Grand Canal by Crafted Gondola with Live Commentary™
Active
30m - 50m
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
✨ Experience Venice from its most iconic perspective — a guided gondola ride paired with a journey into gondola history and tradition.
• Secrets of the Gondola Begin with a short walking tour as your expert guide reveals the fascinating history of gondolas and gondoliers, sharing hidden legends and stories passed down through generations. • Gondola Ride – Venice on Water Glide through quiet canals and iconic sights like Mozart’s House, La Fenice Theatre, and the Peggy Guggenheim Collection. Sail past the domes of the Salute Church and Punta della Dogana, ending with breathtaking views of St. Mark’s Campanile and the Doge’s Palace. • Gondola Gallery – History & Innovation Step inside a Venetian palace to explore a real gondola up close. Touch handcrafted parts, learn how it's built, and enjoy a virtual Grand Canal journey through the ages — just like Venetian nobles once did.
© Venice Tours S.r.I. - format created by Venice Tours and licensed to City Tours Co. Ltd. All rights reserved.
Available options
Gondola Ride & Casanova Palace
English: Sail on shared gondola ride along the Grand Canal. Then visit Ca’Rezzonico, a stunning 18th-century palace from Casanova time<br/>Starting point:<br/>Venice Tours Srl Close to St.Mark’s Square, Calle S. Gallo, 1093/b, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy
Discount Gondola (1 seat)
Random Seat English Option: The guide will ASSIGN you the seat.<br/>Starting point:<br/>Venice Tours Srl Close to St.Mark’s Square, Calle S. Gallo, 1093/b, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy
Spanish - Guided gondola ride
Shared Gondola Ride<br/>Starting point:<br/>Venice Tours Srl Close to St.Mark’s Square, Calle S. Gallo, 1093/b, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy
Private Gondola Ride- No Guide
Private Gondola Ride: Private Gondola option does NOT include the commentary. <br/>Starting point:<br/>Campiello Traghetto, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy
Italian - Gondola Ride
Starting point:<br/>Venice Tours Srl Close to St.Mark’s Square, Calle S. Gallo, 1093/b, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy
French- Guided Gondola ride
Shared Gondola Ride<br/>Starting point:<br/>Venice Tours Srl Close to St.Mark’s Square, Calle S. Gallo, 1093/b, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy
English - Guided Gondola ride
Grand Canal Gondola Ride <br/>Starting point:<br/>Venice Tours Srl Close to St.Mark’s Square, Calle S. Gallo, 1093/b, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy
English: St. Mark Gondola
Bridge of Sighs Gondola Ride<br/>Starting point:<br/>Venice Tours, Calle de le Rasse, 4536, 30122 Venezia VE, Italy
What's included
PRIVATE GONDOLA RIDE OPTION: 30 minutes gondola ride WITHOUT commentary
Journey in the past by gondola Virtual Reality Experience (not included in the private option)
SHARED GONDOLA RIDE OPTION: Live commentary in English, French and Spanish
SHARED GONDOLA RIDE OPTION: 30 minutes gondola ride with commentary
SHARED GONDOLA RIDE OPTION:App commentary in Italian, German, Japanese, Chinese, Hindi and Russian
SHARED GONDOLA RIDE OPTION: 20 minutes walking introduction to the gondola experience
Gondola Gallery: a unique vr experience of venice in the past (not included in the private option)
Detailed itinerary
1
We will pass trough the Gran Canal terrace of Ca Giustinian, one of the oldest Palace overlooking the Canal Grande.
2
Close to San Marco Square, in front of St Moise (Moses) Church and the Gondola station, the guide will introduce you in the elegant and romantic world of the Gondolas.
3
Stop 3
Pass by
Once one of 7 major theatres in the city, today the Fenice is Venice’s one and only opera house. It is surely a jewel among European theatres, and began to shine from the beginning, as the best composers of the age wrote and performed their operas here, among which Bellini, Donizetti and Rossini. But it was Giuseppe Verdi who is most attached to the Fenice and to Venetian memory.
4
Stop 4
Pass by
The most beautiful road in the world”, this is how the Grand Canal is known as. If you look around, what you will see is almost exactly what a nobleman in the 18th century might have looked upon, and before him a Renaissance courtesan and before him a merchant in the Middle Ages.
5
Stop 5
Pass by
Here, as you come into the Grand Canal you admire the church of the Madonna della Salute.
The first thing that strikes a viewer is how imposing the church is, strategically placed at the entrance of the Grand Canal looking out onto the rest of the city in every direction, thanks to its circular shape.
Today, ever 21 November the city celebrates the Madonna della Salute in memory of the end of the plague
6
Punta della Dogana separates the Grand Canal from the Giudecca Canal. For its strategic location it was the house of the Custom and of the Salt Warehouses. During the fifteenth century, the Sea Customs House, which had previously been near the Arsenale, was transferred to the western point of Dorsoduro borough.
7
Stop 7
Pass by
You will have a view of the Island of san Giorgio Maggiore, with its beautiful Renaissance Church built by Palladio in the Renaissance and the belltower resembling the bigger one in St Mark’s Square. The island was once known as the Island of Cypress Trees before it became an important Benedectine monastery.
8
At the end you will enjoy a wonderful overview of Saint Mark’s Square. This is a spot which painters from all over the world have tried to capture in its uniqueness, but we can only recommend that you sit back and take it all in.
What's not included
Hotel pickup
Audio devices
Earphones
Available languages
Audio guide
DE
ZH-TW
RU
JA
IT
Written guide
DE
ZH-TW
RU
JA
IT
Guide guide
EN
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
3.5
1,685 reviews
5★
633
4★
293
3★
291
2★
208
1★
260
Tripadvisor
4.1
2,432 reviews
5★
1509
4★
328
3★
252
2★
135
1★
208
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Each gondola can host maximum 5 people; the seat aboard cannot be chosen but will be assigned by the gondolier depending of guests weight.
The Gondola Ride does not operate in case of exceptionally bad weather or high/low tide (in these cases it can be postponed the days after otherwise it will be refunded)
The itinerary may change in the event of wind or bad weather
The guide will be only on one gondola, the participants on the others gondola will listen to her/him with the audio-devices
The live commentary will be only in English, French and Spanish. The commentary on German, Japanese, Chinese, Hindi, and Russian will be provided by mobile app downloaded on the own devices.
The live commentary IS NOT included in the PRIVATE OPTION
Please be at the meeting point 10 minutes before the departure time
On certain dates, most travelers staying outside of Venice who are planning to visit for the day will be required to pay a €5 access fee. For further details (including exemptions) and to learn what days this fee is applicable, please visit: https://cda.ve.it
SHARED GONDOLA RIDE OPTION (if option is selected): 20 minutes walking introduction to the gondola experience and 30 minutes shared gondola ride
Please note that the activity may follow two different itineraries, the Grand Canal or St. Mark’s Basin, depending on the option chosen.
Meeting point
From St. Mark’s Square, face the Basilica and turn right towards the Doge’s Palace. Continue past the Bridge of Sighs to Riva degli Schiavoni (the waterfront promenade). Walk for 2 minutes, then turn left into Calle de le Rasse. The Venice Tours Office is at number 4536.
Important notes
- Each gondola can host maximum 5 people; the seat aboard cannot be chosen but will be assigned by the gondolier depending of guests weight.
- The Gondola Ride does not operate in case of exceptionally bad weather or high/low tide (in these cases it can be postponed the days after otherwise it will be refunded)
- The itinerary may change in the event of wind or bad weather
- The guide will be only on one gondola, the participants on the others gondola will listen to her/him with the audio-devices
- The live commentary will be only in English, French, Spanish. The commentary in Italian, German, Japanese, Chinese, Hindi, and Russian will be provided by mobile app downloaded on the own devices.
- The commentary IS NOT included in the PRIVATE OPTION
- SHARED GONDOLA RIDE OPTION (if option is selected): 20 minutes walking introduction to the gondola experience and 30 minutes shared gondola ride
About Venice
Venice is a unique and enchanting city built on more than 100 small islands in a lagoon in the Adriatic Sea. Known for its canals, gondolas, and stunning architecture, Venice is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit destination for its rich history, art, and culture. The city offers a romantic and timeless atmosphere that captivates visitors from around the world.
Top Attractions
St. Mark's Basilica
A stunning Byzantine cathedral known for its opulent design, golden mosaics, and historical significance. It is one of the most iconic landmarks in Venice.
Historical/Religious
1-2 hours
Free entry, €3 for museum and treasury
Doge's Palace
A masterpiece of Gothic architecture, the Doge's Palace was the residence of the Doge of Venice and the seat of Venetian government. It offers a glimpse into the city's political and cultural history.
Historical/Architecture
1-2 hours
€25 for standard ticket, €30 for Secret Itineraries Tour
Rialto Bridge
The oldest and most famous of Venice's four bridges spanning the Grand Canal, the Rialto Bridge is an iconic symbol of the city.
Architecture
30 minutes
Free
Grand Canal
The main waterway of Venice, the Grand Canal is lined with beautiful palaces, churches, and historic buildings. A vaporetto ride along the canal offers stunning views.
Nature/Scenic
30-60 minutes
€7.50 for a vaporetto ticket
Murano
An island famous for its glass-making tradition. Visitors can watch artisans at work and purchase unique glass souvenirs.
Cultural/Historical
Half-day
Free to explore, €10 for museum
Burano
A colorful island known for its lace-making tradition and picturesque houses. Burano is a charming and photogenic destination.
Cultural/Scenic
Half-day
Free to explore, €5 for lace museum
Must-Try Local Dishes
Risotto al Nero di Seppia
A risotto made with cuttlefish ink, giving it a distinctive black color and rich, briny flavor.
Main Course
Contains seafood, not suitable for vegetarians or those with seafood allergies.
Sarde in Saor
Sweet and sour sardines marinated with onions, raisins, pine nuts, and vinegar.
Appetizer
Contains fish, not suitable for vegetarians.
Bigoli in Salsa
Pasta with a sauce made from anchovies, onions, and breadcrumbs.
Main Course
Contains fish, not suitable for vegetarians.
Frito Misto
A mix of fried seafood and vegetables, including shrimp, squid, and zucchini.
Appetizer
Contains seafood, not suitable for vegetarians.
Popular Activities
Kayaking in the canals
Cycling on Lido di Venezia
Hiking in the Venetian Lagoon
Sunbathing on Lido di Venezia
Enjoying a gondola ride
Visiting a spa or wellness center
Attending a concert or opera
Visiting museums and galleries
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to October
These months offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds compared to the summer peak. The city is vibrant with events and festivals, and the temperatures are comfortable for exploring.
15°C to 28°C
59°F to 82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Italian
- Widely spoken: English, French, German
- English: Widely spoken in tourist areas, moderately spoken in local areas
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET), GMT+2 (Central European Summer Time, CEST) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Venice is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, pickpocketing and petty theft can occur in crowded areas, and acqua alta (high water) events can disrupt travel plans.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings
- • Use official taxis and ticket vendors
- • Be cautious of strangers approaching you with offers or requests
Getting there
By air
- Venice Marco Polo Airport • 12 km from city center
By train
Santa Lucia Railway Station
By bus
Piazzale Roma
Getting around
Public transport
The vaporetto is the main public transport system in Venice. It operates on fixed routes and is the most convenient way to get around.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber (limited availability), Local taxi apps
Rentals
Neighborhoods
San Marco
Dorsoduro
Cannaregio
Castello
Day trips
Burano and Murano
10-45 minutes by vaporetto • Half-day to full day
Visit the colorful island of Burano and the glass-making island of Murano for a unique and picturesque day trip.
Lido di Venezia
20 minutes by vaporetto • Half-day to full day
A long, narrow island between the Venetian Lagoon and the Adriatic Sea, known for its beaches, the Venice Film Festival, and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Padua (Padova)
40 km (25 miles) • Half-day to full day
A charming city known for its beautiful architecture, historic sites, and the famous Scrovegni Chapel with its stunning frescoes by Giotto.
Festivals
Venice Carnival • February or March (dates vary)
Venice Film Festival • Late August to early September
Festa del Redentore • Third weekend of July
Pro tips
- Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
- Explore the city's lesser-known neighborhoods and hidden gems for a more authentic experience
- Try local specialties and dishes, and ask locals for recommendations
- Use a map or GPS to navigate the intricate streets and canals, as Venice can be easy to get lost in
- Be prepared for acqua alta (high water) events, especially from October to January, and check forecasts and plan accordingly
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
