Venice: Murano Glass & Burano Lace Islands Private Boat Tour

Summary

Murano’s glass heat and Burano’s painted houses on a slow lagoon day

You’ll cross Venice’s lagoon by private boat with a local guide, watching Murano’s glassblowers shape fire into art and wandering through Burano’s painted lanes where lace makers work by hand. Enjoy a crisp glass of wine by the canal and let yourself drift between centuries-old cathedrals and fishermen’s homes—this day is more about feeling than ticking off sights.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered if those photos of Burano’s houses are really that bright? We did too, until we found ourselves squinting at the real thing from the deck of our private boat. The lagoon air smelled faintly salty, and our guide, Chiara, pointed out tiny fishing boats gliding past as we left Venice behind. I kept thinking how close everything looked on the map, but it actually felt like we were slipping into another world — slower, softer. There was this weird moment when the city noise just faded and all you could hear was water slapping against wood.

First stop: Murano. I’d heard about the glassblowing before but never realized how hot it gets in those old workshops. The master didn’t speak much English (Chiara translated), but his hands told the story anyway — twisting molten glass into something delicate while we stood there sweating and slightly awestruck. The smell was sharp, almost metallic. They handed us a small glass to hold; it was still warm. I tried to say “grazie” properly but probably messed up the accent — got a smile anyway. We wandered over to Santi Maria e Donato after that, where the mosaics on the floor looked like they belonged in a different century (they do, actually).

Burano came next — I’m not sure what hit me first: the paintbox colors or the quiet hum of people talking in doorways. Our guide said families repaint their houses every year so nobody forgets which one is theirs (not sure if that’s true but it sounds right). We stopped for a glass of wine at some tiny place by the canal; tasted crisp and cold after all that sun. There were old ladies sitting outside working lace with fingers moving faster than mine ever could — I watched for a while before realizing I’d lost track of time completely.

The boat ride back felt slower somehow. Maybe it was just tiredness or maybe I didn’t want to leave yet — hard to tell. Venice came back into view all at once, gold light bouncing off windows. Sometimes I still think about those colored houses on Burano when things get gray at home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Venice lagoon, Murano, and Burano visit

• Meet local guide in Venice center
• Board private boat on Venice lagoon
• Admire lagoon from the boat
• Visit S. Maria and Donato Cathedral
• Explore Murano island on walking tour
• Visit old glass factory and watch glassblowing
• Free time for glass shopping
• Explore Burano fisherman village

Top questions

How long does the Murano & Burano tour take?

The tour is designed as a full day trip from Venice city center with several stops on both islands.

Is transport included from Venice to Murano & Burano?

Yes, transport by private boat is included throughout the tour.

Will we see live glassblowing in Murano?

Yes, you’ll visit an old glass factory in Murano to watch traditional blowing and sculpture techniques.

Are drinks or food included during the tour?

You’ll enjoy one glass of wine included during your visit.

Is this tour suitable for wheelchairs or strollers?

The tour is wheelchair accessible and infants or small children can ride in a pram or stroller.

Do we have free time for shopping in Murano?

Yes, there is free time for shopping at Murano’s Colleoni glass factory with a 20% discount offered.

What main sights are visited on this day trip?

You’ll see Santi Maria e Donato Cathedral in Murano and explore both Murano and Burano islands.

Are service animals allowed on this tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed during this experience.

What’s included

Your day includes transport by private boat from Venice city center with your local guide leading you through both Murano and Burano islands; entry to an old glass factory for live demonstrations; time inside Santi Maria e Donato Cathedral; free time for shopping (with 20% discount at Colleoni); plus one complimentary glass of wine before heading back across the lagoon together.