Island Hopping Tour: Mazzorbo, Burano and Murano

Set out on a captivating island-hopping adventure through the enchanting Venetian lagoon. Discover the serene beauty of Mazzorbo’s historic monastery and taste the locally produced wines. Admire the vibrant, lace-adorned homes of Burano and witness the artistry of glassblowing in Murano. With a small group and knowledgeable guides, this full-day tour promises rich cultural insights and stunning landscapes. Prepare to be immersed in the unique charms that make these islands true gems of the Venetian archipelago.

Key Points

• This full-day tour offers an intimate experience exploring the Venetian islands of Mazzorbo, Burano, and Murano, with a maximum group size of 10.
• Highlights include visiting a peaceful vineyard and historic monastery in Mazzorbo, witnessing traditional lace-making in Burano, and observing glassblowing demonstrations in Murano.
• The tour includes multiple water bus transfers and a tasting of the unique Venetian Dorona grape at the Tenuta Venissa vineyard.
• With a 97% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, the tour provides an immersive cultural experience and insights from the knowledgeable guide.
• While extensive walking is involved, the tour is stroller accessible and near public transportation, making it accessible for most travelers.

Tour Overview

The Island Hopping Tour takes travelers on a full-day adventure to the Venetian islands of Mazzorbo, Burano, and Murano.

With a maximum group size of 10, the tour offers an intimate experience. Travelers can expect to explore a peaceful vineyard and monastery in Mazzorbo, the colorful homes and lace-making tradition of Burano, and the renowned glassmaking workshops of Murano.

The tour has a 97% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence. Priced from $147.09 per person, the experience includes multiple water bus transfers.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before, providing flexibility for travelers.

Itinerary Highlights

Visitors exploring the Island Hopping Tour can expect to uncover a wealth of captivating experiences across the three distinct Venetian islands.

In Mazzorbo, they’ll stroll through a peaceful vineyard and historic monastery.

Burano enchants with its vibrant, colorful homes and traditional lace-making demonstrations.

The highlight of Murano is witnessing the time-honored art of glassblowing at artisan workshops.

Travelers also savor the unique Venetian Dorona grape at the Tenuta Venissa vineyard.

Throughout the day, the tour immerses guests in the rich cultural heritage and local traditions that define these remarkable Venetian islands.

Meeting and Pickup Details

Travelers meet for the Island Hopping Tour at Campo dei Gesuiti, 4878, 30121 Venezia VE, Italy.

This central location serves as the convenient starting point for the day’s adventures. After gathering, the group boards a water bus to embark on their tour.

The excursion concludes at Murano Navagero, Fondamenta Andrea Navagero, 30141 Venezia VE, Italy. Guests purchase their water bus tickets directly on board.

Travelers residing outside of Venice may also need to pay a €5 access fee on certain dates.

Whether strolling or using a stroller, the tour is accessible to most visitors.

Accessibility and Participation

Although not wheelchair accessible, the Island Hopping Tour is stroller accessible, allowing most travelers to participate. Service animals are also welcome.

The tour takes place near public transportation, making it easily accessible from various points in Venice. While some travelers found the extensive walking (up to 12,000 steps) challenging, the tour emphasizes off-the-beaten-path experiences and local interactions, providing a unique and immersive island adventure.

Traveler Reviews and Experiences

Overwhelmingly positive reviews highlight the tour’s memorable experiences and personalized attention from the guide, Valerio.

Travelers raved about the lace-making demonstrations and glass workshops, immersing them in the local culture.

Though some found the extensive walking challenging, the total of 12,000 steps logged on one tour emphasized the off-the-beaten-path nature of the experience.

Participants appreciated Valerio’s ability to tailor the tour, providing unique insights and interactions.

With an average rating of 4.9 out of 29 reviews, the tour earns a well-deserved Badge of Excellence, cementing its status as a must-do activity for visitors to the Venetian islands.

Discovering Mazzorbo

Mazzorbo, the first stop on the island-hopping tour, offers visitors a serene respite from the crowds of Venice.

This peaceful island is home to a historic monastery and a family-owned vineyard, Tenuta Venissa, which produces a rare golden-hued wine from the indigenous Dorona grape.

Travelers can stroll through the peaceful vineyards, admiring the picturesque views and learning about the island’s winemaking traditions.

The tour also includes a visit to the tranquil San Francesco del Deserto monastery, where visitors can explore the grounds and gain insights into the island’s religious history.

With its unhurried pace, Mazzorbo provides a perfect start to the day’s adventures.

Exploring the Colorful Burano

Next, the tour ventures to the colorful island of Burano, renowned for its vibrant houses and traditional lace-making.

Visitors wander the charming canals, admiring the rainbow of brightly painted buildings. Local artisans demonstrate the intricate process of Burano lace, a centuries-old craft passed down through generations.

Guests have the opportunity to browse the quaint shops, purchasing handmade lace products as unique souvenirs.

The tour provides a glimpse into the island’s rich cultural heritage and the enduring traditions that define Burano’s identity.

Amidst the vibrant scenery, travelers enjoy the captivating essence of this enchanting locale.

Taking in Murano’s Glassmaking Tradition

After exploring the colorful island of Burano, the tour continues its island-hopping journey to the renowned glassmaking hub of Murano. Travelers are immersed in the centuries-old tradition as they visit artisan workshops. Here, skilled craftsmen demonstrate the intricate process of glassblowing, shaping and molding the molten material with expert precision. Visitors can witness the creation of iconic Murano glass pieces, from delicate figurines to vibrant chandeliers. The experience offers a rare glimpse into this revered Venetian art form, fostering a deeper appreciation for the skill and artistry behind each mesmerizing glass creation.

Experience	Highlights	Duration	Cost
Glassblowing Demonstration	Witness the making of Murano glass masterpieces	30-45 minutes	Included in tour
Glass Showroom	Browse an array of exquisite glass products	30-60 minutes	Optional purchases
Glass Factory Tour	Explore the inner workings of a Murano glass studio	45-60 minutes	Included in tour
Personalized Interaction	Engage with master artisans and learn about their craft	Varies	Included in tour

Frequently Asked Questions

What Time Does the Tour Depart and Return?

The tour departs in the morning and returns in the evening, though the exact departure and return times aren’t specified. It’s a full-day experience with multiple water bus transfers between the islands.

Can We Stop for Lunch During the Tour?

The tour allows time for travelers to stop and enjoy lunch during the day. With ample time spent on each island, guests can explore local cuisine and take a break from the sightseeing.

Are There Any Additional Fees Beyond the Tour Price?

The tour price of $147.09 per person covers the guided experiences, but there’s an additional €5 access fee for some dates if you’re traveling outside of Venice. Travelers should budget for water bus tickets purchased on-site as well.

Can We Visit the Tour Sites Independently if We Don’t Join the Group?

Yes, travelers can visit the tour sites independently. The itinerary highlights, including Mazzorbo, Burano, and Murano, are publicly accessible. However, they may not experience the personalized guidance and insider access provided by the group tour.

How Much Time Is Spent at Each Island During the Tour?

The tour spends approximately 1-2 hours at each island, allowing travelers to explore the unique highlights of each destination, like Mazzorbo’s vineyard, Burano’s colorful homes, and Murano’s glass workshops.

The Sum Up

This island hopping tour offers a captivating journey through the Venetian lagoon, immersing visitors in the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of Mazzorbo, Burano, and Murano. From the serene vineyard and historic monastery to the vibrant homes and world-renowned glassblowing, this experience promises a well-rounded adventure filled with stunning landscapes, immersive cultural insights, and the opportunity to savor local delicacies – all with the attentive guidance of knowledgeable professionals.