Traveling from Venice to the nearby island of Murano (the "Glass Island") is accomplished by boat, either by taking a public vaporetto (water taxi) or hiring a private water taxi. Many hotels also offer free boat shuttles to the island as well.

For a visit to Venice and Murano (as well as Rome and Florence), consider this 8-day tour, which includes a private boat tour of Murano, led by a knowledgable local guide. Our 13-day Venice, Florence and Rome itinerary also features a leisurely guided visit to Murano, as does this 15-day option.

By Public Vaporetto (Water Taxi)

Duration: 8-10 minutes or 40-60 minutes

Venice's ATCV public vaporetto system runs ferries between Venice and Murano constantly every day. The Fondamente Nove stop that is located on the north side of the city is the primary departure point for Murano. Chose line 4.1 or 4.2 to make the journey to Murano via San Michele, the small island in between. The ferries run about every 15 minutes.

You can also catch the 4.1 and 4.2 vaporetto water taxis at the San Zaccaria stop, which is near the Piazza San Marco. That trip takes much longer, as the vaporetto stops all along the way around the island of Venice before you head over to Murano, so walking across the island to Fondamente Nove will actually get you there faster. Check the timetables for other stops as well all the way around the island where you can board those two vaporettos, and make sure the one you board goes to Murano, as certain 4.1 and 4.2 boats do not go to the island (those are usually running during rush hour).

The best ticket to buy is an unlimited pass, sold for 24 hours, 48 hours, 72 hours, or 7 days. Note that unlimited tickets do not include trips to Marco Polo Airport. Download the AVM Official Venizia App and you won't need to carry a ticket/pass, just your device. Be sure to activate your trip each time you board a water taxi.

By Private Boat (Water Taxi)

Duration: 10-30 minutes, depending on starting point

Hiring a private water taxi means an easy pickup at your hotel or other designated spot for the easy ride from Venice to Murano (and back). As one might expect, this is a significantly more expensive option than the public vaporetto, though economical enough when shared with a group (private water taxis can usually carry four guests). Booking a private boat that includes a guided tour is also possible, another option our local specialists can help set up for you. 

And be sure to ask at your hotel about transportation to Murano—many offer free private boat shuttles to the island.

 

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