Murano and Burano in a Half Day Boat Tour
Cruise in style to colorful Venetian islands and see traditional glassblowing and lacemaking
This 4.5-hour tour takes you beyond the crowds of Venice to the colorful islands of Murano and Burano. Cruise across the lagoon in an elegant private boat, then watch a master glassblower shape molten glass and local women create lace by hand. You’ll also have time to stroll through Burano’s bright streets, take photos, and browse the shops before returning to Venice. It’s perfect for both first-time visitors and returning travelers who want to experience a different side of the city.
What You Get With This Tour
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Expert, English-speaking guide
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Walking tour
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Private boat rides
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Local craft demonstrations
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Guide tips
Tour Itinerary
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1
Meet your guide at St. Mark’s Square
Your tour begins between the iconic columns of San Marco and San Teodoro in St. Mark’s Square. Here, you'll meet your guide and get a brief introduction to the excursion ahead. -
2
Private Boat to Murano Island
Board a sleek boat bound for Murano Island. As you cross the Venetian Lagoon, you’ll pass clusters of small islands and enjoy the calm waters that feel worlds away from Venice’s crowded canals. -
3
Glass blowing demonstration
On Murano, visit a glassblower’s studio and see centuries of skill in action. Feel the heat as molten glass transforms into a shining piece of art while your guide explains the craft that made this island famous around the world. -
4
Burano Island
A short boat ride takes you to Burano, a vibrant fisherman's island known for its colorful houses. Your guide will explain the tradition behind the bright facades—painted so fishermen could find their homes through the dense lagoon fog. -
5
Lacemaking demonstration
You’ll then step inside a small workshop to watch artisans practice the intricate art of lacemaking. Discover why Burano's delicate lace was once treasured by European royalty and see firsthand the incredible patience and skill this craft demands. -
6
Free Time in Burano
After the demonstration, you have free time to get lost in Burano’s enchanting, colorful streets. You can browse for authentic lace, snap photos of the picturesque canals, or taste the island's famous buttery cookies, bussolai, from a local bakery. -
7
Return to Venice
Relax and enjoy the views on the comfortable private boat ride back to Venice. You'll see the city's grand architecture emerge from the water, offering a final, stunning perspective on the lagoon and its lesser-known islands. -
8
End Near St. Mark's Square
Your tour ends right where it began, leaving you perfectly situated to continue your Venice exploration. Be sure to ask your guide where to grab a nearby spritz; this is an adventure worth celebrating!
Additional Information
Good to know:
Weather Advisory: High water may affect the boat tour; alternative arrangements will be made if necessary.
Accessibility: Unfortunately, this tour is not wheelchair accessible.
Check-in: Arrive 15 minutes early for check-in at the meeting point so the group can depart on time.
Your 4.5-hour tour includes:
Expert English-speaking guide
Skip-the-line private boat transportation
Guided tour of Murano and Burano
Glassblowing demonstration in Murano
Lacemaking demonstration in Burano
Free time to explore both islands
Maximum group size of 22
What to bring:
Comfortable shoes
Camera
Water
Sunscreen (in summer)
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Customer Reviews
Very pleasant experience and knowledgeable
Claudia did a great job, you could tell she loved her town and her job.
Very informative and polite guide. Enjoyed the day with you.
Beautiful locations, should be “ full day” to explore more and support the local tourism. Nicole was great!
Frequently Asked Questions
What to bring?
Wear some comfortable shoes, and bring water and a camera. In the summer, we recommend sunscreen too.
What to bring?
Wear some comfortable shoes, and bring water and a camera. In the summer, we recommend sunscreen too.
What if I'm concerned about my mobility?
This small group tour does require some walking and you'll need to get on and off the boat too. If you have concerns about your mobility, take a look at our Murano and Burano Private Tour which can be more easily tailored to your needs.
Does this tour use public transportation?
We book a private water taxi to take just our group out to Murano and Burano. You won't be on the main water bus with large crowds.
