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9 best venice tours: st. mark's basilica & more.

Explore one of the world's most beautiful cities on these top tours.

The Best Venice Tours

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Known for its canals, waterways, bridges and other historic attractions , Venice, Italy, offers travelers everything from centuries-old history to unparalleled beauty. Some of the best Venice tours take you to the quietest areas of the city – away from the crowds – to discover Venice's cuisine, wine and culture, while others showcase the city from the water by gondola or kayak. Consulting both traveler opinion and expert input, U.S. News identified the tours below as the best Venice has to offer.

Avventure Bellissime – Venice in 1 Day Tour

Price: Adults from 119 euros (about $129); kids from 104 euros (about $113) Duration: 3 hours

If you're short on time, consider this three-hour tour that hits multiple of Venice's top attractions. You'll enjoy skip-the-line access to St. Mark's Basilica , as well as a two-hour walking tour (capped at 20 participants) passing sights like Doge's Palace , St. Mark's Square , the Bridge of Sighs , the Rialto Bridge and more. The final leg of your tour is reserved for exploring Venice's world-famous waterways on a one-hour boat ride down the Grand Canal . This is a great way to see much of Venice in just one day, according to tourgoers. Travelers also say it's a great value.

Complimentary headphones are included. Tours run Monday to Saturday around 2:30 p.m. Note: Your shoulders, stomachs and knees must be covered to enter St. Mark's Basilica; large bags are prohibited inside as well. Know, too, that St. Mark's Basilica only offers skip-the-line tickets from April to October.

Check prices & availability on:

Venice Free Walking Tour – Campo SS Apostoli Venice Through the Centuries: North

Price: Free Duration: 2.5 hours

This tour could be a great way to start your visit to Venice. According to reviewers, valuable information is shared on the walk, including locals' recommendations of the best restaurants and places to visit, which could serve you well during the rest of your trip. Though each guide takes travelers along a slightly different route, you'll likely see some of the city's top attractions, learn about its centuries-old history and see much of its incredible architecture.

Tours depart daily at 11 a.m. from Campo Santi Apostoli in front of the well and travel to the eastern part of the Cannaregio district and the western part of the Castello district. The company asks you to consider donating what you think the tour is worth at its conclusion. Additionally, you must reserve a spot online in advance (there is a booking fee of 3 euros, or about $3, per participant). The company offers a couple of other sightseeing tours throughout Venice, as well.

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Venice Kids Tours – A Thrilling Secret Journey Into the Doge's Palace

Price: From 90 euros (about $97) per hour, per party Duration: 2 hours

Ideal for families with kids ages 7 to 18, this tour explores Doge's Palace. Guides lead families through some of the hidden corridors and secret passages not open to the general public as they share stories about the building's history. Also on the agenda is the attic prison, the former torture chamber and the armory, among other spots. Reviewers say their kids love the tour and recommend it to other families.

Kids must be at least 6 years old to tour; the company does not recommend the tour for pregnant women, or for those who have mobility problems or are claustrophobic. Trips depart in the morning only and are limited to five people. Venice Kids Tours offers other family-focused activities, such as scavenger hunts, walking tours and boat tours.

City Wonders – Murano & Burano Islands Small Group Tour by Private Boat

Price: Adults from $47; kids from $42 Duration: 5 hours

Explore two of Venice's most beautiful islands on this outing. You'll first journey to Murano by boat to see a glassmaking demonstration followed by time to shop and explore on your own. You'll then cruise to Burano, where you'll observe Italian women crafting lace by hand, visit a lace museum and stroll around the island. Travelers say the tour is educational and are pleased with the informative guides. Others wish they were given more time to explore the islands.

Tours run a few times daily, normally between 9 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. (and vary by season). City Wonders also operates tours of the Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Basilica, among other Venetian hot spots.

Courtesy of Walks of Italy)

Walks of Italy – Exclusive Alone in St. Mark's Basilica After Hours

Price: Adults from $90; kids from $86 Duration: 1.5 hours

This special tour treats you to an inside look at St. Mark's Basilica after it closes its doors to the general public. Guides lead no more than 25 tourgoers inside the basilica, sharing stories of its history as you explore. In addition, you'll visit the crypt, which is not open to the public during normal visiting hours. The crypt is said to house St. Mark's remains, as well as the Pala d'Oro altarpiece, which is adorned with nearly 2,000 gems. Tour-takers say after-hours is a wonderful time to see the cathedral and that guides are passionate and informed.

Tour times depend on the day, but generally depart between 7 and 9:45 p.m. several times a week. The company also offers a secret passages tour of the Doge's Palace, gondola rides and food tours, among other options.

Raphael Tours & Events – Rialto Food Tour in Venice

Price: From $103 Duration: 4 hours

On this tour, you'll explore Rialto by way of your taste buds as your guide takes you to pastry shops, wine bars, restaurants and markets. Along the way, you'll sample meats, cheeses, wines (including sparkling), polenta, olives and more. Travelers say the tour is wonderful and offers plenty to eat. They also appreciate the stories guides share during the adventure.

The tour operates daily, and start times are customizable. Raphael Tours also operates a walking tour of Venice.

Intrepid Urban Adventures – Cicchetti & Wine Tour of Venice

Price: From $107 Duration: 2.5 hours

Support the local economy on this foodie trip that takes you to locally owned and operated businesses to sample Venetian cuisine. During the tour, you'll eat seven cicchetti dishes (think: polenta, seafood and vegetables), drink five glasses of wine and indulge in one dessert. Though you may pass by some big sights like St. Mark's Square, you'll mostly visit less-touristy spots in the Rialto area of the city. Plus, you'll get to ride in a gondola. Travelers praise the tour guides and compliment the food and wine chosen.

Tours are typically offered Monday through Saturday at 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. While this is the company's sole Venice tour, you can tour with Intrepid Urban Adventures in Florence and Rome , too.

Venice Kayak – Premium Day Kayak Tour

Price: From 110 euros (about $119) Duration: 2.5 hours

Kayak your way through the Venetian lagoon on this trip. You'll immerse yourself in a new perspective as you paddle through canals. The company recommends you have a bit of paddling experience. If you don't, you may be able to ride in a double kayak with a more experienced paddler. Tourgoers say this is a wonderful way to see things you won't see on a regular tour and describe it as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Tickets include the use of all equipment, dry bags and shower facilities after your tour. (You may want to bring a change of clothes). Trips run daily at 5p.m. Venice Kayak offers a nighttime tour as well.

ShowMe Venice – The Secret Venice

Price: From $43 Duration: 2 hours

If you want to experience Venice like a true Venetian, travelers advise you to book this tour. You'll learn plenty about Venice's history – especially the Jewish Ghetto – all while exploring the city away from the busy tourist attractions. Tour-takers also appreciate the personal touches guides add to the tours, such as telling stories about their own life in Venice.

Tours are private, so you have your choice of departure times and days. Ticket fees will vary depending on the number of participants in your tour. ShowMe Venice offers a number of other tours both on land and in the canals via a boat.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Venice Hotels
• The Best Hotels in Italy
• The Best Places to Visit in Italy
• The Best Beaches in Italy
• The Best International Travel Insurance

Tags: Tours , Travel , Vacations , Europe Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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THE 10 BEST Venice Tours & Excursions

Tours in venice.

• Walking Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Chinese (Traditional)
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Murano & Burano Islands Guided Small-Group Tour by Private Boat

2. Legendary Venice St. Mark's Basilica with Terrace Access & Doge's Palace

3. Venice In a Day: Basilica San Marco, Doges Palace & Gondola ride

4. Venice: Grand Canal by Gondola with Commentary

5. Venice: St.Mark's Basilica & Doge's Palace Tour with Tickets

6. Eat Like a Local: 3-hour Venice Small-Group Food Tasting Walking Tour

7. Skip-the-Line: Doge's Palace & St. Mark's Basilica Fully Guided Tour

8. Venice: Charming Gondola Ride on the Grand Canal

9. Venice: St Mark's Basilica After-Hours Tour with Optional Doge's Palace

10. St Marks, Doges Palace, with Murano and Burano & Gondola Ride

11. Venice Food and Wine Tasting Tour with a Local Guide

12. Tour of The Real Hidden Venice

13. Welcome to Venice Small Group Tour: Basilica San Marco & Gondola Ride

14. A day among the most beautiful mountains in the world, the Dolomites and Lake Braies

15. 3 Hours Walking Tour in Venice Small Group

16. Murano, Burano and Torcello Half-Day Sightseeing Tour

17. Venice Food Tour - Eat like a Venetian

18. Venice in A Day: St Mark's Basilica, Doge's Palace & Gondola Ride

19. Best Of Venice: Saint Mark's Basilica, Doges Palace with Guide and Gondola Ride

20. Venice: Four Seasons Concert in the Vivaldi Church

21. Private gondola ride in Venice off the beaten track

22. Murano Glass Experience with a Visit to a Burano lace island

23. A sparkling day in the Prosecco Hills- From Venice

24. Venice Street Food Tour with Local Guide with Local Food Market Visit

25. Eat, drink and repeat: Wine and Food tasting tour in Venice

26. Private Doge's Palace and Saint Mark's Basilica Walking Tour

27. Traditional Home Cooking Experience in Venice

28. Experience Venice Like A Local: Small Group Cicchetti & Wine Tour

29. Market Tour and Cooking Class with a Venetian Chef

30. Venice Marco Polo Airport Link Arrival Transfer

What travellers are saying.

We are a group of professional venetian guides and tour leaders

We want you to feel as a real Venetian during your stay

Venice Local Guide tries always to make you love what you see and do with us in Venice

First time in Venice Tour

St. Mark to Rialto, first walk in Venice Duration: 3 hours (optional 2 hours) Venues to visit: external walk in St. Mark’s Square, with Basilica and Doge’s Palace, Rialto Bridge and marketplace

Off the beaten walk

A tour through the authentic Venice an off the beaten path walk far from the tourist crowd Duration: 3 hours (optional 2 hours) Venues: hidden places, genuine Venice views, real venetian life experiences

Historical Interiors Tour

Internal visit of the St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace

Duration: 3 hours

Meeting point: St. Mark

Land and sea Tour

A walking + boat combined tour

First time in Venice or Off the beaten walk tours plus 1 hour boat cruise

Places to visit: Grand Canal and little canals

Murano and Burano Tour

The top excursion to the most famous islands of the lagoon of Venice, glass, lace, cookies and landscapes.

Taverns Wine and Finger Food Tour

We go where venetians go, on a pre dinner walk to get fun and satisfy the will of tasting genuine food and drink in a local way.

Summer Sunrise Tour

Early morning tour of Venice, possibility to see the Sunrise on the lagoon, the people are still sleeping so nobody is walking around, the coolest temperature in summer Duration 2 or 3 hours

Venetian Villas Tour

An excursion by car or van into the Veneto Region to visit the leisure villas of the venetian aristocracy.

Venice Local Guide

We are a group of professional venetian guides and tour leaders with a long and established experience in touring people in venice and the veneto..

Our passion is the key of our work. We’ll take you by the hand to discover together the secrets and beauty of Venice. We want you to feel as a real Venetian during your stay, and Venice Local Guide tries always to make you love what you see and do with us in Venice.

The highlights, of course, but the off the beaten tracks as well. Always with nice and entertaining stories about the people that made this city famous around the world, as Marco Polo, Casanova or Vivaldi. Curiosities, tips and routes that only locals can reveal to you… especially in such a unique city .

Having fun while you get to know the history, art, culture, architecture, cooking and style of life Venice. Our goal is to make you experience different aspects of venetian life.

Private tours to enjoy completely your time; we are always happy to customize your desires to bring back home a wonderful record of your visit to Venice. Flexibility is a major issue for Venice Local Guide to better encounter your needs.

Venice is a complicated city for the traveller who comes for the first time without knowing how to move around or what to see, opening times of venues, where to eat. All of this can be costly and disappointing if you are not lead to the right places.

Explore, live, experience Venice… locally

WHO ARE WE?

Venice in a Day with St Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace & Gondola Ride

• Make the most of every moment on our Venice in a Day Tour, checking all the can't-miss sights (and a few hidden gems!) off your list in just one day.
• 8:30 AM tour only: Enjoy skip-the-line entry at St. Mark’s Basilica for more time to explore its incredible architecture and art.
• Skip the line at the Doge's Palace, the heart of politics and power in Venice, and uncover centuries of history within its storied walls.
• Relish in an only-in-Venice moment on a gondola ride through the heart of the city, included in the price of your tour.
• Explore Venice in a group of 20 people or fewer, with an expert local tour guide on hand to tell you the stories behind top attractions and hidden palaces alike.

Tour description

Explore the hidden beauty and fascinating history of venice in one day on our small group tour..

Please note: Only the 8:30 AM tour includes entrance to St. Mark's Basilica. The 8:45 AM tour will see the Basilica from the outside. It is not possible to bring large backpacks on the tour.

Your day starts as all great days in Venice do: with a stroll through the quiet back streets and bustling markets of the city. You’ll meet one of our expert local guides and group of 20 guests maximum for an intimate guided stroll.

Starting early, we'll get to the Rialto Bridge before the crowds descend to admire its incredible marble architecture before moving on to the bustling Rialto market. The chefs and nonnas of the city are shopping for the day's freshest ingredients, so there's no better time for a stroll through the stalls. Your guide will introduce you to a few of our more unconventional ingredients and share how (and why) Venetian cuisine differs from the rest of Italy’s. At the market and throughout your Venice in a Day Tour, they’ll give you tips on what and where to eat while you’re in town.

Our tour continues into the atmospheric neighborhoods of the city, across countless bridges and quiet piazzas. Along the way, you’ll see the childhood home of Marco Polo, the Venetian merchant who first spoke of China; duck inside San Giovanni Gristosomo to see paintings by Venetian masters Bellini and Sebastiano del Piombo; and discover how the “Church of Miracles” got its name—plus so much more! We consciously take you away from the beaten track and to our favorite local spots so you get a taste of the real Venice as well as the big name attractions.

Enjoy a gondola ride along the Grand Canal and quieter back canals of Venice.

We couldn’t say we were covering the best of Venice in a day if we didn’t include a gondola ride on our tour. After your walking tour, you’ll meet a local Venetian gondolier and your group will be split into different gondolas (maximum five people per gondola) for a ride along the Grand Canal and into the quieter back canals of the city. Duck under little bridges, admire ornate palaces, and watch the world go by as you sit back and enjoy this quintessential Venetian moment. With independent Venice gondola rides costing around €80/hour, this half-hour ride, included in the price of your tour, is a bargain.

Discover the top two sights of Venice—St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace—on our skip-the-line tours.

We’ll give you a short break after your gondola ride and meet back at St. Mark’s Square for the next part of our adventure. If you book the 8:30 AM tour, you'll skip the line into St. Mark's Basilica as your guide points out the features of this incredible church. If you book the 8:45 AM tour, your guide will pause outside the Basilica to explain how its east-meets-west architecture came about and the shady means by which the relics of St. Mark came to rest here.

Our day doesn’t end there, though. With pre-reserved, skip-the-line tickets to the Doge’s Palace, we’ll walk straight inside. It’s here that you’ll feel the most benefit for having a local tour guide. Home to some of the city’s most impressive artworks and architecture, Palazzo Ducale is so much more than something pretty to look at. Although it certainly is that, it’s also the historic heart of Venice and a repository for the best stories, from Casanova’s prison break to the Duke whose face was dramatically blacked out of every portrait and painting.

With our expert guides on hand to tell you all the juicy details, plus small groups so you can easily ask all the questions you want, your Doge’s Palace tour is guaranteed to be a highlight of your Venice visit.

Please note that this description is an example and your experience may vary depending on the season, day of the week, and group size. Regardless of where your tour goes, you always have an excellent experience.

Sites visited

Verified guest reviews, jun 05, 2024.

Our guide, Chiara, was outstanding. I have taken a half dozen Walks tours and they are always exceptional. This one was a very experience and our group of 11 (adults and teens) all enjoyed our guide and the tour. She was so knowledgeable and showed us all the highlights. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to understand the history of Venice and see the key sites. Bravo!!

May 25, 2024

Walks did a fantastic job with this tour - from online registration, pre-tour logistics, the tour and our tour guide. Walks limited the tour to at most 20 people. This was a perfect size. We saw some for groups with 50 people. Our tour guide, Mose, was very knowledgeable and had a good sense of humor.

May 09, 2024

Pamela was great, thank you!

May 08, 2024

Our guide was very knowledgable but the tour of St Marks and thr Doge’s palace were too long.

May 03, 2024

We had so much fun with Matteo on our Venice day tour. He was an exceptional guide - funny, knowledgeable, and he interacted fantastically with everyone in the group. Would not hesitate to recommend Matteo or this tour in Venice.

Know before you book

Similar tours, welcome to venice: walking tour, st mark's basilica & gondola ride, vip doge's palace secret passages tour, legendary venice: st. mark’s basilica with terraces & doge’s palace.

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Experience the best of Venice with Withlocals

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Enjoy Venice like a local

Let our local experts guide you through a handpicked selection of things to do on a private tour. Think hidden gems, insider stories, and all the local vibes. Ready to find your private tour of Venice? Your adventure-packed day is just one click away!

Top 10 tours in Venice

Make your stay in Venice complete with these things to do

1 The 10 Tastings of Venice

2 Off the Beaten Track in Venice: Dorsoduro Tour

3 Prosecco Hills Vespa Tour

4 Highlights & Hidden Gems of Venice

5 Drinks & Bites in Cannaregio Tour

6 City Escape: Murano Day Trip

7 Family Friendly Venice City Tour

8 Withlocals Your Way! - Venice City Tour

9 The History of Venice: San Marco Highlights Tour

10 Treasures of Venice: Renaissance Era Tour

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Private tours with locals in Venice

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The 10 Tastings of Venice

Off the beaten track in venice: dorsoduro tour, prosecco hills vespa tour, highlights & hidden gems of venice, drinks & bites in cannaregio tour, city escape: murano day trip, family friendly venice city tour, withlocals your way - venice city tour, explore venice with our incredible locals.

Learn about their personal stories and find out how you can explore Venice with locals

The History of Venice: San Marco Highlights Tour

Treasures of venice: renaissance era tour, drinks & bites in venice tour, historical venice jewish ghetto tour & vibrant cannaregio with lucia, venice off the beaten path: gardens & hidden gems with an art historian, majestic doge's palace & st. mark's basilica tour, the secret venice: history, characters & gossips, venice with art historian: 2 hours 100% personalized tour, find experiences by category.

Discover experiences based on your interest

• City highlights tours 19
• Off the beaten track tours 13
• Food tours 7
• Art & Culture tours 6
• Day trips 4
• Photo tours 1
• Wine & Beer tours 1

Travelers love our locals

What other guests say about our tours and locals

Wonderful Tour to Burano and Murano

"Claudia was fabulous and so informative. We made contact before coming to Italy. Being a Venetian, she had so much knowledge of the islands and Venice as well. We really enjoyed seeing both Burano and Murano from a locals perspective. The glass factory and demonstration was really fantastic. She was kind, humorous and had wonderful recommendations. We really enjoyed our day spent with Claudia and would book her again if in Venice."

Great intro to Venezia

"Loris provided a fantastic overview of Venice in three hours. We walked almost 20,000 steps with a lot of history and fun facts about the city. Loris was super helpful even before the trip on giving tips where to get delicious lunch / Cicchetti and how to get gondola without dealing with 10,000 tourists. Overall it was an enjoyable day with Loris and I would recommend him as fun, friendly, and accommodating tour guide to anyone. "

I thought I knew Venice…

"We booked a private 3 hour tour for a family of 4. I thought I knew quite a bit about Venetian history and culture, but was pleased that Elisabetta informed us of so much more about the former Republic’s past and present. She gave us excellent recommendations for ciccheti and dinner. She has a great sense of humor and appreciated our inquisitiveness. I highly recommend her."

Kind and resourceful Matteo!

"In spite of a clerical error by the ticket agents at the Basilica of San Marco, Matteo gave us guidance on how to see this beautiful church and it's amazing art. To make up for this error, not his fault, Matteo arranged for us to see another rarely seen Venitian treasure. In addition to that, he spent an extra 2 hours with us sharing his expansive knowledge of Venitian history. We so enjoyed his company that we invited him to join us for lunch! It has been nearly two weeks since we returned from Italy and we still speak of Matteo and how happy we are to have met him. "

Review about Roberto

"We really enjoyed our tour with Roberto. He was very knowledgeable about Venice and the area the tour covered. We saw so many things we didn't expect to see. It was a very unique experience. Roberto answered all our questions. It was an excellent value for the experience"

Great intri to Venetian food and culture.

"We were very pleased with Giada as our guide for a food tour. We arrived in Venice at 9am after a flight from New York. Our tour was at 6pm after a tiring day of traveling. Giada was extremely accommodating, especially since my husband recently developed a painful back problem. We walked slowly and took multiple breaks. We love food tours as an introduction to different cultures. Giada did a beautiful job mixing pleasure with interesting information about Venice. She chose very comfortable eating establishments that served delicious food. We really enjoyed her knowledge of languages and history. She was very easy to talk to and we felt like we made a new friend by the end of the evening. Giada also gave us suggestions on where to shop and eat. That was most helpful. I’d highly recommend Get Your Guide as well as Giada if you want a true local experience with some very digestible history thrown in. "

Great guide

"Giada was excellent. From the flexibility in our tour time when some of our travel arrangements got changed, to the completely personalized tour based on what we were looking for, she met and exceeded all expectations. She was very informative, very easy to talk to and made us feel very comfortable. I would highly recommend using her. "

Best tour guide ever!

"We had the best time with Alexandra! It was our first day in Venice and she was the perfect tour guide, very friendly and personable. She took us to several different little places to try local foods - we appreciated the opportunity to try new dishes. She is clearly well known and loved in the neighborhood and we were always warmly welcomed. We are allergic to gluten so she made sure the food was safe for us to eat. Best of all, Alexandra was so thoughtful, providing us with food and wine recommendations and sending us on our way with a local treat. We feel like we made a friend on our first day in Venice and we could not possibly be happier with our experience with Alexandra! We will definitely look her up on our next visit to Venice and we give her our highest recommendation. Grazie mille! "

Highly recommend - a highlight of our trip

"There are so many food tours and choosing the right one is so overwhelming. I highly recommend “Withlocals”. We had Claudia. She is outstanding! She took us to places we never would have gone to on our own and ordered all our food and wine to ensure we tried a variety of authentic Venetian foods with a nice wine pairing. And her knowledge of Venice…endless! She pointed out many historical sights and discussed its history. You could ask her anything. Add her charming personality and warm kind heart? She even went beyond her time with us. We traveled from Venice to Almafi Coast and this tour was without a doubt a highlight. A private tour with Claudia is worth every penny. You won’t be disappointed. I never leave reviews so that alone should tell you something. Claudia thank you for an amazing experience❣️"

Perfect tour with kids

"Romy was so perfect with my daughter. it was our first time in Venice and she helped us see the big and small things in the city without feeling like tourists. The scavenger hunt she did with my daughter was fun and engaging (and she had prizes for her) she got down on her level and made history Fun! thanks Romy - we miss Venice and you already! "

Enjoy the Best of the Venice Like a Local

Private & personalized tours in venice with a local.

When you hit the road and land in a new city like Venice, there's an exciting way to dive into its soul: personalized local tours. Forget the typical touristy routes – these tours are like having a local friend show you around all the cool spots.

Imagine having someone who lives and breathes Venice spill its secrets. That's what local guides bring to the table. They know the hidden alleys, the best bites, and stories that never made it to the guidebooks. Whether you're into munching through food tours, wandering the city's streets, or going off the beaten path, a local guide hooks you up with a private tour that's authentically Venice.

The best part? These tours are all about you. No herding in big groups or rushing through places you're not interested in. With private tours, you're the boss. Whether it's snapping pics at iconic landmarks, diving into history, or checking out the art scene, the tour is tuned to your vibes at your tempo.

But it doesn't stop at city limits. Day trips let you escape the urban jungle and explore nearby wonders. And if you're just setting foot in Venice, kickstart tours give you a taste of everything. Think of it as a crash course in Venice awesomeness, guided by a local who knows the city like the back of their hand.

So, next time you're in Venice, ditch the ordinary. Grab a local tour and unlock the city's real magic – the stories, flavors, and places that make it uniquely Venice. Get ready to explore like a local!

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• Off The Beaten Track Tours in Venice
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• Art & Culture Tours in Venice
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• Tours in Venice

Venice Tours

Discover the hidden gems of venice.

From the iconic Doge's Palace to the stunning St. Mark Basilica our expert guides, we will make your vacation in Venice one to remember.

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Skip the line, exclusive care, master storytellers, our venice experiences.

Skip-the-Line: Doge's Palace & St. Mark's Basilica Fully Guided Tour

Enjoy Skip-the-Line Access to St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge's Palace on this tour combining all the sights and sounds of our standard Best of Venice walking tour and the beautiful intrigue of the Doge's Palace.

Murano & Burano Islands Guided Small-Group Tour by Private Boat

Private Tour: Murano Glassblowing Experience from Venice with Prosecco

Enjoy venice with city wonders.

Venice could be the one place on earth where the dream matches up to reality. Embarking on an exploration of the Floating City is an experience not to be missed. Whether you’re traveling by water taxi or walking through the city’s famous St. Mark’s Square, you’ll be completely beguiled by Venice’s charm and mysteries.

Our Unique Tours

You’ll experience Venice exactly as you want to with our many tours. From St. Mark Basilica to the iconic Doge's Palce and tours that focus specifically on Venetian attractions, the choice is yours!

Exploring Venice

Once the travel bug has bitten, explore the rest of the lagoon  with a day trip from Venice . Take a boat to the Venetian island of Murano where assassins ensured that the elite craftspersons of the island never gave away their secret glassmaking methods. Or visit colorful Burano where legend has it that the foamy splashes of a mermaid inspired the local signorinas to create their intricate lace veils. 

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Which Venice will you discover?

INTRODUCTORY TOURS

These tours are intended for first time visitors who wish to become acquainted with Venice’s main sights and landmarks, gaining an overall picture of its history and modern-day life.

IN DEPTH TOURS

Art, in all forms has been a unique ingredient of Venice’s success. Discover the magnificence of the grand Venetian architects and painters. For the ones that live in the now the contemporary art, contemporary architecture and the truly authentic glass studios where masters are at work.

UNUSUAL TOURS

These tours are intended for visitors who wish to experience areas and sites rarely seen by tourists, in both urban locations and beyond. Take this opportunity to discover truly authentic art studios, furnaces and lagoon islands with us.

Venice is a fragile city, therefore we support sustainable tourism

My name is Hélène Salvadori and I have been an authorized and registered tourist guide of Venice and its heritage since the 2000 after been certified by the Veneto Region. Since 2000 I am a member of Venice Association of Registered Tourist Guides. I am an associate of Venezia Arte, Best Venice Guides, Venice Sustainable Tourism and Ca’ Foscari Alumni.

Why a guide in Venice?

A Guide in Venice means a friend in Venice. A guide in Venice means opening yourself up to lear the secrets of this ancient city from locals who live and breathe the laguna. What does the local mean to us? It means we’re in the know. As residents who live and work in the city we carry with us its complex history and rich traditions…

• Stories from Venice
• Is Venice 1600 years old? The history of Venice is somehow difficult to unravel, as in its written form this was drawn up late and in a fragmentary fashion. It is interesting to notice that the archeological excavation findings do not always chronologically correspond to the written reports. In fact, the remains prove that rich hubs were already settled on various areas of the lagoon. 

Sightseeing and enjoying  Venice  with our  walks  and  tours . Come and let Venice to be yours.

Planning a tour to Italy? Then you can’t miss Venice, a major destination for your tours . Today as yesterday Venice still draws visitors from every where, all of them wishing to experience its elusive dream-like ambience: it remains a city without wheels, built on rafts on wooden piles, located in the middle of a vast lagoon and still looking as it did centuries ago. Part eastern, part western, half land, half sea, Venice fits into no convenient category of place. It is bathed in mystery and wonder through the tales of countless visitors and travellers, each one adding some of his own, trying to seize the city’s indefinable nature. The millenary history of Venice then unfolds before you through an unparalleled variety of centuries-old palaces and their great array of architecture and world class fine art collections.

But how to visit and get the best of it? First you have to fit into the particular texture of the city: join in on your own or as part of a small group or party and walk around unhurriedly through the maze of waterways and alleys. Second, let a professional guide show you around the landmarks, tell you the stories of the past and bring you into the living scenes of the present. A gondola gliding on a canal, a grocery market in full swing, a bar where you’ll sip a glass of wine and taste local food, a workshop to see how expert artisans produce their traditional handcrafts and varied works. This is what you can experience with our Venice Tours; a city bustling with the joy of unexpected sights and sounds to be experienced at a walking, human and friendly pace.

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The Best Venice Tours To Take in 2024 and Why

Sean Finelli Last Updated: January 18, 2024

Whether you’re visiting Venice to see the beautiful St. Mark’s Basilica, explore the Doge’s Palace, or just relax and enjoy a gondola ride, there are a ton of fantastic sights, activities, and dishes to try. In fact, there are so many amazing things to do in the Floating City, it may be difficult to choose. In this guide, we share the best Venice tours to help you decide which tour is best for you.

Pro Tip: Planning your trip to Venice? Bookmark this post in your browser so you can easily find it when you’re in the city. See our comprehensive  guide to Venice  for more planning resources, our  top Venice tours  for a memorable trip, and  how to see Venice in a day .

Should You Take a Tour in Venice?

Yes, without a doubt! Venice has its well-known sights but it also has a lot of hidden gems to discover that only your knowledgeable local guide will know to show you. Your guide will also bring the city to life with interesting stories and historical facts.

A tour of Venice will certainly elevate your experience as you explore new food in the best places, get to know the city on a deeper level, and maybe even meet new friends on the way. Don’t take our word for it. See what our clients have said about taking a Venice tour:

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  Venice Guide for more info.

The Best Tours of Venice To Take

The Italian city of Venice is a popular destination steeped in history. There are plenty of unique things to do, great food to try, and top attractions to explore from St. Mark’s Basilica to the Doge’s Palace, Rialto Bridge, and the Islands of Murano and Burano. In this article, we share our best Venice tours for an unforgettable experience of the Floating City.

Ultimate Venice in a Day with Murano and Burano

• Venice in a Day with Gondola Ride

St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace Half-Day Tour with Gondola Ride

Venice local evening food tour in cannaregio, murano and burano in a half-day boat tour, small group dining experience at a local home in venice.

Seeing Venice in a day is a worthy goal, but there’s so much to explore beyond the main island. If you want to pack in as much as possible on your trip to Venice, then this 9-hour tour is ideal for you.

Start with a guided tour and skip-the-line access to St. Mark’s Basilica, also known as the Church of Gold. You’ll see why the moment you step inside! Next, you’ll head to the infamous Doge’s Palace where you’ll also skip the lines to see what is probably the world’s most expensive staircase, thanks to the gold ceiling. Learn about the courtroom where verdicts were handed down and see the largest room in Italy.

No trip to Venice is complete without a gondola ride, so we’ve included that on this day tour as well. And after a break for lunch on your own, you’ll then meet up with your small group and guide to take a private water taxi out to the islands of Murano and Burano. This is the most ideal way to see Venice’s other islands as the public water bus is hot, crowded, and slow.

You’ll see a live glassblowing demonstration up close in Murano, done the same way it’s been done for literally hundreds of years. And in Burano, you’ll see an intricate lacemaking demonstration before having time to take pics of all the colorful houses here.

Highlights:

• 9-hour tour
• Skip-the-line guided tour of St. Mark’s Basilica
• Skip-the-line guided tour of Doge’s Palace
• Go on a traditional gondola ride
• Private water taxi to Murano and Burano
• Glassblowing and lacemaking demonstrations

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if a Tours of Murano and Burano are Worth it

Venice in a Day Combo Tour With Gondola Ride

If you want to see the most important attractions in the main city of Venice, this tour is your best bet. You’ll see everything from St. Mark’s Basilica to the Doge’s Palace and areas beyond Rialto Bridge. Grab your favorite walking shoes and clear your schedule for this 6-hour tour, because you’re going to see Venice in a day .

Prepare yourself for breathtaking sights like St. Mark’s Basilica, also known as the “Church of Gold,” and the iconic Rialto Bridge from a few vantage points. Your guide will explain the history of these amazing sights and show you hidden gems in the surrounding neighborhoods.

You’ll also get to skip the line and go behind the scenes at the Doge’s Palace, where powerful magistrates ruled until the late 18th century. You’ll explore the Bridge of Sighs, as well as some prison cells, not to mention the beautiful art and design in the rest of the palace.

Of course, you’ll also be able to check a Venice gondola ride off your bucket list. Afterward, you can ask your guide for some amazing suggestions on where to grab a bite to eat, or just relax knowing that you’ve had a day full of unrivaled culture and history.

• 6-hour tour
• See the highlights of Venice in a day
• Skip-the-line guided tour of St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace
• Walking tour of Venice’s quieter areas and hidden gems
• Traditional Gondola ride

Not ready to book a tour? Check out how to see Venice in a day .

For anyone who only has part of a day in Venice or who prefers shorter guided tours, we’ve created the perfect tour for you! This 3.5-hour tour gives you skip-the-line entry to both of Venice’s top attractions at St. Mark’s Square. You’ll start at the impressive basilica where you’ll see the tomb of St. Mark.

Next, head to the Doge’s Palace to explore a little of Venice’s darker history. The doges at this palace ruled Venice until the late 18th century and had a reputation of tyranny that helped make Venice the powerhouse of the region. You’ll head to the dungeons to see the original cells and the famous Bridge of Sighs.

Along the way, you’ll also get to enjoy incredible art and the most famous rooms (and stairs) at this palace. To top it all off, you’ll have a 30-minute gondola ride along the Venetian canals. It’s the perfect way to end your tour of Venice’s highlights.

• 3.5-hour tour
• Traditional gondola ride

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our guide to the Best Tours to Take of Murano and Burano and Why

If you want to immerse yourself in Italian culture, food is one of the best ways. On this 2.5-hour Venice food tour , your English-speaking foodie guide will take you around the city to try authentic Venetian food and drink.

Enjoy cicchetti (savory snacks) along with a glass of wine at bacari , the local wine bars. The tradition of pairing the two goes back centuries. People would visit the bacari at all hours of the day and eat cicchetti along with their drinks to ensure they don’t get too tipsy.

Cicchetti isn’t the only thing you’ll try, you’ll also enjoy some of the city’s best pasta, along with prosecco, Campari spritz, and gelato. This tour also includes a stop at a bacari which is a traditional Venetian wine bar. All in all, you’ll learn a lot and taste a lot, and hopefully, make some new travel friends!

• 2.5-hour tour
• Short walking tour of Cannaregio
• Sample assorted cicchetti dishes
• Visit a bacari wine bar
• Enjoy a traditional sit-down dinner
• Stop for gelato

There’s more to Venice than just Venice. In fact, there are 118 islands that make up the whole area of Venice. If you’re up for an adventure, then head out to Murano and Burano to see some truly historic crafts.

The cheapest way to the islands is to book a ride on the public water bus, but it’s slow, and often hot and crowded. For a better experience, you’ll appreciate this tour that includes a private water boat to get you to both islands quickly. Best of all, your tour guide will accompany you and tell you all about the islands as you travel.

A stop in Murano will take you to a live glassblowing demonstration. This tradition dates back to the 5th century, but out of concern about fires, these craftsmen were moved from the main island to Murano where they’ve continued traditions for centuries. Watch them up close and feel the heat from the furnaces!

Next you’ll head to Burano. You’ve probably seen amazing Instagram photos of these colorful houses here. And now you’ll get to take selfies of your own! In addition, you’ll get an exclusive stop at a lacemaking demonstration that the public doesn’t have access to. No doubt that a trip to these islands make up one of the best Venice tours.

• 4-hour tour
• Round-trip transportation on a private water boat
• Live glassblowing demonstration in Murano
• Live lacemaking demonstration in Burano

One of the best ways to truly immerse yourself in a culture is through its food. Restaurants, cafes, and markets are great places, but most of the meals we eat throughout our lives are outside these public spaces and instead in the home.

To be invited into a local home, taught their cooking style, family recipes, and personal twists on classics, this is one of the most fabulous treats any traveler can have.

We have teamed up with a group of local cooks who welcome you into their homes for an unforgettable experience. Your host will welcome you in with a glass of wine, then take a deep dive into Italian cuisine during a small group cooking demonstration for you and your fellow foodies. Watch as your host, equipped with years of experience, crafts one of the dishes featured in your 3-course meal. You’ll witness firsthand the perfected combination of stirring, seasoning, and simmering that goes into authentic Italian cooking. Throughout the interactive demo, your host will also unveil their well-guarded culinary secrets and unique tips and tricks that real Italian nonnas have passed down.

It is a unique and immersive experience that foodies and travelers will love, and one of the best Venice tours we have.

• Aperitivo including prosecco and nibbles
• 3-course menu including starter, pasta and desserts
• Drinks including water, wine and coffee
• Cooking demonstration
• Small Group experience with a certified host
• Enjoy warm Italian hospitality
• A Warm Welcome to an Italian Home

Where To Stay in Venice

Despite the size of this little island, there are endless hotel options to choose from. We’ve picked the best neighborhoods and hotels to stay in whether you prefer Italian luxury or quiet serenity—or both!

About Sean Finelli

Sean is a co-founder and owner of The Tour Guy and its subsidiary The Roman Guy. He studied finance and statistics, but that is his "Dr. Jekyll" side! His "Mr. Hyde" is in love with travel, art, history, and culture. Sean has read libraries of historical text and believes that all internet content should come from books. A practice he follows!

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The Perfect 48 Hours in Venice, Italy

Caitlyn Johnston

https://www.foratravel.com/guides/6DAKVB/the-perfect-48-hours-in-venice-italy-caitlyn-johnston

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A city on the water, Venice is a unique destination during your Italian vacation. Walking next to canals instead of streets, amazing history and delicious food make Venice a must-see spot. With proper planning, you can make the most out of two days in this romantic city!

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Where to stay in Venice, Italy

Sina centurion palace.

A c ontemporary hotel with stylish rooms overlooking the Grand Canal.

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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Breakfast daily.

The St. Regis Venice

Featuring idyllic views of the Grand Canal, this ultra-luxe Venetian-style hotel features beautifully appointed rooms plus a bar and two restaurants.

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Ca' di Dio

Upscale hotel in a building from the 13th-century with luxe rooms and suites offering canal views.

Welcome amenity.

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Venice V Hotel

Beachfront hotel with ocean views and industrial-chic studios just off the Venice Beach Boardwalk.

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Aman Venice

Luxury property set in a 16th-century palace with elegant rooms near the Grand Canal.

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Things to do in Venice, Italy

Visit Doge's Palace and the Bridge of Sighs. Take in the incredible Venetian Gothic architecture throughout the palace. This building served as the political and administrative center of the Venetian Republic for centuries. Doges were elected rulers of Venice and this palace holds government offices, courtrooms and prisons. The famous Bridge of Sighs is located inside the palace and if you blink, you’ll miss it as you don’t even realize you are crossing the bridge from the inside. It connects the palace to the prison and as legend has it, it is the last time prisoners caught a glimpse of Venice before being incarcerated. There are amazing art masterpieces throughout the palace as well. I would recommend spending about two hours to visit the entire palace. You can pre-purchase tickets or purchase them at the door. The Library at San Marco Square is one of Italy’s oldest public libraries and its collection reflects the city’s role as the center of trade, scholarship and artistic innovation during the Renaissance era and beyond. Don’t miss this stunning library during your trip to Venice! The Original Glass Factory on Murano Island is a fascinating experience. For only five Euro (at the time of writing), you can see glassblowing at its finest. We were blown away (no pun intended) by their technique and quick creativity during our tour. Murano is a 20-50-minute water taxi ride depending on where you are in Venice, or a private taxi can certainly be arranged for you. VIsit the Venetian cemetery island. This peaceful place only needs about 20 minutes of your time. You can visit it after your visit to Murano, but it is certainly worth a peek. Visit the Basilica di Sanata Maria Della Salute and climb to the top of Campanile di San Marco for a fantastic view of the entire city. The ornate church offers jaw-dropping views, while climbing to the top is an experience like no other. Take a gondola ride! No trip to Venice is complete without a gondolier. There are tons located throughout the city — however, I found the most relaxing times were in the small canals instead of the grand canal. Do some shopping on the Rialto Bridge and take some iconic pictures. Eat gelato! No Italian trip is complete without tasting some local gelato. Look for the round tins with lids for a more authentic experiencem— but it is all delicious!

Places to eat & drink in Venice, Italy

Don’t sleep on the breakfast buffet at The Hilton Stucky Hotel. It is a boat ride away from the mainland of Venice, but their overflow of food could reach the main island. Think chocolate fountains, fruit, pastries, omelets, pancakes, desert, mimosas and so much more! Drink a bellini from the home of the bellini at Harry’s Bar . Prepare for a wait — it isn’t the largest restaurant in Venice — and keep your eyes peeled for the tiny door, but Google Maps isn’t wrong! Brunch Café has an amazing breakfast menu, but be prepared to wait in line to get a table. It has an option for everyone in your party. Caffè Florian has an amazing lunch/apertif atmosphere with live music on the famous Piazza San Marco. The food is limited but delicious and the drinks are spectacular. And no, they don’t frown on you if you order a cappuccino in the afternoon. El Magazen has typical Venetian food and is off the beaten path a bit. M'Art in the Venice Venice Hotel is worth a lunch or aperitif to experience an icon in the city of Venice. Visit Amo for coffee or cocktails near the Rialto Bridge. Zanze XVI has an incredible tasting menu. Be sure to book reservations well in advance. Caffè Lavena is one of the oldest coffee shops in Venice. Trattoria alle Burchielle is a family-run Italian spot within the city.

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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Venice . Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, Adventure Travel in El Calafate, Argentina .

The Ultimate Guide: How To Travel In Venice, Italy Like A Pro

• Last updated May 30, 2024
• Difficulty Beginner

• Category Travel

Venice, Italy. A place of gondolas gliding through winding canals, stunning historic architecture, and enchanting carnival masks. The floating city has long been a dream destination for travelers around the world. But amidst the throngs of tourists, it's easy to feel overwhelmed and miss out on the true essence of Venice. Fear not! In this ultimate guide, we'll share insider tips and tricks on how to navigate the city like a pro, exploring hidden gems, indulging in authentic cuisine, and experiencing the magic of Venice in all its glory. So grab your map and prepare to discover the secrets that will elevate your trip to Venice to a whole new level. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this guide will ensure you make the most of your time in this captivating Italian gem. Get ready to travel like a pro in Venice, Italy!

What You'll Learn

Getting around venice: transportation options and tips, discovering venice's top attractions: must-see sights and activities, exploring venice's unique venetian cuisine and food culture, navigating venice's canal system: tips for taking gondolas and vaporettos.

Venice, Italy is a unique and enchanting city that is best explored on foot or by boat. With its canals and narrow alleyways, traditional modes of transportation like cars and buses are not practical in this city. However, there are several transportation options available to help you navigate Venice and make the most of your trip. Here are some transportation options and tips for getting around Venice:

Water Buses (Vaporettos):

Water buses, also known as vaporettos, are a popular and convenient mode of transportation in Venice. They operate on several routes that cover different areas of the city, including the Grand Canal. Vaporettos are similar to buses, except they travel on water. You can purchase tickets at the ticket booths located at the water bus stops, or you can buy them in advance online. It is recommended to get a travel pass that allows unlimited travel within a selected duration, such as a 24-hour, 48-hour, or 72-hour pass.

Water Taxis:

If you prefer a more private and direct mode of transportation, you can opt for a water taxi. Water taxis in Venice are like regular taxis, but they operate on water. They can take you directly to your destination, and you can hire them for a specific trip or by the hour. Water taxis are more expensive than vaporettos but offer a more personalized and convenient experience.

No trip to Venice is complete without taking a ride on a traditional gondola. Gondolas are iconic symbols of Venice and offer a romantic and leisurely way to explore the city's waterways. Gondolas can be hired for a set period of time, and the gondolier will navigate through the canals, providing you with a unique perspective of the city. It is important to negotiate the price and duration of the ride before getting on the gondola to avoid any misunderstandings.

Venice is a pedestrian-friendly city, and walking is often the best way to get around, especially in the narrow streets and alleyways known as "calle." Walking allows you to discover hidden gems and stumble upon charming cafes and shops. It is also a great way to immerse yourself in the city's unique atmosphere. Keep in mind that Venice can be crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons, so be prepared for slower walking speeds and plan your routes accordingly.

Traghetti are gondolas that serve as public transportation across the Grand Canal at specific crossing points. These crossings are fewer in number compared to regular vaporetto stops, but they provide a quicker way to cross the canal compared to using bridges. Traghetti are especially useful if you need to travel between specific points on opposite sides of the Grand Canal quickly.

Bicycles are not commonly used as a mode of transportation in Venice due to the city's layout and lack of cycling infrastructure. The narrow streets and crowded areas make it challenging to navigate on a bicycle. Additionally, there are many stairs and bridges that would require carrying the bicycle, which can be inconvenient. It is best to leave bicycles for other cities in Italy where cycling is more feasible.

Luggage Transportation:

If you are traveling with heavy luggage, it can be challenging to navigate the city's bridges and narrow streets. In this case, you can consider using a luggage transportation service. These services will pick up your luggage from your hotel or a specific location and deliver it to your next destination in Venice or even to the Venice airport. This allows you to explore the city without the burden of carrying your bags.

When getting around Venice, it is important to be aware of the transportation options available and choose the mode that suits your needs and preferences. Whether you choose to travel by water bus, water taxi, gondola, or on foot, getting around Venice can be a fun and memorable experience. Remember to plan your routes in advance, consider the time of day and the number of tourists, and enjoy the unique charm and beauty of this captivating city.

The Ultimate Guide on How to Travel to Lordaeron Keep

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Venice, Italy is a city unlike any other. With its breathtaking canals, stunning architecture, and rich history, it is no wonder why millions of tourists flock to this city every year. If you're planning a trip to Venice, there are certain attractions that you absolutely must see. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of Venice's top attractions and provide you with a guide on how to travel in Venice to make the most of your visit.

First and foremost, no trip to Venice would be complete without a visit to St. Mark's Square. This iconic square is the heart of the city and is home to several must-see attractions. The most famous of these is St. Mark's Basilica, a stunning cathedral that showcases the extravagant Byzantine architecture. Be sure to marvel at the golden mosaics and intricate marble floors inside the basilica. Another attraction in St. Mark's Square is the Doge's Palace, a palace that used to be the residence of the Doge of Venice. Explore the opulent rooms and cross the Bridge of Sighs, which connects the palace to the prison.

One of the best ways to explore Venice is by taking a gondola ride. Gondolas are traditional Venetian boats that are perfect for navigating the city's canals. Hop on a gondola and let the gondolier take you on a romantic journey through the waterways of Venice. As you glide along the canals, you'll pass by stunning buildings and breathtaking bridges. While gondola rides can be pricey, they are an experience you won't want to miss.

If you're interested in art, be sure to visit the Accademia Gallery. This gallery houses a collection of Italian Renaissance art, including works by artists such as Bellini, Titian, and Tintoretto. Be sure to spend some time admiring the masterpieces and learning about the artists who created them. Another art attraction in Venice is the Peggy Guggenheim Collection. Located in the former home of Peggy Guggenheim, this modern art museum features works by artists such as Picasso, Pollock, and Dalí. Walk through the rooms and admire the eclectic collection of contemporary art.

For a unique shopping experience, visit the Rialto Market. This bustling market is filled with stalls selling fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies. Take a stroll through the market and immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of Venice. Be sure to sample some of the local fare, such as fresh seafood and delicious gelato. You can also purchase souvenirs and gifts to bring back home.

To maximize your time in Venice, it is important to plan your transportation ahead of time. The city is best explored on foot, as many of the attractions are within walking distance of each other. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to do a lot of walking. If you need to travel longer distances, water buses, known as vaporettos, are a convenient option. These public boats operate on the city's canals and can take you to various locations throughout Venice. Be sure to purchase a vaporetto pass, as it will allow you to travel unlimitedly within a certain time frame.

In conclusion, Venice is a city full of incredible attractions that are sure to leave you in awe. From the stunning architecture of St. Mark's Basilica to the art collections of the Accademia Gallery, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Be sure to take a gondola ride and explore the city's canals, and don't forget to visit the Rialto Market for a unique shopping experience. By planning your transportation and maximizing your time, you can make the most of your visit to Venice. So pack your bags and get ready to discover all that this amazing city has to offer.

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When it comes to food culture, Venice has a lot to offer. From fresh seafood to traditional Italian dishes with a Venetian twist, this city is a culinary paradise. Exploring the local cuisine is an essential part of any trip to Venice, and here are some tips to help you make the most of your culinary adventure.

Start your day with a traditional Venetian breakfast

Venetians like to keep their breakfast light and simple. Try a classic cappuccino or espresso paired with a pastry like a croissant or frittelle, a traditional Venetian sweet treat made with yeast, raisins, and lemon zest. You can find these breakfast options at local cafes or bakeries, known as "pasticcerias."

Indulge in seafood at lunchtime

Being a city surrounded by the Adriatic Sea, Venice is famous for its fresh seafood. Head to a local "osteria" or "trattoria" for a traditional seafood lunch. Start with a plate of "crudi di pesce," which is a selection of raw seafood like shrimp, scallops, and fish. Follow it up with a plate of "spaghetti alle vongole," a classic Venetian pasta dish made with clams, garlic, and white wine. Don't forget to pair your meal with a glass of local white wine, such as Prosecco or Soave.

Embrace the Venetian cicchetti culture for an afternoon snack

Similar to Spanish tapas, cicchetti are small bites that Venetians enjoy with a glass of wine or spritz in the late afternoon. They can range from simple crostini topped with local seafood or cured meats to more elaborate dishes like Sarde in Saor, marinated sardines with onions, raisins, and pine nuts. Explore the small bars and bacari around the city, and sample a variety of delicious cicchetti along the way.

Don't miss out on Venetian wine and aperitivo culture

Spend your evenings sipping wine and indulging in aperitivo, the Italian version of happy hour. Head to a local wine bar, known as "enoteca," and try different varieties of wines produced in the Veneto region, such as Valpolicella or Amarone. Order a spritz, a popular Venetian aperitif made with Prosecco, Aperol, and a splash of soda. Accompany your drinks with a selection of cheese, olives, and cured meats.

End your day with a traditional Venetian dinner

For dinner, treat yourself to a traditional Venetian meal. Start with a Venetian antipasto platter, which typically includes a variety of local cured meats, cheeses, and marinated vegetables. Then, move on to a "risotto al nero di seppia," a famous Venetian black squid ink risotto. Finish off your meal with a classic dessert like "tiramisu" or "pandoro," a sweet Christmas bread typically served during the holiday season.

Venice's unique food culture and cuisine are sure to leave a lasting impression on any traveler. So, make sure to immerse yourself in the local food scene and savor the flavors of this magnificent city. Buon appetito!

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Venice, Italy, is a city like no other, known for its charming canals and romantic gondolas. With its absence of roads and cars, the primary mode of transportation in Venice is through its extensive canal system. If you're planning a trip to Venice and want to make the most of your visit, here are some tips for navigating the city's canal system, whether you choose to take a gondola or use the vaporettos, the local water buses.

Gondolas: The Ultimate Venetian Experience

Taking a gondola ride in Venice is a must-do experience. Here's what you need to know before hopping on a gondola:

• Gondola Stations: Gondolas can be found at various stations throughout the city, with the most popular one located near St. Mark's Square. Look for the signs or ask locals for directions to the nearest gondola station.
• Negotiating Prices: Gondolas are privately operated, and prices can vary. Be prepared to negotiate the price with the gondolier before getting on board. Typically, a gondola ride can cost around €80-€100 for 40 minutes, but this can change depending on the time of day and demand.
• Sharing a Gondola: If you're on a budget or prefer a shared experience, you can also opt to share a gondola with other passengers. This can reduce the cost per person but may mean that the ride duration is shorter.
• Exploring Hidden Canals: If you want to explore the quieter, lesser-known canals of Venice, consider hiring a gondola from a less touristy area. This way, you can enjoy a more peaceful experience away from the crowds.

Vaporettos: Practical Transportation for Exploring Venice

Vaporettos are the public water buses that serve as Venice's main form of public transportation. Here are some tips for using vaporettos:

• Vaporetto Routes: Study the vaporetto routes in advance to familiarize yourself with the various lines and stops. You can find this information at the main vaporetto stops, online, or in guidebooks.
• Vaporetto Passes: Consider purchasing a vaporetto pass if you plan to use the water buses frequently during your stay. These passes allow unlimited travel within a specific timeframe, such as 24, 48, or 72 hours. They can save you money compared to buying individual tickets for each ride.
• Ticket Validation: Before boarding the vaporetto, make sure to validate your ticket at the designated machines located near the docking area. Failure to validate your ticket may result in a fine if checked by inspectors on board.
• Vaporetto Etiquette: Be mindful of the local etiquette when using vaporettos. Allow people to disembark before boarding and avoid blocking the entrance. Be prepared for potentially crowded conditions during peak hours and have your belongings close to you to avoid pickpocketing incidents.

General Tips for Canal Navigation

Here are some additional tips to help you navigate Venice's canal system:

• Map and GPS: Carry a detailed map of Venice or use a GPS navigation app to help you find your way. The winding canals and narrow streets can be confusing, so having a reliable guide can make your exploration more efficient.
• Timing: Consider the time of day when planning your canal trips. Morning and late afternoon can be less crowded, allowing you to enjoy a more peaceful experience. Avoid peak hours when vaporettos and gondolas are packed with commuters or tourists.
• Comfortable Shoes: Wear comfortable shoes as you'll likely do a lot of walking and standing while exploring the city. The streets and bridges of Venice can be uneven, so choose footwear that provides stable support.
• Canal Crossings: Venice has over 400 bridges, and crossing them can be a part of your canal navigation. Be prepared for occasional bridge closures due to maintenance work or high water, and use alternative routes when necessary.
• Learn Local Phrases: While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, learning a few Italian phrases can be helpful when interacting with locals or asking for directions.

Navigating the canal system in Venice can be a unique and enjoyable experience. Whether you choose the romantic charm of a gondola or the convenience of vaporettos, following these tips will help you make the most of your time in Venice and ensure a smooth and memorable journey through the city's canals.

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Frequently asked questions.

One of the best ways to travel within Venice is by taking water buses, known as vaporettos. They operate on various routes and are a convenient and affordable option. Additionally, you can also explore the city on foot, as most places are easily accessible by walking.

Apart from vaporettos and walking, you can also consider taking a water taxi. These are more expensive but offer a more private and direct way of getting around the city. You can also opt for a gondola ride, although this is more of a tourist activity rather than a practical means of transportation.

The canals in Venice can be confusing to navigate at first, but there are signs placed at various points to guide you. It's also helpful to have a map or use a GPS navigation app on your phone. Don't hesitate to ask locals for directions if you're unsure.

If you plan to use the vaporettos frequently during your stay in Venice, it's advisable to purchase a transport pass. There are options available for different durations, such as 24 hours, 48 hours, or even weekly passes, which offer unlimited travel on the vaporettos.

Yes, you can easily visit nearby islands like Murano, Burano, and Lido while in Venice. The vaporettos have routes that take you to these islands, and you can explore their unique charms, such as Murano's glass-blowing factories or Burano's colorful houses.

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• Melissa Carey Author Reviewer Traveller

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17 Fun Things To Do In Venice Italy [2 day Itinerary Included]

We took the train 4 hours from Rome to Venice on our 3 month backpacking trip around Europe and we got 2 gorgeous days with the sun shining! We couldn’t wait to explore this iconic city and to get out on the water. There are so many great things to do in Venice, Italy.

We loved Venice, the vibe, the canals, it is such a beautiful city.

Table of Contents

Overview Of Venice

The city is located on 118 islands that are separated by 150 canals. It really does feel like a city on the water! A lot of the islands are connected by 400 footbridges while some of them like Burano and Murano you have to take a boat to get to them in the Venetian Lagoon.

There are no cars in Venice which was amazing. Knox commented how quiet the city was without cars!

You will only find four bridges that cross the Grand Canal. And won’t miss the 400+ gondolas that are floating through the canals all around the city.

Venice is magical. There really isn’t a better way to describe it. I know people have complained about it being too busy or smelly. But when we were there at the end of March/beginning of April it was perfect.

Not busy, not smelly and with the sun out it was perfect weather to be walking around the city.

That being said if you are going to visit Venice when it is busy we definitely recommend you book your tickets in advance and get as many skip the line tickets as you can. The worst thing to be doing in Venice would be standing in line!

Getting To Venice

We took the train into Venice. It was a very easy process and was a beautiful ride coming into the city. Be sure to check your trains stops and make sure you stay on until you reach the actual island.

Once you reach the island you can walk from the train station right across a bridge and into Venice. We purposely picked a vacation rental that was within walking distance to the train station.

That meant we weren’t close to the main attractions but the island isn’t that big so it was no problem walking anywhere we wanted to go.

Things To Do In Venice

Grand canal “tour”.

I have tours in quotes since this wasn’t a paid tour. This was us riding on the Grand Canal public water bus (vaporetto). It was packed with people using it as a bus to get around Venice.

We paid attention and quickly grabbed the seats at the front and got out my phone to open the Rick Steves Grand Tour app on my phone . His tour lasts 45 minutes – starting from the Piazzale Roma and bringing you just past St Marks Square.

It talks about places like the Basilica di Santa Maria Della Salute which is a beautiful church that was built in the 17th century to commemorate the end of a devastating outbreak of the plague that killed thousands of Venetians.

The tour was well done and helped us understand what we were saying as we were riding down the canal. If you don’t want to stay on for the whole tour you can hop on and off at any of the stops the boat makes.

St Marks Square

Next up we headed to St Marks Square (Piazza San Marco). We got our Rick Steves app again and read through some of the highlights of St Marks Square. While we were doing that we noticed all of the people sitting out have a drink in the square. We definitely wanted to try that!

We stopped at Caffè Florian. It was super expensive! But it was an experience so it was worth it. We got overpriced drinks and snacks and looked out over the square as we listed to the orchestra playing from the restaurant.

You could also choose to tour the Doge’s Palace when you are here and see the Ponte dei Sospiri or Bridge of Sighs. We figured with our kids they wouldn’t be into it. But if you like seeing Gothic palaces that were built in the 14th century you should do it!

**Fun Fact: The Bridge of Sighs is a small enclosed bridge that connects the Doge’s Palace to the adjacent prison. Legend has it that the bridge earned its name from the prisoners who, as they crossed it, would sigh at the sight of Venice for the last time before being locked up.

Another option would be to climb to the top of the Campanile di San Marco (bell tower) when you visit Saint Marks square.

Gondola Ride

We of course had to do a gondola ride! They only allow up to 5 people on 1 boat so luckily Nana and Boppa were with us and could take 2 kids!

It was an over priced but fun experience and we are glad we did it! At the time it was $85 for a 35 minute trip for up to 5 people. We tried to see if we could do 6 with the 4 kids but they said no they would lose their license.

I mean you can’t come to Venice and not do the Gondola Ride so be sure you budget for it. Now that we did it we won’t have to do it again but I am glad we did and that the kids got this experience.

It was also fun to explore the canals and see some areas of Venice you can only see on the Gondolas.

Rialto Market

We started the day with a trip to the fish market at the Rialto Market. It was quite the experience. There are all kinds of different fish just sitting out. I mean fish we have never seen before!

Plus there is blood on the ground from the fish and a definite fishy smell! Once of the crazy things is that when the market is done they clean it all up and you could barely tell it was there.

We didn’t buy anything . . . but I have to say I would love to hire someone to bring us to the market and help us pick things out. Then bring us back to our place to cook a delicious meal from the market.

Osteria al Squero

After that we headed to Osteria al Squero to watch the workers fix and build gondolas across the canal at Squero Di San Trovaso.

Scavenger Hunt

If you are traveling with kids you won’t want to miss this scavenger hunt around the city. It was a great way to teach the kids some history of Venice while making it fun and interactive. Plus we visited a couple of places we may not have found on our own during the hunt!

Our guide had a map and clues and split us into 2 teams so we could see who found the clues first and answered the questions correctly.

It was education and fun! And brought to our attention some different things in the city we may not have noticed on our own.

Learn more here.

Libreria Acqua Alta

We found this stop on our scavenger hunt and I am so glad we did! It backs up to one of the canals and there is a book staircase you can climb up to look out over the canal.

The store has a gondola in it filled with books and books everywhere. It can get very busy and you may have to wait in line to get in.

Spiderman Movie Spots

If your kids are Spiderman fans they probably remember when Spiderman came to Venice. If that is the case be sure to stop to see the following two spots:

• Santa Maria Formosa Church
• Ponte de l’Arsenal o del Paradiso

The Rialto Bridge

Grab a picture on the famous Rialto Bridge! This is the iconic bridge in Venice that goes over the Grand Canal. If you spend any time in Venice you will most likely catch your self walking over this bridge a few times.

Take note the bridge is called The Ponte di Rialto in Italian.

Learn To Row As A Venetian

This is another activity our friends from Zula Life did when they visited and they said it was a blast! It is one thing to take a gondola ride but to be able to learn how to row that is awesome!

You can learn more about learning how to row as a Venetian here.

Carnival Mask Making

Zula Life also did this activity and said it was a great experience. There are masks stores all over Venice that you can buy masks at. But being able to make your own would be quite an experience!

You can book your own Carnival Mask Making class here.

Teatro la Fenice

If you are into Opera and/or architecture you are going to want to check out this Opera House. You can either do a tour or you can opt to come and see a show here. The Opera House has a long history of being destroyed or damaged by fire and rebuilt.

Burano Island

We only had a little bit of time to see Murano or Burano. We ended up going with Burano because I wanted to see all of the colorful buildings!

To get to the island we had to get on the water bus (vaporetto) at the Fondamenta Nuove stop and took the 45 minute ride over to Burano Island. We didn’t get there until almost 6pm so things were starting to close down. But we were able to grab a quick dinner at Trexento and make a stop in a couple of the shops.

The island’s buildings are painted in bright colors such as pink, blue, green, and purple. The origin of the brightly colored houses is said to be from the fishermen who used to live on the island. They painted their houses in bright colors so they could easily spot them from the sea.

Burano Island is also famous for its traditional lace-making industry. The art of lace-making has been passed down through generations of Burano families, and today it is still possible to see artisans creating delicate lace items by hand. My Mom bought some when we were there.

We definitely wish we had more time on the island! We also really enjoyed seeing the views of Venice from the water on the way here and back.

We didn’t make it To Murano Island on this trip but we ill next time! I just couldn’t resist the colored buildings of Burano so made the choice to go there since we could just go to 1 island. However, getting to Murano from Venice only takes about 10-15 minutes by water taxi (vaporetto).

Murano Island is known for the art of glass making. The skill dates back to the 13th century when the Venetian Republic ordered all glass factories to move to the island to prevent fires in the city. Since then, Murano has been renowned for its exquisite glassware, and the island’s artisans continue to create unique glass objects by hand using traditional techniques.

When you go to Murano you can watch the glass-making process in action by visiting one of the island’s many glass factories and studios. These studios offer guided tours that showcase the intricate and complex process of creating glass objects. You can also see the stunning finished products on display in the studios and purchase them as souvenirs.

Our friends from Zula Life visited Murano Island and did a glass making class and they said they loved it!!

You can see the video of them in the class here.

Where To Eat In Venice

Gelateria il Doge

This Gelato spot is located in Campo Santa Margherita. The kids were able to get their ice cream and they sat by a fountain to eat it while us and my parents found an open table at Fuori Rotta to get a glass of wine.

When the kids came to find us after they were done with their gelato by Dad gave them 20 Euro and said go see what else you can find. That give us a chance to sit for a bit longer and finish our glass or bottle 🙂 of wine.

Birraria la Corte

We were excited to head to Birraria la Corte to try their pizza! When we walked in they asked if we had a reservation . . . umm no. I guess that meant we might not get a table. Luckily they had some outside seating and since it was a bit cooler not many people wanted to sit out there.

It was actually really nice and we always prefer to eat outside when we can. The drinks were good and the pizza was delicious!

Cip & Ciop

This was a fun little restaurant/bar right by where we stayed. They had these delicious handheld foods like fried mozzarella pocket things and vegetarian tapa’s and other ones filled with meat. I don’t even know the right way to describe them but they were so good!

You just walked up to the counter and they had everything on display in the case so you just asked for what you wanted. We went and ordered and came back and ordered more since it was so good.

I think they are called Cicchetti. Like the Italian version of Spanish Tapas. In any case if you are in Venice ask around about Cicchetti and try all the things!

Cantina Do Spade

Make sure to stop here for a Mozzarella Sandwich. We just stopped in to grab one to go and it was delicious!! While we waited we also got a glass of wine and that was good too.

Where To Stay In Venice

When picking where to stay we picked a place – Residence degli Artisti – that was close to the train station so we could easily walk from there to our vacation rental with our backpacks and bags.

The place we picked wasn’t close to St Mark’s square but we liked that it was tucked away and not in the middle of all the hustle and bustle of Venice.

The place – Residence degli Artisti – was beautiful and we were glad we stayed here.

Venice Itinerary

Here is what we did on our 2 days in Venice. We definitely could have stayed longer. We really fell in love with Venice!!

Venice – Day 1 (day you arrive)

• Head to the Piazzale Roma water bus (Vaporetto) stop. To start the Rick Steves Grand Canale tour at the right place. Check out the water bus schedule here. You can buy your tickets online before you get there.
• Ride the water bus to the St Marks Square stop. If you want more context check out the Rick Steves Tour of St Marks Square on his app. Stop here for a drink in the square.
• Birraria la Corte for dinner.
• Breakfast and Coffee at Cip & Ciop
• 10am – Rialto Market Area – only open until 1pm
• Osteria al Squero to watch the Gondola workshop across the canal (squero di san trovaso).
• Campo Santa Margherita and get gelato at Gelateria il Doge [Dorsoduro 3058/A, Rio Terà Canal]
• Stop at Cantina Do Spade for mozzerella sandwiches.
• Santa Maria Formosa Church – which was in the Spiderman movie.
• Liberia Acqua Alta
• Ponte de l’Arsenal o del Paradiso – which was in the Spiderman movie.
• 2pm – Gondola Ride – 30-45 minutes.
• 3pm – Scavenger Hunt Tour
• 5pm – Head to Burano Island
• Burano Island for dinner at Trexento
• Head back to Venice

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15 things you must do in Venice, Italy

Posted: March 16, 2024 | Last updated: March 16, 2024

Even if you've never been to Venice, you know what it looks like. Venetian buildings lined across canals, open courtyards dotted with plants, exotic bridges soft with seaweed, and buzzing with tourists. The mere mention of Venice conjures a whirlpool of images. 

So why not dive in? Visit the historic city and you can amble around sun-speckled canals, mysterious alleyways, unmissable museums, and romantic restaurants. There are a million things to do in Venice, but there are only 15 things you can't go without. 

Grand Canal

The city's beating heart and romantic soul, there's no shortage of things to do here. Take a water taxi or a gondola ride. Admire the view from a bridge or a nearby restaurant. Or circle back at night when the crowds are thin, the streets are quiet and the lights flicker across the canal, beckoning you to take a closer look. 

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St. Mark's Square

St. Mark's Square is kind of like Times Square without the streakers. Or the homeless people, trash cans, or New Yorkers. OK, so it's not exactly like Times Square, but it is nicknamed "the Times Square of Venice," because it's the central spot for tourists and is surrounded by history. Thankfully, this slice of history is lined with columns and museums, and if you arrive early enough, you can have the place to yourself. 

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Caffe Florian

While you're in St. Mark's Square, you'll want to visit Caffe Florian. This iconic Venetian restaurant was once a watering hole for Proust, Dickens, and Casanova, and the decor hasn't changed much over the years. My advice: enjoy an espresso in the same seat Dickens once enjoyed a beer. 

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Teatro La Fenice

The name Teatro La Fenice, a landmark opera house, means "The Phoenix"--a nod to the fact that it's risen from the ashes not once, but three times, most recently after two arsonists burned it down in 1996. But it's been renovated and restored back to its former glory, complete with rows of balconies and red-velvet chairs. 

Peggy Guggenheim Collection

This private collection was once the home of Peggy Guggenheim, who played a big role in the careers of Jackson Pollock, Max Ernst, and Alberto Giacometti. Now, you'll find the walls lined with Picasso, Dali, Mondrian, and Malevich. Plus, Joseph Cornell! 

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Lido Island

After wandering museums and alleyways, you'll want to lie down on the serene sands of Lido. A 15-minute Vaporetto ride from St. Mark's Square, the island offers beaches that stretch as far as the eye can see, dotted with kids, teens, families, and leather-skin grandpas. Two hours on the beach and you'll have a pretty great tan, too. 

Venice Film Festival

Speaking of the Lido, when the Venice Film Festival hits town every September, there's no better place to be. Pro tip: get to screenings early. Even if you have a pass, you'll need to be there a couple of hours before the film starts. 

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Murano Glass Museum

While your hopping from island to island, make time for a trip to Murano and admire the glass-making artistry. The products are held on display at the Murano glass museum, where you're gonna want to keep an eye on your pocketbook. Not because of pickpockets, which are a problem in Venice. But because these dreamy works of art are going to inspire you to stop by the gift shop on your way out, or at a glass factory nearby. 

Osteria Alla Frasca

For a true Venetian dinner, Osteria Alla Frasca is one of the most authentic spots in town. You come here, of course, for the delightful seafood pasta, but you're really here to eat like the locals, with the locals. It's an adventure just trying to find this small, family-owned gem, though once seated in its courtyard, you won't want to leave. 

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Church of San Giorgio Maggiore

Everyone needs a picture of themselves in Venice. Whether it's for Instagram, Twitter, or Tinder, you can't go wrong with the tower of San Giorgio, which boasts panoramic views of Venice from 350-feet up. 

Rialto Bridge

Another candidate for best-selfie: Rialto Bridge has the best view of the Grand Canal, though best not to go midday. Like every main attraction in Venice, make plans to go in the morning or at night. 

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Burano Island

Burano is a beautiful island 40-minutes away from Venice, but what truly sets this destination apart are the colorful buildings sprinkled around the city. The fisherman painted each house a different color so they knew whose house was whose, which makes it look like a paint sampler come to life. Every street is a rainbow of discovery. 

Carnevale Festival

Every February, the city hosts a carnival where three million people dress up in costumes and dance until dawn. It's the closest thing to Fellini-esque Venice has to offer. 

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Hotel Locanda

Known as the spot where Ernest Hemingway wrote Across the River , the Hotel Locanda is nicely situated just outside of town, and it's $75 a night. Not bad for a place with so much history...and such great croissants! 

Venice is a crazy, decadent maze of streets--and each one leads to a new, exciting place. You're going to get lost. Your map is going to be off. The best thing to do is walk around, lose the schedule, and discover a new restaurant, cafe, canal, or church. Once you've seen the tourist spots, wander into the heart of Venice, glide across a sun-soaked street, dance into a wine-soaked night, share a bottle with a loved one or a spritz with a stranger. There are a million things to do in Venice, but getting lost is mio preferito . 

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Jun 1, 2024 • 6 min read

The best way to explore Venice Beach and its eclectic boardwalk is on foot © Getty Images

In our 10K steps series, we've asked writers for the best places to get in your steps while enjoying city sights, favorite routes and some secret detours. In this one James March takes us around the colorful and chaotic streets and boulevards of Venice Beach.

Los Angeles’ coast stretches 75 miles, but little of that sun-kissed shore is as iconic, colorful or strange as Venice Beach .

Flanked by Santa Monica to the north and Marina Del Ray to the south, Venice’s waterfront is one of the most eclectic and iconoclastic public spaces in California and has been officially part of LA since 1926. But there’s far more to Venice than just its chaotic boardwalk . From languid canals to sleek skateparks, a wander around this bizarre corner of LA is an assault on the senses like no other and all are welcome in Venice’s potpourri of hippies, misfits, performers, artists and beatniks.

The best way to soak it all in is via a looped walk, so here’s how to follow my favorite route.

Where to start: The Venice Sign

You’ll see the famous Venice Sign again later this evening (in a much brighter fashion), but it’s also a good starting point for our walk. Industrial-chic breakfast spot Eggslut is around the corner if you need a bit of pre-walk fuel with one of their (unsurprisingly) egg-heavy sandwiches. Otherwise, head east on Pacific Avenue before turning north on S Venice Blvd and joining the Venice Canals towpath.

Meander the Venice Canals

Comfortably the most peaceful corner of Venice, these saltbush-fringed canals look nothing like the rest of the neighborhood. Or LA, for that matter. With arcing white bridges, a soft color palette, swaying palms and handsome water reflections, the canals are wonderfully photogenic and don’t be surprised if you feel a pang of jealousy toward those living here.

Each waterside house is different, with the big-windowed Scandi-style modernist apartments the most seductive (in this writer’s opinion). There’s little wind here too, compared to the beach, which only adds to the joyous serenity. Watch for cormorants, herons and other birdlife splashing down as you stroll.

Exit the canals and stroll north on S Venice Blvd. Walk for around 10 minutes, past the Abbot Kinney Memorial Branch Library and turn left on Abbot Kinney Blvd. Abbot Kinney himself was the 19th-century founder of the canals (he successfully changed the name of this area from Ocean Park to Venice in 1911, due to his fascination with the Italian lagoon city) and now this popular street is named after him.

Stop for quality coffee on Abbot Kinney

Affluent Abbot Kinney Blvd perhaps more closely resembles other LA neighborhoods du jour like Silverlake or Brentwood, though there are some nods to its coastal location, like the pseudo wooden beach shack hosting a Ray-Ban outlet (check out turquoise Goodr cabin further down the street for more affordable shades). Speaking of shops, there are plenty of ways to empty your wallet here, from overpriced smoothies to myriad retro clothing stores.

But this sophisticated stroll is also splashed with cool murals and some excellent restaurants and coffee stops, with the airy Intelligentsia the pick of the bunch. Natural light pours down on its wood-paneled central station as organic blends are poured to the sound of bouncy jazz beats (though prepare for the occasional patience-testing line).

Reasonably-priced tacos can be grabbed at family-owned Tacos Por Favor on the corner of Electric Avenue and Hampton Drive, otherwise continue north along Hampton and past the iconic Golds Gym (Arnold Schwarzenegger still pumps iron there from time to time allegedly, though you’ll need to be up at the crack of dawn to catch him). Make a zig-zagging path to Navy St, before eventually emerging onto the northern end of the Venice boardwalk.

Hit the boardwalk

Cannabis smoke drifts, drums thump, neon bikes glimmer, handheld stereos blast, low-flying helicopters hum, people shout, others sing and hot dog stands hiss. Your senses aren’t so much assaulted in Venice’s epicenter as bludgeoned. The boardwalk is kitschy and trashy but always compelling.

With the sun a little stronger and everyone feeling a little looser, mid-afternoon is the best time to experience the boisterous boardwalk where people watching never felt so exhilarating. Duck into Small World Books for a slice of cerebral calm, and only use the beach’s public restrooms if it's really necessary.

Make the leisurely walk south at your own pace and stop at any vendor that catches your eye (there are over 200 to choose from). People here are always willing to chat and chances are you’ll meet some curiously dressed characters who may or may not tell you their life story. Sidewalk Cafe is a breezy spot for a cold afternoon beer and it’s also adjacent to the skate park, which is our next port of call.

Admire some serious skating skills

When LA’s soft late-afternoon light hits Venice’s sunken skatepark a sublime scene forms, with talented local skaters turned to gliding silhouettes fringed by tall skinny palms. The vibes are always good, with tourists and friends watching and applauding the flicks and tricks on show.

The sound of the nearby waves breaking is amplified here, and the genial encouragement alongside the funky beats from the roller skating dance plaza behind makes the atmosphere fun, especially when there’s back-and-forth banter between skaters and their friends behind the rails.

It’s not far from LA’s lapping shores here, so maybe go for a quick paddle in the Pacific while you have the chance. Head back down to the boardwalk and stop by at the famous Muscle Beach where you might catch an adonis or two working on their bench press.

Arnold, the original Incredible Hulk Lou Ferrigno and many more have trained here during bodybuilding’s 1970s golden era. Though these days it's the relentless clack of couples playing paddle tennis from the courts behind that’s more popular. Stroll past the restaurants and bars of Windward Avenue and take a right at the Venice Sign where you’ll head inside the Hotel Erwin .

Soak in sunset rooftop views

Surprisingly, there’s only one place in Venice with a rooftop patio, and this is it. Lined by blood orange parasols, the Hotel Erwin’s 7th-floor deck is huge and stretches the entire length of the hotel. And on a clear day the views are genuinely panoramic, with downtown’s hazy skyscrapers visible and the high craggy Malibu Hills stretching east to Hollywood and beyond.

If you time this walk right, you’ll catch a golden sunset settling over the lights of Santa Monica Pier . Many of the sofas will be reserved, but the bar and the high tables on the left-hand side are available to all comers.

You can order food at the Erwin or take the elevator back down to Windward Avenue below for more gastro options (the smoky mezcal served at the Del Monte Speakeasy inside Townhouse is a favorite of mine). But since you’re here and night has fallen, don’t forget to cross over Pacific Avenue and take a photo of the Venice Sign now that it’s all lit up and strung out in its green, white and red glory.

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sell 10 Day Marco Polo Tour 2025

10 Days / 8 Nights   Starting at $4295 PP (Land Rate)

Our Marco Polo Tour is the counterpart to our Vesuvius Tour. One featuring Venice, the other featuring Sorrento. Either way, you can be assured that Steve Perillo has hand-selected every hotel, restaurant, sightseeing experience and guide that will make your vacation the memory of a lifetime.

MONDAY : Boarding your overnight flight, you’re off to Italy on the adventure of a lifetime!

TUESDAY : Benvenuti a Venezia ! We are pleased to offer complimentary motorboat transfers from the Venice airport to your hotel at scheduled times. Your Perillo representative will be at the airport to greet you.

After you settle in at your hotel, take a stroll through Venice. Get lost in the traffic-free streets and alleyways. There are so many wonderful things to see!

Tonight, we’ll meet our tour leader for a brief orientation and welcome drink, followed by dinner at our favorite restaurant in Venice just steps from St. Mark’s Square.

WEDNESDAY : This morning we’ll meet our expert local guide for a walking tour of St. Mark’s Square, the great Byzantine Basilica, the Bridge of Sighs and an inside visit of the Doge’s Palace. Next, we’ll board our mostoscafi to the beautiful island of Murano, where we will visit one of the oldest glass-blowing factories. Our glass masters will show us two different glass blowing techniques: the hand-blown glass technique creating a small vase and the carved glass technique, creating a small sculpture like a glass horse, fish or cat.

Next, we’ll board our motoscafi to visit one of the world’s oldest glass-blowing factories on the island of Murano.

This afternoon you’ll have a chance to get lost in the city’s labyrinth of canals, bridges and tiny piazzas. Being a small island, it’s impossible to stray very far. But it won’t hurt to master the phrase Dov’è Piazza San Marco ?

Dinner is on your own tonight and there are lots of great choices around your hotel. Even Hemingway’s famous Harry’s Bar is just around the corner. Your guide will be happy to make suggestions. Just ask.

THURSDAY : This morning it’s back to the mainland where we’ll meet our dependable driver for the ride to Florence. But on the way, we’ll make a memorable stop: Padua.

Visitors to Padua are often surprised by a sense of deep spirituality. St. Anthony ( patron Saint of lost objects ) is buried here in the serene Basilica which dates back to the 1200s.

Tonight, we’ll enjoy dinner at our hotel. A toast ( brindisi ) to Florence and new friends!

FRIDAY : Florence, the fountainhead of the Renaissance—city of Dante, Boccaccio, Botticelli, and Da Vinci!

Enjoy a breathtaking panorama of the city atop Piazzale Michelangelo, followed by our tour of the Academy of Fine Arts where Michelangelo’s proud David stands, the majestic Cathedral built in 1296, Giotto’s Bell Tower and the Baptistery with its Gates of Paradise doors.

We follow the medieval streets to the most striking square in Florence, Piazza della Signoria and then to Florence’s most compelling Franciscan church built in 1294—Santa Croce. It’s not only an artistic shrine with frescoes by Giotto, but also the burial place of 270 of the city’s most eminent inhabitants—among them Galileo, Michelangelo, Machiavelli, and Rossini.

In the cloister next door, we see the Pazzi Chapel— widely regarded as one of the most perfect early Renaissance creations.

Tonight, please be our guest at a fine local Florentine restaurant with flowing wines and great friends. A perfect ending to a perfect day !

SATURDAY : While the ambitious city of Florence was launching the Renaissance, Siena was her laid back country cousin. Just 30 miles South of Florence, she is considered the best-preserved medieval city in Italy.

Our guided tour will include the elaborately carved Gothic cathedral, Town Hall, and Piazza del Campo – site of the famous Palio horse race. You’ll have time for lunch on your own, shopping and a little more exploring.

This afternoon we’ll visit Tenuta Torciano winery in Tuscany and meet our dear friend, Pierluigi Giachi, the world’s most enchanting sommelier. You’ll learn about the grape, the nose, food pairings and most importantly which glass to use with each wine! You’ll also get to experience an olive oil and truffle oil tasting…and of course have some fresh bread with it!

This will all be followed by a fabulous early dinner and wine tasting. Cin-Cin !

SUNDAY : This morning, we enjoy our drive south to Rome through Tuscany, Umbria and Lazio, the green heart of Italy.

This afternoon, we enjoy a relaxing, panoramic driving tour of Imperial Rome including the Roman Forum, downtown ancient Rome, the CircusMaximus, and the Great Synagogue, built in the heart of the Jewish quarter.

Then we’ll enter the Colosseum, reliving the brutal entertainment of the gladiators and the lions, refereed by the Emperor himself.

Tonight, we return to the twenty-first century and enjoy a typical Roman dinner at our hotel.

*Colosseum entrance subject to ticket availability*

MONDAY : A free day in Rome ! But don’t sleep in too late—there’s much to do and see! Ask your tour leader for suggestions.

Why not start with an espresso in Piazza Navona, toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure your return and stroll across the Tiber for another look at the Vatican. Rome is a great city for walking, shopping and people watching.

Tonight, we enjoy a delicious dinner in the characteristic district of Trastevere, one of the centers of the Roman night life. This lively area of tiny winding streets gives a taste of what one imagines Italy to be like, with cobbled streets and music-filled trattorias on every corner.

TUESDAY : This morning, it’s a ten-minute drive to another country—Vatican City! With our expert local guide we’ll tour the Vatican Museums, a massive collection of ancient Greek sculptures, medieval tapestries and Renaissance paintings.

Our visit culminates in the Sistine Chapel, the room where the Pope is elected. Next we visit St. Peter’s Basilica, by far the largest church in Christendom. We’ll see Michelangelo’s Pietà, sculpted when he was just 24, as well as Bernini’s seven-story bronze canopy located above the main altar.

( Please note that the visit of St. Peter’s Basilica is subject to availability based on the events planned by the Pope. )

Tonight, you’re free to enjoy a night in Rome on your own with your new friends. Be sure to have an ice cream at one of the best shops in Rome, close to the Trevi Fountain, “Il Gelato di San Crispino.” Try the nocciola !

WEDNESDAY : This morning you board your flight home, arriving in the USA the same day. While we say arrivederci to Italy, we realize we’re taking a little piece of it back home with us.

Thanks for traveling with the Perillo family and please return soon.

• Centrally located 4 & 5 star hotels
• More Motorcoach Legroom
• Airport Transfers at Scheduled Times
• Full Breakfast Daily
• Wine Tasting & Olive Oil Tasting
• Wireless Headsets To Hear Your Tour Guide Clearly
• Travel Wallet , Baggage Tags and Travel Documents
• Baggage Handling Throughout (Except at Airports)
• Hotel Taxes, City Taxes , Hotel Service Charges and all Tips For Hotel and Restaurant Personnel
• Professional Tour Directors and Licensed Local Guides
• Complimentary Wi-Fi On Our Buses

Dates & Rates

Triple room deduct $500 per person from the Double rate. Kids under 12 sharing with 2 adults deduct $1000 from the Double Rate.

Hotel Metropole ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

The Metropole is an independent hotel situated in the heart of Venice, overlooking the lagoon and just a glance away from San Giorgio Island.

The charming 5-star hotel, with carefully-perfected details and an attentive service, take guests on a marvellous journey through time and emotions.

The intense ambience with candlelit spaces and scents of black pepper permeates the hotel that escapes traditional luxury cliches and expresses its personality through an eclectic decor, old mirrors, rugs from the Far East, red velvets and antique collections.

Hotel Plaza Lucchesi ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

The Plaza Hotel Lucchesi is a First-Class 4 star superior hotel located in the historic center of Florence. It is a luxurious, historical property from 1860, set right on the Arno, close to the Ponte Vecchio bridge and Piazza Santa Croce, and a short walk to the Uffizi Gallery and Piazza Duomo.

The hotel features a traditional restaurant that offer local specialties, the Empireo rooftop bar and an outdoor pool with breathtaking views of Florence.

Hotel Rose Garden Palace ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

Our favorite!  Rose Garden Palace Hotel is a distinctive spa hotel located in a restored historical townhome just off Via Veneto.  Rooms are grand and spacious like American hotels, with all the comforts of home. Experience fine dining at Il Roseto Restaurant and relax in the heated indoor pool and steam room. This is our preferred property in Rome, owned by our very own Steve Perillo. Come and experience our wonderful service and ambiance. 

Airfares are unpredictable and impossible to estimate at time of brochure printing. Your airfare can range anywhere from approximately $1,000 to $1,900 depending on your departure city. Additionally, current departure tax and fuel surcharges are approximately $650 per person and are subject to change.

Your exact airfare will be advised within 3 business days of booking your tour. You are under no obligation to accept Perillo's air schedule and quote. However, payment for tickets issued by Perillo Tours is due with "final payment."

Airfares DO include your roundtrip airport transfer in Italy at scheduled times, provided you arrive and depart on scheduled tour dates. If you wish to arrive earlier or extend your stay, airport transfers are not included.

We strongly recommend you BOOK EARLY as lowest airfares are on a first-come, first-serve basis. Plus, more availability on the most convenient flights and best seats.

Affordable Upgrades

When you purchase your Coach ticket through Perillo Tours, you can upgrade to "Premium Economy" on select flights starting at $550 each way. For ultimate comfort enjoy Business Class/First Class for a surcharge of as little as $4,000 per person.

Security Measures

The Transportation Security Administration requires all passengers to provide the exact name as it appears on the government-issued passport, passport number, expiration date, date of birth and gender when making airline reservations. This information will be requested at time of booking for all flight arrangements made through Perillo Tours.

CRITICALLY IMPORTANT: Name corrections are subject to change fees, so please have your passport in-hand when calling us for flight reservations.

Arranging your own air?

Roundtrip airport transfers are provided at scheduled times if you arrive and depart the same day as the tour begins and ends. Click here for the schedule.

Find Your Airport

Or call and let us help you..

format_quote Testimonials

I have to thank Perillo Tours for an absolutely terrific vacation!  The accommodations were wonderful; the side trips were both enjoyable as well as informative but most importantly, Our tour guide, Cousin Burt, was great! 

My wife and I just returned from our North Continental 14 Day tour of Italy and wanted to let you know it was fabulous. We cannot think of a better way to see so much great art and history and culture in such a short time. Thanks again for offering such a great tour.

Mr. & Mrs. M.E.

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Roaming Through Venice Like a Local: The Ultimate Tourist Companion for Italy's Floating City (Roaming Through Italy Travel Guides) Paperback – Large Print, May 26, 2024

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Can you imagine navigating the enchanting waterways and historic streets of Venice? Picture yourself meandering through St. Mark's Square, cruising past the awe-inspiring Grand Canal, and delving into the vibrant culture and rich history of Italy's Floating City. Sounds like a traveler's dream, doesn’t it? It’s all within your grasp with "Roaming Through Venice Like a Local: The Ultimate Tourist Companion for Italy's Floating City" as your trusted companion!

What Sets This Guide Apart:

Extensive Listings: Explore various attractions across Venice. Each listing is packed with essential information, including locations, operational hours, contact details, and links, all complemented by vivid descriptions that transport you directly to the heart of Venice. From the bustling markets of Rialto to the serene pathways of Cannaregio, this guide ensures you won’t miss a moment.

Rich Descriptions and Imagery: Prepare to be transported to each destination before you even pack your bags, with rich, descriptive narratives and stunning photographs that capture the essence of Venice. These entries don’t just inform—they inspire your travel adventures.

First-Hand Experiences and Recommendations: Benefit from first-hand accounts and expert advice. Discover the best seasons to visit, where to dine, and how to maximize your experience in each locale—from the romantic bridges to the secluded islands of the lagoon.

Accessibility and Visitor Tips: This guide provides comprehensive accessibility information to ensure all travelers can fully enjoy Venice’s architectural and cultural riches. Practical tips on transportation options, water taxi services, and other visitor essentials streamline your travel plans, allowing for a smooth and enjoyable exploration.

Dynamic and User-Friendly Format: Designed for ease of use, the guide is organized in a user-friendly format, allowing quick access to information whether you're interested in art, architecture, or culinary delights.

Need I say more? Our guide is more than just a travel book; it’s a gateway to adventures and experiences in one of Europe’s most spectacular cities. Grab your copy today and embark on an unforgettable journey through the enchanting and timeless Venice!

• Print length 100 pages
• Language English
• Publication date May 26, 2024
• Dimensions 6 x 0.23 x 9 inches
• ISBN-13 979-8326720306
• See all details

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Product details

• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0D59DK3BB
• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Independently published (May 26, 2024)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 100 pages
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 979-8326720306
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 5.1 ounces
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 6 x 0.23 x 9 inches
• #97 in Venice Travel Guides
• #1,278 in general Italy Travel Guides
• #2,972 in Tourist Destinations & Museums Guides

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His books go beyond ordinary travel stories. They are exciting adventures filled with the rich history and unique cultures of each place he writes about. Through his words, you get to experience the true essence of every location.

Join Harrison and his team as they journey from one extraordinary place to the next. Each of his writings is not just a story, but an invitation to discover the beauty and mysteries of our world, one destination at a time.

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