The Jewish Ghetto in Venice is a captivating historical gem, tucked away in the city’s Cannaregio neighborhood. This walking tour promises to immerse visitors in the rich cultural heritage of the world’s first Jewish ghetto, exploring hidden synagogues, the oldest pawn shop, and uncovering the resilience of the community in the face of adversity. Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour offers a personalized experience, providing insights into the profound impact of the Holocaust and the enduring spirit of the Jewish people in Venice. Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious to discover a lesser-known aspect of the city, this tour promises to unveil a fascinating chapter of Venice’s past.
Key Points

- Explore the world’s first Jewish Ghetto, immersing in the rich history and culture of Venice’s Jewish community.
- Discover hidden synagogues and uncover the origins of the term "ghetto" during a 2-hour guided walking tour.
- Learn about the impact of the Holocaust on the local Jewish population and their resilience.
- Visit the oldest pawn shop in Venice, gaining insight into the community’s economic history.
- Enjoy a personalized small-group experience with a focus on the Cannaregio neighborhood’s architectural beauty and preservation.
Tour Overview

The "Venice: Jewish Ghetto Walking Tour" offers a captivating 2-hour exploration of the historic Jewish Ghetto in the Cannaregio neighborhood of Venice.
Priced from €60 per person, the small-group tour is led in English and features a photo stop and guided tour of the Jewish Ghetto.
Guests will visit the Sotoportego Ghetto, Campo di Ghetto Nuovo, and the Fondamenta dei Ormesini.
Highlights include learning about the local Jewish community’s history and culture, recognizing hidden synagogues, and visiting the oldest pawn shop in Venice.
The tour is a chance to take in the first Jewish Ghetto in the world and understand the impact of the Holocaust on the community.
Comfortable shoes are recommended, and the tour operates rain or shine.
You can also read our reviews of more walking tours in Venice
Itinerary

The tour begins at Campo San Geremia in the Cannaregio neighborhood, where you will gather for a 30-minute photo stop and guided tour of the Jewish Ghetto.
Next, they’ll visit the Sotoportego Ghetto and Campo di Ghetto Nuovo, exploring the historic streets and bridges of the area.
Along the way, the guide will share insights into the local Jewish community’s history and culture, pointing out hidden synagogues and the origin of the term "ghetto."
The tour concludes at the Fondamenta dei Ormesini, where participants can further enjoy the beauty and preservation of this iconic Venetian district.
Highlights

Exploring Venice’s historic Jewish Ghetto, this walking tour immerses visitors in the first Jewish Ghetto in the world.
Discover the Cannaregio neighborhood‘s charming streets and bridges, learning about the local Jewish community’s rich history and culture.
Recognize hidden synagogues and uncover the origin of the word "ghetto".
Visit the oldest pawn shop in Venice, uncovering its unique history.
Understand the impact of the Holocaust on this community and the Serenissima Republic’s regulations.
Throughout the tour, marvel at the beauty and preservation of this distinctive district, gaining a deeper appreciation for its resilience and significance in Venice’s past and present.
Experience Details
Visitors enjoy the first Jewish Ghetto in the world on this walking tour. They gain a deeper understanding of the impact of the Holocaust on the local Jewish community and learn about the Serenissima Republic’s historical regulations on the Jewish population. The tour showcases the beauty and preservation of the district, revealing hidden synagogues and the unique history of the oldest pawn shop in Venice.
| Experience Details | |
|---|---|
| Explore the first Jewish Ghetto in the world | Learn about the Serenissima Republic’s regulations |
| Discover the impact of the Holocaust | Admire the beauty and preservation of the district |
| Recognize hidden synagogues and the origin of "ghetto" | Visit the oldest pawn shop in Venice |
Practical Information

Participants meet at the front of San Geremia Church, where they’ll find the Lucia Venice Walks and Tours sign.
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as the tour covers a good deal of ground in Venice’s historic Cannaregio neighborhood.
The tour operates rain or shine, though restrictions may apply during high tides.
Unfortunately, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to the uneven terrain and narrow passageways.
- Tour of The Real Hidden Venice
- Venice: St Marks Basilica After-Hours Tour With Optional Doges Palace
- Murano Glass Experience With a Visit to a Burano Lace Island
- Venice Sightseeing Walking Tour With a Local Guide
- Eat, Drink and Repeat: Wine Tasting Tour in Venice
- I Musici Veneziani Concert: Vivaldi Four Seasons
Starting Location

The tour begins at Campo San Geremia, a charming square in the Cannaregio district of Venice. Participants will meet their guide near the San Geremia Church and the Lucia Venice Walks and Tours sign.
The starting location is conveniently situated, providing easy access to explore the historic Jewish Ghetto. Here are three key things to know about the starting point:
-
It’s easily recognizable, with the San Geremia Church and the Lucia Venice Walks and Tours sign serving as clear landmarks.
-
The square is just a short walk from the Ghetto, allowing for a seamless start to the tour.
-
The meeting spot is accessible, making it convenient for participants to find and join the group.
Ending Location
Concluding the walking tour, participants arrive at the Fondamenta dei Ormesini, a picturesque waterfront promenade in the Cannaregio district. This serene location offers stunning views of the city’s canals and a glimpse into the daily life of the local Venetians. After exploring the rich history and culture of the Jewish Ghetto, visitors can take a moment to appreciate the tranquility of this area before continuing their journey through the enchanting city of Venice.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Fondamenta dei Ormesini |
| Neighborhood | Cannaregio |
| Atmosphere | Picturesque, serene, tranquil |
| Highlights | Waterfront promenade, views of canals, glimpse into local life |
| Significance | Concluding point of the Jewish Ghetto walking tour |
Group Size
This walking tour operates on a small group basis, allowing for a more intimate and personalized experience.
Groups are kept to a manageable size, which facilitates interaction with the knowledgeable guide and fosters a deeper appreciation of the historic Jewish Ghetto.
The small group format offers several key benefits:
-
Enhanced engagement: With fewer participants, you’ll have more opportunities to ask questions and have in-depth discussions about the site’s rich history and cultural significance.
-
Easier navigation: Moving through the winding streets and narrow alleyways of the Ghetto is more seamless in a small group, ensuring you don’t miss any key highlights.
-
Personalized attention: Your guide can tailor the experience to your interests and provide more personalized insights, creating a truly memorable tour.
Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Is the Walking Distance During the Tour?
The walking distance during the tour is approximately 0.5 miles over 2 hours. It covers the Jewish Ghetto area, visiting key sites like the Sotoportego Ghetto and Campo di Ghetto Nuovo before ending at the Fondamenta dei Ormesini.
Are There Any Dress Code Requirements for the Tour?
The tour has no specific dress code requirements. Participants should wear comfortable walking shoes, as the tour involves exploring the historic Jewish Ghetto district. Dressing modestly is recommended when visiting religious sites.
Can We Stop for a Meal or Refreshments During the Tour?
The tour does not include stops for meals or refreshments. However, participants can explore the neighborhood’s cafes, bakeries, and restaurants before or after the tour at their own leisure and expense.
Do We Need to Bring Any Specific Materials or Documents?
The tour doesn’t require any specific materials or documents. However, it’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes for the 2-hour walking tour. Participants should also be prepared for potential weather restrictions during high tides.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Student or Senior Visitors?
There are no specific discounts mentioned for the Venice: Jewish Ghetto Walking Tour. However, the tour operator may offer reduced prices for students or seniors, so it’s best to inquire about any available discounts when booking the tour.
Recap
The Jewish Ghetto Walking Tour in Venice offers an immersive exploration of the community’s rich history and resilience. Led by knowledgeable guides, visitors can discover the world’s first Jewish ghetto, hidden synagogues, and the oldest pawn shop in the city. With a small group format, the tour provides personalized attention and insights into this unique cultural heritage, leaving participants with a deeper understanding of the Jewish experience in Venice.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Walking Tours in Venice
- Shared Gondola Ride with Guided Walking Introduction
- Venice Quick Overview: City Center Walking Tour with Local Guide
- Ducal Venice, Historical Walking Tour & Skip the line Doge’s Palace
- Private walking Tour of the Main Sites in the Centre of Venice
- Venice Walking Tour with Gondola Ride Experience
- Venice Walking Tour with Audioguide on Your Smartphone
More Tours in Venice
- Classic Venetian Boat Tour to Explore the Lagoon and Islands
- Venice Private Tour for Families with Gondola Ride
- Saint Marks Basilica, Doge’s Palace and Gondola tour in Venice
- Guided Tour of Murano, Burano & Torcello Islands around Venice with Private Boat
- Biennale Architettura 2025 Intelligens Naturale Artificiale Tour
- Murano & Burano Islands Tour with Glass-blowing Factory Visit
More Tour Reviews in Venice
- Venice Airport (VCE) to Venice, cruise port – Round-Trip Private Transfer
- Classic Venetian Boat Tour to Explore the Lagoon and Islands
- Private Transfer: Venice to Marco Polo Airport VCE in Luxury Van
- Step into History at the Doge’s Palace
- Cook Carbonara Pasta and Dessert With Live Music (3 Course Meal)
- Explore the Instaworthy Spots of Venice with a Local
Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in Venice we have reviewed
- Venice Airport (VCE) to Venice, cruise port – Round-Trip Private Transfer
- Classic Venetian Boat Tour to Explore the Lagoon and Islands
- Private Transfer: Venice to Marco Polo Airport VCE in Luxury Van
- Step into History at the Doge’s Palace
- Cook Carbonara Pasta and Dessert With Live Music (3 Course Meal)
- Explore the Instaworthy Spots of Venice with a Local
- The Dark Side of Venice: Mysteries and Legends
- Audioguide Venice: Saint Mark’s Square, Murano & Burano
- Venice Private Tour for Families with Gondola Ride
- Saint Marks Basilica, Doge’s Palace and Gondola tour in Venice
- Guided Tour of Murano, Burano & Torcello Islands around Venice with Private Boat
- Shared Gondola Ride with Guided Walking Introduction
