This Italian Town Has Bright Colourful Houses - The Reason Is Not To Look Pretty

NDTV

21-05-2025

Imagine walking into a town that looks like someone painted it with a giant box of crayons-where every house pops with colour in pink, green, blue, orange, purple, and yellow. Welcome to Burano, a tiny fishing island sitting quietly in the Venetian Lagoon, just a quick 40-minute ferry ride from Venice. Burano is known for its postcard-perfect streets, and while it might seem like the houses were painted for Instagram, the real reason behind these bold colours is far more practical and pretty fascinating.
Why Are Burano's Houses Painted In Bright Colours?
Despite what many assume, Burano's colourful homes were not painted just to pull in tourists or to look good in photos. The actual reason goes back to when it was a quiet fishing village. Local stories say the island gets covered in thick fog during the colder months. Fishermen coming back home at dawn would often find it hard to spot their houses in the mist. So, they painted them in standout colours, each one different, so they could recognise their homes even in low visibility.
There's A System Behind The Colours In Burano
The tradition of painting houses in eye-catching colours still exists today, but with some serious rules. Residents cannot just pick a shade and start painting. They must get permission from the authorities, and only specific colours are allowed. Even repainting your house needs official approval, which makes the whole island look super coordinated without losing its charm.
Things To Do In Burano: Your Travel Guide To This Unique Italian Island
1. See How Traditional Lace Is Made
Burano is famous worldwide for its handmade lace. You should definitely check out the Museo del Merletto (Lace Museum) where you can learn about the island's lace-making past and browse beautiful lace items-everything from delicate clothes to fine table linen.
2. Eat The Local Way: Burano Food You Need To Try
You cannot visit Burano without tasting its signature sweets and seafood. Try bussolai buranei (buttery, ring-shaped biscuits) and bussola, their lighter, S-shaped cousins. Walk along the canals while munching on these, then sit down for a proper meal at one of these local spots:
Trattoria da Romano for a wide variety of seafood
Trattoria al Gatto Nero if you are in the mood for pasta
Venissa, a Michelin-starred restaurant set in a vineyard, perfect for fine dining
Tourism In Burano: How To Be A Respectful Guest
Burano is not just a photo opportunity - it is a living, breathing town with real people. If you are visiting:
Always ask before taking photos of people
Do not peek through windows or move furniture or plants to take a better picture
Respect both private homes and public places - basic, but important
Also Read: This Is World's 'Most Photographed Beach.' Here's How To Get There
When Is The Best Time To Visit Burano?
Plan your trip between April and October for the best light and weather. During this time, Burano looks its brightest, and your photos will be full of colour. If you visit between June and August, be prepared for crowds.
You can also visit during the Burano Carnival, usually between late February and early March, for something different - a great mix of tradition and colour.
Burano Is More Than Just Pretty Houses
The island might be famous for its bright buildings, but there is much more to it. With its mix of old traditions, great food, and a strong sense of community, Burano is worth visiting whether you love photography, enjoy local culture, or just want a quiet getaway from busy Venice.