Venture on a captivating half-day tour that transports you to the enchanting islands of Murano and Burano, where the essence of Venetian culture comes alive. Enjoy the vibrant charm of Burano’s colorful houses and uncover the fascinating history of its fishing village. Then, indulge in a delightful wine tasting experience at the renowned Venissa vineyard, where you’ll savor unique wines paired with homemade snacks. But that’s not all – witness the centuries-old art of glassblowing in Murano, a true testament to the region’s artisanal heritage. This curated tour promises an unforgettable journey that will leave you yearning to discover more.
Good To Know
- A half-day tour that visits the Venetian islands of Murano and Burano, offering a scenic boat ride, guided exploration, and a wine tasting experience.
- The tour provides an intimate group size of up to 20 guests and a high recommendation rate from past travelers.
- Highlights include a guided visit to Burano, known for its colorful, lace-trimmed houses, and a private wine tasting at the Venissa vineyard.
- The tour includes a private boat transfer, lunch, and a glassblowing demonstration showcasing the centuries-old craft of Murano’s renowned glassblowers.
- The tour is not wheelchair accessible but is near public transportation, and guests are advised to check for any regulatory updates.
It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.
Tour Overview
The "Venice: Murano & Burano Islands Half Day Tour" offers travelers a captivating exploration of two of Venice’s most renowned islands, Murano and Burano.
This half-day excursion promises a maximum group size of 20 guests, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience. Departing at 8:30 AM, the tour includes a scenic 60-minute boat ride through the lagoon, a guided visit and free time on Burano Island to photograph its vibrant, painted houses, and a private wine tasting at the renowned Venissa vineyard.
Plus, guests will witness a captivating glassblowing demonstration in a restored church. With a 92% recommendation rate from past travelers, this tour promises an immersive glimpse into the unique cultural heritage of these Venetian islands.
Boat Ride to Burano
Upon departing from the meeting point, guests embark on a scenic 60-minute boat ride through the Venetian lagoon.
During the journey, a local guide provides historical context about the various island settlements that dot the waterways.
Travelers can admire the picturesque views as the boat glides across the calm, tranquil waters.
The boat ride offers a serene and relaxing start to the day’s adventure, setting the stage for the exploration of the charming islands of Murano and Burano.
This scenic water transfer is an integral part of the overall tour experience, allowing guests to fully enjoy the unique ambiance of the Venetian lagoon.
Burano Island Exploration
After the serene boat ride, guests step onto the charming island of Burano. Guided by a local expert, the group embarks on an exploration of the island’s vibrant charm.
-
Visitors wander through the labyrinth of colorful, lace-trimmed houses, each one a unique work of art.
-
The guide shares the fascinating history of Burano’s origins as a fishing village and its renowned lace-making tradition.
-
Guests have free time to capture the picture-perfect scenery, from the quaint canals to the iconic leaning bell tower.
-
The tour offers an immersive experience, allowing travelers to truly enjoy Burano’s enchanting atmosphere.
Vineyard Experience
From Burano, the tour ventures to the nearby Venissa vineyard, known for its production of the rare Dorona grape. Here, guests enjoy a private wine tasting in the Michelin Star restaurant’s tasting space, accompanied by homemade snacks. The Dorona grape, a prized local variety, thrives in the lagoon’s unique terroir, producing distinctive wines.
| Origins | Terroir | Flavors |
|---|---|---|
| Indigenous to the Venetian lagoon | Salty, mineral-rich soil | Citrus, floral, and saline notes |
| Cultivated exclusively at Venissa | Temperate climate | Balanced acidity and minerality |
This intimate tasting offers a chance to savor the rich history and flavors of the Venetian wine tradition.
Glassblowing Demonstration
Following the immersive wine tasting experience at Venissa vineyard, the tour heads to a private glassblowing demonstration in a restored church.
This enchanting display showcases the centuries-old craft of Murano’s renowned glassblowers. Visitors witness the skilled artisans deftly manipulating molten glass, transforming it into intricate, delicate works of art:
- Vibrant colors swirl and dance as the glassblower expertly shapes the material.
- Intricate patterns emerge, showcasing the artisan’s meticulous technique and creativity.
- The intense heat of the furnace creates a mesmerizing display, captivating the audience.
- Guests have the opportunity to observe the process up close and gain a deeper appreciation for this traditional Venetian art form.
Inclusions and Meeting Details
The tour package includes a private round-trip boat transfer, with lunch provided. Meeting for the tour takes place at the Niccolò Tommaseo statue in Campo Santo Stefano. The tour ends at the Piazza San Marco boat deck A in S. Marco-San Zaccaria.
| Meeting Point | End Point |
|---|---|
| Campo Santo Stefano, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy | S. Marco-San Zaccaria A, 30132 Venice, Italy |
Gratuities are not specified. The tour is near public transportation but not wheelchair accessible. Modest attire is required at the St. Francis Abbey. Guests should check local guidelines for any regulatory updates. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.
Additional Information
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is located near public transportation.
Guests should adhere to the dress code and cover their shoulders and knees when visiting St. Francis Abbey.
The tour complies with local government regulations, so travelers should refer to any updated guidelines before their visit.
Cancellations can be made up to 24 hours before the experience starts without penalty.
- The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but near public transportation.
- Dress code requires covering shoulders and knees at St. Francis Abbey.
- The tour complies with local government regulations; check for updates.
- Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.
Customer Reviews Summary
Travelers have generally rated the Venice: Murano & Burano Islands Half Day Tour highly, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on 12 reviews.
Positive feedback highlights the knowledgeable guides and the tour’s beautiful locations. However, some reviewers noted limited information during certain parts of the experience.
The tour seems to provide a satisfying glimpse into the unique Venetian islands, with a combination of guided exploration and independent discovery.
The wine tasting at the Venissa vineyard also appears to be a highlight, offering visitors a chance to sample rare Dorona grape wines in a Michelin Star restaurant setting.
Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.
- Experience Venice Like A Local: Small Group Cicchetti & Wine Tour
- Dolomite Mountains and Cortina Semi Private Day Trip From Venice
- Tour of The Real Hidden Venice
- Venice: St Marks Basilica After-Hours Tour With Optional Doges Palace
- Murano Glass Experience With a Visit to a Burano Lace Island
- Venice Sightseeing Walking Tour With a Local Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Walking Is Involved During the Tour?
The tour involves moderate walking, with guided visits and free time on Burano Island. Guests can expect to walk around the island to explore the vibrant, painted houses and take photos.
Can We Purchase Additional Items at the Venissa Vineyard?
Visitors can purchase additional wine and other items at the Venissa vineyard during the wine tasting experience. The tasting is held in a Michelin Star restaurant’s tasting space and includes homemade snacks.
Are Children Allowed on the Tour?
The tour is open to all ages, but it’s not specifically designed for children. Families with young kids may find certain activities, like the wine tasting, less suitable. It’s advisable to consider the tour’s content when deciding if it’s appropriate for children.
Is Photography Permitted During the Glassblowing Demonstration?
Photography is permitted during the glassblowing demonstration. Visitors can take photos to capture the intricate art of glassblowing, though they should avoid using flash to prevent disrupting the demonstration.
Can We Extend the Tour Duration or Add Optional Activities?
The tour duration and optional activities can’t be extended. It’s a set half-day tour with a fixed itinerary. However, travelers can book additional tours or activities separately to customize their time in Venice.
Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby
- Private Tour: Venice Rialto Market, San Polo and Frari Church Walking Tour
- Riviera Del Brenta Bike Tour
- The Best of Venice and Murano With Saint Marks Private Tour
- Tasty Venice Dinner Food Tour Around Jewish Ghetto & Cannaregio Quarter
- Venice: Evening Gondola Ride and Ghosts & Legends Tours
- Private Photoshoot on a Boat in Burano
- Italian Wine & Cheese Tasting
- Private Boat Tour, Visit the Major Islands Venice
- VenetianPhotos: A Photographic Journey Through Canals
- Venice: Memories in Pictures
- Cortina: Tour of Dolomites UNESCO
- VENICE : The Best of Dolomites Unesco
- Venice: The Best of Dolomites 3Cime and Refuges
- Classic Venice Tour
- Private Boat Tour to Murano, Burano With Local Real Guide
The Sum Up
Enjoy the captivating beauty and rich traditions of Venice’s Murano and Burano Islands. Discover the vibrant charm of Burano’s colorful houses, witness a private glassblowing demonstration in Murano, and indulge in a delightful wine tasting at the renowned Venissa vineyard. This half-day tour offers a comprehensive and enchanting experience, showcasing the unique essence of these iconic Venetian destinations.