Burano Tours and Tickets

Burano is one of the most popular and distinctive islands in the Venetian lagoon. Long a center for traditional lacemaking, the UNESCO-listed island is especially noteworthy for its colorful houses. Small in scale and accessible on foot (once you’ve arrived by boat), Burano is worth going out of your way to explore.

The easiest and most direct way to travel from Venice to Burano is by water bus (vaporetto). Line 12 is the fastest and most direct route, departing from Fondamenta Nove in Venice. You can also take the water bus line 14, although it’s a slower route.

Burano is famous for its ultra-colorful houses. According to legend, the houses were painted in vivid colors to make them more visible in the mist-shrouded lagoon, helping fishermen to find their way home. Today, residents are assigned a specific color for their homes and are required to repaint regularly.

Burano, like much of the wider Venice region, gets especially crowded during the summer high season. Visit during the autumn or spring shoulder seasons for a quieter experience and decent weather. It’s also advised to arrive early in the day, and to aim for weekdays if possible.

Yes, you can buy lace from artisans and specialty shops in Burano. Be aware that some shops may sell inauthentic or machine-made lace, so look for places where lacemaking is taking place. The Lace Museum (Museo del Merletto) has a gift shop where you can buy authentic lace.

Yes, there are a number of tours that explore Burano. A walking tour with a local guide will typically cover the history of Burano, including stories behind the landmarks and a chance to visit areas that tourists might otherwise overlook.