What to See in Torcello: 10 Attractions to Visit in Half a Day

Torcello is an island in the Venetian lagoon capable of giving unique emotions!

Did you know that there are only 12 inhabitants in Torcello? This makes the island one of the most peaceful places in the world, completely immersed in nature.

Do you perhaps think that such a small and uninhabited place has nothing to offer? You are very wrong! There are many attractions in Torcello.

In this article I’ll tell you what to see in Torcello and find out what to do on the island through an itinerary I’ve designed especially for you!

Wait! Want some advice? Visit Torcello with a local guide who will greatly enhance your experience by telling you about the legends and history of the place. Book your guided tour with one click!

The main attractions of Torcello

Although exploring the island does not take much time, there are many attractions you will encounter in Torcello, each with its own history and capable of captivating its visitors.

Whether you are a lover of nature, the sacred or art, you will not be disappointed with the island!

Are you one of those travelers who loves stories, curiosities and legends? Then know that Torcello is also for you.

Have you ever heard of the Devil’s Bridge or Attila’s Throne? Haven’t you? Read on and discover all the attractions of Torcello.

Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta

The Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta in Torcello | ID 228359672 @ Alberto Masnovo | Dreamstime.com

First, I must tell you about the Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta with its bell tower, the most important attraction on the whole island.

Just think that the Basilica’s origins are very ancient; in fact, it dates back to the 7th century and is an essential stop both for its splendid architecture and for the treasures it conceals.

As you visit the Basilica, in fact, you will be fascinated by the beautiful Byzantine style with which it is built, but more importantly you will be able to admire a very important and splendid mosaic cycle, The Virgin and Child and the Last Judgment.

I have a really valuable tip for you to make your visit to Torcello unique, and to do that, the island’s bell tower is essential.

In fact, you can climb to the top of this building and you will reach 40 meters high: from up there you will enjoy a breathtaking view of Torcello and the entire lagoon. Trust me, you cannot miss it!

Attached to the Basilica, also visit the Baptistery of St. John the Evangelist, although of the 7th-century original, unfortunately only ruins remain.

Church of St. Fosca

The Church of Santa Fosca in Torcello | ID 384401891 @ Scognamiglio Ferdinando | Dreamstime.com

Also located next to the Basilica is the burial place of the matron of Torcello, namely the Church of Santa Fosca.

It is thought todate from before the 9th century although around the year 1000 it underwent modernization, becoming part of the cathedral complex.

Its present appearance, however, dates from the 12th century when it underwent yet another restoration with substantial changes in order to house the relics of the martyrs Fosca and Maura.

This church, just like the Basilica, is also in the Byzantine style, however it has some differences since Venetian influences are evident.

Devil’s Bridge

Torcello Devil’s Bridge | ID 104968233 @ 18042011e | Dreamstime.com

Speaking of ancient Venetian style, one cannot fail to mention the Devil’s Bridge. Its peculiar shape, steps and especially the absence of a parapet are typical features just like the ancient Venetian bridges.

There are many legends related to this attraction and its name: it is said, in fact, that it was the devil himself who built the bridge.

According to the legend, every December 24 the devil shows up on the bridge taking the form of a black cat.

Torcello Provincial Museum

Torcello Museum | ID 197088887 @ Antanovich1985 | Dreamstime.com

If you want to learn about important pages of history of Torcello and more generally of the lagoon, I recommend visiting the Provincial Museum of Torcello.

Making use of artistic and archaeological artifacts, the past of the island, which has very ancient settlements, is reconstructed.

The Torcello Museum testifies to the importance of the area as a cultural crossroads and a focal point of trade and more.

Visiting this attraction is an essential step not only in understanding the development of Torcello, but the evolution of the entire Venetian lagoon.

Throne of Attila

Attila’s Throne, located in Torcello | ID 79062887 @ Rita Yatsyna | Dreamstime.com

Speaking of legends, the one related to the Devil’s Bridge is not the only one that adds to Torcello’s charm: have you ever heard of Attila’s Throne?

You heard right: in Torcello you can find a stone seat that, legend has it, was used by the very king of the Huns as a throne during his invasions of Italy.

In fact, it seems that the throne was used by the highest office on the island and, in fact, there is no historical basis since there is no record that Attila ever actually reached Torcello.

In any case, it is unthinkable to visit this pearl of the lagoon and not take a nice selfie with this throne that is as fascinating as it is mysterious.

Cipriani Inn

Torcello’s famous Locanda Cipriani | ID 229124483 @ Markzhu | Dreamstime.com

Are you familiar with the Locanda Cipriani? It is a magical place, founded in 1936 by Giuseppe Cipriani and run for almost a century by the family that owns venues and hotels of the highest caliber.

An inn with a restaurant and rooms, a must on the island as well as a symbol of elegance and prestige: think that it has hosted really important public figures, such as Hemingway, Callas, Diana of England and even Queen Elizabeth!

Andrich House Museum

Finally, I recommend that you spend some time at the Andrich House Museum: this was the home of the couple Lucio and Clementina Andrich.

In fact a mausoleum of these two artists: in this naturalist oasis you will appreciate the lagoon and the gardens of the home and most importantly you will find all their works.

But it doesn’t end there: the guide who will accompany you on the tour of the house is the couple’s nephew, and therefore he will give you unique tidbits and anecdotes for the most passionate and curious.

Visit Torcello in half a day: recommended itinerary

Visiting Torcello can take about two hours and getting your bearings is very simple: first, you can’t miss a stop with the vaporetto since you will have to get off at “Torcello,” the only stop on the island.

At this point, just follow the main street that runs along the Grand Canal: after about 3 minutes of walking you will find yourself at the Devil’s Bridge, the first stop on the island.

Continuing for about another 3 minutes you will reach the heart of the island that holds all the most important attractions.

Almost without having to move a step, in fact, you will be able to admire the Locanda Cipriani, the Throne of Attila, the Museum of Torcello, the Palace of the Archives, the Church of Santa Fosca, and especially the Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta.

Usually, the Museum and the Basilica are the attractions that require a little more sightseeing, and depending on how much time you have, a stop at the Locanda is also appreciated.

Torcello: what to do besides the monuments

Torcello’s attractions are indeed wonderful, but there are not many: rest assured, the island experience does not end here.

For example, if you want to carve out a little more time in Torcello, I suggest you try the typical cuisine: you can do so at the famous Locanda Cipriani or at other places, all located on the main street.

For example, you could also opt for Villa ‘600, an old farmhouse surrounded by greenery, overlooking the canal, which offers typical fish dishes: a mix of flavors in a charming location!

Also, if you have some time left over, getting lost in the nature of the small island can provide excitement: silence, relaxation and wonderful gardens and scents.

You will be able to observe wildlife and discover lagoon glimpses in a magical and truly peaceful place, devoid of large crowds and where you can spend time away from traffic and city bustle.

One idea is to reach Casa Andrich, located further north: a way along the green, and once you arrive a splendid dwelling between art and nature will know how to pamper you!

Frequently asked questions

Conclusions

Here we come to the end of this article on the wonderful island of Torcello and its attractions.

You will have realized that Torcello is not a “little sister” of Burano, but on the contrary has a strong personality and offers unique sights and experiences to its visitors.

I have told you what there is to see if you want to visit Torcello and suggested an itinerary for you to follow in order to optimize your time and not leave anything out of your visit.

I have also suggested what is possible to do in Torcello before answering frequently asked questions. Have you already been to Torcello? What do you think of this wonder immersed in greenery and surrounded by water? Tell us yours!

Trust me, choose a tour that includes Torcello and I’m sure you won’t be disappointed: the lagoon is waiting for you with one of its most precious and historic islands!