Escape the bustling tourist trails of central Venice and discover a quieter, more profound side of the lagoon. This exclusive 3-hour guided tour takes you off the beaten path to two of the most fascinating islands in Venice: San Servolo and San Lazzaro degli Armeni. Your journey begins in the iconic Piazza San Marco, where you will meet your expert guide before boarding a vaporetto to set sail across the sparkling waters of the Venetian lagoon.
Your first stop is the island of San Servolo. Once a monastic retreat for over a thousand years, this island is now home to one of the most ambitious and sophisticated restoration projects in Venice. As you walk through its vast architectural complex and tranquil, sprawling park, your guide will reveal the island's layered history, transitioning from its religious roots to its complex modern restoration. It is a place of profound silence and beauty, offering a rare glimpse into a side of Venetian life that most travelers never witness.
Next, you will continue your voyage to the enchanting island of San Lazzaro degli Armeni. This tiny island is entirely dedicated to a monastery that serves as the spiritual and cultural heart of the Mechitarist order. Recognized globally as one of the most significant centers for Armenian culture, the island is a true oasis of peace. Here, you will be guided by a resident monk through the historic Armenian church and an intimate museum filled with precious artifacts, including fascinating mementos of the legendary poet Lord Byron, who once studied here.
This tour is perfect for history buffs, culture seekers, and anyone looking to trade the crowded bridges of Venice for the serenity of the lagoon. The price starts from 300 EUR and includes the expert services of your professional guide, ensuring you receive deep historical context and personalized attention throughout the 180-minute experience. Please note that vaporetto tickets are not included, allowing you the flexibility to use your existing transport passes.
Purchase a 24-hour ACTV vaporetto pass to cover your transport costs easily for this tour and your other Venetian travels.
Wear comfortable walking shoes, as you will be exploring monastic grounds and gardens.
Bring a camera to capture the stunning, panoramic views of the Venice skyline from the lagoon.
Choose this tour if you crave an authentic, intellectual, and peaceful Venetian experience. While most visitors stick to the main island, this itinerary offers a rare opportunity to step into the past and explore the hidden treasures of the lagoon. You aren't just sightseeing; you are engaging with the history of the Armenian diaspora and the architectural evolution of Venice. With an expert guide to navigate the logistics and share the secrets of these monastic islands, you are guaranteed a stress-free, deeply enriching journey that goes far beyond the typical tourist postcard.
Yes, it is a peaceful and educational tour suitable for older children and teenagers who enjoy history and architecture.
Yes, the tour price does not include vaporetto tickets. We recommend having a valid ACTV transport pass before meeting your guide in Piazza San Marco.
