The green island of Torcello is one of the most popular islands to visit in Venice but it still retains a peaceful atmosphere. Torcello is known for its 7th century cathedral with stunning Byzantine mosaics which you can admire without the crowds of Saint Mark's Basilica. Torcello was populated even before Venice and although it was once an important island with a large population, today its almost deserted and most of it is a nature reserve.
Torcello is reached by a quick boat ride from the colorful island of Burano. There are a few restaurants where you can have lunch and if you'd like to spend the night, there's an upscale hotel where Ernest Hemingway stayed and wrote.
Venice Islands: Top Islands to Visit in Venice
Torcello photo © by James Martin, Europe Travel