Excursion Murano & burano islands tour at Venice

Experience the centuries-old glass-blowing and lace production traditions of Venice during this picturesque sightseeing tour of Murano and Burano. The island of Murano became famous in 1291, the year in which the glass production was transferred here from the old city centre due to fear of fires in the kilns. Burano is one of the prettiest islands in the lagoon: it is a miniature Venice where all the houses are painted in bright colors. Burano is famous for its lace work, an art carried out since the sixteenth century and which is famous worldwide.

The Venetian lagoon, created by the estuaries of three rivers and separated from the Adriatic by a row of sandbars, is approximately 32 miles (51 kilometres) long. Venice lays in the centre, along with some 40 other islands in the lagoon. Nearly half of them are deserted, and some house market gardens or sanatoriums.

Depart the pier via motorboat for a cruise along the lagoon en route to the island of Murano.

Murano

In 1291, when furnaces were banned from Venice as a fire precaution, the manufacture of exquisite glassware was transferred to Murano. During Murano's Golden Age in the 16th century, the island supported some 37 glass factories and a population of 30,000. Since glassware was one of few Venetian exports, its secrets were closely guarded. Although its production is no longer a mystery, Murano's products are still renowned for their elegant artistry. During a visit to a leading glass factory, witness the masters of this delicate craft at work during a brief demonstration of this fascinating process.

Burano

Continue on to the island of Burano, where beautifully painted houses adorn this small and cheerful fishing village. The banks of the canals are lined with fishing dories, and the setting is picturesque indeed. Next to the 16th-century Church of San Martino is the curiously-tilted campanile. In the 16th century, the island was renowned throughout Europe for producing the finest lace in the world. Although not a popular craft these days, lacemaking is still practised by some of the local women.

Following your visit, re-board your motorboat for the ride back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion may include: Murano Island, Glass-blowing Demonstration, Burano Island, Church of San Martino

Note

Please note: This tour requires an extensive amount of walking. Although many sights are wheelchair accessible, guests must be able to embark and disembark motor launches that sit low in the water. Casual attire and flat, comfortable walking shoes are recommended. The order of sites visited may vary. A minimum number of participants are required for this tour to operate. We suggest you book early to avoid disappointment.