Tour to the islands of San Servolo and San Lazzaro degli Armeni
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3h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
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About this experience
If you have already been to Venice and have already visited the most famous places or want to get away from the crowds, this is the tour for you.
You will meet your guide in Piazza San Marco and take the vaporetto to reach the island of San Servolo, one of the most complex and demanding restoration projects in Venice. The island is characterized by a vast architectural complex and a beautiful park and was a monastic seat for a millennium.
After another transfer by vaporetto you will reach the Island of San Lazzaro degli Armeni, a small island completely occupied by a monastery, the mother house of the Mechitarist order. The island is one of the first centers of Armenian culture in the world. An oasis of peace, which contains many secrets and treasures inside. A Mechitarist father will guide you from the quaint Armenian church to the small museum with Lord Byron's mementos.
The visit inside the monastery can take place in English, Armenian, Italian (or Italian with English translation). The starting time of the tour can vary based on the availability of the visits.
Available options
Tour to the islands of San Servolo and San Lazzaro degli Armeni
What's included
Insurance and technical organization of a certified travel agency
Entrance to the island of San Lazzaro degli Armeni
Entrance to the island of San Servolo
Tourist guide
Traditional Italian life with your local guide
Detailed itinerary
1
San Sèrvolo is an island in the Venetian lagoon. It is one of the islands closest to the historic center of Venice. San Servolo is one of the oldest monastic settlements in the lagoon. From 1715 the island was used as a military hospital and in 1725 the first mentally ill was hospitalized there. The government of Napoleon ordered, in 1797, that the insane of every wealth were hospitalized in San Servolo, which thus became an asylum and a secularly run military hospital.
2
Stop 2
San Lazzaro degli Armeni is a small island in the Venice lagoon, and is completely occupied by a monastery, the mother house of the Mekhitarist order. The island is one of the first centers of Armenian culture in the world.
What's not included
Everyting not indicated
Boat tickets (9,5€ per ticket)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
IT
Reviews breakdown
Viator
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Tripadvisor
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3 reviews
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
On certain dates, most travelers staying outside of Venice who are planning to visit for the day will be required to pay a €5 access fee. For further details (including exemptions) and to learn what days this fee is applicable, please visit: https://cda.ve.it
Departure times in the booking are approximate and are subject to slight variations. The agency will contact you a few days before the tour to confirm the meeting or pick-up time. You must provide a valid contact (phone number with Whatsapp or email).
Meeting point
Meet your guide at the Monument of Vittorio Emanuele ||. Together with the guide you will take the vaporetto to the islands.
About Venice
Venice is a unique and enchanting city built on more than 100 small islands in a lagoon in the Adriatic Sea. Known for its canals, gondolas, and stunning architecture, Venice is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit destination for its rich history, art, and culture. The city offers a romantic and timeless atmosphere that captivates visitors from around the world.
Top Attractions
St. Mark's Basilica
A stunning Byzantine cathedral known for its opulent design, golden mosaics, and historical significance. It is one of the most iconic landmarks in Venice.
Historical/Religious
1-2 hours
Free entry, €3 for museum and treasury
Doge's Palace
A masterpiece of Gothic architecture, the Doge's Palace was the residence of the Doge of Venice and the seat of Venetian government. It offers a glimpse into the city's political and cultural history.
Historical/Architecture
1-2 hours
€25 for standard ticket, €30 for Secret Itineraries Tour
Rialto Bridge
The oldest and most famous of Venice's four bridges spanning the Grand Canal, the Rialto Bridge is an iconic symbol of the city.
Architecture
30 minutes
Free
Grand Canal
The main waterway of Venice, the Grand Canal is lined with beautiful palaces, churches, and historic buildings. A vaporetto ride along the canal offers stunning views.
Nature/Scenic
30-60 minutes
€7.50 for a vaporetto ticket
Murano
An island famous for its glass-making tradition. Visitors can watch artisans at work and purchase unique glass souvenirs.
Cultural/Historical
Half-day
Free to explore, €10 for museum
Burano
A colorful island known for its lace-making tradition and picturesque houses. Burano is a charming and photogenic destination.
Cultural/Scenic
Half-day
Free to explore, €5 for lace museum
Must-Try Local Dishes
Risotto al Nero di Seppia
A risotto made with cuttlefish ink, giving it a distinctive black color and rich, briny flavor.
Main Course
Contains seafood, not suitable for vegetarians or those with seafood allergies.
Sarde in Saor
Sweet and sour sardines marinated with onions, raisins, pine nuts, and vinegar.
Appetizer
Contains fish, not suitable for vegetarians.
Bigoli in Salsa
Pasta with a sauce made from anchovies, onions, and breadcrumbs.
Main Course
Contains fish, not suitable for vegetarians.
Frito Misto
A mix of fried seafood and vegetables, including shrimp, squid, and zucchini.
Appetizer
Contains seafood, not suitable for vegetarians.
Popular Activities
Kayaking in the canals
Cycling on Lido di Venezia
Hiking in the Venetian Lagoon
Sunbathing on Lido di Venezia
Enjoying a gondola ride
Visiting a spa or wellness center
Attending a concert or opera
Visiting museums and galleries
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to October
These months offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds compared to the summer peak. The city is vibrant with events and festivals, and the temperatures are comfortable for exploring.
15°C to 28°C
59°F to 82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Italian
- Widely spoken: English, French, German
- English: Widely spoken in tourist areas, moderately spoken in local areas
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET), GMT+2 (Central European Summer Time, CEST) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Venice is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, pickpocketing and petty theft can occur in crowded areas, and acqua alta (high water) events can disrupt travel plans.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings
- • Use official taxis and ticket vendors
- • Be cautious of strangers approaching you with offers or requests
Getting there
By air
- Venice Marco Polo Airport • 12 km from city center
By train
Santa Lucia Railway Station
By bus
Piazzale Roma
Getting around
Public transport
The vaporetto is the main public transport system in Venice. It operates on fixed routes and is the most convenient way to get around.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber (limited availability), Local taxi apps
Rentals
Neighborhoods
San Marco
Dorsoduro
Cannaregio
Castello
Day trips
Burano and Murano
10-45 minutes by vaporetto • Half-day to full day
Visit the colorful island of Burano and the glass-making island of Murano for a unique and picturesque day trip.
Lido di Venezia
20 minutes by vaporetto • Half-day to full day
A long, narrow island between the Venetian Lagoon and the Adriatic Sea, known for its beaches, the Venice Film Festival, and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Padua (Padova)
40 km (25 miles) • Half-day to full day
A charming city known for its beautiful architecture, historic sites, and the famous Scrovegni Chapel with its stunning frescoes by Giotto.
Festivals
Venice Carnival • February or March (dates vary)
Venice Film Festival • Late August to early September
Festa del Redentore • Third weekend of July
Pro tips
- Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
- Explore the city's lesser-known neighborhoods and hidden gems for a more authentic experience
- Try local specialties and dishes, and ask locals for recommendations
- Use a map or GPS to navigate the intricate streets and canals, as Venice can be easy to get lost in
- Be prepared for acqua alta (high water) events, especially from October to January, and check forecasts and plan accordingly
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
