Lido di Venezia is a narrow island about 11 kilometres long that separates the Venetian lagoon from the Adriatic Sea. It is thanks to it that Venice itself is protected from the strong waves of the sea. The island forms a natural barrier between the lagoon and the open sea and has played an important role in the history of the region for centuries.
Today, the Lido is easily accessible by boat and the journey from St Mark's Square takes around 15 minutes.
From sand dunes to luxury resort
Back in the mid-19th century, Lido was an almost deserted island with dunes, gardens and a few small settlements. The turning point came with the development of tourism, when wealthy Europeans began to discover the healing effects of sea air and bathing. Gradually, the first beach resorts, luxury hotels and elegant promenades were built here.
By the beginning of the 20th century, the Lido had transformed into one of Europe's most prestigious resorts. Aristocracy, artists, writers and industrialists flocked here. The island was visited by celebrities such as Lord Byron, Thomas Mann and later Coco Chanel. The atmosphere of luxury and refinement is still evident today.
The kingdom of Art Nouveau villas
One of the biggest surprises for visitors is the architecture. Unlike the historic centre of Venice, where Gothic and Renaissance buildings dominate, the Lido is known for its magnificent villas.
A stroll through the streets around the Gran Viale or Santa Maria Elisabetta is reminiscent of a journey back to the Belle Époque period (from the 1890s onwards). the facades are decorated with floral motifs, ceramic details, ornaments and elegant balconies.
Beaches you wouldn't expect to find in Venice
When you say Venice, most people think of gondolas and narrow canals. However, few people know that the Lido offers some of the most famous beaches in the area.
Here you'll find kilometres of fine sand, a gentle entrance to the sea and relatively calm water. Part of the coastline is made up of private beach clubs with iconic rows of sunbeds and cabanas (capannes), but there are also public beaches where you can enjoy the sea for free. Among the most beautiful is the natural area of Alberoni at the southern end of the island, famous for its dunes and protected nature.
Home of the most famous film festival
The Lido is also intrinsically linked to film. Every year the Venice Film Festival, the oldest film festival in the world, is held here.
Since 1932, the biggest stars of world cinema have been coming here. Every year, the red carpet in front of the Palazzo del Cinema hosts Hollywood celebrities, directors and journalists from all over the world. During the festival, the island takes on a whole new energy and for a few days becomes the centre of world cinema.
The place where Venetians spend their summers
While the historic centre of Venice is often crowded with tourists in the summer, it is the Lido that locals often head for. The island is full of greenery, bike paths and wide streets, which is quite unusual in the Venetian environment.
Locals cycle, walk to the beach or enjoy an evening aperitif overlooking the lagoon.
What not to miss in Lido
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Stroll along Gran Viale Santa Maria Elisabetta, the island's main street.
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Admire the Art Nouveau and Liberty villas scattered throughout the centre.
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Visit the Church of San Nicolò, associated with the patron saint of sailors.
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Relax on the beaches of Alberoni or Murazzi.
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Cycle around the island from north to south.
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Visit the Lido during the Venice Film Festival.
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Enjoy the sunset over the lagoon overlooking historic Venice.
Why visit the Lido di Venezia?
The Lido di Venezia is proof that Venice is not just a city of canals. It offers a unique combination of history, nature, architecture and the sea. In one day you can discover Art Nouveau villas, swim in the Adriatic Sea, cycle along the lagoon and watch the sun set over the Venetian bell towers in the evening.
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