Board a vintage wooden boat at St. Mark’s and cross the Venetian Lagoon to witness Murano’s glassblowers, Burano’s vivid houses and lace-makers, and Torcello’s ancient mosaics. This 5–6 hour circuit blends live demonstrations, short walks, and open-water cruising.
Board a vintage wooden boat at St. Mark’s and cross the Venetian Lagoon to witness Murano’s glassblowers, Burano’s vivid houses and lace-makers, and Torcello’s ancient mosaics. This 5–6 hour circuit blends live demonstrations, short walks, and open-water cruising.
You step off the stone into the salt-bright air of Riva degli Schiavoni and the wooden boat waits, hull rocking like a small promise. The lagoon spreads out — flat light on water, gulls hawking over the wake — and the guide calls for boarding. As the city slips behind you, narrow canals give way to open water where islands punctuate the horizon, each one a distinct pulse: Murano’s furnace glow, Burano’s painted geometry, Torcello’s quiet ruins.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by CITY TOURS CO. LTD · Venice, Veneto
You step off the stone into the salt-bright air of Riva degli Schiavoni and the wooden boat waits, hull rocking like a small promise. The lagoon spreads out — flat light on water, gulls hawking over the wake — and the guide calls for boarding. As the city slips behind you, narrow canals give way to open water where islands punctuate the horizon, each one a distinct pulse: Murano’s furnace glow, Burano’s painted geometry, Torcello’s quiet ruins.
These islands are living layers of Venetian history. Murano kept Venice’s glass secrets safe behind its canals for centuries; its furnaces sit on volcanic-sediment soils brought by ancient rivers. Burano’s color system grew from fishermen’s needs to identify home from sea, and its lace-making is a craft passed down in tight, patient stitches. Torcello is the lagoon’s oldest settlement — basilica mosaics and exposed brick that trace early medieval trade and faith.
Practicalities shape the day. Expect roughly 5–6 hours aboard a covered vintage wooden boat with short on-foot visits: a glassblowing demo in Murano (~60 minutes), a stroll and lace demo in Burano (~60 minutes), and an optional Torcello stop (~60 minutes). Wear flat shoes for cobbled streets and a light wind layer; the boat can shelter from rain but wind across open water bites. Bring a camera with polarized filter for color contrast, small cash for souvenirs, and arrive 10 minutes early at the St. Mark’s meeting point. The pace is relaxed but timed — plan logistics if you have tight connections back to the main islands.
The tour lasts about 5–6 hours (approximately 330 minutes) including boat transfers and time on each island.
Yes — a live glassblowing demo in Murano is included and typically lasts around 60 minutes.
Torcello is an optional stop depending on the chosen ticket option; confirm at booking if Torcello is included.
Boats are covered and the tour usually runs in rain, but it may be canceled in exceptional weather; check policies for refunds or rescheduling.
CITY TOURS CO. LTD operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




You step off the stone into the salt-bright air of Riva degli Schiavoni and the wooden boat waits, hull rocking like a small promise. The lagoon spreads out — flat light on water, gulls hawking over the wake — and the guide calls for boarding. As the city slips behind you, narrow canals give way to open water where islands punctuate the horizon, each one a distinct pulse: Murano’s furnace glow, Burano’s painted geometry, Torcello’s quiet ruins.
You step off the stone into the salt-bright air of Riva degli Schiavoni and the wooden boat waits, hull rocking like a small promise. The lagoon spreads out — flat light on water, gulls hawking over the wake — and the guide calls for boarding. As the city slips behind you, narrow canals give way to open water where islands punctuate the horizon, each one a distinct pulse: Murano’s furnace glow, Burano’s painted geometry, Torcello’s quiet ruins.
These islands are living layers of Venetian history. Murano kept Venice’s glass secrets safe behind its canals for centuries; its furnaces sit on volcanic-sediment soils brought by ancient rivers. Burano’s color system grew from fishermen’s needs to identify home from sea, and its lace-making is a craft passed down in tight, patient stitches. Torcello is the lagoon’s oldest settlement — basilica mosaics and exposed brick that trace early medieval trade and faith.
Practicalities shape the day. Expect roughly 5–6 hours aboard a covered vintage wooden boat with short on-foot visits: a glassblowing demo in Murano (~60 minutes), a stroll and lace demo in Burano (~60 minutes), and an optional Torcello stop (~60 minutes). Wear flat shoes for cobbled streets and a light wind layer; the boat can shelter from rain but wind across open water bites. Bring a camera with polarized filter for color contrast, small cash for souvenirs, and arrive 10 minutes early at the St. Mark’s meeting point. The pace is relaxed but timed — plan logistics if you have tight connections back to the main islands.