Where?

Burano, Venice.

Why now?

Burano’s more popular sister island, Murano, is known for its glass-making and art installations, but this quaint little island in the northern Venetian lagoon offers vibrant colours, speciality fish dishes and an abundance of lace.

Don’t miss

Stroll down the main drag Calle Galuppi and stop for regular pastries as you wander your way in and out of lace shops. Pose outside the Church of San Martino, where the bell tower is at a degree comparable to the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

When to go?

Visit now to avoid the start of flooding season, known as “acqua alta”. Late October through to January has the highest risk for floods in Venice and its outlying islands and towns. Spring to early autumn is your best bet for touring without soaking your trainers.

Who to take with you?

Your souvenir-happy mum.

Most likely to bump into…

Brightly coloured buildings in every shade of the rainbow. The buildings in Burano resemble paint chips and homeowners are required to ask the government if they want to change the colour of their house. There are a group of acceptable hues based on the location of your building.

Essentials to bring with you

An extra bag for carrying home all your new embroidered linens and lace.

How to get there

An express ferry will take you from Venice to Burano in about 45 minutes, or you could skip over on a water taxi at your leisure.