A trip to the Venetian Lagoon is a popular excursion from Venice. Explore Murano, Burano, and Torcello and discover what each of these unique, arresting islands has to offer. Admire the views over St. Mark's Basin en route to Murano. Witness the town’s world-famous glassblowers in action and pick up a few pieces to bring home. Next, travel to see the unparalleled serenity of Burano. Wander among its iconic rainbow-colored houses and shop for fine lace and embroidery. Finally, immerse yourself in the mystical and mythical island of Torcello, dotted with the ruins of its glorious past. Torcello was the first island in the Venetian lagoon to be populated, and it’s also where the habitation of Venice and its legendary craftsmanship and entrepreneurialism began.

The islands of the Venetian Lagoon are about 10 kilometers (6 miles) from Venice. Traveling by boat usually takes about 20 to 30 minutes.

As the largest lake in Italy, Lake Garda’s shores are lined with quaint resorts and historic villages. For fans of boating, fishing, swimming, and other popular watersports, it’s the ideal destination for a day trip. Make a pit stop in Sirmione, a small village at the end of a narrow peninsula extending into the lake, to soak in its dramatic vistas and thermal baths. See Roman-era villas, ancient pillars, and stone walls in Limone sul Garda. Afterward, take the ferry to Riva del Garda, for some window shopping and lunch at a pizzeria along the promenade.

Lake Garda is 200 kilometers (124 miles) east of Venice. A car or bus tour will get you there in about 2 hours and 15 minutes.

If mountain vistas and idyllic lakes get you excited, head to Cortina and the Dolomites. This welcome escape from the crowds of Venice makes for a picturesque day trip. En route, disappear into deep tunnels before emerging to discover photo-worthy views of canyons and valleys. Cortina, appropriately called the "Pearl of the Dolomites," is known for its crisp mountain air. Weather permitting, take the cable car up to Faloria, which overlooks the town from a lofty 7,000-foot high mountain perch. Trek onward and upward to Lake Misurina, to the dizzying peaks of the Tre Cime di Lavaredo for more unforgettable views of the Dolomites. For a relaxing last stop, make your way to the crystalline Lake Auronzo while heading back to Venice.

Cortina is 158 kilometers (98 miles) directly north of Venice. A car will be your fastest transport option, clocking in at about 2 hours. The train and bus both take closer to 3 hours.