Venice , Italy

Venice Kickstart Private Tour

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(60 reviews)

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

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About this experience

Welcome to Venice! Want to know the best places to eat? Which places to go to and which to avoid? Or simply get some help to navigate the city and better plan your stay? Book this private tour and get the perfect introduction to Venice!
First time in Venice? Wondering where to go and what to see in this fascinating city? Kickstart your time in Venice with 2 hours introduction to the city with the help of top rated guide. This tour is the city overview you were looking for that brings together sights of main highlights and attractions, plus must-have tips and tricks that will help you get acquainted with the city, its people, and culture.
So, ready to start your time in Venice in the best way possible? On this private tour, you’ll meet up with the local guide at your hotel and any place you prefer and have a tailor-made experience.
Any questions? Book the tour and ask before your trip about anything that pops into your mind and get all the answers you need for the perfect Venice trip.

Available options

Venice Kickstart Private Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Licensed Tour Guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

We will jump over centuries to understand how the lagoon have been shaped by the Republic of Venice to its own purposes and survival, creating herculean barriers from the sea, deviating rivers while keeping a delicate balance between human intervention and natural events.

Discover how the Venetian lagoon is connected with the Adriatic Sea through three port inlets, allowing the exchange of waters to enter and exit from the Adriatic Sea at the rhythm of the tides.
This cyclical movement performs an indispensable function for the balance of its ecosystem: high tide becomes a problem for Venice only when it exceeds the level of 80 cm, the limit beyond we can speak of "Acqua Alta" ("High water")

Understand the complicated mix of phenomena causing Acqua Alta and why some are predictable and others much less. You will discover why rain has nothing do to with it and how lunar phases and astronomical tides, strong winds low pressure plays a much bigger role.

You will get explained how is possible that with 80 cm tides your feet keep dry and why a tide of 140cm is impacting the city so hardly.

Get back to the 60s, when a tragedy renamed the "aqua granda" occurred due to an exceptional wave of bad weather hitting all of Italy. Back those days Venice experienced one of the most tragic days in its history, with the tide reaching the highest peak ever recorded in the history. We will understand how this event impacted the development of the city and life of its inhabitants in the following decades.

Stop 6

Venice experienced a similar situation on the evening in 2019, making clear that natural events are more and more linked with global climate changes and over tourism exploiting the city. We will understand more about what happened visiting some places heavily impacted back on those days.

Stop 7

Venice experienced a dramatic situation also at the end of 2019, making clear that natural events are more and more linked with global climate changes and over tourism exploiting the city. We will understand more about what happened visiting some places heavily impacted back on those days.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN IT ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

60 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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

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