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Welcome to the glorious, incomparable city of Venice, Italy. Known as the Floating City, Venice is more than its iconic landmarks; it’s a maze of hidden wonders waiting to be uncovered. With your private, customizable tour, you’ll discover Venice in a way that feels uniquely yours: It’s all about you: Your private tour is tailored to what you love. Forget the rigid schedules of group tours—this is your chance to see Venice the way you want with your local Venice guide. Combine famous landmarks and hidden gems: You can combine iconic places like St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace but also experience the Venice only locals know, with peaceful courtyards, hidden workshops, and quiet canals for a one-of-a-kind experience. No waiting, more exploring: Your guide will make sure you skip the long lines, so you can spend more time enjoying the sights and less time standing around. Must-see attractions Here are some must-see spots to check out during your visit: St. Mark’s Basilica: Marvel at beautiful mosaics and admire this masterpiece of Byzantine art. Doge’s Palace: Step back in time with grand halls, intricate details, and centuries-old stories. Cross the Bridge of Sighs to the New Prison (Prigioni Nuove) for a glimpse into Venice’s darker past. Rialto Bridge and Grand Canal: This iconic bridge is perfect for views of Venice’s busiest canal. Take a Vaporetto ride along the Grand Canal to see historic palaces and stunning architecture from the water. Murano and Burano: Explore Murano, a charming island famous for its history of glassmaking, and Burano, known for its bright, colourful houses that feel like stepping into a painting. Explore a more authentic side of Venice Step away from the crowds and explore Venice like a local: Rialto Market: A hotspot for food lovers and still an essential part of local life, giving you a taste of Venice’s vibrant food culture. Venetian Ghetto: Located in the Cannaregio district, this area is quieter than Venice’s busy tourist spots and gives you a unique look at the city’s rich Jewish history. Venetian Mask Workshops: Make your own Venetian mask in fun, hands-on workshops. It’s a great way to learn about one of Venice’s most fascinating traditions while creating something special to take home. Campo Santa Margherita: In the evenings, this lively square comes alive with students, families, and friends enjoying the relaxed atmosphere. Squero de San Trovaso (Gondola building boatyard): See artisans building and repairing gondolas and experience Venice's boat-making traditions up close. Immerse yourself in Venetian life Venice is even more special during its unique events and festivals: Carnival: In February, the city becomes full of life with colourful masks, beautiful costumes, and fun parades. The whole city turns into a giant, colourful celebration. Festa del Redentore: This summer festival showcases spectacular fireworks lighting up the sky. It’s a special night where locals come together to celebrate. Venice Biennale: If you love art, the Venice Biennale is a must-see. Experience a global showcase of incredible creativity and talent in cinema, theatre, dance, art and architecture. Regata Storica: Watch colourful boat races on the first Sunday in September and join the locals in this celebration of Venice’s maritime history. Practical tips for your Venice tour Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer nice weather and fewer crowds, making them the best times to enjoy Venice. Local tips: If you’re visiting churches, dress modestly to show respect. Also, skip feeding the pigeons in St. Mark’s Square—it’s not allowed. Getting around: The best way to explore Venice is on foot, but don’t miss a Vaporetto ride or a private boat tour to enjoy amazing canal views. Venice day trip ideas Add a day trip to your itinerary for even more memorable experiences: - Padua is full of authentic Italian charm and offers a quieter, more personal experience away from the crowds. Visit the Scrovegni Chapel to admire Giotto’s famous frescoes, a true gem of Renaissance art. The city also has peaceful spots like Prato della Valle, one of Europe’s largest squares, and the historic University of Padua, where Galileo once studied. - Verona, known as the setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, is filled with romance. Visit Juliet’s Balcony for a touch of love and history, or explore the Roman Arena, an impressive ancient amphitheatre still hosting opera performances today. - The Dolomites are a stunning destination for nature lovers. Though it’s about a 2–3 hour drive from Venice, the dramatic mountain views are worth the trip. Don’t miss the striking Tre Cime di Lavaredo and the charming alpine town of Cortina d’Ampezzo. - The Prosecco region is a dream for wine enthusiasts and is just a short drive from Venice. Explore beautiful vineyards, enjoy wine tastings, and visit lovely towns like Valdobbiadene and Conegliano, famous for their sparkling wine. Your private tour awaits Your private tour isn’t just about visiting famous places—it’s about experiencing Venice in a way that feels personal to you. Glide through the canals on a gondola, soaking in the romance of the city, or take a Venice food tour to try local favourites like cicchetti and black squid ink risotto. Explore beautiful Venetian art at the Gallerie dell’Accademia or join a cooking class to learn how to make traditional dishes yourself. With your private tour, you’re not just visiting Venice—you’re living its story. Let Venice’s charm and magic give you memories that will last a lifetime.
What are the best guided tours in Venice?
Here is a selection of the best guided tours in Venice: 1) Highlights and Hidden Gems Private Tour of Venice 2) Dolomites Sightseeing Tour From Venice 3) Venice from the Water with private luxury water taxi 4) Venetian Islands: Murano, Burano and Torcello 5) Highlights of Venice On A Private Food Tour
What are the must do things in Venice?
Venice, with its unique canals, historic architecture, and rich cultural heritage, offers a wide range of must-do activities and attractions. Here are some of the top things to do when visiting Venice: Explore St. Mark's Square: The heart of Venice, and visit iconic landmarks like St. Mark's Basilica and the Campanile (bell tower). Enter St. Mark's Basilica: Admire its stunning mosaics and Byzantine architecture. Don't forget to climb the Campanile for panoramic views of the city. Discover the history of Venice: Explore the Doges' Palace, a magnificent Gothic palace with ornate interiors that showcases the history of the Venetian Republic. Walk across the Rialto Bridge: One of Venice's most famous bridges, and explore the bustling Rialto Market nearby. Take a vaporetto (water bus) ride: Cruise along the Grand Canal to see the city from the water, passing by historic palaces and buildings. Enjoy a traditional gondola ride: Glide through Venice's picturesque canals for a quintessential Venetian experience. Visit the Gallerie dell'Accademia: See an impressive collection of Venetian art, including works by Bellini, Titian, and Veronese. Take a boat trip to Murano and Burano: Murano is famous for its glassmaking, while Burano is known for its colourful houses and lace production. Explore Venetian mask shops: If visiting during Carnival, consider purchasing a mask to join in the festivities. Discover modern art at the Peggy Guggenheim Collection: Located in a beautiful palazzo along the Grand Canal. Experience the vibrant Rialto Market: A lively food market where you can sample fresh produce and local delicacies. Savor Venetian cuisine: Try dishes like risotto al nero di seppia (black squid ink risotto) and sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines) at local osterias. Explore the art of Venetian Masks: Visit shops selling beautifully crafted masks and consider purchasing one as a unique souvenir. Stroll through Campo Santa Margherita: A lively square where you can relax at cafes, enjoy street food, and experience local life. Visit the historic Venetian Arsenale: A vast shipyard complex that played a significant role in the city's maritime history. Learn about the history of the Venetian Ghetto: Visit one of the first Jewish ghettos in the world and explore the Jewish Museum. Attend a classical music concert or opera: Experience a performance at one of Venice's historic theatres, such as La Fenice. Venice is a city with a rich cultural heritage, and there is no shortage of things to see and do. Whether you're interested in history, art, cuisine, or simply strolling along the canals, Venice offers a unique and enchanting experience.
How much is a private tour in Venice?
The cost of a private tour in Venice can vary depending on several factors, including the duration of the tour, the specific attractions or areas you wish to visit, the level of customization, and the number of people in your group. Additionally, prices may vary among different guides, as they set their own prices with ToursByLocals. The cost of a private tour in Venice typically ranges from around $300 - $700. It's important to note that each guide sets their own prices, which is why there can be a large variation between one guide and another. When planning a private tour, be sure to read the 'what's included' and 'what's extra' sections of the tour page. If you don't quite see what you are looking for, you can send a message to the guide and discuss customising a tour to meet your specific needs and budget.
What are the top tours in Venice?
Here are some of the top tours in Venice, each highly rated with over 40 reviews! 1) Venice Orientation Tour 2) First Time in Venice Walking Tour 3) Morning Venice - Sightseeing Around St. Mark's Square, Rialto Bridge, fish market 4) Venice For Beginners 5) Golden Venice: Most Famous Highlights
How much to tip a tour guide in Venice?
ToursByLocals guides set their own prices in order to compensate themselves fairly for the hard work they do and the time spent preparing for the private tour as well as delivering the tour itself. Therefore there is no expectation for ToursByLocals customers to tip their guide. Writing a review after the tour is a great way to show your appreciation to your guide as it helps them receive more inquiries in the future.
Do you need a guided tour of Venice?
Guided tours are perfect for getting in-depth knowledge about the history, culture, and significance of the places you're visiting. If you're interested in learning about Venice from a local expert, a guided tour can be very informative and an excellent use of your vacation time. While English is widely spoken in the tourist areas, a guided tour can help bridge the communication gap and ensure you don't miss out on important information. If you have limited time in Venice and want to see as much as possible in a short period, a private guided tour can be efficient. That way you are not restricted by a set schedule and can prioritise what you want to see in the time you have. Although private tours are generally more expensive than a group tour, they’re remarkably value: a good guide can provide you with insider tips, hidden gems, and local recommendations that will help you avoid tourist traps or overpriced places during your stay. ToursByLocals guided tours can be tailored to specific interests, such as art, history, or food. If you have a niche interest, a specialised tour can enhance your experience.
Can you hire a tour guide in Venice?
Yes, you can hire a tour guide in Venice. Hiring a tour guide can be a great way to enhance your travel experience and gain valuable insights into the local culture, history, and attractions. ToursByLocals has over 30 local guides in Venice who are local experts and offer a wide range of customizable private tours. They will work with you to customize an itinerary based on your interests and preferences. Private tour guides can provide a more personalized experience and offer flexibility in terms of scheduling and activities.
Where to go for a day trip from Venice?
Venice is a beautiful city with plenty to see and do, but if you're looking for a day trip to explore nearby destinations, there are several options within easy reach. Here are some popular day trip destinations from Venice: Murano: A group of islands in the Venetian Lagoon known for its long history of glassmaking. You can visit glass factories, watch artisans at work, and explore the charming island. Burano: Another island in the Venetian Lagoon, Burano is famous for its colourful houses and lace-making tradition. It's a picturesque and tranquil destination for a day trip. Torcello: One of the oldest settlements in the Venetian Lagoon, Torcello is known for its historic sites, including the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and the Church of Santa Fosca. Padua: A historic city located just a short train ride from Venice. It's known for its beautiful architecture, historic university, and the Basilica of Saint Anthony. Don't forget to visit the famous Scrovegni Chapel to see Giotto's frescoes. Verona: If you're a fan of Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet," you can visit the city of Verona, where the story is set. Explore the romantic atmosphere, visit Juliet's balcony, and see the well-preserved Roman amphitheatre, the Arena. Vicenza: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning architecture by the famous architect Andrea Palladio. You can explore his masterpieces, such as the Villa Rotonda and the Teatro Olimpico. Treviso: A charming town with canals, historic architecture, and a pleasant atmosphere. You can take a stroll along its canals, visit the Piazza dei Signori, and enjoy local cuisine. Chioggia: Known as "Little Venice," Chioggia is a fishing town located at the southern end of the Venetian Lagoon. You can explore its canals, visit the historic town centre, and enjoy fresh seafood. The Dolomite Mountains: If you're interested in nature and outdoor activities, you can take a day trip to the Dolomite Mountains, which offer hiking, skiing, and breathtaking alpine scenery. The Venetian Villas: The Veneto region is dotted with beautiful Venetian villas, many of which are open to the public. Villa Pisani in Stra, Villa Barbaro in Maser, and Villa Emo in Fanzolo are just a few examples. These are just a few options for day trips from Venice. Depending on your interests, you can choose a destination that suits your preferences, whether it's art, history, nature, or relaxation by the sea. Additionally, Venice's well-connected transportation system makes it easy to reach these destinations in a short amount of time.
How many days to tour Venice?
The number of days you should spend touring Venice can vary depending on your interests and how much you want to explore the city. Here are some general guidelines: 1-2 Days: If you have limited time, you can get a taste of Venice in a day or two. You can explore the main attractions like St. Mark's Square (Piazza San Marco), St. Mark's Basilica, the Doge's Palace (Palazzo Ducale), and take a gondola ride through the canals. However, this won't allow for in-depth exploration or the opportunity to visit nearby islands. 3-4 Days: With 3 to 4 days in Venice, you can delve deeper into the city's culture, history, and art. You'll have time to visit museums like the Gallerie dell'Accademia and the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, explore more neighbourhoods, and perhaps take a day trip to a nearby island like Murano, Burano, or Torcello. 5+ Days: If you have more than five days, you can take a leisurely approach to your visit. This allows for a more relaxed pace, the ability to explore lesser-known neighbourhoods, and the opportunity to take multiple day trips to nearby destinations like Padua, Verona, or the Dolomite Mountains. You can also savour the local cuisine in various restaurants and truly immerse yourself in the Venetian way of life. Ultimately, the ideal duration of your visit to Venice depends on your personal interests and what you want to experience in the city. Keep in mind that Venice can be very crowded with tourists, so having extra days allows for a more relaxed and enjoyable visit.
How much is a 7 day trip to Venice from the US?
The cost of a 7-day trip to Venice from the United States can vary widely depending on several factors, including your departure city, travel preferences, and budget. Here are some general cost considerations: Airfare: The cost of flights can vary significantly based on the time of year, your departure city, and how far in advance you book. Round-trip flights from major U.S. cities to Venice typically range from $800 to $1,500 or more per person. Accommodation: Venice offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $500 or more per night for a hotel room. Staying in the city centre is often more expensive, while accommodations on the nearby mainland may be more affordable. Food and Dining: Dining costs can also vary. You can find inexpensive meals at local trattorias and osterias, or opt for more upscale dining experiences. On average, budgeting around $30 to $50 per person for meals each day is a reasonable estimate. Activities and Sightseeing: The cost of visiting attractions and museums can add up. Consider purchasing city passes or museum cards to save on admission fees. Budget a few hundred dollars for sightseeing and tours during your trip. Transportation: In addition to airfare, you may need to budget for local transportation within Venice, such as water taxis and vaporettos (water buses). A Venice Card for unlimited travel on the city's public transportation system can be cost-effective if you plan to use it frequently. Day Trips: If you plan to take day trips from Venice, budget for transportation and activity expenses for those excursions. The cost will depend on the specific destinations and activities you choose. Prices can change over time, so be sure to research current costs and compare prices before booking your trip.
Where should I stay while visiting Venice?
When choosing where to stay in Venice, it's important to consider your budget, interests, and travel preferences. Venice is divided into six sestieri (districts), each with its own unique atmosphere and attractions. Here are some recommendations for different types of travellers: San Marco: This sestiere is the heart of Venice and home to iconic landmarks like St. Mark's Square and St. Mark's Basilica. If you want to be at the centre of the action and don't mind the crowds, consider staying here. Luxury hotels and upscale options are prevalent in this area. Cannaregio: Located in the north of Venice, Cannaregio offers a more local and less touristy experience. It's a good choice if you prefer a quieter atmosphere and want to explore authentic Venetian life. It's also home to the historic Jewish Ghetto. Dorsoduro: Known for its cultural attractions, including the Gallerie dell'Accademia and the Peggy Guggenheim Collection. It's a bit more laid-back and has a thriving student population due to its proximity to universities. San Polo: This sestiere is known for its charming alleyways and the famous Rialto Bridge. It's a good central location with a mix of accommodation options. Castello: The largest sestiere provides a quieter atmosphere away from the tourist crowds. You can explore the historic Arsenale and Giardini della Biennale. It's a great choice for a more local experience. Giudecca: An island facing Venice that offers a quieter escape from the main city. It's a good option if you prefer a relaxed atmosphere, and you can easily reach the main attractions by vaporetto (water bus). The Lido: A barrier island between the Venetian Lagoon and the Adriatic Sea. It's known for its beaches and offers a different experience compared to the main islands. It's a great choice if you want to combine city exploration with beach relaxation. Consider your budget and personal preferences when choosing the type of accommodation in Venice, whether it's a luxury hotel, boutique guesthouse, budget-friendly hostel, or vacation rental. Keep in mind that staying within the historic city centre can be more expensive, so if you're on a tight budget, you might find more affordable options on the nearby mainland or in areas like Mestre. Ultimately, the best place to stay in Venice depends on your interests and what you want to experience during your visit.
What's the best time to visit Venice?
The best time to visit Venice can depend on your personal preferences, as the city offers different experiences throughout the year. Here's a breakdown of the pros and cons of visiting Venice during different seasons: Spring (March to May): Pros: Spring is a popular time to visit Venice due to milder weather and fewer crowds compared to the summer months. The city's gardens and parks are in full bloom, creating beautiful scenery. Cons: While it's less crowded than summer, Venice can still be busy in the spring, and hotel prices may rise as the season progresses. Summer (June to August): Pros: Summer is the high tourist season in Venice, with long daylight hours, warm weather, and many events and festivals. You can enjoy outdoor dining and open-air concerts. Cons: Venice can become extremely crowded and hot during the summer, with higher prices for accommodations and long lines at popular attractions. Be prepared for higher tourist numbers and potential humidity. Fall (September to November): Pros: The early fall, in September and October, can be an excellent time to visit Venice. The weather is still pleasant, the crowds are thinner than in the summer, and hotel rates may begin to drop. Cons: Late fall, in November, sees cooler and damper weather. Some attractions may have reduced operating hours or undergo maintenance during this time. Winter (December to February): Pros: Venice in winter can be a unique and magical experience, especially during the holiday season. The city is beautifully decorated, and you can enjoy a quieter and more intimate visit. Hotel prices tend to be lower. Cons: Winter can bring occasional flooding (aqua alta), and some attractions may have shorter opening hours or be closed for maintenance. The weather can be cold and damp, but it's a great time to explore indoor attractions, museums, and cozy cafes. In summary, the best time to visit Venice depends on your priorities. If you prefer mild weather and fewer crowds, consider spring or early fall. If you enjoy warm weather and the vibrant atmosphere of festivals, summer may be your choice. For a quieter, more budget-friendly experience, consider winter. Keep in mind that Venice is a year-round destination, and each season has its own unique charm.