Pellestrina

Pellestrina: The Underrated Lido of Venice

Right between the Venetian Lagoon and the Adriatic Sea, Pellestrina is one of Venezia’s best-kept secrets. This narrow island, stretching for about 11 kilometers (same length as Lido), is a peaceful retreat that has preserved its authenticity, untouched by the crowds that flood the famous city nearby. With its rich history, deep-rooted fishing traditions, colourful houses, and breathtaking natural scenery, Pellestrina offers travellers a unique glimpse into a quieter, more traditional side of the Venetian life.

A Brief History of Pellestrina

Pellestrina’s history is deeply tied to the development of the Venetian Republic and its maritime defences. The island was originally settled by fishermen and farmers, but it gained strategic importance when Venice built the Murazzi (a massive stone seawall) in the 18th century to protect the lagoon from the force of the Adriatic. These Murazzi still stand today, forming an impressive barrier that stretches along the island’s eastern shore.

The local population has always relied on the sea, with fishing and lace-making becoming two of the most prominent trades. While Burano is famous for its lace, Pellestrina has its own tradition of fine lace-making, passed down through generations of women.

Pellestrina Today

Unlike Venice, Pellestrina remains a quiet and unspoiled island. This strip of land consists of a series of small, picturesque villages—San Pietro in Volta, Portosecco, and Pellestrina—each with rows of colourful houses, quaint harbours, and a relaxed pace of life. The main mode of transport here is by bike or on foot, with a single road running through the island.

Fishing continues to be a vital part of life in Pellestrina. You’ll see small boats returning with fresh catches, which local trattorias turn into some of the best seafood dishes in the lagoon. For travellers who love authentic, rustic dining, Pellestrina is a paradise—here, you can enjoy a plate of freshly grilled fish, spaghetti alle vongole, or the famous Moeche (soft-shell crabs) right by the water.

Our top restaurant picks on the island are:

What Makes This Island Special?

  1. Authenticity and Tradition: Unlike Venice or even nearby Lido, Pellestrina has remained largely unchanged for centuries. The island’s fishing villages offer an authentic glimpse into a slower, more traditional Venetian way of life.
  2. Stunning Natural Beauty: The western side of the island faces the calm lagoon, while the eastern side is protected by the Murazzi, beyond which lies the open sea. The long, sandy beaches are peaceful and uncrowded, making them ideal for those seeking solitude and nature.
  3. Cycling Paradise: One of the best ways to explore Pellestrina is by bike. A scenic cycling route runs the entire length of the island, offering stunning views of the lagoon, the sea, and the colourful villages along the way.
  4. Easy Access Yet Off the Beaten Path: Pellestrina is easily reached by private boat, yet it feels a world away from the hustle and bustle of Venice. This makes it an excellent day-trip destination for those looking to escape the crowds and experience a different side of Venetian culture.
  5. Fresh, Local Seafood: Pellestrina’s seafood is among the best in the lagoon. The island’s traditional osterie and trattorias serve fresh fish caught daily, making it a must-visit for food lovers.

How to Visit Pellestrina

The easiest way to reach Pellestrina is by private boat (30 min journey), but you can also take a vaporetto from Venice to Lido, then catch a bus to the southern tip of Lido (Alberoni), where a ferry will take you across to Pellestrina (about 1.5h journey). Once there, renting a bike is highly recommended to explore the island at a relaxed pace.

For travellers seeking an authentic, peaceful, and picturesque escape, Pellestrina is a true hidden gem in the Venetian Lagoon. Whether you come for the seafood, the cycling, the stunning landscapes, or simply to experience a more traditional way of life, this enchanting island will leave a lasting impression.

Just drop us a message here to arrange a boat trip to this paradise!