Travel Journal

Murano, just a 10-minute boat ride from Venice, is a tranquil island where centuries of artistic tradition and a slower pace of life welcome travelers seeking beauty, culture, and craftsmanship. While Venice is known for its grand canals and historic piazzas, Murano offers its own intimate and unique experience, rooted deeply in the art of glassmaking.

The Tradition of Murano Glass

Murano’s global reputation as a glassmaking powerhouse began in 1291, when the Venetian Republic ordered all glassmakers to move their furnaces to the island. This decision was driven partly by the fire hazard glassblowing posed to the wooden structures of Venice and partly by a desire to control the secrets of the craft. Today, the glassmaking tradition remains alive and vibrant. Many studios welcome visitors, offering live demonstrations that show the immense skill and delicacy involved in this ancient craft. Watching a red-hot blob of glass turn into a delicate horse or flower in mere minutes is nothing short of mesmerizing.

Things to See in Murano Island

Murano’s beauty goes beyond the furnace. The island is dotted with historic sites and quiet corners that reflect its centuries-old connection to art, faith, and legend. Here are some of the most fascinating places to see.

Glass Museum

The main attraction in Murano is the Museo del Vetro, or Glass Museum, located in the 17th-century Palazzo Giustiniani. This museum showcases the evolution of glassmaking, from ancient Roman times to the contemporary era. Intricate pieces from every period are displayed in thoughtfully arranged galleries, offering a deeper appreciation for the creativity and experimentation that defines Murano glass. From gilded goblets to modern sculptures, the collection illustrates both the aesthetic beauty and technical complexity of the craft.

Basilica dei Santi Maria e Donato

Equally captivating is the Basilica dei Santi Maria e Donato , one of Murano’s most important landmarks. Dating back to the 7th century, this church is a masterpiece of Venetian-Byzantine architecture. Its shimmering mosaic floor, laid in the 12th century, glows in the soft light that filters through the tall windows. Behind the altar, curious visitors will find a set of massive bones said to belong to a slain dragon, adding a touch of legend to the church’s spiritual serenity.

Church of San Pietro Martire

Another space for quiet reflection is the Church of San Pietro Martire . While it lacks the grandeur of larger Venetian churches, it holds impressive artworks by artists like Giovanni Bellini and Paolo Veronese. The peaceful interior, adorned with soft light and dark wood, invites visitors to pause and appreciate the intertwining of art and faith that has defined Murano for centuries.

Things to Do in Murano Island

Murano feels like a miniature Venice, with its network of canals, arched bridges, and pastel-colored buildings. Yet unlike Venice, Murano is rarely overwhelmed by crowds, allowing visitors to wander its narrow streets at a more relaxed pace. The main canal, lined with shops and cafes, is a pleasant place to explore, with charming storefronts displaying a kaleidoscope of colorful glassware in their windows.

As you stroll, you may come across the iconic Comet Glass Star sculpture in Campo Santo Stefano. This striking blue installation captures the modern spirit of Murano’s glass tradition while reflecting the light in dazzling ways. The sculpture, along with other public art installations scattered across the island, speaks to the community’s dedication to keeping its creative heritage alive and evolving.

Reaching Murano from Fiumicino Airport

Murano is easily accessible from Venice by boat, with frequent departures from the mainland. Travelers arriving at Rome Fiumicino Airport, the hub for international and domestic travel, can easily reach Venice by train, thanks to the many transportation options and train station located near the arrivals and departure terminals, offering regular connections between Rome and the rest of Italy.

Shopping at Fiumicino Airport 

While passing through Fiumicino Airport, don’t miss the opportunity to buy artisanal Italian products, perfect souvenirs and gifts to bring back home. With the Shop&Fly service, you can shop online from the duty-free section of the airport with an exclusive 10% discount, not combinable with other offers, and collect your items upon departure.

Murano may be a small island in size, but its impact on the worlds of art, craftsmanship, and culture is immeasurable. A visit to Murano is not just a detour from Venice, it’s a journey into one of Italy’s most enduring artistic traditions.

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