Pellestrina Venice is a long and narrow island stretching between the Adriatic Sea and the Venetian Lagoon. Far from crowds and tourist traps, Pellestrina feels like another world — colorful houses, fishing boats, and the smell of the sea.
Here, time slows down. People greet each other by name, and the rhythm of daily life follows the tides.
🏝️ What Makes Pellestrina Venice Special
Unlike Murano and Burano, Pellestrina is still authentic and untouched by mass tourism.
Walking along the island feels like discovering a secret Venice.
✨ Highlights:
Colorful fishermen’s houses (similar to Burano, but quieter)
Small harbors with fishing boats
Long sandy beaches that feel wild and endless
The murazzi — massive stone seawalls built in the 18th century by the Republic of Venice
If Burano is the “postcard Venice,”
➡️ Pellestrina is the Venice locals want to keep to themselves.
🚲 Things to Do in Pellestrina
🚲 Bike along the Murazzi (10 km of cycling between sea and lagoon)
🏖️ Relax on wild beaches with dunes and sea breeze
🍝 Eat fresh seafood in family-run restaurants
🛶 Explore tiny villages like San Pietro in Volta and Porto Secco
📸 Take photos of fishermen’s colorful houses and boats
Perfect for couples, photographers, and travelers who love quiet places.
📸 Best Views & Photo Spots
The Murazzi sea wall at sunset 🌅
Fishing boats near Porto Secco
Colorful houses in San Pietro in Volta
The lagoon side with views toward Chioggia and Venice
Tip: after a storm, you might even see the Dolomites in the distance.
🛥️ How to Get to Pellestrina Venice (Vaporetto Line 11)
From Venice:
- 🚤 Take vaporetto Line 1 or 5.1 to Lido di Venezia
- 🚌 From Lido, take Bus + Ferry Line 11 toward Pellestrina
Total travel time: 45–60 minutes
➡️ You don’t need a car.
➡️ You can take bikes onboard, perfect for exploring the island.
Also see 🚤 Vaporetto Venice — Complete Guide to Tickets, Lines & How to Use It
🍽️ Where to Eat (Fresh Seafood)
Pellestrina is famous for traditional seafood recipes.
🍽️ Recommended local dishes:
Fried sardines (sarde fritte)
Spaghetti alle vongole
pasticcio di pesce (fish lasagna)
Grilled fresh fish directly from local fishermen
💡 Restaurants are often simple but full of character — and the food is incredible.
☀️ Best Time to Visit
April – October → ideal weather
Summer evenings → dinner by the sea = unforgettable
Avoid windy days if you plan to bike along the Murazzi
This is the island of silence and sunsets.
🔗 Explore Other Hidden Islands
Want to discover more quiet places?
👉 🌿 Sant Erasmo — the “garden of Venice”
👉 🌿 Vignole Venice — the green escape
👉 🏝️ Giudecca— local life and stunning views
👉 📚 San Servolo — the island of memory and mystery
➡️ All islands guide: – venetian islands Discover the Lagoon Beyond Venice