Sant'Erasmo Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Sant'Erasmo with our comprehensive guide highlighting the top attractions, must-try food and drink, best places to stay, and more.


Introduction to Sant’Erasmo

Sant’Erasmo is a beautiful island located in the Metropolitan Venice region of Italy. It is one of the largest islands in the Venice lagoon, and is known for its stunning scenery, serene atmosphere, and unique cultural heritage.

List of Places to Visit in Sant’Erasmo

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Sant’Erasmo has a rich cultural heritage, and there are several museums and historical places to explore on the island. Some of the must-visit places include:

  • Casa Museo Andrich: A fascinating museum dedicated to the life and works of Andrich, the Nobel Prize-winning writer.

  • Chiesa di Sant’Erasmo: A beautiful church dating back to the 11th century, known for its stunning frescoes and sculptures.

  • Corte Sconta: A historic farmhouse that has been converted into a popular restaurant, serving delicious local cuisine made with fresh produce from the island.

Natural Attractions of Sant’Erasmo: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Sant’Erasmo is an ideal destination for nature lovers, as it is home to several scenic spots and outdoor adventures. Some of the must-visit places in Sant’Erasmo include:

  • Gardening di Sant’Erasmo: A beautiful garden that features a variety of plants and flowers, as well as fruit trees and vegetable gardens.

  • Lido di Venezia: An idyllic beach that offers stunning views of the surrounding islands, and is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

  • Laguna di Venezia: A vast lagoon that is perfect for exploring on a boat tour or kayak tour. Visitors can spot a variety of wildlife, including birds, fish, and other marine creatures.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sant’Erasmo

Sant’Erasmo is a great destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts, as it boasts several scenic routes that offer stunning views of the island. Some popular hiking and biking trails in Sant’Erasmo include:

  • Sentiero del Forte: A scenic hiking trail that leads to a historic fort, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Ciclovia del Litorale: A scenic bike trail that runs along the coast of Sant’Erasmo, offering stunning views of the lagoon and the surrounding islands.
  • Sentiero del Pecolo: A picturesque hiking trail that winds through the hills of Sant’Erasmo, offering stunning views of the countryside and the lagoon.

Best Things to Do in Sant’Erasmo: Activities and Tours

Sant’Erasmo offers plenty of activities and tours for visitors of all ages and interests. Some of the best things to do in Sant’Erasmo include:

  • Boat tour of the lagoon: A popular tour that allows visitors to explore the lagoon and discover the hidden gems of Sant’Erasmo.

  • Cooking class: A fun and educational activity that allows visitors to learn how to cook traditional Italian dishes using local ingredients.

  • Wine tasting: A popular activity that allows visitors to sample the delicious local wines produced on the island.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sant’Erasmo

Day 1: Arrival in Sant’Erasmo, check into your hotel, explore the island on foot.

Day 2: Visit the Casa Museo Andrich, Chiesa di Sant’Erasmo, and Corte Sconta.

Day 3: Bike tour of the island, visit the Gardening di Sant’Erasmo.

Day 4: Boat tour of the lagoon, visit nearby islands.

Day 5: Hike the Sentiero del Forte, visit the historic fort.

Day 6: Cooking class, wine tasting, and food tour.

Day 7: Departure from Sant’Erasmo.

Food and Drink Scene of Sant’Erasmo

Sant’Erasmo is a food lover’s paradise, and offers a variety of delicious dishes and drinks made from local ingredients. Some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in Sant’Erasmo include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Risi e bisi: A traditional dish made with rice and peas, often served with fresh seafood.

  • Sarde in saor: Fried sardines marinated in vinegar, onions, and olive oil, served as a bar snack.

  • Granseola: A type of crab that is native to the Adriatic Sea, often served in pasta dishes or as a main course.

Local Beverages

  • Prosecco: A sparkling wine produced in the nearby region of Veneto, known for its light, refreshing taste.

  • Spritz: A popular cocktail made with prosecco, Aperol, and soda water, often served as an aperitif.

  • Bellini: A refreshing cocktail made with peach puree and prosecco, often enjoyed during the summer months.

Where to Stay in Sant’Erasmo: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Sant’Erasmo offers several options for accommodation, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Some popular places to stay in Sant’Erasmo include:

  • Locanda Matir: A charming guesthouse located in the heart of the island, offering comfortable rooms and a beautiful garden.

  • Hotel Il Lato Azzurro: A stylish hotel located on the beach, offering stunning views of the surrounding islands and the lagoon.

  • Venice Certosa Hotel: A luxurious hotel located on a nearby island, offering a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.

What to Buy in Sant’Erasmo: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Sant’Erasmo is known for its rich culinary heritage, and there are plenty of local products and souvenirs that make great gifts or mementos of your trip. Some popular products to buy in Sant’Erasmo include:

  • Local wines and spirits: Prosecco, Grappa, Limoncello, and Amaro.

  • Seafood products: Bottarga (cured fish roe), anchovies, and sardines in saor.

  • Local crafts: Handmade pottery, glassware, and textiles.

Local Culture and Customs of Sant’Erasmo

Sant’Erasmo is a unique destination that has a rich cultural heritage and local customs that visitors should be aware of. Some of the local customs and traditions in Sant’Erasmo include:

  • The Feast of Sant’Erasmo: A traditional festival that takes place every year on June 2nd, in honor of the patron saint of the island.

  • Locally produced food and wine: Sant’Erasmo is known for its delicious local cuisine, and visitors should try to sample as many local dishes and drinks as possible.

  • Tipping: It is customary to leave a small tip (around 10%) at restaurants and cafes in Sant’Erasmo, but it is not obligatory.

Best Time to Visit Sant’Erasmo

The best time to visit Sant’Erasmo is during the spring (April to June) or fall (September to November), when the weather is mild, and there are fewer tourists. The island can get quite crowded during the summer months (July to August), when temperatures can be high and prices can be steep.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sant’Erasmo

Do:

  • Try the local food and wine.

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.

  • Take a boat tour of the lagoon.

Don’t:

  • Swim in the lagoon, as it is not recommended due to pollution.

  • Wear revealing clothing in churches or other religious sites.

  • Litter or damage the natural environment.

Safety and Health

Safety in Sant’Erasmo

Sant’Erasmo is generally a safe destination for travelers, but it is always important to take basic safety precautions, such as:

  • Keeping valuables in a safe place.

  • Being aware of your surroundings at all times.

  • Avoiding unlit or deserted areas at night.

Health in Sant’Erasmo

Sant’Erasmo is a relatively healthy destination, with no major health risks or concerns. However, visitors should be aware of the following:

  • The water in the lagoon is not safe for swimming.

  • Visitors with allergies or dietary restrictions should inform restaurants and cafes of their needs.

  • Visitors should always carry travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Getting to Sant’Erasmo: Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to Sant’Erasmo is fairly easy, as there are several transportation options available. Some of the best ways to get to Sant’Erasmo include:

Airports Near Sant’Erasmo

The nearest international airport to Sant’Erasmo is Venice Marco Polo Airport, which is located approximately 10 kilometers away.

Bus Stations Near Sant’Erasmo

There are several bus stations in Venice that offer connections to Sant’Erasmo, including Piazzale Roma and Tronchetto.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Sant’Erasmo by boat, either by renting a private boat or taking a water taxi from Venice.

How to Get Around in Sant’Erasmo

The best way to get around Sant’Erasmo is on foot, as the island is relatively small and easy to navigate. Bikes are also a popular mode of transportation, and can be rented from several shops and vendors on the island.

Where to Go Next from Sant’Erasmo: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Sant’Erasmo is located in the heart of the Venice lagoon, and there are several nearby destinations and excursions that visitors can explore, including:

  • Venice: The world-famous city of Venice is just a short boat ride away, offering endless opportunities for sightseeing and cultural exploration.

  • Burano: A picturesque island known for its colorful houses and exquisite lace-making traditions.

  • Murano: An island famous for its glass-blowing industry, where visitors can watch artisans at work and browse a variety of beautiful glassware.

Conclusion

Sant’Erasmo is a unique destination that offers a blend of history, culture, natural beauty, and culinary delights. Whether you’re interested in exploring the island’s museums, hiking through its hills, or sampling its delicious local cuisine, Sant’Erasmo is sure to captivate your imagination and leave you longing to return.

Beach, south end of the island of Sant'Erasmo Beach, south end of the island of Sant'Erasmo The Massimiliana tower The Massimiliana tower Church of Cristo Re Church of Cristo Re