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The Best of Venice: San Marco Highlights & Gondola Ride

4.5(28)VeniceFree cancellation

About this activity

San Marco is the beating heart of Venice — rich in history, art, and stunning views. On this private tour, your local host will take you on a journey through the city’s highlights: the Basilica di San Marco, the Doge’s Palace, and the Piazza San Marco. But there’s more to San Marco than its famous sights. Your host will share personal stories, lesser-known corners, and tips you won’t find in any guidebook. Along the way, you'll also enjoy a classic gondola ride through the canals — a must-do Venetian experience! (Please note: the gondola ride is not included in the price and needs to be paid in cash on the day — your host will help arrange it.) Want to grab a bite or a coffee? Your host knows just the right place to pause and recharge. And if you’d like to tweak the route or focus on a specific interest, your host will gladly tailor the experience to you. Whether you're here for the big sights or the local feel, this tour blends both for a truly memorable Venetian adventure.

Highlights

    What's included

    • CO2 Neutral: all tours carbon emissions are offset
    • Private guide

    Not included

    • Entrance tickets to landmarks are not included
    • Hotel pick-up & drop off
    • Gondola Ride - Guests must pay upfront to the host

    Itinerary

    1. Doge's Palace

      Palace built in Venetian Gothic style, and the residence of the Doge of Venice, the supreme authority of the former Republic.

      20 minutesAdmission not includedSee on map

    2. St. Mark's Square

      The lowest point of Venice and the city's main square where most famous buildings are located.

      40 minutesAdmission freeSee on map

    3. St. Mark's Basilica

      Blending the architectural styles of East and West, Venice's magnificent basilica was consecrated in 832 AD as an ecclesiastical building to house the remains of St. Mark.

      15 minutesAdmission not includedSee on map

    4. Depending on your host and their chosen route for the tour, this stop might also be included in your route.

      Pass by (no stop)Admission free

    Meeting point

    In front of Caffè Florian

    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
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • Private tour: only you & your local guide
    • CO2 Neutral: all tours carbon emissions are offset
    • 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
    • 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
    Withlocals
    Product code
    24380P718

    Customer reviews

    4.5 · 28 reviews
    4.5
    28 reviews
    • 5 ★24
    • 4 ★0
    • 3 ★1
    • 2 ★0
    • 1 ★3

    Ratings from Viator 4.2 (10) · Tripadvisor 4.7 (18)

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    From

    $74$68per person