Island of Murano - Venetian Islands Italy
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The Island of Murano is a short vaporetto ride from Venice, Italy. One of the outlying Venetian Islands, Murano’s world-famous glassblowing factories make it a popular daytrip from the “City of Canals.” Colorful houses, arched bridges, and trio of Italian Renaissance churches add to the village’s allure. Our Island of Murano Italy guide will cover it all.
Murano Island is comprised of 7 islets linked together by a series of walking bridges. Glass factories that carry on to the community’s centuries old tradition of glassmaking dot the landscape. Many of the businesses offer live demonstrations.
Our Island of Murano guide will familiarize you with the region’s glass factories, galleries, shops, and canals. Our article covers how to get to Murano, tips for tours, the best time to go, a map, and ideas for things to do.
VENICE ITALY TOURS & ATTRACTIONS
WHY VISIT THE ISLAND OF MURANO ITALY
Visitors to the Island of Murano can observe master glass and jewelry crafters at work. They can take in the beautiful Mediterranean architecture, shop for unique gifts, and rub elbows with locals who are eager to share their heritage and livelihood. Here are 3 great reasons to visit Murano Italy:
Learn About Murano Glass
Originally a fishing village, Murano’s glassmaking tradition developed in the 13th century. At that time, the Venetian government relocated glassmakers from the city to the island in order to avoid the risk of factory fires, and to keep the craftsmen’s techniques a secret. Today, Murano’s many glass factories continue to produce magnificent works.
Visit Island of Murano Churches
Murano Island is home to three Renaissance churches packed with artwork by Donatello, Bellini, and Giovane. Visit the 12th century Basilica dei Santi Maria e Donato, the 16th century Church of Santa Maria Degli, and Church of San Pietro Martire.
Enjoy Murano Island’s Unique Vibe
Murano has a unique vibe with a large number of gritty factories adjoining showrooms filled with stunning Murano glass. The village’s narrow pedestrian streets and many canals are similar to Venice-proper, but the energy is more laid back and intimate.
THINGS TO DO IN VENICE ITALY
WHERE IS MURANO ITALY
Murano Italy is one of the Venetian Islands. It is a frazione (village) that is part of the greater city of Venice. Murano is located about 1.5 kilometers from Venice along the Marani Canal in the Venetian Lagoon. It’s 1 square mile land mass supports about 5,000 residents.
HOW TO GET TO MURANO ISLAND
There are three main ways to travel to Murano from the City of Venice: Vaporetto (water bus); water taxi; and by private tour. We used the Vaporetto and found it cheap, efficient, and clean.
Tips for Utilizing the Vaporetto
Fondamenta Nova (Line 12) is the closest Vaporetto stop for traveling to Murano. The trip lasts about 10 minutes.
From the Venice train stations (Piazzale Roma and Santa Lucia) use Line 3. The trip is about 20 minutes.
When arriving in Murano: Use the Colonna stop for visits to glass workshops; the Faro stop to be near the lighthouse; or the Museo stop to be near the Glass museum.
Be aware, vaporetto lines leaving Murano Island can get very long (1-2 hours) in the warmer months. Avoid leaving the island in the busy mid-afternoon hours.
Consult the Venice ACTV app for current vaporetto schedules and ticket prices.
MURANO AND BURANO ITALY TOURS
Many visitors will combine a trip to the Island of Murano with visit to other Venetian Islands. Bundling a trip to Murano with the Island of Burano is a very popular choice (we loved this combination). Avoid the hassle of deciphering ACTV Vaporetto schedules and wasting time standing in lines by booking a guided tour.
Try one of these Murano and Burano Italy tours:
ISLAND OF MURANO HOTELS
If you decide you would like to spend the night in Murano, the island has a variety of accommodations ranging from comfortable rooms to establishments with luxury amenities. Try one of these well-reviewed Murano Italy hotels:
Hyatt Centric Murano Venice - 4-star hotel, housed in a former glass factory
Murano Palace - 3-star hotel; quiet, romantic, overlooking canals
NH Collection Venezia Murano Villa - 4 star luxury, boutique hotel
MAP OF MURANO ITALY
THINGS TO DO IN MURANO ITALY
Attend a Glass Blowing Demonstration: Visit a glass factory for a glass blowing demonstration. Then, tour the factory’s showroom for amazing products. Try one of these tours:
Stroll Fondamenta dei Vetrai: Running alongside a picturesque canal, Murano’s main drag is a pedestrianized street bordered by elegant glass boutiques, outdoor dining, and specialty food stores. Later, peel off to explore the art studios along Murano’s alleys.
Visit Murano’s Byzantine-Romanesque Churches: Tour the Basilica dei Santi Maria e Donato, the Church of Santa Maria Degli, and Church of San Pietro Martire.
Take a Walk Along Murano’s Courtyards & Canals: Explore the 7 islets of Murano on foot. Stroll past colorful villas, fanciful bridges, flower-strewn alleys, and boat-filled canals.
Shop for Glass Along the Rio dei Vetrai: Visit the main promenade for glass shops and take home a souvenir. Peruse the fantastical chandeliers, figurines, vases, lamps, and jewelry.
Take a Motoscafi Ride: See Murano like the locals do – from its canals. Cruise under the island’s many bridges in a private water taxi (motoscafi). Book a trip at one of the major Murano piers.
Enroll in a Workshop or Class: Learn the art of glass blowing from a master. Many Murano Island factories and galleries offer classes to the public. Try one of these classes:
Have Lunch at a Local Trattoria: Enjoy lunch canal-side, in an open-air piazza, or a garden tucked behind a restaurant. Expect lots of fresh seafood and traditional Venetian pastries.
Explore the Museo del Vetro (Murano Glass Museum): Learn about Murano glass from the Roman era to the modern day.
View the Blue Glass Comet in Campo Santo Stefano: In the center of Murano Island, see the giant contemporary glass comet by Simon Cenedese. The sculpture is a striking addition to the classical city square.
Take a Photo by the Faro Lighthouse: The 20th century active lighthouse is located on the southeastern tip of the island. You can’t climb the structure, but it makes a great backdrop for photos.
ISLAND OF MURANO ITALY TIPS
Glass Factories
Support local artists by buying certified Murano glass that is signed by the artist and comes with a certificate of authenticity (labeled “Vetro Artistico Murano”). Avoid purchasing from illegal vendors.
Look for glass demonstrations that are offered by well established factories. Be wary of “free” demonstrations (some are associated with high pressure sales).
It is common to be ushered into factory showrooms after glass demonstrations. Do not feel obligated to buy. It is acceptable practice in most businesses to respectfully negotiate prices.
In showrooms and galleries, ask before handling large (and expensive) glass items. Ask before taking photos.
TRUSTED TRAVEL RESOURCES
Churches
If you plan to visit churches, make sure clothing covers your knees and shoulders.
Restrooms & ATMs
Public restrooms and ATMs can be found scattered in high-traffic areas throughout Murano Island. Credit cards and cash are generally accepted.
Restaurants
When dining, ask for the daily special or “menu del Giorno” (often handwritten on a chalkboard). These meals are usually the freshest, most affordable, authentically local meals.
Accessibility
Those with mobility impairments may find the brick walks and stairs by bridges challenging. However, most terrain is flat and the vaporetto boats are wheelchair accessible.
VENICE ITALY WEATHER
Venice Italy has a subtropical climate with high year-round humidity. Temperatures throughout the year average: Spring (March – May) 54’ F, Summer (June – Aug) 82’ F, Fall (Sept – Nov) 65’ F, Winter (Dec – Feb) 47’ F.
Rain falls throughout the year. June is the wettest month. However, the Island of Murano is the most apt to flood between October and January.
BEST TIME TO VISIT MURANO ISLAND
The best time of day to visit the Island of Murano is typically between the hours of 9 am and noon. At this time, the glass factories, shops, and restaurants will be opening, but crowds are thinner than in the afternoon.
The best months to visit Murano Italy are April, May, June, and September when the weather is warm, all businesses are operating, and crowds are just below peak level.
We hope you are able to bring back a glass treasure from the Island of Murano, Laura and Randy
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