Looking for a quiet summer, with calm seas, sunset strolls, and a slow pace? Pellestrina Island is the perfect destination for you. This island in the Venetian lagoon is a thin strip of land suspended between the sea and the lagoon, representing one of the most authentic and poetic corners of the Veneto region.
Not to sound like a cliché, but here time truly seems to have stood still: the colorful houses reflect in the water and the laundry hanging out to dry tells the story of a simple, genuine everyday life. If you're looking for a different kind of vacation, far from the beaten track, Pellestrina is the ideal escape to truly unwind .
And thanks to short-term rentals , you can choose to stay in Venice while traveling independently and intelligently to reach Pellestrina even by boat, for a timeless excursion.
What to do in Pellestrina: slowly savor its authenticity
In Pellestrina, days are spent strictly on foot—no cars, just bicycles, boats, and walks. The perfect island for those who want to slow down and reconnect with nature and themselves. Explore the island by bike or on foot and admire the lagoon on one side and the Adriatic on the other . You can reach it:
- By motorboat from Chioggia
- From Venice, take the ferry from Alberoni to Santa Maria del Mare.
The village of Pellestrina is divided into the Scarpa, Zenneri, Vianelli, and Busetti neighborhoods, named after the families sent by the mayor of Chioggia to repopulate the island in the 14th century. Along the way, you'll pass San Pietro in Volta, Portosecco, and Pellestrina's center, with its many colorful houses.
You can stop to chat with the fishermen, stroll among the nets hung out to dry, or stop at the small local bars where time passes slowly like white wine in the cool shade of the tavern.
In the afternoon, choose one of the Adriatic coast's wild, public beaches for a refreshing swim. The sea here is often calm and shallow, making it ideal for families or those seeking a quiet dip. And when the sun begins to set, climb the seawall and enjoy one of the most beautiful sunsets in the Veneto region, with the sky turning orange and the boats slowly gliding towards Chioggia.
The lagoon between Chioggia, Lido, and unspoiled nature
From Pellestrina, you can reach not only Venice , but also Chioggia , aka Little Venice, by vaporetto. It's well worth dedicating half a day to strolling its canals, visiting the fish market, climbing the bell tower of Sant'Andrea, or simply enjoying a meal in one of its historic trattorias.
And if you prefer a more chaotic atmosphere, a small ferry will take you to the Venice Lido . Here you can rent a bike and pedal to Malamocco , an ancient fishing village, or relax on the long sandy beach frequented by writers and artists. For nature lovers, one of the most fascinating experiences is a visit to Ca' Roman , a protected area located at the southern end of Pellestrina. This stretch of coast is a paradise for migratory birds, a silent oasis where dunes, groves, and beaches alternate in a delicate and precious balance.
Pellestrina: an experience that leaves its mark
Visiting Pellestrina is an experience to remember, and one you can't miss if you choose to stay in Venice for even a short period. Every corner of this island invites tranquility and wonder. With a short-term rental, you can explore the island with complete freedom , shop at the local market, and cook fresh fish in your Venice apartment.
The rest of the Lagoon—Venice, Chioggia, and the Lido—are well connected to Pellestrina, and you can explore as you wish, strolling along the seafront and enjoying a peaceful summer, living like a local, and enjoying the authenticity of a Veneto region that few know but you'll love. So what are you waiting for? Book one of our apartments online for an unforgettable vacation.
