Tour to the islands of San Servolo and San Lazzaro degli Armeni

Exploring Venice Beyond the Crowds: A Closer Look at the San Servolo and San Lazzaro Islands Tour

If you’re visiting Venice and looking to escape the hustle of the city’s busy streets, this tour to San Servolo and San Lazzaro degli Armeni offers a refreshing change of scenery. It’s the kind of experience that takes you off the usual tourist trail and introduces you to two less-visited, historically significant islands in the lagoon.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines a relaxed pace with insider insights — all within a small-group setting that keeps things friendly and personal. Plus, traveling by vaporetto with a guide means you avoid the hassle of figuring out public transportation on your own.

That said, a possible consideration is the price — at just over $230 per person, it’s a bit of an investment, especially for a three-hour trip. But if you value authentic experiences and expert guidance, it’s likely worthwhile. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy history, culture, and a peaceful escape within Venice’s lagoon, rather than travelers seeking a fast-paced sightseeing blitz.

<h3 id="section-0">Key Points

• Escape the crowds and enjoy quieter, less-visited Venice islands.
• Professional guide provides insights into the islands’ history and significance.
• Small-group experience ensures a relaxed, personalized visit.
• Includes boat transfers, making the journey smooth and hassle-free.
• Two distinct islands: one with a former asylum and military hospital, the other home to a historic Armenian monastery.
• Good value considering entrance fees, guided tours, and transportation included.

Discovering Venice’s Hidden Corners: An In-Depth Look

When most people think of Venice, they picture St. Mark’s Square, gondolas gliding down canals, and lively street scenes. While those are obvious highlights, they also mean crowds — and sometimes, a bit of sensory overload. This tour offers a different perspective, taking you to two peaceful islands where history, culture, and tranquility reign.

Why this tour stands out

Primarily, what draws us in is the chance to visit San Servolo, an island with a complex past. From being one of Venice’s oldest monastic sites to transforming into a military hospital and asylum, San Servolo’s history is fascinating and layered. Exploring its vast complex and park offers a tangible sense of the island’s evolving role in Venetian life.

Then there’s San Lazzaro degli Armeni, which is dedicated to Armenian culture and home to a monastery that’s been there for centuries. It’s a hub of Armenian heritage and one of the earliest centers of Armenian culture in the world. For history buffs and anyone interested in cultural exchange, this island’s monastery is a highlight.

How the tour is structured

The tour begins at St. Mark’s Square, a natural meeting point, where you’ll meet your guide. From there, you hop on a vaporetto, Venice’s iconic water bus, which whisks you away to San Servolo. The boat ride is smooth, and traveling with a guide means you won’t have to worry about tickets or navigation — everything is organized.

Once on San Servolo, you’ll explore the architectural complex and the park. Your guide will share stories about its history as a military hospital and mental asylum, giving you context about its transformation over the centuries. Expect about an hour and a half on this island, with some walking and plenty of photo opportunities.

Next, you’ll transfer to San Lazzaro degli Armeni, a small but culturally significant island. Here, your guide will lead you through the monastery, explaining its importance as a cultural and religious site for Armenians. You’ll spend around 90 minutes soaking in the atmosphere, with guided insights into Armenian history and the monastery’s role today.

What’s included and what’s not

The tour fee covers entrance to both islands, the guiding services, and the boat transfers. The only extra cost is the vaporetto tickets (about €9.50 per ticket), which you need to purchase yourself. The small group size, capped at 8 travelers, ensures a more intimate experience, allowing for questions and interaction.

You might find that the price reflects the value of personalized guidance and hassle-free transportation. Travelers who have already done more crowded Venice tours often find this one refreshing for its quiet, authentic feel.

What the experience is really like

Based on reviews, it’s clear that knowledgeable guides make a big difference. One reviewer noted that the guides are professional and attentive, which adds to the overall enjoyment. Another mentioned that weather was perfect, enhancing the experience of walking around these historic sites.

The atmosphere on each island is quite different. San Servolo’s expansive grounds and historical buildings evoke a sense of history and quiet reflection, far from the busy city streets. Meanwhile, San Lazzaro’s monastery offers a glimpse into Armenian culture, often described as a joyful and surprising experience, especially if you’re interested in religious or cultural history.

The reviews say it all

One traveler called it “fun fun fun,” emphasizing that it’s a memorable trip with nice people and beautiful weather. Another appreciated the safety and comfort, highlighting the professionalism of the guide. And a particularly touching review shared the experience of a wedding in the monastery, showing that the site continues to be a place of celebration and significance.

Practicalities: timing and logistics

The tour starts at 2:00 PM at the Victor Emmanuel II monument, near public transportation options. It lasts approximately three hours, including boat rides and guided visits. Since it’s a small-group experience, it tends to be more relaxed, with plenty of room for questions and individual attention.

Weather can affect the experience — it’s best suited for clear days, as the boat rides and outdoor walks are central parts of the tour. In case of poor weather, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled, with a full refund offered.

Is this worth the price?

At roughly $232 per person, the cost might seem steep for just three hours. But when you factor in the entrance fees, guided insights, and organized transportation, it’s quite a good deal for a unique, off-the-beaten-path experience. Plus, the small-group setting adds a layer of comfort and personalized attention that larger tours often lack.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want to see a different side of Venice—those interested in history, culture, and quiet beauty. It’s perfect for people who enjoy learning from knowledgeable guides and value a small, intimate group. Since it involves walking around historic sites, comfortable shoes are recommended, but there’s no strenuous activity involved.

If you’re visiting Venice for the first time and want to explore beyond the usual attractions, this tour offers a meaningful and memorable addition to your itinerary. Those with an interest in Armenian culture or history will particularly find this tour enriching.

FAQs

Do I need to buy my boat tickets separately?
Yes, the tour price includes the guided visits and entrance fees, but you will need to purchase your vaporetto tickets (about €9.50 each). It’s straightforward and can be done at the dock or online in advance.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly designed as a family tour, children who enjoy history and walking should be fine. The focus on cultural and historical sites makes it more suited for older children or teenagers.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour lasts about 3 hours, including boat rides, guided walks, and visits to both islands.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes for walking are recommended. Dress appropriately for the weather, especially if it’s sunny or rainy.

Are the tours canceled in bad weather?
Yes, the tour requires good weather. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a new date or a full refund.

Can I join if I’m staying outside Venice?
Yes, but most travelers from outside Venice might need to pay a small access fee of €5 on certain dates. Check local details for your travel date.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Travelers with children should consider their kids’ interests and stamina, but there’s nothing in the description that precludes family participation.

What makes this tour special?
The combination of quiet islands, rich history, and personalized guiding makes it a memorable, authentic Venice experience away from crowded spots.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 8 travelers, ensuring a relaxed and intimate experience.

This small-group tour to San Servolo and San Lazzaro degli Armeni offers an authentic, insightful way to explore Venice’s lagoon beyond the busy tourist areas. If you’re curious about history, culture, and peaceful island life, it’s well worth considering. Just keep the weather in mind, and come ready for a gentle, engaging journey.