Saint Mark's Basilica Guided Tour with Gondola Ride in Venice
Active
1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore Venice’s rich heritage with a skip-the-line guided tour of Saint Mark’s Basilica, famous for its breathtaking golden mosaics and Byzantine art.
Your expert guide will reveal the history behind the biblical scenes, marble inlays, and unique architecture. After the tour, enjoy a peaceful 30-minute gondola ride through Venice’s hidden canals and onto the Grand Canal.
Admire landmarks like the Rialto Bridge, Mozart’s home, and the elegant palaces lining the waterways.
This combo offers the perfect mix of art, history, and classic Venetian charm.
Available options
Spanish Guided Tour
Gondola Ride Tour at 15:00: The Gondola Ride tour takes place at 15:00 after the St Mark's Basilica tour.<br/>Tour Time and Meeting Point: The guided tour includes a St Mark's Basilica tour from 10:45 to 11:45, followed by Gondola Ride from 15:00 to 15:30.<br/>Meeting Point Information: Please note that the meeting point remains the same for both tours — Please return to the same location for the Gondola Ride
English Guided Tour
Gondola Ride Tour at 15:00: The Gondola Ride tour takes place at 15:00 after the St Mark's Basilica tour.<br/>Tour Time and Meeting Point: The guided tour includes a St Mark's Basilica tour from 10:45 to 11:45, followed by Gondola Ride from 15:00 to 15:30.<br/>Meeting Point Information: Please note that the meeting point remains the same for both tours — Please return to the same location for the Gondola Ride
German Guided Tour
Gondola Ride Tour at 15:00: The Gondola Ride tour takes place at 15:00 after the St Mark's Basilica tour.<br/>Tour Time and Meeting Point: The guided tour includes a St Mark's Basilica tour from 10:45 to 11:45, followed by Gondola Ride from 15:00 to 15:30.<br/>Meeting Point Information: Please note that the meeting point remains the same for both tours — Please return to the same location for the Gondola Ride
French Guided Tour
Gondola Ride Tour at 15:00: The Gondola Ride tour takes place at 15:00 after the St Mark's Basilica tour.<br/>Tour Time and Meeting Point: The guided tour includes a St Mark's Basilica tour from 10:45 to 11:45, followed by Gondola Ride from 15:00 to 15:30.<br/>Meeting Point Information: Please note that the meeting point remains the same for both tours — Please return to the same location for the Gondola Ride
What's included
30 minutes shared Gondola Ride
Official certified guide
Tickets and Reservations to Saint Mark's Bascilica
Radio system to hear the guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Begin your journey with skip-the-line access to Saint Mark’s Basilica, Venice’s most iconic cathedral. As you step inside the “Golden Church,” your expert guide will introduce you to its breathtaking Byzantine mosaics, covering over 8,000 square meters.
These stunning artworks, unique in Italy, bring to life scenes from the Old Testament with vibrant color and intricate detail. As you walk through the atrium and along the intricately inlaid marble floors, the guide will explain the basilica’s deep religious and historical significance.
Learn about the architectural evolution, hidden symbols, and centuries of devotion that shaped this sacred space.
The tour concludes at the St. Mark’s Museum, where you are welcome to stay and explore more at your own pace, making it a relaxed and enriching experience.
2
After your basilica visit, unwind with a tranquil 30-minute gondola ride through Venice’s enchanting canals. Your journey begins on quiet waterways, passing charming sights like Mozart’s home along Rio dei Barcaroli and the scenic Rio dell’Ovo.
Soon, you’ll glide onto the majestic Grand Canal, where you’ll see the iconic Rialto Bridge to your right—a marvel of Renaissance engineering.
On the left, admire historic buildings such as Ca' Farsetti and Palazzo Grimani, each steeped in Venetian history. Continue through Rio San Luca, passing under the Ponte del Teatro and Ponte di San Paternian, and catch a glimpse of Palazzo Manin, once home to the last Doge of Venice.
The ride ends back at your starting point—a peaceful, picture-perfect way to see Venice from the water.
What's not included
Food and drinks
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Transportation to/from attractions
Entrance tickets to the attractions are not mentioned in the inclusions
Gondola ride is not guided
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photography is not allowed only inside the Cathedral.
Please wear clothes that cover your shoulders and are knee-length to access St Mark’s Basilica, otherwise you might not be allowed in.
For security reasons sacks, bags or knapsacks are not allowed inside the Basilica.
The storage service is free of charge but please allow sufficient time to do so.
The tour does not operate in case of exceptional high tide or in case of religious functions (in these cases it can be rearranged or refunded).
Subject to favourable weather conditions. If cancelled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date or full refund.
In the event of adverse weather conditions, the Gondola Ride tour may vary in duration or itinerary.
Please wear comfortable walking shoes as there is a moderate amount of walking involved.
Please note that the tour requires a minimum number of two guests to run.
Please note that if you arrive after the tour start time you will not be able to join and will not be refunded or have your tour rescheduled.
There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements, in the event of this occurring you will be offered an alternative or full refund.
Note that smoking is not allowed on the boat.
It is not possible to bring bulky baggage of more than 16 liters in size onto the boat.
Please note that the 10:45AM tour includes the guided Saint Mark's Basilica tour. The Gondola Ride tour will take place at 15:00 from the same meeting point. Make sure to return to the meeting location on time for the Gondola Ride tour.
Unfortunately, wheelchairs and strollers cannot be accommodated on this tour. All customers must be able to autonomously walk, climb and get off the steps.
Meeting point
Please meet your guide in front of the wooden souvenir kiosk, just behind the Correr Museum in Piazza San Marco, next to the entrance to the post office.
Important notes
Meeting point Details
• The entrance tickets to the St. Mark's Basilica will be delivered by the guide or our representative at the meeting point prior to the start of the tour.
• Gondola Ride Meeting Point - Please meet your guide in front of the wooden souvenir kiosk (Calle larga de l'Ascension, 1257, 30124 Venezia IT), just behind the Correr Museum in Piazza San Marco, next to the entrance to the post office.
• Please note that the 10:45AM tour includes the guided Saint Mark's Basilica tour. The Gondola Ride tour will take place at 15:00 from the same meeting point. Make sure to return to the meeting location on time for the Gondola Ride tour.
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
