Skip to content
Tripsora

Venice Private Gondola Ride: Explore Hidden Canals and Sights

3.9(529)Rated 3.9 out of 5 from 529 reviews2 hFree cancellationBy TUI Musement
Venice Private Gondola Ride: Explore Hidden Canals and Sights

About this activity

Step aboard your private gondola and glide through the canals of Venice, with different routes taking you from quieter waterways to some of the city’s best-known sights. Fabio, one of the gondoliers, says, “Being a gondolier is so much more than operating a gondola. Over 400 hours go into getting a Gondolier licence, learning the ins and outs of the canals, Venetian art and history. You’re really in the safest hands.”

The shortest tour takes you through the San Paolo district, offering an intimate look at Venice away from the busiest sights. Look out for the distinctive canal-facing façades of Venetian buildings.

The one-hour option continues towards the Grand Canal, while the 1.5-hour tour takes you towards the Rialto Bridge area. The longest ride also includes St Mark’s Square, bringing some of Venice’s most famous sights into the itinerary. Whichever route you choose, you’ll experience the city from its historic waterways.

What's included

  • ✓Friendly and expert local gondoliere
  • ✓2-hour tour enjoys the full itinerary
  • ✓1.5-hour tour goes up to Rialto Market before going back to the meeting point
  • ✓30-minutes tour goes up to Palazzo Briati before going back to the meeting point
  • ✓60-minutes tour goes up to San Polo before going back to the meeting point
  • ✓Choice of a 30-minute, 1-hour, 1.5-hour or 2-hour tour

Not included

  • ✕Transportation to the meeting point

Meeting and pickup

  • Please present your voucher at the Servizio Gondole stand. Kindly approach the gondoliers directly for assistance and boarding.

Good to know

  • Service animals allowed
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • This activity takes place rain or shine, but please note that in the event of exceptionally high tides or heavy rain, the tour may be cancelled by the local supplier and a full refund will be provided
  • Each gondola carries a maximum of 5 people (infants included). Larger groups will be divided between multiple gondolas
  • Please note that babies count as adults. You need to book a ticket even for them
  • Please arrive 10 minutes before the tour departure time. If you arrive late, the ride will be shorter and for those more than 15 minutes late, this will be considered a no-show
  • Dogs are allowed on the boat and don't count towards the maximum number of people
  • Your gondolier can provide commentary and answer any questions you might have about the city , or you can take in the sights and soak up the atmosphere on this relaxing ride
  • Duration is subject to traffic conditions
  • Tour starts from the moment of boarding
  • Customers requiring multiple gondolas must create separate bookings

Cancellation policy

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

More things to do in Venice

Murano & Burano Islands Guided Small-Group Tour by Private Boat

Cruise the Venetian Lagoon by private water taxi and meet the artisans keeping Venice’s traditional crafts alive. You’ll see demonstrations of traditional glassblowing on the island of Murano, and traditional lacemaking on Burano. The tour includes discounts on souvenirs from both demonstration workshops. Both islands have plenty to see, and you’ll have ample time to explore.

4.7(9,763)Rated 4.7 out of 5 from 9763 reviews5 hFree cancellation

From £33.18 per person

Legendary Venice Doge's Palace & St. Mark's with Exclusive Access

With skip-the-line tickets and an expert guide, you’ll explore Venice’s top two landmarks, St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace, in just two unforgettable hours. Wander the gilded council rooms in the Doge's Palace, cross the Bridge of Sighs, uncover enthralling stories of power and politics, and marvel at the golden mosaic ceiling in St. Mark's Basilica. Note: If you select the Private Lege…

4.7(6,240)Rated 4.7 out of 5 from 6240 reviews3 h

From £71.45 per person

Venice In a Day St Mark's Doges Palace Gondola Ride and City Tour

First time in Venice? Maximize your time in the city with a full-day itinerary that ticks off all the most memorable attractions. Stroll across the Rialto Bridge and browse the lively Rialto fish market, then hop aboard a traditional gondola for a romantic cruise along the Grand Canal. Next, access St. Mark’s Basilica and gaze in awe at the stunning gold mosaics. Finally, enjoy skip-the-line entr…

4.8(5,267)Rated 4.8 out of 5 from 5267 reviews4 h 30 min

From £97.82 per person