Grand Canal Venice Tours

Activities and tickets

30-minute Private Gondola Cruise

Journey down the Grand Canal and some of the smaller waterways of the city to see historic palaces and bridges from the water.

from €139

per group

2988 reviews

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Waterbus and Mainland Bus Pass (Non-refundable)

Book a ticket of public transportation services in the city of Venice.

from €9.50

per person

1333 reviews

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30-minute Traditional Shared Gondola Ride across Smaller Canals

The gondola is a symbol of Venice, as emblematic of the famous city of canals as it is mysterious in its origins. Experience a half-hour gondola ride that takes you to the heart of Venice as you admire its historic sites as they were meant to be seen.

€41

per person

2996 reviews

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30-minute Private Gondola tour

Book your enchanting private gondola ride in Venice and glide through centuries of history, allowing yourself to be captivated by the glamour and elegance of the Venetian Palazzi.

from €152

per group

630 reviews

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

The gondola ride is combined with a panoramic walking tour: a specialized local guide will explain to you some historical facts & anecdotes!

from €59.50

per person

1635 reviews

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50-minute Shared Gondola Ride with Commentary

Explore the hidden and scenic waterways of Venice as you take a gondola ride on the Grand Canal. Get free access to an app with commentary on your gondola itinerary.

from €35

per person

2111 reviews

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Grand Canal Shared Gondola Ride with Venice stories

Experience an enchanting gondola ride along the most beautiful part of the Grand Canal and its hidden waterways. Listen to an in-app commentary as you admire the views.

from €35

per person

1590 reviews

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30-minute Gondola Tour with optional Audio Guide

Discover the charming canals of Venice on a peaceful 30-minute gondola ride with a skilled master gondolier.

from €35

per person

1812 reviews

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Activities near the sight

2-hour Private Romantic Sunset Venetian Boat Tour

Climb aboard a typical Venetian boat and sail into the sunset.

from €95

per person

1837 reviews

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Hidden Venice: 1-3 hours Unusual Walking Tour with an Optional Gondola Ride

An unusual walking tour through most the unusual places of Venice. The specialized guide will escort you through the heart of Venice narrating its secrets and history.

from €27

per person

1781 reviews

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

Taste your way through the canal city on a street food tour of Venice. Walk through gorgeous squares, see impressive churches, and visit the bustling Rialto Market.

€44

per person

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Rialto Market Food and Wine Lunchtime Tour of Venice

Enjoy a real taste of Venice on a tantalizing lunchtime tour of the Rialto Market and discover the city’s impressive culinary credentials.

€89

per person

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

Taste your way through the backstreet bars of Venice on this delicious food and wine tour. Follow your local guide to different ‘enotecas’ (wine bars) to discover where local Venetians go to drink and mingle.

€109.31

per person

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Tourists reviews

Giacinto T.

Venice: Gondola Cruise in the Grand Canal

Finding the meeting point was a bit confusing. I thought I was supposed to meet a gondolier. Eventually, I got to the right place on my own and missed the 'Get you guide' contact that was waiting for me at the meeting point with a sign bearing my name.

7 days ago

ALEXIS

Venice: Private Gondola Ride

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.

7 days ago

Alex

Grand Canal Shared Gondola Ride with Venice stories

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

7 days ago

Andrew J.

50-minute Shared Gondola Ride with Commentary

It was a very pleasant shared gondola ride. Be warned in case you only want to go with your partner, each gondola has 4 people. The tour guide provided a short history of the gondola in English and Spanish on the walk to the gondola. The meeting point is right off of St Mark's Square and is in a convenient location for the average traveler who is already in the area.

7 days ago

Remo V.

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

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.

8 days ago

Heike

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

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.

9 days ago

Manfredo S.

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

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

10 days ago

Roland

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

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.

11 days ago

Photos

Discover the Best of Venice with a Grand Canal Tour

The Grand Canal is the lifeblood of Venice, Italy, stretching 2.4 miles (4 km) and serving as the city's main transportation route. This winding waterway is lined with breathtaking palaces, churches, and historic buildings, offering visitors a chance to witness Venice’s architectural splendor from the water. Whether you’re interested in a Grand Canal gondola ride, a Venice canal boat tour, or a luxurious Grand Canal cruise in Venice, this guide will help you plan an unforgettable experience.

The History of the Grand Canal

Dating back to the 12th century, the Grand Canal was developed as a crucial trade route, linking the Venetian Lagoon to the heart of the city. Over the centuries, it evolved into a bustling artery of commerce, symbolizing the wealth and prestige of the Venetian Republic.

Many of the palaces lining the canal reflect a mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture, showcasing the city's artistic heritage. Notable landmarks include Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute, built in the 17th century to commemorate the end of a devastating plague, and numerous Renaissance-era palaces that were once home to Venice’s elite.

Today, the Grand Canal remains Venice’s most famous waterway, attracting millions of visitors who come to admire its historic charm and scenic beauty. It continues to serve as a vital mode of transport, with traditional gondolas, vaporetti (water buses), and private boats navigating its waters daily.

Planning Your Grand Canal Tour

Best Time to Visit

The ideal times to explore the Grand Canal are spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) when the weather is mild and crowds are smaller. Summer can be hot and congested, while winter offers a quieter, more atmospheric experience.

Choosing Your Mode of Transport

Several options are available for exploring the Grand Canal:

Venice Canal Boat (Vaporetto): The public water bus is the most affordable way to tour the canal.
Grand Canal Gondola Ride: A romantic and traditional option, perfect for an intimate experience.
Venice Canal Boat Ride (Water Taxi): A faster, more private alternative to vaporetti.
Grand Canal Cruise in Venice: A luxurious experience that offers guided commentary and stunning views.

Planning Your Route

Key landmarks along the Grand Canal include:

Rialto Bridge & Market – One of Venice’s most iconic sights, offering stunning views of the canal.
Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute – A magnificent Baroque church built to celebrate the end of a plague.
Ca’ d’Oro – A breathtaking 15th-century Venetian Gothic palace housing an impressive art collection.
Palazzo Dario – A historic Gothic palace, rumored to be cursed.
Palazzo Venier dei Leoni (Peggy Guggenheim Collection) – Home to modern masterpieces by Picasso, Dali, and Pollock.
Accademia Bridge & Gallery – A must-see for art lovers, featuring works by Venetian masters like Titian and Tintoretto.

Unique & Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

Hidden Canals and Alleys

While the Grand Canal is Venice’s main waterway, some of the city’s most charming and peaceful spots can be found in its smaller canals and alleyways. Consider a Venice canal boat tour that ventures into these quieter waterways.

Local Shops and Authentic Eateries

Venice is home to incredible artisanal shops and traditional trattorias. From handcrafted masks to Murano glass souvenirs, exploring these hidden gems provides a glimpse into local Venetian culture.

Lesser-Known Museums & Galleries

Beyond the famous Peggy Guggenheim Collection, visit:

Palazzo Grassi – A hub for contemporary art.
Museo del Merletto – Showcasing the delicate craft of Venetian lace-making.
Scuola Grande di San Rocco – Featuring masterpieces by Tintoretto.

Tips for a Memorable Grand Canal Tour

Dress Comfortably: Wear breathable clothing and comfortable shoes for exploring the city on foot.
Bring a Camera or Binoculars: Capture stunning views of historic buildings and hidden details.
Respect Local Regulations: Venice carefully preserves its historic sites, so be mindful of your surroundings.
Learn Basic Italian Phrases: Simple greetings like Buongiorno (Good morning) and Grazie (Thank you) go a long way with locals.

Final Thoughts: Is a Grand Canal Tour Worth It?

Absolutely! Whether you choose a Venice Grand Canal boat tour, a romantic gondola ride, or an off-the-beaten-path experience, exploring Venice from its famous waterway is an unforgettable journey. With stunning architecture, rich history, and incredible views, the Grand Canal is the heart of Venice, Italy, and no trip to the city is complete without experiencing it.

So, whether you're searching for Grand Canal tickets, Venice canal boat rides, or a luxurious royal canal cruise tour, this guide ensures you make the most of your Venetian adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a Grand Canal boat tour last?

A typical Venice Grand Canal boat tour lasts about 1 hour, but private tours may be customized for longer durations.

Can you see the Rialto Bridge on a gondola ride?

Yes, many Grand Canal gondola rides pass under the Rialto Bridge, offering one of the best views in the city.

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

A walking tour provides the best views of St. Mark’s Basilica, the Campanile, and the Doge’s Palace.

How can I book a private gondola ride in Venice?

You can book a private gondola ride online in advance or hire one at designated gondola stations around the city.

Can I book a private gondola ride in Venice?

Yes, you can book a private gondola ride in Venice.

What are the main attractions near the Grand Canal?

Rialto Bridge – Iconic views of the canal. St. Mark’s Square – Home to Venice’s most famous landmarks. Doge’s Palace – A historical gem of Venetian architecture.

How long does a typical gondola ride last?

Most gondola rides last about 30 minutes, though extended tours are available.

What is unique about the Grand Canal?

Unlike any other city in the world, Venice’s Grand Canal serves as its main boulevard, lined with centuries-old palaces and historic sites, accessible only by water.