Christina U.

13 days ago

My family and I had the great pleasure of being guided by Tomosa on his classic Venetian styled boat. Honestly, it wasn’t the boat, the possible sunset, or anything else that made the trip it was Tomosa. Hands down an exceptionally smart, humorous, and well spoken skipper. My husband and I enjoyed his stories and wit so much that we almost had to be reminded to take pictures. He was organized by explaining to us what we were doing, where we were going and when we would do certain things. I found him to be considerate of our elderly group member to ensure she made it into the boat safely. We just had such a great time with him and learning some of Venice’s history. My husband and I love naval history and seeing Venice from this perspective was so much fun. We drank Prosecco, the whole bottle. I would highly recommend take a cruise with him, sunset, no sunset… it’s still an absolute blast to talk to him and hear all the wonderful historical stories.

2-hour Private Romantic Sunset Venetian Boat Tour

Troy

13 days ago

The guide Andre was very knowledgeable and helpful. I would have liked it better if there were less number in the group. For the purpose of buying Venetian glass products, purchase them in Burano. I found more variety and less expensive options too. The boat ride is beautiful, make sure you watch the sunset.

Murano and Burano Excursion

Rita f.

16 days ago

Beautiful day ! We were welcomed at the point established by mr. Manola, an exquisite person, prepared and extremely available, who accompanied us throughout the tour. First stop on the island of Murano: visit to the glass factory. Mr. Fabio, very kind, explained to us step by step the demonstration of a master glassmaker who created three beautiful objects for us. After a pleasant walk on the island we took the boat and went to Burano Manola, our super guide, made us visit the island by telling us and showing us a lot of interesting things After circumnavigating the island of Torcello (we chose not to go down) we returned to Venice enjoying the spectacle of the setting sun Beautiful, well organized, highly recommended experience, which we will definitely do again! a special thanks to Manola who made our trip special !!

Private Tour: 4-hour Murano, Burano with Hotel Pickup

Olivia

8 days ago

"The gondola ride offered a classic Venice experience, but the advertised commentary was underwhelming. Aside from a quick guide provided before boarding, there wasn’t much information or insight during the ride itself. It felt more like a tourist novelty than an informative experience. That said, considering the cost compared to other gondola rides, it wasn’t too bad. Just don’t go in expecting detailed commentary or a deeper understanding of Venice’s history. It’s more about soaking in the atmosphere than learning about the city."

30 minutes Shared Gondola ride through Grand Canal with a Gondolier Guide

ALEXIS

about 24 hours ago

Very good support, the walk is very pleasant, first passing by the Bridge of Sighs then discovering small canals that are very little frequented. However, the gondolier was not very talkative (or did he not speak English very well?) Therefore almost total absence of anecdote or historical remarks.

Venice: Private Gondola Ride

Alex

about 23 hours ago

The guide was excellent. He gave us lots of information about the history of Venice. My only gripe would be to say he walked very fast and some people struggled to keep up with his. Perhaps this needs to be taken into account. The Gondola ride was beautiful. Very relaxing but it could have been even better had the Gondolier even so much as made eye contact with us. Had he been just a little bit cordial we would have given him a tip. That is not the fault of the guide or the tour company so overall this was a good activity

45-minute Grand Canal Gondola Ride with Audio Guide

Remo V.

2 days ago

The tour was great! We walked (a lot!) and explored many roads, pontes and campos. The guide explained the History of the city and also the History behind the Monuments. We had almost 2 hours break before the gondola ride, and that was not expected. By the time we Started the gôndola ride, it was already very dark.

2-3 hours Shared Gondola Ride & Historical Venice Walking Tour

Heike

3 days ago

It was raining and there were only a few people on the boat. It was a unique and beautiful trip. We saw so much and learnt a lot too, the trip was definitely worth it, those 4 hours were well used. Would definitely recommend to others.

Shared Boat Trip: Glimpse of Murano, Torcello and Burano Islands

Manfredo S.

4 days ago

the first guide Valentina was very good and very kind, she explained very well and answered all the questions of the members of the group in a quick and targeted way. very good. the second guide, Alessandra, who accompanied us before the gondola ride, is a marvel, fantastic, funny and very friendly. he brilliantly conducted an Italian/French tour switching from one language to another with impressive ease! we are definitely satisfied

2-3 hours Shared Gondola Ride & Historical Venice Walking Tour

Roland

5 days ago

The canal tour was great and was a quick way to see the city by boat. Overall, I enjoyed the tour for the views that it provided. However, the logistics of the tour were a nightmare. After purchasing tickets, I was informed that I should go to a meeting spot and that I would be picked up there. The site also stated that a mobile voucher would be okay to use. That was not the case at all. You actually have to go to the ticketing office and show your mobile voucher there. The person working there will then give you a physical voucher and will tell you which boat to board. That was 100% not clear, but the company and workers remained adamant that it was. Because of the confusion, my family and I missed our tour, but luckily we were able to join the next one thanks to a helpful member of the company. So as long as you follow my instructions (and not the instructions on the website / confirmation e-mail) you'll be fine.

1-hour Shared Boat Cruise: Discovering the Palazzos and Bridges of Venice

Sophia M.

5 days ago

Amazing, friendly guide who was good fun and told us some really interesting things about Venice lovely people who joined us on the boat! Was a definite must, rounded our trip off perfectly to get away from the busy city and people and soak it all in with a few glasses of Prosecco.

2-hour Private Romantic Sunset Venetian Boat Tour

Antonello C.

6 days ago

We ment close to St. Marc and on it went. To begin with, I have no idea about Venice history; but the guide explained in a way that even a noob like me could quickly catch up. He was really into the stories, you could tell; his excitement rubbed off. Even the weirdest questions were not a problem - he had the answer. The restaurant recommendation really pleased my taste-buds, too! Amazing tour, definite recommendation!! The 2nd part, the self-guided tour, was quite interesting, too. I listened to it on my way back to the bus so I could only get a few stops but there are so many you can access!! If u book this tour I'd recommend to take the next day off so you can fully engage in the self-guided part, it's worth spending the time. Well, anyway: Thank you, it was great!

1-3 hours Walking Tour with an Optional Gondola Ride

Penelope T.

6 days ago

Not to miss! We recommend it at the beginning of the stay. Very interesting with lots of little anecdotes depending on the place. There is a nice balance between historical and anecdotal aspect. Our older teenagers were receptive to the explanations and loved this visit. Our guide who has lived all his life in Venice gave us the good sides of Venice, the good tips. She gave us advice for certain purchases (and it was not easy to find the place afterwards without having taken notes). And she also had a critical mind about the mass tourism that Venice represents and all the inconveniences that this engenders.

1-3 hours Walking Tour with an Optional Gondola Ride

Alex

6 days ago

Good experience on Gondola. 30 mins go by fast for the price paid, it is certainly an expensive ride. Our Gondolier is great, he was very skillfull, going around tight corners in the narrow river lanes. I'd highly recommend this for the beautiful views and experience.

30-minute Private Gondola Cruise

Apollinare G.

8 days ago

There were two of us and we booked an hour walk with a guide. It was easy to book and I would highly recommend it. We were only in Venice for two days and the walking tour gave us so much information and helped us to get orientated. It very much added to our trip!!

1-3 hours Walking Tour with an Optional Gondola Ride

James P.

8 days ago

Very kind gondolier, very nice the 'manager' of the voucher acceptance. Having booked online I thought I would save some money and not spend 40 euros more. I hope that at least part of these 40 euros will remain with the gondolier and the 'manager' because they are truly extremely available

30-minute Private Gondola Ride along Grand Canal

Tracy

9 days ago

I highly recommend this perfect trip to Murano and Burano. It was beautiful, informative, and a shopping extravaganza! I wish I had done the full day tour to spend more time! One negative was the meeting place!!! Give yourself extra time. 8 of us waited with no guide meeting us!

Half Day Boat Trip to Murano and Burano Lagoon Islands

Skylar G.

9 days ago

This was fantastic and totally worth the money! My husband and I traveled to Rome, Florence and Venice in July 2018. We were on a budget and didn't want to bust the budget, so went with the "shared" gondola option and then splurged to have the serenade option. The experience was unforgettable and easily the best part of our whole trip! The singer and the man with the accordion had great chemistry and were constantly interacting w/ my husband and I. I thought the 20 mins sounded kinda short, but it ended up being the perfect amount of time. Do it at sunset around 7:30 if possible. Highly recommend this to all my family members and friends, it was simply enchanting and something my husband and I will never forget!

30-minute Shared Gondola Cruise with Live Music and a Serenade

Alexandre

12 days ago

Great tour with a great group leader Georgia. She had great command over four language and was very clear in her English. The way they showed us the various important landmarks of Venice along the route made it as a city tour as well which we really liked. The time given at Murano Burano was also sufficient as we felt. ( if you want to spend more, one can come separately but with a tour I think time given was very sufficient). Transported in a big enough boat with good views . 10/10 from my side.

Half Day Boat Trip to Murano and Burano Lagoon Islands

Vanna P.

13 days ago

Our Guide Nicoletta, explained to us the little hidden mysteries of Venice by taking us through narrow streets, each prettier than the next. The people who took part in the excursion allowed us to share a good time with very interesting questions and the 2 hours spent were a special moment that we did not imagine at the start.

1-3 hours Walking Tour with an Optional Gondola Ride

Christina U.

13 days ago

My family and I had the great pleasure of being guided by Tomosa on his classic Venetian styled boat. Honestly, it wasn’t the boat, the possible sunset, or anything else that made the trip it was Tomosa. Hands down an exceptionally smart, humorous, and well spoken skipper. My husband and I enjoyed his stories and wit so much that we almost had to be reminded to take pictures. He was organized by explaining to us what we were doing, where we were going and when we would do certain things. I found him to be considerate of our elderly group member to ensure she made it into the boat safely. We just had such a great time with him and learning some of Venice’s history. My husband and I love naval history and seeing Venice from this perspective was so much fun. We drank Prosecco, the whole bottle. I would highly recommend take a cruise with him, sunset, no sunset… it’s still an absolute blast to talk to him and hear all the wonderful historical stories.

2-hour Private Romantic Sunset Venetian Boat Tour

Troy

13 days ago

The guide Andre was very knowledgeable and helpful. I would have liked it better if there were less number in the group. For the purpose of buying Venetian glass products, purchase them in Burano. I found more variety and less expensive options too. The boat ride is beautiful, make sure you watch the sunset.

Murano and Burano Excursion

Rita f.

16 days ago

Beautiful day ! We were welcomed at the point established by mr. Manola, an exquisite person, prepared and extremely available, who accompanied us throughout the tour. First stop on the island of Murano: visit to the glass factory. Mr. Fabio, very kind, explained to us step by step the demonstration of a master glassmaker who created three beautiful objects for us. After a pleasant walk on the island we took the boat and went to Burano Manola, our super guide, made us visit the island by telling us and showing us a lot of interesting things After circumnavigating the island of Torcello (we chose not to go down) we returned to Venice enjoying the spectacle of the setting sun Beautiful, well organized, highly recommended experience, which we will definitely do again! a special thanks to Manola who made our trip special !!

Private Tour: 4-hour Murano, Burano with Hotel Pickup

Olivia

8 days ago

"The gondola ride offered a classic Venice experience, but the advertised commentary was underwhelming. Aside from a quick guide provided before boarding, there wasn’t much information or insight during the ride itself. It felt more like a tourist novelty than an informative experience. That said, considering the cost compared to other gondola rides, it wasn’t too bad. Just don’t go in expecting detailed commentary or a deeper understanding of Venice’s history. It’s more about soaking in the atmosphere than learning about the city."

30 minutes Shared Gondola ride through Grand Canal with a Gondolier Guide

ALEXIS

about 24 hours ago

Very good support, the walk is very pleasant, first passing by the Bridge of Sighs then discovering small canals that are very little frequented. However, the gondolier was not very talkative (or did he not speak English very well?) Therefore almost total absence of anecdote or historical remarks.

Venice: Private Gondola Ride

Alex

about 23 hours ago

The guide was excellent. He gave us lots of information about the history of Venice. My only gripe would be to say he walked very fast and some people struggled to keep up with his. Perhaps this needs to be taken into account. The Gondola ride was beautiful. Very relaxing but it could have been even better had the Gondolier even so much as made eye contact with us. Had he been just a little bit cordial we would have given him a tip. That is not the fault of the guide or the tour company so overall this was a good activity

45-minute Grand Canal Gondola Ride with Audio Guide

Remo V.

2 days ago

The tour was great! We walked (a lot!) and explored many roads, pontes and campos. The guide explained the History of the city and also the History behind the Monuments. We had almost 2 hours break before the gondola ride, and that was not expected. By the time we Started the gôndola ride, it was already very dark.

2-3 hours Shared Gondola Ride & Historical Venice Walking Tour

Heike

3 days ago

It was raining and there were only a few people on the boat. It was a unique and beautiful trip. We saw so much and learnt a lot too, the trip was definitely worth it, those 4 hours were well used. Would definitely recommend to others.

Shared Boat Trip: Glimpse of Murano, Torcello and Burano Islands

Manfredo S.

4 days ago

the first guide Valentina was very good and very kind, she explained very well and answered all the questions of the members of the group in a quick and targeted way. very good. the second guide, Alessandra, who accompanied us before the gondola ride, is a marvel, fantastic, funny and very friendly. he brilliantly conducted an Italian/French tour switching from one language to another with impressive ease! we are definitely satisfied

2-3 hours Shared Gondola Ride & Historical Venice Walking Tour

Roland

5 days ago

The canal tour was great and was a quick way to see the city by boat. Overall, I enjoyed the tour for the views that it provided. However, the logistics of the tour were a nightmare. After purchasing tickets, I was informed that I should go to a meeting spot and that I would be picked up there. The site also stated that a mobile voucher would be okay to use. That was not the case at all. You actually have to go to the ticketing office and show your mobile voucher there. The person working there will then give you a physical voucher and will tell you which boat to board. That was 100% not clear, but the company and workers remained adamant that it was. Because of the confusion, my family and I missed our tour, but luckily we were able to join the next one thanks to a helpful member of the company. So as long as you follow my instructions (and not the instructions on the website / confirmation e-mail) you'll be fine.

1-hour Shared Boat Cruise: Discovering the Palazzos and Bridges of Venice

Sophia M.

5 days ago

Amazing, friendly guide who was good fun and told us some really interesting things about Venice lovely people who joined us on the boat! Was a definite must, rounded our trip off perfectly to get away from the busy city and people and soak it all in with a few glasses of Prosecco.

2-hour Private Romantic Sunset Venetian Boat Tour

Antonello C.

6 days ago

We ment close to St. Marc and on it went. To begin with, I have no idea about Venice history; but the guide explained in a way that even a noob like me could quickly catch up. He was really into the stories, you could tell; his excitement rubbed off. Even the weirdest questions were not a problem - he had the answer. The restaurant recommendation really pleased my taste-buds, too! Amazing tour, definite recommendation!! The 2nd part, the self-guided tour, was quite interesting, too. I listened to it on my way back to the bus so I could only get a few stops but there are so many you can access!! If u book this tour I'd recommend to take the next day off so you can fully engage in the self-guided part, it's worth spending the time. Well, anyway: Thank you, it was great!

1-3 hours Walking Tour with an Optional Gondola Ride

Penelope T.

6 days ago

Not to miss! We recommend it at the beginning of the stay. Very interesting with lots of little anecdotes depending on the place. There is a nice balance between historical and anecdotal aspect. Our older teenagers were receptive to the explanations and loved this visit. Our guide who has lived all his life in Venice gave us the good sides of Venice, the good tips. She gave us advice for certain purchases (and it was not easy to find the place afterwards without having taken notes). And she also had a critical mind about the mass tourism that Venice represents and all the inconveniences that this engenders.

1-3 hours Walking Tour with an Optional Gondola Ride

Alex

6 days ago

Good experience on Gondola. 30 mins go by fast for the price paid, it is certainly an expensive ride. Our Gondolier is great, he was very skillfull, going around tight corners in the narrow river lanes. I'd highly recommend this for the beautiful views and experience.

30-minute Private Gondola Cruise

Apollinare G.

8 days ago

There were two of us and we booked an hour walk with a guide. It was easy to book and I would highly recommend it. We were only in Venice for two days and the walking tour gave us so much information and helped us to get orientated. It very much added to our trip!!

1-3 hours Walking Tour with an Optional Gondola Ride

James P.

8 days ago

Very kind gondolier, very nice the 'manager' of the voucher acceptance. Having booked online I thought I would save some money and not spend 40 euros more. I hope that at least part of these 40 euros will remain with the gondolier and the 'manager' because they are truly extremely available

30-minute Private Gondola Ride along Grand Canal

Tracy

9 days ago

I highly recommend this perfect trip to Murano and Burano. It was beautiful, informative, and a shopping extravaganza! I wish I had done the full day tour to spend more time! One negative was the meeting place!!! Give yourself extra time. 8 of us waited with no guide meeting us!

Half Day Boat Trip to Murano and Burano Lagoon Islands

Skylar G.

9 days ago

This was fantastic and totally worth the money! My husband and I traveled to Rome, Florence and Venice in July 2018. We were on a budget and didn't want to bust the budget, so went with the "shared" gondola option and then splurged to have the serenade option. The experience was unforgettable and easily the best part of our whole trip! The singer and the man with the accordion had great chemistry and were constantly interacting w/ my husband and I. I thought the 20 mins sounded kinda short, but it ended up being the perfect amount of time. Do it at sunset around 7:30 if possible. Highly recommend this to all my family members and friends, it was simply enchanting and something my husband and I will never forget!

30-minute Shared Gondola Cruise with Live Music and a Serenade

Alexandre

12 days ago

Great tour with a great group leader Georgia. She had great command over four language and was very clear in her English. The way they showed us the various important landmarks of Venice along the route made it as a city tour as well which we really liked. The time given at Murano Burano was also sufficient as we felt. ( if you want to spend more, one can come separately but with a tour I think time given was very sufficient). Transported in a big enough boat with good views . 10/10 from my side.

Half Day Boat Trip to Murano and Burano Lagoon Islands

Vanna P.

13 days ago

Our Guide Nicoletta, explained to us the little hidden mysteries of Venice by taking us through narrow streets, each prettier than the next. The people who took part in the excursion allowed us to share a good time with very interesting questions and the 2 hours spent were a special moment that we did not imagine at the start.

1-3 hours Walking Tour with an Optional Gondola Ride

Christina U.

13 days ago

My family and I had the great pleasure of being guided by Tomosa on his classic Venetian styled boat. Honestly, it wasn’t the boat, the possible sunset, or anything else that made the trip it was Tomosa. Hands down an exceptionally smart, humorous, and well spoken skipper. My husband and I enjoyed his stories and wit so much that we almost had to be reminded to take pictures. He was organized by explaining to us what we were doing, where we were going and when we would do certain things. I found him to be considerate of our elderly group member to ensure she made it into the boat safely. We just had such a great time with him and learning some of Venice’s history. My husband and I love naval history and seeing Venice from this perspective was so much fun. We drank Prosecco, the whole bottle. I would highly recommend take a cruise with him, sunset, no sunset… it’s still an absolute blast to talk to him and hear all the wonderful historical stories.

2-hour Private Romantic Sunset Venetian Boat Tour

Troy

13 days ago

The guide Andre was very knowledgeable and helpful. I would have liked it better if there were less number in the group. For the purpose of buying Venetian glass products, purchase them in Burano. I found more variety and less expensive options too. The boat ride is beautiful, make sure you watch the sunset.

Murano and Burano Excursion

Rita f.

16 days ago

Beautiful day ! We were welcomed at the point established by mr. Manola, an exquisite person, prepared and extremely available, who accompanied us throughout the tour. First stop on the island of Murano: visit to the glass factory. Mr. Fabio, very kind, explained to us step by step the demonstration of a master glassmaker who created three beautiful objects for us. After a pleasant walk on the island we took the boat and went to Burano Manola, our super guide, made us visit the island by telling us and showing us a lot of interesting things After circumnavigating the island of Torcello (we chose not to go down) we returned to Venice enjoying the spectacle of the setting sun Beautiful, well organized, highly recommended experience, which we will definitely do again! a special thanks to Manola who made our trip special !!

Private Tour: 4-hour Murano, Burano with Hotel Pickup

Olivia

8 days ago

"The gondola ride offered a classic Venice experience, but the advertised commentary was underwhelming. Aside from a quick guide provided before boarding, there wasn’t much information or insight during the ride itself. It felt more like a tourist novelty than an informative experience. That said, considering the cost compared to other gondola rides, it wasn’t too bad. Just don’t go in expecting detailed commentary or a deeper understanding of Venice’s history. It’s more about soaking in the atmosphere than learning about the city."

30 minutes Shared Gondola ride through Grand Canal with a Gondolier Guide

Grand Canal Venice Tours

Tours and tickets 34

Tours near the attraction 5

Reviews

Discover the Best of Venice with a Grand Canal Tour

The History of the Grand Canal

Planning Your Grand Canal Tour

Best Time to Visit

Choosing Your Mode of Transport

Planning Your Route

Unique & Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

Hidden Canals and Alleys

Local Shops and Authentic Eateries

Lesser-Known Museums & Galleries

Tips for a Memorable Grand Canal Tour

Final Thoughts: Is a Grand Canal Tour Worth It?

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a Grand Canal boat tour last?

Can you see the Rialto Bridge on a gondola ride?

What’s the best way to see St. Mark’s Square and its architecture?

How can I book a private gondola ride in Venice?

Can I book a private gondola ride in Venice?

What are the main attractions near the Grand Canal?

How long does a typical gondola ride last?

What is unique about the Grand Canal?

Can I take a Grand Canal trip at night?

Sights of Venice

Murano

Burano

St. Mark's Square

Doge's Palace

Piazza San Marco

Rialto Bridge

Torcello

Santa Maria della Salute

Marco Polo's Home

Cannaregio

Saint Mark's Basilica

Lido di Venezia

Bridge of Sighs

Correr Museum

St. Mark's Clocktower

San Giorgio Maggiore

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Tours and tickets
34

Tours near the attraction
5