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

Exploring Venice’s Hidden Islands: San Servolo and San Lazzaro degli Armeni

This tour in Venice offers a chance to escape the busy streets and crowded piazzas, focusing instead on two less-visited but deeply interesting islands. Priced at $232.71 per person, the 3-hour experience includes visits to San Servolo and San Lazzaro degli Armeni, both accessible via a water bus (vaporetto) with a guide leading the way. The tour emphasizes a small-group setting with maximum 8 travelers, ensuring a relaxed pace and personal attention.

Starting at St. Mark’s Square, this journey offers a structured yet intimate way to see parts of Venice often overlooked by travelers. From the historic San Servolo, with its centuries-old architecture and former military hospital, to San Lazzaro degli Armeni, home to a significant Armenian monastery, the tour provides insights beyond typical Venetian sights. While the boat tickets are not included in the price, you can expect smooth, guided transfers on the water, making the experience hassle-free.

Key Points

• Visit two lesser-known islands: San Servolo and San Lazzaro degli Armeni, away from the crowds
• Includes guided walking tours of each island’s historic sites
• All entry tickets to the islands are covered in the price
• Transportation via vaporetto is included, ensuring easy and scenic travel
• Small-group size guarantees a more personal, relaxed experience
• Tour duration is approximately 3 hours, starting at 2:00 pm

The Unique Charm of San Servolo Island

San Servolo ranks among the oldest monastic settlements in the Venetian lagoon. It has a layered history, starting as a monastic complex, then serving as a military hospital from 1715, and later becoming an asylum after Napoleon’s orders in 1797. The architecture and grounds reflect these different eras, and a guided tour highlights the island’s transformation over centuries. The church of San Sèrvolo remains a notable site, and the vast architectural complex and park offer tranquil views and photo opportunities.

Visitors can expect to learn about San Servolo’s historic uses, including its role in caring for the mentally ill from 1725 onward. The island’s history as a secular hospital and military installation adds a compelling layer to its quiet, natural setting. This stop lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, giving enough time to explore without feeling rushed.

The Significance of San Lazzaro degli Armeni

San Lazzaro degli Armeni stands out as a center of Armenian culture, hosting a monastery that is the mother house of the Mekhitarist order. This small island holds a rich cultural legacy, being one of the earliest Armenian cultural sites in the world. The monastery combines centuries of religious and scholarly tradition, which the guided tour helps bring to life.

The island’s historic monastery is the main focus during a 90-minute visit. Here, visitors can appreciate the architecture and artifacts that tell the story of Armenian heritage and the monastery’s role as a cultural hub. The site also hosts a wedding celebration on August 20, which was described as a joyful and surprising event, illustrating the ongoing cultural significance of the monastery.

The Guided Walks on Both Islands

The guided walks are led by knowledgeable local guides who offer clear explanations of each location’s history and significance. The guides’ professionalism is highlighted as a key strength, ensuring that visitors gain a meaningful understanding of the sites. Walking through San Servolo’s complex reveals how its architecture reflects its varied past, while the walk around San Lazzaro showcases its religious and cultural importance.

The tours are designed to be relaxed, not rushed, allowing ample time to absorb the atmosphere and ask questions. The small-group setting enhances the experience, making it easier to connect with the guide and focus on the stories behind each site.

Logistics and Meeting Details

The tour departs from the Monument to Victor Emmanuel II, located on Riva degli Schiavoni, a prominent spot near public transportation options. Starting at 2:00 pm, the activity includes a scenic vaporetto ride to the islands. The return is to the same meeting point, simplifying logistics.

Since the tour includes entrance tickets, you avoid waiting in lines, and the guide takes care of the technical organization, allowing you to enjoy the experience fully. The group size is capped at 8 travelers, which translates into a more personalized tour.

Practical Tips and Considerations

The boat tickets for the vaporetto are not included in the price, costing approximately 9.5 euros per ticket. Travelers should plan accordingly and purchase them in advance or at the meeting point. The tour requires good weather, as it depends on outdoor walks and boat transportation, so checking the forecast is advisable.

Most people can participate, as the tour is suitable for a wide range of ages and activity levels. The meeting point’s proximity to public transit makes it accessible for those staying anywhere in Venice.

The Value of This Island-Hopping Experience

Priced at $232.71, this tour provides entrance to two historically rich islands, guided walks, and comfortable transportation—all within 3 hours. The small-group format means more personal attention, and the inclusion of the island tickets ensures a smooth experience. It’s a great option for those seeking a less crowded side of Venice with meaningful cultural and historical insights.

While the tour duration is brief, it packs enough into the time to give a well-rounded look at two of the lagoon’s most intriguing sites. The professional guides and carefully organized logistics stand out as key strengths, making this a reliable choice for curious travelers.

Visiting San Servolo and San Lazzaro degli Armeni: Who Will Love It?

This tour appeals most to visitors who want to escape the crowds and discover Venice’s hidden stories. History buffs will appreciate the layers of San Servolo’s past, while culture lovers will find San Lazzaro’s Armenian heritage fascinating. The relaxed pace and small group size also suit those seeking a more intimate, educational experience.

It’s worth noting that the tour is best on good weather days due to outdoor walking and boat rides. The timing in the afternoon makes it a perfect addition to a day of sightseeing, especially if you prefer to avoid peak crowds.

Final Thoughts on the San Servolo and San Lazzaro degli Armeni Tour

This 3-hour guided excursion offers a meaningful way to see Venice’s less-visited islands, focusing on their historic and cultural significance. Its affordable price includes entrance tickets, guided walks, and scenic transport, making it a practical choice for those interested in a relaxed, informative experience.

The small-group size and professional guides ensure a personalized visit, while the unique stories of these islands add depth to any Venice itinerary. This tour is ideal for history enthusiasts, culture seekers, and anyone wanting to step off the beaten path.

While it’s a short experience, it leaves a lasting impression of Venice’s hidden corners and lesser-known stories—a thoughtful complement to more crowded city tours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are boat tickets included in the price of the tour?
No, the vaporetti tickets are not included but can be purchased separately at approximately 9.5 euros per ticket.

What is the starting point of this tour?
The tour begins at the Monument to Victor Emmanuel II on Riva degli Schiavoni, near public transportation options.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 3 hours, with guides leading the walk on each island and a scenic vaporetto ride.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but good weather is necessary, as it involves outdoor walking and boat transfers.

What makes this tour different from others in Venice?
It focuses on two lesser-known islands, San Servolo and San Lazzaro degli Armeni, providing guided historical and cultural insights away from the busy tourist spots.