
1 / 5Venice Walking Tour and Gondola Ride
About this activity
Combine a guided walking tour of Venice's iconic landmarks—from St. Mark's Square to the Doge's Palace—with a traditional gondola ride along the Grand Canal and quieter neighbourhood canals. This 3-hour experience blends history, architecture, and the romantic atmosphere that makes Venice unforgettable.
Meet your guide at the entrance of the main train station Santa Lucia. He or she will guide you to discover the loveliest corners of this extraordinary city, built upon wooden pilings, from Saint Mark's Square to the Doge’s Palace, including the bell tower and the famous Grand Canal. You will walk across the legendary Calle Varisco. According to the legend, it is not possible for a murderer to walk the calle without being crushed by the walls, which would getting close to one another until they manage to kill him or her and, by doing so, punish his or her impure soul. During this enchanting tour, you can admire the breathtaking Grand Canal, with its display of colors and lights that will remain etched in your heart forever. Let yourself be surprised by the many treasures hidden in the narrow streets of Venice and its enchanting canals. Loose yourself in an unforgettable experience. After exploring the city’s romantic streets by foot, climb aboard a traditional gondola boat for a romantic ride along the city’s famous canals. Navigated by a friendly gondolier, cruise by spectacular historic structures along the Grand Canal and float down smaller watery ways in the Fenice neighborhood.
Highlights
- ✓St. Mark's Square and the Doge's Palace on foot
- ✓Climb the bell tower for city views
- ✓Walk the legendary Calle Varisco with its local folklore
- ✓Cruise the Grand Canal by traditional gondola
- ✓Navigate smaller canals in the Fenice neighbourhood
- ✓Expert local guide plus experienced gondolier
Insider tips
- ★Wear comfortable, flat shoes—Venice's streets are uneven and you'll walk across multiple bridges
- ★Visit early morning (before 10am) to avoid peak crowds at St. Mark's Square
- ★The gondola portion is best appreciated on a clear day when light reflects beautifully off the water
- ★Bring a camera with a good zoom for architectural details on the Grand Canal facades
Good to know
- •Meets at Santa Lucia train station entrance—arrive 10–15 minutes early
- •3-hour total duration includes both walking and gondola components
- •Involves multiple bridges and uneven terrain; not suitable for limited mobility
- •Gondola seat may be shared with other small groups
- •No food or drink included; plan accordingly
Who it's for
Best time to visit
Early morning (before 10am) offers the best light for photography and the fewest tourists at major sites. Late afternoon provides golden hour lighting on the canals, though crowds remain significant.
Frequently asked questions
More things to do in Venice
- Doge's Palace Venice: Private Tour of Power and Art
- San Giorgio Maggiore Venice: Private Tour with Panoramic Views
- Venice Natural History Museum: Private Tour
- Venice Naval History: Museum & Arsenal Walking Tour
- Transfer from Marco Polo Venice Airport (VCE) to Venice Historical Center - Rialto Bridge or St Mark's Square stop
- Private Varese Gardens & Historic Sites Tour From Milan
- Secrets of Milan Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour
- Rome by Night City Bike Tour with Sunset, Views and Evening Lights | Upgrade available: Pizza Night
- Excursión a Florencia y Pisa con subida a la Torre Inclinada desde Roma
- Bolzano Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide
- Venice Self-Guided Audio Tour
- Exclusive Enogastronomy Tour Wine and food tasting






