Anyone know of some good websites to browse Murano glass before my trip to Venice this summer? I don't know that I'm interested in actually going to Murano, but would like to look at some glasses.

Hi md,

Try www.ebay.com

Murano glass is sold all over Venice. Many say it's actually cheaper in central Venice than on Murano. I really enjoy the trip over to Murano on the Vaporetto. It's a nice little getaway that takes only a couple of hours. (But then I liked the trip to Lido too).

Hi
as mentioned, Venetian glass IS Murano glass, and vice-versa.
There are plenty of gorgeous shops around Piazza San Marco such as Pauly and Venini, do a google and see if they have websites.
This is the factory I have bought from on Murano:
Albarelli & Nielsen, ponte Vivarini 143, 30141 Murano, Venezia. email [email protected]

I don't recommend them because they are less expensive, but because I like their designs.

I should clarify something I said above

Not all glass sold in Venice, or on Murano, is made there. Some of it comes from China, Poland, Czech Republic, etc and lot of that is inexpensive. True Murano glass has a sticker that says so.

ira,
I used to agree with browsing for Venetian glass on ebay, but most of it is dreadful--lots of garishly-colored fish and clown heads and ugly vases.
Some of the items turn out in the descriptions to be 'like' Murano glass or
'Murano glass?'
Once in a while there's a pretty vase or bowl, but not much in the way of drinking glasses.

Thanks folks.

When I was in Florence two years back, I regret not buying a set of six glasses, all solid but different colors, that would have made for the perfect container for the Morgan & Coke's like I am enjoying right now.

I'm going back in July, and will not be able to mention the same regret afterwards.

Do you folks pack your glass or have it sent back home by the store?