English
English
Murano & Burano Boat Tours
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION6 hours
MODE OF TRANSFERBoat
TOTAL DURATION6 hours
MODE OF TRANSFERBoat
START POINT
St. Mark's Square
Get picked up and dropped off right at the south basin of this monumental square, filled with landmarks like the Doge's Palace and St. Mark's bell tower.
4.5 km
10 minutes
1
Murano Island
75 min
2 attractions
1 activities
Photo stop, Sightseeing
Things to do
1. Glass blowing demonstration
Included in price
Watch skilled artisans weaving magic through traditional glass-making methods passed down through generations.
2. Palazzo da Mula
This hidden villa turned cultural center on a sub-island of Murano offers a historic glimpse into Venetian opulence. Stop by for the Gothic façade, ornate arches, and serene canal views.
Nearby things to do
-on-Murano-island-in-Venice.jpg?auto=format&w=100.8&h=64.8&q=90&fit=crop&ar=16%3A10)
Murano Lighthouse
6 km
15 minutes
2
Burano Island
75 min
2 attractions
Stroll through the little island of Burano’s streets lined with colorful homes, delve into lace-making history, and stare at quirky architecture like the Leaning Bell Tower!
Things to do
1. Church of Saint Martin Bishop
A church with a slanting bell tower located on Piazza Baldassarre Galuppi, the main square of Burano.
2. Colourful bricked house
Just a few doors down, find a technicolor assortment of bricks lined up to make this gorgeous addition to a vivid street.
2 km
5 minutes
3
Torcello
75 min
2 attractions
Torcello, the tranquil northern isle, offers panoramic lagoon views and historic allure. Discover Byzantine mosaics in the Santa Maria Assunta Cathedral, and tread the quaint Devil’s Bridge.
Things to do
1. The Devil's Bridge
Despite the name, Ponte del Diavolo is a charming bridge reminding us that many Venetian bridges never had side rails!
2. Torcello Cathedral
The Church of Santa Maria Assunta, also known as Torcello Cathedral, is one of Veneto’s oldest religious structures, featuring some of the earliest mosaics in the region! It stands as a prime example of Late Paleochristian architecture.
10 km
30 minutes
4
END POINT
St. Mark's Square
START POINT
Santa Lucia Railway Station
Get picked up and dropped off right at Venice’s main railway station, located on the banks of the Grand Canal at the northern edge of the historic city.
3 km
20 minutes
1
Murano Island
75 min
2 attractions
1 activities
Photo stop, Sightseeing
Things to do
1. Glass blowing demonstration
Included in price
Watch skilled artisans weaving magic through traditional glass-making methods passed down through generations.
2. Palazzo da Mula
This hidden villa turned cultural center on a sub-island of Murano offers a historic glimpse into Venetian opulence. Stop by for the Gothic façade, ornate arches, and serene canal views.
Nearby things to do
Murano Lighthouse
6 km
15 minutes
2
Burano Island
75 min
2 attractions
Stroll through the little island of Burano’s streets lined with colorful homes, delve into lace-making history, and stare at quirky architecture like the Leaning Bell Tower!
Things to do
1. Church of Saint Martin Bishop
A church with a slanting bell tower located on Piazza Baldassarre Galuppi, the main square of Burano.
2. Colourful bricked house
Just a few doors down, find a technicolor assortment of bricks lined up to make this gorgeous addition to a vivid street.
2 km
5 minutes
3
Torcello
75 min
2 attractions
Torcello, the tranquil northern isle, offers panoramic lagoon views and historic allure. Discover Byzantine mosaics in the Santa Maria Assunta Cathedral, and tread the quaint Devil’s Bridge.
Things to do
1. The Devil's Bridge
Despite the name, Ponte del Diavolo is a charming bridge reminding us that many Venetian bridges never had side rails!
2. Torcello Cathedral
The Church of Santa Maria Assunta, also known as Torcello Cathedral, is one of Veneto’s oldest religious structures, featuring some of the earliest mosaics in the region! It stands as a prime example of Late Paleochristian architecture.
10 km
30 minutes
4
END POINT
Santa Lucia Railway Station
Three islands - Murano, Burano & Torcello, one smooth, well-timed day on the lagoon with round-trip boat transfers and a live demo.
- Everything you get: Set off from central Venice or the railway station for a boat tour across the lagoon. Visit Murano for a live glassblowing demo at a traditional furnace, explore the alleys of Burano, and explore Torcello’s serene historic sites. Travel by panoramic motorboat, with multilingual commentary on board and free time at each island to wander, shop, or grab a bite.
- Why choose this: No-stress island hopping—get Murano, Burano, and Torcello done in one smooth, scenic day.
Three islands - Murano, Burano & Torcello, one smooth, well-timed day on the lagoon with round-trip boat transfers and a live demo.
- Everything you get: Set off from central Venice or the railway station for a boat tour across the lagoon. Visit Murano for a live glassblowing demo at a traditional furnace, explore the alleys of Burano, and explore Torcello’s serene historic sites. Travel by panoramic motorboat, with multilingual commentary on board and free time at each island to wander, shop, or grab a bite.
- Why choose this: No-stress island hopping—get Murano, Burano, and Torcello done in one smooth, scenic day.
Inclusions
- Visit to Murano, Burano, and Torcello islands
- Round-trip motorboat transfer from St. Mark's Square or Venice Railway Station (as per option selected)
- Glass-blowing demonstration at a Murano glass factory
- Multilingual assistance on board (English, German, Spanish, French, Italian)
- This is a shared tour with multilingual assistance, not a detailed guided tour.
- Refunds are not provided for late arrivals or no-shows.
- On Regatta days (Sept 3 & Sept 17), the itinerary may vary slightly.
- Each island stop lasts approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- This experience is not accessible by wheelchair and pram/strollers.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Itinerary
MODE OF TRANSFERBoat
MODE OF TRANSFERBoat
START POINT
Venice
Board your spacious boats and set off from your selected meeting point in central Venice.
4.5 km
10 minutes
1
Murano Island
60 min
1 attractions
1 activities
Admire the Faro di Murano lighthouse as you draw near to the largest island in the lagoon, home to the fire. Marvel at the craftsmanship of expert glassblowers in a historic Murano glass factory.
Things to do
1. Glass blowing demonstration
Included in price
Catch a master glass crafter in action, and learn more about the process as it unravels in front of you.
2. Santi Maria e Donato Basilica
Famed for its 12th-century Byzantine mosaic floor, this site houses Saint Donatus of Euroea's relics and 'dragon bones' rumored to be of his vanquished foe (which were later found to be whale bones).
6 km
15 minutes
2
Burano Island
2 attractions
Walk through the 'rainbow island' of Burano, where vibrant houses and intricate lace craftsmanship await!
Things to do
1. Lace Museum
Nestled within the historic Podestà Palace, the Lace Museum showcases Burano Lace School's legacy (1872-1970), and the art and history of Venetian lace craftsmanship.
2. Tre Ponti Bridge
A picturesque footbridge connecting Burano to the tiny neighboring Tre Ponti island with its colorful houses suspended on the water.
10.5 km
30 minutes
3
END POINT
Venice
START POINT
Santa Lucia Railway Station
Board your spacious boats and set off from your selected meeting point in central Venice.
4.5 km
10 minutes
1
Murano Island
60 min
1 attractions
1 activities
Admire the Faro di Murano lighthouse as you draw near to the largest island in the lagoon, home to the fire. Marvel at the craftsmanship of expert glassblowers in a historic Murano glass factory.
Things to do
1. Glass blowing demonstration
Included in price
Catch a master glass crafter in action, and learn more about the process as it unravels in front of you.
2. Santi Maria e Donato Basilica
Famed for its 12th-century Byzantine mosaic floor, this site houses Saint Donatus of Euroea's relics and 'dragon bones' rumored to be of his vanquished foe (which were later found to be whale bones).
6 km
15 minutes
2
Burano Island
85 min
2 attractions
Walk through the 'rainbow island' of Burano, where vibrant houses and intricate lace craftsmanship await!
Things to do
1. Lace Museum
Nestled within the historic Podestà Palace, the Lace Museum showcases Burano Lace School's legacy (1872-1970), and the art and history of Venetian lace craftsmanship.
2. Tre Ponti Bridge
A picturesque footbridge connecting Burano to the tiny neighboring Tre Ponti island with its colorful houses suspended on the water.
10.5 km
30 minutes
3
END POINT
Santa Lucia Railway Station
Best of Venetian lagoon in half a day——craft demos, onboard audio guide & seamless round-trip boat transfers.
- Everything you get: Hop aboard a panoramic boat with both indoor and open-deck seating, and an audio guide sharing stories of the lagoon. Cruise to Murano for a live glassblowing demo inside a traditional furnace, plus time to explore its quiet streets. Then sail to vibrant Burano, where you’ll stroll past candy-colored houses, shop lace and local treats, and soak in lagoon life—all in just half a day.
- Why choose this: Maximize your Venice visit—see both islands, enjoy live craft, and be back in ~4 hours. Fits perfectly into short stays.
Best of Venetian lagoon in half a day——craft demos, onboard audio guide & seamless round-trip boat transfers.
- Everything you get: Hop aboard a panoramic boat with both indoor and open-deck seating, and an audio guide sharing stories of the lagoon. Cruise to Murano for a live glassblowing demo inside a traditional furnace, plus time to explore its quiet streets. Then sail to vibrant Burano, where you’ll stroll past candy-colored houses, shop lace and local treats, and soak in lagoon life—all in just half a day.
- Why choose this: Maximize your Venice visit—see both islands, enjoy live craft, and be back in ~4 hours. Fits perfectly into short stays.
Inclusions
- Visit to Murano and Burano Islands
- Round-trip boat transfer from St. Mark's Square or Venice Railway Station (as per option selected)
- Glass blowing demonstration in Murano
- Onboard audio guide in English, Italian, French, Spanish, and German
Exclusions
- Entry to museums or attractions not mentioned
- Meals and personal expenses
- Live tour guide
- Hotel transfers
- This tour is not wheelchair accessible due to uneven terrain and boat boarding steps.
- The boat has a large capacity (100–200 guests) and does not offer a live guide.
- Glassblowing demo in Murano lasts ~30 minutes; rest is self-guided exploration. The visit also includes a 10% discount on purchases at the showroom.
- Tour operates in fixed time slots; late arrivals cannot be accommodated.
- Tour skips Torcello to keep the experience efficient and under 5 hours.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
DIY island-hopping with unlimited vaporetto across Venice and its lagoons for 1/2/3/7 days.
- Everything you get: Hop on ACTV vaporetto and explore Murano, Burano, and Torcello like a local. With lines like 4.1, 4.2, and 12, you’ll set your own route and pace. Choose a 1-, 2-, or 3-day pass and reuse it across Venice—including your island transfers—without extra ticketing.
- Why choose this: Budget-friendly, flexible, and reusable—build your own island itinerary and explore at your own pace.
- Upgrades: Choose from 1-, 2-, 3-, or 7-day passes. One day is ideal for Murano and Burano; two or more let you add Torcello or explore Venice’s mainland—best value for longer stays. Add a Venice audio guide for local context on the go.
DIY island-hopping with unlimited vaporetto across Venice and its lagoons for 1/2/3/7 days.
- Everything you get: Hop on ACTV vaporetto and explore Murano, Burano, and Torcello like a local. With lines like 4.1, 4.2, and 12, you’ll set your own route and pace. Choose a 1-, 2-, or 3-day pass and reuse it across Venice—including your island transfers—without extra ticketing.
- Why choose this: Budget-friendly, flexible, and reusable—build your own island itinerary and explore at your own pace.
- Upgrades: Choose from 1-, 2-, 3-, or 7-day passes. One day is ideal for Murano and Burano; two or more let you add Torcello or explore Venice’s mainland—best value for longer stays. Add a Venice audio guide for local context on the go.
Inclusions
- 1/2/3/7-day validity (as per option selected)
- Access to unlimited ACTV Vaporetti (water buses) in Venice, Lido and lagoon islands
- Access to unlimited ACTV buses in Mestre, Marghera and mainland
- Audio guide (as per option selected)
Exclusions
- ACTV Services from/to Marco Polo Airport
- Routes no. 16, 19, 21, Casinò and Alilaguna lines
- Validate your ticket each time you board a Vaporetto or bus to avoid any fines.
- Expect occasional delays, especially during peak hours or busy tourist seasons.
- Luggage allowance: You can carry up to three items, as long as the combined dimensions don’t exceed 150 cm.
- Kids under 6 ride free—no ticket required!
- You can use the pass on any day—it activates only upon first validation, not on the date of booking.
- Some boats travel in loops or single directions—check the line and platform before boarding.
- These tickets can’t be cancelled. However, you can use them any time within the next 24 months.
- These tickets are valid for 24 months from the date of purchase.
Explore Murano & Burano at a slower pace on a private boat with small group of 20 and artisan demos included.
- Everything you get: Sail from St. Mark’s Square on a private boat with a small group of 20 for a peaceful island-hopping day. With a local guide’s stories and tips, enjoy a front-row Murano glassblowing demo, stroll Burano’s vibrant lanes, and skip the crowds with flexible free time.
- Why choose this: A premium small-group experience with more time, better insights, and no crowded ferries or rigid schedules.
Explore Murano & Burano at a slower pace on a private boat with small group of 20 and artisan demos included.
- Everything you get: Sail from St. Mark’s Square on a private boat with a small group of 20 for a peaceful island-hopping day. With a local guide’s stories and tips, enjoy a front-row Murano glassblowing demo, stroll Burano’s vibrant lanes, and skip the crowds with flexible free time.
- Why choose this: A premium small-group experience with more time, better insights, and no crowded ferries or rigid schedules.
Inclusions
- Round-trip transportation by private boat taxi
- Visit to Murano and Burano
- Expert guide
- Small group size of 20 or less
- Glassblowing demonstrations
- This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility due to uneven paths and boarding steps.
- Boat rides are subject to weather and tidal conditions; delays may occur.
- Demonstrations are conducted in working studios not accessible to general visitors.
- The experience includes guided demos but also free time to explore both islands.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Top things to do in Venice
Why take a day trip from Venice to the Murano and Burano Islands?
See all photos
You day trip to Murano and Burano from Venice explained
Experience
Inclusions
Cost
Venice & Murano Island Hop-On Hop-Off Boat Tour with Audio Guide
✅24/48-hour hop-on hop-off boat tour
✅Murano glass factory tour
✅Audio guide
Murano & Burano Islands Boat Tour with Glass Blowing
✅Murano glass factory tour
✅Burano visit
✅Guide (EN)
➕Optional private tour
Murano, Burano & Torcello Islands Boat Tour with Glass Blowing
✅Murano glass factory tour
✅Burano & Torcello visit
✅Guide (EN)
Murano & Burano Islands Private Boat Tour with Glass Blowing & Lace Making
✅Murano glass factory tour
✅Burano lace shop tour
✅Private tour
✅Guide (EN, IT)
Turbopass Venice City Card: 1 to 7-Day Pass
✅Access to 30+ monuments in Venice
✅Venice walking tours & gondola rides
✅Murano glass factory tour
✅Burano lace shop tour
✅Torcello visit
Venice in a Day: St. Mark’s, Doge’s Palace, Murano & Burano with Gondola Ride
6 hour tour
✅St. Mark’s Basilica & Doge’s Palace
✅30-min Venice gondola ride
✅Guide (EN)
9 hour tour
➕Murano glass factory tour
➕Burano visit
Things to do at Murano, Burano & Torcello Islands
Things to do at Murano Island
Things to do at Burano Island
Things to do at Torcello Island
Located less than 5 km away by boat, Murano is composed of seven sub islands! With humble beginnings as a small fishing port, it rapidly upscaled in the late 13th century when the Venetian glass industry was transplanted here.
Murano island glass factory tour
See first-hand the mesmerizing process behind the creation of glassworks! Included in most of your day trip options.
Faro di Murano
An active lighthouse built in the 19th century, this looming stone structure sits on the southeast of the island. Admire it from afar or climb within its interior.
Glass Museum
Get further context on the history and legacy of Murano glass, and the ancient art of turning sand into fantastical translucent objects!
Palazzo da Mula
On the sub island of San Pietro Martire, near the Ponte Vivarini bridge lies a 15th-century Venetian mansion. Its quaint façade survives, while the main room inside is used by the municipality for cultural activities.
Located a little further away around 9 km from the mainland, this tiny artisanal paradise is made up of four islets — the smallest in the lagoon!
Tre Ponti Bridge
Built facing three directions over the Giudecca Canal, Tre Ponti is one of its kind on the island! It offers a 360° view in the midst of colorful homes.
Bepi’s House
This geometrically resplendent, technicolor home of a former film enthusiast must not be missed. The legacy of Bepi as a candy seller, organizer of outdoor cinema, and wall painter lives on at the liveliest home in Burano!
Lace Museum
The Lace Museum in Burano features stunning lace artifacts, detailing the island's lace-making traditions and techniques. It is located inside Podestà Palace, the seat of the Burano Lace School from 1872 to 1970.
Entry fee: €12
Church of Saint Martin Bishop
The Church of Saint Martin Bishop in Burano features a distinctive leaning bell tower and vibrant frescoes, reflecting the island's rich religious and artistic heritage.
The northernmost isle and one of the earliest settlements in the lagoon, Torcello is made up of 9 sub islands!
---Torcello.jpg?auto=format&w=702.4499999999999&h=401.4&q=90&fit=crop&ar=7%3A4&crop=faces)
Ponte del Diavolo
Ponte del Diavolo, or the ‘Devil's Bridge’, is a striking stone bridge with no handrails, with local legends of its construction adding to its mystique.
Torcello Cathedral
Torcello Cathedral, founded in the 7th century, features stunning mosaics and a serene atmosphere, marking it as a key historical and religious site in Venice.
Attila’s Throne
Despite the legend linking this stone throne to the King of the Huns being untrue, this monument dates back to the 5th century, when the first settlers arrived on the island!
Things to do in Venice
Best time to take a Venice boat tour
Shoulder seasons (March–May or September–October)
The weather is pleasant, prices are relatively reasonable, and the city is less crowded.
Summer (April–June)
The weather is favorable for sightseeing and gondola rides, but May Day can be crowded.
Winter (November–January)
The weather is mild and cold, prices are lower, and there are fewer tourists. However, the chance of flooding is most likely in November and December.
Carnival (February)
This month hosts Venice's most iconic festival, featuring special concerts, events, and costumed figures. Hotel prices are high during this time.
The best days in the week to visit Murano and Burano (Tuesday to Friday)
As different shops are in full swing and glass masters are working. On Sundays, many glass masters rest, although some furnaces may be open for tourists. On Mondays, most shops are usually closed.
How to get from Venice to Murano and Burano
The only way to get from Venice to Murano, Burano, or Torcello is by ferry (water bus) or boat.
Vaporetto Water Bus: Ferry Line 12
Board this line at the Fondamente Nove promenade in Venice. With over 30 daily departures, the water bus makes stops at all three islands.
Average cost: €10
Average round-trip travel time: 1 to 2 hours
If you don’t want to bother with ferry schedules, select a shared or private speedboat tour of the lagoon that includes pick ups and drop offs in Venice.
Average cost: €30
Average round-trip travel time: 4 to 6 hours
Make the most of your Murano and Burano tour from Venice
What to eat
Where to eat
Where to stay
Tips
Murano:
- Fresh Seafood: Murano’s lagoon location makes it a haven for fresh fish and seafood dishes. Grilled fish, calamari, and shrimp are popular choices.
- Risotto al Nero di Seppia: A local specialty made with cuttlefish ink, giving the dish a rich, briny flavor.
- Bigoli in Salsa: Thick spaghetti-like pasta served with an anchovy and onion sauce, a true Venetian classic.
Burano:
- Risotto di Pesce: A creamy seafood risotto, often considered the island’s signature dish.
- Fritto Misto di Pesce: Lightly battered and fried mixed seafood, perfect for a casual meal.
- Bussolai: Traditional buttery ring-shaped cookies unique to Burano, often enjoyed as a dessert or snack.
Tips: Try a crisp Soave or a Prosecco for the perfect complement to your meal. Murano and Burano often feature handmade gelato and pastries in their trattorias.
- Trattoria Valmarana: Murano | €20–40 | Outdoor seating with rooftop views, family-friendly. Try the seafood!
- Ristorante La Fornace: Murano | €20–40 | Cozy Venetian spot with outdoor seating. Pasta and local wine are must-haves.
- B Restaurant alla Vecchia Pescheria: Murano | €20–30 | Quiet square, homestyle Venetian seafood. Don't miss the risotto di pesce.
- Trattoria Al Gatto Nero: Burano | Known for fish risotto and stunning canal views. Arrive early to skip the wait.
- Ristorante Pizzeria Principe: Burano | Casual dining with seafood pizzas. Perfect for families or groups.
Tips: Book ahead. Try seafood risotto in Burano and traditional Venetian dishes.
Murano
- Hotel NH Collection Venezia Murano Villa: Chic hotel with lagoon views, a spa, and fine dining. Ideal for modern comforts.
- Hyatt Centric Murano Venice: Stylish stay with warm rooms, a regional restaurant, and a cocktail bar.
- Hotel Conterie: Elegant hotel offering free breakfast and relaxed, genteel rooms.
Burano
- Keep your rain boots on standby in case of high water situations. While it is possible throughout the year, the months of November and December are especially prone to this phenomenon.
- If you’ve selected the hop-on hop-off boat tour or the Turbopass, make sure to check the opening hours and restrictions for each site you want to visit beforehand in order to have a smooth experience.
- Budget for lunch, souvenirs, and more. Try out local delicacies like cicchetti, risotto, or scallops! Take home beautiful glass pieces and lace works.
- Avoid visiting on Mondays, since most shops and factories remain closed for the day.
Frequently asked questions about Murano & Burano day trips from Venice
Can I visit the islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello from Venice in one day?
Yes, all three islands can be visited in a single day trip departing Venice. It takes just 40 mins to reach all the way to the northernmost island of Torcello.
How to get from Venice to Murano and Burano?
The only way to get from Venice to Murano, Burano, or Torcello is by boat or ferry. Take your pick from a selection of speed boat tours, hop-on hop-off boat passes, and cruises to discover the lagoon your way. Or, climb aboard one of the Vaporetto water buses that run consistently between the islands.
Which seasons should be avoided when planning a Venice tour?
July and August are the hottest months, so can be avoided if that’s not your vibe. The winter months of November and December are a good off-season option, but there’s a greater likelihood of ‘high water’ or acqua alta. While February is an atmospherically pleasant month to visit, prices may be hiked—due to an exciting reason!
What is the Venice Carnival and when does it take place?
Enchanting gondola rides, masquerade parties, and fascinating street art and performances make up the lively carnival season in Venice. The festivities take place all through the month of February.
What happens if I’m late to the pick-up point
Ferries and boat services run on a strict schedule, and delayed arrivals might mean you get left behind. Ensure you plan ahead and reach early!
How far are the islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello from Venice?
Murano is the closest, just 4 km and under 10 minutes away. Burano and Torcello are further up around 40 minutes away, at a distance of 9 and 10 km, respectively.
What is the difference between a gondola ride and a boat tour from Venice?
A gondola ride transports you within the canals of the city on a short 30-min expedition, while a speed boat or water bus will jet you between islands in the lagoon or enable a longer tour.