Morning Magic: Venice City Walk and Gondola Tour

3.2
(5 reviews)

2 hours 50 minutes (approximately)
Offered in: English

Embark on an extraordinary adventure through Venice's timeless landmarks. Begin your journey at the iconic St. Mark's Square, home to architectural marvels like St. Mark's Basilica, the Doge's Palace, and the exquisite Renaissance clock tower. Wander through the elegant residential district of Castello, traversing charming bridges and exploring picturesque alleys.

Explore the hidden gems of Campo Santa Maria Formosa and Campo San Giovanni & Paolo, where the grand Basilica stands tall alongside historic sites such as Marco Polo's residence and the renowned Malibran theatre. Our expert guide delves into Venice's vibrant history and architectural wonders, enriching your experience.

The walking odyssey concludes at St. Mark's Square, leading you through the lively Mercerie shopping street.

Then, immerse yourself in the true spirit of Venice aboard a gondola departing from Campo San Moisè. Glide gracefully along the majestic Grand Canal.

What's Included

Guided walking tour in the areas of Piazza San Marco and Castello
Gondola ride along the Grand Canal and minor canals
Personal audio system and headphones for tour commentary
The walking tour does not include visits to museums or attractions
The gondola ride is not a guided tour
Hotel pick-up and drop-off service
Food and beverages
Any tips

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

15 min before in Calle larga de l’Ascension 1256 - 30124 next to the post office San Marco (opposite side of the Saint Marks Basilica). Look for the yellow sign "Meeting point" on the wooden kiosk. Please look for the white "TURIVE TOUR" sign.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 2 hours 50 minutes (approximately)
  • 1

    Embark on a journey through the hidden gems of Venice, wandering off the beaten path between St. Mark's Square and the Rialto Bridge. Your adventure begins at campo San Moisè, just steps from St. Mark's Square, where you'll dive deep into the city's rich history. Follow your guide as they lead you through a labyrinth of narrow alleys, charming squares or 'campi,' and regale you with captivating tales of Venice's past and the local Venetian dialect. Take a moment to stand before the magnificent La Fenice opera house, where you'll uncover its remarkable yet tumultuous history. Marvel at the Bovolo Staircase, a Renaissance masterpiece and one of Venice's most exquisite architectural treasures. This captivating and intricate spiral staircase is a part of the Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo, dating back to 1499 and nestled near Campo Manin

    20 minutes Admission ticket not included
  • 2

    Santa Maria Formosa, nestled in the heart of Venice, Italy, is a picturesque square renowned for its rich history and enchanting ambiance. Dominating the square's center stands the magnificent Santa Maria Formosa Church, a timeless architectural wonder dating back to the 15th century. The church's façade, a harmonious blend of Byzantine and Renaissance styles, captivates all who behold it, making it a must-see for visitors. Encircled by graceful edifices and labyrinthine alleyways, Santa Maria Formosa emanates the quintessential charm of Venice, offering a serene respite from the city's lively energy. It serves as an ideal locale for leisurely strolls, immersing oneself in the local atmosphere, and savoring the unique allure of Venice. Aptly named "Formosa," which translates to "beautiful" in Italian, the square lives up to its moniker, etching an unforgettable memory in the hearts of all who have the privilege of experiencing its splendor

    20 minutes Admission ticket not included
  • 3

    The Rialto Bridge, a Venice icon, gracefully spans the Grand Canal, uniting the districts of San Marco and San Polo. Adorned with its elegant arches and charming shops that line its sides, the bridge embodies the essence of Venetian beauty and history. Dating back to the 16th century, it proudly holds the distinction of being one of Venice's oldest and most renowned bridges, drawing visitors from every corner of the globe. Gazing from the Rialto Bridge, one is treated to awe-inspiring vistas of the bustling Grand Canal, where gondolas and boats weave through its waters. It endures as a symbol of Venice's storied heritage, an essential stop for all who wish to explore this captivating city

    20 minutes Admission ticket not included
  • 4

    Flowing at the heart of Venice, the Grand Canal stands as a breathtaking spectacle. Stretching over 2 miles and shaped like a graceful, meandering "S," this iconic watercourse threads its way through the city, forming vital connections between enchanting neighborhoods and serving as a stage for Venice's architectural marvels. Embarking on a voyage along the Grand Canal unveils a tapestry of grandeur, with palaces, churches, and buildings gracing its banks. These structures, resplendent in their intricate designs, boast colorful facades and exquisite details, each a testament to centuries of Venetian history and cultural opulence. As you glide serenely atop the glistening waters, immerse yourself in the lively pulse of Venetian life. Behold the graceful gondolas and vaporettos gracefully navigating the canal's arteries, ferrying both locals and travelers to their respective destinations, in a vibrant and ever-moving dance.

    20 minutes Admission ticket not included
  • 5

    In the latter part of the 18th century, Venice boasted a total of seven venerable theaters, two of which were dedicated to the dramatic arts, while the remaining five celebrated the world of music. Among this prestigious array of venues, none shone brighter than the Teatro San Benedetto, situated in the vicinity of Campo San Luca. Its origins traced back to its establishment by the illustrious Grimani family in 1755, although later, the reins were passed into the hands of the Noble Society of boxholders. However, a significant turn of events unfolded in 1787, marked by a judicial agreement that led to the expulsion of the society from their cherished theater. They were obliged to surrender this hallowed stage to the Venier nobility, who held ownership of the land upon which the edifice stood. In response, the society embarked on an ambitious endeavor to erect a new, grander theater, which they aptly christened the Gran Teatro La Fenice.

    20 minutes Admission ticket not included
  • 6

    Numerous place names in Venice evoke the city's historical ties to horticultural activities and areas teeming with vegetation. Examples include the campi, campazzi, grassy courtyards, and the calluses of the fig tree. The first documented reference to the Rio dell'Alboro dates back to 1696, while the Rio de le Ostreghe appears in records during the subsequent century. It is likely that vendors of these delectable seafood creatures once plied their trade in the vicinity. The cultivation of such seafood, especially in the lagoon, experienced significant growth, particularly in the first half of the 19th century.

    20 minutes Admission ticket not included

Additional info

  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Children up to 2 years old do not pay, only if they do not occupy a seat on the gondola
  • The gondola ride is not private but is shared with other participants.
  • Each gondola can accommodate a maximum of 5 individuals.
Supplied by MOVE VENEZIA

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Tags

Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Gondola Cruises
Water Tours
Likely to Sell Out
Small Group
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Rating

3.2 Based on 5 5 reviews
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