Lido Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Lido, Venice. Read on and plan your next adventure to this beautiful island!


Introduction to Lido

Lido, also known as Venice Lido, is a long and narrow island located in the Venetian Lagoon, opposite the city of Venice. It is one of the most famous islands around Venice and is 12 kilometers long and 700 meters wide. Lido is internationally renowned for its magnificent beaches, where visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. The island is also famous for its annual Venice International Film Festival, which takes place at the Palazzo del Cinema.

List of Places to Visit in Lido

There are several places to visit on Lido, including culturally important attractions like museums and historical places, natural attractions like outdoor adventures and scenic views, biking/hiking routes, and other activities and tours.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you are a history lover, Lido has several must-visit locations, such as:

  • Museo del Cinema: This museum, located in the Palazzo del Cinema, is dedicated to the history of cinema. Visitors can explore the world of film through numerous exhibits, including objects and artifacts from some of the most famous films of all time.

  • Museo Archeologico: This museum houses a significant collection of ancient artifacts from the Venetian Lagoon. Visitors can learn about the island’s history and its importance in the region throughout the centuries.

  • Chiesa di San Nicolò: This beautiful church, dating back to the 11th century, is one of the oldest churches on the island. It features impressive Byzantine architecture with beautiful frescoes and mosaics.

Natural Attractions of Lido: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Lido is also famous for its natural attractions, including:

  • Blue Moon: This beach is ideal for those who love water sports, such as windsurfing, kitesurfing, and sailing. The clear blue waters of the sea provide a picturesque background for any activity.

  • Alberoni Beach: Providing a serene and peaceful environment, Alberoni Beach is the perfect place to unwind and relax on the sand.

  • Murazzi: Murazzi, located on the eastern coast of the island, is an ideal spot for biking or walking tours. Visitors can enjoy the stunning views of the sea while exploring the island on foot or by bike.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lido

Lido has several bike and hiking routes that can provide visitors with a true taste of the island’s beauty, including:

  • Route 1: Lido to Alberoni: This route is about 12 kilometers long, and it is the best route for visitors who want to experience some panoramic views while exploring historic buildings, forts and car-free streets.

  • Route 2: Murazzi to Malamocco: This 10-kilometer route takes visitors through the island’s beautiful beaches and passes by historic buildings and canals.

Best Things to Do in Lido: Activities and Tours

Lido has several fun activities and tours that visitors can participate in, including:

  • Venice Lagoon Kayak Tour: Visitors can explore the beauty of the Venice Lagoon in a kayak. With a guide, visitors can learn about the lagoon’s ecology and history while enjoying a unique perspective.

  • Sunset Venice Boat Tour: Experience Lido like a local, navigating the areas in and around the island through the perspective of a local in a traditional gondola, while rewinding shimmering waters along the canals during the sunset.

  • Guided Biking Tour of Lido: Visitors can go on a guided tour of the island on a bike. A guide will take visitors on an organized route that passes through some of the island’s most notable landmarks and attractions.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lido

If you have a week or more to spend in Lido, you can plan your itinerary using our suggested schedule:

Day Activities
1 Explore the Museo del Cinema, Museo Archeologico and Chiesa di San Nicolò
2 Visit the Blue Moon beach and the Alberoni beach
3 Explore the hiking route from Lido to Alberoni
4 Take a biking tour of Lido
5 Go on a Venice Lagoon Kayak Tour
6 Guided walking tour of Murazzi
7 Sunset Venice Boat Tour

Food and Drink Scene of Lido

Lido has several delicious dishes, unique beverages and local products to try during your visit.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sarde in Saor: A traditional dish that includes sardines with onions, pine nuts, and vinegar.

  • Spaghetti alla Sepia: A pasta dish made with black squid ink for a unique flavor and color.

  • Sgroppino: A refreshing and traditional Venetian cocktail made with vodka, lemon sorbet, and prosecco.

Local Beverages

  • Bellini: A popular drink made from a blend of Prosecco and white peach juice.

  • Spritz: Made from Aperol, Prosecco, and sparkling water, this popular cocktail is refreshing and perfect for a hot day in Lido.

Where to Stay in Lido: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Lido has several accommodation options for visitors, including luxury hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Some popular options include:

  • Grand Hotel des Bains: A luxury hotel close to the beach, offering luxurious amenities like an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, and a sauna.

  • Hotel Biasutti: A boutique hotel located in a beautiful Art Nouveau building. The hotel offers comfortable rooms and an excellent location on Lido.

  • Villa Angelica Bed & Breakfast: A lovely guesthouse located in a quiet area of Lido. The property features a beautiful garden and comfortable rooms.

What to Buy in Lido: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

There are several unique souvenirs and local products that visitors can purchase during their trip to Lido. These include:

  • Murano Glass: Murano glass is renowned worldwide for its beauty, and visitors can find many shops on Lido where they can purchase stunning pieces of glassware.

  • Venetian Masks: Venetian masks are a popular souvenir. These masks are handcrafted and usually decorated with intricate designs and bright colors.

Local Culture and Customs of Lido

Italian culture is centered around family and friends, and visitors to Lido will find this reflected in the island’s way of life. It’s important for visitors to respect local customs and dress modestly in churches and other religious establishments.

Best Time to Visit Lido

The best time to visit Lido is from April to October when the weather is warm and sunny. The island is also busy during the summer months, especially in August, when many Italian tourists visit for their holidays.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lido

Do:

  • Do take your time and soak up the island’s beauty by exploring its beaches, museums, and historical landmarks.

  • Do try the local cuisine and enjoy a glass of wine or Spritz.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage any of the island’s landmarks or natural attractions.

  • Don’t make excessive noise or disturb the peace and tranquility of the island’s environment.

Safety and Health

Safety in Lido

Lido is generally a safe place to visit. However, visitors should be mindful of their surroundings, especially when walking alone at night or in quiet areas.

Health in Lido

Lido has several hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies offering medical treatment should visitors require it. Visitors should bring any necessary medications and carry their health insurance details in case of emergencies.

Getting to Lido: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Lido

The Marco Polo Airport in Venice is the closest airport to Lido. From here, visitors can take a water taxi or vaporetto to reach the island.

Bus Stations Near Lido

The Lido island is well connected by bus, with regular services from Venice.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Lido using private water taxis and ferries. The water taxis are a convenient option and offer a more direct route to the island.

How to Get Around in Lido

Visitors can explore Lido on foot, by bike, or by taxi. Taxis are widely available on the island and are an excellent option for those with mobility issues or those carrying heavy luggage.

Where to Go Next from Lido: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Lido is an ideal base for exploring nearby attractions. Some of the popular destinations to visit include:

  • Venice: Venice, just a short water taxi ride away from Lido, is a fantastic destination for those who love history, art, and culture.

  • Burano: Burano is a small island famous for its beautiful lace and colorful houses.

  • Murano: Murano, situated in the Venetian lagoon, is famous for its glass-blowing factories.

Conclusion

Lido is a picturesque and fascinating island offering visitors a chance to explore Venetian culture, art, history, and nature. With so many beautiful locations and attractions to choose from, visitors are sure to have an unforgettable experience in this beautiful part of Italy.

View of Lido's Piazzale S.M. Elisabetta View of Lido's Piazzale S.M. Elisabetta View of Lido from the lagoon in May 2008 View of Lido from the lagoon in May 2008 The premier Hotel Excelsior resort, open since 1908. The premier Hotel Excelsior resort, open since 1908.