Pellestrina Travel Guide
Everything you need to plan your trip to the quiet island in the Venetian Lagoon
Table of Contents
Pellestrina
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Latest page update: 7 September 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Pellestrina
Pellestrina has only a very small number of hotel-style options, with most accommodation consisting of simple B&Bs and family-run properties catering to visitors drawn by the island’s quiet atmosphere and long stretch of lagoon-side and Adriatic beaches. For full-service hotels with stronger facilities and a larger base of guest reviews, nearby locations on the Venetian lagoon and the Lido offer the most dependable choices.
On the Lido di Venezia, Hotel Excelsior Venice Lido Resort is one of the most prestigious options, appreciated for its private beach, elegant interiors and consistently high standards of service (€€€€). Also on the Lido, Hotel Panorama provides a well-reviewed alternative close to the vaporetto terminal, offering comfortable rooms, helpful hospitality and convenient links to Venice (€€€). For those seeking a hotel with broader facilities while remaining within easy reach of the lagoon, Hotel Villa Mabapa on the Lido combines a peaceful garden setting with traditional charm and reliable guest feedback (€€€).
On the Lido di Venezia, Hotel Excelsior Venice Lido Resort is one of the most prestigious options, appreciated for its private beach, elegant interiors and consistently high standards of service (€€€€). Also on the Lido, Hotel Panorama provides a well-reviewed alternative close to the vaporetto terminal, offering comfortable rooms, helpful hospitality and convenient links to Venice (€€€). For those seeking a hotel with broader facilities while remaining within easy reach of the lagoon, Hotel Villa Mabapa on the Lido combines a peaceful garden setting with traditional charm and reliable guest feedback (€€€).
Where is
Where is Pellestrina?
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One of Veneto's best kept secrets, Pellestrina is one of the islands in the Venetian Lagoon, a short hop by ferry from the town of Chioggia on the mainland or from its neighbouring island: Venice Lido.
The island is a thin strip of land measuring 12 miles (7km) in length and just 500 metres at its widest. The main industry here is fishing and there are many signs of that with the proliferation of fishing huts that sit out in the lagoon and the large nets that hang over the typical fishing decks. |
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Pellestrina - frazione di Venezia
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Comune: Venice
Province: Metropolitan City of Venice Region: Veneto Population: around 5,000 Size: 2 km² Highlights: coloured houses Arrival port: Pellestrina Journey time from mainland: 25 minutes Distance from nearest mainland port: 6 km Arrive by: Venice water bus (vaporetto) Arrive from: Chioggia Fly to: Venice Marco Polo Airport (58 km) Recommended accommodation: Locanda Stravedo |
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Venice and its Lagoon
Year: 1987
Venice and its Lagoon
Year: 1987
What People Ask About Pellestrina
Is Pellestrina worth visiting?
How do I get to Pellestrina from Venice?
What is Pellestrina known for?
Can you swim at Pellestrina?
How long should I spend on Pellestrina?
Related links
Discover
Discover Pellestrina
Colourful Pellestrina
However, when I visited Pellestrina the thing that struck me most was the array of colour everywhere you look, very reminiscent of the island of Burano, also in the Venetian Lagoon.
Pellestrina isn't as carefully manicured as Burano but has a charm all of its own with the locals quietly going about their daily business, untroubled by large groups of tourists.
The multi-coloured buildings really do catch the eye but there's still more to the island. It has a sandy beach on the sea side (as opposed to the lagoon side), several churches and a good number of shops, restaurants and a bank with an ATM.
If you're looking for somewhere solely to sunbathe this probably isn't the place for you as the beach isn't as well-maintained as that of Venice Lido for example but if you want to see a genuine, living breathing island this is a great place to visit and to understand how life in the Lagoon works.
Pellestrina isn't as carefully manicured as Burano but has a charm all of its own with the locals quietly going about their daily business, untroubled by large groups of tourists.
The multi-coloured buildings really do catch the eye but there's still more to the island. It has a sandy beach on the sea side (as opposed to the lagoon side), several churches and a good number of shops, restaurants and a bank with an ATM.
If you're looking for somewhere solely to sunbathe this probably isn't the place for you as the beach isn't as well-maintained as that of Venice Lido for example but if you want to see a genuine, living breathing island this is a great place to visit and to understand how life in the Lagoon works.
How to reach Pellestrina
One of the reasons for the relatively small amount of tourists is that it can be a comparatively awkward and long journey if coming from Venice itself but it's a different story if coming from the mainland.
From the town of Chioggia you can take the Venice Water Bus (Vaporetto) line number 11 and it's just a 25 minute crossing. You can also visit from Venice but it takes a good deal longer and can be a bit complicated if you need to get back to Venice the same day.
From the town of Chioggia you can take the Venice Water Bus (Vaporetto) line number 11 and it's just a 25 minute crossing. You can also visit from Venice but it takes a good deal longer and can be a bit complicated if you need to get back to Venice the same day.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Pellestrina
- Pellestrina’s Harbour and Fishing Village offers a glimpse into traditional lagoon life, with colourful boats moored along the quay and fishermen at work. Visitors can stroll the waterfront, watch daily fish markets, and enjoy fresh seafood at local trattorias.
- The Church of San Pietro Apostolo is a central landmark in Pellestrina, featuring simple architecture and a welcoming interior. The church plays a key role in the community’s religious and cultural events throughout the year.
- The Beaches of Pellestrina stretch along the seaward side of the island, offering sandy shores and calm waters ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The beaches are less crowded than nearby Lido, providing a quieter coastal experience.
- Cycling and Walking Trails run the length of the island, allowing visitors to explore its natural beauty and lagoon views at a leisurely pace. These routes pass through small villages, salt pans, and nature reserves, showcasing the island’s diverse landscapes.
- Guided boat tours and nature excursions around Pellestrina explore its canals, wildlife habitats, and traditional fishing areas. Local guides share stories about the island’s history, ecology, and customs. These tours often include opportunities to taste local seafood and wines, providing a rich cultural and natural experience.
Tours and Activities
Pellestrina Tours and Activities
Where to Eat
Where to Eat in Pellestrina
- Ristorante Da Celeste: Located near the lagoon shore, this long-standing restaurant is known for its traditional Venetian seafood specialities. The menu features dishes such as spaghetti with clams, grilled eel, and seasonal risottos. With a quiet setting and waterside views, it’s a popular choice for a relaxed lunch or dinner. Price guide: €€€ (Special occasion)
- Trattoria Al Ponte di Pellestrina: Situated close to the main bridge, this informal trattoria serves generous portions of local favourites including mixed fried fish, seafood pasta, and cuttlefish in ink. The interior is simple and friendly, attracting both residents and day-trippers. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Osteria La Rosa: Set in the northern part of the island, this small osteria offers a welcoming atmosphere and a menu based on seasonal produce and fresh catch from the lagoon. Highlights include fish stews, antipasti platters, and homemade desserts. Limited seating makes booking advisable. Price guide: €€ (Mid-range)
- Pizzeria da Memo: This no-frills pizzeria near the central promenade offers a wide selection of wood-fired pizzas along with a few pasta dishes and salads. It’s ideal for a casual and affordable evening meal after a day on the beach or a bike ride. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)
- Bar Trattoria Ai Pescatori: A laid-back option near the harbour, this spot doubles as a bar and trattoria. It’s popular for light meals, cicchetti, and aperitifs. The outdoor terrace has views of the boats and offers a pleasant setting for a drink or quick bite. Price guide: € (Budget-friendly)
Photo Gallery
Pellestrina Photo Gallery
Places Close to [Place Name]
Places Close to Pellestrina
- Burano (approx. 10 km north of Pellestrina): Famous for its colourful houses and lace-making tradition, Burano offers visitors a scenic and tranquil atmosphere. Key attractions include the Lace Museum, charming canals, and the island’s vibrant streets filled with local craft shops and seafood restaurants.
- Torcello (approx. 15 km north of Pellestrina): A peaceful and historically rich island, Torcello is home to the ancient Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta with its stunning mosaics. Visitors can enjoy quiet walks through the lush landscape, explore the island’s archaeological sites, and experience the serenity of this lesser-known destination.
- Murano (approx. 15 km northwest of Pellestrina): Renowned for its centuries-old glassmaking tradition, Murano offers visitors a chance to explore glass workshops, visit the Museo del Vetro, and see the Basilica di Santa Maria e San Donato. The island's charming canals and artisanal atmosphere make it a must-visit.
- Venice (approx. 20 km northwest of Pellestrina): The iconic city of Venice is famous for its canals, historic landmarks, and vibrant culture. Visitors can explore the St. Mark’s Basilica, the Rialto Bridge, and the Doge’s Palace, or simply wander through the maze of narrow streets to discover hidden gems and local cafes.
- Chioggia (approx. 10 km south of Pellestrina): Known as "Little Venice," Chioggia features canals, colourful buildings, and a bustling fish market. The town offers a charming old town centre with quaint streets, historic churches like the Chiesa di San Giacomo, and beautiful seafront views, providing a peaceful alternative to Venice.
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Veneto Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Veneto
1. Venice 2. Lake Garda 3. Verona 4. Padua 5. Burano 6. Vicenza 7. Bassano del Grappa 8. Cortina d'Ampezzo 9. Chioggia 10. Soave 👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Veneto |
How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Pellestrina
By Rail: Pellestrina does not have a train station. The nearest access by rail is through Venezia Santa Lucia, which offers direct services from cities such as Milan (2 hours 30 minutes), Bologna (1 hour 30 minutes), and Florence (2 hours). From there, visitors can take a vaporetto to Lido di Venezia and then continue by bus and ferry to Pellestrina.
By Road: Cars are not permitted on most of Pellestrina, but limited access is available via the ferry from Chioggia. Drivers can reach Chioggia via the SS309 from Ravenna or the A13 motorway from Padua. From Chioggia, vehicles and passengers board a short ferry crossing to the northern end of the island. Parking is available near the ferry terminal.
Nearest International Airports:
Ferry Connections:
Lido di Venezia: Public transport links Pellestrina with Lido via ACTV bus Line 11, which includes a ferry crossing at Alberoni. This service allows for continuous travel from central Venice through to Pellestrina using standard vaporetto and bus tickets.
Chioggia: A short car and passenger ferry connects Chioggia with the northern tip of Pellestrina, operating throughout the day. This is the most direct option for those approaching from the southern end of the Venetian Lagoon.
By Road: Cars are not permitted on most of Pellestrina, but limited access is available via the ferry from Chioggia. Drivers can reach Chioggia via the SS309 from Ravenna or the A13 motorway from Padua. From Chioggia, vehicles and passengers board a short ferry crossing to the northern end of the island. Parking is available near the ferry terminal.
Nearest International Airports:
- Venice Marco Polo Airport: Located about 25 kilometres from Pellestrina, with a travel time of approximately 1 hour 30 minutes using a combination of waterbus, bus, and ferry connections. This is the closest major airport to the island.
- Treviso Antonio Canova Airport: Around 55 kilometres away, the journey takes about 1 hour 45 minutes to Venice by road, followed by public transport across the lagoon to reach the island.
Ferry Connections:
Lido di Venezia: Public transport links Pellestrina with Lido via ACTV bus Line 11, which includes a ferry crossing at Alberoni. This service allows for continuous travel from central Venice through to Pellestrina using standard vaporetto and bus tickets.
Chioggia: A short car and passenger ferry connects Chioggia with the northern tip of Pellestrina, operating throughout the day. This is the most direct option for those approaching from the southern end of the Venetian Lagoon.
