Murano & Burano Guided Tour by Private Boat with Glassmaking
Northern Italy, Venice
Embark on a boat tour to Murano and Burano. Immerse yourself in the lace-making and glassblowing traditions of Venice, see artisans at work, explore the island streets, and bring home local treasures.
Murano and Burano Islands Glassmaking and Lacemaking Tour from Venice
This guided tour explores Murano and Burano islands near Venice, ideal for visitors interested in traditional glassmaking and lacemaking crafts.
Highlights
- Explore Murano's glassblowing traditions at an artisan's workshop
- Watch women creating lace on the small island of Burano
- Stroll Burano’s streets lined with brightly painted houses
- Learn about Michelangelo’s connection to lacemaking and select your own lace keepsake
- Round-trip private boat transportation from Venice included
Description
Leave the busy center of Venice to visit islands known for their artisan crafts, passed down through generations. The short boat ride to Murano includes live commentary about the island’s glassmaking heritage.
Discover the history of Murano glassblowers, whose skills were so prized they were historically forbidden from leaving Venice under threat of execution. Witness a glassblower at work and learn about the transformation of silica sand into colored glass. After the demonstration, browse a large collection of Murano glass art and explore the island independently.
The tour continues to Burano, known for its vivid house colors and lacemaking tradition. Visit a lacemaking workshop where women still practice this centuries-old craft. Learn about the process and choose a keepsake in the style revered since Michelangelo’s time. Alternatively, enjoy walking the island's quaint streets and sampling local specialties.
This itinerary skips Torcello to allow more time on Murano and Burano and reduce travel time by boat and on foot.
Includes
- Round-trip transportation by private boat
- Local expert guide
- Glassmaking demonstration at a Murano factory with commentary
- Lacemaking demonstration at a Burano shop with commentary
- Discount of 10% or more at glassblowing and lacemaking venues
- High-quality headsets for clear audio and uninterrupted commentary
Excludes
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Gratuities
Important Information
- The Municipality of Venice applies an Access Fee on specific dates; register in advance at https://cda.ve.it/en/ to avoid delays.
- Island visit order and demonstrations may vary due to local conditions and artisan availability. The tour operates in all weather and requires moderate walking.
- Tour duration may slightly extend due to external factors; plan accordingly.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes due to moderate walking involved.
- Check local weather before departure.
- Bring a hat, sunscreen, and water for comfort throughout the day.
Easy Cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.
