island is not freely accessible, you must book a guided tour.
Typical tour includes:
- round-trip boat
- guided visit
- entrance to restored buildings
Prices vary depending on the organizer, usually around €10–€15 per person.
🏝 What to See
Lazzaretto Vecchio Venice Islands may be small, but it offers a surprisingly rich visit:
🏗 Historical Pavilions
Explore the restored hospital buildings once used for quarantine, treatment, and medical supervision.
🦴 Archaeological Areas
Excavations have uncovered significant findings related to plague victims and lagoon life in the Middle Ages.
🌊 Lagoon Views
The island is located in a beautiful stretch of open water, offering quiet and atmospheric views toward Venice and the Lido.
🏛 Museum & Exhibits (when available)
Temporary exhibitions sometimes explain Venetian medical history, quarantine systems, and international trade routes.
💡 Local Tips
Book well in advance — tours often have limited availability.
Wear comfortable shoes: most of the island is unpaved.
Bring water, especially in summer.
Combine your visit with San Lazzaro degli Armeni, located very close by.
This island is ideal for visitors interested in history, archaeology, and unusual Venice.
❓ FAQ
Only through guided tours on specific dates.
No, there is no public transport stop on the island.
Yes — especially for those who want to explore Venice beyond the main tourist routes.
No. Despite its history, the island feels calm and peaceful.
Usually 60–90 minutes.
📸 Best Photo Spots
The central courtyard between the restored pavilions
Views across the lagoon toward Venice
The southern shoreline near the archaeological area
You can also visit nearby Islands like
👻 Poveglia Venice ( closed to the public )
Discover other island with the Venetian Islands guide.