Lido Island, Venice – A Tranquil Winter Retreat & Lively Summer Getaway
The Lido Island Venice is a hidden gem beyond the canals.
Discover Lido Island, Venice – a hidden gem with sandy beaches, charming streets, and delicious food. Visit in summer or experience its peaceful magic at Christmas. With my help, find out how to get there, what to eat, and why Lido Island Venice is a must-see while visiting Venice.
Venice is famous for its canals, gondolas, and timeless charm, but just a short boat ride away lies a completely different world—the Lido Island– or, as it is called in the Italian language, Lido di Venezia. I visited Lido at Christmas time, capturing its beauty through stunning photos and a video that will soon be available on my YouTube channel.
Visiting Lido in winter was a unique experience: no crowds, a peaceful atmosphere, and a magical holiday charm. Let me take you on a journey to this enchanting island, where Venice meets the sea in a way you might not expect!
A Brief History of the Lido Island Venice ( Lido di Venezia)
The Lido Island has long been a place of fascination and transformation. In the early days, it was a quiet strip of land separating the Venetian Lagoon from the Adriatic Sea. However, by the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it became a glamorous retreat for Europe’s elite. Grand hotels, Art Nouveau villas, and the famous Hotel Excelsior (which still hosts celebrities during the Venice Film Festival) were built, turning Lido into a luxury seaside resort.
In the early 1900s, Lido became a pioneering beach destination, attracting writers, artists, and aristocrats. Even today, you can feel the echoes of that golden era as you stroll along the elegant boulevards or the sandy shores.
How to Reach Lido Island from Venice?
Getting to Lido from Venice is both easy and scenic. Unlike the main island of Venice, where cars are banned, Lido has roads and buses and even allows cars and bicycles, making it a unique part of the Venetian experience.
Here are the main ways to reach Lido from Venice:
- Vaporetto (Water Bus): The most common and affordable way is to take the Vaporetto Line 1 or Line 5.1/5.2 from Venice’s main stops (like San Marco or Piazzale Roma). The journey takes around 15 minutes from San Marco.
- Ferry for Cars: If you’re traveling with a car, you can take the Traghetto Ferry from Tronchetto to Lido’s Santa Maria Elisabetta terminal.
- Water Taxi: For a more private and luxurious experience, a water taxi can take you from Venice directly to your Lido hotel or beach.
Why Visit Lido Island Venice?
There are numerous reasons why it is worth visiting the Lido.
- Beautiful, Sandy Beaches
Lido is famous for its golden sandy beaches, a rare sight in Venice! Unlike the stone walkways and canals of the main island, Lido offers a relaxing beachside escape. Even in winter, the peaceful shoreline is worth a visit, providing stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.
- A Different Side of Venice
Lido resembles a blend of Venice’s history and a charming Italian coastal town. The tree-lined avenues, stylish villas, and local cafés create an atmosphere quite different from the narrow streets of Venice.
- Venice Film Festival
If you visit in early September, you can witness the Venice International Film Festival, one of the world’s most prestigious film events. The festival occurs at the historic Palazzo del Cinema, and you might even spot some Hollywood stars!
- The Murazzi & Sunset Views
A hidden gem on the island is the Murazzi, a long stone seawall built to protect Lido from the waves of the Adriatic. It’s a perfect spot for a quiet walk, especially at sunset, when the sky turns into a breathtaking blend of colors over the lagoon.
- San Nicolò Church and Monastery
History lovers will enjoy visiting the San Nicolò Church, home to the relics of Saint Nicholas, the patron saint of sailors. This church has deep historical significance, as it played a role in the annual Sposalizio del Mare („Marriage of the Sea”) ceremony.
- Cycling Around the Island
One of the best ways to explore Lido is by bicycle. Since it has roads and less foot traffic than Venice, cycling is a fun and easy way to see the island. You can even rent bikes near the Vaporetto station and ride along the coastline or through quiet residential areas.
How to rent a bicycle on the Lido Island and where to bike- read more HERE (coming soon)
What to Eat on Lido Island?
Lido offers some fantastic Venetian cuisine, blending local seafood with traditional flavors. Here are some must-try foods:
- Cicchetti: These small Venetian tapas are perfect for a light snack. Try the ones topped with baccalà mantecato (creamy cod spread) or sarde in saor (sweet-and-sour sardines) at a local bacaro.
- Fresh Seafood: Being by the sea, Lido offers delicious fresh fish dishes like risotto di gò (goby fish risotto) and spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams).
- Bakery Delights: Lido has beautiful bakeries selling focaccia, panettone (especially around Christmas), and croissants filled with pistachio or chocolate.
- Gelato: Even in winter, creamy Venetian gelato is a treat you shouldn’t miss!
Lido at Christmas Time – A Magical Experience
Visiting Lido at Christmastime is truly special. Unlike the crowded main areas of Venice, Lido felt peaceful, almost like a hidden winter retreat. The streets were decorated with twinkling Christmas lights, and local cafes served hot chocolate and seasonal treats. The festive yet relaxed atmosphere made the experience unforgettable.
The beach was particularly tranquil, with crisp sea air and stunning winter sunsets over the Adriatic. There was something magical about walking along the shoreline with almost no one around, just the sound of waves and the cool winter breeze.
If you’re looking for a unique Venetian Christmas experience, I highly recommend visiting Lido in December. It’s a perfect place to escape the crowds while still enjoying the holiday spirit of Venice.
My Story – Seeing the Dolomites from Lido
One of the most unexpected and breathtaking experiences I had on Lido was seeing the Dolomites from the beach. I had always thought that those majestic mountains could only be seen in pictures—but I was wrong.
That day, the sky was crystal clear, and as I looked across the Adriatic Sea, a faint silhouette appeared on the horizon. Slowly, the outline of the Dolomites became sharper, their snow-capped peaks glowing in the sunlight. It was surreal! I stood there, mesmerized, unable to believe my eyes.
It felt like a hidden secret, a rare moment only when nature perfectly aligns. Seeing the mountains from the sea gave me a whole new appreciation for Venice and its surroundings. If you ever visit Lido on a clear day, take a moment to look towards the horizon—you might just witness this breathtaking view yourself.
Final Thoughts
Lido di Venezia is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience a different side of Venice. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful beach escape, a taste of history, or a chance to explore the setting of the Venice Film Festival, Lido offers it all.
Don’t forget to check out my YouTube video for a closer look at this hidden Venetian gem!
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See you there!