Dante in Venice Secrets of the Divine Comedy

Venice , Italy

Dante in Venice Secrets of the Divine Comedy

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About this experience

Step into the world of Dante Alighieri and discover how Venice shaped his literary genius. From his brief stay in the city to the places that inspired his vision of the afterlife, this tour uncovers the hidden Dante within the Venetian landscape. Explore his connections to the city and see Venice through the eyes of the poet who immortalized it in his Divine Comedy.

Explore the hidden connections between Dante Alighieri and Venice on this immersive walking tour. This immersive walking tour takes you to key landmarks linked to Dante’s journey, including the Palazzo Soranzo, where Dante was hosted as an ambassador, and the Arsenale, which inspired scenes in Inferno. Visit sites like the Church of San Giacomo di Rialto and Campo Santa Maria Formosa, hearing readings from the Divine Comedy along the way. Learn about Dante's life in exile, the political climate of Venice, and the lasting impact of his work on the city's culture.

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Dante in Venice Secrets of the Divine Comedy

Pickup included

What's included

Top-rated licensed tour guide

Detailed itinerary

Campo San Polo: The Soranzo Legacy:
Begin the tour in Campo San Polo, one of Venice’s largest squares, dominated by the Palazzo Soranzo. Here, Dante was hosted in 1321 during his diplomatic mission on behalf of Guido Novello da Polenta, the lord of Ravenna. Learn about the Soranzo family and the historical context of Dante’s visit to Venice.

Church of San Giacomo di Rialto: The Heart of Venetian Trade

Head to the Church of San Giacomo di Rialto, one of the oldest churches in Venice, located near the iconic Rialto Bridge. Dante likely visited this area during his stay, where the bustling mercantile activity would have shaped his view of Venice. Discuss the significance of trade and commerce in Dante’s time and how it ties into his view of the world in the Divine Comedy.

Stop 3

Campo Santa Maria Formosa: The Merchant’s Venice

This bustling square was a hub of commercial activity during the Middle Ages and offers a glimpse into the mercantile Venice Dante would have witnessed. Discuss the economic and political significance of the city and how it is reflected in Dante’s depiction of the Arsenale in Inferno (Canto XXI).

Stop 4

The Doge’s Palace: Dante’s Venice of Power

The heart of Venetian power, the Doge’s Palace, represents the grandeur and complexity of the Serenissima. Dante would have been struck by its magnificence, echoing the divine justice that permeates the Divine Comedy.

Riva degli Schiavoni: Reflections of Exile
Stroll along the Riva degli Schiavoni, once a thriving commercial port. Here, reflect on Dante’s life in exile, a theme central to his work, as he gazed across the sea and contemplated ideas of home and separation.

The Arsenale: Infernal Imagery in Venice
End the tour at the entrance to the Arsenale, Venice’s legendary shipyard, vividly described in Inferno (Canto XXI). Discover how Dante compares the work of the shipbuilders to infernal scenes, blending the symbolic and the real in this iconic location.

Each stop will be enriched with readings from the Divine Comedy, historical anecdotes, and connections between Dante’s legacy and Venice, creating a truly immersive cultural and literary experience.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN IT ES

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Meet the guide in Campo San Polo, near the well.

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