Glass Workshop and Walking Tour in Murano
Explore the famous Venice island in 2 hours and craft your own gem with an exciting workshop!
Busy workshops and tourist-packed spots often overshadow Murano’s glassmaking heritage. However, this exclusive hands-on experience allows you to fully appreciate its artistry and tradition. Visit one of the oldest glass factories in the world, active since 1295, and create your own Venetian gem during a guided glass workshop. Go beyond the tourist trail with a small-group tour, unveiling hidden gems and 12th-century Byzantine mosaics. Immerse yourself in Murano’s authentic heart.
- Meeting point near the Murano lighthouse
- Rio dei Vetrai
- San Pietro church
- Glass factory
- Glass artisan atelier
- Glass lampwork workshop
- Conterie factory
- San Donato church
- Ending point
Embark on an unforgettable journey to Murano, where the art of glassmaking has been passed down through generations. The meeting point is in Murano, near the lighthouse, easily reachable from Venice by Vaporetto (water bus) in just 20 minutes, offering a scenic ride through the Venetian Lagoon. Alternatively, you can take a private water taxi for a quicker and more direct route.
Your adventure begins with a stroll along Rio dei Vetrai, the heart of the glassmaking district. Watch artisans at work and visit the world’s oldest glass factory, dating back to 1295, where traditional techniques meet modern design. Next, enjoy a hands-on lampwork workshop with a local artisan, creating your own Venetian gem. Explore Murano’s streets, visit the San Pietro church, and discover the Conterie factory. Conclude with a guided walk through the quieter corners of the island, uncovering its rich history and craftsmanship. The tour ends at the original meeting point, providing a full and memorable Murano experience.
Glass workshop and walking tour in Murano Description
Your 2-hour tour in Murano includes:
Professional, English-speaking guide
Glass factory showroom visit
Glass artisan demonstration
Glass workshop with a local artisan
Guided walking tour of Murano
San Donato church and byzantine mosaics
Maximum of 15 people per group
Please note that €30 per person, to be paid on site, are required if you wish to take home the Venetian bead you create
Explore Murano's Glassmaking Heritage
The tour will start near the lighthouse at Murano Faro water bus stop. Getting to Murano is a breeze! The island is just a 20-minute Vaporetto (water bus) ride from Venice, or you can opt for a private water taxi for a direct and scenic journey.
Your walking tour of Murano begins with a stroll down Rio dei Vetrai, the island’s main street, where you’ll pass the famous glass shops and watch artisans carry on the age-old tradition of glassblowing. As you walk along the canal, your guide will explain how Murano’s glassmakers continue to preserve their centuries-old craft while incorporating modern design and innovation.
Visit the Oldest Glass Factory in the World
Next, step inside the oldest glass factory in the world, a historic site active since 1295. This is where tradition meets modern design, and you’ll have the chance to witness firsthand how Murano’s glassmakers blend old-world craftsmanship with contemporary creativity.
Explore the showroom, featuring some of the finest glass pieces produced by these artisans, and see how Murano’s reputation as a global glassmaking hub is upheld with every creation.
Hands-On Lampwork Workshop
Next, immerse yourself in the world of lampwork with a visit to a unique artisan workshop. Watch as a skilled artist demonstrates this intricate glassmaking technique, and learn how they create breathtaking works of art. You can try your hand at making your very own Venetian gem, and you can decide to take home a personal creation, as a keepsake of your Murano experience, for an additional cost.
Discover Murano’s Hidden Gems
Throughout the tour, you'll also have the opportunity to explore some of Murano's lesser-known yet equally fascinating sites, such as the San Pietro Church, known for its stunning glass chandeliers and Renaissance artwork, and the San Donato Church, home to exquisite 12th-century Byzantine mosaics. This small group guided walking tour offers an immersive experience into Murano's rich glassmaking history, combining hands-on activities, cultural exploration, and the chance to witness firsthand how this ancient craft remains alive today.
The tour will conclude near the lighthouse at Murano Faro water bus stop, where it all began, making it easy for you to hop on a Vaporetto for your return journey.
What you get with this tour
Frequently Asked Questions
What to bring?
Please bring a valid ID document matching the name provided at the time of the booking. We also recommend wearing comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a good camera and umbrella in case of rain.
Where to meet?
You will meet your guide near the lighthouse at Murano Faro water bus stop. This tour will finish back where you started.
What to bring?
Please bring a valid ID document matching the name provided at the time of the booking. We also recommend wearing comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a good camera and umbrella in case of rain.
Is this tour run by The Tour Guy?
No, this tour is operated by one of our trusted and vetted partners in Venice.
Is there any chance my tour might be canceled?
On the rare occasions the tour is canceled, we'll inform you as soon as possible. We will work with you to reschedule your tour when possible or provide a full refund.
What if I have concerns about my mobility on this tour?
Unfortunately, because of the areas visited, this small group tour is not wheelchair accessible. If you have other concerns about your mobility, please contact us in advance and we will do our best to assist you. A wheelchair accessible tour is possible as a private tour.
What happens if it rains?
We run our tour rain or shine. In case the weather is too bad to run the tour, we will inform you as soon as possible and work together on a refund or on rescheduling the activity.
Is lunch included in the price of the tour?
No, food is not included in the price of this tour, and we recommend bringing water with you. Your guide will be happy to point you in the direction of restaurants and bars after the tour.
Does this tour include hotel pickup?
No hotel pickup is not included on this tour. You will meet your guide at the designated meeting point near the Murano lighthouse.
Can I bring my kids and do I have to pay for them?
Children are welcome on this tour, and those under 15 years old pay a reduced fee. Please note that the tour is accessible to strollers.
Is the workshop cost included in the tour?
Yes, the cost of the workshop is included in the tour price. This means that all materials, instruction, and any associated fees are covered, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the experience without additional costs.
Do I get to bring my creation at home?
If you'd like to take home the glass bead you create during the workshop, there's an additional fee of €30, payable on-site.
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