Murano

World-famous for its glass blowing, Murano is the second largest island in the Venetian Lagoon, after Venice. With its picturesque canals, artisan boutiques and rich history, Murano offers a perfect blend of art, culture and relaxation.

Learn all about holidays in Murano, Italy, on Ferryhopper, including all the things to do and see on the island. Start planning your perfect getaway and book Murano ferry tickets hassle-free!

A picturesque scene of Murano, Italy, featuring antique italian houses and traditional boats

Holidays in Murano

A small island 1.5 km from Venice, Murano is famous for its glass making and attracts millions of visitors every year. However, it offers so much more for those looking for a unique and relaxing getaway. With its quaint canals, charming bridges and historic atmosphere, Murano is a haven of art and culture.

Whether you're here on a day trip from Venice or a longer stay, Murano offers a tranquil alternative to the bustling city, with its charming artisan shops, lovely cafes and scenic waterfront views. The island’s relaxed pace makes it an ideal retreat for those looking to enjoy history, craftsmanship and a touch of Italian elegance.

How to get to Murano

Getting to Murano, Italy, is possible only by water bus or ferry. Water buses to Murano Faro leave every 20 minutes from Venice's Fondamente Nove station, with a travel time of approximately 10 to 20 minutes. Another common departure point for water buses to Murano is Venice San Marco. For those coming from Marco Polo Airport, Alilaguna Lines ferries provide a convenient 30-minute ride to Murano.

For more information regarding ferries to Murano, check out our relevant section below.

What to do in Murano

Murano is world-renowned for its exceptional glass art and visiting one of the glass factories is an absolute must. Many artisans still use century-old techniques, offering free demonstrations where you can witness the artistry of glassblowing firsthand - a fascinating experience. 

Afterwards, stroll through local shops selling authentic Murano glass items along Rio dei Vetrai, a street lined with galleries offering everything from delicate jewelry and glasses to intricate chandeliers. To make sure you’re purchasing genuine Murano glass, look for the Vetro Artistico Murano certification, displayed on the item or shop entrance to distinguish authentic pieces from imitations.

Don’t miss the Museo del Vetro, where you can learn about the evolution of glassmaking on the island, and the Basilica di Santa Maria e San Donato, a significant architectural site famous for its breathtaking Byzantine mosaics.

For a laid-back afternoon, stroll along the picturesque canals and bridges connecting Murano’s 7 islands, and enjoy coffee or a refreshing drink at a waterfront café. Finally, don’t leave without tasting local specialties such as moeche.

A vibrant display of Murano glass ducks

Sightseeing and activities in Murano

In addition to its famous glassworks, Murano boasts a number of historical and cultural attractions. Some of our favorites sightseeing options in Murano, Italy, include:

• The Murano Glass Museum or Museo del Vetro, to learn about Murano’s glass making history
• The Mazzega Glass Factory, the center of Murano’s glassmaking
• The Basilica dei SS Maria e Donato, Murano’s medieval church built in the 7th century
• Santa Maria degli Angeli, one of the main churches in Murano, situated on the Grand Canal
• Ponte Vivarini or “Long Bridge” and Ponte Longo Lino with spectacular views
• Bruno Fusato Signoretti, one of the best known glassmakers in Murano whose workshop is open to the public
• The Chiesa di San Pietro Martire, built in the 15th century, it is home to historical art pieces
• The Faro di Murano, although not open to the public, Murano's white lighthouse is an iconic structure worth photographing

Nightlife in Murano

Murano’s nightlife is low-key and laid-back compared to the bustling scene in nearby Venice. Evenings on the island are ideal for unwinding at one of its charming wine bars or traditional trattorias. Enjoy a glass of wine with a view of the canals or dine at a restaurant specializing in fresh seafood. The serene atmosphere makes it perfect for a leisurely evening stroll or sharing a nightcap with friends.

Tip: if you're looking for more vibrant nightlife, it’s easy to hop on a vaporetto to Venice, where the bars and clubs stay open late into the night.

A tranquil scene of Murano by night

Food in Murano

Murano’s culinary scene, deeply rooted in its lagoon heritage, is known for fresh seafood, with most menus featuring a variety of fish dishes alongside traditional Venetian specialties. The team of Ferryhopper highly recommends the following:

• anguilla alla muranese or Glassmakers' Eels (cleaned eels, vinegar, bay leaves, and salt)
• sarde in saor (marinated sardines)
• moeche (fried soft-shell crabs served with a light batter)
• baccalà mantecato (a creamy spread made from salted cod)
• risi e bisi (a classic Venetian risotto made with fresh peas)
• bigoli in salsa (thick spaghetti-like pasta in an anchovy and onion sauce)
• bussolai (traditional Venetian butter cookies)

A delicious dish of sarde in saor

Useful information about Murano

The best time to visit Murano, Italy, is during spring (April - May) or fall (September - October), when the weather is mild and pleasant, and there are fewer crowds. Keep in mind that most shops, attractions and glass factories close early in the evening, so plan your visit accordingly.

In regards to accommodation, there are limited options compared to Venice, but staying on the island offers a more authentic and serene experience. Though Murano can be bustling during the day with visitors from Venice, the evenings are quiet and peaceful, making it a lovely spot for a relaxed stay away from the crowds.

Finally, note that while there is a pharmacy on Murano, the nearest major hospital is Ospedale SS. Giovanni e Paolo in Venice, which is about 15 minutes away by water taxi.

The stunning Basilica dei Santi Maria e Donato in Murano, Italy

Transportation in Murano

Murano is a small island, just 1.5 km across, and with no cars, the best way to explore its charming narrow streets and scenic canals is on foot.

To get to the nearby Burano and Torcello, you can take the ferries from the pier in Fondamenta Andrea Navagero. The vaporetto is also quite popular with locals, and the main lines are 4.1 and 4.2.

Alternatively, another option for getting around the Venice Lagoon is the water taxi, but keep in mind that it is usually more expensive.

Ports in Murano

Murano has several small docks for private boats and water taxis, but the main port area is Murano Colonna. It is situated along the main canal at the Southern end of Murano and serves as the main arrival point for most visitors traveling by water bus from Venice. The nearby Murano Faro is also commonly used and convenient for reaching the northern part of the island. The other stations include Murano Navagero, Murano Museo, Murano Da Mula, Murano Venier, and Murano Serenella.

All docks are well-connected by public transportation and provide easy access to the island’s key attractions.

Island hopping from Murano

Murano serves as a great starting point for exploring other nearby islands in the Venetian Lagoon. From Murano, travelers can easily hop on a ferry to visit the charming islands of Burano and Torcello. Check out the Murano - Burano and Murano - Torcello ferry for more info.

Useful info: have a look at our interactive Map of ferries to discover more connections between Venice and the islands in the Venetian Lagoon.

Murano ferry: schedules and tickets

You can easily travel to Murano by ferry from Venice (San Marco). Specifically, you can catch a ferry from Venice (San Marco) to Murano with 2-4 daily sailings. Venice (San Marco) - Murano ferry tickets cost €7.50, with the trip lasting around 30 minutes.

Useful info: the ferry routes between Murano and Venice are operated by Consorzio Vidali Group.

The historic Faro di Murano surrounded by colorful buildings in Murano, Italy

Book ferry tickets online to Murano

Excited to experience the beauty and artistry of Murano? Browse all ferry schedules to this enchanting Venetian island on Ferryhopper, compare routes and prices, and easily book your ferry tickets to Murano in just a few steps!