Murano or Burano? Which Venetian Island Should You Visit and Why?

Located in the shimmering waters of the Venetian Lagoon, Murano and Burano are one of the most popular islands to visit once you have explored everything Venice has to offer.

When you have limited time, it may be hard to decide if you want to visit Murano or Burano. While both islands promise a unique escape, they differ significantly in their offerings, atmosphere, and overall experience.

In this guide, after visiting both islands, I want to create a comparison between Murano and Burano, to help you decide which would be best for you. We will talk about accessibility, attractions, personalities, crowd levels, and a little bit of food – because we are in Italy, we can’t not talk about the local cuisine.

Murano Or Burano?

Ease of Access: Getting There

Murano: Often referred to as Venice’s “little sister,” Murano is remarkably easy to reach. The island is just a stone’s throw away from the main city of Venice, making it an ideal destination for even the most time-pressed travellers.

How to get there:

• From Fondamente Nove in Venice, take the vaporetto (water bus) line 4.1 or 4.2.
• The journey takes approximately 10 minutes.
• Vaporettos run frequently, typically every 10-20 minutes.
• The first boat usually departs around 5:00 AM, with services running until midnight.

Pro tip: If you’re staying in the San Marco area, you can also take the direct vaporetto line 7 from San Zaccaria, which runs less frequently but offers a scenic route.

Cost: A single vaporetto ticket costs €7.50 and is valid for 75 minutes. If you’re planning to explore multiple islands or use public transport in Venice, consider purchasing a 1-day or multi-day travel card for better value.

Burano: While not as conveniently located as Murano, Burano is still easily accessible and the journey itself is part of the adventure.

How to get there:

• From Fondamente Nove, take vaporetto line 12.
• The journey takes about 45 minutes.
• Boats run less frequently than to Murano, typically every 30 minutes.
• The first boat usually departs around 6:00 AM, with the last return journey around 10:00 PM (check the schedule as times can vary seasonally).

Pro tip: Consider stopping at Torcello on the way to or from Burano. This sparsely populated island offers a glimpse into the early days of Venice and is home to the stunning Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta.

Cost: The same ticketing system applies as for Murano. Given the longer journey, a day pass might be more economical if you’re planning to visit both islands.

Winner: Murano is undoubtedly the more accessible of the two. Its proximity to Venice and frequent connections make it an easy addition to even the busiest itineraries. However, don’t let Burano’s distance deter you – the longer journey offers beautiful views of the lagoon and a chance to see Venice from a different perspective.

Claim to Fame: What Each Island is Known For

Murano: Murano’s name is synonymous with glassmaking, a craft that has defined the island for over seven centuries.

In 1291, the Venetian Republic ordered all glassmakers to move their foundries to Murano due to the fire risk their furnaces posed to Venice’s largely wooden buildings. This decree inadvertently created a concentration of skilled artisans that would make Murano famous worldwide.

Glassmaking tradition:

• Murano glass is renowned for its vibrant colours, intricate designs, and innovative techniques.
• The island’s glassmakers pioneered or refined many techniques, including crystalline glass, enamelled glass, glass with threads of gold, multi-coloured glass, milk glass, and imitation gemstones made of glass.
• Many of these techniques remain closely guarded secrets, passed down through generations of master glassmakers.

Notable products:

• Murano chandeliers: Elaborate, multi-tiered creations that grace palaces and luxury hotels worldwide.
• Murano beads: Used in jewellery and decorative items, these colourful beads are a popular souvenir.
• Art glass: Sculptural pieces that blur the line between craft and fine art.

Burano: Burano is celebrated for two distinct features: its colourful houses and its tradition of lace-making.

Colourful houses:

• Legend has it that Burano’s fishermen painted their houses in bright colours to easily identify them when returning from sea in foggy conditions.
• Each house colour is strictly regulated. If a resident wants to paint their home, they must request permission from the government, which will respond with the colours permitted for that lot.
• The vibrant streetscapes have made Burano a favourite among photographers and Instagrammers.

Lace-making tradition:

• Burano lace dates back to the 16th century and was once among the most sought-after luxury items in Europe.
• The craft reached its peak in the 18th century when the lace was so valuable it was used as a form of currency among nobles.
• Traditional Burano lace is made entirely by hand using needles, a painstaking process where different artisans specialize in specific stitches.
• While machine-made lace has largely replaced handmade lace in recent times, efforts are being made to preserve the traditional craft.

Winner: This category is too close to call. Both islands have unique and fascinating cultural traditions that have shaped their identities for centuries. Murano’s glassmaking and Burano’s combination of colourful architecture and lace-making are equally compelling draws for visitors.

Sights to See: Main Attractions

The Best Things to Do in Murano:

Glass-blowing demonstrations:

• Many factories offer free demonstrations, including Seguso, Venini, and Effetre International.
• Watch master glassblowers shape molten glass into intricate forms using techniques passed down through generations.
• Some workshops offer hands-on experiences where you can try glassblowing yourself. You can book such an experience by clicking here.

Museo del Vetro (Glass Museum):

• Located in the Palazzo Giustinian, this museum showcases the history of Murano glass from Roman times to the present day.
• Highlights include an extensive collection of Renaissance glass and contemporary pieces.
• The museum also houses a library dedicated to the art and technology of glassmaking.

Chiesa di San Pietro Martire:

• This 15th-century church is home to notable paintings by Giovanni Bellini and Paolo Veronese.
• The church’s simple exterior belies its richly decorated interior.

Basilica di Santa Maria e San Donato:

• Known for its stunning 12th-century Byzantine mosaic floor.
• The basilica also houses the alleged bones of a dragon slain by St. Donatus in the 4th century.

Campo Santo Stefano:

• The main square of Murano, featuring the iconic blue glass clock.
• A great spot to relax and people-watch.

The Best Things to Do in Burano:

Colourful houses:

• Simply wandering the streets and canals of Burano is an attraction in itself.
• Popular photo spots include the leaning bell tower of San Martino Church and the brilliantly painted house of Bepi Suà.
• Via Galuppi, the main street, is lined with shops selling lace and other local crafts.

Museo del Merletto (Lace Museum):

• Located in the historic Palazzo del Podestà of Torcello.
• Exhibits showcase the history and techniques of Burano lace-making.
• Visitors can sometimes observe lace-makers at work.

Casa di Bepi Suà:

• Known as the most colorful house in Burano, covered in bright geometric patterns.
• A popular backdrop for photos.

Tre Ponti (Three Bridges):

• A scenic spot where three canals and bridges intersect, offering picturesque views.

San Martino Church:

• The only church on the island, known for its leaning campanile (bell tower).
• Houses a painting by Giambattista Tiepolo, “The Crucifixion”.

Winner: While both islands offer fascinating attractions, Burano’s overall aesthetic appeal gives it a slight edge. The joy of simply wandering its colourful streets and stumbling upon picture-perfect scenes is hard to beat. However, for those with a specific interest in art and craftsmanship, Murano’s glass-focused attractions might be more appealing.

Crowd Control: Which Island is Less Touristy?

Murano:

• Generally busier than Burano due to its proximity to Venice and easier access.
• Peak hours are typically between 10 AM and 4 PM when day-trippers are most active.
• The island’s larger size helps disperse crowds, making it feel less cramped than Burano can during busy periods.
• Areas around the main vaporetto stops and popular glass factories can get particularly crowded.

Tips for avoiding crowds on Murano:

• Visit early in the morning (before 10 AM) or later in the afternoon (after 4 PM).
• Explore the back streets away from the main tourist areas.
• Consider visiting during the off-season (November to March, excluding Carnival).

Burano:

• Generally less crowded than Murano, especially in the early morning and evening.
• The island’s small size means it can feel busy quickly when tour groups arrive.
• Peak crowding usually occurs between 11 AM and 3 PM when day-trippers from Venice are present.
• The main street, Via Galuppi, tends to be the busiest area.

Tips for avoiding crowds on Burano:

• Plan to arrive early (before 10 AM) or stay late (after 4 PM) to experience the island at its most peaceful.
• Explore the residential areas away from the main canal and shopping street.
• Visit during the off-season for a more tranquil experience.

Winner: Despite its Instagram fame, Burano generally sees fewer visitors than Murano due to its distance from Venice. While it can feel crowded at peak times, overall, it offers a more relaxed atmosphere, especially in the early morning and evening hours.

The Verdict: Which Island is Better to Visit?

Choosing between Murano and Burano ultimately depends on your personal interests, available time, and travel style. Here’s a more detailed breakdown to help you decide:

Choose Murano if:

• You’re short on time: Its proximity to Venice makes it perfect for a half-day trip.
• You’re fascinated by glassmaking: The demonstrations and museums offer unparalleled insight into this ancient craft.
• You want to purchase authentic Venetian glass: The selection and quality are unmatched.
• You prefer a slightly more urban feel: Murano has a busier, more commercial atmosphere.
• You’re interested in art and history: The glass museum and historic churches offer rich cultural experiences.

Choose Burano if:

• You have a full day to spare: The longer journey and relaxed pace of the island are best enjoyed without rushing.
• You’re a photography enthusiast: The colourful houses and picturesque canals offer endless photo opportunities.
• You want a more laid-back, village-like atmosphere: Burano feels more like a traditional fishing village.
• You’re interested in lace or textiles: The lace museum and shops offer insights into this delicate craft.
• You enjoy scenic boat rides: The longer vaporetto journey to Burano is an experience in itself.

Ideal scenario: If time and budget allow, visit both islands to get the full spectrum of experiences the Venetian Lagoon has to offer. Many visitors choose to combine Murano and Burano in a single day trip, perhaps also including the historic island of Torcello.

A sample itinerary might look like this:

• Morning: Start early with a trip to Murano. Watch a glass-blowing demonstration and visit the Glass Museum.
• Afternoon: Head to Burano for lunch. Explore the colorful streets, visit the Lace Museum, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.
• Evening: Return to Venice, perhaps stopping at Torcello on the way if time allows.

Remember, while this itinerary allows you to see both islands, it can be quite rushed. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, consider dedicating a full day to each island if your schedule permits.

Foodie Focus: Culinary Options on Each Island

Murano: Murano offers a range of dining options, from casual trattorias to more upscale restaurants. While the food scene is good, it’s not particularly different from what you’d find in Venice proper.

Notable restaurants:

• Osteria al Duomo: Known for fresh seafood and local specialties. Try their risotto al nero di seppia (risotto with cuttlefish ink).
• Trattoria Busa alla Torre: A family-run spot offering traditional Venetian cuisine. Their fritto misto (mixed fried seafood) is a local favourite.
• Acquastanca: A modern wine bar with an excellent selection of cicchetti (Venetian tapas). Great for a light lunch or aperitivo.

Local specialties:

• Risotto al nero di seppia: Risotto cooked with cuttlefish ink, giving it a dramatic black colour.
• Baccalà mantecato: Creamed salt cod, often served on polenta.
• Sarde in saor: Sweet and sour sardines, a classic Venetian dish.

Burano: Despite its smaller size, Burano is known for its excellent seafood restaurants. The island’s cuisine has a more distinct local character compared to Murano.

Notable restaurants:

• Trattoria al Gatto Nero: A famous spot known for its seafood risotto. Reservations are recommended.
• Ristorante Alla Maddalena: Offers beautiful views along with delicious local cuisine. Their mixed seafood appetizer is a must-try.
• Trattoria da Romano: Another well-known restaurant serving traditional Burano dishes. Their risotto de gò (risotto with goby fish) is legendary.

Local specialties:

• Risotto de gò: A creamy risotto made with goby, a fish found in the Venetian lagoon.
• Bussolai Buranelli: S-shaped butter cookies traditionally made on the island.
• Fritto misto di pesce: A mix of fried local seafood, often including calamari, shrimp, and small fish.

Dining tips for both islands:

• Lunch is typically served from 12:00 PM to 2:30 PM, and dinner from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
• Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner and at popular restaurants.
• Look for restaurants filled with locals for the most authentic experience.
• Be wary of tourist traps near major attractions – they often offer lower quality food at inflated prices.

Winner: While both islands offer good dining options, Burano takes this round. Its focus on local specialties, particularly its famous risotto de gò, and its more intimate, authentic dining scene give it the edge over Murano. The restaurants on Burano tend to have a stronger connection to local fishing traditions, offering a truly unique taste of the lagoon.

Conclusion

Murano and Burano, each with its own distinct charm, offer visitors a chance to experience the Venetian Lagoon beyond the famous canals of the main city. Murano impresses with its centuries-old glassmaking tradition and easier access, making it perfect for a quick trip or those particularly interested in artisanal crafts. Burano, with its explosion of colours, charming atmosphere, and delicious local cuisine, rewards those willing to venture a bit further.

If you’re pressed for time, Murano is your best bet. You’ll get a taste of island life and witness the mesmerizing art of glassblowing. But if you can spare a full day, Burano offers a more immersive experience. Its picturesque scenery, quieter vibe, and delicious local cuisine make it well worth the longer journey.

Ideally, try to visit both islands to fully appreciate the diversity of the Venetian Lagoon. Each offers a distinct perspective on the region’s rich cultural heritage, and together they paint a more complete picture of life beyond the Grand Canal.

Remember, whether you choose the shimmering glass of Murano or the vivid hues of Burano, you’re in for a treat. These islands may be small, but they’re packed with experiences that will linger in your memory long after you’ve returned to the mainland. Whichever you choose, take the time to wander, explore, and soak in the unique atmosphere that makes these islands such special parts of the Venetian experience.

For more articles about Venice, check out my recommendations below:

• The best restaurants in Venice
• What to eat in Venice
• The best gelato in Venice
• Hidden gems in Venice

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