2 Day Venice Itinerary: Venice, Burano & Murano Guide

Welcome to one of the world’s most unique places—Venice. A city without roads, where gondolas glide along centuries-old canals, and every corner holds a slice of history. But there’s more to explore beyond Venice. Just a Vaporetto ride away, you’ll find the enchanting islands of Murano, famed for its glass artistry, and Burano, a rainbow of vibrant colors and delicate lace-making traditions. Whether you’re planning a trip or just curious, this guide will uncover what makes these three destinations unforgettable.

Table of Contents

Venice: The City of Canals

Often called the ‘City of Canals,’ Venice is an architectural wonder made up of over 100 small islands connected by 400 bridges. Its rich maritime history has left the city scattered with grand palazzos, hidden alleys, and endless stories waiting to be discovered.

Must-See Spots in Venice

St. Mark’s Basilica: A masterpiece that blends Eastern and Western architectural styles, St. Mark’s is a symbol of Venice’s role as a bridge between Europe and the Byzantine world. The interior is a stunning mosaic wonderland.
Doge’s Palace: Once the seat of government for the Venetian Republic, this Gothic palace gives a peek into the immense power and wealth Venice wielded during its height.
Rialto Bridge: One of the city’s oldest and most iconic bridges, offering incredible views of the bustling Grand Canal and access to the lively Rialto Market, filled with fresh seafood, fruits, and local specialties.

The Venetian Experience

Canals & Gondolas: Since Venice is entirely car-free, everything happens on the water. Hop on a Vaporetto (water bus) to navigate like a local, or take a classic gondola ride for a more romantic and intimate view of the city’s iconic waterways.
Acqua Alta: The city occasionally experiences seasonal flooding, turning the streets into temporary rivers—a phenomenon known as “Acqua Alta.” Elevated walkways pop up, and visitors get a rare glimpse of Venice as it adapts to the tide.
Savor Local Cuisine: Venice’s culinary scene is full of delights. Try “cicchetti” (small tapas-style snacks) at a local “bacaro” (wine bar), enjoy “bigoli in salsa” (thick pasta with anchovies), or indulge in “fritto misto” (mixed fried seafood). Seek out hidden gems in Cannaregio or Dorsoduro for authentic local dining.
Photography Tips: Early mornings provide the best light and fewer crowds, making iconic spots like St. Mark’s Square, the Rialto Bridge, and hidden canals perfect for capturing that quintessential Venice shot.

Timing Tips: Visiting in the early morning offers a serene experience before the crowds arrive, allowing you to savor spots like St. Mark’s Square nearly all to yourself.

Murano: The Island of Glass

Just a short Vaporetto ride north of Venice, Murano is synonymous with glassmaking. Since the 13th century, artisans have honed their craft here, creating stunning works that range from intricate vases to massive chandeliers. Murano’s history of glassblowing dates back to when Venice moved its glassmakers to the island to prevent fires from spreading on the main city, creating a legacy that continues today.

What to Do in Murano

Glassblowing Demonstrations: Watch the mesmerizing process of molten glass being shaped into delicate creations. Studios often offer free demonstrations, and the Murano Glass Museum provides fascinating insight into the art form’s evolution.
Shop for Authentic Murano Glass: Find unique souvenirs and art pieces throughout the island’s shops. Look for the “Vetro Artistico Murano” certification to ensure authenticity, as true Murano glass is highly prized. Whether it’s jewelry, decor, or a stunning chandelier, there’s something for every taste.
A Relaxed Island Atmosphere: Compared to Venice, Murano has a quieter vibe. Wander along peaceful canals, relax at a small café, and take in the more laid-back pace of island life. It’s a great place to unwind after the busy streets of Venice.

Burano: A Colorful Escape

Further afield, Burano feels like a different world, with houses painted in bright, cheerful hues that reflect in the surrounding canals. Originally painted by fishermen for easy identification in the fog, these colors now make Burano one of Italy’s most photogenic spots.

What to Do in Burano

Explore the Vibrant Streets: Wandering Burano feels like stepping into a rainbow. Every house has a different color, making it a paradise for photographers and anyone looking for a visual treat.
Discover Lace-Making Traditions: Burano has been famous for its lace since the 16th century. Visit the Lace Museum to learn about the intricate craft and watch local artisans as they continue to practice the age-old tradition. It’s important to support authentic artisans by buying genuine Burano lace, as the industry faces challenges from machine-made lace sold elsewhere.
Seafood & Cafés: Burano is known for its seafood, so enjoy a fresh meal at one of the many waterfront trattorias. Pair it with a local wine and watch the world go by as you relax into the island’s easygoing rhythm.

2 Day Venice Itinerary

Day 1: Venice

Morning

St. Mark’s Basilica & Square
Start early at St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco) to enjoy the architecture without crowds. Visit St. Mark’s Basilica when it opens to admire its beautiful mosaics and architecture.
Doge’s Palace
Afterward, head to the Doge’s Palace, which is next to the basilica. Explore the stunning halls, artworks, and learn about Venice’s political history. Don’t miss walking across the Bridge of Sighs.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Venetian lunch in a quieter area like Cannaregio or Dorsoduro. Try dishes like “bigoli in salsa” or seafood risotto.

Afternoon

Rialto Bridge & Market
Head to the Rialto Bridge for one of the best views of the Grand Canal. After taking in the sights, cross the bridge to reach the Rialto Market, where you can see fresh produce and seafood or grab a snack.
Canals & Gondola Ride
Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring Venice’s smaller canals and hidden alleyways on foot. For a classic Venetian experience, take a gondola ride to see the city from the water.

Evening

Sunset Vaporetto Ride on the Grand Canal
Hop on a Vaporetto along the Grand Canal for a scenic view as the sun sets, turning Venice golden. Choose a restaurant along the canal for dinner or enjoy cicchetti at a local bacaro.

Day 2: Murano & Burano – Island Escapes

Morning – Murano

Vaporetto to Murano
Take an early Vaporetto ride from Venice to Murano (Line 4.1 or 4.2). The journey takes around 15 minutes, offering great views along the way.
Glassblowing Demonstration & Museum
Start your morning by visiting a glassblowing studio to watch the artisans at work. Many studios offer free demonstrations. If you’re interested in the history, the Murano Glass Museum is a fascinating stop.
Wander & Shop
Explore the island’s canals and check out shops selling authentic Murano glass. Whether you’re looking for small souvenirs or intricate glass art, this is the place to find them.

Late Morning & Lunch – Burano

Vaporetto to Burano
Catch Line 12 from Murano to Burano (40-45 minutes). Arrive in time for a relaxed stroll through the vibrant, colorful streets.
Seafood Lunch at a Trattoria
Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch at a local trattoria by the water. Pair your meal with a local wine as you soak in the island’s laid-back vibe.

Afternoon – Burano Exploration

Discover Lace-Making Traditions
Visit the Burano Lace Museum to learn about the island’s centuries-old lace-making craft. Wander through small lace shops and watch local artisans continue the delicate art form.
Photography & Canal Walks
Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring the island’s picturesque streets and canals. Burano’s colorful houses make it a photographer’s dream, so have your camera ready.

Evening – Return to Venice

Sunset Journey Back
Head back to Venice on the Vaporetto (Line 12). If time permits, enjoy one last evening stroll through the city or relax with a drink overlooking the Grand Canal.

Practical Tips for Both Days

Start Early to beat the crowds and have iconic spots to yourself.
Wear Comfortable Shoes as both Venice and the islands involve a lot of walking.
Check Vaporetto Timetables for smooth travel between islands.

This 2-day itinerary offers a balanced mix of the iconic sights of Venice and the unique experiences of Murano and Burano. Enjoy your time exploring these unforgettable destinations!

How to Get There

Travel between Venice, Murano, and Burano is simple via the Vaporetto water bus. Take Line 4.1 or 4.2 from Fondamente Nove to reach Murano in about 10-15 minutes. From Murano, catch Line 12 to Burano, which takes around 40-45 minutes. For an easy day trip, you can hop between Murano and Burano on the same line.

Practical Tips for Visiting

Best Time to Visit: Venice sees peak crowds in summer, so visiting in the early morning or late afternoon is ideal. Murano and Burano tend to be quieter on weekdays.
Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be walking a lot, especially in Venice, where the best sights are reached by foot, so pack sturdy and comfortable shoes.
Dining Tips: Stray from tourist-heavy areas like St. Mark’s Square for more authentic and affordable meals. Head to quieter neighborhoods like Cannaregio or Dorsoduro for local delicacies and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Photography Tips: For the best photos, start early in the morning when the lighting is soft and the streets are empty. Burano’s colorful reflections are particularly stunning at sunrise or sunset.
Support Local Artisans: When shopping, look for certified Murano glass and locally-made Burano lace to ensure you’re supporting authentic craftsmanship.

Conclusion

Whether it’s the winding canals of Venice, the artistry of Murano’s glassmaking, or the colorful serenity of Burano’s streets, each destination offers something uniquely memorable. From historical landmarks to centuries-old crafts, these islands provide a glimpse into Italy’s rich culture and history. So, if you’re planning a trip to Italy, make sure to add these gems to your itinerary.