Burano, with its rainbow-colored houses and slow-paced charm, is one of the most photogenic spots in the Venetian Lagoon. It’s also a place where you can really connect with local traditions, especially through lace making and authentic island life. Whether you’re interested in a full-day excursion, a focused guided walk, or a quiet paddle in the lagoon, Burano offers tours that fit different interests and schedules. Our favorites include a comprehensive day trip that combines Murano and Torcello, and an intimate, local-guided walk that reveals the island’s secret corners. Each experience offers a different way to see Burano’s colorful streets and learn about its traditions.
If you’re looking for a relaxed day exploring multiple islands, the From Jesolo: Day Trip to Murano, Burano, and Torcello is hard to beat. It combines comfort, expert guiding, and ample exploration time. For a more intimate and authentic experience, the Guided Tour of Burano Island provides a personal look at local life and lace-making, perfect for those wanting a deeper connection with the island. And if you prefer a hands-on adventure, the Private Kayak Tour in the Venetian Lagoon takes you quietly through the lagoons, away from crowds, revealing untouched landscapes.
1. From Jesolo: Day Trip to Murano, Burano, and Torcello
At number one on our list, this 7-hour day trip offers a well-rounded experience of the Venetian Lagoon’s most famous islands. Cross the lagoon from Punta Sabbioni aboard a comfortable, modern boat, with an expert guide sharing insights about each stop. You’ll visit Murano, renowned for its glassmaking, with opportunities to see glass artisans at work and browse the shops. Then, it’s on to Burano, famous for its brightly painted houses and handmade lace. The trip also includes a visit to Torcello, one of the oldest settlements in the lagoon, with its peaceful atmosphere and historical sites.
What makes this tour stand out is the ample time on each island—no rushed visits here. The reviews rave about the smooth organization and knowledgeable guides, with one traveler mentioning, “Great boat, not squashed, and the guide gave interesting info.” The price of around $39.86 per person offers excellent value for all that’s included. Perfect for travelers who want a full-day adventure with a relaxed pace, good food options, and expert commentary. Just note that availability can vary, so booking early is wise.
Bottom line: This trip balances affordability, comfort, and a comprehensive look at the lagoon’s top islands, making it ideal for first-timers and those seeking a stress-free day.
2. Guided Tour of Burano Island
At number two, the Guided Tour of Burano Island is a short, 80-minute intimate walk that dives into the heart of this colorful island. Led by a native guide, you’ll discover how lace is handmade, see the famous houses in their vibrant hues, and hear stories about island life. This tour is designed specifically for those who want a personal connection and a rich, local perspective.
What makes this tour special is the personal insights of guides like Silvia, who share her family’s long history on Burano. Guests have praised her enthusiasm and in-depth knowledge—one reviewer says, “It felt like having a friend show us around their home.” The tour’s small group size allows for a relaxed, conversational experience, and the live lace demonstration is a highlight.
Priced at roughly $63.77, this makes for a more premium, focused experience. It’s perfect if you want to really understand the traditions and stories behind the island’s colors and crafts. It’s great for travelers who enjoy storytelling and culture, but it’s less suitable if you’re looking for a longer exploration or to see other islands.
Bottom line: A highly personalized tour, ideal for those interested in local culture and craftsmanship, offering a behind-the-scenes look at Burano’s famous lace.
3. The Secret Corners of Burano
Ranking third, this 1-hour 20-minute tour offers an inside look at Burano’s lesser-known spots. Led by a local guide born and raised on the island, you’ll walk past colorful fishermen’s homes, visit landmarks like a leaning church bell tower, and watch a live lace-making demonstration. It’s perfect for those who want a quick but authentic glimpse of the island without heavy crowds.
This tour excels in giving you a local’s perspective—the guide shares personal stories, including visits to her grandmother’s house and her childhood memories. The reviews emphasize how personal and informative this walk is, with one saying, “She showed us the back streets where people actually live.” It’s also a good choice if your time is limited but you want to see the real Burano, beyond the tourist spots.
For around $61.91, you get a rich, guided experience that includes tips on the best places to eat and shop afterward. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy short, meaningful walks and want to support local residents in their exploration.
Bottom line: A perfect quick tour for those wanting an authentic, local-oriented experience that reveals Burano’s hidden corners.
4. Venice, Murano, and Burano Excursion from Jesolo
Coming in at number four, this 7-hour guided excursion from Jesolo combines Venice’s highlights with visits to Murano and Burano. You’ll relax on a comfortable motorboat and visit both Murano’s famed glass factories and Burano’s colorful streets. It’s an efficient way to see multiple islands in one day, especially if you’re staying outside Venice.
Guests appreciate the well-organized nature of this trip and the inclusion of glass factory visits and lace exhibitions. For just $39.86, it offers great value but is less personalized than guided walks, focusing more on sights and shopping opportunities. If you’re keen to tick off Venice’s top islands with limited time, this trip is a solid choice.
It’s best suited for travelers who want a full day of sightseeing and don’t mind a busier schedule. Keep in mind, the reviews mention the need to be punctual, but overall, it provides a reliable and enjoyable experience.
Bottom line: A good, budget-friendly option for those wanting an overview of Venice’s lagoon islands with a focus on sightseeing and shopping.
5. Private Kayak Tour in the Venetian Lagoon
The Private Kayak Tour offers a slow-paced, eco-friendly alternative to walking or boat tours. With about 2 hours, you’ll paddle through ghebi and sandbanks, exploring islands untouched by mass tourism. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy being active and want to see the lagoon from a different perspective.
Led by guides who speak English, Italian, and Spanish, you’ll learn about Venetian rowing and visit the home of the rowing association, getting insights into the gondola technique. You’ll glide past deserted islands and observe egrets and herons in their natural habitat, making it a peaceful alternative to busy island visits.
Guests praise the authentic experience and expert guidance—one reviewer notes, “Filippo was very personable, and we felt like we truly experienced the lagoon’s natural beauty.” The price of approximately $46.26 offers good value for a personalized adventure.
This tour appeals to those comfortable with physical activity and interested in nature and local traditions. It’s less suitable for travelers with mobility issues or limited time.
Bottom line: An intimate, environmentally conscious way to explore the lagoon’s serenity away from crowds, perfect for active and curious travelers.
6. Venice City Card with 30+ sights, St. Mark’s Museums & Gondola Ride
Lastly, the Venice City Card provides 7-day access to more than 30 attractions, including Doge’s Palace, Leonardo da Vinci Museum, and St. Mark’s Basilica (with optional skip-the-line). It also includes a gondola ride or Grand Canal tour, making it ideal for those who want to maximize their time while exploring Venice’s core sites.
Priced at around $106.93, this pass offers great value for travelers planning to visit multiple museums and landmarks. The reviews highlight how easy and cost-effective it is to skip lines and explore at your own pace. It suits travelers who prefer a self-guided experience but want the convenience of pre-paid entry.
If you’re looking for a flexible, all-in-one ticket that makes the most of your trip, this card is hard to beat. Be aware that the trip to Burano or Murano is not included but can be added with separate tours.
Bottom line: Ideal for independent travelers who want easy access to Venice’s top sights and a hassle-free way to see the city at their own pace.
$106.93 per person
How to Choose the Best Tour in Burano
Picking the right tour depends on your interests, schedule, and budget. For a full-day experience that covers multiple islands with commentary, the From Jesolo: Day Trip to Murano, Burano, and Torcello is hard to beat. If you prefer a shorter, more personal tour that focuses solely on Burano’s local life and lace, the Guided Tour of Burano Island offers a meaningful connection.
For those seeking a quiet, natural experience away from crowds, the Private Kayak Tour provides a unique perspective with plenty of opportunities for wildlife watching. If you want a comprehensive, flexible sightseeing pass, the Venice City Card is excellent, especially if you plan to visit multiple Venice landmarks.
Finally, consider practical factors like budget, time available, and physical fitness. If your trip is limited, opt for shorter tours like the Secret Corners of Burano or the guided walk. For a fuller experience, the day trip or city card will give you broader access.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred time and avoid disappointment.
Final Thoughts
Burano’s colorful charm is best enjoyed through a variety of tours that suit different tastes. Whether you want a comprehensive full-day trip, a focused local-guided walk, or a peaceful kayak adventure, there’s something for all. We especially recommend the From Jesolo: Day Trip to Murano, Burano, and Torcello for a classic, well-organized experience, or the Guided Tour of Burano Island for a more intimate look.
No matter which you choose, early booking will help you make the most of your time in this uniquely photogenic corner of Italy. Dive into Burano’s lively colors and quiet corners—you’ll leave with great photos, richer stories, and a deeper appreciation for this tiny island’s magic.