Casa Burano, Burano Island, Venice Lagoon - Explore & Book

"This is a rare opportunity to see the lagoon island of Burano as its inhabitants do, rather than just day-tripping in to photograph the brightly coloured houses and fishing boats for Instagram. The first (and still, in our opinion, the best) place to stay on the island, Casa Burano is an albergo diffuso of 13 rooms and suites, spread over 5 traditional houses. Staying here means you live right amongst friendly locals, and have an authentic experience of island life, after the tourists depart for the day; utterly enchanting, in case you were wondering. Wander the cobbled streets, chat to friendly locals, eat in neighbourhood restaurants and watch elderly women weave intricate lace tablecloths. We also loved seeing boats come and go across the lagoon in the glorious morning light. The accommodation itself is gorgeous: minimalist in style, with quirky design pieces and artisan furnishings. You can book a room or an entire house for a group (the biggest sleeps 8), and each house has a cool, communal area with comfy chairs and a kitchenette for teas and coffees. Should you want a bit of spoiling, just walk across the wooden footbridge to Mazzorbo island, where sister hotel Venissa awaits, with its gourmet restaurant and contemporary osteria. Perfect for those who want something more original than a hotel stay. Highs Burano itself, and living amongst locals: meeting them and experiencing authentic day-to-day life Beautiful rooms, with a clean, minimalist palette and excellent beds Fantastic value Michelin-starred dinners at their sister hotel, Venissa, located on the neighbouring island of Mazzorbo (accessed via a footbridge) Just a 40-minute vaporetto from the centre of Venice, so day trips couldn't be easier Lows No meals are served, no cooking facilities and only a few Burano restaurants remain open at night (even less out of season); but Venissa isn't far away During the day, the island does get busier with tourist groups. Make the most of the calm mornings and evenings We felt an in-room information pack would be helpful" - Liz Simpson