These islands off the coast of Venice are worthwhile stops if you have a little extra time, the homes of glass and lace.

EXPERIENCE

While Venice feels like an excursion in and of itself from many of more prominent towns of Italy, the islands of Burano and Murano can feel even more remote. I would not recommend adding these stops to you itinerary unless you truly feel you have extra time and have already seen everything you have prioritized in Venice. They require some effort to ferry to, both in terms of time and funds, so if these are not things you have an abundance of, I’d say enjoy your time in a more leisurely way enjoying all Venice has to offer. 

You leave for these islands from near the Rialto Bridge on a Vaparetto water taxi. Murano is home to many glass and crystal craftsman. Here you can walk the shops and artists studios and learn more about the process and rich tradition of glass blowing in Venice. Burano is home to lace makers in the same regard. It is also a fishing village, so watching the boats and locals go in and out is quite charming. Both towns are incredibly picturesque, and more calm and quaint than Venice. Note these shops are very geared towards shopping, so expect to buy a few things. These places are also nice places to have a quiet long lunch and just enjoy the brightly colored houses and spend a day on the canals and water.