A Guide to Visiting Murano, Burano, and Torcello Islands from Venice

When most people picture Venice, they imagine gondolas gliding down the canals, St. Mark’s Square buzzing with tourists, and bridges arching gracefully over the water. But just beyond the city’s main islands lies a trio of gems that often get overlooked: Murano, Burano, and Torcello. Visiting these islands makes for the perfect day trip from Venice, and the easiest way to experience them all is on a guided island-hopping tour.

I joined one of these day tours during my time in Venice, and it was such a great way to soak up more of the lagoon’s history, artistry, and charm without the hassle of figuring out boats and ferry schedules. Here’s everything you need to know about planning your own adventure.

Girl walking over old bridge on Torcello island in Venice, Italy

Blue water over a pier on Murano island in Venice, Italy

Why Visit Murano, Burano & Torcello?

Each of these islands has its own personality and appeal:

Murano is world-famous for its glassmaking tradition that dates back centuries. Watching the glassblowers at work is mesmerizing – fiery furnaces, glowing glass, and incredible skill.
Burano is a photographer’s dream, with rows of brightly painted houses lining the canals. It’s also known for its lace-making tradition, and you’ll find plenty of charming shops showcasing handmade pieces.
Torcello is the quietest of the three, but it holds a special place in Venetian history as one of the lagoon’s earliest settlements. It’s home to beautiful Byzantine mosaics, peaceful pathways, and a slower pace of life.

Visiting all three in one day gives you a real taste of Venice beyond the busy main canals.

How to Get There

While you can reach the islands independently using Venice’s public vaporetto (water bus) system, it can be confusing and time-consuming – especially if you’re short on time. That’s why I recommend booking a guided boat tour. These tours usually last about half a day (4–6 hours) and include transport, a bit of history from a guide, and free time on each island.

You’ll find plenty of tours departing from near St. Mark’s Square or along the waterfront. Prices are usually very reasonable, making this a stress-free and affordable way to experience the lagoon.

What to Expect on the Tour

Stop 1: Murano

Your first stop will likely be Murano, where you’ll step into a traditional glass factory. I got to watch a master glassblower transform a blob of molten glass into a delicate vase right in front of us – it was incredible! There’s usually time to browse the showroom afterwards if you want to pick up a souvenir (and trust me, you’ll be tempted! The glass work is amazing!).

Stop 2: Burano

Next up is Burano, the most colorful island you’ll ever see. Legend has it that fishermen painted their homes in bright shades so they could spot them easily when returning from sea. Wandering the narrow streets here feels like stepping inside a rainbow, and it’s impossible to take a bad photo. Burano is also famous for lace, so don’t miss the chance to see some handmade pieces – even if you don’t buy, it’s fascinating to learn about the tradition.

Colorful buildings and a canal on Burano Island in Venice, Italy

Girl smiling in front of colorful buildings in Burano Island in Venice, Italy

Stop 3: Torcello

The last stop is Torcello, a peaceful island that feels worlds away from Venice’s crowds. Once home to thousands, today it’s mostly quiet fields, a few restaurants, and the stunning Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, which has breathtaking Byzantine mosaics. Climb the bell tower if you have time – the views of the lagoon are worth it.

Old stone building with stairs on Torcello Island in Venice, Italy

Tips for Your Day Tour

Wear comfy shoes: You’ll be walking around cobblestoned streets and pathways.
Bring a camera: Burano especially is one of the most photogenic places in Italy.
Carry cash: Some small shops on the islands may not accept cards.
Plan for snacks: Most tours don’t include meals, so grab a quick bite on Burano or pack some snacks.
Book in advance: Tours can sell out, especially in summer.

Taking a day tour to Murano, Burano, and Torcello was one of the highlights of my trip to Venice. It offered a completely different side of the lagoon – from fiery glass furnaces to candy-colored houses and quiet historical corners. If you’ve got a day to spare, I highly recommend adding this island-hopping adventure to your itinerary.

It’s the perfect way to escape the crowds, soak up Venice’s history and traditions, and see just how diverse this magical lagoon really is.

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