Venice is one of the most sought-after destinations in Northern Italy, and just a short boat ride away lie two of the most incredible islands, Murano and Burano, which have become popular day trips from the floating city.
These charming islands, aside from being super picturesque, stand out for their ancient traditions, which are still very much alive and the main reason to hop on a boat from Venice and check them out.
Murano is known worldwide for its exquisite glass-blowing art, while Burano has a long history of lace making, and the most delicious local biscuits in the area.
I’ve been to Venice many times, and the island of Burano is my favorite place in the Venice lagoon. I can’t recommend it enough, and it’s absolutely worth a day trip, especially one that includes Murano (and maybe Torcello as well!).
If you’ve already spent one or two days in the city of canals and maybe gone on another tour of Venice, a boat trip to Murano and Burano needs to be on the list!
In this article, we’ll unveil the most exceptional Murano and Burano tours, carefully chosen by me. Let’s set off on a fun-filled journey to discover a land of colors, art, and very yummy biscuits!
Wondering why you should trust me with your Italian getaway? First of all, I’m Italian! Born and raised in Bologna, in Northern Italy, I’ve had the chance to travel extensively around my country, so you could consider me your local friend, giving you all the tips and best recommendations to explore the area.
On top of that, I have a decade of experience curating travel guides all over the world, and have developed a knack for identifying extraordinary activities that are worth your dime. You can trust that all the tours in this article were carefully picked and offer a memorable experience.
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:
| THE BEST TOUR | Murano & Burano Islands Guided Small-Group Tour |
| ANOTHER GREAT TOUR | Premium Lagoon: Murano Glassblowing & Burano |
| PRIVATE TOUR | Private Excursion to Murano, Burano and Torcello |
| VENICE + ISLANDS TOUR | St Marks, Doges Palace, with Murano and Burano |
OUR PICK: The BEST Murano and Burano Tour
This Murano & Burano Islands Guided Small-Group Tour by Private Boat is a fantastic excursion that lasts 5 hours, allowing you enough time to see the islands and also plan other activities in Venice.
You’ll meet with your English-speaking guide in the center of Venice, and hop on a private boat that will take you and the group, capped at 22 people, across the beautiful Venice Lagoon.
The first stop is in Murano, where you’ll get to visit the famous glass-blowing factory for a demonstration, discovering the rich heritage of this intricate craft and touring the workshop and exhibition area, where you can purchase a souvenir.
You’ll also be granted free time to explore the island of Murano and its canals before hopping back on the boat and sailing to the neighboring island of Burano.
Burano is a smaller island, yet incredibly colorful, with the fishermen’s houses by the docks painted in vibrant colors. It’s the perfect photo spot 😉
As you explore the island, learn everything about its lacemaking tradition, which is sadly becoming a lost art, with visits to a local shop and a lace museum. Don’t forget to get some Burano biscuits for the ride back before leaving!
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 is 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
▶️ Check out this extraordinary Premium Lagoon Excursion: Murano Glassblowing & Burano. You’ll zip around the lagoon on a private boat, and make your way to the two most popular islands in the area: Murano and Burano.
Murano is best known for its glassblowing industry, and you’ll get to witness a live demonstration at the factory, as well as shop for your favorite pieces. Enjoy free time to wander around the island, and then hop on the boat to visit nearby Burano.
Burano is known for its vibrant houses and lace-making traditions, both of which you’ll get to discover. Make the most of your free time there before returning to Venice.
This Venice to Murano & Burano tour includes: Boat transfers, a guide, a glass factory visit, a tour of Burano, and free time. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ 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
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 with this Luxury Tour of Murano & Burano Boat. You’ll hop on a private boat, exclusive to your group of 12, and sail to the beautiful Venice Lagoon.
Your first stop will be Burano, known for its colorful waterfront houses and lace-making traditions. Visit a lace workshop, try the local bussolai cookies, and snap Instagrammable shots of the island.
In Murano, you’ll learn about the art of glassblowing at a famous factory, and witness a live demonstration. The tour lasts 4 hours and is led by a local guide.
This tour includes: Private roundtrip transfers, a guide, lace-making and glassblowing demonstrations, and cookies. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Venice + Murano and Burano in One Day
Make the most of your time with this St Marks, Doges Palace, with Murano and Burano & Gondola Ride. It’s a full-day excursion and the perfect introduction to Venice.
Start with a tour of St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace, admiring their architecture and learning their fascinating history from your guide. You’ll then board a gondola for the quintessential Venice activity: gliding along the canals.
Grab a quick bite for lunch (own expense) before spending the afternoon learning about glassblowing in Murano, with a factory visit and live demonstration. You’ll also spend time in Burano, known for its lace-making and colorful houses.
This tour includes: A guide, entrance fees, a gondola ride, boat transfers, glassblowing and lace-making demonstrations, and free time. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
