The best way to visit Murano is on a boat tour of the Venice islands. These tours make stops on Murano to see traditional glassblowing, the island of Burano, famous for its lace-making, and Torcello, believed to be the first populated island in the Venetian lagoon. Private tours let you enjoy a boat ride across the lagoon, visits to artisan workshops and factories accompanied by an expert tour guide, and a bit of free time for shopping and exploring without having to navigate Venice’s complex vaporetto (ferry) system between the islands.
Murano glassblowing and Burano lace-making demonstrations make for great photos.
Both Murano glass and Burano lace are famous for their impeccable craftsmanship—and prices reflect that. Be wary of “bargain” prices, which often mean counterfeit goods.
Murano’s glass shops are known for their hard-sell techniques, which can be uncomfortable. To avoid being strong-armed, always book your Venice islands tour through a reputable company.
If visiting without a tour, from St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco), take vaporetto (ferry) 4.1 from the San Zaccaria stop, or a private water taxi from the Grand Canal boat launch, just steps from St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace.
The Venice islands are most crowded in the summer. From November through February, Venice is relatively quiet, though the temperatures can make for a chilly boat trip across the lagoon.
Murano’s Basilica di Santa Maria e San Donato, one of the oldest in Venice, is famous for its exquisite Byzantine mosaics. It’s also known for what’s on display behind the altar: four massive rib bones said to be from a dragon slain by St. Donatus in Greece.
