venice evening tour

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Hidden Venice Night Tour with Private Gondola Ride

Discover the hidden side of this unique city on this private Venice night tour surrounded by a dreamy atmosphere. Stroll off the beaten path through quiet streets and tiny bridges with an expert guide before taking to the water for a relaxing nighttime gondola ride. The perfect experience to uncover the charm and romance of Venice away from the crowds.

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What to Expect

Feel the intrigue after sunset when the daytime crowds leave on this Venice night tour. Take the path less taken by most tourists as you explore the city's lesser-known yet more romantic side. Then, take your mind off your guide‘s tales with a moonlight ride in a traditional gondola. As the sun sets, your gondolier takes you under beautiful bridges and along silent waterways for one of the most charming experiences of your life.

Venice Night Tour Overview

Nancy Aiello Tours’ Hidden Venice Night Tour with Private Gondola Ride offers the most evocative side of this top Italy destination and unlocks its inner secrets. Renowned for its romantic face, Venice has many hidden treasures nestled amid its squares, bridges and narrow streets. During the Venice night tour, your expert guide takes you on a leisurely stroll through the city top attractions like the Rialto Bridge, but you’ll also delve into the lesser-known spots that influence Venetian culture.

Have your camera ready for unforgettable pictures of intriguing sights that will chart your route as your guide fills you in on the stories that make Venice so fascinating. As you wind your way through a maze of quiet canals and alleyways you’ll discover many of the often overlooked treasures of the city in a way that will give them unexpected new meaning and life.

Our Venice night tour ends on the romantic note with a private gondola ride along scenic canals. After the walking tour of this seldom-visited side of the city, your guide will leave you in the safe hands of a master gondolier. Your local gondolier punts along the Grand Canal and into the labyrinth of intimate inner canals, navigating his way between striking architecture and beautiful bridges. Planning a honeymoon in Venice Italy? See our Luxury Venice Honeymoon Package .

• Venice by night private walking tour & gondola ride
• A journey through top sights, hidden alleys & charming canals
• A relaxing sunset ride in a traditional gondola, already pre-booked for you

What Is Included

• Private licensed professional local guide for the 2-hour walking portion of the tour
• 30-minute private gondola ride (unguided)

What Is Not Included

• Transportation during the 2-hour guided walking portion of the tour
• Food & drinks
• Tips (optional)
• Anything not expressly mentioned as included

Meeting Point

Important information.

• This private tour is available on request any day except Christmas Day, New Year’s Day, and Labour Day.
• (April-October) Suggested starting time 6.30pm – (November-March) Suggested starting time 4.30pm.
• Alternative preferred start times can be arranged, for further information please email your inquiry.

Good to Know

• Each gondola can accommodate up to a maximum of 5 people so with bookings of more than 5 people, your party will be divided into two or more gondolas.
• This Venice night tour involves a fair amount of walking, comfortable shoes are recommended.
• Regrettably, we cannot accommodate wheelchair users or those with impaired mobility.

How to Book Your Private Tour

• Send Us Your Inquiry Fill out the tour inquiry form and we will respond with availability and price quote.
• Payment Policy Full payment by credit card is required to make a reservation. We use industry leader Stripe for all card transactions.
• Tour Voucher Within two business days of payment, we will email you a voucher with all the booking details. Such email constitutes your proof of purchase.

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Last update: October 7, 2022

As ever, we put health and safety first. Since the first wave of the Covid-19 pandemic, all of our tours comply with the necessary safety and security regulations as per local guidelines. For more information, including specifics associated with requirements and restrictions associated with travel to and within Italy, read the following Covid-19 updates or consult the Italian embassy in your country.

(0 - 12 years old)

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The best Venice night tours & experiences with locals

A fairytale floating city linked by 400 bridges, Venice’s sparkling waters become even more bewitching when the sun sets and the city lights start dancing on its surface. Venice at night, when the canals clear out and crowded streets become quiet, is a totally unique experience. On Venice night tours with City Unscripted, you’ll see a storybook scene come to life. The nightlife attractions here are anything but raucous – Venice at night is quieter than many of its European counterparts, content to spend an evening sipping wine at a tiny tavern or feasting on appetizers in a cozy restaurant. Spend a night like a Venetian with us, and experience it all for yourself.

Meet some of our Venice local hosts

Like the people who travel with us, they have different backgrounds and interests – but they’re all so passionate about the place they call home, they choose to spend their free time sharing it with the like-minded travelers matched to them.

If you think a great night out can only be had in a pulsating nightclub or crowded bar, let Venice at night prove you wrong. The city likely won’t win any awards from lovers of rowdy revelry, but Venice’s nightlife still has plenty of things to do to keep night owls occupied well into the wee hours. The city doesn’t need a 24-hour party scene to give you a memorable night out – Venice night tours are perfect for live music, moonlit strolls, convivial chatter, and lengthy dinners. With your guide to show you the hotspots and hidden gems, the real Venice is yours to discover.

As one of the most popular travel destinations in the world, Venice is seldom not crowded with visitors moving between the city’s iconic landmarks on sun-dappled streets and gliding along in gondolas. While nudging through the throngs during the day is a struggle, Venice night tours are ideal for exploring the sights at your own speed. In Venice at night, maybe you’ll see a near-deserted St. Mark's Square, stroll along a quiet Ponte di Rialto, or admire landmarks lit-up against the night sky. And when you’re done? Sipping a quick spritz is the perfect way to end Venice night tours.

With so many after-dark attractions, you don’t want to get caught in a tourist trap – let us show you where locals spend their time. Venetian food is some of the best in Italy, so why not take our Venice night tours as an opportunity to try out the local cuisine? If you’re looking for authenticity, you’ll find it at a bacaro – a Venetian-style tapas bar serving small plates paired with Veneto wines – where the menu changes every hour and there’s not an English word in sight. Most Venice night tours are best begun here, rubbing elbows with the locals and trying some unique Venetian bites.

Venice travel tips and inspiration from our Travel Magazine

Find essential city info, the best things to do at night and lots of travel tips in Venice and around the world recommended by our local hosts

Latest reviews from our guests

She did a nice tour with recommendations and helped us with bookings and had a beautiful surprise at the end

September 2023

Maria is a wonderful guide. You will not be disappointed. She is very knowledgeable and extremely helpful. We enjoyed our stay in Venice because of her.

Maria it’s good person Thank you so much

We had a great time with Benadetta. I would use her again upon our return.

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Compass & Pine

The Ultimate Travel Guide

Venice At Night: Things to Do and Places to Explore

When the sun dips below the horizon, Venice transforms into a magical city of lights, casting a romantic glow on the winding canals and ancient buildings. The city’s daytime charm doesn’t fade with the setting sun; instead, it takes on a new persona, equally, if not more, enchanting. This article will guide you through the myriad of experiences that await you in Venice at night.

Exploring Venice at night is an experience like no other. The crowds thin out, and the city’s bustling pace slows down, allowing you to soak in the beauty and tranquility of Venice under the stars. Whether you’re a night owl or an early bird, the city offers a variety of nighttime activities that cater to all preferences. From serene gondola rides under the moonlight to lively cicchetti crawls, Venice at night is a world waiting to be discovered.

Join us as we navigate through the labyrinth of Venice’s canals and alleyways, unveiling the city’s nocturnal secrets. Whether you’re planning your first trip to Venice or you’re a seasoned traveler looking for new adventures, this comprehensive guide will help you make the most of your Venice nights. So, let’s embark on this journey and discover what to do in Venice at night.

Venice Night Tours and Other Excursions

• Tour the Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Basilica at Night

Four Seasons Concert at Vivaldi Church

See an opera at palazzo barbarigo minotto, get spooky with a ghost and legend tour, interpreti veneziani concert at church of san vidal, get to know venice with a 2-hour walking tour of the city, sparkling wine and italian prosecco tasting, street food tour, cabaret dinner show, the magic of venice canals at night, gondola rides: a must-do in venice at night, walk along the grand canal with stops along the way, other things to do in venice at night, go on a cicchetti and wine crawl through the city, visit the venice jazz club, avoid the crowds at libreria acqua alta, nightlife in venice: where to go and what to do, top venetian bars (bacaris), 1. cantina do spade: a historical treat.

• 2. Caffè Florian: The World's Oldest Cafe

3. Il Mercante: From Cafe to Cocktail Bar

Tips for exploring venice at night, venice restaurants and bars close fairly early, make dinner reservations in advance, is venice safe at night, wrapping up, frequently asked questions, what time do bars shut down in venice, what time do restaurants close in venice, what do people do at night in venice, is venice quiet at night, is venice dangerous at night, is venice beautiful at night, related posts.

As the sun sets and the daytime crowds disperse, a different kind of magic envelops the city of Venice. The streets, canals, and historic buildings take on a new life under the soft glow of the city lights. This is the time when Venice truly shines, offering a myriad of experiences that are unique to its nighttime ambiance. From exclusive tours of iconic landmarks to enchanting musical performances and culinary adventures, the city presents a plethora of night tours and excursions. Let’s delve into some of the most captivating experiences that Venice has to offer after dark.

Tour the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica at Night

Experience the grandeur of Venice’s iconic landmarks, the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica, under the enchanting cloak of darkness. This VIP tour allows you to explore these architectural marvels after the usual visiting hours, providing a unique perspective and a more intimate experience. The tour includes a knowledgeable guide who will share fascinating stories about the history and significance of these sites.

Immerse yourself in the melodious strains of Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, performed in the very city where the composer was born. The concert takes place in the historic Chiesa di Santa Maria della Pieta, a setting that enhances the music with its rich cultural ambiance. The performance is executed by talented musicians using period instruments, providing an authentic experience of this timeless music.

Indulge in the rich tradition of Italian opera in the historic setting of Palazzo Barbarigo Minotto. This unique experience allows you to witness powerful performances in different rooms of the palace, each chosen to match the mood of the opera’s acts. The intimate setting, limited to a small audience, creates an immersive experience that brings the drama and emotion of the opera to life.

Explore the eerie side of Venice with a ghost and legends walking tour. As dusk settles, a local guide will lead you through the city’s narrow alleyways and secluded squares, sharing chilling tales of the supernatural and the historical events that inspired them. This tour offers a different perspective on Venice, revealing the mysteries and legends that lurk in its shadows.

Experience the magic of classical music at the Church of San Vidal, where the renowned ensemble Interpreti Veneziani performs. The concert features a repertoire of baroque masterpieces, played with passion and precision. The historic church provides a fittingly beautiful backdrop for an evening of musical enchantment.

Discover the beauty and history of Venice with a 2-hour private walking tour. As the city lights up for the night, a local guide will lead you through its charming streets and squares, revealing the stories and secrets that make Venice so unique. This tour offers a personalized and intimate experience of the city.

Indulge in the flavors of Italian sparkling wine and Prosecco in a guided tasting session. Learn about the production process and the characteristics that make these beverages so beloved, all while savoring the taste of different varieties. This experience is a must for wine lovers.

Embark on a culinary journey through the streets of Venice’s historic ghetto, Cannaregio . A local guide will lead you to hidden corners and narrow streets, introducing you to the flavors and traditions of Venetian street food. The tour includes visits to local bacari (wine bars), where you can taste traditional small plates known as cicchetti .

Experience an evening of entertainment and fine dining at Venice’s first exclusive cabaret dinner show. Enjoy a five-course gala dinner as you watch a variety show featuring talented singers, dancers, and musicians. The venue, adorned with Baroque details, adds to the charm and elegance of the evening.

Venice’s canals are the city’s lifelines, winding their way through the heart of the city, reflecting the lights and colors of the surrounding buildings. At night, these waterways take on a mystical quality, offering a serene and romantic setting that is quintessentially Venetian.

No visit to Venice would be complete without a gondola ride , and doing so at night is an experience unto itself. As you glide through the moonlit canals, serenaded by the gondolier, the city’s architectural marvels create a stunning backdrop. The gentle lapping of water against the gondola adds to the enchanting atmosphere, making this a truly unforgettable experience.

The Grand Canal, Venice’s main waterway, is a sight to behold at night. A leisurely walk along its banks offers spectacular views of illuminated palaces and bridges.

Key stops include several of the city’s most iconic landmarks:

• Rialto Bridge, bustling with activity even at night
• Piazza San Marco, the majestic square, takes on a different charm under the starlit sky
• Accademia Bridge, from where you can enjoy panoramic views of the cityscape and Grand Canal

Even beyond its canals and historic landmarks, Venice has much to offer to the nocturnal explorer.

Venice’s answer to Spanish tapas, cicchetti are small plates served in local bars, or bacari. Embark on a cicchetti crawl to sample a variety of these Venetian delicacies, paired with local wines. This is a great way to experience the city’s culinary scene and mingle with the locals.

Address : Sestiere Dorsoduro, 3102 Phone : +39 340 150 4985 Website

For music lovers, a visit to the Venice Jazz Club is a must. This intimate venue hosts performances by talented local and international jazz musicians. The club’s cozy atmosphere, combined with the soulful music, makes for a delightful evening.

Address : C. Longa Santa Maria Formosa, 5176b

Dubbed as one of the most beautiful bookshops in the world, Libreria Acqua Alta is a haven for book lovers. At night, when the crowds have thinned, you can browse through the eclectic collection of books, maps, and prints at your leisure. The shop’s unique setup, with books arranged in gondolas and bathtubs to protect them from flooding, adds to its charm.

When the sun goes down, Venice’s nightlife scene comes alive (kind of). From historic bars serving traditional Venetian drinks to modern pubs offering craft cocktails, there’s something for every taste. Here are some top spots to consider for an evening out in Venice.

Address: San Polo, 859 Phone: +390415210583 Website

Steeped in history, Cantina Do Spade is one of the oldest osterias in Venice. This charming bar is tucked away in a narrow alley near the Rialto Bridge. It’s known for its excellent selection of wines and cicchetti, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

2. Caffè Florian: The World’s Oldest Cafe

Address: P.za San Marco, 57 Phone: +390415205641 Website

Located in the heart of Piazza San Marco, Caffè Florian is a historic cafe that has been serving customers since 1720. With its opulent interiors and live orchestra, the cafe offers a unique ambiance that transports you back in time. Whether you’re stopping by for a coffee or a cocktail, Caffè Florian is a must-visit.

Address: Fondamenta Frari, 2564 Phone: +393478293158 Website

Il Mercante is a two-story establishment that functions as a cafe during the day and transforms into a sophisticated cocktail bar at night. The bar’s menu is inspired by the travels of merchants (or ‘mercante’), with each cocktail representing a different country. The cozy atmosphere and creative drinks make Il Mercante a popular spot for a nightcap.

Exploring Venice at night is a unique experience, but it’s essential to keep a few things in mind to make the most of your evening adventures.

Unlike some other European cities, nightlife in Venice tends to wind down relatively early. Many restaurants and bars close around 10 or 11 pm, so plan your evening accordingly. If you’re looking for late-night entertainment, consider attending a concert or a show that runs later into the night.

Venice is a popular tourist destination, and its best restaurants can fill up quickly, especially during the peak tourist season. To avoid disappointment, it’s a good idea to make dinner reservations in advance. This is particularly true if you’re planning to dine at a popular or high-end restaurant.

Having lived in nearby Vincenza for two years, I can confidently say that Venice is considered safe for tourists, even at night. The entire city’s economy is built on tourism, so locals wouldn’t do anything to damage their city’s reputation.

With that being said, like any other city, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings. Italy is rife with pickpocketing, so keep that in mind as you explore Venice and its most iconic landmarks.

Venice at night is a magical experience, offering a different perspective of the city’s beauty and charm. From a serene nighttime gondola ride under the starlit sky, as you coast through the famous waterways to the lively buzz of local bars and pubs, the city has something to offer everyone. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a food lover, or a music aficionado, Venice’s nighttime scene will not disappoint.

In Venice, bars typically close around 2:00 AM. However, some may stay open later, especially during the summer or on weekends.

Most restaurants in Venice close between 10:00 PM and 11:30 PM. It’s always a good idea to check specific restaurant timings, as they can vary.

At night, people in Venice often enjoy dining out, taking evening gondola rides, exploring iconic sights like Piazza San Marco and Rialto Bridge, attending operas at Teatro La Fenice, and experiencing the local bar scene.

Yes, Venice is generally quiet at night, especially in areas away from the main tourist spots. The narrow alleys and canals take on a serene and peaceful ambiance.

Venice is considered a safe city, even at night. However, like any city, it’s advisable to stay aware of your surroundings and stick to well-lit, populated areas.

Venice is stunningly beautiful at night. The city’s historic architecture, illuminated canals, and quiet streets offer a magical and romantic atmosphere quite different from its daytime charm.

If you’re heading to Venice, let us know how you plan on spending your nights. Are you going to spend your time at the Venice Casino? Did you book an evening tour of Saint Mark’s Square? Or perhaps you’re going to head to La Fenice Opera House for a romantic date night. Let us know how you’ll explore Venice in the comments below!

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About Todd O'Rourke

Todd is an award-winning writer and filmmaker who co-founded Compass and Pine with his dog Leg. Together, they have traveled extensively throughout the United States and Europe, with their base of operations in Philadelphia.

He started Compass and Pine after living in Vicenza, Italy for three years and falling deeply in love with the country, the people, and, of course, the food.

His favorite city is Florence, Italy, and his favorite National Park is Olympic in Washington.

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Highlights and Hidden Gems Night Tour in Venice

• Tour Leader & Nature and Interpretive Guide
• Option 1 Campo dei Gesuiti, 30121 Venezia VE, Italy 7:30 pm tour: Meet your guide in Venice, Campo dei Gesuiti, at COMBO, near the well. Not the well outside COMBO: please enter the big door with a big COMBO sign, and you will see the guide waiting in the courtyard near the well. Google Maps Location: https://goo.gl/maps/4GYmXJAp6D1qBqeD8
• Option 2 Monument to Victor Emmanuel II, Riva degli Schiavoni, 30100 Venezia VE, Italy 10 pm tour: Meet your guide in Venice, in Riva degli Schiavoni, under the equestrian monument, in front of Hotel Londra Palace, at walking distance from St. Mark's square.
• Personalized pick-up is possible only if you book a private group. In case you did not book a shared tour in a small group but a private tour, please let me know if you wish to get picked up at any location in the historical center of Venice. Otherwise, meet your guide at the general meeting point in Campo dei Gesuiti, at Combo in the internal yard, near the well.
• St. Mark's Square, Piazza San Marco, 30124 Venezia VE, Italy We will end the night walking tour in one of the most scenic spots in Venice, walking distance from all accommodations in Venice. The water bus stop will be easy to find in case you need it to get back to your accommodation. The water bus service is running all night long.
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Near public transportation
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Most travelers can participate
• 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
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 10 travelers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute
• Chiesa di Santa Maria dei Miracoli
• Campo Santa Margherita
• Mercati di Rialto
• Campo San Barnaba

Similar experiences

• You’ll have 2 starting options Or, you can also get picked up See departure details
• 1 Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta detta I Gesuiti Stop: 5 minutes See details
• 2 Scuola Grande di San Marco Stop: 5 minutes See details
• 3 Basilica dei Santi Giovanni e Paolo Stop: 5 minutes See details
• 4 Equestrian Statue of Bartolomeo Colleoni Stop: 5 minutes See details
• 5 Chiesa di Santa Maria dei Miracoli Stop: 5 minutes See details
• 6 Mercati di Rialto Stop: 5 minutes See details
• 7 Ponte delle Tette Stop: 5 minutes See details
• 8 Campo Santa Margherita Stop: 5 minutes See details
• 9 Campo San Barnaba Stop: 5 minutes See details
• 10 Ponte dell'Accademia Stop: 5 minutes See details

• 875klarab 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Perfect private tailored tour We booked this private tour that exceeded our expectations: we wanted to visit the palace without crowds and take our time to catch the details and the real essence of the place. Valerio made an excellent job sharing the history of the Republic of Venice for us and the hidden secrets of the Dogis. We really enjoyed our time and I will totally recommend to anyone looking for a private tour guide. Grazie!!!! Read more Written April 18, 2024
• lou75169 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Marvellous Murano glassmaking tour with a local guide We had a fantastic tour of Murano glassmaking with Valerio and visited some amazing showrooms, factories and small boutique glassmakers. He took great care that we were looked after and engaged our kids so well. The kids loved making their own glass beads and will treasure their momentos. He knows the island very well and is happy to share his knowledge and experience. Read more Written April 11, 2024
• mildge2 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great tour of Murano and glass factories! Valerio was a great tour. As a native of Murano, he showed us some places we would not have found on our own. We made our own glass bead! Monica was patient as we were both new to glasswork. On our tour, we actually found a factory that offered classes on glass blowing. We returned another day to create our own drinking glass! Murano was definitely a highlight of our tour. Read more Written April 10, 2024
• marcgH20OY 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Vini Vici Valerio! Valerio guided us through Venice in the evening and its unusual links to LGBT history. He is a knowledgeable and professional guide who takes pride in his city of Venice. Separately, we went on his glass tour of Murano also. If you are a traveler who wants more from your visit than walking in the group behind the flag, then Valerio is for you! Read more Written April 9, 2024
• V4171CVbeas 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Unique experience we recommend We received interesting details about gay (LGBT) life in Venice, although there could have been a bit more of those ‘kinky’ stories. Valerio was extremly flexible when we organized the tour, and also with the meeting point. He speaks very good English! We highly recommend him and his tours! Read more Written April 6, 2024
• adairh_13 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great private tour with Valerio Our private tour with Valerio was awesome! He personalized it to our needs and was very informative about the palace and other significant information on Venice. Will recommend his tour to friends! Read more Written March 25, 2024
• 875klarab 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Perfect way to start our stay in Venice We had a great time with Valerio! We took this tour on the first day of our visit and it was just perfect. A good balance between informations and fun facts. He is a true local Venitian and it makes the diffence, you can feel it like the way he shows you the streets. He gave us plenty of tips and recommendations for things to do and where to eat and drink. I will definitly recommend this tour if you wanna get the vibe of Venice! Read more Written March 15, 2024
• Mary D 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Murano glass beads making! We couldn't have asked for a more patient teacher of lamp work and educator of Murano glass. Well worth the cost and no pushy sales pitch after. We had so much fun making the glass beads! A must when visiting Venezia, where else can you make Murano glass beads yourself? Read more Written December 8, 2023
• Travel39947531666 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Valerio Valerio, a local was very enthusiastic and showed us the non-touristic places as well. He was very knowledgable and fun. Read more Written October 28, 2023
• 539karissam 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing personal guide through Venice Amazing experience. We had our own small family guide all day. We got lost in the streets of Venice with a local. We had our 10 and 12 year olds in tow. He made it exciting for everyone. I would highly recommend!! Read more Written October 19, 2023
• Julie Z 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing Murano with Valerio Valerio was very personable. We certainly enjoyed him. He was so knowledgeable and fun and knew the area and the people well. The tour was so much more than we expected. He is from the area and was able to give us a wonderful behind the scenes look at Murano. Read more Written October 17, 2023
• grantd4 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great experience Valerio was great. Lots of local knowledge and insights. Took us to rarely seen gardens in Venice easy walking great views. 3 private and one public. Read more Written October 13, 2023
• faithsB5545ZJ 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles The historical importance of venice. Valerio was a terrific guide. We learned so much about Venice and he put everything into historical context which made the tour very meaningful. Highly recommend Valerio for your time in Venice. Read more Written October 5, 2023
• I7717SMamyp 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A great local experience Valerio was an amazing guide! He was friendly, knowledgeable, and gave us great advice for the rest of our adventures in Italy. Having a local guide really creates an experience of a local. So nice to have a private tour also! c’è like Read more Written October 3, 2023
• susanwC2620HV 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Lovely tour! We had a great couple hours with Valerio in Murano. As a local- he had so much to share. We visited a beautiful showroom with the very finest glass pieces. Amazing! Really breathtaking . We were able to try our hand at making our own glass bead at an artist’s shop. Monica was a great teacher. We then walked about and ended with a great recommendation for lunch. It was a perfect day. Read more Written September 26, 2023

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Highlights and Hidden Gems Night Tour in Venice provided by [deTour]ist - Valerio Coppo: Tour Guide. Take a detour in Venice, be a detourist!

Venice Evening Food Tour in Cannaregio with Authentic Sit-Down Dinner

Experience top notch venetian cuisine and wine with a local foodie and dine at a premier restaurant.

Are you ready to eat like a real Venetian? This evening food tour takes you to heart of the Cannaregio district for an authentic slice of life in Venice, tasting some of the best food in Italy! Your local guide is a bona fide foodie, and you’ll visit some of the city’s best local spots to enjoy traditional cicchetti, Venetian pasta, delicious gelato, local wines, and a Campari spritz to wash it all down. You'll also enjoy a sit down meal at one of the city's best pasta restaurants. Cin-cin!

• Food, food, and more food
• Meet your guide outside Despar Teatro Italia
• Venetian Spritz Demo
• Sample Cicchetti
• Regional wine
• Authentic Pasta
• Artisanal Gelato
• End your tour near Ponte de l'Ogio
• Real Italian gelato

You’ll meet near Venice’s famous the Teatro Italia where your food-obsessed, English-speaking guide will be waiting. Along with a group of up to 10 people, you’ll explore the side streets of the Cannaregio district, visiting one of our favorite bacari wine bars, sampling assorted cicchetti dishes, and tasting some of finest regional food and wine in Italy. You’ll also enjoy a sit-down meal with your group at one of the city’s best pasta restaurants. This foodie-led exploration of Venetian culture and history shows you a side of the city most tourists won’t see (or taste!).

Venice Food Tour Description

Your 2.5-hour tour includes:

Small plates called cicchetti

Prosecco, wine, and cocktails

Sit-down pasta dinner and gelato

Short walking tour of Cannaregio

English-speaking, local guide

Maximum of 10 people per group

Cannaregio and the Jewish Quarter

Your evening in Venice is set in the beautiful neighborhood of Cannaregio. Originally a working-class neighborhood, it has become the center of local Venetian cuisine and culture. Along with your local guide, you’ll explore the most populous of Venice's six sestieri or districts.

Within Cannaregio, you’ll also visit the Jewish neighborhood from which the word "ghetto" originates. As you explore the small canals and streets, you’ll see a more authentic, less touristy side of Venice that will make you fall in love with the city all over again.

Cicchetti and Bacari 

There are two words that are vital to know when visiting Venice— cicchetti and bacari . The word cicchetti comes from Venetian dialect, meaning "a small savory snack.” They’re served at various bacari (wine bars) and come in many delicious varieties. Traditional bacari date back to at least the 1300s and have become an integral part of life in Venice.

Your local Venetian guide will explain the history of bacari and why people visited them during the day (and even in the morning!). When Italians drink wine, they always have something to eat with it to make sure that they don't get too tipsy. So over time, the bacari started offering cicchetti and a new tradition was born: drinking wine with cicchetti.

Whether you have a sweet tooth or prefer something bitter, there’s a spritz for everyone. For example the Campari spritz has a higher alcohol content than an Aperol Spritz, and it also tastes more bitter than sweet.

The Select Spritz Apertivo-- the original signature Venetian Spritz-- has been a staple in the Venetian lifestyle since the 1920s and is a local favorite.

If you’ve ever seen pictures of people in Italy drinking a bright orange cocktail in a stemmed glass, that’s an Aperol spritz. Both drinks are made with prosecco. You’ll learn how to make the classic Italian aperitivo drink from an expert, local bartender.

Traditional Sit-Down Dinner

An ombra in Venice is a small glass of wine, but ombra means “shade” in Italian. Legend has it that wine was once sold near the bell tower of St. Mark's Square, where people could relax in the shade. So, the locals would say, "Let's go drink in the shade by the bell tower.” Today, it has been shortened to just one word: ombra. At the third stop, you’ll taste some of the local ombra as you sit down for a delicious dinner that includes some of the best pasta in Venice.

Gelato in Venice

No Italian foodie experience is complete without some refreshing gelato. On this Venice food tour, you’ll learn how to spot the difference between authentic and artificial gelato by visiting one of Venice's best gelateria or gelato shops. Your guide can tell you which flavors are in season, and what makes gelato different from the ice cream you have at home.

You may feel like staying out and exploring Venice after the tour ends, or you might need a rest after all the eating and drinking! If you're ready to head home, your guide will happily show you where to catch the nearest vaporetto (water taxi) so you can cruise back to your accommodation for the night.

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What you get with this tour

See what people are saying

158 total reviews

Fun, delicious and educational

We enjoyed the authentic Italian foods at three off-the-beaten path bars/restaurants. Our guide was enthusiastic and knowledgeable about the history, culture and food traditions. Wonderful tour.

I had a lot of Chicchetti for the first time and was glad I had them. I became very adventurous with food and had so much fun.

show more reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What to bring?

Comfortable shoes and a hearty appetite.

I have doubts about my mobility, is this the right tour for me?

Venice is a car-free city, so you'll be walking between stops and may come across some uneven streets and stairways. If you have any doubts about your mobility, we suggest taking a private Venice tour instead.

Do the tasting stops on this tour ever change?

Occasionally, the stops and tastings on this tour are subject to change due to seasonal/holiday venue closures. As the places we visit on this food tour are local institutions and family-run businesses, they can close at any time with very little notice. If this happens, your guide will take you to another excellent nearby eatery.

Can I bring my kids and do I have to pay for them?

Kids are welcome on our food tours, but we understand that sometimes young children won’t be interested in what’s offered. You don’t have to pay for children who are under 6 years old and won’t be eating the food. You're welcome to bring some food for them to enjoy. Otherwise, if children under 6 will be eating food at any of the stops, please choose the “Child” option when booking.

What if I have food allergies, intolerances or other requirements?

Please contact us in advance and we’ll do our best to accommodate your needs.

Can I still come if I don't drink alcohol?

Yes, you're welcome to come! Just reach out to us directly so we can work with our partners to accommodate your needs.

Free 24-hr cancellation on group tours! Learn more

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Semi-Private Venice Night Walking Tour & Exclusive St Mark’s Viewing

What to expect

Your LivTours Venice Night Walking Tour offers you a unique opportunity to discover Italy’s most enchanting floating city by moonlight. See the lights dazzle and shimmer across canals like an Impressionist paintings as Venice kicks off its shoes and eases into the evening. VIP access into St. Mark’s will allow you to visit one of Venice’s most visited sites with only LivTours groups, guides, and Basilica staff inside. See the golden Pala d’Oro without the crowds and have the rare chance to visit the Basilica’s holy crypts.

Weave through the charming walkways, footbridges, and hidden corners as you discover this serene city’s treasures, including ancient churches, St. Mark’s Square, the grand Ponte Rialto, and the impressive exterior of Doge’s Palace. Your guide will point out all of the fascinating clues you pass along the way that illustrate this mysterious lagoon’s captivating history. This is an ideal itinerary for curious travelers that want to avoid the hustle and bustle of daytime traffic and prefer to explore during the calm hours after sunset while the stars are starting to set the stage.

Why book this tour

• Explore the lights & magic of Venice by moonlight in group of 6 people max
• Enjoy the essential highlights and sites in the serene setting of nightfall
• See St. Mark’s Basilica by night with our VIP privileged entry & without crowds
• Experience Venice with our local expert guide who speaks your language
• Visit sites that are normally off-limits or crowded such as the Pala d’Oro or crypts
• Discover Venice’s labyrinth of footpaths, bridges, and hidden churches and plazas

Semi-Private tours and experiences are guaranteed six participants max.

Our prices always include tickets and reservations fees (no waiting in lines!)

Our tour guides and staff are selected experts and speak perfect English

Easy to book and prepay your tours with our secure payment system

Eco-sustainable tourism, designed to respect and support local culture, art and traditions

Tour gallery

Read more about your Venice night walking tour with St Marks

Your LivTours’ Venice Night Walking Tour starts in one of Venice’s most quaint squares in front of the city’s most ancient church, San Giacomo di Rialto. First built in 421 A.C., this incredible site features a well-preserved gothic portico and an oversized 15th-century clock on the facade. Listen to the wonderful stories of Venice’s origins and of how this very special church came to be built.

Your small group will be guided through Venice’s labyrinth of picturesque footbridges and winding walkways that connect its islands. Venice is a beauty to behold by day but you will find that during the calm and quiet of the evening hours, all of the intricate details hidden throughout the cityscape start to emerge. Take in the panoramic views of the city and Grand Canal from the highest point of the remarkable Ponte Rialto. Watch the gondolas with their glowing lamps as they pass underneath. Your guide will explain the history of this important bridge and its unique architectural design and redesigns throughout the centuries.

After traveling by foot through centuries of art, history, and culture, your group will find itself in the modern-day heart of the city, St Mark’s Square. By night, this grand square is quite surreal, with its many arches, the imposing Doge’s Palace, bell tower, and the breathtaking Byzantine architecture of St. Mark’s Basilica.

Your Night Tour of Venice includes an exclusive entry after hours inside St. Mark’s Basilica where LivTours groups and guides will be entirely alone, aside from Basilica staff. Admire the absolutely stunning mosaics inside as they shimmer and seemingly glow in the evening light. Discover the details and meanings behind every work of art inside as you wander through the empty Basilica. Take this unique opportunity to study all the details that are normally obscured by tour crowds, from the wavy marble floors from centuries of seasonal flooding to the brilliant, gem-covered Pala d’Oro altarpiece. Your visit includes an extra special visit below the church into St. Mark’s crypts – a holy area that is normally not accessible. This experience is one that cannot be missed!

This Tour Includes

• Ponte Rialto
• Campo San Giacometto
• Campo San Bartolomeo
• The Jewish Ghetto
• Various Churches and famous Campi
• Saint Mark's Square
• St Mark's Basilica VIP After-hours access
• Mosaics and Facade introduction
• Golden Mosaic ceilings
• Pala d'Oro special viewing
• Crypt under Altar
• Fully guided experience

Know before you go

• Please note that tour starting times are subject to change based on ticket availability
• Comfortable walking shoes recommended.
• Places of worship have strict dress code requirements for entry. All participants are required to have shoulders and knees covered (no tank tops or short dresses) to enter.
• There is no photography allowed inside St Marks Basilica.
• Guests with wheelchair accessibility needs will find difficulty with this itinerary proposed in this tour. In order to ensure a barrier-free tour with alternative routes, please book the private version of this tour.

Our Sustainable Tourism Promise

LivTours’ group size of max 6 participants is and always has been based on sustainable travel, and we are proud to be at the forefront of change and innovation in the industry.   LivTours is committed to providing travelers with truly sustainable tours with the lowest possible environmental impact, all while supporting the local industries and people of each unique destination. To learn more about how you can actively support sustainable tourism  and how LivTours is contributing, click here .

About our Semi-Private tours

All LivTours Semi-Private Group Tours are limited to 6 guests per tour guide. Our commitment to maintaining our uniquely tiny group sizes can sometimes be a little tricky, mathematically speaking. For example, we want to ensure that traveling families and friends can tour together so on rare occasions we may add one or two guests in order to not split groups. On that same note, you may also find yourself on tour with less than six people! We thank you for your understanding and flexibility .

Great tour. Worth booking!

Book this tour!!! Venice is enchanting at night and St Mark's is awesome! Great guide, well-organized, will always remember this experience!

Absolutely awesome!

We used LivItaly on a trip a few years ago and had the most amazing time with their guides so when we were planning our visit to Venice we looked them up right away. We feel so fortunate to have been able to participate in the special night tour of Saint Marks basilica. We met our guide in Saint Marks square where she gave us a great introduction about the basilica. The custodian opened the massive door to the church and let our small group (our family of four and one more couple) and guide inside. As soon as we entered they closed the door again and we were standing in there ALONE in the dark. The lights started slowly to turn on and our jaws just dropped when we saw all the golden mosaics. Since we were the only ones in there our guide could speak with a normal voice explaining all the treasures of Saint Marks. The tour also included a visit to the Pala d’Oro and the crypts which are never accessible in the daytime. This tour was a once in a lifetime experience and I will cherish it forever!

A once in a lifetime experience

We had the occasion to live this exclusive experience: we visited the St Mark's Basilica in Venice after the closure time with Livitaly Tours. We were only 6 people and we had a well skilled local guide that helped us discover many hidden gems in the Basilica. There were moments when the beauty left us speechless. I suggest to all of you to visit St. Mark's Basilica in this way: with no crowd, in a small group, with the possibility to take all photos and videos you desire and a very skilled guide that brings you in an enchanting atmosphere! Thank you LivItaly for this super experience!

Not to be missed!

The tour offered by Livitaly is an experience of a lifetime. It starts in the Piazza where I met Marie, an excellent guide. After an introduction, the visit to the Basilica starts from the narthex, splendidly lit, where I could finally admire the stunning ceiling mosaics. After that, we entered the Basilica and, for the first time, I could savour its magnificence since there was nobody else. The silence and lighting emphasized the golden ceiling. Included in the visit are the entrance to the celebrated Pala d'Oro and the crypt, which is inaccessible in the daytime. LivItaly offers an unmissable chance to experience the place as it should have been before the years of mass tourism. Don't miss it!

Choose dates later / Buy as a gift

By selecting Choose Dates Later / Buy as Gift at booking, any tour can be purchased without fixed dates. This is the perfect option if you want to purchase your tour as a gift for a loved one, or if you are in the pre-planning phase of your vacation. After booking, you will receive a Travel Voucher Code and full instructions on how to schedule your tours when ready. Once your travel plans are confirmed, you can easily use the Travel Voucher Code on the LivTours website to formally schedule your tours. You can find out more here .

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Venice at Night: How to spend your evenings in Venice, Italy

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Venice by day is a tourist machine, but at Venice at night sees a dramatic transition. Venice at night is absolutely beautiful, and this guide will take you through the best ways to spend your time.

The gaudy facade vanishes, the streets empty. Venice has taken off her stage makeup for the day, and beneath she is yet more beguiling, dark and mysterious. So how can you enjoy this special time of day to the full? Your evenings in Venice will be just as spectacular as your days, and this guide will help you nail down your plans.

Venice at night is a dream, and there are plenty of great ways to spend your evenings in this beautiful city. You may have spent the whole day exploring or just got back from a Venice day trip, but either way you’ll want to make the most of your time in Venice at night, as there are just as many great things to do in the evening as in the daytime.

Table of Contents

Quick Venice Travel Guide

Where to stay : If you are looking to splurge, the St. Regis Venice is a famous, 5* hotel. The Hotel Bartolomeo is a decent mid-range hotel, and those travelling on a budget will love Hotel Ariel Silva .

Where to eat : Locanda Cipriani and Il Ridotto are well-known places for authentic Italian food, but there are lots of hidden gems in Venice too. Don’t miss Ai Barbacani and Cantina Do Spade.

Top activities and tours in Venice :

• Walking tour w/ visit to St. Mark’s Basilica and terrace ($106)
• Small group guided boat tour of the canals ($45)
• Chiccetti and wine tour ($118)
• 3-hour food & walking tour ($96)
• Day trip to the Dolomites ($204) – where I discovered some of my favourite castles in Italy !

Getting from the airport to the city : After arriving at Marco Polo Airport, the best way to reach the city is by water taxi! In true Venice style. I recommend booking it in advance, whether you get a ticket for the “waterbus” or the shared Airport Link boat . For truly hassle-free travel, book a private transfer .

The best things to do in Venice at night

Visiting Venice in the evening is an unforgettable experience. As the sun sets and the stars come out, this city by the sea transforms into a magical place. Every night brings something new to explore and enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner, a unique activity, or just to soak up the atmosphere of this beautiful city, I have collected a mix of some of the most popular activities as well as hidden gems that will help make your Italian holiday one to remember. Here are my best tips and tricks for an unforgettable evening in Venice.

The below Venice nighttime activities are structured out in the way I recommend you experience them. From sunset to happy hour to simply meandering around the city. I highly recommend following this order for a truly magical night in Venice.

Side note (that I hope isn’t necessary): Venice is not to be confused with Venice beach, one of the best beaches in Los Angeles .

#1 Where to watch the sunset in Venice

Sunset is a truly magical moment in Venice, with handsome monuments silhouetted against fuchsia skies, or deep orange reflections gilding the lagoon surface.

Even if you are staying elsewhere in Italy, travelling here for a day to catch the sunset is worth it. For example, Venice is one of the best day trips from Milan to take, and it is even reachable from Tuscany !

Below are three of the best places to appreciate Venice’s fiery skies.

Fondaco Dei Tedeschi

Once a warehouse and living quarters for the German population of Venice, this vast building on the Grand Canal has been transformed into luxurious fashion store.

While well-known international brands are on offer, it also offers classic Venetian products such as handmade masks during Carnival period. Its crowning feature is a spectacularly positioned roof terrace right on the bend of the Grand Canal providing a view down both ways.

And if that wasn’t enough, the Rialto Bridge is right beneath. It’s free, so naturally, it’s very popular . This means you are only allowed 15 minutes up there.

Get your free tickets earlier in the day and then turn up for your assigned slot. In accordance with the period of the year, time your visit according to sunset for some magnificent photographs. During Carnival, some masked models also pose there.

Adress: Calle del Fontego, 30100, Venice

Riva Degli Schiavone

The sun sets artistically behind the Santa Maria Della Salute church, and the Riva provides ample classic Venetian foregrounds: gondolas, the charming oriental arches of the gondola stations, and ornate lampposts.

Take a stroll along this wide promenade and admire the Redentore church by Palladio on the Giudecca opposite, the white façade rosy with the setting sun. This is a must for your Venice itinerary !

From the Water

Take a Vaporetto (water bus) from the Lido to St Mark’s Square and, if timed correctly, you can appreciate the myriad of colours reflecting off the lagoon surface.

Alternatively, there are several boat tours to take that will bring you on an incredible tour through Venice at night. Make sure to book your night gondola tour in advance, as they tend to sell out.

#2 Where to go for your Aperitivo in Venice – Happy Hour

In summer the sunset coincides graciously with the aperitivo hour (from 6.30 pm onwards). On the main street connecting the railway station with St Mark’s Square there are countless bars. However, all are packed with tourists, overpriced and lacking atmosphere.

Below, I share my best hidden gems for aperitivo in Venice at night. Of course, there are other options as well.

Just like in Rome, there are several tours to join that focus on food and drinks for your evenings in Venice (I joined a Rome Food Tour during my trip there, for example!).

🍸 This Venice food tour is great because it includes a visit to the Rialto market!

Fondamenta Della Misericordia

To have an aperitivo at a reasonable price with great snacks amongst students and locals make your way to the Fondamenta Della Misericordia.

This long canal-side street is lined with ‘ bacari ’, the traditional bars of Venice. Their interiors are dark, wooden and generally pretty tiny, so the crowd spills out onto the wide pavement outside, resting their drinks on windowsills.

One of the highlights of the street is Paradiso Perduto . A classic dark wooden interior and a bar piled high with a mouth-watering range of Cicchetti (little pieces of bread with toppings or other little snacks, also known as the Italian tapas) particularly featuring fried seafood.

Order a plate of freshly fried prawns, baccalà (a Venetian specialty) and calamari with your prosecco or spritz and then settle down beside the canal on the sun-warmed stones.

Paradiso Perduto (Fondamenta Della Misericordia), Cannaregio 2540, tel. 041720581

Near the end of the Fondamenta is the unmissable Al Timon. The Cicchetti here are laden with intriguing flavours and the wine is good, but the highlight is the boat ‘terrace’ on the canal outside.

Balancing glasses of prosecco and plates of snacks, step (carefully) from the pavement and finish the evening sitting carefree cross-legged on a wooden boat.

Osteria Al Timon (Fondamenta degli Ormesini), Cannaregio 2754 tel. 39 041 524 6066

The Ghetto of Venice, just a bridge away from the Fondamenta Della Misericordia, is another less-touristy area.

Here you can find fascinating antique shops, bakeries selling special Jewish bread and sweets, and a burgeoning contemporary art scene.

In Calle Ghetto Vecchio you can find the bar Majer which offers a delicious range of pizzas and panini to accompany your aperitivo. You can sit outside in the square and enjoy watching the ordinary activities of daily life, so much more fascinating for their performance on the stage of Venice.

Calle Ghetto Vecchio, 1227, 30121 Venezia tel. 0415246737

Skyline Rooftop Bar

For a very special aperitivo you can head over to the rooftop bar of the Hilton Molino Stucky hotel on the western end of the Giudecca. Stretching before you is the skyline of Venice, accented with spires and domes. At night-time, this view is absolutely spectacular. Directly beneath you is the canal of the Giudecca shimmering with the colours of the setting sun.

Top tip: Booking in advance is highly recommended not only because it is a very popular location, but also because with a reservation you can take the hotel shuttle boat service to reach the Giudecca island from the Zattere opposite.

Many people plan their evenings in Venice ahead, particularly when heading to popular aperitivo spots like this one. Drinks may not be cheap (glasses of wine from 8 euros) but it’s worth paying a little extra for a view like that!

Giudecca 810, Fondamenta San Biagio, 30133 tel.00390412723311 Getting there: Vaporetto stop Palanca or Sacca Fisola

#3 Wandering around Venice at night

What better way to spend your evenings in Venice thank to take in the sights of the city by foot?

Venice is set apart from other European cities for some obvious reasons, but one to remember is how safe it is. Wandering around after dark is not dangerous here, in fact, it is recommended!

A silent canal is suddenly disturbed by the soft splash of a gondola oar, a dark street echoes with disembodied footsteps. It is magical to meander, without direction, around these winding alleys, feeling like the only visitor in Venice.

Even better, however, is visiting the sites that, during the day, are packed with tourists taking selfies and tour groups barging their way through the crowds. St Mark’s Square at night is unrecognisably tranquil.

Stroll around listening to the restaurant orchestras and gazing at the Basilica without being jostled by other tourists. Having a coffee in one of the bars lining the Piazza is certainly costly, but at night you’re paying as much for the atmosphere as for the drink.

Caffè Florian is the most famous, where secret conspiracies were devised over coffee and romantics like Lord Byron dreamed. The notorious Casanova even found it convenient for his particular exploits as Caffè Florian was the only meeting place at that time that admitted women.

If you are a fan of walking tours, joining a guided tour is just as beautiful and interesting as night as it is in the day. There are several to choose from, but I’ve linked a favourite below.

🤩This is my favourite evening walking tour of Venice, covering legends and mysteries of the city in an intimate setting!

Evening luxury in Venice

With the opulent palaces of the Grand Canal, the golden mosaics of St Mark’s, and the elegance of the Piazza’s cafes, Venice has always had a strong streak of luxury running through it.

If you want to follow in the footsteps of centuries of prestigious residents and visitors you can do no less than taking a gondola ride at night. Glide softly down the dark canals at night listening to the rhythmic splash of the gondolier’s oar without the bustle of daytime traffic and roar of motorboats.

Mingle with high society and have an evening in the dazzling La Fenice theater . Although having burnt down in 1996 it was restored to its former glory of gilded sculptures, lions and a magnificent chandelier (just imagine the challenges of bringing materials and construction machinery to the theater by canal and boat!).

Don a chic dress or smart suit and enjoy the performance as much as your surroundings.

Venice at night: FAQ

Below are the most frequently asked questions I’ve heard about spending an evening in Venice, and what to do at night in Venice. I have answered them as best I can. If you find that a question is missing, leave it below!

Yes! Venice is beautiful at night, and definitely worth seeing.

Walk around the city, watch the gondolas, go for aperitivo and watch the sunset.

Yes, you can. Venice is pretty safe, but always be aware of your surroundings.

Bars and restaurants are usually all closed by midnight.

Venice is a safe city at night. However, pickpockets tend to work near the touristy areas. As always, be aware of your surroundings.

Yes, Venise is absolutely beautiful in the evening.

The best tours of Venice (both day and night)

Venice, also known as the ‘City of Water’ and the ‘Queen of the Adriatic’, is one of Italy’s most beloved cities. With its winding canals, historic architecture, and bustling streets, it’s no wonder Venice draws in millions of visitors each year. But when in Venice, you don’t want to miss out on the best tours! From canal boat rides through the Grand Canal to guided walking tours around Piazza San Marco, there are plenty of ways to explore this captivating city. For those who love a good bargain (and why wouldn’t you?!), most tours offer discounts for booking online or in advance – definitely recommended if you’d rather not miss out on some great attractions! Plus, many tour operators have special packages to help you make the most of your time in Venice. So what are you waiting for? Get ready to experience one of the world’s most iconic cities and book your tour today! Below are some of the highest-rated things to do in Venice.

Final Thoughts about Venice, Italy in the evening

I hope this guide to nights in Venice has been helpful. Whether it is your first time in Italy, or the hundredth, I know you will love the city. Both day and night, it has a charm to it that you won’t forget.

To summarise, you want to spend your time after-hours in Venice wisely. Make sure you don’t miss sunset, before heading for aperitivo at some of the bars I recommended. Finally, spend some time strolling the streets of this beautiful city.

Read next: northern vs southern Italy – which should you choose?

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I love your Venice photos, Lisa, it looks so moody and melancholic in the dark! Italy, for me, is an endless love affair – I think I love every little corner of that country. I lived in Rome for 2 years, and I still miss all the buzzing, all the smells, all the sounds that surrounds you in Rome. I can’t wait to go back tomorrow, but I don’t think I’ll be able to return to Venice until August… We’ll see!

You lived in Rome? That’s so cool! 🙂 have a nice trip!

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12 Unmissable Things To Do In Venice At Night

Few cities in the world compare with Venice, Italy, when it comes to appearing on the classic travel destination bucket list. And few cities in the world can compare to the unique beauty of Venice, an ancient city that rises out over a lagoon and uses canals where other towns would use streets. Venice is a uniquely atmospheric place, and that's even more true at night than it is during the day. When the sun sets on the labyrinth of narrow medieval streets around St. Mark's Square and along the Grand Canal, Venice at night can start to feel almost otherworldly.

Thanks to a rich history, fascinating culture, and some great options for street food , Venice offers an unforgettable experience by day or by night. Whether you're looking to visit the iconic sights of La Serenissima or get off the beaten path and visit some lesser-known attractions, this beautiful city won't disappoint.

The best way to explore Venice at night is on foot. Leaving your bags behind with Bounce luggage storage in Venice or a fun night of exploring. With locations around the world, including in Venice, Bounce makes sure you never have to carry more than you need to.

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Nighttime Gondola Ride

Venice abounds in tourist traps. In fact, by some people's reckoning, the whole city is one giant tourist trap. But there's no point denying yourself a classic Venetian experience just because some blog somewhere said it wasn't cool.

Gondolas and their singing pilots are part of Venetian history and one of the classic experiences to enjoy when you visit Venice. And exploring the canals of the city by water is even more unforgettable when done at night. Enjoying the beautiful lights of the city and the Venetian Lagoon provides an intimate experience for you and a partner that you won't soon forget.

Be warned that this incredible experience doesn't come cheap. You can save a little money by taking advantage of a shared gondola ride which may not have the same intimate atmosphere but offers a more affordable way to enjoy a classic Venice tradition.

Harry's Bar

This famous bar, frequented by the likes of Ernest Hemingway , Katherine Hepburn, Woody Allen, Noel Coward, and Orson Welles, is a landmark in the city. Opened in 1931 by a wealthy American, Harry's Bar has spawned several namesakes around the world, but this remains the original and in many people's opinion, the best. Centrally located close to St. Mark's Square, the bar is dripping with atmosphere and is a great place to relax and enjoy a drink. It was even declared a National Landmark by the Italian government in 2001, which is something not many bars can boast. They also have an impressive menu of unique cocktails and serve a menu of classic Venetian cuisine along with dishes from around the world, so you can have dinner here and really make an evening of it while you drink in the fascinating history.

Doge's Palace

Once the home of the most powerful man in Venice during the golden era of the city's maritime empire, the Doge's Palace is one of the most impressive historic buildings in the city. And when the city in question is Venice, that's really saying something. This isn't exactly a hidden gem; in fact, the Doge's Palace is almost impossible to miss. But the museum inside the palace will give you a fascinating insight into the rise and fall of the unique city, as well as the lifestyle of its rulers. Best of all, you can take an after-hours tour that lets you explore the palace after all the day-trippers have gone home. With fewer people in the corridors, you'll be able to more vividly experience the history of the place and soak up the atmosphere of this beautiful building. And if you're wondering where to stay in Venice , this central area can be a great choice if your budget allows it.

St. Mark's Basilica

Located right next to the Doge's Palace, the stunning Church of St. Mark's Basilica is the most visited attraction in the entire city, and it's no wonder why. This ornate building situated in the famous St. Mark's Square looks like an artifact from another world. Inside, the gorgeous Byzantine mosaics are a relic of Venice's maritime empire, and the spiritual heart of the city makes a fascinating place to explore by day or by night. However, St. Mark's Basilica can get quite crowded, which is why an after-hours tour is a great option to see the church at its best. You'll be able to avoid the crowds and get a better sense of the atmosphere of this stunning building, and the tour even takes you to areas of the church most visitors never get to see.

Go for a walk

Venice is one of those cities where one of the best things to do is simply wander. Navigating Venice can be a real challenge even with modern GPS, but sometimes, it's better just to let yourself get lost. And that's never more true than it is at night. The historic heart of Venice is relatively small and full of fascinating streets where you'll encounter new historical monuments, intimate cafés, welcoming bars, and great restaurants around just about every corner. Plus, many of Venice's millions of annual visitors explore during the day and head back to their hotels or cruise ships at night. In fact, Venice isn't known for raucous nightlife or nightclubs, so no matter how busy they get in the day, the charming streets can be surprisingly quiet once the sun sets.

Seeing iconic locations like the Rialto Bridge over the Grand Canal and the Piazza San Marco without crowds of tourists in them is an unforgettable way to enjoy the city. Most of Venice is well lit at night, and it's a safe city to explore, so you don't need to worry. You'll also be able to capture some atmospheric photos of the empty streets, but no photo will do justice to the tranquil and immersive experience of being there.

Explore Art

Venice is home to several exceptional museums. One of the best is the Peggy Guggenheim Collection at Palazzo Venier dei Leoni. This museum of modern art is situated along the Grand Canal a little outside the heart of the city, but it's well worth making the short boat ride to get there. Peggy Guggenheim was an important figure in 20th-century art, and her collection includes priceless work by Miro, Magritte, Jackson Pollock, and Pablo Picasso . Like many of Venice's top attractions, this museum gets busy during the day, but when night falls, it's a different story. The museum often hosts viewing evenings and after-hours tours, so make sure to check the website for upcoming events before your trip to Venice. That way, you can explore one of the greatest art collections in all of Italy without navigating tourist crowds.

See a show at Teatro la Fenice

Venice is a city of music, and its showpiece theater, Teatro la Fenice , is a palace of performing arts where the opulent surroundings are almost as much of an attraction as the incredible music. Designed in 1790, Teatro la Fenice became one of the top theaters in all of Europe, hosting premiers of work by Italian maestros Gioachino Rossini and Giuseppe Verdi, among others. The stunning theater has been lovingly re-created after a couple of devastating fires through the centuries, giving it its name La Fenice, the Phoenix. And La Fenice is still going strong, hosting operas, dance productions, live orchestra performances, and other cultural events throughout the packed season. You can explore the theater during the day with a guided tour, but it's far more entertaining to see it as it was meant to be seen – by witnessing the spectacle of a performance in this impressive space.

Try your luck at Venice Casino

If you're a fan of classic casino games like French roulette, you won't need any convincing to visit Venice Casino. And given how much a trip to Venice can cost, you'll be forgiven for being tempted to try and win some money back to offset your costs. But even if you're not a big fan of casinos, you might be tempted to visit this one since it's such an important part of the city's history. Located in Vendramin Calergi Palace, this is the oldest casino in the world, dating back to 1638. The interior itself is practically a work of art, mixing the well-preserved opulence of an ancient palace with more modern décor. The casino is also home to the Wagner Museum, which celebrates the life and work of one of the world's greatest composers, who spent time here while in Venice. That makes it a great destination for history buffs, music lovers, and fans of great food who can enjoy the on-site restaurant. With all that going on, the many games are almost just a sideshow.

Take a Tour

There are few travel experiences that can compare to walking around Venice and taking it all in for yourself, especially at night. But if you want to learn more about the city and get a deeper understanding of its history, culture, and lifestyle, a local guide can prove to be invaluable. In a city as dedicated to tourism as Venice is, you'll find virtually limitless options for the kind of tour you want to take. And often, a night tour can offer a better experience than you'll get during the busy daytime.

Take a small group tour that will allow you to experience the best in Venetian cuisine with a Venice food tour. Alternatively, you could hear tales of paranormal activity on a spooky ghost tour. Or, you could learn more about the history of the city with a historical tour of Venice at night. Whichever you choose, you'll learn more about the city and get a deeper appreciation of what makes it so special.

Venice Jazz Club

If you're a fan of music, Venice Jazz Club is a fantastic activity to do in Venice at night. Located in Dorsoduro away from the crowded heart of the city, this is a hidden gem that not many tourists get to visit. The roster of talented musicians is always changing, but whenever you visit, you'll get to hear some great jazz in an intimate atmosphere, and can enjoy drinks and dinner too.

Skyline Rooftop Bar

Venice is a uniquely beautiful city, and you'll gain a new appreciation of it in this eighth-floor rooftop bar. Located in the Hilton Hotel , the Skyline Rooftop Bar offers an impressive view over the city and its network of streets and canals. Taking in the spectacular view over well-crafted classic cocktails or some good food is easily one of the best things to do in Venice at night and offers a different perspective on the city while you enjoy the elegant surroundings.

Caffe Florian

One of the most beautiful and historic cafés in Venice, Caffe Florian isn't cheap. And thanks to its beauty and its location right in St. Mark's Square, this café, operating since 1720, is often overflowing with visitors to Venice. However, your chances of getting a table and being able to enjoy the atmosphere are higher at night. Plus, the café often offers live music in the evenings, making it a fantastic place to relax and soak up the atmosphere.

Venice is known for its history and its beauty, but as the tourist crowds you'll encounter in the city demonstrate, it is in many ways a victim of its own considerable appeal. However, exploring Venice at night offers a way to escape the worst of the crowds and see a different side to this enchanting city. By dropping off your unneeded bags at a Bounce luggage storage, you'll be free to explore Venice at night and enjoy everything it has to offer.

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Venice tests a 5-euro fee for day-trippers as the city grapples with overtourism

The Associated Press

Stewards check tourists' QR code access outside the main train station in Venice, Italy, on Thursday. Luca Bruno/AP hide caption

Stewards check tourists' QR code access outside the main train station in Venice, Italy, on Thursday.

VENICE, Italy — Under the gaze of the world's media, the fragile lagoon city of Venice launched a pilot program Thursday to charge day-trippers a 5-euro (around $5.35) entry fee that authorities hope will discourage visitors from arriving on peak days and make the city more livable for its dwindling residents.

Visitors arriving at Venice's main train station were greeted with large signs listing the 29 dates through July of the plan's test phase that also designated separate entrances for tourists, and residents, students and workers.

Venice will limit tour groups to 25 people and ban loudspeakers to control tourism

"We need to find a new balance between the tourists and residents,'' said Simone Venturini, the city's top tourism official. "We need to safeguard the spaces of the residents, of course, and we need to discourage the arrival of day-trippers on some particular days."

Not all residents, however, are persuaded of the efficacy of the new system in dissuading mass tourism , insisting that only a resurgence in the population will restore balance to a city where narrow alleyways and water buses are often clogged with tourists.

Hundreds of Venetians protested against the program, marching festively though the city's main bus terminal behind banners reading "No to Tickets, Yes to Services and Housing." Protesters scuffled briefly with police with riot gear who blocked them from entering the city, before changing course and entering over another bridge escorted by plainclothes police. The demonstration wrapped up peacefully in a piazza.

Citizens and activists stage a protest against Venice Tax Fee in Venice on Thursday. Luca Bruno/AP hide caption

Citizens and activists stage a protest against Venice Tax Fee in Venice on Thursday.

Tourists arriving at the main station encountered almost as many journalists as stewards on hand to politely guide anyone unaware of the new requirements through the process of downloading the QR code to pay the fee.

Arianna Cecilia, a tourist from Rome visiting Venice for the first time, said she thought it was "strange" to have to pay to enter a city in her native country, and be funneled through separate entrance ways for tourists. She and her boyfriend were staying in nearby Treviso, and so downloaded the QR code as required, but she was still caught off-guard while soaking in her first view ever of Venice's canals by the sight of the entrance signs and her boyfriend telling her to get out the ticket.

On the other side of the entrance ways, workers in yellow vests carried out random checks at the train station. Transgressors faces fines of 50 to 300 euros ($53 to $320), but officials said "common sense" was being applied for the launch.

With Waters Rising And Its Population Falling, What Is Venice's Future?

The requirement applies only for people arriving between 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. Outside of those hours, access is free and unchecked.

Venice has long suffered under the pressure of overtourism, and officials hope that the pilot project can help provide more exact figures to better manage the phenomenon.

The city can track the number of hotel visitors, which last year numbered 4.6 million and is down 16% from pre-pandemic highs. But the number of day visitors, which make up the majority of the crowds in Venice, could only be estimated until recently.

Stewards check a tourist's QR code access outside the main train station in Venice. Luca Bruno/AP hide caption

Stewards check a tourist's QR code access outside the main train station in Venice.

A Smart Control Room set up during the pandemic has been tracking arrivals from cellphone data, roughly confirming pre-pandemic estimates of 25 million to 30 million arrivals a year, said Michele Zuin, the city's top economic official. That includes both day-trippers and overnight guests.

But Zuin said the data is incomplete.

"It's clear we will get more reliable data from the contribution" being paid by day-trippers, he said.

Venturini said the city is strained when the number of day-trippers reaches 30,000 to 40,000. On peak days, local police set up one-way traffic for pedestrians to keep the crowds moving.

Residents opposing the day-tripper tax insist that the solution to Venice's woes are to boost the resident population and the services they need, limiting short-term rentals to make available more housing and attract families back from the mainland.

Last year, Venice passed a telling milestone when the number of tourist beds exceeded for the first time the number of official residents, which is now below 50,000 in the historic center with its picturesque canals.

Venice mayor calls out 'imbeciles' surfing Italian city's historic canals

"Putting a ticket to enter a city will not decrease not even by one single unit the number of visitors that are coming,'' said Tommaso Cacciari, an activist who organized a protest Thursday against the measure.

"You pay a ticket to take the metro, to go to a museum, an amusement park. You don't pay a ticket to enter a city. This is the last symbolic step of a project of an idea of this municipal administration to kick residents out of Venice," he said.

Venice officials expected paid day-tripper arrivals Thursday to reach about 10,000. More than 70,000 others had downloaded a QR code denoting an exemption, including to work in Venice or as a resident of the Veneto region. Hotels in Venice, including in mainland districts like Marghera or Mestre, should provide a QR code attesting to their stay, which includes a hotel tax.

Venturini, the tourist official, said that interest in Venice's pilot program has been keen from other places suffering from mass tourism, including other Italian art cities, and municipalities abroad such as Barcelona, Spain, and Amsterdam.

But Marina Rodino, who has lived in Venice for 30 years, doesn't see the fee as the cure-all. Neighboring apartments in her residential building near the famed Rialto Bridge once inhabited by families are now short-term apartment rentals.

The corner butcher shop closed. Yet she noted that the new entrance fee requirement will still allow young people to flood the city in the evening for the traditional aperitivo, which can grow rowdy.

She was passing out mock European Union passports for "Venice, Open City," underlining the irony of the new system, and challenging its legal standing with citations from the Italian Constitution guaranteeing its citizens the right to "move or reside freely in any part of the national territory."

"This is not a natural oasis. This is not a museum. It is not Pompeii. It is a city, where we need to fight so the houses are inhabited by families, and stores reopen. That is what would counter this wild tourism,'' Rodino said.

Watch CBS News

Venice becomes first city in the world to charge day trippers a tourist fee to enter

By Megan Cerullo

Edited By Aimee Picchi

Updated on: April 26, 2024 / 10:37 AM EDT / CBS News

On Thursday, Venice, Italy became the first city in the world to charge day tourists a fee  just to visit its historic canals and other attractions on peak days. 

The measure is designed to counter over-tourism and mitigate the deleterious impact large crowds can have on some of the city's fragile sites, while also persuading some tourists to visit during less busy times of the year.  

The roughly $5.37 fee only applies on 29 days that are deemed to be the busiest between April 25, a holiday in Italy, and July 14, in a trial phase of the reservation-and-fee system. 

Most people entering the city must register and obtain a QR code, or a ticket for visitors without smartphones, but some tourists are exempt from paying the fee. For instance, visitors who spend the night in a hotel or Airbnb-style accommodation are not subject to the nominal tourist fee. Likewise, residents, people born in Venice, people visiting relatives who are residents, workers, students and visitors under the age of 14 do not have to pay either.

There is no cap on the number of tourists who may reserve a visit on a given day. 

In a public video, Luigi Brugnaro, the mayor of Venice, called the new system an "experiment" to protect the city. 

"We do it with great humility," he said. In a social media post , he added that the rollout was "going well" and "the atmosphere is relaxed."

Simone Venturini, the tourism councilor of Venice, added, "The whole world would like to visit Venice, and this is an honor for us. But not everyone in the world is able to do so on the exact same day."

Experts are skeptical the tourist charge will meaningfully reduce crowds or generate enough money to cover the costs associated with accommodating large numbers of visitors, like managing water and waste.  

"For cities like Venice, most research shows that an additional tax does not lower arrivals, as is often contended," Megan Epler Wood, managing director at the Sustainable Tourism Asset Management Program (STAMP) at Cornell University, said in a statement. "In order to address the invisible burden of tourism, new destination management entities will need to determine the cost per tourist to ensure there is an equitable and sustainable use of local resources. Once such costs are determined, tax reform will be required to cover these costs."

Some residents protested the new policy on Thursday, according to media reports. Some were seen clashing with riot police, while others tried to break through a blockade, CNBC reported .

The fragile lagoon city has a population of roughly 50,000, a sliver of what it was a couple of generations ago. On its busiest days, it can draw nearly as many tourists as it has residents.

A United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage property, the city features masterpieces from Giorgione, Titian, Tintoretto and others. 

Megan Cerullo is a New York-based reporter for CBS MoneyWatch covering small business, workplace, health care, consumer spending and personal finance topics. She regularly appears on CBS News 24/7 to discuss her reporting.

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Pay to enter: Venice becomes the first city to implement a tourist ticket system

Venice became the first city in the world on Thursday to introduce a payment system for visitors in an experiment aimed at dissuading tourists from arriving during peak periods.

However, it isn't the only place in Italy that has recently introduced new measures aimed at slowing tourist flows.

Here are some of the initiatives currently in force.

Venice tourist tax

The lagoon city has introduced 5 euros (about $5.35) tickets for day trippers, valid from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. The experiment came into force on April 25, a national holiday in Italy. Tickets will be needed for the following 10 days and thereafter for most weekends until mid-July.

Venice residents, students, workers, and homeowners are exempt from paying or booking a slot. Visitors aged under 14 and tourists with hotel reservations will need to register, but access for them will be free of charge.

Other cities, such as Como, have said they are considering introducing a similar measure but are waiting to see how the Venice initiative works before deciding.

In addition, Venice has said that from June, it will limit the size of tourist groups to 25 people and ban the use of loudspeakers by tour guides.

Florence tourist measure

Florence announced in October that it was banning new short-term residential lets on platforms such as Airbnb in its historic center. It also offered three years of tax breaks to landlords of short-term holiday lets who start offering ordinary leases for residents.

The city's famous museum, the Uffizi, offers discounts to people who arrive before 8.55 a.m. and lower prices off-season. To spread out crowds, it also closes at 10 p.m. once a week.

Cinque Terrer overtourism

The five villages that make up the Cinque Terre on the Italian Riviera regularly get swamped with visitors.

To try to reduce the overcrowding at peak periods, the authority which oversees the area said this week it would charge visitors 15 euros (about $16) to walk the most celebrated coastal path. In addition, the path can only be walked in one direction.

Capri tourism measure

The picturesque small island that lies across the bay from the southern city of Naples has doubled its entry fee, which is automatically added to ferry tickets, to 5 euros. The fee will be charged from April 1 to October 1.

Capri, Ischia, Procida, Lampedusa and Linosa changes

These islands have introduced limits, or outright bans, on cars for non-residents during the main tourist season.

Venice launches world first tourist entrance fee in bid to fight overcrowding

VENICE, Italy — Ancient and beautiful, this city is sometimes referred to as an open air museum — and now visitors to Venice will have to pay an entry fee after the tourist hub on Thursday became the first in the world to introduce a charging system for day-trippers.

In a bid to thin out the crowds that throng to see the canals, bridges and striking architecture during vacation season, day-trippers will have to pay 5 euros ($5.35) to enter the lagoon city on 29 peak days, mostly on weekends, as part of a trial phase until July 14. 

Tourists who have booked at least one night at a hotel in the city will be exempt from the charge, as will residents, workers and students in the city. Visitors under age 14 will also be exempt. But like the day-trippers, they will also have to ensure they have registered online and received QR codes.  

Those without smartphones will have to go to the city’s Santa Lucia train station to buy tickets. 

Among the thousands of people lining up at the station for a ticket Thursday was Donna Porter-Mutchler, a tourist from Tennessee, who told NBC News she thought the charge was “a wonderful idea.”  

“Venice deserves to be taken care of,” she said. “I think it’s more than worth it. I come here often, and I’ll pay every time.” 

While there will be no limits on the number of people who can register, officials hope the fee will put people off on days it applies. 

“We are not looking to collect money, tax people or introduce a police state,” Simone Venturini, Venice’s tourism councilor, told NBC News. “We are being democratic about it, but the important message is: ‘Please, if you are a day-tripper, choose another day.’”

While there are no turnstiles at the city’s entrance points to make sure people have passes, inspectors will make random checks and issue fines of 50 to 300 euros to anyone who has failed to register.

Prominent signs across the city and a TV and newspaper advertising campaign have been launched in Italy and some other countries to let people know about it. And with the help of artificial intelligence , Mayor Luigi Brugnaro has also recorded a video message in several languages to inform tourists about the charge.  

Officials in the city estimate an average of 50,000 people a day visit Venice, an influx that almost matches the resident population, some of whom are unhappy about the new charge.  

“Venice has turned into Disneyland, where tourists are catered more than residents, and charging $5 is not going to stop anyone,” Federica Toninello of the Social Assembly for Housing and the Solidarity Network for Housing in Venice said Thursday. “It’s just propaganda.”

Others, like tourist guide Luisella Romeo, said they were concerned about the use of personal data collected by the new system. “That’s an invasion of privacy. Those details will remain in the system for five years and could be given to third parties, public and private,” she said. 

But officials in the city, which narrowly escaped being placed on UNESCO’s “World Heritage in Danger” list last year, in part because the United Nations body decided that it was not addressing concerns that its delicate ecosystem risked being overwhelmed by mass tourism, have insisted that something needed to be done. 

Three years ago, large cruise ships were banned from sailing into the Venetian lagoon , and the city has also announced limits on the sizes of tourist groups.

While the charge in Venice is still in its experimental stage, other popular Italian tourism destinations, like Lake Como, which has struggled with overcrowding for years, are watching closely.

Only time will tell whether it ends up dead in the water.  

Claudio Lavanga is Rome-based foreign correspondent for NBC News.

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What to Know About Venice’s Fees for Day Trips

Venice is trying to mitigate overtourism with a small fee on busy days. City leaders hope it will make visitors more aware of the city’s fragility.

By Elisabetta Povoledo

Reporting from Rome

After years of debate , Venice on Thursday began charging day visitors five euros to visit its fragile historic center on peak days, making it the first city in the world to adopt such a measure to counter overtourism.

Critics question whether a nominal fee will put people off from visiting one of the world’s most desired destinations. But officials hope that it might encourage some to rethink their plans and decide to come on weekdays or in the off-season.

That might help mitigate the impact of the estimated 20 million visitors who descended last year on the city’s beleaguered residents, who number fewer than 50,000, according to municipal statistics . About half of those visitors came only for the day, city officials said. Overnight guests are exempt from the fee.

The spirit of the initiative, city officials have said, is to make people aware of the uniqueness — and fragility — of Venice. Overtourism is creating an economy solely based on tourism that risks killing the city by pushing its dwindling residents out, said Nicola Camatti, an economics professor and expert in tourism at Ca’ Foscari University of Venice.

When will Venice start charging?

The fee went into effect on Thursday, a holiday in Italy. For 2024, city officials have singled out 29 peak days when single-day travelers in Venice between 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. have to pay. The days run until mid-July and are mostly on national holidays and weekends. The access-fee website provides a list of the dates.

Who must pay?

While just about everyone visiting the city has to register to obtain a QR code, not all visitors have to pay the fee. Overnight guests at registered accommodations like hotels or Airbnbs are exempt, because they already pay a daily tourist tax, as are people who study or work in Venice and those visiting relatives. There are other exemptions as well.

Residents of Venice, those born there and minors under 14 are among those who do not have to register. But they must have documents that prove their status.

It is possible that different fees will apply next year on a sliding scale that will depend on how many people city officials expect on any one day. City officials said the fees could be as high as 10 euros per day.

How will the system work?

Before coming to Venice on peak days, visitors should use the website to register and get a QR code.

The code will be scanned at points where visitors enter, like the train station, the city parking lot, the airport and the sprawling waterfront along the San Marco basin where boats dock. The access points will have one line for tourists and another for residents and what officials call city users, who are coming into Venice for reasons other than sightseeing.

At least for now, those who do not register ahead of time can do so at some access points or on their cellphones, officials said. Assistants will be available.

Initially, the controls will be “very soft,” said Michele Zuin, the municipal councilor responsible for the city’s budget.

Speaking to reporters at the foreign press association in Rome this month, Mayor Luigi Brugnaro said the fee was not about cashing in on tourists. “The costs of the operation are higher than what we’re going to make,” he said.

Why is Venice doing this?

City officials hope to relieve some of the stress that tourists put on the city by encouraging them to come on less busy days. They also say that by knowing ahead of time how many visitors to expect, the city can better deploy services.

“We want to better manage the numbers of tourists and disincentivize mass tourism” that makes it difficult for residents and visitors to “live in this city,” Mr. Zuin said this month.

To track the flow of visitors, the city already monitors them via phone location data and surveillance cameras, a system some critics have likened to Big Brother .

Venice has also fallen under the scrutiny of the United Nations’ culture agency, UNESCO, whose experts are concerned that not enough is being done to protect the city. Last year, Venice risked being added to UNESCO’s list of Endangered World Heritage Sites after experts at the agency listed mass tourism , along with climate change and development, as a major threat to its future. It urged City Hall to take steps to ameliorate the damage.

The municipal council approved the access fee just days before UNESCO was to vote on its status, and Venice stayed off the “in danger” list . But UNESCO officials said in a statement that “further progress still needs to be made” to conserve Venice.

Critics of the access fee note that officials have not capped the number of visitors, and they say that the nominal fee is hardly a deterrent. As recently as Friday, city officials said that about 80,000 visitors swelled the city’s narrow calli, as the streets are known, and the gardens of the 2024 Venice Biennale , still the world’s principal place to discover new art .

How else is Venice trying to restrict visitors?

Venice also has taken other steps it hopes will reduce what city officials call “mordi e fuggi” tourism, or “eat and flee,” referring to those who seek the city’s greatest hits — the Rialto Bridge and St. Mark’s Square — and who bring packed lunches and dump their garbage, contributing little to the local economy.

After years of heated debate and protests by vocal Venetians, the city banned cruise ships from its inner canals in 2021 , though Mr. Camatti, the tourism expert, said the ban on the ships had not reduced the number of day visitors.

This year, the city imposed a limit of 25 people per tour group and also banned the use of megaphones.

Elisabetta Povoledo is a reporter based in Rome, covering Italy, the Vatican and the culture of the region. She has been a journalist for 35 years. More about Elisabetta Povoledo

Travel | Venice rolls out entry fee for day trippers to…

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Travel | sunpower details bay area job cuts, will slash more than 100 jobs in region, travel | venice rolls out entry fee for day trippers to stem overtourism, overnight hotel guests in the fragile italian city will not have to pay the 5 euro fee.

By Colleen Barry | Associated Press

VENICE, Italy — Under the gaze of the world’s media, the fragile lagoon city of Venice launched a pilot program Thursday to charge day-trippers a 5-euro ($5.35) entry fee that authorities hope will discourage visitors from arriving on peak days and make the city more livable for its dwindling residents.

Visitors arriving at Venice’s main train station were greeted with large signs listing the 29 dates through July of the plan’s test phase that also designated separate entrances for tourists, and residents, students and workers.

“We need to find a new balance between the tourists and residents,” said Simone Venturini, the city’s top tourism official. “We need to safeguard the spaces of the residents, of course, and we need to discourage the arrival of day-trippers on some particular days.”

Not all residents, however, are persuaded of the efficacy of the new system in dissuading mass tourism, insisting that only a resurgence in the population will restore balance to a city where narrow alleyways and water buses are often clogged with tourists.

Hundreds of Venetians protested against the program, marching festively though the city’s main bus terminal behind banners reading “No to Tickets, Yes to Services and Housing.” Protesters scuffled briefly with police with riot gear who blocked them from entering the city, before changing course and entering over another bridge escorted by plainclothes police officers. The demonstration wrapped up peacefully in a piazza.

Tourists arriving at the main station encountered almost as many journalists as stewards on hand to politely guide anyone unaware of the new requirements through the process of downloading the QR code to pay the fee.

Arianna Cecilia, a tourist from Rome visiting Venice for the first time, said she thought it was “strange” to have to pay to enter a city in her native country, and be funneled through separate entrance ways for tourists. She and her boyfriend were staying in nearby Treviso, and so downloaded the QR code as required. But she was still caught off-guard while soaking in her first view ever of Venice’s canals by the sight of the entrance signs and her boyfriend telling her to get out the ticket.

On the other side of the entrance ways, workers in yellow vests carried out random checks at the train station. Transgressors face fines of 50 to 300 euros ($53 to $320), but officials said “common sense” was being applied for the launch.

The requirement applies only for people arriving between 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. Outside of those hours, access is free and unchecked.

Venice has long suffered under the pressure of overtourism, and officials hope that the pilot project can help provide more exact figures to better manage the phenomenon.

The city can track the number of hotel visitors, which last year numbered 4.6 million and is down 16% from pre-pandemic highs. But the number of day visitors, which make up the majority of the crowds in Venice, could only be estimated until recently.

A Smart Control Room set up during the pandemic has been tracking arrivals from cellphone data, roughly confirming pre-pandemic estimates of 25 million to 30 million arrivals a year, said Michele Zuin, the city’s top economic official. That includes both day-trippers and overnight guests.

But Zuin said the data is incomplete.

“It’s clear we will get more reliable data from the contribution” being paid by day-trippers, he said.

Venturini said the city is strained when the number of day-trippers reaches 30,000 to 40,000. On peak days, local police set up one-way traffic for pedestrians to keep the crowds moving.

Residents opposing the day-tripper tax insist that the solution to Venice’s woes are to boost the resident population and the services they need, limiting short-term rentals to make available more housing and attract families back from the mainland.

Last year, Venice passed a telling milestone when the number of tourist beds exceeded for the first time the number of official residents, which is now below 50,000 in the historic center with its picturesque canals.

“Putting a ticket to enter a city will not decrease not even by one single unit the number of visitors that are coming,” said Tommaso Cacciari, an activist who organized a protest Thursday against the measure.

“You pay a ticket to take the metro, to go to a museum, an amusement park. You don’t pay a ticket to enter a city. This is the last symbolic step of a project of an idea of this municipal administration to kick residents out of Venice,” he said.

Venice Mayor Luigi Brugnaro declared the launch day, coinciding with an Italian holiday, a success, registering 15,700 paying visitors, 50% more than anticipated.

Venturini, the tourist official, said that interest in Venice’s pilot program has been keen from other places suffering from mass tourism, including other Italian art cities, and municipalities abroad such as Barcelona, Spain, and Amsterdam.

But Marina Rodino, who has lived in Venice for 30 years, doesn’t see the fee as the cure-all. Neighboring apartments in her residential building near the famed Rialto Bridge once inhabited by families are now short-term apartment rentals.

The corner butcher shop closed. Yet she noted that the new entrance fee requirement will still allow young people to flood the city in the evening for the traditional aperitivo, which can grow rowdy.

She was passing out mock European Union passports for “Venice, Open City,” underlining the irony of the new system, and challenging its legal standing with citations from the Italian Constitution guaranteeing its citizens the right to “move or reside freely in any part of the national territory.”

“This is not a natural oasis. This is not a museum. It is not Pompeii. It is a city, where we need to fight so the houses are inhabited by families, and stores reopen. That is what would counter this wild tourism,” Rodino said.

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