Flamboyant candies, elegant lamps and ornate miniature statuettes are just some of the most fashionable and customary designs used in the world-renowned Murano blown glass. Murano is located just 3 km north of Venice and shares much the same composition of its neighbour—a lagoon of islands separated by canals and maneuvered by bridges and boats. The main difference between these two water worlds is the inferno that burns in Murano's glass-making heart.

Murano blown glass is adored worldwide for its impeccable quality and craftsmanship. The tradition of glass-making in Venice dates back to the 9th century and grew in popularity as the city's major industry. Historically, Murano blown glass was a great source of pride for the city, and in order to maintain its status, several olden laws were passed to help preserve the trade. Back in the day, glass-makers were considered dignitaries and allowed to carry swords. Imported glass was prohibited, foreign glass-workers were illegal; and finally, all glass-workers had to congregate in Murano (outside of Venice) and were not allowed to leave the city for fear of leaking trade secrets. In the 18th century, the Murano blown glass industry began to fade as technology advanced; and dwindling sales have been largely replaced by tourism since then.

Today several Murano glass factories are open to the public for tours which take you behind the scenes of how these classic pieces of glass are made. Murano blown glass was a trade born from function which has grown into an expression of art, skill and mastery. Follow the patient and deliberate movements of a master glass-maker as he sways a ball of molten glass rhythmically into a one-of-a-kind vase. To find a glass-blowing demonstration, simply wander around Murano and go into the artisan's shops or local stores. If you plan on visiting a larger more popularized glass-blowing demonstration, it is probably best to book in advance. Murano blown glass can be found around the world, but visiting its birthplace you can often find cherished pieces at a cheaper rate. Just be sure you can get it home safely.

The best time of year to visit Murano is during the spring or fall. During the peak summer months of July and August, Venice and surrounding areas like Murano are swamped with tourists. On extremely busy days the tourists are known to outnumber the locals.

The Voga Longa Festival, which celebrates the first day of spring, is held in May. It is a good time to plan a visit to Venice at this time. Most of the waterways shut down to enjoy a 30 km race which starts outside of Saint Marks Square. Another celebration worth timing your visit to in Venice is the Regata Storica (historic fleet event). On the first Sunday of every September, the Regata Storica takes place on the Grand Canal with teams dressed in classic Italian sailing attire competing to take home the championship title.

Murano blown glass comes with a pretty hefty price tag. If you are serious about picking up a piece then be prepared to spend several hundred euros for a typical piece. Alternatively, if you visit a smaller artisan shop, you can often persuade the master glass-maker to part with a scrap piece for free!