From Fusina: Tour of the 3 islands of Murano, Burano & Torcello

If you’ve been dreaming of Venice but want to step outside the city’s crowded streets, hopping on a boat tour to Murano, Burano, and Torcello offers a different perspective on this unique corner of Italy. We haven’t personally done this exact tour, but based on reviews and the experience outline, it’s a solid way to see some of the most iconic Venetian islands in one day.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines cultural highlights with scenic cruising—you get both the eye-catching views of the lagoon and the chance to explore towns with their own stories. Plus, the glassblowing demonstration in Murano and the brightly colored houses of Burano are genuinely memorable.

One thing to keep in mind: this tour happens rain or shine, and on busy days, the itinerary might switch around a bit, especially between Murano and Torcello. So, if you’re after a very specific order or weather-sensitive experiences, plan accordingly. This tour generally suits travelers who enjoy a mix of guided sightseeing, free exploration, and picturesque boat rides, making it a good fit for those who appreciate cultural sights but also want a relaxed day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Diverse island visits: Experience Venice’s famed glassmaking, colorful neighborhoods, and Byzantine mosaics all in one day.
• Scenic cruising: Enjoy cruising through the Venetian Lagoon, which offers stunning views and great photo opportunities.
• Knowledgeable guides: The guides are praised for their insights, making the experience more engaging and informative.
• Flexible exploration: Free time on each island lets you soak in the atmosphere at your own pace.
• Weather considerations: The tour runs rain or shine, so be prepared for different weather conditions.
• Limited accessibility: Not suitable for electric wheelchair users or those with mobility issues, as the tour involves boat travel and walking.

This tour is designed as an 8.5-hour journey starting from Fusina, a little outside the main Venice area. You’ll hop on a boat and cruise through the stunning Venetian Lagoon, enjoying the views of the water, islands, and the skyline. It’s a peaceful way to kick off the day, with most of the itinerary centered around transportation and exploration.

The first stop is Murano, the famous glassmaking island. Here, you’ll get to witness a live glassblowing demonstration at a historic furnace. It’s a chance to see skilled artisans at work and perhaps pick up a special souvenir directly from the source. The demo is not just visually impressive but also educational, explaining centuries-old techniques.

After about 75 minutes on Murano, you’ll cruise to Burano. This is often the highlight for visitors because of its brightly colored houses—every street feels like a postcard. The island is also renowned for its lace tradition, which you can learn about during your free time. You could stroll through the streets, stop for a coffee, or browse local shops for unique lace products.

Next up, the quiet Torcello—the least populated of the three. Its Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta (not included in the tour, but worth noting) features amazing Venetian-Byzantine mosaics. While the tour may not include entry, the mosaics are visible from the outside, and the island’s tranquil atmosphere offers a relaxing contrast after the busier Murano and Burano.

The itinerary includes multiple short cruises between islands, capitalizing on the lagoon’s scenic beauty. These cruising segments are also a chance to enjoy the views, spot some local wildlife, and appreciate the unique landscape of the Venetian archipelago.

Fusina Start Point
Your day kicks off at the ACTV stop near Punta Fusina. The starting point is straightforward, but make sure to arrive early since the tour is well-structured and punctual.

Cruise to Murano (45 mins)
The first leg is a relaxed boat ride through the lagoon, letting you settle in and get a glimpse of Venice from the water. This part of the cruise sets the tone—beautiful, calming, and full of anticipation.

Murano Visit (75 mins)
Once on Murano, the highlight is the glassblowing demo in a historic furnace. Reviewers often mention how fascinating it is to see artisans craft delicate glass objects in real time, making the experience both visual and educational. Afterward, there’s free time to explore. You might find it worth browsing the shops or picking up a handcrafted souvenir.

Cruise to Burano (45 mins)
This cruise is another scenic stretch through the lagoon. As you arrive in Burano, the colorful houses immediately catch your eye. Many visitors praise Burano for its charm—perfect for wandering, snapping photos, or relaxing in a café.

Burano Exploration (2 hours)
The guided part of the visit covers the island’s lace-making tradition and its vibrant streets. You’re free to roam on your own afterward, which many find ideal for absorbing the atmosphere at their own pace.

Cruise to Torcello (15 mins)
A short, pleasant ride takes you to the most tranquil of the islands. Torcello’s quiet streets and the Byzantine mosaics in the cathedral are highlights, especially for those interested in history and art.

Torcello Free Time (1 hour)
You can relax, take photos, or visit the outdoor mosaics. It’s a peaceful end to the island hopping, with fewer crowds and a slow pace.

Return Cruise (100 mins)
The journey back to Fusina is longer, giving you time to reflect on the day’s sights and enjoy the lagoon scenery one last time.

Many reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides, mentioning how they add context and stories that bring the islands to life. “Our guide was so enthusiastic and gave us great insights into Murano’s glassmaking tradition,” one review notes.

The cruising segments are often highlighted as a favorite part—”The views of the lagoon are stunning, and it’s such a relaxing way to see the islands,” one traveler shared. Others mention that the free time on each island allows for personal discovery, whether browsing shops or strolling streets.

Some minor downsides include the weather dependency—bad weather like fog can cause changes or cancellations—and the fact that mobility is limited since electric wheelchairs aren’t allowed and the tour involves walking and boat transfers.

Considering the full 8.5-hour experience, the cost seems reasonable for the depth of the experience, especially given the guided context and the glass demo. You’re not just paying for transport—you get expert insights and an authentic peek into Venetian island life. If you’re someone who loves scenic boat rides combined with cultural stops, this tour offers good bang for your buck.

This tour is perfect for curious travelers who want to see more of the Venetian lagoon than just the city streets. It’s great if you enjoy scenic cruises, cultural sights, and local artisan demonstrations. Keep in mind it’s not suited for those with mobility issues, given the boat transfers and walking involved.

If you’re interested in Venice’s craftsmanship traditions or want a leisurely day exploring colorful neighborhoods, this tour will likely meet your expectations.

This guided boat tour provides a well-rounded look at Venice’s most famous islands without feeling rushed. The combination of scenic cruising, cultural insights, and free time makes it a practical choice for those wanting to experience Venice beyond the city center.

The expert guides, beautiful scenery, and unique stops make it a worthwhile outing, especially if you value authentic demonstrations like glassblowing and enjoy wandering through vibrant, peaceful towns.

While it’s not perfect for everyone—especially those with mobility limitations—most travelers who appreciate scenic views and cultural experiences will find this tour rewarding. Just be prepared for the weather, and you’ll have a day full of memorable sights and stories.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, children who enjoy boat rides and exploring colorful towns often find it engaging. However, keep in mind the tour involves walking and boat transfers, so plan accordingly.

How long is each segment of the cruise?
The cruise segments between Fusina and Murano, Murano to Burano, and Burano to Torcello range from about 15 to 45 minutes, giving a nice balance of sailing and sightseeing.

What’s included in the tour?
The main highlights include guided explanations, the glassblowing demonstration in Murano, and free time on each island. Entry to the Cathedral in Torcello isn’t included, but mosaics can be seen from outside.

Can I buy souvenirs during the tour?
Yes, especially on Murano and Burano, which have shops selling glassware and lace. Many travelers find it convenient to browse and purchase during the free exploration times.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
The tour runs regardless of weather conditions, rain or shine. However, very bad weather like fog could cause changes or cancellations based on port authority rules.

Is there any age restriction?
The information doesn’t specify age restrictions, but the tour isn’t suitable for electric wheelchair users and involves walking and boat transfers.

How do I meet the tour?
The meeting point is at the ACTV stop near Punta Fusina, with coordinates provided. Be sure to arrive early to ensure a smooth start.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if plans change.

Whether you’re after a relaxing day exploring Venice’s islands or eager to learn about glassmaking and lace craftsmanship, this tour offers a balanced taste of what makes the lagoon so special.