Murano Glass in Venice Italy

Glass from Murano is very special, very expensive but exquisitely beautiful. Once you see the real thing, you will have no trouble recognizing the cheap imitations.

It is so easy to get ripped off in the shops around St. Mark's Square and elsewhere in Venice; that is why this Murano glass buying guide is essential reading for those who would like to buy the genuine article at a decent price.

First, let me share a little about the island of Murano, a tiny little island just offshore from Venice itself. It is on the island of Murano that all authentic Murano glass is made, so a visit to this island is a must-do for all glass lovers. Let's go visit...

Exploring Murano

Murano may be just a short vaporetto ride from Venice, but the moment you arrive, life slows to a gentler rhythm. The canals are quieter, the air smells faintly of the lagoon (which, despite popular myths, doesn't stink), and colorful houses line the water like a row of happy confetti.

Of course, Murano is famous for its glass, and seeing a master glassblower at work is truly mesmerizing. In seconds, a glowing lump of molten glass becomes a delicate vase or a shimmering horse. You can visit the old furnaces, browse tiny shops filled with handmade treasures, and even find a few artisans who’ll personalize a piece just for you.

Beyond the glass, Murano has its own soul. Wander to the Basilica di Santa Maria e San Donato, where golden mosaics sparkle softly in the afternoon light, or enjoy a quiet lunch by the water with the sound of boats passing by. It’s a wonderful escape; still Venetian, but calmer, more real. 

Getting to Murano

You can visit on your own, either by water taxi—which is horrendously expensive—or by vaporetto (water bus). The water bus is the best option, but make sure you leave early to beat the crowds. Here are the details:

• From Venice (San Zaccaria, San Marco, or Fondamente Nove): Line 4.1 or 4.2: These circle Venice and stop at Murano (multiple stops on the island). Line 12: Direct from Fondamente Nove to Murano. This is the fastest option (about 10 minutes).
• Fare: €9.50 one way (or free if you have a Venezia Unica / ACTV travel card).
• Travel time: 10–25 minutes depending on departure point.

Tip: Sit outside if you can; you’ll glide past the lagoon and see Venice from a whole new angle.

 Alternatively, take a tour....

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The History of Murano Glass in Venice

Murano is a suburb of Venice dating back to the Middle Ages. The glassmaking industry attracted the finest glass craftsmen from the East. Of particular note were the Syrian craftsmen.

The Murano story begins in 1292 when the glassmaking industry was moved from Venice to Murano for safety reasons—basically the kilns kept starting fires in Venice. Venice in that period was built of wood and fire was not exactly welcome.

Murano then developed into a rich village where many of the Venetian aristocrats built magnificent palaces.

True glass from Murano is made exclusively from silica extracted from the Cogòli del Tesìn basin. It is world-renowned as the purest and most crystal-clear glass to be found anywhere on earth. Exquisitely made murrine are one of the most beautiful examples of the art of the Murano glassmakers.

Murrine are still made by hand, in the same way they were made in centuries past. The sheer quality and work involved completely justify the high price one has to pay for what is, in all respects, a work of art.

Where to Buy Murano Glass in Venice or Online

In Venice, there are two places I can highly recommend. These are as follows:

Tommasi Glass

Tommasi has been making glass for generations. Quality is superb and prices are reasonable (as Murano prices go). The only product of theirs that I have heard people having issues with is their rings, where the glass falls out from the prongs.

The factory is right in the heart of the Murano district. Contact details are:

Address: Tommasi & Figli, Murano - Museo, Rivalonga Conterie - 30141 Venice, Italy

Phone: 39-041-736051 e-mail: info@tommasi.info

Atelier Glass

For all things Murano, Atelier is well worth visiting. I find their chandeliers and mirrors in particular to be gorgeous. The address is

Address: Atelier Glass snc, Cannaregio 234 Lista di Spagna, Venice, Italy, tel +39-041-716 727

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