A trip to Venice wouldn't be complete without island-hopping between lace-loving Burano and glass-blowing Murano in the Venetian Lagoon. Embark on a leisurely  journey for an in-depth look at the crafts that have made these islands world-famous. See live demonstrations of the arts of glassblowing on Murano and lacemaking on Burano and learn the secrets of the trade on this Venice islands tour with private boat.

The island of Murano looks similar to Venice but it is much quieter. Charming architecture, canals, and bridges make it a relaxing place to stroll and learn. Internationally renowned for a glassmaking industry that dates back to the 13th century, Murano continues to produce ornate glass objects thanks to generations of glassmakers who apprenticed their sons to make sure this precious art craft survived. Your imagination will run wild as you see  the artisans creating intricate handcrafted pieces.

Further north in the Venetian lagoon lies Burano, whose fairy-tale canals are lined with brilliantly painted houses that seem to vie with each other for your attention. Each house has a different color and legend has it that the fishermen used this to their advantage as the colors helped them navigate their way home through the fog. This picturesque fishing village is also well-known for its lacemaking traditions, which dates back to 1500. Today in the colorful streets of Burano, you can still see old women stiching laces using techniques inspired by the making of fishing nets.

See the magic of Murano glassblowing and Burano lacemaking on this exciting half-day cruise across the Venetian Lagoon with live demonstrations of both arts. Learn about the history of these ancient local traditions and be enchanted by the charm of the quiet canals and piazzas of these culturally vibrant islands. This morning or afternoon tour is a great introduction to the magical islands of the Venetian lagoon.

After meeting your expert guide, board a private water taxi and sail to the timeless island of Murano. Along the way, your guide entertains you with stories of the sites you’ll be passing and before you know it you’ll be disembarking on the shores of Murano. Known for its rich history and unmatched glassblowing, you’ll learn that it was here Europe’s first mirrors were crafted.

Visit one of the ancient glass factories in Murano. You will dock at a handpicked glassblowing workshop where you will stand in awe as skilled artisans still craft their work with the original authenticity of their ancestors. Watch them in action while your guide brings the process to colorful life as vibrantly as the glass creations you’re witnessing.

Jump back onboard the boat and venture out into the colorful island of Burano to enjoy another live demonstration. See the area’s famous multicolored houses huddled tightly together along canal streets with laundry strung between each facing window. Walk the quiet streets, admire the intricate lacework for which Burano's ladies are renowned, catch a glimpse at the massive cathedral whose bell tower leans almost as precipitously as Pisa's. Then be treated to Burano’s centuries-old tradition of lacemaking with an insightful guided visit at a selected hand-made lace workshop before returning back to Venice.