Glass is everywhere in Venice. You do not have to go to Murano to buy it- it is more expensive there. I have also found Murano glass in US retailers (TJMAXX, HomeGoods) to be a better bargain then in Venice.

However, some of the glass bead jewelry in Venice (available everywhere) is very special- and worth a look.

Beware.

Six hundred years ago, the Venetian government moved its prized glass blowing industry to an island in the middle of the lagoon. The reasons are varied: some say it was to keep the carefully trained craftsman employed here (so much for benefits programs to do that); others say it was because the wood-burning ovens would so combustible that people worried locating the studios in Venice would result in numerous, damaging fires. Whatever the reason, Murano glass is now prized around the world (proud Venetians will tell you that Baccarat glass, in France, was actually started by a Murano blower who left Italy. Three things make a trip to Murano special: 1) The boat ride out to the island, a wind-in-your-face experience that allows you to see life in the lagoon. Watch for the island cemetery and the hospital. 2) A tour of the glass blowing studios. Be wary of storefront operations that tout Murano glass but actually sell knock-offs. If you can't see them make it in the back room, be suspicious. We spent about $500 on three pieces that we now proudly display in our living room (the most expensive artwork we've purchased, I think). Ask a lot of questions about the process and then go into the showroom and look at the fine creations. For people on a budget, most places offer imperfect works with very minor flaws at a greatly reduced price. If you aren't making an investment but, instead, want a keepsake, go for the imperfects. 3) Murano is a fine island to stroll and have lunch.