Glass-blowing in Murano

While it is perfectly possible to wander round the glass shops independently, you need to book an appointment at a furnace in advance. You’re best off booking onto a guide tour. If you want to buy glass, a few pointers to sort the schlock from true quality:

• glass shops toting vetro di Murano are usually a rip-off
• shops selling  vetro artistico di Murano are a little more reliable.
• the real deal is VERY expensive; a wine glass costing under €10 will be an Asian import.

Newly-opened gallery/design shop/restaurant/bistro Punta Conterie is a good stop-off for snacks or a gourmet meal and some contemporary glass culture. It has a rooftop terrace with watery views.

You can visit Murano seven days a week, all year round. But in the summer months it will be packed; go in winter for a more authentic experience.