Venice Islands: Murano Glass & Burano Colors Guided Tour

Summary

Murano glassblowing and Burano lace on a day trip from Venice

You’ll travel from Venice by boat with a small group, watching glassblowers shape glowing glass in Murano before exploring its quiet streets. In Burano, you’ll see lace-makers at work and wander past those wild-colored houses with your guide sharing stories along the way. There’s space for coffee breaks or just soaking up island life—expect moments that linger long after you’re back in Venice.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the boat ride from San Marco to feel so quiet—just the low hum of the engine and the lagoon’s salty air. Our guide, Marta, pointed out little islands I’d never heard of, her voice mixing with the soft slap of water against the hull. When we pulled up at Murano, I caught that faint smoky smell before we even stepped inside the glass workshop. The heat hit me in the face, then this old guy (Gianni? I think?) spun molten glass like it was nothing. He winked at us after making a tiny horse in about thirty seconds flat. I tried not to drop it when he handed it over—my hands were still a bit shaky from excitement or maybe just clumsy.

We wandered through Murano’s narrow streets for a bit—windows full of glass animals and chandeliers that looked too delicate to exist. Marta told us how families here have been doing this for centuries. She waved at someone across the canal; everyone seemed to know each other. Then back on the boat, Burano came into view all at once—a splash of colors so bright it almost felt fake (it isn’t). The houses are every shade you can imagine, and there was laundry strung between them, fluttering like flags. We stopped for coffee in a tiny café where an old woman behind the counter corrected my Italian with a smile—I still think about her lemon cookies.

The lace demonstration was quieter than Murano’s fire and noise. Just two women sitting by the window, hands moving fast but faces calm. One showed me how she knots thread into patterns—my attempt was honestly embarrassing but she laughed kindly and said “piano piano.” It means “slowly” but also “take your time,” which stuck with me for some reason. We had time to wander around before heading back toward Venice—the light on the water felt different now, softer somehow. I kept looking back at Burano as we left; it’s hard not to.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Venice islands Murano and Burano visit

• Embark from San Marco area
• Travel to Murano island
• Watch glassblowing demonstration
• Explore Murano streets and shops
• Travel to Burano island
• See colorful houses and take photos
• Watch lace-making demonstration

Top questions

How do you get from Venice to Murano and Burano?

The tour includes comfortable boat transport from San Marco in Venice to both Murano and Burano islands and back.

Is there a live glassblowing demonstration on this tour?

Yes, you'll watch a live demonstration by professional glassblowers on Murano Island as part of the tour.

Can I see how lace is made in Burano?

Yes, if you select that option when booking, you’ll see a lace-making demonstration on Burano Island.

Are guided walking tours included on both islands?

If you choose those options when booking, guided walking tours are available for both Murano and Burano.

Is lunch included during this day trip?

No lunch is included but there is free time to explore or grab food on your own during stops.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels since walking distances are moderate and there are breaks.

Where does the tour start in Venice?

The tour begins in the San Marco area of central Venice.

Are public transportation options nearby after returning?

Yes, public transportation options are available near the return point in Venice.

What’s included

Your day includes comfortable round-trip boat transfers from San Marco to both islands, an English-speaking guide throughout, entry to a live glassblowing demo in Murano (with time to explore), plus an optional lace-making demonstration and guided walk on Burano—all arranged so you can just show up and enjoy without worrying about logistics.