Fom Treporti: Murano, Burano, and Venice Motorboat Trip

Introduction
Taking a day trip from Treporti to explore Venice’s famous lagoon islands offers a wonderful blend of scenery, culture, and authentic Venetian charm. Whether you’re interested in watching glassmakers craft delicate Murano glass, wandering through the brightly painted houses of Burano, or soaking in the historic splendor of Piazza San Marco, this tour promises a compact yet immersive experience.
One feature we especially appreciated is the seamless combination of transportation and guided activities, ensuring you get both the scenic views and engaging local culture. Plus, at only $30 per person, the value feels significant—though some might find the lack of included food or drinks a small drawback.
This trip suits travelers wanting a well-organized, budget-friendly way to see key Venetian islands without the hassle of self-planning. It’s perfect for those short on time but eager to experience the lagoon’s highlights with the comfort of a guided motorboat.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $30, this tour provides great value for a full day of island hopping and sightseeing.
• Authentic Experiences: Watch a Murano glass-making demo and stroll through vibrant, colorful villages.
• Efficient Transportation: A comfortable, well-equipped motorboat whisks you between islands, offering scenic lagoon views.
• Flexible Visits: Free walk on Burano and optional visit to a Murano furnace give you some control over your day.
• Timing and Duration: A 7.5-hour tour that fits easily into a day, with return around 5 pm.
• Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible and conducted in both Italian and English, accommodating a range of travelers.

The Itinerary in Detail: What You Can Expect

Starting Point and Transportation

Your journey begins at Dal Banco delle Prenotazioni, where you’ll meet the friendly team from TURISTICA PENZO. The company has been operating in the Venetian Lagoon since 1978, and their fleet is known for efficiency and innovation, ensuring a safe and comfortable ride across the water.
The motorboat itself is well-equipped, offering a stable and smooth ride that allows you to relax and enjoy the lagoon scenery. The ride to Murano and Burano takes about an hour each way, giving you plenty of opportunities to admire the lagoon’s shimmering waters and distant cityscapes.

Murano Island: Glass-Making and Craftsmanship

Once on Murano, you’ll have about an hour to explore. The highlight is undoubtedly the glass-making demonstration, often held at a local furnace. As one reviewer pointed out, “We loved the way the glassmaker expertly crafted delicate pieces right before our eyes—it was fascinating to see how centuries-old techniques are still alive.”
If you’re interested in a more in-depth experience, many tours offer the chance to visit a furnace—though this isn’t included in this specific tour, the demo itself is a captivating snapshot into Murano’s renowned glass industry.
Murano’s charm also lies in its quiet streets and small shops filled with glass art, making it perfect for a quick stroll and some souvenir shopping.

Burano Island: Picturesque Colors and Free Walks

Next is Burano, where you’ll spend about an hour wandering through streets lined with vibrantly painted houses—some even call it “the most colorful island in the world.” The free walk allows you to soak in the lively atmosphere, snap photos of the pastel facades, and perhaps stop for a quick coffee or gelato.
One reviewer mentioned, “Burano is like a living postcard—so cheerful and inviting. I loved wandering without a strict schedule, soaking in the colors.” The island’s calm, laid-back vibe makes it a great spot for leisurely exploration, especially if you’re a fan of charming, Instagram-worthy scenery.

Venice: St. Mark’s Square and City Strolls

The final stop is Venice itself, with about a couple of hours dedicated to exploring St. Mark’s Square and its surrounds. You can stroll through the historic piazza, admire the basilica, and watch local life unfold.
While the tour doesn’t include a guided visit inside St. Mark’s Basilica, the square itself offers enough to keep you captivated: street performers, elegant cafes, and historic buildings. One traveler noted, “Walking around Venice after the boat ride felt like stepping into a living museum. The scenery is breathtaking, and the sense of history is palpable.”
Returning to the starting point around 5 pm, this part of the itinerary offers a taste of Venice’s enchanting ambiance without the need for extra planning.

The Practical Aspects and Value

For a budget of $30, this tour packs quite a punch. The cost covers transportation, the scenic lagoon cruise, and guided visits to Murano and Burano, making it an economical choice compared to private tours or self-organized trips.
Keep in mind, food and drinks are not included, so packing a snack or water is advisable, especially if you plan to explore on your own on Burano or Venice.
The tour runs in both Italian and English, ensuring broad accessibility, and is wheelchair accessible, making it a considerate option for travelers with mobility needs.

Timing and Group Size

The 7.5-hour schedule is well-paced, offering enough time at each stop without feeling rushed. The group size isn’t specified but, given the organized nature and efficiency of TURISTICA PENZO, you can expect a manageable number of travelers. This makes for a more personal experience, especially during the free walks and demos.

Additional Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes since you’ll be walking through cobbled streets and residential areas.
• Bring a hat or sunscreen for sunny days, especially on open boat decks.
• Check the availability and starting times in advance, as they can vary slightly depending on the day.

Why Choose This Tour?

This trip offers a balanced combination of scenic travel, cultural insight, and free time to explore at your own pace. It’s ideal for travelers who want to maximize their lagoon experience without paying for luxury extras. The inclusion of iconic islands like Murano and Burano, along with the chance to see a glassmaking demo, makes it both educational and visually stunning.
The use of a comfortable motorboat means you’ll enjoy smooth rides with great views, making the journey itself part of the adventure. Plus, at just over seven hours, it’s perfect for fitting into a busy Venice itinerary.

For travelers eager to experience Venice’s essence—bright colors, historic craftsmanship, and beautiful waterways—without breaking the bank, this is a solid choice. It’s especially suitable if you prefer a more relaxed, flexible visit rather than a heavily structured tour.

Final Thoughts

This Murano, Burano, and Venice motorboat trip provides an engaging, affordable way to see some of the most distinctive sights in the Venetian Lagoon. The well-organized itinerary hits the highlights, from the vibrant houses of Burano to the glass artisans of Murano, capped by a stroll through Venice’s storied piazza.
While you won’t get a guided tour inside major landmarks, the experience offers enough freedom and charm to make your day memorable. The inclusion of a glass-making demo, scenic boat rides, and free walks makes it a well-rounded introduction to Venice’s lesser-known treasures.

The overall value is high—especially for those conscious of budget but eager to enjoy authentic sights and local craftsmanship. If you prefer a relaxed pace, some optional exploration, and scenic boat rides rather than strict schedules, this tour fits perfectly.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes transportation on a well-equipped motorboat and a 7.5-hour lagoon cruise that covers Murano, Burano, and Venice.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so it’s wise to bring a snack or water for the day.

How long do we spend on each island?
You will have approximately 1 hour on Murano, which includes a glass-making demo, and 1 hour on Burano for a free walk. The remaining time is spent traveling and exploring Venice.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs.

What languages are the guides available in?
Guiding is available in Italian and English, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended due to cobbled streets and walking. Bring sun protection if the weather is sunny.

When does the tour start and end?
Start times vary daily, so check availability. The tour concludes around 5 pm back at the starting point.

In summary, this motorboat tour from Treporti offers a practical, enjoyable way to experience the vibrant islands of Murano and Burano, topped with the allure of Venice itself. It balances scenic beauty, cultural highlights, and affordability—making it a great choice for curious travelers seeking a taste of the lagoon’s magic without fuss or expense.