Island Hopping Tour: Mazzorbo, Burano and Murano

If you’re planning a trip to Venice, chances are you’ve heard about the iconic canals and historic landmarks. But stepping beyond the main island can lead you to some of the most charming and less crowded corners of the lagoon. That’s exactly what this Island Hopping Tour offers—a chance to explore three fascinating islands with a knowledgeable guide, all in about four and a half hours. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned visitor, this tour promises a mix of stunning scenery, local craftsmanship, and tranquil escapes from the busy city.

What really sets this experience apart are the intimate visits to Mazzorbo’s vineyards, the colorful streets of Burano, and the artisan glass workshops in Murano. Plus, the small-group setting (capped at just 10 travelers) means you’ll get a more personal, relaxed experience—no rushing or crowded spots. One thing to keep in mind is that the tour involves a fair amount of walking and water bus transfers, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a bit of activity. This tour is ideal for travelers who want a deeper, more authentic look at Venice’s surrounding islands without the hassle of planning each stop on their own.

Key Points

• Small-group experience ensures a personalized trip with plenty of opportunity to ask questions.
• Includes visits to three islands—Mazzorbo, Burano, and Murano—offering a diverse taste of local life, scenery, and craftsmanship.
• Focus on local artisans and vineyards, giving insight into Venetian traditions and contemporary culture.
• Relaxed pace with manageable walking and water bus transfers, perfect for travelers comfortable with some movement.
• Value for price—at about $158 per person, it combines guided insight and multiple island visits in just a few hours.
• Good for those who love photography, thanks to stunning views, vibrant houses, and scenic alleys.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and What You Can Expect

Mazzorbo: Quiet Charm and Local Flavor

Your day begins on the peaceful island of Mazzorbo, a place that hardly sees the crowds of Venice’s main isle. It’s a tiny community of fewer than 300 residents, and exploring its lush gardens, vineyards, and a beautiful monastery gives you a sense of stepping back in time. We loved the way the guide led us through this tranquil space, away from tourist hotspots, offering a genuine glimpse of local life.

According to reviews, visitors find Mazzorbo to be a quaint and off-the-beaten-path gem. Leslie_A shared, “Mazzorbo was very quaint and very much off the beaten path. There wasn’t much to see there except for a church and a vineyard tho and it was a lot of walking!! We absolutely fell in love.” While there isn’t a long list of attractions, the serene atmosphere and lush scenery tend to leave a lasting impression.

Venissa Wine Resort: Sipping Venetian Dorona

Next, you’ll visit the Venissa Wine Resort, a walled vineyard where the native Venetian Dorona grape is grown. Here, you can relax amidst the atmosphere of a working vineyard, which feels like a rare peek into Italy’s winemaking traditions. The guide usually takes about 15 minutes to walk through the area, and the experience is free, allowing you to soak up the authentic vineyard vibe.

Travelers have appreciated this stop for the chance to see a native grape variety that’s hard to find elsewhere. Amanda_L called it “very neat to see the ‘islands’ AND the ‘mainland’,” emphasizing how this glimpse into local agriculture adds depth to the tour.

Burano: A Kaleidoscope of Color

The highlight for many visitors is Burano, with its brightly painted houses, lively streets, and charming bridges. Walking across the long bridge connecting Mazzorbo to Burano, you’ll be greeted by spectacular photo opportunities—the vivid facades of the houses are truly iconic. The tour dedicates about an hour here, giving plenty of time to wander and admire.

Burano is also famous for lace-making traditions and delicious seafood, making it a lively stop for both culture and cuisine. The guide might point out the Love Viewing Bridge, a picturesque spot connecting canals and streets—perfect for capturing that postcard shot. Virginia_J mentioned, “Seeing the garden in Mazzorbo was truly a breath of fresh air,” and the colorful streets of Burano offer a similarly refreshing change of scenery.

Murano: The Glassmaking Capital

The final island is Murano, world-renowned for its centuries-old glassmaking craft. Here, you’ll explore less touristy corners and see artisans at work. The tour includes visits to glass workshops, where you can watch skilled craftsmen create intricate glass pieces, as well as a historic glass factory, Palazzo Barovier&Toso.

The reviews praise this part of the experience for the quality of artisanship. Leslie_A remarked, “It was a lot of walking!! We absolutely fell in love.” This highlights that the opportunities for up-close views of craftsmanship and authentic artisan work are well worth the slight effort involved. Visiting hidden gems like the Church of Saint Peter Martyr and the industrial complex at Punta Conterie allows you to see Murano’s evolution from traditional to contemporary glass art.

Practical Details: What to Know Before Booking

Transportation and Logistics

The tour begins at the meeting point in Venice, Fondaemente Nove, and involves water bus transfers to reach the islands. Tickets for the water bus are not included but can be purchased onboard. The entire experience is guided, with the water bus rides adding to the relaxed, scenic vibe—think of it as a moving sightseeing platform.

Duration and Group Size

Spanning approximately 4 hours 30 minutes, the tour offers a balanced mix of walking and sitting. With a maximum of 10 travelers, the small-group size ensures plenty of interaction with your guide, who is licensed and knowledgeable. The tour is designed for most travelers, and service animals are allowed.

Cost and Value

At $158.20 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive look at Venice’s nearby islands, combining natural beauty, local traditions, and craftsmanship. Considering the multiple stops, guided commentary, and intimate group setting, many find this to be a good value—especially compared to the cost of private tours or visiting each site independently.

Accessibility and Considerations

The tour involves a fair amount of walking and water bus transfers, so it’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable with these activities. The pace is relaxed but still active, so those with mobility concerns might want to plan accordingly. The tour operates most days, but booking ahead is advisable, especially since it’s booked on average 153 days in advance.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Feedback

Reviewers consistently highlight the expertise of the guide—Valerio in particular is praised for being personable and informative. Virginia_J appreciated that the guide took them to places where locals actually live, adding weight to the experience. Leslie_A’s family enjoyed the unique sights and the relaxed pace, even if the walking was somewhat challenging for them, as they noted.

One of the biggest drawcards is the combination of scenic views, authentic craftsmanship, and local ambiance. Visitors often remark that the quiet gardens of Mazzorbo and the colorful streets of Burano are perfect for a slower, more immersive visit.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This is an ideal choice for travelers who want to see multiple islands in a single day without the hassle of planning each step themselves. It suits those interested in local food and wine, artisan crafts, or photography—the colorful houses and scenic spots are perfect backdrops. It’s especially good for travelers who are comfortable with walking and some movement, as the tour involves both activities.

If you’re looking for a deep dive into Venice’s history or nightlife, this tour might not hit all those notes. But if you love authentic, scenic, and relaxed experiences outside the busy city center, this island-hopping trip is a solid, well-rounded choice.

FAQ

Do I need to buy water bus tickets separately?
Yes, tickets are purchased onboard, so plan a few euros for the water bus rides.

How long is the total tour?
It lasts about 4 hours and 30 minutes, including transfers and sightseeing.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is mainly walking and involves some activity, so it’s best suited for older children comfortable with movement.

What’s included in the price?
A licensed guide and a pickup point in Venice—water bus tickets are not included.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start.

Is the tour small enough to ask questions?
Absolutely—groups are limited to 10, making it easy to engage with your guide.

Are there any hidden costs?
Apart from water bus tickets, no. The tour itself is all-inclusive in terms of guidance and access to sites.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes for walking, and bring water to stay hydrated.

Is this tour good for photography?
Yes, the colorful houses, scenic alleys, and picturesque views offer many photo opportunities.

Final Thoughts

This Island Hopping Tour offers a compelling way to experience Venice’s lagoon beyond the main canal. With visits to peaceful Mazzorbo, vibrant Burano, and artisan Murano, you get a well-rounded glimpse into the local culture, craftsmanship, and scenic beauty of the region. The small-group setup, guided insights, and scenic water rides make it a relaxed yet enriching experience.

If you enjoy authentic local experiences, beautiful scenery, and learning about traditional crafts, this tour will likely be a highlight of your Venice visit. It’s especially perfect for those who want to escape the crowds and see a different side of this iconic city’s surroundings.

For travelers seeking an engaging, scenic, and informative excursion that balances leisure with discovery, this island-hopping trip truly delivers—worth considering for a memorable Venetian adventure.