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- English
Step inside St. Mark’s Basilica, one of Venice’s most iconic landmarks, with reserved access to skip the long lines. Admire dazzling mosaics, intricate Byzantine architecture, and centuries-old treasures that make this cathedral a masterpiece. Your guide will reveal its symbolism, design details, and historical significance.
Then, glide through Venice’s canals on a classic gondola ride, an essential experience. As you float beneath bridges and past centuries-old palaces, you’ll see the city from a unique perspective, away from the crowds. The peaceful waterways reveal a quieter, more intimate side of Venice, where history and tradition blend seamlessly with daily life.
Whether starting with St. Mark’s Basilica or the gondola ride, this tour offers an unforgettable glimpse into Venice’s rich heritage and timeless charm.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Please meet your guide under the Arches of the Clock Tower on Piazza San Marco. The guide will have a City Wonders flag for easy recognition.
Itinerary
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(Pass by)
Passing by at the start of the tour
Admission ticket free -
1
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Saint Mark’s Basilica, Venice’s most iconic landmark, on a guided tour that brings its rich history and stunning architecture to life. Skip the lines and step inside this Byzantine masterpiece, famous for its glittering gold mosaics, intricate marble floors, and stunning domes. Learn about the church’s deep religious significance, its role in Venetian history, and the treasures it holds, including the Pala d’Oro, a dazzling gold altarpiece adorned with precious gems.
45 minutes • Admission ticket included -
(Pass by)
The Bacino di San Marco is the stunning Venetian lagoon basin in front of St. Mark’s Square, offering one of the most breathtaking views in Venice. This historic waterway has been the heart of the city's maritime trade for centuries, where gondolas, vaporettos, and majestic cruise ships glide past landmarks like the Doge’s Palace, San Giorgio Maggiore, and the iconic Ponte della Paglia. With its shimmering waters and dramatic skyline, the Bacino di San Marco is the perfect spot to soak in the magic of Venice, and to start your gondola tour!
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
The Rio del Palazzo is one of Venice’s most enchanting canals, flowing alongside the Doge’s Palace and beneath the famous Bridge of Sighs. This quiet, atmospheric waterway offers a glimpse into the city’s historic heart, where your gondola will glide past elegant palaces and hidden passageways. The canal’s most iconic view is from beneath the Bridge of Sighs, where prisoners once took their final look at Venice before entering the palace’s dungeons.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
The Bridge of Sighs is one of Venice’s most famous landmarks, connecting the Doge’s Palace to the historic prisons. Built in the 17th century, this enclosed white limestone bridge is named after the sighs of prisoners who, according to legend, took one last look at Venice through its stone-barred windows before their fate was sealed. Designed by Antonio Contino, its delicate beauty contrasts with its somber past. Today, the bridge is a symbol of Venetian romance and mystery, best admired from the Rio del Palazzo from your gondola.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
The Rio di Santa Maria Formosa is a picturesque canal in the heart of Venice, flowing near the historic Campo Santa Maria Formosa and its stunning Renaissance church. Lined with elegant palaces and traditional Venetian homes, this quiet waterway offers a glimpse into the city's authentic charm, away from the bustling Grand Canal. Gondolas and small boats navigate its tranquil waters, passing beneath charming stone bridges. The canal provides beautiful reflections of Venice’s timeless architecture, making it a perfect spot for your scenic gondola ride.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
The Rio di San Severo is a quiet and atmospheric canal in Venice, winding through the historic Castello district near St. Mark’s Basilica. Lined with elegant palaces and centuries-old buildings, this hidden waterway offers a more intimate and serene glimpse of the city, away from the crowded tourist routes. Your gondola will glide beneath charming stone bridges, reflecting the timeless beauty of Venetian architecture. With its tranquil setting and picturesque views, the Rio di San Severo is a perfect spot to experience the authentic charm of Venice before finishing your gondola ride.
Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- A dress code is required to enter St Mark's Basilica. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women.
- Only small bags are allowed in St Mark's Basilica
- Please note that the Gondola ride cannot operate during heavy rain or adverse weather conditions. In this case either an alternate date or a partial refund will be provided to clients
- Due to St. Mark's Basilica security regulations, a PASSPORT OR VALID ID DOCUMENT IS MANDATORY to join this tour. It is your responsibility to ensure you have a valid document with you on tour. Passengers who fail to provide a valid proof of identity will be denied entry.
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Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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