If we told you there was a way to experience an authentic side of Venice without the crowds, would you believe us? The secret lies in getting away from Piazza San Marco and venturing further out to explore smaller islands strewn throughout the marshy, magical Venice Lagoon.

This church was rebuilt several times and took on its present appearance between 1500 and 1600. It was consecrated on 29 October 1645 by the then bishop of Torcello Marco Antonio Martinengo. Over the centuries it underwent several restorations, while preserving the ancient architecture. Seen from the outside, the church lacks a main entrance, in fact you enter laterally through a Renaissance door, near the Chapel of Santa Barbara.

Further north in the lagoon lies Burano, a fishing island made up of hundreds of colorful houses that earn it the title of one of the most colorful towns in the world. Unlike Murano, which enjoyed industrial prowess for much of its history, Burano remained largely agricultural and fishing was its main industry. The colored houses are said to have been painted in bright hues to help fishermen navigate the lagoon on foggy days. Burano is also well-known for its lacemaking traditions, which originated in the 16th century.