Grand Canal Venice
Discover Venice’s enchanting islands - Murano, Burano, Torcello, and Mazzorbo on a private water taxi day trip including artisanal glassmaking and wine tasting.
Known as the Floating City, Venice was built upon a lagoon and is composed of over 100 islands, many of which are only accessible by boat. With settlements dating back to the 5th century, there is so much history and culture to be found in Venetian waters that it is well worth venturing out of the historic centre to immerse yourself in the artisanal, historic, and scenic treasures that await just beyond Venice’s canals. On our fascinating full-day tour by private water taxi, your passionate local guide will take you on a voyage of discovery to 4 of the most important islands in the lagoon - Murano, Burano, Torcello and Mazzorbo - where you will see, hear and taste essential elements of Venetian culture.
On this private full-day boat tour, you will:
Ideal for those seeking a deeper connection with Venice’s culture and island heritage, this full-day tour is a harmonious blend of art, history, and natural beauty. Whether you’re fascinated by glassmaking, charmed by Burano’s vibrant colours, or eager to taste Mazzorbo’s wines, this immersive experience brings Venice’s lagoon to life with every island stop.
Your island-hopping excursion will begin at your hotel in Central Venice. Your expert Venetian guide will pick you up and accompany you from start to finish, ensuring a smooth and relaxing journey through the lagoon. You will soon step aboard your vessel for the day, a private water taxi, soaking in the unforgettable views of Venice’s skyline from the water. From your privileged vantage point, you will glide past historic palaces, charming canals, and picturesque islands, each with its own story to tell.
The first stop on your grand tour of the islands will be Murano, famed worldwide for its glassblowing heritage dating back to the Middle Ages. You will explore the quaint streets dotted with beautiful glass creations and have the opportunity to visit one of the oldest glassblowing workshops, where a skilled artisan will demonstrate the captivating process behind each delicate piece. As you watch the glass come to life, you’ll gain a new appreciation for the intricate art of Murano glass. You will then proceed to sail to the picturesque island of Burano, known for its vibrant brightly coloured houses and strong lacemaking heritage. You can stroll along the island’s lively canals and admire the buildings painted in vivid colours as your guide explains the island’s rich history and pay a visit to a local artisan for a demonstration of Burano’s traditional lacemaking techniques, which have been passed down through generations.
Your journey will continue to Torcello, one of the lagoon’s earliest settlements, where you’ll step into a world of ancient history. Your guide will explain how the island was first occupied as far back as the 5th century and show you around the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, with its stunning 7th-century Byzantine mosaics. You can also take the time to enjoy the island’s tranquillity, offering a serene escape from Venice’s bustling streets. After a pause for a local lunch (not included), the final island on your itinerary will be marvellous Mazzorbo, known for its vineyards and longstanding winemaking tradition. You’ll tour a Venetian vineyard and learn about the unique characteristics of lagoon-grown grapes before enjoying a wine tasting where you will sample 4 local wines. Taking in the island’s scenic surroundings as you savour the distinct flavours of Mazzorbo’s wines makes for a perfect end to your day of discovery.
As your tour comes to an end, you will hop aboard the private water taxi once more to return to central Venice, enjoying gorgeous views of the city at dusk along the way. You can come ashore back at your hotel or opt to continue your evening at the iconic St. Mark’s Square, invigorated by your delectable day around the lagoon.
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Visit the must-see sites of Venice in a full-day private tour from St. Mark's Basilica & the Doge's Palace, to the Rialto Bridge & the neighbourhoods of San Polo, Dorsoduro, San Marco & Castello.
Cross the Venetian Lagoon in a private boat to Murano and enjoy a glassblowing demonstration in the oldest workshop in Venice and an exclusive tour of its glass exhibits, usually closed to the public.
Enjoy a private tour of The Accademia Gallery of Venice, the world-famous museum of Renaissance masterpieces, followed by a visit to the beautiful Frari Church and a stroll in the San Polo district.
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Learn the traditional skills of navigating the iconic canals of Venice by gondola in this private 1.5 hr lesson, and become a gondolier in this fun, family-friendly experience.
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