Gondola Ride & Venice walking tour

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Explore the famous sites and hidden charms of Venice on a walking tour, followed by a ride through the city’s canals on an iconic gondola.

Highlights

A classic Venice walking tour mixed with gondola ride
Discover lesser-known streets and back alleys, packed with Venice’s treasures
listen to in-depth stories and commentary from your own private guide
2 :30 hour walking tour of Venice with gondola ride

Description

Explore the heart of Venice on a guided walking tour that reveals both its famous landmarks and its hidden corners. Starting from Piazzale Roma, this immersive journey takes you through the charming San Polo district, offering a true taste of local life and Venetian tradition. We begin with a scenic walk through San Polo’s narrow streets and peaceful canals. You’ll have the option to visit the magnificent Frari Basilica, a Gothic masterpiece housing priceless works of art by Titian, Bellini, and Donatello—a treasure for lovers of art and history. Next, we make our way to the vibrant Rialto area, the city's former commercial hub. We’ll stroll through the bustling Rialto Fish Market and cross the historic Rialto Bridge, enjoying beautiful views over the Grand Canal and learning about the significance of this lively neighborhood. From here, we meander through Venice’s maze of alleyways, uncovering hidden gems and picturesque courtyards, until we reach the heart of the city—St. Mark’s Square. But before that, enjoy a 30-minute gondola ride through the serene inner canals, a unique opportunity to admire the city from the water, just as Venetians have done for centuries. Back on land, we visit the lesser-known yet beautiful Church of San Zuliàn (San Zulian). Often passed by, this small church features important artworks and a rich history, which we’ll explore in detail. Our tour culminates in the iconic Piazza San Marco, where you’ll take in one of the most breathtaking views in Europe. We’ll admire the stunning façade of St. Mark’s Basilica (exterior), the towering Campanile, the historic Clock Tower, and the majestic Doge’s Palace (external explanation only), once the residence of Venice’s powerful rulers. Finally, we’ll view the famous Bridge of Sighs, learning the poignant story behind its name. This experience is ideal for first-time visitors and returning travelers alike, offering a thoughtful blend of Venetian history,, local culture, and architectural beauty. Led by an experienced, licensed guide with deep knowledge of the city’s past and present, this tour is more than just a walk—it’s a journey through time in one of the world’s most enchanting cities.