The Afternoon Lagoon Tour takes visitors on an immersive journey through the enchanting Venetian islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello. Featuring a live glass-blowing demonstration, vibrant colored homes, and historic landmarks, this tour offers a unique glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Venetian Lagoon. With a knowledgeable multilingual guide and ample time for independent exploration, participants can discover the captivating sights and stories that make these islands so alluring. By the end of the day, you’ll have a newfound appreciation for the hidden gems that lie just beyond the bustling crowds of Venice.
Good To Know
- The tour offers an immersive exploration of the Venetian Lagoon, visiting the islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello.
- Highlights include a glass-blowing demonstration in Murano, exploring the colorful architecture in Burano, and discovering the historic landmarks of Torcello.
- Priced at $33.15 with a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.
- Suitable for wheelchair users and strollers, with service animals permitted and confirmation of meeting points recommended.
- Mixed reviews on organization and communication, with some complaints about unclear meeting points and late boats, but praise for knowledgeable guides.
Tour Overview

The afternoon boat tour offers an immersive exploration of the Venetian Lagoon’s captivating islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello, drawing praise from 140 reviewers with an overall rating of 3.5 stars.
Highlights include a glass-blowing demonstration in Murano, sightseeing in the colorful town of Burano, and a visit to historic Torcello.
A multilingual guide provides commentary, allowing for independent exploration time.
The tour conveniently returns to St. Mark’s Square, allowing participants to enjoy dinner in the evening.
With a range of inclusions and efficient transportation, this lagoon tour provides a comprehensive introduction to some of Venice’s most renowned island destinations.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Venice.
Itinerary Highlights
On the tour, visitors can regularly watch master glass-blowers at work in Murano, fascinated by their skilled techniques. Participants then admire the leaning tower and vibrant homes of Burano, a picturesque fishing village. Finally, the tour takes travelers to Torcello, the oldest settlement in the Venetian Lagoon, allowing them to explore its historic landmarks.
The tour includes these highlights:
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Witnessing live glass-blowing demonstrations in Murano, where artisans create stunning works of art.
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Strolling through the colorful streets of Burano, known for its lace-making and distinct architecture.
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Discovering the ancient origins of the Venetian Lagoon on a visit to the island of Torcello.
Pricing and Booking

According to the information provided, prices for the Lagoon Tour start from $33.15, with a lowest price guarantee offered. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience, and travelers can receive confirmation at the time of booking, accepting either paper or electronic vouchers. The tour accommodates a maximum of 40 participants.
| Pricing Information | |
|---|---|
| Starting Price | $33.15 |
| Price Guarantee | Lowest Price |
| Cancellation | Free up to 24 hours |
| Confirmation | Provided at booking |
| Max Participants | 40 |
Accessibility and Additional Information

The tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for strollers and service animals. Travelers can check for specific meeting point locations, though infants must sit on laps during the boat ride. On certain dates, a €5 access fee may apply for travelers visiting from outside of Venice.
Here are 3 key accessibility and additional details to note:
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The tour is wheelchair-friendly and can accommodate strollers and service animals.
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Travelers should confirm the meeting point ahead of time, as locations may vary.
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Some dates may incur a €5 access fee for those visiting from outside of Venice.
Customer Feedback and Issues
Travelers have given mixed reviews regarding the tour’s organization and communication, with some complaints about unclear meeting points, late boats, and insufficient assistance from guides. Some visitors reported missing the tour entirely due to confusion over meeting locations.
On the other hand, many customers praised the overall experience and knowledgeable guides, though they noted time constraints on the islands felt rushed.
While the tour has an average 3.5-star rating from 140 reviews, the feedback highlights room for improvement in streamlining operations and providing clearer information to participants.
Tour organizers will need to address these concerns to ensure a more seamless and enjoyable experience for future guests.
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Glass-blowing Demonstration in Murano
One of the highlights of the Lagoon Tour is the opportunity to witness a captivating glass-blowing demonstration in Murano, where visitors can observe the skilled artistry of master craftsmen. These talented artisans use centuries-old techniques to transform molten glass into intricate and beautiful creations right before your eyes.
The demonstration includes:
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Watching the glassblowers expertly shape and mold the glass using specialized tools and techniques.
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Gaining an appreciation for the immense skill and precision required to create the delicate Murano glass products.
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Exploring the showroom to admire the diverse range of glass items, from ornate vases to delicate figurines.
This unique experience provides a fascinating glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Murano’s renowned glass-making industry.
Exploring Burano’s Colorful Homes
Vibrant hues of pink, yellow, blue, and green adorn the quaint houses that line Burano’s charming canals, creating a picturesque and Instagram-worthy setting for visitors to explore. The island’s colorful homes are one of its most distinctive features, with each building painted a different bright shade.
Strolling through the narrow streets, you’ll be struck by the whimsical and cheerful atmosphere, as the vivid palette contrasts beautifully against the calm waterways. Residents take great pride in maintaining the vibrant aesthetic, and it’s not uncommon to see them freshening up the paint on their homes.
Capturing the essence of Burano through photos is a must-do activity on this delightful Venetian island.
Visiting the Historic Torcello
What makes Torcello, the oldest settlement in the Venetian Lagoon, such a captivating destination for visitors? The island’s ancient history and unique architecture draw travelers seeking a glimpse into Venice’s past.
Among the key attractions on Torcello are:
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The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, a stunning Byzantine-style basilica dating back to the 7th century with intricate mosaics and marble interiors.
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The 11th-century Church of Santa Fosca, notable for its distinctive octagonal design and Romanesque architectural elements.
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The Museo di Torcello, housed in a former palace, which displays archaeological finds and exhibits on the island’s long history.
Torcello offers a peaceful escape from the crowds of Venice, allowing visitors to enjoy the lagoon’s rich cultural heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Duration of the Boat Tour?
The duration of the boat tour is not explicitly stated in the provided knowledge. The tour appears to explore several islands, with guided commentary and independent exploration time, but the total length of the experience is not specified.
Are Meals or Refreshments Included in the Tour Price?
The tour price does not include any meals or refreshments. Travelers are responsible for purchasing their own food and drinks during the independent exploration time on the islands or upon returning to St. Mark’s Square.
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary or Visit Additional Islands?
Unfortunately, the tour itinerary can’t be customized or additional islands visited. It’s a pre-set afternoon boat tour with stops at Murano, Burano, and Torcello, and doesn’t offer flexibility to modify the included sites.
How Often Do the Boat Tours Depart Throughout the Day?
The boat tours typically depart several times throughout the day, with specific departure times varying. Customers should check the schedule or with the tour provider to confirm the exact frequency and availability of the tours.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors, Students, or Families?
The tour operator offers discounted prices for seniors, students, and families. Seniors and students can typically receive a 10-15% discount, while family packages may be available at reduced per-person rates. Check the website or contact the operator for specific discount details.
Sum Up
This afternoon lagoon tour offers a captivating exploration of Venice’s enchanting islands.
Visitors can witness a live glass-blowing demonstration in Murano, admire the vibrant, colorful homes of Burano, and discover historic landmarks in Torcello.
With a knowledgeable guide and ample independent time, the tour provides unique insights into the Venetian Lagoon’s rich cultural heritage, ensuring a convenient return to St. Mark’s Square for evening dining.
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- A Luxury Gondola Tour in Venice: Onboard Aperitif and Serenade
- Doges Palace Venice Audio Tour Experience
- The Best of Venice Walking Tour
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