Murano Glass Factory Experience: A Workshop in Venice

I think my expectations for the experience were clearly too high. The best part was actually the private water taxi to and from Murano. It was a fantastic way to see Venice from the water and made the experience feel special. The glassblowing demonstration was impressive to watch, and the artisans are clearly incredibly talented. However, this was probably my biggest disappointment. Having known a little about glassblowing beforehand (and even taken a class), I was surprised by how little explanation was provided. I learned essentially nothing about the Murano glassmaking technique, and at one point I found myself explaining to another person in our group what was happening. I would have loved even 10–15 minutes of explanation about the process, techniques, history, or what makes Murano glassmaking distinctive. The “workshop” portion was also a stretch to call a workshop. We were essentially given a piece of wood and mosaic tiles to glue onto it, with very little direction or instruction, and were left to our own devices. This would be great for kids. The showroom itself was beautiful and had some incredible pieces, though be prepared: authentic, high-end Murano glass is definitely not for the faint of heart when it comes to price. Ultimately, we ended up leaving a little early and getting a spritz. Not a bad experience, but I’d recommend going in expecting transportation, a glassblowing demonstration, some time in the showroom, and a simple craft activity rather than an educational or hands-on Murano glass workshop.

Very cool factory, nice owners, delivery of huge vases to home country

This was a fun and fascinating way to see the craft of glass blowing. Beautiful art! Included the boat trip through the canals

I thought it was a scam. The exhibition was very short and the visit ended up focusing entirely on selling products at exaggerated prices. Very rude and impolite staff. Furthermore, they insisted so much that we pay in cash that it was uncomfortable. Upon leaving, we verified that other stores in town sold the same products 6 times cheaper. Very disappointed that they allow these practices. I wanted to use my parents' credits to buy in the store (€20), and they told me they had already been used. It is a shame how they swindle and rob people to their faces. I WOULD NOT RETURN, and I will not recommend it.

we never got to go because the tour guide did not show up. do not book this tour with this company. I’m asking for a refund when we called the tour guide from the phone number available. He said we canceled. He made up a lie and said we canceled from the number that we called him from which nobody has been called out of the phone that we called him from today.

I would absolutely recommend this tour! We are a family of 7 with kids ages 8-16. It was great for the adults and kids. The meeting place was easy to find. We enjoyed the private taxi over. We got to watch the glass masters make a glass and horse. The guides were great with my family and showing us things along the way. Then we got to do the workshop and make a piece of jewelry or mosaic. We never felt rushed on the tour. Going through the shop afterwards felt like a beautiful museum of art. We were not pressured to buy anything. We had some time left over to walk around and we grabbed a snack before heading back on a private boat taxi. Great experience! Great activity to do in Venice that helps you appreciate some of the unique qualities here.

Excellent tour showing how glass is blown and made. We took the entire family. The kids (17,14 and 3) especially enjoyed watching the creation of the horse and had fun with the mosaics and bead bracelets. Would definitely do this again.

Absolutely beautiful spot. The craftsman is incredible and was so fun to see in action. The taxi ride over was worth it too!

This was an absolutely amazing experience. Easy meeting point with Giovanni, our tour guide. From the start, he was genuinely kind and knowledgeable about the area. The taxi ride was exhilarating and offered drop off right at the door of the factory. The demonstration was incredible, highlighting such beautiful artistry. We made our own jewelry and toured the show rooms where we were offered a discount on our carefully selected purchases. Emilio was our guide through the show room and he was funny and expert at his position. Plenty of time was available for all activities and then another wonderful ride back to Venice via taxi. This is a must do, if you’re interested in visiting Murano.

The water taxi was convenient and the glass blowing demonstration was amazing. This tour was unlike anything we’ve done before.