SANTA CLAUS VILLAGE
Yes Santa Claus’s Village really does exist and it’s in Finlands town of Rovanie.
We did just that while visiting Venice with our close friends from Adelaide, Australia—Angela, John, and their two boys, Alexander and Leo. Angela, who has Italian roots, suggested we make the trip to both Murano for its rich glassmaking history and to Burano, for its vibrant, colorful houses.
Boy, am I glad she did! Not only did we create lasting memories, but even the kids were enthralled, which is no small feat. Here’s everything you need to know to follow in our (sometimes sticky, sweaty… to say it was hot, is an understatment) footsteps!
STEPPING INTO SANTA CLAUS VILLAGE FEELS LIKE WALKING STRAIGHT INTO A FAIRYTALE.
WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
Murano and Burano lie a short ferry ride away from Venice, making them perfect for day trips. Murano is renowned for its exquisite centuries old glassmaking traditions, while Burano is famed for its rainbow-hued canalside homes and delicate lace-making. Both islands offer their own unique charm and engaging character which is becomes apparent as you stroll about either island.
It makes sense to plan on visiting both islands on the same day. It’s doable, in that it allows you to maximize your ferry fare, and gives you the best opportunity to take in two of Venice’s best known surrounding islands over the course of of one day.
ALISIJA FOUND A PRETTY OLD HOME TO POSE IN FRONT OF
THE BEST WAY TO GET TO THE ISLANDS
You’ll need to hop on a ferry (locally known as a Vaporetto) to get to Murano and Burano. While it sounds simple enough, our ticket-buying process was, well… character building in itself.
We first tried to purchase Vaporetto tickets near the Rialto Bridge (Ponte di Rialto), only to be redirected to the departure pier—a 10-minute walk away. Once onboard, their contactless payment machine had trouble connecting to the internet. Picture this: a full ferry, sticky summer heat, fidgety kids… It was a solid 15 minutes of awkward smiles and prayers for the Wi-Fi gods to pull through. And so they did. Eventually. We purchased “unlimited” day passes at €30 per person (and hooray, kids under 6 ride free!). It stings a little to fork over approximately AU$200 (US$130 or £105) for the family, but, given what’s on offer at the two islands, It’s worth the day pass.
A VIEW FROM THE DOCK UPON ARRIVING IN MURANO
STOP 1: GLASS BLOWING MAGIC IN MURANO
The boat ride to Murano takes about 20 minutes, with Venice’s striking skyline behind you. Once we arrived, the island’s charm was evident straightaway. Walking along Murano’s canals, we were immediately drawn to its many stunning glass shops. Each one showcased a variety of offerings from delicate vases, chandeliers, and intricate sculptures. Some shopkeepers proudly displayed signed photos of celebrities—Hollywood stars, sports legends—who had visited their studios. The kids loved hearing these stories, wide-eyed as though glass blowing were suddenly way cooler than Roblox.
MURANO CANAL
The heat from the furnace was so intense that sweat was running down my cleavage and followed the lumps of my breasts and onto my nipples.
THE GLASS CATHEDRAL SANTA CHIARA – A MUST-SEE
THIS STUNNING SPACE IS OFTEN USED FOR LUXURIOUS EVENTS
My children, avid fans of Netflix’s "Blown Away", were desperate to try their hand at glass blowing. Asking around, a local pointed us toward The Glass Cathedral Santa Chiara (a stunning Medieval building recently restored and openedto visitors). Not only does it host events, but its daily glass making demonstrations are enthralling and engaging with adults and kids alike.
We were mesmerised as we watched the expert glassmaker shape a dolphin from molten glass. When the demo ended, the kids were so excited to see the tools up close and pose for photos. Even better, they got hands-on opportunities to get a sense how masterpieces of glass art come to life.
As for the Cathedral itself, it was stunning, blending history with modernity in a way that left us speechless.
Before heading out, we treated ourselves to some small glass keepsakes — a perfect reminder of this unique island.
THE ENTRANCE TO THE CATHEDRAL & GLASS BLOWING DEMONSTRATION
STOP 2: POSTCARD-PERFECT BURANO
Next, it was onto Burano, a smaller, quieter island about 25 minutes from Murano by Vaporetto. If Murano is about craftsmanship, Burano is pure visual color therapy.
A RAINBOW OF HOUSES
The iconic colorful buildings of Burano are straight out of a postcard. Every corner, every canal seemed worth photographing. Even my kids, who normally grumble about “more old buildings,” were intrigued, pointing out their favorite colors. Marvellous!
STOP FOR GELATO (AND MAYBE CAKE… IF YOU’RE LUCKY)
By midday, the sun decided to turn up the heat, so gelato was non-negotiable. (Angela skillfully talked us through the menu—thank goodness for Italian friends!) While the kids slowly savored their dripping cones, I searched fruitlessly for cake, as I’ve never been much of a gelato fan. Guess I’d have to wait until Bologna to satisfy my latest dessert obsession (stay tuned for that).
SLOW WALKS AND SWEET NOSTALGIA
Burano’s serene atmosphere finally coaxed us into slowing our pace. We meandered through its canals, soaking in the stillness, and reminisced with our friends about how much life had changed since one of our first experiences together at the Sea & Vines Festivals in McLaren Vale, Adelaide Australia some 16 years ago. Something about being surrounded by such unique, peaceful surroundings makes you want to connect deeper with the people you’re with.
TIPS FOR FAMILIES VISITING MURANO & BURANO
Plan for hot weather in the summer months. Bring hats, sunscreen, and lots of water.
Buy your Vaporetto tickets in advance to avoid onboard hiccups (see above).
Ask locals for recommendations. Whether it’s a hidden shop, a quiet café, or the best spot for photos, locals know best.
Keep snacks on hand. While there’s plenty of food on both islands, hungry kids (and distracted parents) appreciate quick access to snacks during ferry rides.
WHY IT’S WORTH THE DAY TRIP
Visiting both Murano and Burano is one of those rare, Instagram-worthy activities that’s surprisingly family-friendly. From watching molten glass being turned into a unique work of art in Murano, to exploring colorful canals fit for a storybook in Burano, it’s a day trip your family will always remember.
If you’re planning your next adventure to Venice, don’t skip out on these islands. Trust me, they’ll form a memorable part of your trip — just like they did for us!
Much love,
Natalija xoxo
Have you been to these Islands? Or is it on your bucket list? I would love to hear your comments below + follow my journey on Instagram & don’t be shy to say hello!
