Venice is more than its iconic canals and gondolas—it’s a city composed of over 100 islands, each with unique charm. On this day trip, we ventured beyond the main island to visit Murano, renowned for its glassblowing, and Burano, famous for its colorful fisherman houses and lace-making. Here’s a recap of our adventure exploring these two enchanting islands.
Getting Started: Taking the Vaporetto
Ticket Tips
We began by purchasing a day pass for €25, which covered unlimited rides on the vaporetto (Venice’s water bus). While steep, the pass proved economical for a full day of island hopping.
Route and Timing
We boarded the number 12 vaporetto from the Fondamenta Nove stop. The ride to Murano was smooth, offering views of Venice from the water.
Stop 1: Murano - The Glass Island
Murano Lighthouse
Our first sight upon arriving was the Murano Lighthouse, a landmark built in 1934. While it’s not open to visitors, its sleek design made for a great photo op.
Glassblowing Factory
Murano is synonymous with glassblowing, a craft perfected since the Venetian Republic ordered glassmakers to relocate here in 1291 due to fire hazards. At Wave Murano Glass Factory, we watched artisans create intricate pieces using centuries-old techniques. The free entrance and live demonstrations made this a highlight of the trip.
Grand Canal of Murano
Smaller but just as charming as Venice’s Grand Canal, Murano’s main waterway is lined with quaint restaurants and shops. We strolled along the canal, enjoying the slower pace of this artisan island.
Stop 2: Burano - The Island of Colors
Fisherman Houses and Leaning Tower
Burano greeted us with a kaleidoscope of brightly painted houses, each with its own unique hue. Legend has it that fishermen painted their homes to make them easier to spot in the fog. We also visited Burano’s Leaning Bell Tower, which tilts due to the island’s sinking foundation, much like Venice itself.
Local Treat: Burano Cookies
We sampled Burano cookies for just €1—soft vanilla-flavored treats with a crunchy exterior. Perfect for a quick snack as we wandered the island’s canals.
Return to Venice and Pasta Finale
Heading Back
After exploring Burano, we joined the masses to catch the water bus back to Venice. The sunset views over the lagoon were the perfect end to our island adventure.
First Italian Pasta in Venice
We capped off the day with a well-deserved pasta dinner at a local eatery. For just €7.50 per dish, the carbonara and bolognese were freshly made and incredibly satisfying—our first pasta in Italy, and it did not disappoint.
Final Thoughts
This day trip to Murano and Burano offered a refreshing escape from Venice’s bustling main island. From witnessing masterful glassblowing to wandering Burano’s vivid streets, each island showcased a different facet of Venetian culture. For anyone visiting Venice, a trip to Murano and Burano is a must!
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