Murano & Burano Islands Guided Small-Group Tour by Private Boat
Overview
Available languages
5 hours
Mobile ticket
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.
Additional Info
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 on Mondays, the typical lacemaking demonstration in Burano may not always be available. In such event, the tour still offers a captivating exploration of the island that showcases its unique charm and rich cultural heritage. We appreciate your understanding
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)
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.
What‘s Included
Glassmaking demonstration in Murano
Round-trip transportation by private boat just for your group
Lacemaking demonstration in Burano
Enjoy a personal experience with an expert local guide in groups of up to 22.
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Gratuities
What To Expect
Isola di Murano
The enchanting islands of Murano and Burano are the perfect change of pace from Venice’s crowded streets and waterways. And the perfect way to reach them is by private water taxi. Faster and sturdier than a gondola, nimbler and less crowded than a waterbus, water taxis are the premier way to travel in Venice. Few visitors get to experience them, but yours is included, along with an expert local guide who’ll explain Venice’s history as a titan of trade along the way. Your first port of call is a specially chosen glassblowing workshop on Murano. In the Middle Ages, only Murano’s artisans possessed the secrets of this craft, and sharing them was punishable by execution. You’ll get to witness modern glassblowers wield those 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.
The locals of nearby Burano still maintain the island’s tradition of handmade lace, some of the finest anywhere in the world. You’ll get to observe lace being hand-stitched the way it has been for generations. Then visit the lace museum to see the island’s greatest work, or simply enjoy the photo opportunity provided by the colorful houses, brightly painted so sailors could see home as they returned from the sea. When you cross the lagoon back to Venice, you’ll have a renewed appreciation of the crafts that put the city on the map so long ago.
Options
Murano & Burano - Private
Murano & Burano - Private
Murano & Burano- Italian Group
Murano & Burano- English Group
Reviews
7,255 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Murano and Burano
Anne B,
Oct 8, 2025
- Viator
5.00We booked a private tour to Murano and Burano due to my husband’s accessibility issues. I can’t say enough about our personal guide Carrie! She was amazing and catered to all our needs. She had 2 men on the motor boat to assist my husband on and off the boat. It turned out to be a glorious day.
A Perfect Day with City Wonders and the Amazing Guide Carrie!
julia t,
Oct 8, 2025
- Viator
5.00I can’t say enough good things about our tour to Murano and Burano with City Wonders – it was truly a highlight of our trip! From start to finish, everything was seamless, well-organized, and incredibly enjoyable. Our guide, Carrie, was fantastic – knowledgeable, friendly, and full of great energy. She made the history of Venice, Murano, and Burano come alive in a way that was engaging and fun, without ever feeling like a lecture. She also gave us great tips on what to see, where to go, and how to make the most of our free time on the islands. The timing of the tour was perfect. We had just the right amount of time in both Murano and Burano – enough to enjoy the glass-blowing demonstration and browse the beautiful shops in Murano, and then leisurely stroll through the colorful streets of Burano, take photos, and grab a bite to eat. It never felt rushed, but it also didn’t drag on – a perfect balance! I would highly recommend this tour to anyone visiting Venice. It’s a great way to explore beyond the city and get a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and charm of the Venetian islands. I would absolutely do this again – especially with Carrie as our guide!
We loved visiting the...
Michele P,
Oct 7, 2025
- Viator
5.00We loved visiting the islands. Both the glass making and lace making demonstrations were great. Frankie our tour guide was excellent.
M&b
Brenda G,
Oct 7, 2025
- Viator
5.00Tour leader Frankie knowable, friendly,. Shopping at stores tour company takes group to. Can walk around other shops on own.
Benedetta was an...
Dale L,
Oct 7, 2025
- Viator
5.00Benedetta was an outstanding guide. Provided interesting information about Venice, Murano and Burano. Loved hearing about the lagoon and all the different islands. Nice to get away from the crowds in Venice.
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Operated by City Wonders Ltd