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Authentic Gondola Tour & Exclusive Venice eBooks

3.2(13)VeniceFree cancellationLikely to sell out

About this activity

Experience the essence of Venice on a classic gondola ride through the city's most enchanting canals. Departing from Campo San Moisè, you'll board a traditional Venetian gondola to discover unique landscapes, sailing under historic bridges and admiring elegant palaces that reveal all the charm of the city. During the approximately 30-minute ride, you'll travel along tranquil canals and a stretch of the famous Grand Canal, appreciating Venice from an unforgettable perspective. Without the need for a guide, the experience allows you to freely contemplate the romantic and timeless atmosphere of the city as you glide smoothly through the Venetian waters. Ideal for sharing special moments, each gondola accommodates up to 5 people and provides an authentic experience of Venetian tradition. To complement the ride, you will receive an exclusive eBook with curiosities, stories, and special tips about Venice and its historic canals.

Highlights

    What's included

    • Shared gondola ride (not guided)
    • Multilingual assistance when boarding
    • Ebook guide

    Not included

    • Drink
    • Food
    • Transport
    • The gondola ride is not a guided tour

    Itinerary

    1. Grand Canal

      Flowing at the heart of Venice lies the magnificent Grand Canal, an awe-inspiring spectacle. Stretching over 2 miles in length and elegantly taking the form of a backward "S," this iconic watercourse meanders through the city, linking captivating neighborhoods and displaying the architectural marvels of Venice. Embark on a voyage along the Grand Canal and bear witness to the splendor of the palaces, churches, and edifices that grace its shores. Be enchanted by their intricate designs, adorned with vibrant facades and graceful details, reflecting centuries of Venetian history and cultural opulence. As you glide gracefully along the shimmering waters, immerse yourself in the vibrant ambiance of Venetian existence. Admire the elegant gondolas and vaporettos gracefully navigating the canal, ferrying both locals and visitors to their chosen destinations.

      30 minutesAdmission freeSee on map

    2. La Fenice Opera House

      During the latter part of the 18th century, Venice could proudly boast of having seven age-old theaters, with two solely dedicated to drama and the remainder reserved for musical performances. Among this distinguished group, the most opulent was the Teatro San Benedetto, situated close to Campo San Luca. Initially founded in 1755 by the esteemed Grimani family, it later came under the control of the Noble Society of box holders. Nevertheless, in 1787, following a judicial agreement, the society was expelled and forced to relinquish ownership of the theater to the Venier nobles, who owned the land on which the structure was erected. Promptly, the society embarked on constructing a new and grander theater, to be named Gran Teatro La Fenice, akin to the mythical and immortal bird mentioned in Herodotus' Histories. Just as the phoenix is renowned for rising from its own ashes, this newly-built theater would symbolize society's resurgence from its adversities.

      Pass by (no stop)Admission freeSee on map

    3. There are numerous lingering place names that recall the city's history of widespread horticultural activities or undeveloped areas covered with vegetation.

      Among these, we can mention the campi (fields), campaign (countryside), courtyards filled with grass, or the calluses of the fighter. The first recorded mention of Rio dell'Alboro dates back to 1696, while the Rio de le Ostreghe appears in documents during the following century. It is likely that a seller of these delicious seafood delicacies operated nearby, as their cultivation in the lagoon experienced significant growth, especially in the first half of the 19th century. This is also evident in the canal named after them, formerly known as the ostregheri canal but now referred to as Canale dei Lavraneri, located in Sacca Fisola.

      Pass by (no stop)Admission free

    4. Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute

      Santa Maria della Salute, situated in Venice, is a remarkable basilica that stands as a symbol of gratitude and optimism. Erected in the 17th century, it was dedicated to the Virgin Mary in commemoration of the city's deliverance from the devastating plague. The impressive domed structure and graceful Baroque architecture render it a prominent architectural treasure along the Grand Canal. Inside, the space is adorned with exquisite masterpieces and intricate embellishments, evoking a sense of wonder among its visitors. Even today, Santa Maria della Salute remains a significant religious and cultural landmark in Venice, attracting both locals and tourists alike who come to marvel at its beauty and historical importance.

      Pass by (no stop)Admission freeSee on map

    Meeting point

    Arrive 15 minutes prior to the scheduled departure at Largo de l'Ascension 1256 - 30124 San Marco, conveniently located near the post office (situated behind the Correr Museum in Piazza San Marco). Keep an eye out for the conspicuous "Meeting Point" indicator displayed on the wooden kiosk.

    The map shows Venice. The exact meeting point is the address above.Open larger map

    Pickup

    • Everyone meets at the start point

    Know before you go

    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • The gondola ride is not private but is shared with other participants.
    • Up to 5 individuals can board each gondola.
    • The route may alter due to unfavorable weather conditions.
    • Our gondolier will assign your seat, not selectable.
    • IMPORTANT: This is a shared tour, not private.
    • The Gondola ride does not include a guided tour.
    • On certain dates, most travelers staying outside of Venice who are planning to visit for the day will be required to pay a €5 access fee. For further details (including exemptions) and to learn what days this fee is applicable, please visit: https://cda.ve.it
    • Your complimentary eBook will be sent automatically once your reservation has been successfully confirmed.
    • Mobile or paper ticket accepted
    • One per booking

    Cancellation and refunds

    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

    If you cancelRefund
    At least 1 days before100%
    Between 0 and 1 days before0%
    Supplied by
    VENEZIA TOUR ITALY
    Product code
    414004P2

    Customer reviews

    3.2 · 13 reviews
    3.2
    13 reviews
    • 5 ★6
    • 4 ★1
    • 3 ★0
    • 2 ★1
    • 1 ★5

    Ratings from Viator 1.8 (5) · Tripadvisor 4.0 (8)

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    From

    $114$105per person