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Art and culture activities in Metropolitan City of Venice

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Art and culture activities led by local experts

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5 out of 5 average rating, 2 reviews

Design a Venetian silkscreen at a historic workshop

Welcome to Fallani Venezia, the workshop my father opened in the 1960s, which now serves as a hub for local and international artists to experiment with the age-old printing technique of serigraphy, or screen printing. • We’ll begin with a tour of the workshop and its history, and dive into the craft of artistic serigraphy. • I’ll walk you through the entire screen-printing process, from preparing the screen and mixing colors to transferring the image and drying the final print. • Roll up your sleeves and put your inner artist to work! You’ll create your own two-color print on two different colored papers, or on a tote bag or T-shirt. The Venice-inspired design you’ll print is created exclusively for our workshop by a local artist. When our day of artistic expression is done, I’ll mark the prints with our workshop’s embossing stamp as a memento of your time with us.

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Private tour of an artist's Murano glassmaking studio

Visitors to Murano, the “glass islands” in the Venetian Lagoon, often arrive with a preconceived idea of glass. But I want to show you how it can be entirely different from what you expect. We’ll explore glass as a medium for critical reflection, irreverent humor, and innovation. • I’ll show you around the gallery where I display my glass jewelry and sculptures, and discuss the long history of the glassmaking craft on Murano. • Head back to my workshop, where I’ll demonstrate how I transform solid glass into liquid and shape it into a wearable art piece. • Share a glass of wine or a cup of coffee afterward, and I’ll answer your questions and offer my thoughts on contemporary glass in Murano. If you wish to purchase any jewelry, you’ll receive a 10 percent discount during your visit.

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Discover Murano glassmaking with a fourth-generation artisan

Step into the world of NasonMoretti with an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of how our historic Murano glassworks come to life. • Your journey begins with an introduction to Murano’s glassmaking heritage and century-old craftsmanship, along with a tour of our private museum to look at archive pieces and historic designs. • Next, we'll visit three unique workspaces, including the Chemical Department to see how we create our signature colors, the Hotshop to witness master glassmakers in action and learn how intricate techniques are used, and the Coldshop, where engraving, polishing, and finishing techniques take place. • Finally, we'll visit the showroom housed in a stunning 16th-century warehouse, where you can admire or purchase pieces. You’ll leave with new knowledge of Murano’s glassmaking tradition, as well as an optional keepsake to take home.

5 out of 5 average rating, 1 reviews

Craft Paper flowers in a 15th century Palazzo

Step into a historic Venetian salon for a two-hour workshop where you’ll master the art of crafting a delicate paper flower, inspired by Venice’s rich flora, fine art, and the city’s famous paintings. • To start (and to get inspired), we’ll explore the stunning halls of my family’s palazzo, adorned with old paintings and period furniture. It offers a unique glimpse into the city’s aristocratic charm and sets the perfect scene for our creative experience. • Learn step-by-step techniques for shaping petals, leaves, and stems, using pre-dyed paper and natural colors like beetroot and coffee. I’ll guide and advise you, ensuring you feel confident and accomplished throughout the process. • Leave with a beautifully crafted flower, carefully packaged for safe travel, and a guide to continue your creative journey at home. Whether you’re drawn to the city’s timeless beauty or eager to learn a new skill, this workshop is a chance to immerse yourself in Venetian craftsmanship, explore the beauty of natural dyes, and create a lasting memento.

5 out of 5 average rating, 4 reviews

Create Murano glass mosaics alongside master artisans

Venetian mosaics have been renowned for centuries, and my partner and I at Artefact Mosaic are dedicated to keeping this beautiful craft alive. In this two-hour workshop at our studio, you’ll make a mosaic inspired by the art in St. Mark’s Basilica. • We’ll begin by introducing you to mosaic-making techniques and tools, staying true to the craft as it was practised in the Byzantine era. • You’ll learn how to use a mosaic hammer to hand-cut marble tesserae, and then select the colors of Murano glass that you’d like to use. We’ll work with the same glass tiles used to restore the basilica, including its iconic gold tiles. • We’ll offer guidance as you create a small mosaic. You’ll learn new artistic skills, deepen your appreciation for this ancient craft, and take away your very own mosaic to remember Venice by.

5 out of 5 average rating, 2 reviews

Create your own Venice masterpiece in an open-air workshop

See, paint, and live Venice one brushstroke at a time in this en plein air colour therapy workshop, where you’ll learn to paint city scenes with a watercolour artist. • Meet at my gallery, Vert de Venise, and explore the pigments that define the Venetian spirit. I’ll explain how to mix colors, revealing the subtle differences between lagoon green and canal blue. • Palettes at the ready, step outside to paint by the canal, capturing the play of light and water that makes Venice so magical. I’ll recommend the colour techniques of great masters to incorporate into your work. • Finally, share and discuss your artworks in the hidden noble garden of Ca’ Rezzonico and appreciate your creations. I’ll provide personalized feedback and insights. You’ll leave with your own Venetian artwork and a new appreciation for the city’s colour palette.

4.75 out of 5 average rating, 4 reviews

Dine by the Grand Canal at an art collector's palazzo

Join an art collector and chef for an exclusive private meal in my bohemian apartment, located in a palazzo that overlooks the Grand Canal. • We’ll begin with an aperitivo and some cicheti (Venetian tapas), surrounded by my contemporary art collection. • Next, we’ll enjoy a three-course meal celebrating Venetian culinary traditions. Each meal will be paired with a 1/2 bottle of white, red, or sparkling wine from the region. • Throughout the meal, I’ll share insights into Venice’s rich gastronomic heritage, including its deep love of seafood and the role of spices in the city’s commerce and cuisine. You’ll leave with a sample of my homemade artichoke liqueur or a spice mix unique to Venice

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Jewelry-making workshop in a hidden Venetian garden

Craft a one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry inspired by Venetian architecture in this hands-on maker workshop at my studio. • Begin our journey in a tranquil garden surrounded by historic charm, where I’ll share my design philosophy and explain my sustainable techniques. • Learn how to use repurposed industrial materials like aluminum chains and steel springs, and explore how they can be disassembled and transformed to create something light beautiful. • Using these materials, design and craft a quadrilobo (quatrefoil), the iconic Gothic motif adorning many Venetian landmarks. It can be worn as an earring, a keychain, or a brooch, or used as a personal keepsake. You’ll leave with new skills in Venetian craftsmanship, and a unique handcrafted piece of wearable art.

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Walk through the underbelly of Venice's past

For centuries, Venice was a city shrouded in mystery, its noble inhabitants leading dual lives—one by daylight and another in the shadows. Wander the city’s labyrinthine streets to uncover tales of spies, gamblers, nighttime enforcers, brothels, and masked noblemen. • Start with an introduction to the Codega, a lantern-bearing silent observer of Venice’s illicit activities, and a spicy tale about the “naughty nuns” of San Zaccaria Church. • Walking along the Riva degli Schiavoni, hear about figures like Casanova, who was imprisoned nearby, and the elaborate network of city spies. • Passing by the Ridotto, an early Venetian version of a nightclub, uncover its role as a venue for transgression, and explore the city’s dice and gambling culture as well as a government-authorized brothel. You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of this magical city, as well as my suggestions for further exploration.

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Hands-on workshop using wood from the Venetian lagoon

Discover the art of Venetian craftsmanship in this hands-on woodworking workshop drawing on a centuries-old tradition to create a one-of-a-kind design piece from repurposed wood. • We’ll begin with a tour of the Lunardelli Venezia atelier, where I’ll share the history, inspiration, and craftsmanship behind our unique creations. • Next, you’ll don a carpenter’s apron and step into the role of artisan to craft your own iconic design piece we call Sfojetto, a local term for a small fish that inhabits the Venetian Lagoon. This exquisite object, whose triangular flat shape is inspired by the fish itself, is made from a horizontal slice of briccole, the oak posts used to mark out canals in the lagoon. • I’ll guide you through every step of creating your Sfojetto, from cutting and sanding the wood to prepare it for finishing, applying beeswax to enhance the wood’s natural beauty, and adding personal touches. You’ll take home a one-of-a-kind handcrafted piece, symbolically embedded with the history and ecology of Venice.

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4.99 out of 5 average rating, 536 reviews

The secret corners of Burano

Hi! My name is Silvia and I live in Burano, a delightful island in the lagoon of Venice, known for its technicolor little houses and the charming atmosphere of its secret corners. My intent is to show you the most authentic, colourful, interesting and fun side of this amazing little island. After meeting the public vaporetto stop we will walk until Corte Comare, an enchanting little square with rainbow coloured houses, perfect to be photographed and then reach a beautiful view of the lagoon from where you can admire Mazzorbo, S. Francesco del Deserto, and in the distance the beautiful Venice. Crossing the Three Bridges we will then reach the Giudecca district, my favorite of all the 5 boroughs of Burano (in fact my orange house is right here, haha), and home to dozens of the best fishermen of the island. With a little luck we will admire them at work with their catch of the day: branzini, moeche and gò, the small fish with which the typical risotto of Burano is made. Walking a little further along quiet and surprising streets we will arrive at Piazza Galuppi, home of the Church where a masterpiece by Giambattista Tiepolo is treasured, and the famous Merletti "lace" School, before continuing to other unique and unforgettable corners. Follow me and you will discover the real Burano and its people (inhabitants 2860). Other things to note At the end of the tour, if you are interested, we will visit a lace atelier where authentic lace is made During the tour there are 4 bridges to cross The tour works with rain and shine

4.92 out of 5 average rating, 2757 reviews

Workshop Murano Glass Experience

The workshops consist of an hour and a half of work and fun divided into two parts. The first involves the use of a transparent glass plate where guests will create a figure with pieces of Murano glass, called graniglia, which will then be cooked in the oven. The glass will melt and the created figure will remain with the guest. The second part consists of a demonstration phase by the Maestro and subsequently a practical test of Murano glass processing by the guests. Guests will work the glass with the flame and experience the pleasant sensation of ancient lampwork. The workshops are also ideal for families with children over 12, who will love the magic of glass (Not under 12 years old except as a private lesson) Other things to keep in mind The works completed in the first part of the workshop will be cooked in the oven for approximately 3 hours, while the objects made with the flame will be ready after 2 hours of cooling. Everything will be delivered the same day after 2/3 hours or the following day in agreement with the customers. Workshop duration: 1.5 hours.

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 829 reviews

Work with Murano glass with expert teacher

Our experience is suitable for those who really want to test themselves with the production of glass. Not a quick taste, but the entry into a reality made of contemporary art and glass production by a duo of artists specialized in teaching and relationality. We will welcome our guests in the Murano studio, where many of our crafts and contemporary art works are exhibited. After a first presentation of what we do, we will illustrate to the guests the technique practiced by Andrea, the lampworking of the glass, which is carried out with a small flame and which is used to produce small glass objects. After a first demonstration made by Andrea, in which the glass rods will melt to show how small objects are produced, the guests will be guided towards the production of some simple glass elements (small colored beads). The artifacts that guests will be able to produce can be brought home. Other things to note: The experience is suitable for both individuals and small groups of maximum 4 - 6 people (if more contact us to find a specific solution). Experience is recommended from the age of 14. The languages in which the experience is performed are English and Italian. If there are special language requirements (French or Spanish) you should contact us before to organize. Punctuality is recommended so as not to create inconvenience to other guests.

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 2194 reviews

Legends, Ghosts and Ghouls of Venice

The now tranquil streets of Venice where not always so. Have you ever walked down a street alone and felt eyes watching you? Maybe a shadowy figure moving in the distance? Join me as we visit the locations of those local spirits that you've felt and seen in the dark foggy nights. Learn the story behind each one and if they are friend or foe! Shatter your illusions of knights in shining armor that save the day, learn how enemies of the state were dealt with and how desire for power leads even the most noble down dark and twisted paths. Other things to note Please note that Venetian folk lore like many is from a time far before ours. To tell the stories at full effect how they are told among locals, details are very graphic. This tour includes “curse words” gore and violence, I do not sugar coat the realities of our past world. Please bare this in mind when booking if you are accompanied by children. Please also understand this tour cannot be PG rated if accompanied by children in a public group I heavily advise that you book privately when bringing anyone who might need the graphic details to be removed. Children under the age of 11 years old are not permitted on the public experience. This experience is designed to stir your curiosity for the dark side of our collective story.

4.85 out of 5 average rating, 13 reviews

Murano Glassmastery Private Boat Transfer & Exclusive Visit

Embark on a luxurious private boat cruise from the heart of Venice, near Piazza San Marco, to the enchanting island of Murano. During this scenic journey, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Venetian Lagoon, passing by the picturesque islands and landmarks that make this part of the world so iconic. Upon arrival in Murano, you'll step into the world-renowned tradition of glassmaking. Visit an authentic glass factory where skilled master glassmakers, with decades of experience, will demonstrate their extraordinary craft. Watch in awe as molten glass is transformed into stunning works of art right before your eyes. The artistry and skill involved in creating Murano glass are nothing short of magical. After the demonstration, you’ll be granted exclusive access to the factory’s private studio and showroom. Here, you’ll have the chance to view and admire the finished pieces—ranging from intricate sculptures to delicate jewelry and vibrant home decor. Although there is no obligation to purchase, you’ll be able to buy these exceptional pieces directly from the factory at wholesale prices, offering you a unique opportunity to bring a piece of Murano craftsmanship back home. This experience is a perfect blend of culture, art, and luxury—offering a personal and unforgettable encounter with Venice’s timeless glassmaking heritage.

4.85 out of 5 average rating, 1444 reviews

Islands walking Tour Torcello Burano Murano with Andrea

During this half-day trip, I’ll accompany you discovering the most beautiful Lagoon's islands of Murano, Burano and Torcello on board of the most strange typologies of bus all over the world: the Vaporetto! Best friend of every Venetian since 1895 when started its unbeatable service! (At 9am an early intimate, unforgettable and relaxing lagoon trip :) Best thing We'll explore Torcello, 17 century ago the first Venice community. Today the last 9 locals are still living inside a "dark ages city" where everything is like a lot of centuries ago.. From the top of their Romanic Tower you’ll enjoy a stunning view of the Venice’s lagoon! At what about the second amazing trip to Burano, the fashinating colorful town, fishers community famous for its millenial lacemaking industry? You will see one of the last Lace Factory where the last old lacers are still doing this very ancient handmade tradition! I'm sure: You'll love them! In the end We will visit the world famous Murano, where the last 20 families are still producing our amazing glass masterpieces like 1000 years ago! Walking tour will be across the “Glasser’s street”: we’ll explore a real Glass Factory with its family Art Gallery seeing Masters working! (Around 12 I really suggest to take your lunch time in Burano: where is made one of the best local seafood cuisine) (24h VAPORETTO TICKET IS NOT INCLUDED _ IT IS COSTING 21e)

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 669 reviews

Mask Workshop in a Secret Garden

This workshop takes place at Carta Alta, an artisanal mask making studio that created many of the masks worn in famous film productions, such as “Gossip Girl”, “Fifty Shades of Black” and “Spider-Man Far From Home”. The experience starts with a brief explanation of the history of masks in Venice, focusing on the most significant models: the “Commedia dell'Arte" masks, the “Bauta” the “Moretta” and the “Dottore della Peste”. After this introduction we pass on to show you the main techniques we use in our craft when decorating the masks, mainly focusing on our signature: the “baroque technique”. We will prepare for you a wide range of paper-mache masks to choose from and our friendly expert team will assist you in the creation of the handmade masterpiece that you will take home with you in the end. There will of course be time to ask all the questions you would like, and we are happy to share our knowledge about this antique venetian craft and the explanations will be adjusted according to the age and the interests of the participants.And remember, if you want you can take pictures with your creation and our famous masks to share with your friends. Also, do you need recommendations about local and traditional places to eat and drink or non touristy things to do and see in Venice? Ask our staff and we will be happy to help you!

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 1011 reviews

Hidden canals and lagoon of Venice

We will start from the Church of San Lazzaro dei Mendicanti on the north side of the city and along the Venice Arsenal we will visit the Castello district, one of the oldest parts of the city. We will make a small stop in front of the church of San Pietro di Castello for an aperitif and then continue to the southern part of the city where we will have a panoramic view of the Lido of Venice, the small islands of the southern lagoon and of San Giorgio. We will then return to the canals of Castello until we return to the meeting point. IMPORTANT: The experience works through a sport association, so, legally, I need to release you the sport association member card and the addictional insurance. In order to do that I need your documents at least one day before the experience date.

4.96 out of 5 average rating, 1264 reviews

Venetian Stories on the Boat

On board of my "sanpierotta"( tipically wooden boat of lagoon fishermen) we'll make a trip that, throught the places of the present city, exploring the stories from the past. We'll wander about the lagoon and the city, conversing ( if you want..) for about 1,5 hours. To see Venice from the water perspective it's essential to understand Venice. Other things to note By Agreement, it's possible to be picked up in Venice. On request, private non-scheduled experiences can be planned. Special prices for families.

4.96 out of 5 average rating, 1252 reviews

Experience a real Murano glass factory

Do you want to learn about the inner workings of a real Murano workshop? Are you tired of the endless tourist traps around Venice and Murano? Look no more! With this experience i want to show you what a real glass factory looks and feels like, understand the production process of glass from sand to a bespoke piece, and watch real Murano Glass Masters while they blow glass (explanation in english) What you will experience: - THE BATCH ROOM, the place where it all starts: In here sand and other chemicals are mixed to perfection to obtain that will melt into glass once charged into a 1400°C furnace. - THE HOTSHOP, where the magic happens: You will learn about the glass melting process, from chemical mix to molten glass, how the furnaces work and an overview of all the tools we use - THE COLDSHOP, where the glass really starts to shine! You will see all machines used to carve, drill, cut, flatten, and polish glass. Are you looking for something more? Then look for our other listed activities, we are the top Airbnb Experiences in all of Venice! Have a look at our reviews :D THINGS TO NOTE: - We ask guests to arrive 5 minutes before starting so you have enough time to check in. From Venice, depending on where you are, it might take even 50 minutes to get to Murano, so plan accordingly! - We are closed on weekends! We do not organize tours on Saturdays and Sundays.

Art and culture activities in Metropolitan City of Venice

Art and culture activities led by local experts

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