Behind-the-Scenes Tours of Murano

Murano has become a popular tourist destination in recent years, however most visitors never experience the real magic of the island. The most fascinating studios on Murano, those of the true Masters, are not open to the public. Having worked closely with several of the island’s most respected artists throughout the past ten years, Domenico Cavallaro can offer access to behind-the-scenes experiences that no other tour guide can provide.

Working with each group to craft a unique and meaningful experience of Murano, Cavallaro’s offerings range from full-service, day-long tours to custom itineraries tailored to the needs of the individual traveler.

Full-Service, Day-Long Tour:

(offered throughout the month of September; must be scheduled according to availability of artists)

  • Water Taxi service to and from your hotel
  • Tour the studio of Davide Salvadore, where you’ll enjoy prosecco and light refreshments
  • Technical demonstrations by various artists, agreed upon in advance based on your interests
  • Lunch at the finest dining Murano has to offer, selected by Cavallaro based on your personal preferences
  • Guided walking tour, including information about the history and culture of the island
  • Hour-long visits to the studios of your choice of 2 – 3 additional artists

Full-Service Tour Pricing:

Full service tours are offered throughout the month of September for the price of $500. This price is for groups of up to four people, and includes translation service, detailed explanation of techniques and historical information by Domenico Cavallaro. Tours can be arranged for larger groups and for other times of the year, however additional fees may apply. Please contact Cavallaro for a quote. (Tour fees are waived if any member of the group makes a purchase of $5,000 or more during their visit.)

Additional Services Offered:

  • Artist introductions via e-mail
  • Appointment setting
  • Custom Itineraries
  • Purchase advice and arrangements
  • Commissions
  • Artist Training/Workshops, Private or Groups

A sampling of artists whose studios are open to Cavallaro’s clients:


  • Lucio Bubacco
  • Pietro & Riccardo Ferro
  • Signoretto Lampadari
  • Davide Salvadore
  
  • Livio Seguso
  • Pino Signoretto
  • Cesare Toffolo

 

Testimonials

“Our trip to Murano was magical. Thanks to you, Domenico, and to the artists we visited.”

- Bud Siemering and Vickie Watson, Collectors
“Thank you so much for the fascinating day on Murano. We had a great time!”

- Janet Nicholson, Glass Artist
“We regularly receive requests from collectors to help them connect with the Venetian artists we represent. We always refer them to Domenico because we know he is going to take great care of them and that is important to us.”

- William Traver, Traver Gallery
“In 2007, Domenico Cavallaro coordinated a trip for me to study Italian Glass techniques with Maestro Davide Salvadore and his family in Murano. Domenico made all the arrangements for accommodations, education and sightseeing. It was a life-changing experience.

My two weeks living in Murano deepened my understanding, not only of glass making techniques, but of the rich history of glass making with this sub-culture of Italy. It did not take long for me to appreciate the charm of these hard working people and their zest for perfection and passion for unique glass making processes. The “furnaces” (studios) were historic in their own right and housed skilled artisans making a variety of glass from chandelier to sculpture. Each furnace has unique style and design. This helped me to realize how special and important this island and its small population are in terms of world glass art. Thanks to Domenico for arranging a trip that has permanently altered not only my own work as a glass artist, but my view of the material over all.”

- Steve Funk, Collector and Glass Artist
“What could have been a typical tourist visit to the city of Venice and neighboring islands turned into a magical, once in a lifetime experience because of glass Maestro Davide Salvadore and his extraordinary manager, Domenico Cavallaro.

After a slightly disappointing, very touristy Venice experience, our whole trip changed when Domenico sent a beautiful wooden water taxi to whisk us to the tranquil setting of Murano. There he had arranged for us to stay in an unmatched, boutique hotel right on the canal. While we were there, he acted as our personal guide and friend, helping us navigate the town. We got the behind the scenes tour of glass blowing and cold working studios, chandelier factories and shops. Restaurants stayed open late for us and made us special dishes not even on the menu. The highlight was a private glass blowing demonstration by the maestro himself, his partner and his sons. Davide’s wife even made us a spectacular lunch with the fresh tuna caught by Davide himself. Another day they took us by boat to the neighboring island of Burano, another picturesque city of canals and vibrant colors that specialized in lace making.

One doesn’t have to be “into” glass to enjoy this experience. We traveled with some friends who absolutely loved the experience just because as a guest of a local you see a city in a completely different way. We have since referred several others who were treated to Domenico’s hospitality and commented that it was truly the highlight of their trip. Thank-you Davide and Domenico.”

- Roger and Nancy Macpherson - Architect

glass@domenicocavallaro.com
614.783.6159