Venice Murano & Burano Private Boat Tour with Glass & Lace

Summary

Venetian lagoon colors, glassblowing heat and Burano’s quiet streets

You’ll board a private boat from Venice with a local guide, watch master glassblowers at work in Murano, stroll Burano’s colorful lanes tasting bussolai cookies, and meet Anna in her lace workshop. Every stop feels personal — you’ll hear laughter in kitchens and see sunlight bounce off canals. It’s not just sights; it’s little moments that stay with you.

What’s the experience like?

We were already gliding away from Venice before I’d even finished my coffee — the city shrinking behind us, water slapping at the hull. Our guide, Lucia, pointed out a low mist clinging to the lagoon. She knew everyone: waving to another boatman, joking about how you can always spot locals by their shoes. The air smelled faintly salty, but then we pulled up at Murano and it changed — suddenly warm and sharp from the glass furnaces. Inside the factory, I stood too close (I think) and felt my cheeks flush as the master spun molten glass into shapes I still can’t believe were real. He grinned at my wide-eyed look; maybe he’s seen it a thousand times.

Afterwards we crossed to Burano — it’s just a short hop but feels like another world. The houses are all those wild colors you see in postcards, but brighter somehow when you’re right there. Lucia led us down an alley where laundry flapped overhead and an old woman nodded from her doorway. We stopped for “bussolai” cookies (I ate two before anyone noticed), buttery and sweet with this hint of lemon that lingers on your tongue. In the lace workshop Anna showed us her hands — honestly, they moved so fast I couldn’t keep up. She laughed when I tried to say “merletto” properly; probably butchered it.

The ride back was quieter. Sun flickered on the water and for a second everything felt suspended — Venice ahead of us again but now it looked different somehow, softer maybe? I kept thinking about that moment in the glass factory when time seemed to slow down around the fire. If you’re looking for a day trip from Venice that doesn’t feel rushed or staged — well, this was it for me.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Murano and Burano islands

• Private boat from Venice to Murano
• Watch master glassblower show
• Boat crossing to Burano island
• Walk around colorful Burano houses
• Taste typical bussolai cookies
• Visit historic lace-making atelier
• Return to Venice by private boat

Top questions

How long does the Murano & Burano private boat tour take?

The tour is designed as a day trip from Venice, including travel by private boat between islands.

Is pickup included for this tour?

Yes, private transportation by boat is included from Venice.

Do we visit an actual Murano glass factory?

Yes, you’ll have a private visit to the oldest original Murano Glass Factory with a live glassblowing show.

Will there be food or snacks during the tour?

You’ll taste traditional “bussolai” cookies on Burano island as part of the experience.

Is there a guided demonstration of lace making?

Yes, you’ll visit an historic hand-made lace workshop in Burano with a demonstration by Anna.

Are infants or strollers allowed on this tour?

The tour is suitable for all fitness levels and infants or small children can ride in a pram or stroller.

Is public transportation available nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available near pickup points in Venice.

Do travelers need to pay any extra fees to enter Venice?

On certain dates visitors staying outside Venice may need to pay a €5 access fee; check official sources for details.

What’s included

Your day includes private transportation by boat from Venice across the lagoon to both Murano and Burano islands, entry into an original Murano Glass Factory with a live glassblowing show led by one of the masters of the island, guided walks through colorful Burano including tasting traditional bussolai cookies along narrow lanes, plus an insightful visit inside an historic hand-made lace workshop where you’ll meet Anna for a live demonstration before returning comfortably by boat to Venice again.