Enjoy an unforgettable tour of Murano, Burano and Torcello.

This scenic boat tour of Murano, Burano, and Torcello offers an engaging way to explore some of Venice’s most famous lagoon islands. Priced at $89.80 per person and lasting approximately 4 hours and 50 minutes, the tour provides a well-rounded experience that balances guided visits with free time on each island. It is ideal for visitors seeking an authentic glimpse into Venice’s artisan traditions without the hassle of planning individual trips.

The tour departs from the Alilaguna & Bucintoro Viaggi Ticket Office near San Marco. It features a boat transfer, entrance to a glassworks, and a visit to a lace shop, all complemented by multilingual commentary aboard the vessel. Notably, the tour has received a perfect 5.0 rating from one review, emphasizing its enjoyable pacing and beautiful scenery. While no guide accompanies you on land, the guided commentary on the boat helps keep the experience informative and lively.

Key Points

• Visit three iconic islands: Murano, Burano, and Torcello, in just under five hours
• See live glassblowing demonstrations at Murano’s renowned glass factories
• Explore Burano’s vibrant, colorful houses and learn about its tradition of lacework
• Enjoy free time on each island to shop, take photos, or relax
• Includes boat transfer and entry to key sites, making it a convenient, all-in-one experience
• Perfect for those wanting a guided overview of Venice’s surrounding islands without a full-day commitment

The Starting Point Near Venice’s Heart

The tour begins at the Alilaguna & Bucintoro Viaggi Ticket Office close to San Marco, making it easy to access from central Venice. Travelers are advised to arrive 20 minutes early to show their voucher and receive tickets. The group size is capped at 30, ensuring a comfortable experience and manageable groups for photo opportunities.

The meeting point is conveniently located near public transportation, reducing travel stress at the start of the day. The mobile ticket feature enables quick access, and the tour ends back at the original meeting point, allowing for easy continuation of your Venice explorations.

Scenic Boat Transfer and Island Views

The boat transfer itself is a highlight, offering picturesque views of Venice’s lagoon. As the vessel glides across the water, travelers get a sense of the city’s connection to its surrounding waterways. The scenery frames each stop perfectly, setting the stage for engaging visits to each island’s unique sights.

This portion of the tour provides a relaxing way to get from Venice to the islands, avoiding the need for multiple separate boat bookings. The boat journey also serves as an informative experience, with onboard commentary shedding light on Venice’s lagoon geography and history.

Murano’s Glassmaking Tradition and Museum

The first stop is Murano Island, famous worldwide for long-standing glassmaking heritage. The tour includes entry to a glassworks, where visitors watch live glassblowing demonstrations by skilled artisans. These professionals showcase traditional techniques that have been passed down through generations.

Visitors have about 2 hours and 15 minutes on Murano, enough time to explore the Museo del Vetro, which traces the history of glass over the centuries, and browse local shops for handcrafted souvenirs. The colorful mosaic floor in the Church of Santa Maria and San Donato adds to Murano’s charm, and its stories of glass innovation are woven into every corner of the island.

Burano’s Vibrant Houses and Lace Traditions

Next, Burano is celebrated for its brightly painted houses, which make for stunning photos and a cheerful atmosphere. Situated near Torcello, Burano consists of small, connected islands, with bridges linking its colorful streets.

The tour offers a guided visit to understand why the houses are painted in such vibrant hues and the island’s famous lacework tradition. After a guided overview, there is plenty of free time—about 2 hours and 15 minutes—to explore, shop for handcrafted lace, or enjoy a leisurely lunch amid the lively streets.

Torcello’s Quiet Charm and Historical Significance

The third stop is Torcello, known for its peaceful ambiance and historical importance. Here, visitors can soak in the tranquil atmosphere and learn about the island’s past as a vital part of Venice’s history. The tour emphasizes Torcello’s peaceful setting and the chance to see its ancient cathedral, which guests can visit for an additional 5 EUR.

Time on Torcello is also flexible, allowing visitors to wander independently, appreciate its river views, and reflect on the quieter side of Venetian life that has endured for centuries.

Everything Included and Things to Keep in Mind

The tour package covers boat transfers, visits to Murano, Burano, and Torcello, entrance to the glassworks, and a lace shop visit. An informative commentary in multiple languages is provided on board, enriching the experience with background stories and historical insights.

Not included are food and drinks, which visitors should plan for during free time, and Torcello Cathedral tickets (costing 5 EUR). There is no guide on land, so self-exploration is encouraged after the guided boat segment.

Travelers should be aware of the cancellation policy, which allows full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. Due to the nature of the tour, arriving early is essential; missing the meeting time means missing the tour without refund.

The Value of a Well-Paced, Artisan-Focused Tour

This tour offers a balanced schedule that allows about an hour on each island, providing enough time to explore, shop, and photograph. The guided boat journey and access to artisan demonstrations give added value for those interested in Venice’s craft traditions.

The $89.80 price reflects the experience’s inclusions, making it a good choice for those wanting a rundown without overcommitting. The happy review highlights the well-paced nature and beautiful scenery, reinforcing its appeal for a broad audience.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This experience suits visitors who prefer a structured but flexible day exploring Venice’s lagoon. It’s particularly good for artisanship lovers, photographers, or anyone wanting to see the colorful, quieter side of Venetian life. The tour’s shorter duration makes it manageable for those with limited time but who still want a meaningful glimpse of the islands.

It’s also ideal for families and small groups seeking a comfortable, informative excursion that balances guided elements with free exploration.

The Sum Up: A Practical Way to See Murano, Burano, and Torcello

This 4-hour, guided boat tour offers a convenient, insightful, and beautifully paced way to experience Venice’s nearby islands. With live glassblowing demonstrations, vibrant houses, and peaceful scenery, it showcases the best of what these islands have to offer.

While there’s no guide on land, the onboard commentary and free time provide ample opportunity to enjoy each site at your own pace. The tour’s affordable price and positive review underscore its value, especially for those wanting a focused, artisan-centered experience.

Perfect for first-time visitors and art lovers, this tour makes it easy to appreciate Venice’s lagoon beyond the main city streets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour include a guide on land?
No, the tour features a guide only aboard the boat. The islands are explored independently after the guided commentary on the vessel.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. Last-minute cancellations are not eligible for refunds.

Is food included?
No, food and drinks are not included and should be purchased separately during free time on each island.

Are there additional costs?
Visitors can choose to visit the Torcello Cathedral for an extra 5 EUR. Otherwise, all major sites and entry are included.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible for most travelers, with a maximum group size of 30, ensuring a comfortable experience.