Venice Islands: Murano, Burano & Torcello Wooden Boat Tour

Summary

Murano glass, Burano color and Torcello’s silent mosaics by boat

You’ll ride a vintage wooden boat across the Venetian Lagoon with a local guide, watch live glassblowing on Murano, wander Burano’s wild colors and lace shops, then step into Torcello’s ancient quiet for a glimpse of early Venice. If you want to feel both part of the crowd and far away from it all at once, this day trip does that.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the boat to smell like old wood and salt when we left San Marco—kind of comforting, honestly. The lagoon was quieter than I thought it’d be, just the low hum of the engine and our guide (Marta) pointing out little islands with names I immediately forgot. She told us stories about the lagoon’s history while a breeze kept blowing my hair in my face. I kept thinking: this is Venice, but not the Venice I’d seen in postcards.

First stop was Murano. There’s something hypnotic about watching someone turn glowing blobs into delicate glass shapes—I could feel the heat from the furnace even from where we sat. The glassblower barely looked up; his hands just knew what to do. Afterward we wandered past shop windows full of colors I can’t even name. Marta tried to explain how each family has their own style—Li laughed when I tried to say “vetro soffiato” in Italian (I definitely butchered it).

Burano hit me with color right away—those houses really are that bright. It almost felt like walking through a painting someone made up after too much coffee. We watched two women making lace, their fingers moving so fast it made me dizzy. The air smelled faintly sweet, maybe from someone baking nearby? I took way too many photos and still missed half the details.

Torcello was last and honestly, it felt like time slowed down there. Not many people around—just reeds swaying and old stones underfoot. Inside the basilica it was cool and dim, golden mosaics catching what little light there was. I stood there for a minute longer than everyone else; something about that silence stuck with me after we left.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Murano, Burano, and Torcello islands

• Board vintage wooden boat in Venice
• Enjoy guided tour on Venetian Lagoon
• Watch glassblowing demonstration in Murano
• Explore Murano’s artisanal shops and streets
• Cruise to Burano island
• Walk through colorful streets of Burano
• Learn about Burano’s lace-making tradition
• Travel to Torcello island
• Visit Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta
• See the Throne of Attila on Torcello

Top questions

How long does the Murano, Burano & Torcello tour take?

The tour typically lasts half a day, depending on group pace and weather conditions.

Is transportation included for this Venice islands tour?

Yes, transportation by vintage wooden boat is included if you select the premium option.

Do you get to see glassblowing on Murano?

Yes, there is a live glassblowing demonstration inside one of Murano’s furnaces during the tour.

Is lunch included in this day trip?

No lunch is included; you’ll have free time to buy food on your own at stops like Burano.

Are guides provided for all three islands?

A qualified guide accompanies you throughout the tour and shares stories about each island.

What if it rains during the tour?

The boats are covered and tours run in rain unless weather is exceptionally bad—in that case it may be postponed.

Where does the tour start in Venice?

The meeting point is near San Marco area; exact details are provided after booking.

Can families or solo travelers join this tour?

The tour is suitable for families, couples, solo travelers—anyone interested in art or history.

What’s included

Your day includes transportation by vintage wooden boat across the lagoon (if premium), guided visits to Murano with a live glass demonstration inside a real furnace, time exploring Burano with a lace-making demo, plus entry to Torcello’s historic sites—all led by an experienced local guide before returning back to Venice together.