Here is an article in today's Guardian about the islands near Venice, written by a resident.The world of the Venice lagoon is far more complex than this, and he seems to have some rather strange priorities. Venice itself has so much to offer that you will necessarily have limited time to explore the islands. He places a strange emphasis on Chioggia (KYOH-jah), which I have never particularly liked- it's a sort of ugly, poor version of Venice. The Italians would say a brutta copia (rough draft). It is also accessible by the mainland and you can get there by car.
I do like the Lido (especially Alberoni) and Pellestrina. But with limited time you should choose wisely between San Giorgio, Torcello, Murano, Burano, San Francesco del Deserto, and San Lazzaro degli Armeni (in the photo) before these. Make a careful study of relative attractions and logistics. I highly recommend at least a day trip to one or more islands to complete your Venice experience.
