Venice’s best historical walking tours cut straight to the heart of this magnificent city. The Jewish Ghetto tour stands out, offering an authentic look at Europe’s first ghetto and its still-active synagogues. Inside the glittering St. Mark’s Basilica, expert guides explain the remarkable Byzantine mosaics that tell stories in gold. For something different, the Naval Historical Museum tour reveals Venice’s powerful maritime past with actual artifacts and ship models.
We especially love the Jewish Ghetto walk for its intimate glimpses into a living community, and the Golden Basilica tour for its skip-the-line access and detailed explanations of the artwork. The food history tours are another favorite, combining Venetian traditions with tastings at local bacari (wine bars).
Check out these top-rated Venice tours to explore the city’s most fascinating corners.
Key Points
- Explore Venice’s Jewish heritage, Byzantine influences, and dark history through immersive guided tours with local insights and experiences.
- Discover Venetian maritime tradition and natural history at the Naval Historical Museum and Venice Natural History Museum.
- Enjoy scenic waterway tours and artisan island explorations to gain deeper understanding of Venice’s unique craftsmanship and cultural heritage.
- Experience personalized private tours to uncover hidden gems, historic churches, and palaces in Venice’s historic center.
- Visit iconic landmarks like St. Mark’s Basilica and Bell Tower, with priority access and multimedia guides for a comprehensive cultural experience.
Historical Jewish Ghetto & Magnificent Cannaregio Private Tour
The Historical Jewish Ghetto & Magnificent Cannaregio Private Tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through the rich history and cultural heritage of Venice’s Jewish community.
Guided by a passionate local, this 5-star rated tour provides an immersive experience, with tips and suggestions to further explore the city. Available in Italian and English, the tour is accessible, though not wheelchair-friendly.
While synagogues aren’t included, tailored tours are available upon request. With a free cancellation policy and lowest price guarantee, this private tour offers an engaging and informative exploration of Venice’s Jewish Ghetto and the Cannaregio neighborhood.
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Visitors can explore Venice’s rich maritime history by securing an entrance ticket to the Naval Historical Museum (MUNAV).
Located a 5-minute walk from Piazza San Marco, this 6000-square-meter museum is housed in a 15th-century building.
Admission starts at $10.57 per person, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The museum’s collection showcases historical artifacts, ship models, paintings, and documents, focusing on Venetian maritime tradition and the Italian Navy.
While some visitors noted the lack of French translations, the overall experience is rated 4.3/5, praised for its rich content, though some found the museum austere and lacking in Venetian atmosphere.
Read our full review: Venice: Entrance Ticket to the Naval Historical Museum Review
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Motorboat Tour of Venice Grand Canal & Historic Basilica Visit
Departing from the iconic Doges Palace in Piazza San Marco, this 1.5-hour motorboat tour provides travelers an unparalleled perspective of Venice’s renowned Grand Canal and a visit to the historic San Giorgio Maggiore Basilica.
Led by an English-speaking guide, the tour allows visitors to admire the city’s iconic landmarks from the water while learning about its rich history.
With a maximum group size of 8, the intimate experience includes access to the San Giorgio Maggiore Bell Tower.
While not suitable for guests with mobility issues, the tour offers a unique and scenic way to explore Venice’s UNESCO-listed waterways and landmarks.
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Aboard the Enrico Dandolo, a Cold War-era submarine, visitors embark on a 1.5-hour immersive journey through Venice’s naval history.
This small-group experience, limited to 10 participants, allows exploration of the vessel’s control room and torpedo launching chamber.
The Enrico Dandolo, measuring 46 meters long, was one of the first four submarines designed during the Cold War, though never used offensively.
The tour includes admission to the Naval History Museum of Venice (MUNAV), the most important naval museum in Italy, showcasing 6000 square meters of maritime history across five floors.
With audio guides in multiple languages, visitors can explore Venice’s seafaring past at their own pace.
Read our full review: Venice, Submarine Enrico Dandolo and Naval History Museum Review
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The History of Venice: San Marco Highlights Private Tour
Beyond the immersive submarine experience and naval museum, the History of Venice: San Marco Highlights Private Tour offers an exclusive opportunity to uncover the city’s storied past.
This 3.5-hour private tour includes guided visits to the Doge Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica, as well as a gondola ride through the canals. Ideal for history enthusiasts and first-time visitors, the tour is led by a local host and provides access to lesser-known areas and secrets.
While entrance tickets aren’t included, the tour’s carbon emissions are offset, ensuring an eco-friendly experience.
With a 4.5-star rating from 27 reviews, this tour promises a personalized exploration of Venice’s rich heritage.
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Venice: Bell Tower and San Marco History Gallery Tickets
Visitors can conveniently access the iconic St. Mark’s Bell Tower, the tallest structure in Venice, with these tickets. At 98 meters high, the panoramic views from the top include St. Mark’s Basilica and the picturesque lagoon.
Plus, the San Marco History Gallery explores the relationship between Venice and water. The VR journey transports guests to the medieval Piazza San Marco and Doge’s Palace.
While these non-refundable tickets are likely to sell out, the 1-hour experience offers skip-the-line access. However, the tour may not be suitable for wheelchair users or those with claustrophobia.
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St. Marks Cathedral Priority Ticket, AudioGuide History Gallery
For those interested in exploring the religious and historical significance of Venice, the St. Mark’s Cathedral Priority Ticket, AudioGuide + History Gallery tour provides a flexible and immersive experience.
This tour offers skip-the-line access to the basilica, a downloadable audio guide, and a virtual reality journey through the evolving St. Mark’s Square.
While the tour has received mixed reviews, with some noting issues with audio guides and additional fees, many travelers appreciated the knowledgeable guides and the ability to bypass long lines.
Visitors should plan accordingly, as the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and has specific clothing requirements.
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Venice Historic Walk: the City, Architecture, Traditions
Exploring the rich tapestry of Venice’s history, the Venice Historic Walk offers a captivating 2.5-hour journey through the city’s renowned architecture, squares, and cultural traditions.
Priced from $68.69 per person, this small-group tour with a live English-speaking guide delves into the Venetian Squares and Churches, Scuola Grande, Palazzo, and Squero.
Visitors will discover the city’s urbanism, port, and canals, as well as learn about the Venetian Aperitivo and Carnival.
Traversing the authentic Dorsoduro neighborhood, the tour provides insights into Venice’s evolution and current lifestyle.
With a maximum of 6 people, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users and doesn’t include museum, church, or palace visits.
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Venices Best: Basilica, Doges Palace, Gondola & History Gallery
This comprehensive tour invites travelers to enjoy the grandeur of Venice’s most iconic landmarks.
Highlights include skip-the-line access to St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace, as well as exclusive entry to the Correr Museum, Archaeological Museum, and Marciana Library.
Guided tours provide in-depth historical context, while a 20-minute gondola introduction and shared 30-minute ride offer a quintessential Venetian experience.
With a maximum of 15 travelers per group, the tour ensures an intimate and engaging exploration.
However, guests should note potential issues with directions, time management, and restrictions such as no luggage or bags allowed inside the landmarks.
Read our full review: Venices Best: Basilica, Doges Palace, Gondola & History Gallery Review
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Explore Murano Glass, Burano Lace, and Torcello History
What better way to take in the rich cultural heritage of Venice than to explore the famed islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello?
This 4.5-hour tour takes visitors on a journey to witness the art of glassblowing, lace-making, and ancient architecture. Priced from Kč 1,768 per person, the tour includes boat transfers, entrance to a Murano glassworks, a visit to a Burano lace shop, and access to Torcello Cathedral.
With free time to wander the colorful streets and enjoy local delicacies, this immersive experience offers a well-rounded glimpse into Venice’s captivating history and traditions.
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Venice Historic Walk: the City, Its Architecture and Traditions
Visitors embarking on the Venice Historic Walk can expect a captivating exploration of the city’s architectural wonders and cultural traditions.
Priced at $69.71 per person, the 5-star rated tour takes participants on a guided journey through Venice, including visits to churches and palaces.
Meeting at Campo Santa Margherita and ending at Campo San Barnaba, the tour runs from 9 AM and isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Operated by Cao Rio, the private tour offers a non-refundable experience, with an additional €5 access fee for travelers outside Venice.
Despite these considerations, the tour is likely to sell out, as it provides an immersive look into Venice’s rich history and heritage.
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Venice: Private Tour of Hidden Historic Center and Murano
Looking to discover Venice’s hidden gems? Consider a private tour of the city’s historic center and the island of Murano.
This tour takes you off the beaten path, allowing you to explore the charming alleyways, canals, and piazzas that most travelers miss. You’ll learn about the city’s rich history and admire its remarkable architecture.
The highlight is a visit to Murano, famous for its centuries-old tradition of glassmaking. Watch skilled artisans demonstrate their craft and have the opportunity to browse the island’s renowned glassware shops.
This personalized experience ensures you get the most out of your time in Venice, immersing you in the city’s unique culture and traditions.
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Museum of Palazzo Mocenigo:Center of the History of Textile, Costume and Perfume
Housed within the historic Palazzo Mocenigo, the Museum offers a captivating journey through the history of textile, costume, and perfume.
Located in Santa Croce, Venice, the museum focuses on these topics and is rated 3.7 based on 11 reviews. Admission includes an entrance ticket, priced from $17.16 per person, with a €5 access fee for some travelers.
While the museum isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s near public transportation. Booking confirmation is received within 48 hours, and most travelers can participate.
However, the reviews are concerning, as there are no 5-star, 4-star, or 3-star ratings, suggesting room for improvement in the visitor experience.
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Venice: Screenprint Workshop in a Historic Atelier
Those seeking an immersive artistic experience can dive into the world of silkscreen printing at a historic atelier in the heart of Venice.
The 2.5-hour workshop allows participants to learn from a master craftsman and create a 3-colour print of a notable Venetian palace. All materials are provided, and you will take home 8 copies of their printed work.
Private group sessions are available, and the instructor speaks both Italian and English. The cost is from $475.55 per person, with a reserve now and pay later option and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The workshop isn’t suitable for children under 7 years, and the meeting point is directly at the workshop location.
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Venice’s Hidden History Plus Murano Tour
This comprehensive tour offers visitors a captivating glimpse into Venice’s storied past and the renowned art of Murano glass.
For €1,550, up to four guests can embark on a private excursion that includes a private taxi, entry to all sites, a guided tour, and a gondola ride.
The highlight is a free visit to a Murano glass factory, where participants can witness the centuries-old tradition of glassmaking.
With a 5-star rating from four reviews, this tour provides an immersive experience that showcases the very best of Venice in a single day.
However, it’s important to note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and infants must sit on laps.
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Venice: Natural History Museum Entry Ticket
While Venice’s storied past and renowned Murano glass art provide a captivating experience, visitors can also explore the city’s natural history at the Venice Natural History Museum.
Tickets start at $10.57 per person and grant access to over 2 million historical objects, including a 7m Ouranosaurus skeleton and the skull of Sarchosuchus imperator.
The museum’s 40,000-book library and mix of zoological and dinosaur exhibits make it a family-friendly destination. With an average rating of 4.6/5, the museum’s tranquil terrace and garden are highlights.
Operating hours and access fees vary seasonally, so visitors should check the official website for updates.
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Byzantine Venice: Historical Tour and the Golden Basilica
Venice’s storied Byzantine past comes alive on a captivating historical tour that explores the city’s iconic Golden Basilica.
Visitors will marvel at the stunning Byzantine-style architecture and the breathtaking gold mosaics that adorn the basilica’s interior. The tour guide provides expert insights into the history and significance of this remarkable landmark, which serves as a testament to Venice’s rich cultural heritage.
Guests will also explore the city’s Byzantine influences, learning about the lasting impact of this era on Venetian art, architecture, and traditions.
This immersive experience offers a unique window into Venice’s captivating past, leaving participants with a deeper appreciation for the city’s enduring Byzantine legacy.
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Venice: Baroque and Classical Concert in a Historical Palace
Visitors to Venice can enjoy the city’s rich musical heritage by attending a captivating Baroque and Classical concert in a historical palace.
These performances take place in magnificent venues, such as the 18th-century Palazzo Barbarigo Minotto, transporting audiences back in time. Guests will be delighted by the virtuosic playing of renowned musicians, who masterfully interpret the works of composers like Vivaldi, Mozart, and Beethoven.
The intimate setting allows for a truly special and memorable experience, as attendees are surrounded by the opulent decor and grandeur of these historic palaces.
Whether a music enthusiast or simply seeking a cultural adventure, this concert is a must-do activity for any visitor to Venice.
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Venices Dark History and Culinary Delights
Beneath Venice’s enchanting canals and ornate architecture lies a dark and captivating history.
From the notorious Venetian Inquisition to the grim realities of life in the city’s medieval prisons, Venice’s past is rife with intrigue and scandal.
Yet, this historical city also boasts a vibrant culinary scene, where visitors can indulge in regional specialties like creamy risotto al nero di seppia and decadent tiramisu.
Whether you’re drawn to Venice’s macabre history or its gastronomic delights, exploring the city’s hidden nooks and crannies is a must.
Guided tours offer a unique opportunity to explore Venice’s multilayered past and present, providing a well-rounded experience for the discerning traveler.
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Venice: Historical Walking Tour & Doge’s Palace Guided Visit
This guided tour offers travelers an immersive exploration of Venice’s rich history and iconic landmarks.
Kicking off at St. Mark’s Basilica, the tour provides skip-the-line access and a guided visit, delving into the cathedral’s stunning Byzantine architecture.
Next, guests discover the magnificent Doge’s Palace, including the Bridge of Sighs and the Doge’s Prison.
The tour then whisks visitors to the nearby islands of Murano and Burano, where they can witness a live glass-blowing demonstration and explore the colorful, lace-making traditions.
With included audio receivers for groups, hotel pickup and drop-off, and access to additional museums, this comprehensive tour delivers exceptional value and an unforgettable glimpse into Venice’s storied past.
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Sum Up
With numerous historical tours available in Venice, visitors can explore the city’s rich past, from the Jewish Ghetto to the iconic Doge’s Palace. These tours offer a glimpse into Venice’s seafaring heritage, Byzantine influence, and the Baroque era. Whether exploring by boat, on foot, or attending a classical concert, there’s a wealth of options to uncover the captivating history of this iconic Italian city.