Murano glass factories

Watch the masters at work
Word to the wise: Factories will often give away free remnants at the end of each day - great for those who like their glass a bit rough around the edges.

Murano is a byword for creative glass design, and you won't find better than the pieces being created on this island. The industry might be in decline, but that's all the more reason to come and see the artisans at work while you can. There are dozens of different studios and factories, most of which have an open-door policy, allowing visitors to wander in and see the glass being blown.
The larger studios do organised tours, but these can be expensive - it's much easier (and cheaper) to just arrive on spec, when you might be lucky enough to see a glassmaker put the finishing touches to a vase or decanter.

If you're after a souvenir, it's a good idea to do the window shopping in Venice, then pop back to Murano where you'll be able to find the same items fresh out of the factory, and with a much lower price tag.