The lymphatic vascular system develops from the pre-existing blood vasculature of the vertebrate embryo. New insights into lymphatic vascular development have recently been achieved with the use of alternative model systems, new molecular tools, novel imaging technologies and growing interest in the role of lymphatic vessels in human disorders. The signals and cellular mechanisms that facilitate the emergence of lymphatic endothelial cells from veins, guide migration through the embryonic environment, mediate interactions with neighbouring tissues and control vessel maturation are beginning to emerge. Here, we review the most recent advances in lymphatic vascular development, with a major focus on mouse and zebrafish model systems.