Murano & Burano Islands Guided Small-Group Tour by Private Boat
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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.
Your experience
Stop 1
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.
Stop 2
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.
What’s included
- Small Group of 22 people or fewer
- Round-trip transportation by private boat just for your group
- Expert, English-speaking local guide for the whole tour
- High-quality headset for clear audio and seamless commentary
- Discount at the glass gallery where the demonstration is given
- Glassmaking & lacemaking demonstrations
Not included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Gratuities
Meeting and 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.
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.
Check the policy for your selected date and option before booking.
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