Want to plan a Venice day trip to Murano and Burano Islands? We got you covered! In this post, we will share a detailed transportation guide with handpicked Murano and Burano Islands tours that you can embark on with ease!
Both Burano and Murano are two of the most important islands in the Venetian Lagoon, located in Italy. Murano is known for its glass-making industry, which has been a mainstay of the local economy since the 12th century.
While Burano is renowned for its brightly colored houses and beautiful lacemaking craft. The island’s canals are lined with colorful buildings that add to the unique charm of this small island town.
Planning a Day Trip to Murano and Burano: Islands Tours and Travel Tips
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BEST MURANO AND BURANO ISLANDS TOUR
Our pick is the 3 Islands Tour from Venice because it’s the most popular excursion covering not only the 2 Venetian Islands but 3 with Torcello. And this day tour also offers ample time to explore on your own and also attend a glass making workshop.
Getting to Murano and Burano Islands is easy from the heart of Venice. The cheapest way to get to Murano and Burano Islands is to take the Vaporetto or a public water bus.
From Venice, the Vaporetto will stop in Murano first and then take you to Burano. You can get on the 12 lines from the Vaporetto stop – Fondamente Nove – in the Old Town of Venice.
You can explore Murano, and then ride on the same Vaporetto line to get to Burano.
- Total travel time is 45 minutes
- Venice to Murano is 15 minutes
- Murano to Burano Islands is another 30 minutes
Vaporettos leave every 20 to 30 minutes to the Venetian Islands. Schedules can be found here.
Vaporettos Ticket Cost – Public transport
- €7.50 each Vaporetto ride
- €15 (Round trip to Burano)
- €22.50 (Round trip with a stop in Murano)
- €20 (with 1-day Venice Travel Card)
(Read below to find day tours for $26 USD per person and above)
Although this is an affordable option, the Vaporettos are extremely crowded during the peak summer months. Lines to board the Vaporetto can be long, and you may be wasting precious time.
So, another alternative is to opt for a day tour where a local guide will take you to 2 to 3 Venetian Islands and allow you to explore comfortably. Plus each sightseeing tour also includes some great add-ons like a glassblowing workshop, visiting local lace makers, and more.
Here are our favorites!
1. Venice: Burano, Torcello & Murano Boat Tour w/Glassblowing (6 hours)
➤ BOOK this Burano, Torcello & Murano Boat Tour w/Glassblowing
♡ RATING: 4.2 Out of 5 stars – with more than 1325 positive reviews
Tour Highlights
- ☑ Round trip transportation on a panoramic motorboat
- ☑ Visit Murano Island, Burano Island, and Torcello
- ☑ Glassblowing demonstration in Murano
- ☑ Visit a glass factory on Murano Islands
- ☑ 20% off discount at the Murano Glass Factory
- ☑ Free time in Burano
- ☑ Free time in Torcello
- ☑ Free time in Torcello
- ☑ Multilingual assistance. Book the tour in English, Spanish, French, Italian, or German
- ☑ Start time: 11:00 am
- ☑ Meeting Place: Riva degli Schiavoni
Why choose this tour?
Embark on a 6-hour guided sightseeing tour of 3 Venetian Islands – Murano, Burano, and Torcello. Beat the crowds on this panoramic vessel, a boat tour, and learn all about the Islands and more (in a language of your choice).
This day tour takes off from St. Mark’s Piazza – so it is super easy to locate the meeting point.
After cruising for 30 minutes, you will arrive at the first island – Murano. Enjoy a glass-blowing demonstration here with a glass master accompanied by a historical explanation of the craft.
Then browse items at a nearby store at the glass factory or enjoy your free time. From Murano make your way to Torcello.
Spend an hour in Torcello, and check off landmarks such as the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, Attila’s Throne, the Devil’s Bridge, and the Bell Tower. You can also break for a bite to eat here.
Finish off the day tour at Burano. Wander the quaint and colorful houses that dot the island and visit lace stores. You can stop for a gelato before returning to Venice Old Town.
Guest Review: “Amazing day out. I would definitely recommend it. The glass blowing master is phenomenal. He is so talented that you can see the emotion in everyone’s faces and their eyes. I was in awe watching him. when we went into the glass shop, I was like a child in a sweetie shop! Next stop Burano, oh my oh my, it was so colourful, and so pretty it was like a film set for a Disney musical! I was transfixed watching a wonderful lady making lace, so I had to buy a delicate scarf. After a spot of lunch, we sailed onto Torcello. It’s a beautiful little island with not so many residents now, but those who still inhabit the island make us visitors very welcome. The tour guide was very informative throughout the journey, and on each island, we were given free time, though not enough. We were blessed with amazing weather. I’d highly recommend this tour, well worth every single penny! Well done to everyone involved.” – GetYourGuide Traveler
2. Private Excursion by Typical Venetian Motorboat to Murano, Burano, and Torcello (4.5 hours)
➤ BOOK this Private Excursion to Murano, Burano and Torcello
♡ RATING: 4.5 Out of 5 stars – with more than 230 positive reviews
Tour Highlights
- ☑ Private half day tour from Venice
- ☑ Customizable Itinerary
- ☑ Visit 3 Venetian Islands
- ☑ Glass factory and demonstration in Murano
- ☑ Walking tour in Burano
- ☑ Sightseeing in Torcello
- ☑ Hotel pick up and drop off
- ☑ Start time: 10:00 am or later (morning), 01:00 or 02:00 pm (afternoon)
- ☑ Meeting Place: Your accommodation in Venice
Why choose this tour?
This half day PRIVATE tour is AMAZING! You will be picked up and dropped off from your Venice accommodation whilst enjoying the ride to three Venetian Islands.
The ride takes off on a typical Venetian motorboat with stops in Murano, Burano, and Torcello! This tour can be completely customizable to suit your tastes.
Plus you will have the personalized attention of a private boat captain.
You will check off the highlights such as a glass factory stop, tasting delectable biscuits on the lacemaking island of Burano, and sightseeing in Torcello (Venice’s first settlement).
Guest Review: “Great way to see the islands. Lots of flexibility and the guide helped us see just want we wanted to see!” – Viator Traveler
3. Private Murano and Burano VIP Venice Boat Tour – Luxury (4.5 hours)
➤ BOOK this Private Murano and Burano VIP Venice Boat Tour
♡ RATING: 4.6 Out of 5 stars – with more than 630 positive reviews
Tour Highlights
- ☑ Half day tour
- ☑ Private experience for you and your party
- ☑ VIP tour on a luxury boat and complimentary coffee
- ☑ Walking tour in Burano
- ☑ Glass making workshop in Murano
- ☑ Start time: 01:00 pm, 01:30 pm, or 02:00 pm (afternoon)
- ☑ Meeting Place: St Mark’s Square, Venice
Why choose this tour?
If you want to enjoy the Venetian Islands on a private tour, then this is the excursion to book. This is a half-day tour which you can reserve just for yourself and your party (up to 8 people maximum) – no other members of the public!
The English-speaking guide is all for your assistance. You will be on a VIP boat, enjoying the views and complimentary coffee as you cruise around the Venetian lagoon and learn about the history of Murano’s history of glass blowing and Burano’s traditional lace making.
What’s amazing is that you can wander the lanes of Burano and Murano with ease – without being rushed. The tour includes round-trip transfers as well as a walking tour of Burano, and a Murano glass-blowing demonstration.
Guest Review: “Edi was an excellent tour guide for our trip to Murano and Burano. She provided wonderful history and insider tips on the locations. We would definitely go again!” – Viator Traveler
4. From Venice: Murano & Burano Islands Boat Tour (5.5 hours)
➤ BOOK Murano and Burano Islands Tour from Venice
♡ RATING: 4.6 Out of 5 stars – with more than 630 positive reviews
Tour Highlights
- ☑ Round trip transportation on a boat
- ☑ Sightseeing in Murano and Burano Islands
- ☑ Glassmaking demonstration at the Murano Factory
- ☑ Lacemaking demonstration at a shop in Burano
- ☑ Discounts at stores
- ☑ Start time: 02:00 pm or 2:30 pm (afternoon)
- ☑ Meeting Place: Riva degli Schiavoni
Why choose this tour?
Explore the quaint streets of Burano and attend lace-making workshops on this day tour. You will have ample time for photos or just to walk around and grab a bite to eat.
In Murano, you will attend a glassblowing workshop which is amazing to learn about this centuries-old tradition. See how silica sand becomes glass, and how the glass is given color. You can also pick up an Italian souvenir or two from either island to bring back home!
All workshops are conducted in English (you can choose the language when you check out on the tour) and there will be time to browse the huge collection of glass art and wander the island on your own.
This day tour excludes Torcello thus giving you extra time in both Islands.
Guest Review: “I thought this tour was planned extremely well and I’d actually say surpassed my expectations. Our tour guide Alessandra was lovely and funny too! She was knowledgeable on all the islands and helped keep it engaging with her humour. Both demonstrations were fascinating and we had plenty of free time after that made for a relaxing trip where you could explore. Although the glass was very expensive in the shop it was still lovely to just look, though photography isn’t allowed in the showroom. Also thank you Alessandra for the gelato recommendation, it was the cherry on top! (:” – GetYourGuide Traveler
5. Burano and Murano Boat Tour with Glass Factory Visit (4 hours)
➤ BOOK this Burano and Murano Boat Tour with Glass Factory Visit
♡ RATING: 4.2 Out of 5 stars – with more than 2580 positive reviews
Tour Highlights
- ☑ Round trip transportation from Venice Train Station or Old Town
- ☑ Half day tour (perfect to accommodate a fast-paced Venice itinerary)
- ☑ Sightseeing in Burano
- ☑ Sightseeing in Murano with glass making workshop
- ☑ Multiple schedules to fit your schedule
- ☑ Start time: 11:00 am (morning) or 01:00 pm (afternoon)
- ☑ Meeting Place: Centre or Riva degli Schiavoni (depends on the schedule chosen)
Why choose this tour?
One of the benefits of this boat tour to the islands of Murano and Burano is that it is all 4 hours – allowing you to see the highlights as well as attend a glass-making workshop.
You can opt to embark on the tour from the Venice Train Station or from Riva degli Schiavoni.
The boat tour from Riva degli Schiavoni leaves in the morning or afternoon – so you have the flexibility to add the trip to Venetian Islands to your 2 day Venice itinerary.
You will sail on a comfortable vessel, and explore the islands at your leisure. The only set schedule is for you to attend the workshop on glass-making in Murano and a visit to the glass factory.
The rest of the time is all yours to wander, take photos and explore.
Take the time to admire the colorful houses of Burano and take a stroll through the picturesque streets before returning to Venice (the same drop-off location as your departure).
Guest Review: “The tour was mentioned in the description. some tips to get more from this tour In Murano 1. Once the glass demo is over, start your tour outside the village. Don’t spend too much time in the souvenir shop in the factory. The prices in the factory are double compared to the other shops in the village. 2. Around the cannel, a lot of glass shops are there and they are quite good and cheap also. In Burano Had good amount of time and roam all around. dont stuck in the main shop street, get inside the narrow streets and you could find some best spots for photos.” – GetYourGuide Traveler
6. Venice: Lagoon Islands Hop-on Hop-off Boat Tour (24 to 48 hours validity)
➤ BOOK this Venice to Lagoon Islands Hop-on Hop-off Boat Tour
♡ RATING: 4.2 Out of 5 stars – with more than 630 positive reviews
Tour Highlights
- ☑ Hop-on hop-off boat tour
- ☑ 7 different stops to choose from including Burano, Murano, and Torcello
- ☑ Glassmaking show in Murano
- ☑ Audio guide available in 5 different languages
- ☑ Tickets valid for 24 or 48 hours
- ☑ Meeting Place: Venice – Santa Lucia Central Station
Why choose this tour?
This hop on and hop off style sightseeing ticket is perfect if you wish to explore all the islands with ease and at your own pace. The tickets are valid for 24 or 48 hours and take off from Venice Central Station.
So you will embark from the Santa Lucia Central Station, and hop on the boat to get to the heart of Venice. You can explore St. Mark’s Square, see the Grand Canal, and then enjoy the boat ride to the Islands.
This boat is equipped with large windows and open spaces which will allow you to sightsee from the comfort of your seat!
As part of the hop-on and hop-off ticket, you will also get free access to a glassmaking demonstration in Murano. You will have ample time to explore the bright colorful houses and lace production in Burano and also walk the quaint lanes of Torcello.
Additional stops with this ticket include Punta Sabbioni, or Zattere by the Canale della Giudecca, where you can learn the art of gondola-making.
Guest Review: “Best trip in Venice, if not the Gondola ride. I was looking for a Lagoon tour, but then I found this hop on and hop off. And I must say it is the best way you can visit the Laguna Islands. The boats are scheduled every hour from every Island and you can hop on any boat anytime you want, also it is always on time. This is the best option you can get in this amount for visiting lagoon tours.” – GetYourGuide Traveler
7. The Secret Corners of Burano (1 hour 20 minutes)
➤ BOOK the Secret Corners of Burano tour
♡ RATING: 5 Out of 5 stars – with more than 20 positive reviews
Tour Highlights
- ☑ Short walking tour of 1 hour and 20 minutes
- ☑ Learn with a local born and raised on the islands
- ☑ Start time: 10:30 am
- ☑ Meeting Place: Burano
Why choose this tour?
Join an intimate and one-hour in-depth tour of Burano and its hidden gems. You will get to learn the history and unique customs of the UNESCO World Heritage–listed locale from a guide born and raised on the island.
Stops include colorful fishermen’s homes, landmarks such as a leaning church bell tower, and the famous Burano lace with a live demonstration.
After the tour, you can stay back in Burano and explore the colorful island yourself
Guest Review: “Silvia is amazing. We picked the one day that was pouring rain and freezing. My fiancée and I somehow barely noticed in the tour. With Silvia it was like meeting up with a friend who happens to know everything about the city. It was the most natural and interactive feeling tour I’ve ever been on. She clearly loves (and knows seemingly everything, and everyone in) the city. She’s also very prepared and showed up happy to guide; even in the pouring rain – complete with laminated images that helped us understand the history. We could not recommend her more highly.” – Viator Traveler
8. Island hopping tour: Mazzorbo, Burano, and Murano (4.5 hours)
➤ BOOK this Island hopping tour: Mazzorbo, Burano, and Murano
♡ RATING: 5 Out of 5 stars – with 20 positive reviews
Tour Highlights
- ☑ Half day tour
- ☑ Visit 3 Venetian Islands
- ☑ Explore Burano, Murano and Mazzorbo
- ☑ Visit the Tenuta Venissa vineyard
- ☑ Attend the glass-making workshop in Murano
- ☑ Sightseeing in Burano
- ☑ Start time: Morning or Afternoon tours are available
- ☑ Meeting Place: Combo, Venezia
Why choose this tour?
Explore three Venetian Islands of Burano Murano, and Mazzorbo. In Mazzorbo, you can explore the peaceful vineyards and a monastery.
At the Tenuta Venissa vineyard, you will learn about the Venetian Dorona grapes and the wine-making process.
The day tour covers the usual stops in Burano, and Murano along with the glassmaking demonstration.
Guest Review: “We really enjoyed this tour. Valerio is a great host and I very much appreciated that he took us to places that gave us a feel for how people actually live on the islands. Seeing the garden in Mazzorbo was truly a breath of fresh air. It was also interesting to get the perspective of someone who actually lives on one of the islands.” – Viator Traveler
9. Private Kayak Tour in the Venetian Lagoon
➤ BOOK this Private Kayak Tour in the Venetian Lagoon
♡ RATING: 5 Out of 5 stars – with more than 13 positive reviews
Tour Highlights
- ☑ 2 hour kayaking experience
- ☑ Offbeat and unique tour to see hidden gems
- ☑ Offered in 3 languages (with a guide)
- ☑ Start time: 09:00 am
- ☑ Meeting place: Burano ferry drop off
Why choose this tour?
This is a unique tour in which you will explore the city’s lagoons through ghebi and sandbanks to visit islands that are only accessible by kayak.
You will be kayaking and admiring the deserted islands while watching egrets and herons in their natural habitat. The tour also includes a stop at the home of Venetian rowing at the Rowing Association Vogaepara to learn about gondola techniques.
The excursion ends at the Isola Torcello to discover the history of Venetian settlement.
Things to do and see on a day trip to Murano and Burano Islands: Tour experience
We will share a start to finish Murano and Burano tour below.
Your tour takes off from the meeting point (like the Central Train Station, St Mark’s Square, or the Riva degli Schiavoni).
The advantage of the small group and private tours is that you will be using a boat to get to the islands – this boat will be reserved just for the tour participants!
On the way, the tour guide shares informative details and the history of the Venetian Islands and also provides a quick rundown of the day trip itinerary.
We visited 3 islands on our day tour. We started off at Murano, Torcello, and finally in Burano.
Whether you take a small group tour, water taxi, or ferry ride, once you have arrived in Torcello, Murano, and Burano, you can easily explore the islands on foot.
Depending on your tour inclusions, you will enjoy a Murano glass-making workshop, a walking tour of Burano, a tour of vineyards, sightseeing in Torcello, and more.
Read our Italy travel itineraries: 7 day in Italy | 2 week Italy itinerary with Amalfi Coast
How many islands in Venice
Venice is sited on a group of 117 small islands that are separated by canals and linked by bridges.
The 3 islands off Venice are Murano, Burano, and Torcello – and they make perfect day trips from Venice.
History of Burano Murano and Torcello
Murano and Burano are two of the most iconic islands in Italy. Located near Venice, these islands have a long history stretching back to the 6th century.
Murano was first settled by the Romans and is believed to have been founded between the 5th and the 7th century, but it experienced its major developments in the late 13th century. This is the time when glass furnaces were moved here from Venice.
And as you know Murano is best known for its glass-making industry, which began in the 14th century. Initially, Murano was renowned for producing high-quality mirrors and chandeliers.
By the 16th century, Murano’s glass-making industry had become one of the most important in Europe and had helped to make Venice an important trading port. We recommend visiting the factories and glass museum to learn more about their history and contributions to the art.
Burano is best known for its brightly colored houses, which are said to have been painted with different colors so that fishermen could more easily recognize their homes when returning home from a long day at sea. The first houses made of bricks were built around the year 1000.
Burano is also known for its lace-making industry, which began in the 16th century and still continues today.
The islands of Murano and Burano are popular tourist destinations due to their beauty, history, and culture. They are a testament to Venice’s long history as an important trading center in Europe.
These two islands offer a unique glimpse into the past and a wonderful opportunity to experience Venetian culture. They are truly two of Italy’s most remarkable destinations.
Torcello is also an island, located at the northern end of the Venetian Lagoon. If you add one of the Venice tours to explore Torcello then you must visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, which was established in 639.
Another important highlight of Torcello is Attila’s Throne. It is believed that this chair was used by Attila, King of the Huns. This is an ancient chair made of stone – located in the main square of the town of Torcello!
What to buy in Murano Burano Torcello
By now, you know already that all of the islands have something special to offer. So make some room for the following souvenir items
- Murano glass items: Buy authentic Murano glass items like decor pieces, pendants, or any other jewelry. I picked up a nice pendant and it held up really well!
- Burano lace: Lace items like table cloth, etc are perfect to bring back from Burano. (Try gelatos in Burano while wandering its pretty lanes – they are yum!)
- Torcello: Pick monuments or works of art linked to the Venice lagoon or Venetian tradition
Can you see Murano, Burano, and Torcello in one day
Yes, it is totally possible to explore all three Venice islands in one day with or without a tour. And if you start early you can also capture the pretty lanes of Venice and the view of Basilica di Santa Maria della and the canal water minus the crowds.
Start from Venice (you can use the following stops with or without a tour, as you will be given free time to explore),
Murano: Travel time to Murano is 15 minutes from Venice
It begins with a short boat ride from Venice to Murano, where you can explore the glass-making factories, historic churches, and winding canals.
After arriving in Murano, visit one of the glass factories and attend a demonstration. You can pick up souvenirs at the workshop or in any of the shops nearby.
Take a walk through the quaint lanes and alleyways. Later visit the Basilica dei Santi Maria e Donato. The Church of Santa Maria e San Donato is a religious edifice located in Murano and is one of the must visit attractions on the island.
Burano: Travel time to Burano is 30 minutes from Murano
After exploring Murano, you will then take a short boat ride to Burano, where you can stroll through its colorful streets, visit quaint lace shops, and admire the view of the surrounding islands.
Take the time to photograph the cute lanes, eat gelato and grab lunch!
As you journey between these two islands in one day, you will have plenty of time to take in the incredible views, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, and discover unique artisans’ workshops.
Torcello: Travel time to Torcello is 5 minutes from Burano
Torcello is 5 minutes away from Burano. There are two important attractions that you must hit before returning to Venice.
One of them is the Torcello Cathedral or the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, which was established in 639. There is an entry fee to enter.
Another attraction is Attila’s Throne, the ancient stone chair located in the main square of the town of Torcello!
Plan to spend 1 to 2 hours on each island (3 to 6 hours of sightseeing), and then add 1.50 for travel time.
Is Murano and Burano worth visiting?
Absolutely! Murano and Burano are definitely worth visiting for anyone looking to experience the unique history and culture of Venice. This day trip truly wraps up the sightseeing of Venezia.
The island of Murano is renowned for its centuries-old glass-making industry, offering visitors the chance to learn about traditional methods and observe firsthand how artisans create intricate works of art.
Meanwhile, Burano has become famous for its brightly colored houses and intricate lacemaking craft. Exploring the winding streets and sampling some delicious seafood dishes in one of the local restaurants is a must when visiting Burano.
Additionally, both islands offer breathtaking views of Venice’s lagoon, making them a great destination for landscape photography.
With its rich history and vibrant atmosphere, it’s easy to understand why these two islands remain so popular with tourists from North America and all around the world.
Read more of our Italy travel guides:
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