A daytrip to Burano and Murano Islands is a nice getaway from the crowds of Venice. Plus, these creative islands are known for lacemaking and glassmaking, respectively. I enjoyed these destinations and love sharing tips on how to get the most out of a Burano and Murano daytrip.
Burano and Murano Daytrip
Both these island are accessible only by water. I took the vaporetto or water bus from St. Mark’s Square, arriving first in Murano. Later, I caught the the vaporetto again going a little further to Murano. Overall, it was a wonderful day and nice complement to the more touristy Venice.
Burano Highlights
Burano is just 7 km or 4 m from Venice, a 45-minute trip on a vaporetto from St. Mark’s Square. Burano lace has been world renowned since the Renaissance. It’s also a fishing village with a kaleidoscope of buildings. The fishermen brightly painted their homes, so as to recognize them from the water. Since the Golden Age, they’ve followed a color protocol, where the officials regulate and allow certain colors for lots. I observed buildings in colors, such as, gold, orange, green, lavender and blue. Overall, it makes for wonderful Instagram shots.
Burano lacemaking is legendary, going back to the Renaissance. The industrial lacework has now surpassed the manual traditions. However, Burano lace is still recognized for its premier quality, and the tradition is still honored on the island. Burano is a wonderful place to shop for lace products as weightless souvenirs. There are some traditional lace makers still on the island, such as, Emilia Burano and La Perla Gallery. Here, you can find lace dresses, scarves, tops, lingerie and linens. Additionally, the Museo del Murletto is the lace museum to learn about the history of lacemaking. Another attraction in the main square is the Can Martino Church with a leaning campanile.
Murano Highlights
Murano is a more relaxed version of Venice, also having a Grand Canal. However, it is smaller than the one in Venice and can be crossed by the Ponte Vivarini, or ‘Long Bridge.’ Murano is all about glassmaking. Since the 13th century the glassmakers moved their furnaces to the island, to avoid fire amongst the wooden buildings of Venice. The incredible Mazzega Glass Factory offers a showroom displaying glassmaking and specialized techniques. Another island attraction is the Museo del Ventro or “Glass Museum” in a 17th century palace. The museum displays the history of the glassmaking craft over the years.
Overall, Burano and Murano Daytrip
This daytrip is a must, especially if you have more than a couple days in Venice. Venice crowds can get to you after awhile. So, schedule a day off from the crowds to relax and unwind, while experiencing the creative history of Burano’s lacemaking and Murano’s glassmaking.
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