I have been around the world and visited over 132 countries and six continents, thanks in large part to my military service. Countries I visited include several times to Italy, especially Rome, Naples, and Sicily. But never once had I been to Venice.
So I was elated that my recent itinerary on the Viking Sea – Venice, The Adriatic & Greece, Athens cruise – would permit me to view the elusive romantic city on the water.
There is much to see in the Venetian Lagoon, although I only had a day. Viking has many shore excursions to choose from. Here are some of what they offer to guests: At a Glance: St. Mark’s Square (included tour); Venice by Foot & Gondola; Hidden Venice on Foot; Secrets of Doge’s Palace unraveling St. Mark’s Square & Doge’s Palace; Private Gondola Ride for Two; A Gondola Ride in Venice; Venetian Islands: Murano & Burano; or Venice on Your Own.
While the last one is an independent excursion and all tourists must now pay a City of Venice Access Fee of 10 EUR (which is valid for one day), the fee is included in the Viking excursion fee and requires no additional action by guests.
It was a tough choice between all the excursions – some geared toward first-timers and others geared toward more in-depth exploration. Added to this, I had the island of Burano on my photographer life list as a place I needed to capture on camera because of the profusion of colorful buildings there.
My photographer’s mind prevailed. I chose to visit the islands of Murano and Burano, being comfortable with the fact that I would capture Venice with my Sony long-range lens (5.6/200-600mm) from our water taxi on the way to the islands.
Venice itself holds a timeless allure, capturing the imagination with its intricate network of canals and historic sites. But venturing beyond the main city to Murano and Burano offers a deeper appreciation for the diverse charms scattered across the Venetian Lagoon.
Each island beckons with its unique character, weaving together centuries of tradition, artistry, and natural beauty into an unforgettable tapestry of experiences.
I booked my excursion at $159 per person for 6 hours, including local guides and water taxis. Even though it’s described as “moderate level,” I found the trip to be quite easy. There were some cobblestones, but most walking is what you choose to do on your own.
Venice from the Water
From our water taxi, we took a leisurely cruse along the Giudecca Canal, passing St. Mark’s Square and the Doge’s Palace. I was later told that the traffic inside Venice on that day was untenable due to Easter.
One particular art installation on the Venetian shore that I was fascinated by was what many locals call the Hands Peace Bridge. Artist and sculptor Lorenzo Quinn calls it “Building Bridges.”
Quinn explained to the Associated Press that, “Humanity has never grown by creating barriers. It always grows when it opens up its borders, and it welcomes new cultures.” He added, “Venice is a testament to that. Venice opened routes to Asia, the Far East, with Marco Polo and the merchants of Venice. It has been a driving force of European growth always.”
Maybe I’ll go back another day during off-season to enjoy Venice’s architecture without the crowds.
Murano
We arrived in Murano after about a 90-minute water taxi. During our time, the local guides narrated the journey and gave a bit of history about the founding of Venice. I always appreciate the background information garnished with local expertise.
To reduce the risk of fires in the city of Venice, all glassmaking was moved to Murano in 1291. Once in Murano, also called the “Island of the Flames” due to its famous glassmaking business, we watched a master craftsman at work and were given free time to explore the many shops for purchases.
Hint: Try going to several of the shops that line the street, and don’t be afraid to bargain on higher-end pieces. I found the prices on lower-end pieces were very good and didn’t find the need to bargain when they accepted my credit card. One of my favorite finds is a talisman necklace to ward off the “evil eye,” which I bought for about $15 USD.
Burano
According to VisitVenezia.edu, this island is considered among the ten most colorful places in the world.
It was once the haven of fishermen and their wives. The story goes that the women started painting their houses bright and unique colors so that their husbands could spot their residence on their way back home from the sea.
Today, it’s a vibrant island with buildings that provide opportunities for capturing exceptionally beautiful photographs. And even though I was there in the late afternoon when the light seemed particularly harsh, my photos did not disappoint.
The island is also known for its lace-making industry, perhaps a bygone skill that has passed its prime in marketable souvenirs. An island museum pays tribute to the craft.
Be sure to save time to enjoy gelato at any of the numerous restaurants and sidewalk cafes. This is truly an endearing town that will only grow on you. I already want to come back again.
The Evil Eye
As a side note on this topic, the “evil eye” is deeply rooted in the history of Greece, Italy, and Turkey. It’s seen in ancient mythology, religious texts, folklore, and cultural practices. The concept emerged from ancient Mesopotamia and spread throughout much of the Mediterranean.
In fact, religion and culture proved to be no barrier to the widespread adoption of the supernatural belief. Even well-known ancient Greeks such as Plato, Theocritus, Plutarch, and Pliny the Elder mentioned the evil eye while contemplating the nature of it.
The belief is that the evil eye is a malevolent glare or curse brought about by jealousy. Nevertheless, it can be neutralized by the wearing of amulets or nazar, as it’s known in Turkey.
In Italy in particular, people use charms to ward off the powers of the evil eye. Ancient Greeks placed talismans in their homes and prominently wore amulets in order to protect them against the sorcery of the evil eye. As a result, nazars are a popular choice of souvenirs with tourists. Be sure to shop in Murano for glass-blown nazar necklaces, bracelets, rings, and key chains.
Karin Leperi Pezo is a freelance travel writer and photographer who has traveled to 125 countries. Her published bylines and images have won many awards, both domestic and international. Areas of special interest are culture, cuisine, and cruising along with nature, wildlife, and adventure. She divides her time between Iquitos, Peru and Las Vegas, Nevada.
it was soooo good reading about your newest article. wow I can’t believe we’re both hanging In there and enjoying life. my son and family ( inc 3 sons) have been living 25 min from Naples for 4-1/2 by the time they return to Hawaii in July. the twins who are almost 14 were just accepted at a private school named Kamehameha School
brilana graduated in 2001 from there. you have to be part Hawaiian and the competition is really overwhelming but it’s the richest school in the u.s so getting in is a feat in itself. to put the topping on the cake, Nicole get p.g. a few months before they left for graemes u.s. government job and Enzo, just turned 4 and speaks fluid italian at a 4 year old level of course. he’s been at a Montessori preschool for 2 years. I’m totally so excited with them all coming home. I think your son had a child the last time I talked to you, how old and any siblings?hope to hear from you and congrats to all of your photo and writing awards. Aloha, Renee