The Secret Island of Venice: A Journey Through Legends and Hidden Beauty

Venice is a city of mystery and hidden beauty, but beyond its famous canals and historic palaces, the lagoon conceals secret and fascinating islands. There are places unknown to most tourists, silent and shrouded in ancient legends—tales of monks, artists, and even ghosts.

What is Venice’s secret island?

Between timeless monasteries, enchanting ruins, and untouched landscapes, this guide will take you on a journey to discover a more authentic and mysterious side of the Serenissima. An exclusive adventure through history, nature, and intriguing stories, with a special stop at the elegant Caffè Florian, a true guardian of Venetian charm.

Do Secret Islands Really Exist in Venice? History and Myths of the Enchanting Lagoon

The Venetian lagoon is made up of over one hundred islands, but only a few are well-known to tourists. The rest, that are abandoned, forgotten, or intentionally secluded, still hold a deep and ancient charm.

Many of these islands once hosted monasteries, hospitals, military fortresses or quarantine stations. Today, they remain as silent witnesses to a fascinating and sometimes eerie past.

These are places wrapped in mystery and legends, perfect for those who want to explore a different side of Venice, away from the touristic route and characterized by quiet and incredibly authentic atmosphere.

The Lesser-Known Islands of the Venetian Lagoon: Hidden Gems Away from the Crowds

Beyond the famous stops like Murano, Burano and Torcello, the lagoon hides lesser-known islands full of history and beauty. These islands, where nature and history come together, offer a slower and intimate experience of Venice.

• Isola della Certosa
Just a short vaporetto ride from Venice, this island once hosted a Carthusian monastery that remained active until the 18th century. Today, it’s part of a project for environmental and tourism revival. A peaceful green space, ideal for walking, cycling or simply relaxing by the water.
• Sant’Erasmo
Known as the “vegetable garden of Venice,” Sant’Erasmo is a peaceful, green island perfect for scenic walks, bike rides, and relaxing far from the crowds.
• San Giacomo in Paludo
Located between Murano and Burano, this small island once held a Benedictine monastery founded in the 10th century. Over time, it became a quarantine island, military base and storage site for gunpowder. Although now abandoned, its ruins still carry great charm. It can only be visited on special guided tours or cultural events.

These islands offer a glimpse into another side of Venice, silent, untouched and far from the usual tourist trails. Perfect for those seeking hidden views and a deeper connection with the lagoon.

Poveglia Island: A Forbidden Fascination Between History and Ghost Stories

One of the less famous islands in the lagoon is Poveglia, often called Venice’s “island of ghosts” because it is surrounded by dark legends, just like Ca’ Dario palace.
Once a quarantine station and later a psychiatric hospital, the island is now closed to the public. Still, it remains a source of eerie tales: many say strange things happen there, and some believe it’s still haunted.
Poveglia represents the dark, mysterious side of the lagoon — both feared and fascinating.

San Francesco del Deserto: A Sanctuary of Peace Amidst Nature and Spirituality

A world away from the dark legends of Poveglia is San Francesco del Deserto, a true oasis of silence and serenity.
This island is still home to a small community of Franciscan monks. It can only be visited with a guided tour and by request.

Here, the only sounds are those of nature. Visitors find a sense of calm and reflection, in fact it is the ideal escape from the fast pace of modern life.
It’s the perfect destination for those looking for peace, authenticity and a deeper spiritual experience.

Torcello, Venice’s Forgotten Island: A Journey to the City’s Ancient Origins

Torcello is one of the oldest islands in the lagoon. Once a powerful political and commercial center, it is now almost deserted with only about 12 residents, compared to the 20,000 who once lived there during the Serenissima Republic.
Walking along its paths, you can admire the splendid Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and the famous throne of Attila which, according to legend, brings good luck to all women who wish to have a child. According to popular belief, it would be enough to sit on the throne to get pregnant within the year.

How to Visit Venice’s Secret Islands: Tips for an Exclusive and Authentic Experience

To explore these hidden islands, it’s best to book a private boat or join a guided tour during quieter times of the year to fully enjoy the silence and unique atmosphere. And remember: some places can only be visited with a reservation.
Don’t forget your camera and your curiosity because every island has a story to tell!

And to end your adventure in the best way, come back to the heart of the city, near the Doge’s Palace, and take a break at Caffè Florian. A timeless place, where art, history and elegance meet, perfect to relive the magic of Venice.

FAQ

Why can’t we visit Poveglia island?

Poveglia Island is not open to the public primarily due to safety concerns. Many of its buildings, including the former hospital and bell tower, are in a state of severe disrepair, making the site structurally unsafe for visitors. Additionally, the island is not maintained or supervised, which increases the risks associated with access. As a result, public entry is prohibited to ensure the safety of individuals and to preserve the fragile historical remains.

What is the abandoned island off Venice?

Poveglia is the abandoned and mysterious island in the Venice lagoon. Hidden a few kilometres from San Marco, this small island, with its troubled history and eerie atmosphere, has become a symbol of intrigue and wonder for many.

Can you visit the Isola di San Michele?

Yes, you can visit San Michele Island, the cemetery of Venice. The island can be reached by vaporetto from Fondamenta Nuove or Murano, and entry is allowed up to 30 minutes before closing time.