Venice: Murano, Burano and Torcello Islands Tour

The Venice: Murano, Burano, and Torcello Islands Tour offers a captivating half-day experience exploring the unique charm of these enchanting islands. Visitors can marvel at Murano’s centuries-old glassblowing tradition, witness live demonstrations, and stroll through its picturesque canals. Burano enchants with its vibrant facades and renowned lace-making, while Torcello provides a tranquil escape with historical treasures. This guided tour combines cultural heritage, scenic beauty, and leisurely exploration, making it a must-do for visitors who wish to delve deeper into the Venetian archipelago.

Key Points

• Guided day trip from Venice to the nearby islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello, known for their unique cultural heritage and traditions.
• Murano, renowned for its centuries-old glass production, offers a live glassblowing demonstration and the opportunity to explore charming canals and colorful architecture.
• Torcello, the oldest inhabited island in Venice, provides a tranquil respite with historical landmarks like the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and the Throne of Attila.
• Burano, famous for its vibrant facades and lace-making tradition, invites visitors to stroll through quaint alleys and canals, and experience local artisanal crafts.
• The tour includes boat transfers, guided commentary, and entrance to glass and lace shops, with an optional additional cost for visiting the Torcello Cathedral.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Tour

The Venice Islands Tour is a day trip from Venice that allows visitors to explore the picturesque Murano, Burano, and Torcello islands in the Venetian Lagoon.

The tour lasts approximately 4.5 hours and offers a guided experience with a live English-speaking guide providing commentary on the boat.

Highlights include visiting a glass factory in Murano, strolling through the colorful streets of Burano, and discovering the historical landmarks of Torcello.

Boat transfers between the islands and entrance to the glassworks and lace shop are included.

However, the entrance fee for Torcello Cathedral is an additional cost.

Exploring Murano Island

First, visitors arrive at Murano, the famous island known for its centuries-old tradition of glass production.

They visit a local glass factory for a live glassblowing demonstration, marveling at the skilled artisans’ techniques.

Afterward, guests are free to explore the charming streets and scenic canals at their own pace.

Murano’s unique architecture, featuring colorful buildings and picturesque bridges, creates a captivating atmosphere.

Many opt to browse the renowned glass shops, admiring the intricate and diverse glassware on display.

The island’s tranquil ambiance and cultural heritage offer a delightful experience for all who visit.

Visiting the Glassblowing Factory

Upon arrival at Murano, visitors are led to a renowned glass factory, where they witness a captivating live glassblowing demonstration.

The skilled artisans shape molten glass into intricate sculptures and everyday objects, showcasing their impressive techniques. Visitors observe in awe as the glassblowers masterfully transform the material, creating vibrant, one-of-a-kind pieces.

After the demonstration, guests are given the opportunity to explore the factory’s showroom, where they can admire the beautiful glass creations and learn about the island’s rich glassmaking heritage.

This immersive experience provides a unique glimpse into Murano’s celebrated tradition of glass art.

Discovering Torcello Island

What follows the guided visit to Murano is the exploration of Torcello, Venice’s oldest inhabited island.

In stark contrast to the bustling glass factories, Torcello offers a tranquil respite, allowing visitors to enjoy its storied past.

The island’s highlights include:

The island’s highlights include the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, the Throne of Attila, the Ponte del Diavolo, and the Locanda Cipriani.

• The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, a stunning example of Byzantine architecture

• The Throne of Attila, a mysterious stone chair with legendary origins

• The serene Ponte del Diavolo (Devil’s Bridge)

• The idyllic Locanda Cipriani, a renowned restaurant nestled in a serene garden

• The opportunity to wander the island’s peaceful streets, free from the crowds of Venice.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta

The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta stands as a testament to Torcello’s rich Byzantine heritage. Dating back to the 7th century, this magnificent cathedral features stunning mosaics and imposing architecture.

The interior boasts a striking Byzantine mosaic of the Last Judgment, which dominates the main apse. Visitors can also admire the 11th-century marble throne of the bishop, known as the "Throne of Attila."

The cathedral’s tranquil atmosphere and well-preserved Byzantine elements make it a captivating destination for those seeking to enjoy Torcello’s ancient history and cultural significance.

Strolling Through Colorful Burano

Why not stroll through Burano’s colorful streets, famous for their vibrant facades and the island’s long-standing lace-making tradition?

Explore the quaint alleys and canals, stopping to admire the intricate lace crafted by local artisans. Visit a lace shop and learn about the painstaking process of lace-making.

Explore Burano’s quaint alleys and canals, admiring the intricate lace crafted by local artisans. Visit a lace shop to learn the painstaking process.

Indulge in delectable local pastries, like the classic Buranelli cookies. Capture the essence of Burano’s fishermen culture at the local market.

Breathe in the salty air and bask in the island’s tranquil atmosphere – a refreshing contrast to the bustle of Venice.

Experiencing Lace-Making Tradition

How else can visitors experience Burano’s longstanding lace-making tradition?

Along With strolling the island’s vibrant streets, travelers can visit a local lace shop. Here, they can observe skilled artisans meticulously crafting intricate lace pieces using traditional techniques passed down for generations.

Visitors may even have the opportunity to try their hand at lace-making, learning firsthand the patience and dexterity required.

On top of that, travelers can indulge in Burano’s renowned homemade cakes, savoring the flavors that have become synonymous with this picturesque island’s rich cultural heritage.

Practical Information and Logistics

To begin, the tour departs from the Alilaguna Ticket Office in San Marco, near Giardini Reali.

The 4.5-hour experience explores the Venetian Lagoon islands of Murano, Torcello, and Burano.

The tour includes:

• Boat transfers between the islands

• Guided visits to glass and lace workshops

• Free time for personal discovery on each island

• Multilingual commentary on board

• Scenic views of the lagoon

Tickets can be booked in advance, with the option to reserve now and pay later.

Cancellations up to 24 hours prior receive a full refund.

The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, and last-minute reservations may be moved to the following day if seats are unavailable.

Ask Away

What Should I Wear for the Boat Tour?

For a boat tour, comfortable and weather-appropriate attire is recommended. Casual clothing that allows for easy movement and protection from wind or sun is suggested. Sturdy shoes are advisable for navigating the islands’ uneven terrain.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

The tour does not include food and drinks, so visitors are allowed to bring their own. However, any outside food or beverages cannot be consumed on the boat during the tour.

Is There an Audio Guide Available for the Tour?

The tour provides a live English-speaking guide who provides commentary on the boat. There is no mention of an audio guide being available for this tour. The focus is on the guided experience and personal exploration of the islands.

Can I Extend My Stay on the Islands?

The tour includes guided visits to each island, after which visitors have free time to explore on their own. However, the tour does not offer the option to extend one’s stay on the islands beyond the scheduled duration.

Are There Any Discounts for Students or Seniors?

There are no specific student or senior discounts mentioned for this tour. The tour price is fixed at $74.07 per person, with the option to reserve now and pay later. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

Final Words

The Venice: Murano, Burano, and Torcello Islands Tour offers a captivating exploration of these enchanting islands. Visitors can enjoy the centuries-old glassblowing tradition of Murano, the vibrant lace-making heritage of Burano, and the tranquil historical treasures of Torcello. This guided tour combines cultural richness, scenic beauty, and leisurely discovery, making it a must-do experience for those seeking to uncover the unique charm of the Venetian lagoon.

You can check availability for your dates here: