Soak up the sun and take a break from the hustle and bustle of Venice by spending a day at Lido's beautiful beaches. The Lido di Venezia offers visitors a tranquil escape with its soft golden sands stretching along the Adriatic Sea. Renowned for hosting the Venice Film Festival, Lido's beaches provide not only entertainment but also a peaceful retreat for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying a good book. With well-maintained facilities and a variety of seaside cafes and restaurants, Lido's beaches are perfect for both families and solo travelers looking to unwind. The beach's serene environment, complemented by the picturesque backdrop of Venice on the horizon, makes a day here a refreshing break during a trip filled with cultural tours and historical sightseeing.
Explore the beautiful island of Lido by bike, and enjoy the unique atmosphere of this serene escape from Venice's crowded streets. The Lido is an ideal place for cycling, with flat terrain and scenic bike paths that run alongside the beach and through quaint residential areas. Rent a bike and take a leisurely ride, passing by elegant Art Nouveau villas, tranquil gardens, and glimpses of the open sea. This self-guided activity gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, while breathing in the fresh sea air and taking in the vibrant local culture. Visitors can ride to the old Jewish cemetery, the historic Malamocco area, or venture further to the southern tip of the island, Alberoni, where you'll find a nature reserve and golf course.
Take a trip down to Alberoni at the southern tip of Lido, where you will find one of the most pristine and tranquil beaches, as well as a WWF-managed Nature Reserve. The beach is known for its soft sand dunes and the tranquil atmosphere, which represents a stark contrast to the busier beaches near Venice. The adjacent nature reserve is a sanctuary for wildlife and a haven for bird watching. With guided tours available, visitors can explore the natural flora and fauna and the ecosystems of the Venice Lagoon. Here, you can also find the Golf Club Venezia, nestled in this area of natural beauty, providing yet another leisure activity for visitors to enjoy. Alberoni's remote charm makes it perfect for those seeking a quiet refuge and natural settings.
Discover the picturesque village of Malamocco on the Lido island, one of the earliest settlements in the Venice lagoon. This quaint and historic town, with roots dating back to Roman times, was once an important center before Venice emerged as a maritime power. Walking through Malamocco feels like stepping back in time, with its narrow streets, charming colorful houses, and a serene canal running through it, much quieter than those in central Venice. Visitors can explore the ancient Palazzo del Podestà , the old town center, and the beautiful church of Santa Maria Assunta. The idyllic setting combined with a profound sense of history makes Malamocco an enchanting place to spend a few leisurely hours, and it provides a deeper understanding of the Venetian Republic's early days.
For the adventurous spirits, a kayak tour offers a unique vantage point to experience the Venice Lagoon. Starting from the Lido, you can paddle through the calm waters of the lagoon, taking in views of the distant Venice skyline, and exploring the area's natural environment. Guided by an expert, you'll learn about the local ecosystems and the history of the lagoon's islands and waterways. This eco-friendly activity invites a sense of tranquility, allowing for up-close encounters with local wildlife. Suitable for both beginners and experienced kayakers, this tour provides all necessary equipment for a safe and memorable journey through the less-traveled paths of the Venice Lagoon, revealing the serene beauty of this unique aquatic landscape.
Golf enthusiasts will relish the opportunity to play at Circolo Golf Venezia, located in Alberoni on the Lido. Its prestigious 18-hole course, set amidst the natural beauty of the Lido, offers a challenging and enjoyable experience. Surrounded by the Adriatic Sea to one side and the Venice Lagoon to the other, the course is steeped in history and provides stunning panoramas. The course features well-kept fairways, challenging bunkers, and subtle greens, ensuring a satisfying round of golf. Apart from golf, visitors can enjoy the elegant clubhouse, which offers a comfortable place to relax. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or looking to try something new, playing a round of golf here is sure to enhance your Lido experience with a touch of class and leisure.
Venture to the eastern edge of Lido to explore the Murazzi, a series of large stone sea barriers erected in the 18th century to protect the island from erosion and the sea's ingress. This historical landmark offers a scenic walk or bike ride, with breath-taking views of the sea on one side and the lagoon on the other. The area around the Murazzi provides a sense of solitude and contemplation, with the rhythmic sound of the waves creating a calming atmosphere. Visitors can admire the engineering feat of these barriers while enjoying the rugged beauty of the natural surroundings. The Murazzi area is also a popular spot for locals to sunbathe and relax, away from the more crowded central beaches, offering a quieter enclave for visitors.
Embrace the flavors of Italy with an exclusive wine tasting experience on the Lido island. Local wine bars and restaurants offer specially curated wine tasting sessions that introduce visitors to a variety of regional wines, including Veneto's own prosecco and rich reds such as Amarone and Valpolicella. Knowledgeable sommeliers guide guests through the nuances of each wine, discussing the grape varietals, the winemaking processes, and the best food pairings. These tastings often occur in intimate settings, perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing or beach lounging. This activity is a fantastic way to engage with Italy's renowned wine culture and to taste some exceptional wines while enjoying the elegant ambiance that Lido has to offer.
Experience the vibrant heart of Lido by taking an evening stroll down the main street, Gran Viale Santa Maria Elisabetta. Lined with a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes, this lively thoroughfare is a wonderful place to observe local life. In the evenings, it becomes particularly enchanting as street lights cast a romantic glow on the diverse architecture ranging from Liberty style to modern structures. Visitors can indulge in window-shopping, taste delicious gelato, or settle into a cozy restaurant terrace for a meal. The Gran Viale also offers a direct view of the beautiful Church of Santa Maria Elisabetta, a great starting point for any exploration of the island. The vibrant and friendly atmosphere makes this avenue a must-visit spot for travelers looking to absorb the local Lido culture.
Treat yourself to a day of luxurious relaxation at the thermal spa of the historic Hotel Des Bains on the Lido island. This iconic hotel, known for inspiring Thomas Mann's 'Death in Venice', offers a high-end spa experience that combines health and relaxation. Slip into thermal pools, enjoy a variety of saunas and steam rooms, or select from a range of spa treatments designed to rejuvenate the mind and body. The hotel's majestic architecture and serene gardens provide an elegant backdrop to a day dedicated to wellness. Whether you choose a restorative massage, a beauty treatment, or a soak in the healing waters, a spa day here promises to be a highlight of your Lido visit.