ExperienceWalking Tours

Murano Glass: Local Workshop & Walking Tour

Murano Glass: Local Workshop & Walking Tour

Discover Murano with a local guide. Visit glass studios, meet young artisans, and join a hands-on workshop to craft your unique glass piece.

Duration

Murano Glass Highlights

  • Experience authentic Murano craftsmanship in real artisan workshops.
  • Enjoy exclusive access to Murano’s oldest glass factory, including areas normally closed to the public.
  • Optional hands-on workshop: create your own glass bead under expert guidance.
  • Discover hidden streets, canals, and local traditions beyond typical tourist paths.
  • Benefit from a small-group or private tour for a more intimate and personalized experience.

Meeting Point

Murano Faro vaporetto stop, near the lighthouse.

If you need directions on how to reach Murano by public transport, please feel free to contact me.

Description

Prepare to discover the authentic heart of Murano, far beyond the usual tourist routes and typical factory visits.
This is not a standard “show-and-buy” tour — instead, you’ll step inside real artisan workshops where tradition and creativity come alive.
Meet a talented lampwork artisan who will demonstrate the delicate art of shaping molten glass into beautiful beads.
If you feel inspired, you’ll have the unique opportunity to try your hand at creating your own Venetian glass bead, continuing a centuries-old tradition.

We’ll also visit Murano’s oldest glass factory, active since 1295, where age-old techniques blend seamlessly with modern design and innovation.
As we wander the island’s charming backstreets and hidden corners, you’ll experience Murano’s genuine atmosphere — the local life, the history, and the magic that make this island truly special.

This tour offers an intimate, enriching experience that goes beyond souvenirs, inviting you to connect with Murano’s living art and heritage.

Itinerary

Meeting Point: Murano Faro Lighthouse
We’ll meet at the iconic Murano Faro, the largest lighthouse in the lagoon made of white Istrian stone — a true landmark of the island. Here, you’ll get a brief historical introduction to Murano and its centuries-old glassmaking tradition.

The oldest glass factory of the world
Step inside the world’s oldest glass factory, where tradition meets modern design and fashion. Discover how Murano’s glassmakers blend centuries of expertise with contemporary creativity.We will step in the oldest glass factory in the world, admiring how tradition, design and fashion can be combined together.

Stroll along Rio dei vetrai
Walk along the famous “Canal of the Glassmakers,” the main street lined with renowned glass shops. Learn how artisans and factories continue to keep the glassblowing tradition alive, shaping Murano’s unique identity.

Lampwork Artisan Workshop
Visit a one-of-a-kind artisan studio specializing in lampwork. Watch skilled glass artists create stunning pieces, and get inspired by their delicate craftsmanship.
Optional: You can choose to participate in a hands-on workshop and create your own Venetian glass bead to take home as a unique souvenir.We will make our way to a unique artisan workshop where you can admire the fantastic skills of a lampwork artist who make impressive works of glass. Here you can put artistry in action and create your own Venetian bead!

Hidden Gem: Church of San Pietro Martire
Discover one of Murano’s best-kept secrets — the Church of San Pietro Martire. This Renaissance gem houses breathtaking masterpieces and dazzling glass chandeliers that reflect Murano’s artistic heritage.

Visit to a Dynamic Glassblowing Studio
We will wander around more hidden gems like an impressive industrial complex where they used to make glass beads.

Tour Variations: Customizable Experience
Please note that the itinerary can vary depending on the time of day and type of tour.
Private tours offer the flexibility to tailor the route to your interests — whether you want to focus more on glassmaking techniques, explore additional artisan studios, or discover other hidden corners of Murano.
Small-group tours follow a set itinerary but can be adjusted upon request when possible.
Feel free to discuss your preferences in advance so we can create the perfect Murano experience for you.

What is included

Top-rated Local Guide

Visit to a glass artisan specializing in lampwork

Access to an authentic furnace

Visit to the showroom of the oldest glass factory in the world

What’s not included

Gratuities are at your discretion

Participation in the lampwork workshop is optional and not included in the tour price. Workshop fee: €30 per person, payable on site. Safety and protection equipment are provided. You will keep the Venetian beads you create as a unique souvenir.

Please Note

The shared small-group tour is available in German or in English and limited to 10 participants max.
For English, Italian, Spanish, or German, you can book a private tour.
Private tours are fully customizable and reserved exclusively for your group.

Please arrive at the meeting point at least 5 minutes before the tour starts to ensure a smooth and high-quality experience.

I recommend wearing comfortable shoes

Accessibility

I strive to make this experience as inclusive and accessible as possible.
If you have motor, sensory, or cognitive disabilities, please inform me in advance — I’ll do my best to accommodate your needs.
The shared group tour is not wheelchair accessible, but a wheelchair-friendly private version is available upon request.

FAQs

1. In which languages is the tour available?
The shared small-group tour is available in English and German. Private tours in Italian or Spanish are available upon request.

2. How long does the tour last?
The standard tour lasts 2 hours. Private tours can be customized and extended with additional stops.

3. Where is the meeting point?
The meeting point is always at the Murano Faro vaporetto stop, near the lighthouse. Contact me if you need directions on how to reach Murano by public transport.

4. Is it possible to customize the tour?
Yes, private tours can be fully tailored to your interests.

5. Does the tour include visits to glass factories?
Yes! We will visit Murano’s oldest glass factory, active since 1295, including access to a private showroom and a working furnace. We will also visit a lampwork studio where Venetian glass beads are crafted.

6. Can I create my own glass bead?
Yes, participation in the hands-on workshop is optional (€30 per person, payable on site). You can create your own Venetian glass bead using the lampwork technique.

7. Is the tour suitable for people unfamiliar with Murano glass?
Absolutely! The tour is designed for both first-time visitors and glass enthusiasts.

8. Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The shared small-group tour is not wheelchair accessible. However, accessible private tours can be arranged upon request.

9. Does the tour include visits to Murano’s churches?
Yes, private tours can include visits to:
San Pietro Martire
Murano Cathedral (€3.5 per person)
Santa Maria degli Angeli (advance booking required)

10. Is it possible to visit other islands from Murano?

Yes! From Murano you can easily reach:
San Michele (monumental cemetery)
Burano, Mazzorbo, and Torcello (colorful houses, ancient churches, lagoon landscapes)
I can arrange private or combined tours, or provide information for independent visits.

11. How much walking is involved?
There is moderate walking on mostly flat terrain with some cobblestone sections. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

12. Does the tour run in case of rain?
Yes, most activities take place indoors. In case of extreme weather, I will contact you regarding possible changes.

13. What is the cancellation policy?
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.
No refunds for late cancellations or no-shows.
Full refund or rescheduling offered for cancellations due to bad weather or unforeseen circumstances.

14. Can I book other tours or experiences?
Yes! Many guests combine this tour with other Venice experiences such as food tours, gondola rides, or visits to other islands. Contact me to learn about special offers and customized itineraries.

15. How can I contact you?
For questions:
📧 valerio@detourist.it
📱 WhatsApp: +39 340 671 1267

Booking Experience

No availability? Fully booked? Custom request? Contact me via WhatsApp or email — I might still make it happen!

Contact me