2 Days in Venice: Basilica, Doge, Murano & Burano + Gondola

Exploring the enchanting city of Venice in just two days is a remarkable feat. This guided tour promises to whisk visitors through the most iconic sights, from the grand St. Mark’s Basilica to the opulent Doge’s Palace. But the real highlights await as travelers embark on a gondola ride and venture out to the vibrant islands of Murano and Burano. With expert-led commentary and priority access, this immersive experience offers an unparalleled glimpse into Venice’s rich history and captivating culture. Prepare to be swept away by the city’s timeless beauty and charm.

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Key Points

2-day guided tour of Venice’s top attractions, including St. Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace, Murano, and Burano, with a shared gondola ride along the Grand Canal.
Tour provides priority access to skip the lines at St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace, and features expert guides for in-depth commentary.
Includes a scenic boat trip to Murano and Burano islands, with live demonstrations of glassblowing and lace-making, offering a glimpse into the local crafts.
Limited to small groups of 15 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.
Comfortable shoes are recommended due to the walking involved, and the tour is not suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This 2-day guided tour in Venice offers visitors an immersive experience exploring the city’s iconic landmarks and charming islands.

Priced from $162.67 per person, the tour includes priority access to St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace, a shared gondola ride along the Grand Canal, and a scenic boat trip to Murano and Burano.

Enjoy priority access to St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace, a shared gondola ride, and a scenic boat trip to Murano and Burano.

Guests can witness live demonstrations of glassblowing and lace-making, and enjoy walking tours of these picturesque islands.

The tour is limited to small groups of 15 participants and features expert guides, but isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues.

Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance is available.

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Day 1: Exploring St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace

On the first day, the tour begins with priority access to St. Mark’s Basilica. An expert guide leads the group through this iconic cathedral, sharing insights into its dazzling Byzantine architecture and world-renowned mosaics.

Next, the tour moves to the Doge’s Palace, the former residence of Venice’s rulers. With skip-the-line tickets, the group can explore the palace’s gilded halls, the Bridge of Sighs, and the historic prisons.

The day concludes with a shared gondola ride along the Grand Canal, offering a unique perspective of Venice’s iconic waterways. Participants then have the remainder of the day to explore the city independently.

Gondola Ride Along the Grand Canal

The shared gondola ride along the Grand Canal provides a truly captivating experience for tour participants.

Sitting in the iconic Venetian vessel, they glide through the historic waterways, admiring the stunning architecture and landmarks that line the banks. The guide offers insights into the city’s rich history and culture as the gondola drifts past palaces, churches, and bridges.

This 30-minute ride allows visitors to soak in the serene atmosphere and appreciate the unique charm of Venice from a different perspective.

It’s a must-do activity that seamlessly complements the guided tours of St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace.

Day 2: Discovering Murano and Burano

After experiencing the captivating gondola ride along the Grand Canal, the tour moves to the picturesque islands of Murano and Burano on the second day.

Guests embark on a scenic semi-private boat ride to explore these enchanting destinations. In Murano, they witness a live glassblowing demonstration, marveling at the intricate artistry.

Then, they travel to Burano, known for its vibrant, lace-making tradition. Visitors enjoy a walking tour and a live lace-making demonstration, seeing the islands’ unique cultural heritage.

The small-group experience allows for a personalized and enriching exploration of these Venetian gems.

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Glassblowing Demonstration in Murano

Guests eagerly await the glassblowing demonstration in Murano, an opportunity to witness the renowned artistry of the island’s master craftsmen. The demonstration takes place in a well-equipped studio, where visitors gather around the furnace to observe the intricate process. With swift, deliberate movements, the glassblower transforms molten glass into captivating works of art, shaping vases, figurines, and other exquisite pieces before the audience’s eyes.

| Demonstration Details | |

|———————-|——————-|

| Duration | Approximately 30 minutes |

| Frequency | Hourly, throughout the day |

| Participation | Visitors may not touch or handle the hot glass |

| Availability | Subject to the glassblower’s schedule |

The mesmerizing display showcases the centuries-old tradition of Murano glass, leaving visitors with a newfound appreciation for the skill and precision required to create these beautiful, one-of-a-kind masterpieces.

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Lace Making in Burano

Lace making, a centuries-old tradition, takes center stage in Burano. Visitors witness the intricate process of transforming delicate threads into exquisite lace creations.

Skilled artisans, known for their meticulous handiwork, demonstrate the painstaking techniques passed down through generations. Vibrant hues and intricate patterns distinguish Burano lace, which has gained global recognition for its beauty and quality.

The lace-making tour allows travelers to appreciate the dedication and artistry behind these timeless textiles. Witnessing the lace-making process firsthand is a highlight of the Venetian island excursion, showcasing the enduring legacy of this cherished local craft.

Tour Features and Inclusions

The guided tour offers a number of features and inclusions to enhance the overall experience.

It’s a small group limited to just 15 participants, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience. Visitors will benefit from expert guides for both St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace, providing in-depth commentary and insights.

The tour includes priority access tickets, allowing you to skip the lines. However, it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users.

The tour includes priority access tickets, but is not suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users.

Comfortable shoes are recommended, as there’s quite a bit of walking involved across the two days.

Meeting Point and Timetable

On the first day, the guided tour of St. Mark’s Basilica begins at 11:15 AM.

Visitors then proceed to the Doge’s Palace for a guided visit at 12:00 PM.

The day’s activities conclude with a shared gondola ride at 2:20 PM.

On the second day, the tour of Murano and Burano islands starts at 10:30 AM.

Participants should note that flash photography and backpacks aren’t allowed during the tour.

It’s also recommended to wear comfortable shoes.

The tour group is limited to 15 individuals, ensuring a personalized experience.

The Sum Up

This 2-day guided tour offers an immersive experience in Venice, allowing visitors to explore the city’s iconic landmarks and charming islands. With priority access to St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace, a gondola ride, and visits to Murano and Burano, it’s a comprehensive and convenient way to discover the enchanting beauty and rich history of Venice. This small-group tour ensures a personalized experience and unforgettable memories.