Murano: Glass Blowing Demo at Glass Cathedral with Prosecco

Summary

Murano glass blowing show in historic cathedral with prosecco

You’ll step into Murano’s ancient Glass Cathedral for a live glass blowing demonstration with local masters, surrounded by music and centuries-old walls. Sip Prosecco while watching two original pieces take shape right in front of you. It’s quick but surprisingly moving — something about fire and history mixing together stays with you long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

The vaporetto was late — of course it was — so we arrived at the Glass Cathedral in Murano a bit flustered, shoes still damp from the puddles near Fondamente Nove. I’d expected some kind of modern studio, but stepping into this old church (Santa Chiara, our guide called it) was something else: cool stone underfoot, faint incensey echoes, and that weird hush you get in places that have seen centuries pass. Someone handed me a glass of Prosecco before I could even ask where to sit. The bubbles tickled my nose and I almost spilled it when the first blast of fire lit up the furnace.

Our guide — I think her name was Giulia? — spoke softly but you could tell she knew every inch of this place. She pointed out little details: scorch marks on the floor from decades ago, saints’ faces half-lost in shadow above the altar. When the glass master started spinning molten glass on his rod, there was this moment where everyone just stopped breathing for a second. You could actually hear the hiss from the furnace over the low music playing somewhere behind us. He made two pieces — one looked like a delicate horse mid-gallop, and I swear you could see its muscles tense up as he shaped it. There was a smell too, not unpleasant — something between hot sand and old wood.

I tried to say “grazie” when he finished and probably butchered it; Li laughed at me and so did one of the assistants (in a nice way). The whole demonstration lasted about 25 minutes but honestly felt shorter. People drifted around after, looking at shelves full of wild colors and impossible shapes. I kept thinking about how many hands must’ve worked here since 1826, or maybe even before that. We left just as another group shuffled in — still thinking about that flash of orange light against stained glass windows.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Murano Glass Blowing Demonstration

• Arrive at The Glass Cathedral
• Observe glass masters at work
• Watch creation of two glass pieces
• Enjoy soft music and ambiance
• Have a drink during the show

Top questions

How long is the Murano glass blowing demonstration?

The demonstration lasts about 25 minutes inside the Glass Cathedral.

Is there a drink included during the show?

Yes, you can sip a glass of Prosecco or another drink while enjoying the demonstration.

Is this experience wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible at the Glass Cathedral.

Are children allowed at the Murano glass blowing show?

Yes, children can attend but must be accompanied by an adult; there’s no minimum age required.

Where does the demonstration take place?

The show is held inside the former church of Santa Chiara on Murano island.

Do I need to pay any extra fees for Venice access?

On certain dates, travelers visiting Venice for the day may need to pay a €5 access fee; check official sources for details.

Will we see more than one piece being made?

Yes, during your visit two original pieces will be created by master glassmakers.

What’s included

Your visit includes entry to The Glass Cathedral on Murano island for a live demonstration by master glassblowers, all taxes and fees covered, plus guidance throughout from staff or your local guide—and yes, you’ll get to enjoy a drink (like Prosecco) while watching them work their magic right in front of you before heading back out into Venice’s canals.