Secret Venice: Palazzo Grimani and Hidden Corners of Venice

Discover the hidden gems of Venice on this enchanting small-group tour. Venture off the beaten path to uncover the city’s rich cultural heritage, from Marco Polo’s former residence to the architectural splendor of Palazzo Grimani. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll explore lesser-known corners and gain insider access to captivating sights. Marvel at the whimsical ambiance as you learn about Venice’s storied past. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, this tour promises to reveal the city’s most enchanting secrets and leave you eager to…

Key Points

• Explore the hidden gems of Venice, including the iconic Rialto Bridge, Marco Polo’s residence, and the Acqua Alta Bookstore on a 2-hour small-group tour.
• Discover the architectural grandeur of Palazzo Grimani, showcasing Renaissance and Gothic styles and offering insights into Venice’s rich cultural heritage.
• Enjoy the life of the renowned explorer Marco Polo by visiting his historic residence and learning about his remarkable legacy.
• Enjoy a unique and enchanting experience at the Acqua Alta Bookstore, a beloved Venice landmark filled with creatively stacked books and a whimsical atmosphere.
• Benefit from a convenient meeting point, hotel pickup/drop-off, and a Lowest Price Guarantee, ensuring a seamless and affordable exploration of Venice’s hidden gems.

Exploring Rialto Bridge

Starting at the iconic Rialto Bridge, the tour guides visitors through the hidden corners of Venice.

This historic landmark serves as the jumping-off point for exploring the city’s lesser-known gems. Along the way, guests discover Marco Polo’s former residence, a unique aquatic-themed bookstore, and the Gothic architecture of Palazzo Grimani.

The small-group format allows for a more intimate and personalized experience. Throughout the tour, the knowledgeable guide provides insights into the city’s rich history and cultural significance.

With a duration of approximately 2 hours, this excursion offers a captivating glimpse into Venice’s off-the-beaten-path wonders, complementing the classic sights and attractions.

Marco Polo’s Residence

The tour’s journey takes visitors to Marco Polo’s former residence, a historic landmark that once housed the renowned explorer.

Guests can explore the captivating building where Marco Polo lived after returning from his travels in Asia. The residence offers a glimpse into the life of this influential figure, showcasing the architectural style and design elements of the era.

Visitors will have the opportunity to wander through the rooms and imagine the stories and adventures that unfolded within these walls.

This stop on the tour provides a unique and immersive experience, allowing participants to connect with Venice’s rich history and the legacy of one of its most celebrated citizens.

Discover Acqua Alta Bookstore

One of the unique stops on the tour is the Acqua Alta Bookstore, a captivating aquatic-themed bookshop that has become a beloved Venice landmark.

Visitors will discover a charming store filled with books, stacked in creative ways using boats, bathtubs, and other water-inspired displays.

The shop’s owner, Luigi Frizzo, has curated an eclectic collection of new and secondhand titles, making it a true treasure trove for book lovers.

With its whimsical atmosphere and stunning canal-side location, the Acqua Alta Bookstore offers a delightful respite from the crowds and a chance to take in the enchanting world of Venice.

Architectural Gems of Palazzo Grimani

Adorning the Castello district, Palazzo Grimani stands as an architectural marvel, showcasing the harmonious blend of Renaissance and Gothic styles. Commissioned in the 16th century, this grand palace features an impressive façade with intricate stone carvings and a central arched portal. Step inside, and you’ll be captivated by the stunning courtyard, adorned with columns and elegant statues. Explore the palace’s opulent interiors, where you’ll discover:

Room	Features
Grimani Hall	Ornate ceilings and marble floors
Loggia	Panoramic views of the Grand Canal
Studiolo	Rare collection of classical sculptures
Scuola	Ornate vaulted ceilings and frescoes

A true architectural gem, Palazzo Grimani offers a window into Venice’s rich cultural heritage.

Unique Small-Group Experience

This small-group tour offers a unique opportunity to discover the hidden corners of Venice, away from the bustling crowds.

With a maximum of 8 participants, the intimate format ensures a more personalized experience as you explore the city’s lesser-known gems.

Your knowledgeable guide will lead you on a 2-hour journey, starting from the iconic Rialto Bridge and revealing the secrets of Marco Polo’s former residence, a charming aquatic-themed bookshop, and the stunning Gothic architecture of Palazzo Grimani.

The included entrance ticket and convenient hotel pickup and drop-off services add to the ease and flexibility of this tour, making it the perfect way to uncover the hidden charms of this enchanting city.

Convenient Meeting and Pickup

The meeting point for this tour is Campo San Bortolomio, located near the iconic Rialto Bridge. The exact location is marked on Google Maps for easy navigation, with the group meeting in front of the Goldoni statue for clear identification. This convenient meeting point is accessible via public transportation, making it easy for participants to arrive.

Meeting Point	Transportation
Campo San Bortolomio	Public transit
Near Rialto Bridge	Easily accessible
In front of Goldoni statue	Google Maps location

The tour offers a private format, ensuring an exclusive group experience. With the meeting details provided, guests can look forward to a seamless start to their exploration of Venice’s hidden corners.

Pricing and Availability Details

For this tour of Venice’s hidden corners, the starting price is €170.95 per person.

However, the price can vary based on the size of your group. Fortunately, a Lowest Price Guarantee is offered, so you can be confident you’re getting the best deal.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience, and a mobile ticket is available for your convenience.

With a small-group format, you’ll enjoy a more personalized experience as you explore the Rialto Bridge, Marco Polo’s former residence, and the unique aquatic-themed bookstore, among other highlights.

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and includes entrance to Palazzo Grimani.

Important Information

Confirmation is received upon booking completion.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed. A minimum of 2 adults is required for participation. Those who are no-shows or arrive late won’t be eligible for refunds.

Starting April 25, 2024, registration and an access contribution may be necessary.

The small-group format ensures an exclusive experience, allowing guests to explore Venice’s hidden gems comfortably. With a knowledgeable guide, travelers will uncover the city’s history, architecture, and unique bookstores, culminating in a visit to the impressive Palazzo Grimani.

The flexible reservation and payment options make this tour a convenient and memorable way to discover the lesser-known side of Venice.

The Sum Up

The "Secret Venice" tour offers an enchanting exploration of Venice’s lesser-known sights. Participants will uncover hidden gems, from Marco Polo’s residence to the architectural splendor of Palazzo Grimani. With a focus on off-the-beaten-path attractions, the small-group experience allows visitors to connect deeply with the city’s rich cultural heritage in a whimsical atmosphere. This convenient and informative tour is a must-do for those seeking a unique and personalized experience in Venice.