Duration: 5 hours
Type of Service: Half Day Venetian Islands: Murano Glassblowing and Burano Lacemaking - group tour
Most first-time visitors to Venice spend the majority of their time around its famous Saint Mark's Square. Those with a bit more time in Italy also fit in a visit to Murano, a nearby island. This is the place to go if you're interested in the famed Murano glass, where you can watch a demonstration of glass making and maybe buy a Venetian glass souvenir or two.
Burano has been occupied from the 6th century, but it only became important in the 16th century, when women on the island began making lace with needles and it became popular among the European elite. It’s a fine art form and takes an incredible amount of patience and time to create. So as you can imagine, it’s a luxury few can afford. Most of the lace that's for sale in souvenir shops are affordable, so it's not created by hand. Still, it's beautiful and the shops are worth visiting.
Venetian Islands Tour: Murano Glassblowing & Burano Lacemaking - No trip to Venice is complete without discovering the Venetian Lagoon's two most cherished islands. This half-day trip to Murano from Venice with Burano offers perks not usually found on other group tours, like transport by private water taxi and a dedicated guide throughout. Gain perspective on the ageless arts of glassblowing and lacemaking and the mastery of artisans, as well as delight in the unique charm of the tranquil canals and piazzas.
Take a Private Water Taxi to Murano - Once you reach the meeting point in central Venice, you'll be whisked off to Murano to see its world-famous blown glass. On the way, admire the 'City of Bridges' from the water with sweeping views and entertaining commentary from your guide as you get ready to witness the magic of Murano glass.
All glassmaking was moved to this tiny group of islands in the Middle Ages, and it was the only place where mirrors were made for centuries. Techniques were so secret that perpetrators risked execution for leaking them. Times have changed, but you'll behold exactly what has made Murano glass so sought after for nearly 750 years.
Learn More with our Expert Guides - Upon arrival, you'll dock at a specially chosen glassblowing workshop where you'll marvel as craftsmen shape molten glass into dazzling works of art. See these sparkling treasures come to life as you learn how colors and the most ambitious shapes come to be. You can also browse in the gallery, or shop with our discount. Afterward, explore Murano to enjoy its sleepy canals and San Donato church, a stunning example of Byzantine architecture, without being hurried.
Discover the Finest Handmade Lace at Burano - The next stop on your Venice cruise is Burano. Considered by many as one of the most colorful places in the world, this small fishing community with its brightly colored houses also has some of the finest handmade lace anywhere. Watch this cultural tradition in action as women stitch by hand, like countless generations before them. After the demonstration, you will have free time to visit the lace museum, stroll Burano's vibrant waterways, or shop for souvenirs.
Things to Know:
- Explore the islands of Murano and Burano with an English-speaking tour guide
- Learn about Murano’s rich history and glass-making heritage Admire the brightly painted houses of Burano island
- Travel by motorboat and see the sights from the water
- A great introduction to Venice for first-time visitors
- Plenty of free time to stroll around the island and enjoy the peaceful environment
- Tour offered daily - 7 days @ week based on availability
- Tour times are at 8:15am, 1:45pm and 2:30pm
- Meeting Point: Central Venice: Vittorio Emanuele II Monument - more details upon booking
- Wear comfortable walking shoes
- Group Tour of 30 people or less