Murano & Burano Islands Guided Small-Group Tour by Private Boat

About this experience

Cruise the Venetian Lagoon by private water taxi and meet the artisans keeping Venice’s traditional crafts alive. You’ll see demonstrations of traditional glassblowing on the island of Murano, and traditional lacemaking on Burano. The tour includes discounts on souvenirs from both demonstration workshops. Both islands have plenty to see, and you’ll have ample time to explore.

What to expect

1. Stop 1 · 2h 30min

   The enchanting islands of Murano and Burano are a refreshing escape from Venice’s busy streets and canals. The easiest way to reach them is by private water taxi. Faster and sturdier than a gondola, and far less crowded than a waterbus, it’s a premium Venice experience included in your tour, along with your expert local guide sharing stories of Venice’s trading past along the way. Your first stop is a specially chosen glassblowing workshop on Murano. In the Middle Ages, Murano's artisans alone held this craft's secrets, and sharing them was punishable. This stop, including boat transfers, guided time, and island time, lasts about 2 hours 30 minutes. You’ll see modern glassblowers using these once secret techniques, shaping delicate and dazzling works of art from molten glass. Then admire the workshop’s finest work in its gallery and perhaps take home a piece of your own -with a tour discount. Or explore more of Murano, including its peaceful canals and stunning Byzantine church.

2. Stop 2 · 2h 30min

   The locals of Burano continue the island’s centuries old lace making tradition, producing some of the finest handmade lace in the world. You’ll see artisans at work before visiting the lace museum or enjoying time to explore at your own pace. The island is famous for its brightly painted houses, originally designed so fishermen could spot home from the sea. Your experience here, including boat travel, guided time, and free time on the island, lasts about 2 hours 30 minutes. As you return across the lagoon to Venice, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation of the craftsmanship that shaped the city’s history.

Tour & ticket options

Options may have different inclusions and meeting points. Choose your option when booking on Viator.

Meeting & pickup

• Meet at the statue of a man on horseback (Vittorio Emanuele II) on Riva degli Schiavoni, in front of the lagoon by the San Zaccaria vaporetto stop. Search for the waterfront monument, not nearby streets or hotels. Your guide will be holding a City Wonders flag or sign.

End point

• In front of Hotel Gabrielli Sandwirth (near San Marco).

• The Municipality of Venice has introduced an Access Fee that applies on specific dates. To avoid any inconvenience, we recommend checking the official guidelines and completing the necessary registration through the provided link before your visit. (https://cda.ve.it/en/ Official Link for Registration) • Please be ready at least 20 minutes prior to departure time. We recommend that customers who are not familiar with Venice give themselves ample time to find our meeting point. • Please make sure to head to the meeting point at the Monument to Victor Emmanuel II, Riva degli Schiavoni, 30100 Venezia VE, Italy https://maps.app.goo.gl/fHt4q1sdn4o6bP15A • Our City Wonders guides will have a City Wonders sign with the name of the tour at the meeting point for easy recognition. • Gratuities for your guide/driver that provided excellent service are appreciated! • City Wonders is not responsible for any personal belongings that are lost or damaged. Guests should ensure they keep track of their items throughout the entire duration of the tour. Please note that any additional shipping costs related to retrieved items will not be covered by City Wonders. Disclaimer: • Please note that on Mondays, the typical lacemaking demonstration in Burano may not always be available. In such event, the tour still offers a captivating exploration of the island that showcases its unique charm and rich cultural heritage. We appreciate your understanding

Before you go

• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
• Please note that the order of island visits and demonstrations may vary due to local conditions and availability. Glassblowing and lace-making demonstrations are hosted by working artisans and may change without notice. The tour operates in all weather and involves moderate walking.
• The Municipality of Venice has introduced an Access Fee that applies on specific dates. To avoid any inconvenience, we recommend checking the official guidelines and completing the necessary registration through the provided link before your visit. (https://cda.ve.it/en/ Official Link for Registration)
• Important: Total time per stop includes boat transfers between Venice and the islands, guided activities, and free time on each island.
• Please note that from November to March, the lace-making demonstration may not be available on Mondays. In such cases, we will do our best to provide a comparable alternative experience.
• Some sites visited lack shade and can be hot under direct sunlight. We recommend bringing a hat, sunscreen and a bottle of water in warm weather.

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.