Fire & Glass: Our Hands-On Murano Glass Blowing Experience in Venice

Murano is world-famous for its glass — and watching it from behind a rope is one thing. Stepping up to the furnace, feeling the heat on your face, and shaping molten glass with your own hands? That’s something else entirely.

During our time in Venice, we were looking for unique things to do beyond the main sights. We booked a Murano glass blowing class at Wave Murano Glass Studio — and it quickly became one of the most memorable experiences of our trip. It was hot, a little intimidating, and completely unforgettable.

If you’re planning your trip to Venice, this is one of the most unique experiences you can include in your itinerary. If you’re wondering whether a Murano glass blowing experience is worth it, here’s exactly what to expect.

Is a Murano Glass Blowing Class Worth It?

Save

A Murano glass blowing class is absolutely worth it if you enjoy hands-on experiences and want something more meaningful than a typical sightseeing stop. Instead of simply watching a demonstration, you get to work with molten glass yourself and create a one-of-a-kind souvenir. It’s one of the most unique things to do in Venice.

Why Murano Is Famous for Glassmaking

Just north of Venice is the tiny island of Murano, home to glassmakers since the 1200s, when the Venetian government ordered the artists to move their furnaces to the island to prevent fires in Venice.

Why We Chose a Hands-On Glass Blowing Experience (Not Just a Demo)

I’ve always been enchanted by blown glass, so I jumped at the chance to make a piece myself. I booked a 2-hour beginner’s class with Wave Murano Glass and it was a perfect choice.

Our Hands-On Glass Blowing Experience in Murano

First Impressions: Inside a Working Glass Studio

The workshop is a real studio, with glassmakers at work. My husband and I were partnered with Stefania, who guided us in making our own pieces. We both chose to make cups.

The furnace heat was intense — the whole workshop was toasty!

First, we toured the facility to understand the process, and Stefania was strict about safety, making sure we stayed clear of other glassmakers at work.

Step-by-Step: How Murano Glass Is Made

The process is fascinating: gather molten glass on the blowpipe, inflate it into a bubble, dip it in crushed colored glass, shape it with specialized tools, and then cool it slowly to prevent cracking.

Our Turn: Making Our Own Glass Pieces

We selected our colors — bright yellow-orange for Mr. Explores and cool blue for me —and Stefania guided us through shaping our cups one at a time. We wore heavy, heat-protective sleeves on our forearms.

What Surprised Us About Glass Blowing

It’s More Physical Than You Expect

I expected warmth, but shaping the glass had me sweating! You must work quickly and reheat your piece to keep it malleable. The blowpipe is heavy — you roll, swing, and carry it to the furnace and back. It’s surprisingly tiring!

A New Appreciation for Murano Glass Artisans

Our simple cups gave me a new appreciation for the beautifully sculpted pieces around us. The artisans are true masters of their craft.

Why This Experience Is So Rewarding

Learning a new skill is always rewarding, and even more fun knowing we’d have unique souvenirs to bring home. My cup turned out a bit lopsided, but I was proud — it was my creation from start to finish.

Tips for Taking a Murano Glass Blowing Class

What to Wear for a Glass Blowing Class

Wear closed-toe shoes and loose, comfortable clothing (preferably cotton). Flip-flops or sandals aren’t allowed (for safety).

Set aside at least half a day. Travel to Murano via vaporetto takes time, and the class itself lasts at least 2 hours.

Who Should Take This Experience

This small-group class is best for adults (or teens) who enjoy learning by doing. You’ll need to tolerate heat and follow directions carefully.

Remember, a class where you participate is very different from a tour or demonstration — make sure you know what you’re booking!

What We Loved

Hands-on learning is our favorite, so we loved the full workshop experience. We also purchased a few artisan pieces — a water pitcher and a globe ornament — to take home alongside our handmade cups, which are beautiful reminders of Venice.

What to Consider

Save

You’ll need to return to pick up your glass once it cools (or arrange shipping).

We used that downtime to visit nearby Burano, a colorful island known for its lace-making traditions and pastel-painted houses — an easy and worthwhile addition to your day.

Final Thoughts: Is a Murano Glass Experience Worth It?

Murano’s glass is beautiful no matter how you experience it — but stepping into the process yourself changes everything. It’s no longer just something you admire on a shelf, but something you’ve felt, shaped, and struggled through.

And long after the glass cools, that’s the part you remember most.

Ready to try it yourself?
→ Book your Murano glass blowing class through Get Your Guide
→ Or check availability directly with Wave Murano Glass Studio

FAQ: Murano Glass Blowing Class

What’s the most unique hands-on experience you’ve tried while traveling?