viator murano burano tour

6 BEST Murano and Burano Tours by an Italian [2024]

By: Author Stefania Guglielmi

Posted on Last updated: April 9, 2024

Categories Europe , Italy

Eager to explore the striking islands around the Venetian Lagoon? I bring you the ultimate Murano and Burano tours for you to enjoy a memorable journey. Check them out!

Welcome to the charming islands of Burano and Murano , a world where colors blend with waterways and ancient traditions.

Murano is known worldwide for its exquisite glass art , and one of its major attractions is the on-site glass factory. Burano, on the other hand, boasts beautiful multicolored streets with vibrant facades, and has a long history of lace making.

I’ve been to Venice many times, and the island of Burano is my absolute favorite place in the Venice lagoon . Absolutely worth a day trip that includes Murano and Burano (and maybe Torcello as well), if you ask me!

Especially if you’ve already spent one or two days in the floating city and maybe gone on another tour of Venice .

From Murano & Burano private tours to expert-guided cruises, there are plenty of ways to enjoy these picturesque isles.

In this article we’ll unveil the most exceptional Murano and Burano tours . Let’s set off on a fun-filled journey to discover a land of colors, art, and very yummy biscuits!

Wondering why you should entrust your Italian getaway to me? From my roots in Bologna, Italy, and with a decade of helping millions of people plan their trips through this blog, I’ve mastered the craft of creating unforgettable Italian trips. Think of me as your guide to the best of Italy – no detours, no disappointments.

I usually use Viator , Get Your Guide , and Walks to book activities around the world. I especially recommend them for their fantastic cancellation policy. You can cancel most tours up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. 

Limited time? These are the top tours

OUR PICK: The BEST Murano and Burano Tour

This Murano & Burano Islands Guided Small-Group Tour by Private Boat is a great excursion. You’ll hop on a private boat and zip along the canals, leaving Venice behind.

Your first stop is Murano, which boasts a rich glass-making heritage. You’ll step into a workshop to witness a demonstration of the craft, and get some free time to explore the island’s canals and architecture.

Then, head to Burano, a smaller and very colorful island. You’ll discover everything about its tradition of lacemaking, which is sadly becoming a lost art.

Visit a local shop and lace museum to learn more about it, and afterward make your way to the vibrant houses by the water. Make sure to ask your guide for the story behind their colors! After 2.5 hours in each location, you’ll return to Venice by boat.

Why is this the best tour? It provides plenty of time on each island. You’ll also have the perfect balance between free time and guided excursions. Plus, a visit to the top attractions and immersive exhibitions are included!

Read what the reviews say

“ Monica’ was GREAT! Me and my husband had an awesome time. A good mix between demonstrations and “on your own” time. The boat ride was awesome, and Monica was very knowledgeable about all the different islands and lagoons, and gave good suggestions on what to do and where to eat!” Megan_P – Read more reviews

This tour includes : Private boat transfers, a guide, live demonstrations, and a discount at both shops. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Other Great Tours To Consider

▶️ Explore the islands on this enchanting Venice: Murano, Burano, Torcello & Glass Factory Tour . Aboard a water taxi, soak in the panoramic views of the emerald Venetian Lagoon as you make your way to Murano.

Visit a local glass factory and witness skilled artisans shaping intricate glass ornaments. Then, continue to the neighboring island of Burano.

Known for its colorful houses and exquisite lacework, it provides charming corners to explore in your free time. Make sure to savor the local cuisine, sip on Venetian aperitifs, or try the local biscuits!

Next up is Torcello, the third destination on your day trip. As the ancient center of civilization in the estuary, this island is steeped in history.

You shouldn’t miss the Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta and its Venetian-Byzantine mosaics during your visit. Throughout the tour, enjoy insightful commentary from your guide. 

This tour includes : Roundtrip boat ride, a guide, a glass factory visit, and free time in Torcello and Burano. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ Check out this extraordinary Premium Lagoon Excursion: Murano Glass Making, Burano & Wine Tasting . You’ll venture beyond the well-trodden canals of central Venice led by a local guide.

Zip around the lagoon on a private boat for you and your friends, and step into a world of vibrant colors as you stroll around the painted houses of Burano. 

Plus, you will discover its rich tradition of lacemaking before visiting a hidden gem… A secret vineyard embraced by a Michelin Star restaurant where you’ll enjoy a  tantalizing wine-tasting session. 

But that’s not all! Prepare to be dazzled by the artistry of Murano’s glassmakers with a live demonstration inside a 12th-century church. On the tour, you’ll have ample time to explore, relax, and relish the unique ambiance of each island. 

This Venice to Murano & Burano tour includes : Boat transfers, wine tasting, a guide, a glass factory visit, a Burano tour, and free time. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Private Tours to Murano and Burano

▶️ Embark on this fabulous Private Excursion by Typical Venetian Motorboat to Murano, Burano and Torcello . Groups of up to 6 people will enjoy personalized attention as you glide along the canals on your way to Murano.

This enchanting island is especially known for one trait: it’s home to a glass factory, where you’ll get to marvel at the artistry of expert glassblowers. 

After enjoying a live demonstration and wandering around the showroom, you’ll get back on the boat to visit Burano. This colorful island is famous for its tasty biscuits and lace-making enterprise, so be sure to check both!

Finally, step foot on the ancient island of Torcello, home to Venice’s oldest settlements.

This Murano, Burano & Torcello tour from Venice includes : Hotel pick-up, boat transfers, all visits, and a guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

▶️ Cruise in style down the Grand Canal on a relaxing Venice: Grand Canal, Murano and Burano Half-Day Boat Tour . Catering to groups of up to six people, you’ll enjoy an intimate experience as you glide past Venice’s waterfront and head to Murano. 

Your guide will provide insights into the city’s past, and take you to visit the famous glass factory. You’ll be treated to a mesmerizing display of glassblowing artistry by the experts!

Then, wander around the picturesque island of Burano, finishing your adventure at the iconic Piazza San Marco in Venice. 

This Murano and Burano islands tour includes : Roundtrip boat transfers, an escort, and entrance to the glass factory. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Lagoon Islands Hop on Hop Off Boat Tour

Experience a tour like no other on this Venice: Lagoon Islands Hop-On Hop-Off Boat Tour . With 24/48-hour tickets, you’ll have the flexibility to explore at your own pace. 

Hop on and off at six different stops including St. Mark’s Square and Murano’s glass factory. As you glide down the stunning canals, take in the views and make sure to hop off in Burano to see its colorful houses. You’ll also have the chance to take a stroll in the tranquil Torcello. 

Explore up to 120 fascinating points of interest with onboard audio guides. You can also download walking tour itineraries to help you make the most of your stops! 

This tour includes : Hop-on Hop-off boat tour, an audioguide in 5 languages, a glassmaking demonstration in Murano, and a map. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Stefania Guglielmi is the founder of Every Steph. Originally from Bologna, Italy, she's been traveling full-time since 2016 and has visited over 50 countries across 6 continents. She believes sustainable travel and luxury travel can go hand in hand and has been advocating for responsible tourism since 2014. Stefania's advice and travel experiences have been featured in important publications such as Business Insider, Refinery29, and Yahoo Money.

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• Burano, Murano and Torcello – review of Viator tour

This is post 2 of 39 in the series “Italy”

Italy is a country full of history, culture, art, and stunning nature. Whether it’s the pictureseque canals of Venice, ragged mountains of Dolomite or pristine water of the Sicily Islands, there is something for everyone.

And did I mention food? From homemade pasta class to hidden small town, here are my exhaustive guides to Italy.

• How not to annoy or get annoyed by others on holiday
• A photo diary of Venice
• Perfect little lunch spots in Venice
• Sight-seeing in Venice – Secret Itinerary, Museum Pass and Chorus Scheme
• Searching for Romeo and Juliet
• Verona card review and top picks
• Best Gelato and Ravioli in Verona (or the World…)
• The Ultimate Hiking Guide to Porto Venere
• Vulcano – Part 1 of the 3 Boat Trips You Must Take in the Aeolian Islands
• Lipari – Salina: Part 2 of the 3 Boat Trips You Must Take in the Aeolian Islands
• Panarea – Stromboli – Part 3 of the 3 Boat Trips you Must take in the Aeolian Islands
• A Night hike up Stromboli
• The Ultimate Guide to the Aeolian Islands
• A Short Guide to Taormina
• Top 5 things to do in Palermo Sicily
• Top 5 things to do in Catania Sicily
• Mount Etna tours review – a geo adventure
• Club di Giulietta – The secret life of a Secretary of Juliet
• A budget foodie’s guide to Verona
• The Ultimate guide to Verona Opera Festival – tips and expectations
• Top 5 of Padua, Italy
• Mantua – a hidden town of palaces
• The Ultimate Guide to 48 hours in Milan
• Things to do in Sirmione – an escape to Lake Garda
• The Ultimate Guide to Cinque Terre
• Secret Spots in Verona – off the beaten path
• Day trips from Venice: 7+ quick escapes for you
• Lago di Soprais – how to do the Lake Soprais hike in the Italian Dolomites
• Cortina d’Ampezzo Summer guide for hikers
• Lagazuoi hike: seeing WWI tunnel warfare in the Dolomites
• 6 day Dolomite itinerary for the photo + hike enthusiast
• Tre Cime di Lavaredo: how to hike the classic three peaks in Dolomite Italy
• Bologna food guide: best restaurants, gelateria, and what to eat
• What to do in Bologna aside from eating
• What to see in Treviso Italy
• What to do on a San Marino Day Trip
• Day Trips from Bologna: amazing cities in Italy you don’t want to miss
• Northern Italy Itinerary: 5 different 10-14 days itineraries

A visit to Venice wouldn’t be complete without a trip to its surrounding islands. Out of the sizable collections, my sister – the designated planner for Venice singled out the following: Morano, the island famous for glass; Burano, the island famous for lace and Torcello, the oldest continuously inhabited island of Venetian occupation as the must-see.

Apart from Torcello, which only has eleven inhabitants and the main square where all its attractions gather, you can easily spend a half day or a whole day on these beautiful islands reachable by public (water bus!) transport. However, after evaluating the costs of a single journey (which costs €7 one way, and €20 for a day pass) we decided to opt for a half day boat trip to the three islands by Viator .

• See my full Italy series and itineraries here

Why choose a tour to go to Burano, Murano, and Torcello?

Despite some bad reviews, my sister and I briefly weighed up the pros and cons of the tour and went for it:

• £14.96, which more than compensated for the five water bus journeys we would otherwise have to take, let alone the time you save waiting around for one.
• Only a half day tour, not a massive chunk of time off our already tight 3-day schedule
• Include a glass making demonstration on Morano
• only 40 minutes’ stop on an island. This is not a guided tour once you are on the ground.
• To be honest, we were glad about the last point, as neither of us are huge fans of guided tours, and certainly not one where time is already so tight. So despite the gaggles of bad reviews on trip advisor, we went ahead and booked it.

Here are some alternative tours offered by Viator:

Private Excursion by Typical Venetian Motorboat to Murano, Burano and Torcello

Private LimoBoat Tour Murano Burano and Torcello

Tour review

The tour, though sold online with Viator is operated by Alilaguna. After walking up and down the western strip of pier close to St Mark’s Square looking like two lost lambs, we were finally clued into the fact that we needed to exchange our printed paper tickets at the stall opposite the pier stand.

There is a lot of confusion about the start time of the afternoon tour – which is stated as 2pm on the website; in reality, the tour departs at 2:30 pm from April to October, so it is worth bearing in mind. We were surprised to see the vast number of people who are also going for the tour. Despite my reservations, the boat actually fit everyone in, though unfortunately we were seated at an inconvenient angle for photos.

We left promptly and the boat first made a stop at the island Lido to collect some more passengers. It also stops there on the way back and might be an option for some (especially those who take the morning tour) to get off here.

The first island of the trip is Murano , the journey took about half an hour and we arrived at 3:00pm. As soon as we docked we were greeted by the glass shop representative and ushered in for the demonstration. In all honesty – there were too many of us and your ability to see the demonstration depends on how tall you are and if the people on the tour are nice. A couple kindly let my sister and I stand in front of them seeing as both of us are only 5 ft.

The demonstration lasted around 20 minutes and was actually very informative and eye opening. Afterwards we were shepherded off into their adjacent shop. Note that this is the only place and time during the trip when you can use the bathroom. You are allowed to leave immediately and the island is worth a stroll.

A neatly paved walkway lead you away from the pier towards the town center.

The island is much more relaxed, with 6000 inhabitants. Apart from the main square there wasn’t much to see, so we cut to the NE side and admire the residential streets.

The next stop is Torcello , which was about 20 minutes ride away.

A very green island that is mainly deserted now with only 11 inhabitants, this use to be the original settlement until malaria reached the island in 12 th century causing its inhabitants to flee. A beautiful brick road from the pier lead you along the canal to the famous church and on the way is one of the only two paparate-less bridge in the whole of Venice.

The main attraction: Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta has a €5 entry fees (no student tickets). It was built in 639 but most of it current structures are in Byzantine style done in the 11 th and 12 th century.

If you like mosaics it is well worth a visit, though you might only be able to spend fifteen minutes there. And don’t miss the chance to sit on the stone throne that allegedly belonged to Attila, but more likely to be a bishop’s chair.

The last stop Burano is only ten minutes ride away. Famous for the tradition of each house being painted in a different, vibrant colour with canals looking like a scene straight out of a fairy tale. Our boat stopped behind the San Martino Church with a leaning bell tower and the group was taken to a lace shop. However, we opted to skip the demonstration and strolled around for good photo opportunities. Burano is much livelier than the other two islands with 3000 inhabitants and is also famous for their S shape biscuits.

We ended up having about 50 minutes on each island and even though the stop is short, you have enough time to do a little exploration and photo-taking. The only truly annoying thing about this trip is the tour guide will try and give a tour on the boat in five different languages non-stop. So bring your headphones, or earplugs to block out the noise.

Overall I would definitely recommend this tour for anyone who is on a tight schedule and not planning to buy a day pass.

Hi, my name is Nam. I am 24 and spent half my life in Hong Kong and the other half in UK. I believe there's endless experience and beauty in the world and this is me chronicling how to experience the best at the best price.

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Burano and Murano Tour with Private Boat

about 4 hours

Private Boat Ride

Pick up at your hotel*, flexible starting time, professional guides, activity level, sights included.

Special thanks to Anna Maria, Cristina and Desiree for the pictures

Tour Description

Book our Burano and Murano Tour and discover the two most picturesque islands in Venice’s Lagoon! Private boat, pick up, and drop off included.

Most of the visitors explore only the main islands of Venice’s Lagoon and see highlights like St. Mark’s Basilica or the Doge’s Palace.

Just a small percentage go beyond and visit the gorgeous islands of Murano and Burano. Be the minority and take advantage of our customized service.

1. Murano: the “Island of Glass”

Murano has a very interesting past. Despite its proximity to Venice, during some periods of its long history, it was independent from Venice, having its own rulers and laws.

The city of Murano actually counts seven islands, separated by canals and connected by bridges, and it boasts of some important sights like the Duomo and the famous lighthouse.

Your guide will pick you up at your hotel and, together, you’ll get on a lovely private boat.

Your skipper will allow you to reach Murano in about 30-45 minutes, and you’ll see a large part of the Lagoon from a privileged point of view: the sea.

Your Burano and Murano tour will continue with a walk through the center of Murano so that you can get a feeling of daily life and the main attraction of the island.

Your guide will tell you about the history of Murano, and you will learn about its most important product: glass.

Since 1291, the production of Venice’s glass was moved to Murano, mostly to protect the main and overcrowded city from the devastating fires which were often an unexpected consequence of glass-making.

This is how Murano became the “island of glass” ; your guide will lead you through the “Rio dei Vetrai” and, if you want, take you to one of the best shops in town.

You will not only be able to take a look at their products but even see part of the glass-making process.

2. Burano: the “Island of Colors”

During the second part of your Murano and Burano Tour, your skipper and your guide will take you to Burano, the “Island of Colors”.

Burano is smaller than Murano, and further away from Venice. But, it’s a very recognizable town, worldwide famous for its colorful houses.

The reason why Burano has such colorful buildings is still mysterious.

In the past, most of the inhabitants of Burano were fishermen. Venice’s Lagoon is famous for its foggy weather during the winter, and that could explain the vivid colors of the buildings.

It was probably the fishermen who decided to paint their homes with unique colors that helped them find their households more easily.

But, Burano is not only famous for its buildings; since the 1500s, the town has developed a great tradition of lace . A legend – of course! – explains the beginning of this elegant tradition.

A fisherman who was sailing outside of the Lagoon met a siren, who tried to seduce him with her beautiful singing. But, he resisted, and the queen of sirens gave him a magic gift: a veil made with the foam of the sea.

The fisherman went back home and donated it to her fiancée. The other girls in Burano, jealous of her veil, tried to imitate it and invented the lace.

Your guide will show you the most picturesque corners of the islands, and its most romantic canals, and tell you more stories about this enchanted island.

Then, you’ll get back on your private boat and return to Venice.

If you’re spending a few days in Venice, take advantage of our customized Burano and Murano Tour, and explore these two lovely islands with a professional guide and a private skipper.

*Pick up is included only if you’re staying within the pick up area . If your hotel is not in the pick up area, let us know and we will find the best solution. 

This is the price for groups from one to six people. If you have more people in your group, please let us know and we’ll create a customized price.​​

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Premium Lagoon Excursion: Murano Glass Making, Burano & Wine Tasting

• Explore Murano and Burano, two ancient islands only accessible by boat, where Venice's authentic traditions still run deep.
• Visit a secret island vineyard, today part of a Michelin Star restaurant, and enjoy an exclusive wine tasting.
• Sit back and relax on our private boat, taking you and your small group of just 20 guests maximum from island to island. There's no need to worry about finding your own way around.
• See Murano’s spectacular glassmaking tradition come to life at a private demonstration in a gorgeous old church.

Tour description

Spend one perfect day exploring venice’s charming islands and enjoying vip treatment..

This Murano & Burano tour takes you away from the crowds of central Venice to the city's outlying islands, bursting with authentic history and culture. Explore Burano and Murano by private boat, complete with an exclusive wine tasting at a Michelin Star restaurant and a private glassblowing demonstration.

Say buongiorno to your guide and small group in central Venice, then enjoy a short walk through a picturesque neighborhood to your boat to begin your Murano & Burano tour. You’ll make a brief stop along the way for a photo op at one of Venice’s most recognizable spots.

Once aboard the private boat, you’ll slip away from the city center and catch breathtaking views from the water. Pass by legendary sights such as St. Mark’s Square, the Doge's Palace, and the Bridge of Sighs. Throughout the pleasant hour-long ride, your guide will also point out some lesser-known gems that you’ll want to explore during the rest of your time in the city.

Explore picture-perfect Burano with a knowledgeable guide.

You’ll disembark at Burano and pop over to a secret vineyard—now part of a Michelin Star restaurant. Relax and enjoy the views of the vineyards from the restaurant’s stunning tasting room as you sip a glass of excellent white wine served with homemade snacks in an exclusive tasting that’s not available with any other operator.

After your VIP wine tasting, you'll discover the center of Burano Island, home to the famous colorful houses which have been the homes of Venice’s legendary lacemakers since the 16th century. Enjoy a stroll around the island with your guide, taking in the charming streets and sights like the old fish market (no longer in use) and the main church. After the guided portion of your visit, you’ll have the option to accompany your guide to a traditional lacemaking workshop or enjoy some free time on your own.

See Murano’s glassmaking tradition come to life.

Your next stop is the island of Murano, known for its respected tradition of glassmaking since the 13th century. After a 40-minute boat ride, you'll disembark on Murano and head into a formerly abandoned medieval church. Visited by Casanova and Venetian nobles in its heyday, this fascinating space is now a glassmaking workshop. Marvel at a private glassblowing demonstration and learn about the storied history of this local tradition.

After your Murano tour, you'll have some free time to explore the island. Finally, hop back aboard your private boat and we’ll have you back in central Venice by late afternoon. Alternatively, you can choose to stay in Murano for a bit longer on your own, with instructions from your guide on how to make your way back to Venice via public transport.

You’ll return to Venice with a new perspective on the Floating City and some of its lesser-visited (yet no less charming) islands. Thanks to the stories from your guide that bring the islands and their traditions to life, your Murano & Burano tour will provide you with a greater appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of the lagoon.

Sites visited

Verified guest reviews, oct 05, 2023.

Barbara was very knowledgeable and had a great sense of humour. We enjoyed Burano and Murano very much

Sep 30, 2023

Tour guide made the experience even better!

Sep 23, 2023

Lace making was a 2 minute example then heavy selling by store. Wine tasting was 1 wine only. Murano Glass blowing was good. Overall poor value for money.

Sep 16, 2023

Violet (Viola?) from our Dodge's Palace and Basilica evening tour was amazing! Her passion for sharing the history and interesting facts was evident. Easy to understand and the tour didn't feel rushed! Well worth it!

Aug 12, 2023

I really enjoyed my tour, Jennifer was a fabulous tour guide she was so knowledgeable. Well worth the experience, Murano and Burrato are both stunning. Also our boat driver was excellent. Thank you

Know before you book

Similar tours, welcome to venice: walking tour, st mark's basilica & gondola ride, venice boat tour with grand canal & tower climb, venice in a day with st mark’s basilica, doge’s palace & gondola ride.

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