Murano: Glassblowing Show & Island Walk with Water Taxi

Summary

Murano glassblowing up close plus canals and artisan studios

You’ll cross the Venetian Lagoon by water taxi, step inside a real Murano furnace for a live glassblowing show, and stroll canals lined with artisan studios—all guided by a local expert. Expect vivid colors, quick hands at work, and quieter moments along Murano’s backstreets before returning by boat.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the way the water taxi hummed across the Venetian Lagoon—sort of hypnotic, that low engine sound mixing with laughter from a couple behind us. Our guide, Lucia, pointed out San Michele’s cypress trees as we left Venice behind. The air had that briny smell you only get near saltwater. I kept trying to spot Murano’s bell tower through the misty light—never realized how many islands float out here.

Inside the furnace, it was hotter than I expected—my glasses fogged up right away. The maestro barely glanced at us before plunging his pipe into molten glass, spinning it so fast I almost missed the color changing from orange to this wild blue-green. He shaped a little horse in under two minutes (I timed him), and when he snapped it off, everyone clapped except for one kid who just stared wide-eyed. Lucia explained how glassmakers used to be forbidden from leaving Murano so their secrets stayed safe. Felt kind of heavy hearing that while watching those hands move so quickly.

Afterwards we wandered along narrow canals, past shops with shelves full of impossibly delicate glass animals. The air smelled faintly sweet—maybe from some bakery nearby? Lucia waved to an older man sweeping outside his studio; she said he’s been working glass for forty years but still comes out every morning just to chat with neighbors. I tried saying “grazie” properly and probably butchered it—he smiled anyway. We had time to look around before heading back on the water taxi. I still think about how quiet Murano felt compared to Venice, like everything moves a little slower there.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Murano glassblowing and island walk

• Depart from St. Mark’s Square by water taxi
• Travel across the lagoon to Murano Island
• Meet specialized official tour leader
• Watch glassblowing demonstration at furnace
• Opportunity to buy local glass products
• Guided stroll through Murano canals and studios
• Return to St. Mark’s by water taxi

Top questions

How do you get from Venice to Murano on this tour?

The tour includes semi-private water taxi transport from St. Mark’s Square to Murano and back.

Is there a live glassblowing demonstration included?

Yes, you’ll watch a master glassmaker create pieces inside an authentic Murano furnace.

Do you have time to walk around Murano?

Yes, after the demonstration there’s a guided stroll through Murano’s canals and artisan studios.

Is pickup included in the tour?

The tour starts at St. Mark’s Square; hotel pickup isn’t included but public transport is nearby.

Can you buy glass on site during the visit?

You’ll have an opportunity to purchase local Murano glass products during your visit.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels as walking is gentle and distances are short.

What happens if it rains or there’s bad weather?

The boats are covered and tours run in rain; only exceptionally bad weather causes cancellations or postponements.

Who leads the tour on Murano?

A qualified and experienced local guide provides information onboard and during your island visit.

What’s included

Your day includes semi-private water taxi rides between St. Mark’s Square and Murano island, entry into an authentic furnace for a live glassblowing demonstration, time to browse or shop in local studios, plus guidance throughout from an experienced local guide before returning comfortably by boat.