Getting around Venice’s maze of canals and alleyways is best done with a knowledgeable guide. While the main tourist routes are worthwhile, it’s the hidden neighborhoods and local corners that make this city truly special. Three types of tours stand out: walking tours through quiet residential areas like Cannaregio (where you’ll meet real Venetians), sunset Grand Canal cruises (perfect for photography and avoiding daytime crowds), and food tours sampling cicchetti (Venetian tapas) at authentic bacari bars.
Skip-the-line access to popular sites like the Doge’s Palace saves precious vacation time, while GPS-guided tours let independent travelers explore at their own pace. For families, private guides keep kids engaged with stories of masked balls and merchant traders.
Let’s look at the most rewarding Venice tours for your time and money.
Key Points
- Off the Beaten Track Tours offer private city explorations of Dorsoduro, boat tours through lesser-known canals, and free cancellation options.
- Unique Evening Experiences include a Sunset Boat Cruise along the Grand Canal and a Self-Guided Evening City Tour for flexible nighttime exploration.
- Historical Walking Tours in Verona cover must-see landmarks with local expert guides, suitable for first-time visitors.
- Comprehensive City Explorations provide access to Doges Palace with a GPS-navigated app and an in-person guide.
- Family-Friendly and Culinary Tours feature a Private City Tour with a high recommendation rate and a Tasty Street Food Tour highlighting Venetian specialties.
Off the Beaten Track in Venice: Private City Tour
For travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path exploration of Venice, the Private City Tour offers an engaging deep dive into the city’s rich history and culture.
With a 98% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this private tour takes participants through the lesser-known Dorsoduro district, showcasing unique experiences like a boat tour through the canals.
Guided by knowledgeable locals, the tour provides historical and cultural insights, as well as personalized recommendations for dining and attractions.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and offers free cancellation and rescheduling.
While some customers have reported issues with last-minute cancellations, the tour operator is committed to resolving any service shortcomings and ensuring customer satisfaction.
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Venice: Sunset Boat Cruise and Self-Guided Evening City Tour
Exploring Venice after sunset takes on a captivating allure, and the Sunset Boat Cruise and Self-Guided Evening City Tour offers an enchanting way to experience the city’s ambiance at this magical time.
The 75-minute boat cruise along the Grand Canal allows you to witness the city’s iconic landmarks bathed in golden light, while a self-guided evening tour provides the flexibility to explore at your own pace.
With prices starting at $36.99 per person, this experience combines the tranquility of a boat ride with the freedom to discover Venice’s charming streets and piazzas after dark, creating an unforgettable evening.
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Verona City Sightseeing Walking Tour of Must-See Sites With Local Guide
Though Verona is renowned for its Shakespearean connections, the city offers a wealth of historic landmarks and charming neighborhoods waiting to be discovered.
The Verona City Sightseeing Walking Tour provides an immersive exploration of the city’s must-see sites with the guidance of a local expert. Covering major landmarks like the balcony from Romeo and Juliet, the tour offers fascinating trivia and stories that bring the city’s history to life.
Suitable for most travelers, the tour’s flexible logistics, including pickup and drop-off, make it an accessible and convenient option.
With a high recommendation rate and positive reviews, this walking tour is an excellent choice for first-time visitors to Verona.
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Doges Palace Entry With Venice City Walking Tour With an APP
The Doges Palace Entry With Venice City Walking Tour With an APP offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the historic heart of Venice. Priced from $8.99 to $9.99 per person, the 5-hour tour includes admission to top attractions like the Doge’s Palace, Museo Correr, and more.
Using a GPS-navigated app, over 60 narration points guide participants through popular and hidden gems, such as St. Mark’s Basilica, the Rialto Bridge, and the Jewish Ghetto. An in-person guide is included, and the tour allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
While the app can drain smartphone batteries, it provides valuable insights and a convenient way to explore Venice’s rich history and architecture.
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Family Friendly Venice Private City Tour
For families looking to uncover the rich history and culture of Venice in an engaging way, the Family Friendly Venice Private City Tour offers a tailored experience.
With a 93% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, this private tour promises an enjoyable outing for both children and adults. Highlights include interactive activities like scavenger hunts, rewards of Venetian street food and gelato, and knowledgeable guides who connect with young participants.
However, some reviews suggest inconsistent experiences, with a few guides lacking enthusiasm. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and there’s a €5 access fee for non-residents on certain dates.
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Full Day Excursion By Bus To Venice: The Floating City
Offering a comprehensive exploration of the iconic Floating City, the Full Day Excursion By Bus To Venice: The Floating City whisks visitors on a 14-hour journey through the winding streets and canals of this historic Italian gem.
Priced from $184.23 per person, this tour provides a hassle-free experience, with roundtrip transportation by luxury coach and an expert multilingual escort.
Highlights include visits to Piazza San Marco, San Marco Basilica, and Palazzo Ducale, plus a glass blowing demonstration.
Participants can also opt for a gondola ride to see the city from a unique vantage point.
With free cancellation and no upfront payment required, this tour is an ideal way to discover the best of Venice.
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Venice Ghost & Legends Walking City Tour
Venturing beyond the comprehensive day excursions through Venice’s iconic sites, the Venice Ghost & Legends Walking City Tour offers a captivating evening exploration of the city’s darker history.
Rated 3.5 out of 5 based on 79 reviews, this 79 walking tour takes participants through the Cannaregio and Castello districts, uncovering tales of murders, mysteries, and supernatural occurrences.
Led by qualified local guides with live commentary in multiple languages, the tour provides personal audio systems and headsets for easy listening.
While some reviews note a lack of engagement or enthusiasm from guides, the tour generally receives positive feedback for its interesting stories and knowledgeable hosts.
With a maximum group size of 20 and an optional gondola ride, this evening experience provides an immersive glimpse into Venice’s spookier side.
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Venice: City Wonders Group Walking Tour With a Guide
Setting out on a comprehensive exploration of Venice’s iconic landmarks, the Venice: City Wonders Group Walking Tour with a Guide offers a captivating 2-hour experience.
At just $31.71 per person, this small-group tour takes visitors through the city’s highlights, including the Rialto Bridge, St. Mark’s Square, and the Dorsoduro district.
With an English-speaking guide providing insightful commentary, guests will learn about local history and culture. Customer reviews praise the knowledgeable and engaging guides, who also offer food recommendations.
While not suitable for wheelchair users, the tour’s meeting point is a 20-minute walk from St. Mark’s Square, allowing ample time for arrival, especially by boat.
Boasting an impressive 4.8/5 rating, this walking tour is a must-do for those seeking an immersive introduction to the wonders of Venice.
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Tasty Street Food Tour of Venice City Center With Cicchetti & Local Specialties
This vibrant street food tour provides travelers a mouthwatering introduction to the local flavors of Venice.
Exploring the Rialto market and historic neighborhoods, participants enjoy Venetian specialties and ‘cicchetti’ (small plates served tapas-style) on this small-group walking tour.
With a badge of excellence and 100% traveler recommendation, the tour features ample food tastings, often enough to skip dinner.
Guides provide historical context and insights about Venetian culture and cuisine, while accommodating dietary restrictions.
Consistently high-rated, the tour highlights include the variety of tastings, hidden gems of Venice, and engaging storytelling from knowledgeable and friendly guides.
Comfortable footwear is advised due to uneven paths.
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Venice: City Highlights and Hidden Gems Walking Tour
Immersing visitors in the captivating essence of Venice, the “Venice: City Highlights and Hidden Gems Walking Tour” offers a comprehensive introduction to the city’s renowned landmarks and lesser-known treasures.
Spanning 2 hours, this guided tour invites travelers to explore the iconic San Marco district, uncovering architectural gems like the Scala Contarini del Bovolo and the Baroque San Moisè Church.
Led by knowledgeable local guides, the experience provides insights into Venice’s rich history and culture. Priced at $28.54 per person, the tour allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Complementing the live exploration, a sightseeing app grants further independent exploration, ensuring an immersive and well-rounded discovery of this enchanting city.
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Morning Magic: Venice City Walk and Gondola Tour
Kicking off the day with a captivating blend of walking and gondola exploration, the “Morning Magic: Venice City Walk and Gondola Tour” offers visitors an exceptional opportunity to enjoy the heart of Venice.
This 4.5-star rated tour includes a guided walk through Piazza San Marco and Castello, followed by a serene gondola ride along the Grand Canal and minor waterways.
Priced at $156.18 per person, the tour provides personal audio systems, hotel pickup and drop-off, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
While museum visits and food aren’t included, this comprehensive package promises an unforgettable morning of Venetian magic.
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The City Discovery Game – The Alternative Tour of Venice
For those seeking a unique and engaging exploration of Venice, the “The City Discovery Game – The Alternative Tour of Venice” offers a captivating twist on the traditional city tour.
This self-guided adventure invites visitors to become active participants, solving puzzles and completing challenges that reveal the city’s hidden gems.
Navigating through Venice’s winding streets and charming canals, participants uncover stories, unravel mysteries, and gain a deeper understanding of the city’s rich history and culture.
With the help of a detailed map and clues, this alternative tour encourages independent discovery, fostering a sense of exploration and accomplishment.
Whether traveling solo or in a group, the “The City Discovery Game” promises an unforgettable and interactive way to experience the enchanting city of Venice.
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Venice: Guided City Highlights and Street Food Tour
This guided Venice Street Food Tour offers a captivating culinary experience that allows visitors to savor the authentic flavors of the city.
Over 2.5 hours, English-speaking guides lead participants on a mouthwatering journey through Venice’s historic landmarks and vibrant food scene. Theres some good Venetian tapas, cheeses, and desserts, while learning about the city’s gastronomic heritage.
The tour is priced at $50.73 per person and can be booked with free cancellation or reserve-now-pay-later options. However, it may not be suitable for those with dietary restrictions or accessibility needs.
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Venice: Heart of the Floating City Self-Guided Walking Tour
Travelers seeking an immersive exploration of Venice’s captivating heart can embark on the self-guided “Heart of the Floating City” walking tour.
This 2-3 hour experience allows visitors to discover the city’s iconic landmarks, such as the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica, at their own pace.
With skip-the-line access, travelers can avoid lengthy queues and maximize their time.
The tour also includes entry to the Leonardo da Vinci Museum, providing an opportunity to explore the genius of the Renaissance polymath.
Combining convenience, flexibility, and cultural enrichment, this self-guided tour is an excellent choice for those eager to enjoy the essence of Venice’s historic center.
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Venice: Walking Guided Tour of the City Must-See Sites
Visitors can embark on a guided walking tour to explore Venice’s must-see sites, providing an immersive experience of the city’s iconic landmarks.
The 2-hour tour takes guests to places like Rialto Bridge, St. Mark’s Square, and the House of Marco Polo, with a knowledgeable local guide sharing insights and anecdotes along the way.
Priced from $31.71 per person, the small group tour offers excellent value, with positive reviews highlighting the guide’s expertise and ability to access lesser-known areas.
Wheelchair users and those with certain medical conditions may not be suitable for this tour, but it’s an ideal choice for couples, families, and solo travelers seeking an engaging introduction to the heart of the floating city.
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Venice: City Tour & Skip the Line for St. Marks Basilica
For those seeking an immersive exploration of Venice’s captivating landmarks and hidden gems, the Venice: City Tour & Skip the Line for St. Marks Basilica is an enticing option.
Priced from $30.65 per person, this 1.5-hour guided tour promises to whisk visitors through the city’s architectural marvels, including St. Mark’s Square and Basilica, Marco Polo’s residence, and the historic Teatro Malibran.
With skip-the-line access to St. Mark’s Basilica, guests can delve deeper into the city’s rich history. Reviews praise the engaging guides, though some noted language barriers during the basilica tour.
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Venice: City Highlights Tour With St Marks and Gondola Ride
Although offering a more comprehensive experience, the Venice: City Highlights Tour with St Marks and Gondola Ride carries a higher price tag than the previous option at €67.20 per person.
This 3-hour English-language tour takes visitors through Cannaregio, St. Mark’s Basilica, the Rialto Market, Rialto Bridge, and Marco Polo’s House.
Highlights include a 30-minute gondola ride and skip-the-line access to St. Mark’s. The tour provides a local expert guide, headsets for clear communication, and a professional gondolier.
Guests should wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves significant walking. While not suitable for those with mobility issues, the tour earns strong reviews for its knowledgeable guides and value-packed itinerary.
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Venice: Private City Tour
The Venice: Private City Tour offers a comprehensive and personalized exploration of the city’s rich history and iconic landmarks. Priced from $231.45 per person, this 2-2.5 hour tour provides a flexible, skip-the-line experience led by a private, licensed guide.
Highlights include a panoramic tour of St. Mark’s Square, visits to St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace, and a passage through the Bridge of Sighs. Guests can also opt for a gondola ride.
The tour is available in multiple languages and features high-quality service, though it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues. With a 4.4/5 overall rating, this tour delivers excellent value and an immersive introduction to the Serenissima Republic.
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Venice: Off the Beaten Track Private City Tour
Travelers seeking to delve deeper into Venice’s local culture and lesser-known gems will find the Venice: Off the Beaten Track Private City Tour an enticing option.
Priced from $121.54 per person, this 2.5-hour private tour takes visitors through the trendy Dorsoduro neighborhood, showcasing local lifestyles and hidden architectural wonders away from the tourist crowds.
With an engaging local guide, the experience promises exciting stories and insights into the city’s vibrant street art and points of interest like Palazzo Zenobio degli Armeni and San Giorgio Island.
While not suitable for those with mobility issues, the tour is highly rated for its value, organization, and knowledgeable guides who deliver a unique Venetian adventure.
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Venice: Secret City Gardens Walking Tour
Exploring the hidden gardens of Venice, the Secret City Gardens Walking Tour takes visitors on a captivating 2-hour journey through the city’s lush, private green spaces.
Priced at £58.96 per person, the tour is available in English, Spanish, German and Italian for private or small groups. Guests will discover over 500 hidden gardens, including private villas, ancient monasteries and parks, while enjoying stunning views from garden terraces.
With 4.6 out of 5 stars based on 29 reviews, the tour is led by knowledgeable guides who provide cultural and historical insights.
While food and drinks aren’t included, the tour covers entrance fees and is weather-proof, operating rain or shine.
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The Sum Up
Venice offers a variety of city tours to suit different interests and budgets. Whether you prefer a private tour to explore off-the-beaten-track destinations, a sunset boat cruise, or a family-friendly experience, there’s something for all. With options to visit the iconic Doges Palace, St. Mark’s Square, and take a gondola ride, visitors can make the most of their time in this enchanting city.