When most people think of Venice, they picture gondolas gliding through canals, romantic walks across bridges, and the grandeur of St. Mark’s Square. But the true soul of Venice lies beyond its main island—in the timeless, colorful, and artisanal beauty of its surrounding lagoon islands. For those looking to enrich their Venetian adventure, TPO.Travel’s tour to the Islands of Burano and Murano with an optional stop at Torcello is an unforgettable journey into the artistic and cultural heart of the Venetian lagoon.
This tour offers not just transportation but a guided exploration through three of the most iconic and charming islands—each with a unique story, craft, and atmosphere. With the seamless logistics and expert local knowledge of TPO.Travel, visitors can relax and immerse themselves in the magic of Murano glass, the rainbow streets of Burano, and the quiet majesty of Torcello.
The Journey Begins: Departing from St. Mark’s Square
The adventure sets sail from St. Mark’s Square, the beating heart of Venice. Boarding a comfortable motorboat, you’ll glide away from the bustling piazza and into the serene waters of the Venetian lagoon. This scenic departure offers breathtaking views of Venice’s skyline, including the Campanile, the domes of Basilica di San Marco, and the graceful arches of the Doge’s Palace. Within moments, the noise of the city fades into the lapping of waves, setting the tone for a peaceful day of discovery.
First Stop: Murano – The Island of Glass
The first destination on this island-hopping tour is Murano, world-renowned for its centuries-old tradition of glassmaking. When the Venetian Republic ruled the seas in the 13th century, it feared that fires from glass furnaces would devastate the main island’s wooden structures. Thus, all glassmakers were ordered to relocate to Murano, turning the island into a powerhouse of innovation and prestige.
On arrival, visitors are welcomed into a local glass factory for a live demonstration of glassblowing and lampworking. Watching a skilled artisan shape molten glass into a delicate sculpture or shimmering vase is mesmerizing—a true testament to the island’s enduring craftsmanship.
Murano glass is more than just an art form; it’s a legacy. From ornate chandeliers to intricate jewelry, each piece reflects the island’s dedication to beauty and technique. Visitors have the chance to browse the factory’s showroom, where authentic Murano glass pieces are available for purchase—a perfect memento of your time in Venice.
With TPO.Travel’s expertly timed itinerary, there’s also time to wander Murano’s tranquil canals, pop into museums like the Museo del Vetro (Glass Museum), or simply sip an espresso as gondolas drift past.
Second Stop: Burano – A Rainbow of Charm
Next, the tour continues to Burano, perhaps the most visually enchanting of the lagoon islands. Famed for its vibrantly colored houses, Burano is a photographer’s dream. Legend has it that fishermen painted their homes in bright hues so they could spot them from afar on foggy days. Today, the result is a kaleidoscope of beauty unlike anywhere else in Europe.
But Burano isn’t just a pretty face. It is also the center of lace-making in Italy, a tradition dating back to the 16th century. At one time, Burano lace was so prized that it adorned the clothing of European royalty. Today, visitors can still watch local women delicately crafting lace by hand, a rare and delicate art form passed down through generations.
TPO.Travel’s guide will share the fascinating history of Burano, including tales of its visit by Leonardo da Vinci, who purchased lace for the altar of Milan Cathedral. Visitors can stop by the Lace Museum or browse charming boutiques filled with lace-trimmed handkerchiefs, tablecloths, and dresses.
Burano’s relaxed atmosphere invites travelers to slow down—whether by strolling along the canals, tasting fresh seafood at a local trattoria, or enjoying the island’s famous bussolai (butter cookies).
Optional Third Stop: Torcello – The Silent Witness of History
For those opting for the extended 6-hour tour, the final destination is Torcello, the oldest of Venice’s inhabited islands and once the most populous. Today, it is sparsely populated but incredibly rich in historical significance. Torcello was a thriving settlement long before Venice itself rose to prominence and once boasted tens of thousands of residents.
Arriving in Torcello feels like stepping back in time. Quiet, green, and filled with archaeological wonders, the island offers a peaceful retreat from the tourist crowds. The highlight is the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, founded in 639 AD, which still preserves stunning Byzantine mosaics, including a vivid depiction of the Last Judgment.
Torcello is also home to the Church of Santa Fosca, a rare example of Venetian-Byzantine architecture, and the famous Attila’s Throne, a mysterious stone chair believed by legend to belong to the Hun king (though in reality, it likely served as a magistrate’s seat).
TPO.Travel ensures that travelers get enough time to explore this island’s quiet paths, artistic corners, and peaceful lagoon views before returning to Venice.
Seamless Integration with TPO.Travel Services
What makes this tour truly exceptional is how it fits into TPO.Travel’s broader range of services. Known for delivering premium travel solutions across Europe, TPO.Travel offers:
- Private Transfers to and from hotels, ports, and airports
- Multilingual Guides for culturally immersive experiences
- Sightseeing Tours throughout Venice, Rome, Paris, Vienna, and beyond
- Worldwide Hotel Bookings, making it easy to plan your entire trip
- Customized Itineraries for solo travelers, families, groups, and corporate events
With their dedicated travel specialists, TPO.Travel ensures that every step of your journey—from hotel pickup to final drop-off—is handled with professionalism and care.
The Tour to the Islands of Burano, Murano, and optional Torcello isn’t just a side trip—it’s a core Venetian experience, one that brings travelers closer to the region’s artisan soul, architectural diversity, and timeless folklore.
With TPO.Travel’s seamless logistics, expert guidance, and local insight, guests don’t just travel—they connect deeply with place, culture, and story. Whether you’re exploring delicate glass in Murano, colorful alleyways in Burano, or ancient mosaics in Torcello, every moment is curated for maximum delight and cultural discovery.
Book your island adventure with TPO.Travel and let Venice’s hidden treasures unveil themselves—one handcrafted masterpiece and colorful canal at a time.