Island Hopping Tour: Mazzorbo, Burano and Murano

Discover Venice’s Outlying Islands with an Expert Guide

This island-hopping tour in Venice offers a compelling way to escape the busy city and explore three of the most captivating islands in the lagoon. For $158.20 per person, the approximately 4-hour 30-minute experience takes visitors from Venice to Mazzorbo, Burano, and Murano with a knowledgeable guide. The tour is designed for small groups, with a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience with plenty of time for photos, exploration, and learning.

What makes this tour stand out is its well-planned itinerary, which includes visits to a vineyard, colorful houses, lace ateliers, and glass workshops. While the tour involves some walking, it’s balanced with relaxing water bus rides. This tour suits those who want a comprehensive look at the Venetian lagoon’s lesser-known treasures, combined with engaging storytelling and authentic sights.

Key Points

• Visit three iconic islands in a single day: Mazzorbo, Burano, and Murano
• Includes guided walks, glassmaking demonstrations, and vineyard visits
• Learn about Venetian wine, lace making, and glass craftsmanship
• Small group size ensures a more intimate experience
• Tour departs from Venice Fondamente Nove with a flexible mobile ticket option
• Most travelers book in advance, often 153 days ahead

Starting Point and Transportation Logistics

The tour begins at Venice’s Fondamente Nove, where travelers meet the licensed guide. From there, the group boards a water bus that takes you across the lagoon, offering scenic views during the transfers. The pick-up point is convenient, near public transportation, making it easy to reach from central Venice. The tour concludes in Murano, from where travelers can conveniently return to Venice via water bus.

Since water bus tickets are purchased onboard, travelers should prepare for that additional cost. The tour duration includes multiple water crossings, but the overall pace remains comfortable, with plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Exploring Mazzorbo’s Quiet Charm and Vineyards

The first stop is Mazzorbo, a tranquil and less crowded island with a population of fewer than 300 residents. Here, the guide takes groups on a fancy stroll through lush gardens, stunning vineyards, and a beautiful monastery. The highlight is a visit to Tenuta Venissa, a walled vineyard where the Venetian Dorona grape is cultivated. This native Venetian wine resort provides insights into local viticulture, in a peaceful setting away from tourist crowds.

Expect about 30 minutes at Mazzorbo for walking and sightseeing. The emphasis is on slow exploration and appreciation of the island’s idyllic atmosphere. While there’s little to see besides the church and vineyard, the tranquility here offers a chance to truly take in the local ambiance.

Visiting Venissa: The Venetian Dorona Grape

A key part of the tour is the walk to Venissa Wine Resort, a 15-minute stroll through the island’s enchanting environment. The resort is a perfect spot to relax amid lush vineyards and learn about the Venetian Dorona grape, which is unique to this region. This native variety produces a distinctive wine that’s part of Venice’s vinicultural heritage.

This stop offers a chance to understand traditional Venetian wine-making and enjoy the picturesque surroundings. It’s an experience appreciated for its authenticity and the chance to see a working vineyard that’s integral to the island’s identity.

The Bright Colors and Lace of Burano

From Mazzorbo, the tour crosses a long bridge to reach Burano, known worldwide for its brightly colored houses and lace-making traditions. The walk along the lagoon’s edge lasts about one hour, leading to the vibrant streets and canals of Burano.

At this stop, visitors find a lively scene of lace ateliers and seafood restaurants. The Love Viewing Bridge connects three canals and offers a perfect photo opportunity of the colorful streets. The tour includes about 15 minutes at the bridge and around 15 minutes in Piazza Baldassarre Galuppi, where lace makers work at traditional ateliers.

Burano’s lively atmosphere and colorful architecture make it one of the most photogenic spots in the lagoon, and the guide shares stories about local craft traditions, adding depth to the visit.

Crossing Ponte della Vigna and Discovering a Unique View of Burano

The next stop is the Ponte della Vigna, a 15-minute walk across a scenic bridge with views of fishing boats and docked fishermen’s houses. This crossing offers a chance to observe everyday life on the island, with views of the harbor and the charming boats docked along the canal.

This part of the tour emphasizes the peaceful, authentic side of Burano, away from the more touristy areas, giving visitors a glimpse of local life and the colorful scenery that defines this island.

The Leaning Bell Tower of San Martino

Next, the tour proceeds to San Martino, where a 15-minute walk guides guests down secret alleys to the bridge of Terranova. Here, the guide highlights the leaning bell tower of the church, which offers a breathtaking view of the island’s sharp slope.

This spot is a favorite for its dramatic perspective on Burano’s architecture and the opportunity to see how the island’s buildings subtly tilt. It’s an ideal setting for photos while learning about the island’s unique landscape from the guide.

Exploring Piazza Baldassarre Galuppi and the Lace Makers’ Workshop

The tour then visits Piazza Baldassarre Galuppi, where lace-making artisans work at traditional lace ateliers. Visitors learn about Burano’s centuries-old tradition of lace production, which remains a vital part of local culture. The 15-minute stop here includes a visit to a lace atelier and the famous Love Viewing Bridge, connecting three colorful streets and canals.

This segment offers a mix of craftsmanship, local scenery, and photo opportunities, showcasing the island’s artisanship and lively street life.

Moving to Murano’s Glassmaking Heritage

From Burano, the group boards the water bus to Murano, arriving after about 30 minutes. Murano is renowned for its long-standing tradition of glassmaking. Here, the tour explores less touristy corners, visiting artisan workshops and glass factories that are less frequented, emphasizing authentic craftsmanship.

The highlight is a visit to Ferro Vetro Monica Cavaletto, where a lampwork artist demonstrates glassmaking skills, creating impressive glass pieces in a 15-minute showcase. The Rio dei Vetrai walk allows visitors to see furniture workshops and observe how artisans continue the glassblowing tradition.

Murano’s Palazzo Barovier&Toso offers a look at the oldest glass factory in the world, where tradition intersects with design and fashion. The 15-minute visit is an engaging glimpse into the history of Murano’s glassmaking.

Hidden Gems: Murano’s Churches and Industrial Heritage

The tour includes visits to the Church of Saint Peter Martyr, which houses Renaissance masterpieces and stunning glass chandeliers—a perfect example of Murano’s artistic blend. Plus, the Punta Conterie area reveals a former bead-making complex, offering insights into the island’s industrial past.

These hidden corners provide deeper context to Murano’s craftsmanship and its evolution from traditional artisans to modern designers.

Authentic Glassmaking Demonstrations and Workshops

Throughout the Murano segment, visitors see glass artisans at work in various workshops. The 15-minute stop at the Ferro Vetro workshop offers a close look at a lampwork artist creating intricate glass pieces, highlighting the skill involved in Murano’s famous glass art.

The Rio dei Vetrai walk further demonstrates how the glassblowing tradition continues today, with artisans balancing tradition and innovation in their craft. These demonstrations are both educational and visually captivating.

Practical Details and Booking Insights

The tour price of $158.20 per person includes all stops, guided walks, and demonstrations. The meeting point is in Venice, with an easy-to-find pickup point in VeneziaCampo dei Gesuiti. The tour does not include water bus tickets, which are purchased onboard.

Most travelers book this tour around 153 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. The small group size ensures a more intimate and engaging experience, and the licensed guide provides expert commentary throughout.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

This island-hopping tour caters to those interested in local culture, craftsmanship, and scenic views. It’s ideal for visitors who enjoy guided walks, artisan demonstrations, and exploring off-the-beaten-path spots. The tour’s pacing balances sightseeing with relaxation, but some walking is involved, especially in the charming alleys and bridges.

While suitable for most travelers, those with mobility issues should consider the walking distances and uneven surfaces. The small group size and personalized guiding make it a rewarding choice for those seeking depth over rushed sightseeing.

The final stop at Murano showcases both the famous glassmaking and less touristy spaces where artisans work. Visitors see craftsmen creating impressive glass pieces and learn about Murano’s historic glass factories. The Palazzo Barovier&Toso exemplifies how tradition blends with fashion and design, giving a comprehensive picture of Murano’s craftsmanship.

Murano’s churches and industrial sites also reveal the island’s layered history, beyond its well-known glass workshops. This diverse mix of attractions makes Murano a fitting end to the island-hopping experience.

This 4.5-hour tour offers a comprehensive look at Venice’s lagoon islands, combining scenic walks, artisan demonstrations, and local culture. The small group size and expert guidance ensure a personal experience, while the stops at Mazzorbo, Burano, and Murano expose visitors to authentic traditions, stunning visuals, and fascinating stories.

While the walking segments may be challenging for some, the relaxing water bus rides and informative guides make it a worthwhile choice for those eager to go beyond Venice’s main attractions. This tour is particularly well-suited for culture enthusiasts, craft lovers, and photographers looking to capture the true spirit of the lagoon.

Is transportation between islands included?
Water bus tickets are not included but are purchased onboard, making the schedule flexible.

How long is the tour in total?
The entire experience lasts approximately 4 hours 30 minutes, including guided walks, demonstrations, and water crossings.

What are the main stops on this tour?
The tour visits Mazzorbo, Venissa Vineyard, Burano, and Murano, with multiple artisan workshops and scenic viewpoints.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the walking distances and the need for comfortable footwear.

Does the tour include food or drinks?
No, food and drinks are not included, but the tour offers insights into local cuisines and crafts.

How do I book this tour?
Most travelers book around 153 days in advance; booking online guarantees your spot due to limited group sizes.

Are there any accessibility considerations?
Some walking might be uneven or involve steps, so those with mobility issues should plan accordingly.

Can service animals join the tour?
Yes, service animals are allowed on this tour.

What is the cancellation policy?
Full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.