walking tours venice italy

Best things to do and see in Venice

In Venice there are many places to visit as it is one of the most spectacular cities in the world because of everything in it. It is located in northern Italy and is bathed by the Adriatic Sea, like Dubrovnik. Its streets, always accompanied by canals crossed by gondolas, boats or vaporettos, allow you to live a different experience than any other place can offer you. It has a main street that is the Grand Canal that is where they usually circulate (browse rather) a large number of people every day. Doing a free tour is a different way of getting to know Venice . In fact, you have the possibility of doing a more generic tour of 2-3 hours in which you can see the most representative places in the city or choose a guided tour focused on a specific neighborhood or theme. In any case, the places you should visit yes or yes being there are the following: the Ducal Palace, the Rialto Bridge, the Grand Canal, the emblematic San Marcos Square, Burano and Murano, two of the most beautiful islands in the world. archipelago of the lagoon of Venice, the palace Ca 'Rezzonico, the Basilica of San Marcos and that of San Giorgio Maggiore and the Basilica of Santa María de la Salud. All free walking tours of Venice have a local guide (guru) who can show you the least known and most beautiful part of the city. In addition, walkers who make a tour usually leave their opinions and ratings to serve other reference travelers. There are cities like Rome, Turin or Milan are also other similar destinations in this same area of ​​Italy.

Free walking tour near Venice

Others cities to visit after venice, find other guruwalks in venice, where are you traveling to.

The best walking tours in Venice, Italy (with prices)

With its labyrinthine streets, impressive architecture, and endless views of the lagoon, Venice is the absolute gem of Italy. Although wandering through the narrow alleys of the Serenissima without a purpose is one of the best things to do in Venice, booking a guided tour will reveal hidden corners and marvelous spots. And that’s exactly what the best walking tours in Venice should offer: the very local things that a traveler might not be able to discover.

The wealth of landmarks and their historical significance can overwhelm first-time travelers to Venice. On a recent trip to the city, I spent adequate time strolling around its streets. While the waterbuses provide a great shortcut ( read my Vaporetto guide ), it’s only through walking that you’ll be able to unlock the city’s secrets.

That said, in this article, I handpicked the top guided tours in Venice based on the areas they explore and the quality of the services. In addition, you’ll also read information about the itineraries, see some of my photos, and find the tour prices.

So, let’s dive into the Venice organized walks and see what you can expect from them.

Table of Contents

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The best walking tours in Venice & what to expect

As you can easily imagine, there are hundreds of Venice guided walks to choose from. Despite the overwhelming offer, most tours sell out quickly. Therefore, selecting the one that resonates the most with your interests will be time-consuming. To help you plan everything faster, I handpicked the following Venetian walks. Moreover, I tried to include a variety of itineraries and also walks that cover different interests.

So, here’s my Venice tours selection.

Doge’s Palace & St. Mark’s Basilica Tour (with Terrace Access)

Well, obviously, no journey to Venice is complete without a visit to the Doge’s Palace and the breathtaking St. Mark’s Basilica. This fascinating 3-hour walking tour around Venice will take you to some of the must-see spots in the city.

The St. Mark’s Square will be, of course, your first stop, and then you’ll step into the Basilica. This tour also offers a nice extra: a visit to the terrace on the first floor, from where you can enjoy fantastic lagoon views. As for the next stop, that’s the nearby Doge’s Palace, which will impress you with its stunning architecture. The Palace features -among others- famous paintings and state-of-the-art frescoes. Afterward, you’ll walk toward the Bridge of Sighs , and your guide will share background stories and local legends.

As you can see, these are the most famous locations in Venice, and visiting them leisurely is recommended. Millions of travelers visit them every year, and you shouldn’t miss them. The tour quality is excellent, and the guides are always skilled. Skip-the-line tickets are, of course, included in the price.

Duration : 3 hours

Price : 84 euros per person

How to book : Book the Doge’s Palace & St. Mark’s Basilica tour here .

Venice street food tour with a local (with tastings)

Although Venice is known for its magnificent architecture and atmosphere, food is integral to its culture. While Bologna is interconnected with the food culture and Siena with wine tastings , Venice has its share in the food and drink tradition. Moreover, the local cuisine is delicious, and discovering the city through tastings is a must-do for food lovers.

This street food tour in Venice will take you to some of the city’s best eateries while crossing famous landmarks. The tour begins at the San Marco district, and from there, you’ll visit the Rialto Market, next to the world-famous Rialto Bridge. After spending enough time at the market and learning its colorful story, you’ll visit Campo San Polo, where the Basilica dei Frari is, before you finally reach Campo San Bartolomeo.

Of course, this is just the itinerary. Along the way, you’ll stop several times to taste local delicacies, like Buranelli biscuits and Venetian cakes. Obviously, a delicious tiramisù can’t be missing, because it was invented in Venice after all! Last but not least, you’ll immerse yourself in the Cicchetti , the Venetian version of tapas that accompanies every aperitif. I found them highly addictive, and I ended up consuming significant quantities.

Duration : ~ 2,5 hours .

Price : 48 euros per person .

How to book : Book the street food tour here .

Bonus food tour : If you’d rather have a night tour and discover one of the most atmospheric neighborhoods of Venice, there’s a food tour for you. The Venetian Ghetto food tour will take you to the city’s Jewish Ghetto, where you’ll have the opportunity to discover its rich culture and tradition. Cicchetti and Spritz are part of this tour, which lasts 2 hours and costs 71 euros. You can book the Ghetto food tour here .

Hidden Venice: The Most Unusual Walking Tour

For people enjoying unusual walking tours, this is a fantastic option. But what is really an unusual walking tour in Venice ? Well, it’s a walk that takes you to the lesser-known and rather odd places of the Serenissima. The tour guide will share unconventional and unknown stories of the places you’ll visit. Yes, such places exist even in cities like Venice -and usually, they are close to world-famous landmarks!

Although a fair amount of surprise is part of this tour’s charm, I’ll share some locations you’ll see along the way. So, among the places you’ll have the opportunity to visit are Marco Polo’s house, the Campiello degli Orbi, where a fraternity of blind people used to stay, the Fenice, and also the Campo Santa Maria Formosa, probably the largest square in downtown Venice.

You also have the option to book a gondola ride as part of this tour. As I wrote in my Venice Gondola Guide , a ride is a must, even though it’s rather touristic, because it’s the only way to see specific parts of Venice. If that’s your only chance to get on a gondola, don’t miss it.

Duration : between 1 and 3 hours .

Price : from 28 euros per person (depending on the duration) .

How to book : Book the unusual tour here .

Mysterious tales of ghosts and murders in Venice walking tour

Despite some similarities to the previous activity, this walking tour offers a whole different experience. While some of the places you’ll discover are relatively unusual, the soul of this tour lies in the narration. The guide’s expertise in ghost tales and real crimes that occurred in Venice guarantees a unique experience.

Although you might think this is a tour that might feel like an audio guide, I can assure you it’s not. On the contrary, it is highly visual, and you’ll come across peculiar spots like a bizarre engraving on a stone or a heart painted on a wall. All the tour elements are carefully curated by the tour guide and enriched by his deep knowledge of Venice’s mysteries.

If escape rooms intrigue you or ghost stories fascinate you, these tales of magic are the best way to explore Venice: narrow calle and dimly-lit alleys portray a Venice that lies off the tourist path.

Duration : 1,5 hours .

Price : 39 euros .

How to book : Book the ghosts and murders tour here .

Venice Rooftop Terraces (with prosecco)

For some people, Italy is synonymous with Prosecco and Aperitivo (myself included). If you are a traveler who always enjoys breathtaking rooftop views , one of the best walking tours in Venice is this guided walk around Venice. In this guided walk, you’ll see panoramic city views from various hidden rooftops.

Although the tour starts from the beautiful San Polo sestiere, you’ll soon find yourself visiting different neighborhoods of Venice. Entering a Venetian Palazzo is not something you can enjoy every day, and seeing rooftop views of the Grand Canal or the Rialto Bridge is a fantastic experience. The Red Light District of Venice, the iconic market of Rialto, and lesser-known terraces that travelers won’t easily find create an unforgettable tour.

At the tour’s end, you’ll enjoy a glass of Prosecco while discussing with your guide about one of the most beautiful cities on Earth.

Duration : 2,5 hours .

Price : 75 euros .

How to book : Book here the rooftop tour .

The Footsteps of Commissario Brunetti Venice Walking Tour

Last but definitely not least, a literary tour in Venice couldn’t be missing from this guide. There’s a plethora of books set in Venice, and some of them have sealed the city’s history. One such case is Commissario Brunetti , the character created by the American novelist Donna Leon , and it later became a successful television series.

This guided walking tour in Venice will take its participants to filming locations of the TV series, parts of which were filmed exclusively in Venice. Apart from meeting like-minded Guide Brunetti fans, you’ll also visit locations immortalized in the series while refreshing your knowledge about the whereabouts of the famous Commissario. Even the hardest-to-find palazzos that Brunetti visited are part of this walking tour in Venice, and your guide will share info about specific locations featured in the episodes.

And here’s a sweet extra: your guide is so knowledgeable that it will even take you to places where Guide Brunetti ate and drank.

Duration : 2 hours .

Price : 143 euros per person .

How to book : Book here the Commissario Brunetti tour .

Quick tips for your Venice walking tour

Due to the city’s unique landscape, I’ll add 5 quick tips for your walking tours in Venice. Even if you book guided walks in Venice that aren’t part of this guide, there are some things to keep in mind.

So, here are my tips for your Venice walking tours:

• Wear comfortable shoes . The city’s old and narrow alleys require a comfortable pair of shoes. Strolling around the city is fantastic but also tiring.
• Choose weather-appropriate clothes . Venice’s weather has a reputation for changing fast, so make sure to dress appropriately. Never underestimate how cold Venice can be in the winter and how hot it can be during the summer. Plus, the walking tours in Venice take place rain or shine.
• Have a small umbrella with you . It rains often in Venice, so it’s better to pack a small umbrella even if you visit during the summer.
• Aqua Alta season = boots . This is interconnected with the previous tips if you visit Venice between autumn and spring. Aqua Alta refers to high tide peaks that flood the entire city. Yes, it’s a misfortune if it happens while you are there, but it’s also part of the city’s story. Don’t let the Aqua Alta ruin your journey—bring boots and follow closely the authorities’ updates and the weather forecast.
• Arrive earlier at the meeting point . Unless otherwise stated in your Venice walking tour booking reference, there’s always a designated meeting point for the tours. Arrive at least 10 minutes earlier at the spot to ensure you’re not left behind.

The best walking tours in Venice: conclusion

Venice is one of the prettiest and most legendary cities in the world. Joining a walking tour in Venice is always recommended due to the city’s historical background. Without a guide, you won’t probably be able to explore everything the city offers and see its secret corners.

As you’ve read in the previous line, the handpicked selection I presented intends to cover every aspect of local life: from food tours to literary walks and from skip-the-line tickets to unusual city corners. All these guided walks in Venice have in common the excellent quality of services, the knowledgeable tour guides, and the overall experience they offer.

So, choose a walking tour in Venice (or more) that resonates with your interests the most and immerse yourself in one of the most fascinating cities you’ll ever visit.

More about Venice : Where to stay in Venice , Lido travel guide , Marco Polo Airport Guide , Burano guide , Ponte dell’Accademia , The Biennale

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Last Updated on March 9, 2024 by George Pavlopoulos

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9 Best Walking Tours of Venice Italy

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read  full disclosure  for more information.

Venice, Italy , is a city known for its canals, gondolas, and its architecture. However, if you’re looking to see more than just the well-known sights, consider taking one of the best walking tours of Venice . 

While spending a semester abroad, I was able to explore the beautiful city of Venice and see so many of its top spots. So, I can vouch for how great these tours are!

These tours take you around some of the lesser-known neighborhoods, such as Castello and Santa Maria Della Salute, and give you an insider’s look at the city’s history and culture. Some of them even include some tasty food or other treats along the way!

Keep reading to learn more about the best walking tours of Venice!

Table of Contents

Top Picks: Venice Walking Tours

Private 4 hrs Venice Tour: St Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace and Secret Venice

✅ Visit St Mark’s Basilica

✅ Visit Doge’s Palace

✅ See hidden gems

Best of Venice Tour with St Mark’s Basilica and Grand Canal Boat tour

✅ Grand Canal boat tour

✅ Skip the line at St Mark’s Basilica

✅ Stop by many other top landmarks

Venice Walking Tour and Gondola Ride

✅ Gondola ride

✅ 2.5 hour tour

✅ Walking tour with top landmarks

Best Walking Tours of Venice

⭐️ Rating : 4.5 out of 5 Stars ( 212 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 4 hours | ✅ Includes: Local guide, skip the line at St Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace | 🇮🇹 Book now

First up is one of the best Venice walking tours for those interested in history and architecture. It’s about four hours long and allows you to also save money and time by skipping the line at Doge’s Palace and St Mark’s Basilica.

The tour includes the skip the line access and a local guide in English. Guests will be provided with headsets depending on the size of the group for the tour so that everyone can hear the guide clearly throughout it.

This tour starts right in Piazza San Marco, and then you go right into Doge’s Palace for a two-hour tour. Then, head to Scaala dei Giganti di Palazza Ducale, Porta Della Carta, Basilica di San Marco, and Campo Sanatta Maria Formosa.

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⭐️ Rating : 4 out of 5 Stars ( 3324 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 3 hours | ✅ Includes: Professional guide, Grand Canal boat tour (1 hour), Best of Venice & St Marks Basilica (2 hours), skip the line at St Mark’s Basilica | 🇮🇹 Book now

Let’s be honest; one of the best things to do in Venice is to go on a boat tour, right? So, that’s why this is one of the best walking tours in Venice! It includes a Grand Canal boat tour which is truly an unforgettable experience.

The tour lasts about three hours maximum and includes skip-the-line admission at St Mark’s Basilica. The tour includes a one-hour boat tour, a Venice walking tour with skip-the-line tickets at St Mark’s Basilica, and a guide who speaks English. Depending on the size of your group, you may receive a headset to hear at all times.

This Venice walking tour begins at Piazza San Marco and goes right into Basilica di San Marco. After, other stops or places passed by, including Campo Santa Maria Formosa, Calle del Paradiso, and Ponte di Rialto. It ends with the one-hour group boat tour on the Grand Canal with no more than eight people per boat.

⭐️ Rating : 3.5 out of 5 Stars ( 3142 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 2 hours | ✅ Includes: Guide, gondola ride | 🇮🇹 Book now

This is one of the most popular Venice Italy walking tours that you won’t want to miss out on! It’s about two and half hours long at most and includes all of the best parts of Venice.

Guests will receive a professional guide and a gondola ride for thirty minutes with the tour price. Usually, a gondola ride can be one hundred euros, so it’s great to book it on this tour. Depending on the time of year you book it, you could have significant savings versus booking a gondola ride on your own.

The tour starts at St Mark’s Square and includes stops along the way at Canal Grande, Ponte di Rialto, Piazza San Marco, and finally at Gondola Bacino Orseolo, where you’ll take your gondola ride near St Mark’s Square.

Morning Walking Tour of Venice Plus Gondola Ride

⭐️ Rating : 4 out of 5 Stars ( 97 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 3 hours | ✅ Includes: Tour, gondola ride | 🇮🇹 Book now

Beat the heat and the crowds with this Venice-guided walking tour! So many people visit Venice later in the day, so this is the perfect way to explore the city. Plus, it also includes a gondola ride, which is an absolute must-do in Venice.

This tour, in particular, is three hours long and includes a guided walking tour and a gondola ride. It starts around 9 a.m. and leaves from near the Correr Museum at the TURIVE kiosk. 

This walking in Venice tour starts at the Canal Grande, where you’ll begin to learn about the city’s history. Then, head to Piazza San Marco, Casa di Marco Polo, Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute, Teatro La Fenice, Basilica dei Santi Giovanni e Paolo, and finally, at Campo Santa Maria Formosa.

Venice Sightseeing Walking Tour with a Local Guide

⭐️ Rating : 4.5 out of 5 Stars ( 664 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 2 hours | ✅ Includes: Local guide, tour | 🇮🇹 Book now

Another of the excellent tours Venice is this tour with a local guide. Again, it’s a short tour that’s only about two hours long, but that’s perfect for getting acquainted with the city. The tour includes access to a local tour guide who speaks English for the tour.

The tour has quite a few spots along the way. It begins at Piazza San Marco and then continues onto Scuola Grandi di San Rocco. Then, stop at Ponte di Rialto, Casa di Marco Polo, Basilica dei Santi Giovanni e Paolo, Campo Santa Margherita, and the Church of San Pantalon.

Along the way, be sure to ask your tour guide questions because they’re super knowledgeable about the area. Depending on what you ask, you may even learn about some hidden gems in the city!

Unusual Venice Walking Tour

⭐️ Rating : 4 out of 5 Stars ( 224 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 2 hours | ✅ Includes: Tour, guide | 🇮🇹 Book now

Do you want a more quirky walking tour experience in Venice? Then check out this one! It lasts about two hours long and focuses on history but also visits lots of hidden and off-the-beaten-path Venice locations that you may not know about. 

The tour includes access to a guide who will inform you about what you see throughout the tour. Hotel pick-up is not included, so be sure to make it to the departure time at the meeting place near Piazza San Marco.

SSome spots along the way include Campo Santa Maria Formosa, Campo Santti Giovanni e Paolo, Casa di Marco Polo, Ponte di Riaalto, Teatro La Fenice, and of course, Piazza San Marco.

Venice Photography Walking Tour with Private Guide

⭐️ Rating : 5 out of 5 Stars ( 57 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 3 hours | ✅ Includes: Photographer guide | 🇮🇹 Book now

If visiting Venice Instagram spots is an absolute must for you, then you should check out this tour. It lasts about three hours long and is perfect if having great photo memories of your trip is essential to you.

The tour includes a professional photographer guide who will give you tips on how to get the best photo throughout the tour. You will have to bring your own camera or your phone for photography. The guide is just there to help you get the perfect shot!

There are two different tour options. You can do the Day in the Life of Venice Daytime Tour, which focuses on movement and photography skills, or there’s the Sunset Tour which is a lot more based on landscape and architecture. Both are great options!

Private Tour: Venice Half-Day Walking Tour

⭐️ Rating : 4.5 out of 5 Stars ( 118 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 3 hours | ✅ Includes: Guide, tour | 🇮🇹 Book now

Even though it’s a bit pricier, one of the top walking tours of Venice is this one! What makes it so different from other tour options is that it is a private tour, meaning that you’ll have more of an intimate experience throughout the tour.

It’s a three-hour tour that includes some incredible stops. There are also multiple departure times throughout the day, so you can really tailor the tour to your own personal itinerary and schedule if needed.

This tour includes a professional guide, commentary along the way, a walking tour, and even an appetizer and glass of wine at a local bar.

The tour passes by and walks through many attractions and neighborhoods that everyone should visit in Venice. Some spots include Ponte di Rialto, Mercati di Rialto, Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frarai, Campo San Polo, Chiesa della Madonna dell’Orto, Cannaregio, Teaatro La Fenice, and more.

Skip the Line: Best of Venice Walking Tour with St Mark’s Basilica

⭐️ Rating : 4 out of 5 Stars ( 1019 reviews ) | ⏳ Tour length : 2 hours | ✅ Includes: Tour, guide, skip the line at St Mark’s Basilica | 🇮🇹 Book now

Last but not least is another skip-the-line tour at St Mark’s Basilica! It’s two hours long and is perfect for those who want to learn about hidden Venice and the city’s architecture and history.

The tour includes a walking tour, a guide who’s local and speaks English, skip-the-line tickets to St Mark’s Basilica, and headsets depending on the size of your tour group.

The tour beings right at Piazza Saan Marco and then allows you to skip the line at the basilica, where you’ll spend thirty minutes exploring and learning about the history. Be sure to pay close attention to the interesting architecture. Then, other stops include Campo Santa Maria Formosa and a pass by Calle del Paradiso.

Final Thoughts: Best Venice Walking Tours

Taking one of the top walking tours of Venice is the perfect way to see all the city has to offer. The knowledgeable guides will show you the best places to eat, drink, and shop while also providing historical information about the city.

So if you’re looking for a unique and fascinating travel experience, sign up for a walking tour of Venice!

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More Italy Posts

A trip to Italy is truly unforgettable! We have tons more Italy posts to help you plan your trip. Check them out below!

• Is Venice Worth Visiting? 9 Reasons to Consider Visiting

Italy Bucket List: 27 Best Things to do in Italy

• Venice Instagram Spots: 15 Best Places to Take a Picture in Venice, Italy
• 13 Free Things To Do In Venice, Italy

16 Best Foods to Eat in Italy

• 14 Most Beautiful Cities in Italy

How to Spend One Day in Venice, Italy

KP is the head blogger and founder behind Volumes & Voyages. After studying abroad in Dublin for a semester, KP got bitten by the travel bug. Now, she writes articles to help other travelers in between trips where she chases her wanderlust. KP has lived in many different places, including Boston MA, Denver CO, Las Vegas NV, southern VT, and Dublin IE.

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The Ultimate Self-Guided Venice Walking Tour [UPDATED 2024]

The city of  Venice   is made up of 118 islands, 400 bridges and 150 canals. But you might be surprised to learn it’s a pretty walkable city. The entire island can be explored in one,  albeit long,  day. No one neighbourhood is ever too far away from another. As such, there is a real connection between all the different parts of the island. Venice had only so much land to grow on before spilling into the ocean. Every brick, every stone and every bridge needed to be made with thoughtful consideration. The city’s architecture needed to be a cohesive part of this great puzzle. And walking around, it feels like entering a living art and history museum.

You could take dozens of walking tours around Venice, specializing in different themes or neighbourhoods. But this walking tour is perfect if you have limited time to see the city. Or you just want a good introductory tour to take you around the iconic places which helped form the history and culture of this city.

Walking Tour Details

How long is this walking tour.

This walking tour takes you around some of the most important landmarks around the island. I recommend leaving a whole day for it since it spans almost the entire city. Or you could break the tour into sections to spread over a few days. This tour serves as a great introduction to the various districts. Giving you a glimpse of where you might like to come back and explore more later.

When Should I do this walk?

Monday  is a great day to do this tour. Most museums are closed on Mondays, yet the churches we will visit will remain open. Mondays are also when people have gone back to work, so you’ll get a better idea of what the neighbourhood looks like when all the shops are open. Businesses are bustling, and the cafes serve their daily customers. You can, of course, for this tour any day of the week, but I always recommend Mondays due to the museum’s closures.

Start the tour early in the morning.  The earlier, the better.  I usually wake up before dawn and go to  St. Mark’s Square.  As the sun rises above the city, the square is almost empty , except for the pigeons . There’s nothing like it. Well worth the sacrifice of a little bit of sleep.

When is the Best Time to Visit Venice

The best time to visit Venice is during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall, from April to June and September to November, respectively. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are fewer, allowing you to explore the city without the hustle and bustle of peak tourist season. However, keep in mind that Venice experiences high tides, known as acqua alta, from November to March, which can make certain parts of the city inaccessible.

Venice Tourist Tax

Starting January 1st, 2023, Venice will implement a  Tourist Tax  for anyone staying in the city overnight. This  tassa di soggiorno or tourist tax  will be included in your hotel, B&B and alternative accommodation fee. 

But soon, the city will be implementing a day-visit ticket. This is set to cost anywhere from €3 to €10. Visitors from cruise ships or the mainland must book their tickets to visit Venice in advance. This system has not yet been activated, but once online, day visitors will need to pre-register and select the day on which they plan to visit the city.

This new system is being implemented to help visitors contribute to the protection and safeguarding of Venice. All the money from these taxes goes directly toward improving the quality of public services and museums. As well as maintenance to prevent this historic city from sinking into the ground forever.

Start of the Tour: St. Mark’s Square

The best place to start your tour is   standing in the centre of the  Piazza San Marco  or St. Mark’s Square. Arrive here as early as you can. There is something truly magical about being here as the sun rises on the square. You’ll see the beautiful rose-gold sunlight begin to kiss the cobblestone and bricks around you. The sun seems to bring the square to life as cafe owners take out their colourful chairs and pigeons flock around gawking tourists (but please don’t feed them!)

Standing in the centre of the square, in front of the Basilica, you can turn around 360 degrees and see one spectacular sight on top of another. In this small area, you’ll find the  St Mark’s Basilica , the great  Campanile  (Belltower), the  Procuratie,  the  Piazzetta,   Doge’s Palace ,  Bridge of Sighs  and  Torre dell’ Orologio . There is rarely a time when you’ll visit the square when they aren’t some form of construction or renovation going on. With all these historical sights in one place, something is bound to be falling apart and in need of repair. Try to look past that and don’t let it ruin your experience.

The square is named after the patron saint of Venice,  Saint Mark . In 828, a relic of St. Mark was stolen from  Alexandria  and brought back to Venice by  La Serenissima’s  great naval fleet. The Venetian Doge, awed by the acquisition of this precious relic, adopted Saint Mark as the new patron Saint of Venice (whose honour had previously been given to Saint Theodore).

A city with a saintly relic immediately rose in power and prestige. Relics were the first tourist attraction of the medieval world. Pilgrims would come from all over the world to pray at the churches that preserved these relics. Pilgrims, much like tourists today, needed food and shelter. And therefore, they brought lots of money into the city.

A grand church to house the precious artifact began to be built in 836. Even back then, the church and the nearby Doge’s palace were highlights of the medieval city of Venice. A great square was needed to further showcase the opulence the Doge wanted to project. In 1172, orchards were demolished surrounding this area, and the  Piazza San Marco  was built. It’s been rumoured that upon visiting St. Mark’s square for the first time, Napoleon himself degreed that it was “ the drawing room of Europe .”

The Procuratie

The simplistic yet elegant buildings along the north and south sides of the square are called the  Procuratie.  The Procuratie is most identifiable by the stunning arcade that wraps around this side of the square. The arcade features distinct Byzantine arches that shield visitors from the elements.

The Procuratie once served as the offices of the Venetian Republic, also called  La Serenissima . Today they house the  Correr Museum , the  Museum of the Risorgimento , and the  Archeological Museum . Each one of these is an incredible place to visit. But the  Correr Museum  is my favourite with its collection of art detailing the history of the city of Venice.

The Lion of Venice

Throughout St. Mark’s square, you’ll see various lion sculptures adorning doorways, columns and facades. The official ‘Lion of Venice’ is usually seen with his paw resting upon a bible. And he is not just any lion, but  St. Mark’s  Lion. St. Mark was often referred to as a lion, as he preached the word of the lord so powerfully it almost seemed like a roar. Legend says that when St. Mark was travelling through Europe and arrived in Venice, he was visited by an angel. The angel told him Venice would be where his body would rest for eternity. His remains were originally interred in Alexandra but moved to Venice, where the basilica was built to honour them as the angel had foreseen.

Caffe Florian

Now housed inside one of the old Procuratie is perhaps the most sumptuous cafe in Venice or perhaps Europe itself. Although this cafe is by no means cheap, it’s a splurge that I think is worth it to experience the incredible interiors and history to be found within. The  Caffe Florian  was founded in 1720 and has served patrons like  Charles Dickens  and  Lord Byron . There is a €6 cover charge to even enter the cafe. But along with enjoying the lavish interiors, you’ll also be treated to live music throughout the cafe. Palacial red velvet couches and chairs are spread across the huge cafe, a maze of cozy antechambers. Each room is covered in ornate paintings, large Murano glass mirrors, gold foiled frames and intricate frescos plastered on the ceiling.

To save money, go to the bar and order your food or drinks there. Although you won’t get a seat, the bar menu is vastly cheaper than table service. An espresso at the bar will still run you €5, but again, you’re here for the atmosphere. If you’d rather save your money, you can opt to give this a miss. Instead, grab a coffee on your way toward St. Mark’s square from any local cafe to enjoy while you peruse the sights around you.

The Campanile

Standing guard in the centre of the square is the 323ft tall  Campanile   or Belltower . The low-level buildings throughout Venice are in stark contrast to the towering red brick Campanile. Its little pointed tower pokes out atop the skyline no matter where you end up in Venice. While the original tower was built in 1514, the current one is a reconstruction from 1912 after its collapse in 1902. It’s incredible to imagine that such a tall structure could survive for so long-standing atop the shifting waters below. But it wasn’t actually the water which proved to be the biggest enemy of the tower; it was lightning. Lightning struck the tower multiple times over the years, causing several fires and severe internal damage to the structure.

The Bells of the Campanile

The tall base of the tower is designed with a fluted shaft that reaches up towards the belfry. On each side of the belfry are a series of arched windows looking out over the square. Inside the belfry are five huge bells. Each one was used to call the people of Venice to attention. The bells have their own distinctive name and special significance. The Renghiera bell announced executions. The Mezza Terza would declare that a session of the Senate was taking place. The Nona sounded the midday hour. The Trottiera was used to assemble the Maggiore Consiglio and the Marangoni, the largest of the bells, rang to mark the beginning and end of the working day. Before anyone even had watches to tell time or Twitter to announce the day’s news, these bells were all the public had to get collective, daily information.

Above the arches of the belfry is another level of brickwork decorated with various sculptures on either side. On one farside, you’ll see the Lion of St. Mark and on the other, the female representation of Venice, in the shape of the Lady Justice. The golden weathervane which crowns the tower is sculptured into the angel Gabriel. He stands tall, reaching out toward the citizens below.

Torre Dell’Orologio

Turn to the square’s northeast corner, and look up at the bright blue and gold details decorating the fantastical Torre Dell’Orologio . In the morning light, the sun glints off the golden dials. The clock was built in the 15th century when the possession of a mechanical clock symbolized the wealth and power of a city. The clock was positioned facing out towards the water so that any foreign ships could see the time from the canals as they passed through. With a spyglass, of course, their eyesight wasn’t that good.

Atop the tower containing the clock, you can see two small bronze figures who carry large hammers in their hand. These figures move upon the hour to strike the bell, causing the bells to ring. One of the figures is a young man, and the other is an old man, symbolizing the passage of time. Once more, we see the image of the  Lion of Venice  above the clock, set against a blue sky of golden stars. Below the lion is the figure of the Virgin Mary with the baby Jesus wrapped in her arms. On either side of her are two blue panels with the time represented in roman numerals on the left. And on the right in Arabic numerals, as was the tradition during the Byzantine era.

The Clock Face

The most impressive feature of the clock are the blue and gold sculptural engravings set within the numerals. Each one was fantastically carved to represent the signs of the zodiac. The central dial, emblazed with the sun’s image, revolves around the zodiac signs. But rather than showing the time, the sundial marks the date. The smallest dial, closest to the central, holds a tiny orb representing the phase of the moon that changes throughout the year.

St Mark’s Basilica

St. Mark’s Basilica  is one of the most precious treasures from the Byzantine period. Preserved in amber, there are so many aspects of history, art, culture and faith from that era. The most significant elements of the church’s design are the mighty, tiled onion domes that glitter against the sea-blue sky. The bulb-shaped domes with their golden finials lanterns give the church that middle eastern appearance that defined Byzantine art and architecture.

Exterior Design of St. Mark’s

The exterior of St. Mark’s Basilica can be studied by looking at its three distinctive areas; the lower level, upper level, and domes. The lower-level mosaics portray scenes from the life of Saint Mark, for whom the church derives its name. In the central arch where the enormous doorway is located, there is the largest mosaic, which depicts the Last Judgment. The original mosaic would have been made in the 13th century, but this current incarnation is from the 19th century after much-needed restorations. The portals that lead into the church are held up by marble columns in a plethora of colours and patterns. Each one is set inwards, towards the doorway, creating a foreshortening perspective. Giving the viewer the effect of being pulled into the church.

On either side of the central portal, the mosaics depict the life of St. Mark. The mosaic on the left is the only surviving piece from the 13th century. Above these central portals, we can study the arched lunettes. These mosaics depict the life of Christ.

The Balcony

The upper-level balcony is home to four important bronze horses. These are the  Horses of Saint Mark-Lysippos . Originally stolen from Constantinople in 1252. The ones outside the church today are replicas of the original sculptures, as these suffered terribly from the elements. They were brought inside the church museum to ensure they could be preserved for years. The bronze horses date all the way back to classical antiquity. It is rumoured that perhaps they were once a part of the  Arch of Trajan  in  Rome . Positioned pulling an emperor’s chariot. But these horses were one of the many trophies collected during the Crusades, which is how they journeyed to Venice.

Ogee Arches

Arching behind the golden horses and above the second-floor lunettes are a series of ogee arches. Ogee arches are a type of arch with an S-shaped curve consisting of two arcs that meet at a point. Not only do these designs add an aesthetically pleasing element to the building, but they also serve a functional purpose by providing additional support for the structure. Ogee arches have a rich history in architecture and can be traced back to various ancient civilizations, including the Romans and the Greeks. However, the use of ogee arches in Islamic architecture during the 12th and 13th centuries is where they gained prominence and influenced such structures as the basilica we see today. 

Set within the central arch is the gilded and winged lion of Venice. Standing brightly against the blue-tiled sky and golden stars. Saint Mark and his choir of six angels decorated the top of the facade, looking down on the throngs of visitors below. 

Admission & Tickets to St. Mark’s Basilica

If you want to go inside the Basilica, be warned that the queue can get very long. And you need to book your tickets in advance and select the exact arrival time. But even with these timed tickets, you will still need to wait in line. Reserved timed tickets to cost  €20.50  and include an audio guide. There is also an option to purchase a skip-the-line ticket, but this will cost €39. Free cancellation is   included in your ticket, which must be done 24 hours in advance for a full refund. I would choose the earliest reservation time to ensure you are the first in the door, leaving the rest of your day open.

No large bags or backpacks are allowed inside the basilica. If you have one, leave it at the Ateneo San Basso in the Piazzetta dei Leoncini (at the north facade to the left of the main entrance.) Be sure to do this before you get in line as you don’t want to be turned away and have to line up again. Remember that the basilica requires guests to adhere to their  dress code.  No bare shoulders or shorts, and men should wear shirts. 

Interior of St. Mark’s Basilica

Upon entering the church, you’ll first notice the overwhelming amount of golden mosaics covering everything from the floors to the ceiling of the building. There are over 85,000 square feet of mosaics in St. Mark’s Basilica. The light reflects off the surface of the glass, and depending on the time of the day, the light can change the effect and the appearance of the interior. There was such a large amount of gold used in the church’s construction that the residents of Venice began to call it the  Chizea d’Oro  or  the Gold Church .

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Because the Basilica was built during the Byzantine age, architectural methods weren’t as advanced as they are now. You’ll notice thick walls, hundreds of columns and the heavy use of marble, which were used as rudimentary supports. They needed to use the strongest of materials to help keep the multi-domed ceiling from caving in.

Inside the church are the treasures of the fourth crusade on the holy land. During the 4th century, Venice deemed itself the holiest place on earth. And therefore, all the treasures crusading armies found were brought to Venice. One such treasure was the  Pala d’Oro . The Pala d’Oro is the frame enclosing the high altar inside the church. It is decorated with panels featuring 1,300 pearls, 300 emeralds, 300 sapphires, 400 garnets, 100 amethysts, rubies, and topazes. A glittering masterpiece.

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Porta Della Carta

When you exit the church, be sure to take a moment to study the  Porta della Carta  on the south side of the church. In 1442, the ceremonial entrance was built to connect the basilica to the  Doge’s Palace . The doorway is dripping in gothic ornamentation, with two tall, thin pinnacles flanking either side of the statue of the  Doge Francesco Foscari.  The statue of the Doge is seen kneeling before the Lion of Saint Mark. Below each pinnacle, we can also spot various statues representing the cardinal virtues.  

Doge’s Palace

A  Venetian Doge  is something that many of you may not have heard of before. A Doge is pretty much like an English Duke; who served as the leader of the Republic of Venice from 726 to 1797. The Doge would rule over Venice from his seat of power inside the incredible  Doge’s Palace . Today the building serves as a public  museum .

The building itself is a wonder to behold. Despite the enormity of the upper structure, it looks almost weightless as it is supported by these delicate pink Verona marble columns. The columns are decorated with a lacy pattern, making them look even more fragile. The top of the building is adorned with spiked merlons that look like meringue frosting atop this architectural cake.

Walk through the arcade under the Doge’s Palace and study the individual capitals atop the exterior columns. Each one features a different set of sculptures with various animals, vegetal designs and more!

Piazzetta 

Past the Basilica, walk south towards the water, where you can find the Piazzetta . The Piazzetta is the smaller square to the south of the main square. In the middle of the square are two large two columns made of red marble. These two columns were where death sentences were announced during the medieval ages.

At the top of the columns are two statues. Each depicts one of the patron saints of Venice, St. Mark and St. Theodore , on the left and right, respectively, if you’re facing the water. St. Mark is depicted as the winged lion of Venice, and St. Theodore can be seen standing atop, of all things, a crocodile . In his hand, he holds a spear which we can assume he used to slay the giant crocodile. Saint Theodore is commonly known for slaying a dragon, not a crocodile. But perhaps the Venetian artists of the time had little knowledge of what a real dragon looked like, so instead, they carved the next best thing, which I guess was a crocodile. Makes sense when you think about it!

The Bridge of Sighs

Walk around the Doge’s Palace until you turn to face the  Bridge of Sighs . The bridge of sighs was created to join the interrogation rooms of the Doge’s Palace to the prison across the canal. If you were found guilty by the Serenissima, you were sent to prison, but upon crossing the bridge, you were allowed to look out at Venice one last time. Two small, square windows on the bridge allowed prisoners this one moment of reflection before facing their possible lifetime of imprisonment. The windows on the bridge are covered in tightly knit wrought iron bars, so no one could make an escape.

Calle de Fabbri

Head back to the area in front of the Basilica, and walk north along the  Calle de Fabbri , crossing over the Ponte dei Dai .  Calle  is the Italian word for a narrow street. Like many streets in Venice, this one is named after the occupation of the people who worked in this area.  Fabbri  means  locksmith , and it was along his street where you’d once have found the city’s locksmiths at work. Head northwest on Calle dei Fabbri and turn left onto Calle S. Gallo until you reach the Ponte Tron .

Due to the proximity to St. Mark’s square, this bridge is often pretty crowded. But its old stone design and views out to the gondola-covered canals aren’t anything to whizz past. If you’re lucky enough to be here when it’s quiet, this is one of the more romantic spots in the city. Even on busy days, I love just standing here just watching the gondola traffic. Sometimes dozens of gondolas get stuck in this narrow canal. See, even Venice has traffic jams!

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Pont dei Fuseri

Continue southwest on Calle Tron, turning right onto Calle Frezzaria as it curves and becomes Calle Barcaroli. Make a right north onto Ramo dei Fuseri to the bridge Ponte Dei Fuseri. There are 400 bridges in Venice which cross 150 canals! Before Venice’s bridges were built, these little islands all acted as their own private communities. These communities needed to be self-serving with their own churches, markets, shops, and micro-culture. Even today, you can still make out the borders of these various micro-neighbourhoods as you cross from one bridge to another. As you reach the Pont dei Fusari , you are finally starting to get away from the tourist crowds, and the real Venice starts to open up for you. 

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Continue along Calle dei Fuseri and turn left onto Calle de la Vida o de le Locande. Then, turn left onto Scala Contarini del Bovolo, where you’ll find the towering Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo.

Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo

This brick Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo has become an iconic viewpoint in Venice. The Palazzo’s incredible, honeycomb-like spiral staircase, with a fantastic balcony at the top, provides one of the most amazing views across the city and over St. Mark’s square. The staircase is called the  “Scala Contarini del Bovolo ” or “the snail.”

Built in the 15th century for the wealthy  Contarini family , the house became notable for its unique outer staircase. In 1952  Orson Welles  also fell in love with the house. He even featured it in his film adaptation of  Shakespeare’s   Othello . The Palazzo was closed for many years, but in 2016 it opened its doors to the public. You can climb the stairs to the top for three euros and get a snap of the skyline.

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Corte Teatro & Teatro Goldoni

Head back to the Calle de la Vida o de le Locande and walk west towards the Calle de la Vida o de le Locande/Campo Manin. Turn right onto Rio Terrà S. Paternian, then make another left onto Calle Minelli. Walk along Minelli until you reach the Corte Teatro. Walking along the Corte Teatro until you come to the square at the end of the street.

This dreamy square, with a lovely nearby cafe, is surrounded by red and yellow-painted buildings. But dominating the square is also a HUGE boring grey wall.  Why are we looking at a large grey wall , you ask? Well, this is the back entrance to the  Teatro Goldoni .  But Why are we looking at the back, not the front?  Well, the front is even less interesting if you can believe it. But the history of this building is such an important part of Venice’s past that it’s worth stopping here for the story!

During the 17th century, trade had begun to twindle in Venice, with other European ports being able to accept larger ships than Venice. Rich families who had made their money in trade needed to suddenly find other means of earning funds. In the 17th century, Opera was quickly becoming the most popular activity for the aristocrats to indulge in. But at the time, it was only performed in private courts. Seeing an opportunity here, rich Venetian families began to invest in building theatres that could bring Opera and music to the public.

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Teatro Vendramin

Suddenly, theatres began to pop up all over Venice, each vying for the most popular singers to draw in the biggest audience. The  Teatro Vendramin  was the original name of the first theatre, which stood here in 1622. It was built by the illustrious  Vendramin family . The theatre was renovated in 1720 and named after the infamous Venetian actor  Carlo Goldoni .

But the renovation of 1720 destroyed all of the original, elaborate Renaissance architecture, and we were left with the boring interior and exterior design you can see today. Luckily, some intelligent historians preserved the archives before the renovation. This included a copy of every play, the list of previous actors and, most importantly, the original architectural drawings was saved as well.

The theatre was kept in the same family for years. And when it came time to restore it in the 19th century, architects could discover precisely what the original theatre looked like inside and restore its interior to its former beauty. Sadly, we are still waiting for the exterior to get the same treatment. Today, the theatre is used by the  Teatro Stabile del Veneto  to put on modern productions and musical performances.

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The Grand Canal

Continue walking north along the  Corte Theatro , through an almost impossibly narrow alley, until you emerge out into the bright light of the  Grand Canal  along the  Riva del Carbon . As this is the first time we are really faced with the view of the Grand Canal, we should talk a little bit about this ever-so-important waterway. The  Venetian Grand Canal  splits the city of Venice in two. 

The original waterway was much narrower and was a branch of the river  Brenta . Ancient Venetian fishermen were once the only ones who lived along its shores in simple stilt houses. Stilt houses ensured the rising tides didn’t wash their houses away.

History of the Grand Canal

It wasn’t until the 9th century, when the Doge moved his palace into the more protected area of what would become St Mark’s square, that the canal was widened. A broader canal was needed to make room for the enormous ships which were brought in and used to bring building materials for the grand palace. The canal soon became less of a fishing spot and more like a luxurious main street, but one made of water. Wealthy families began buying cheap property and building huge manors along the now  Grand  Canal.

The grand canal was now the main entryway into the city, and the Venetian Republic wanted every building lining it to demonstrate the city’s power, wealth and artistic sensibilities. Like a parade of the best architecture Europe had to offer. This huge canal is now flanked by 170 illustrious buildings. Some dating back to as early as the 13th century.

Palazzo Bembo

Turn right and walk along with the  Riva del Carbon  until you reach a stone bridge. Stop just before the bridge to admire the red building to your right. This is the  Palazzo Bembo . This unbelievable building was owned by the Bembo family and was built in the 15th century! Obviously, there has been many renovations and restorations over time, but the original structure shockingly remains much unchanged.

The design of the building encompasses much of what traditional Venetian architecture looked like in the 15th century. The Byzantine influence was still going strong! And you can spot various of their traditional elements fused together here in the polyforms  which cover the facade. A  polyform  is a multi-light window used on the upper floors to bring light into the structure by using wider openings. 

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Pietro Bembo  was born in Venice in 1470 and built the Palazzo Bembo as his lavish residence. Pietro Bembo was one of the most influential Venetian scholars and writers who helped develop the Tuscan language. He also spent much of his life creating and promoting  a madrigal , a secular form of music developed during the Renaissance. He believed that music should be for more than just religious devotion. That music could be used to express everyday human emotion. That seems obvious to us now, but at the time, music was mainly composed for the church. And the subject matter was  exclusively  religious. We have Pietro Bembo to thank, in a small part, for why we have pop and rock music today!

Rialto Bridge

Continue along with the Riva del Carbon as it turns into the  Riva del Ferro , walking along the edge of the Grand Canal. Emerging from the last arcade, you’ll be greeted almost immediately by the sight of the bright white stones of the  Rialto bridge . The Rialto Bridge is the most famous of Venice’s canal bridges. It is also the oldest of the four major bridges connecting the various districts and neighbourhoods. The original bridge built here in 1173 was first made of wood. It went by the name  Ponte Della Moneta , which means “ money bridge .” The name reflected the industry of the area. This was where the largest mint in Venice once stood. People would flood into their area and cross the bridge at all hours of the day to deposit and take out their cash!

The old wooden bridge was split down the center and could be raised on either side to allow tall ships to enter these narrow canals. This was of the utmost importance, especially when the  Rialto Market  opened, as boats would come in mass to deliver fresh fruits, vegetables and fish to the centre of Venice. But as time passed, the old wooden bridge wasn’t up to snuff. After years and years of wear, riots, fires and crowds, eventually, it collapsed.

New Rialto Bridge

The new Rialto bridge design was completed in 1551. The architect who designed it did away with the raised wooden design and favoured stone as it was more durable and could last the test of time. Since the stone bridge couldn’t be raised, he needed to ensure that it was tall enough at its peak to accommodate the galley ships that needed to pass through. The result was this grand arched design that has such a theatrical quality to it.

Atop the stone bridge are a series of covered porticos which contain shops on either side. The addition of shops allowed the bridge to earn rent on the space. The money from this goes towards the maintenance of the bridge. A large arch, like the crown, is set in the center of the porticos atop this stunning structure.

Avoiding the Tourist Traps

Unfortunately, the shops along the bridge are somewhat of a tourist trap, selling tacky souvenirs along the entire walkway. But, if you look at it from afar, you can ignore the tourist tat and focus only on the gorgeous silhouette it forms about the teal waters of the canal.

If you’re looking for a spot to sit to enjoy the view, there are these two little nooks on the bottom of the bridge where you can sit beside the water. This is one of the most amazing places to watch boats and gondolas float by, with stacks of fruits and vegetables coming into the market as the midday sun casts its bright rays down on the city. Once you’ve taken in all, there is to see below, walk up the bridge and make sure to stop in the centre to get that iconic view across Venice and the Grand Canal.

Chiesa di San Giacomo di Rialto

Crossing the bridge and heading to the island on the other side, you’ll walk through the  Campo de San Giacomo di Rialto . This unassuming square is dominated by a rather small, strange-looking church. This is the  Chiesa di San Giacomo di Rialto , supposedly the oldest church in Venice, consecrated in 421! The most unique aspect of this church is the huge clock set into its 15th-century facade.

This area of Venice, known as  San Silvestro , was where all the wealthy bankers of the city lived. The bankers who lived here funded the church’s renovation, and while construction went on, they added a large clock and bell tower to its design. Being able to tell the time was of the utmost importance for traders and bankers. While clockfaces aren’t that uncommon on buildings around Venice, this one is absurdly large. Those bankers really wanted the most bang for their buck! It’s also interesting to note that the hours aren’t positioned as they are on modern-day clocks. Whereas most clocks now only have 12 number positions, this one displays all 24. Ironically enough, this clock is a notoriously bad timekeeper. So don’t be fooled if you think you’ve lost an hour of your life somewhere in the streets of Venice. 

Venetian Street Names

As we make our way toward the Mercado di Rialto, we walk along the  Ruga Degli Oresi.  Like many streets in Venice, the  Ruga Degli Oresi  gets its name from the professions or trades which once were active in the area.  Orsi  means  goldsmith , as there was once a large faction of gold and jewellery traders working here. Many other notable streets in Venice have the same kind of naming convention. There is the  Calle de la Malvasia,  where you’d find the winemakers.

The  Campiello del Remer  for the rowboats, the  Calle de Forni,  which was where you’d find the bakers, the  Botteri  for the coppers,  Calle de Magazine  for the grocery shops and even the C alle de Fiubera  for the buckle makers! This would have made finding what you were looking to buy so simple! No need for yellow pages or even google! Find the street with the corresponding name, and you’re in the right spot.

Mercado di Rialto

Now that you’ve been introduced to the city’s history, it’s time to meet the people of Venice. And there is no better place to get a peek into the real lives of its residents than to head to the  Rialto Market ! The  Rialto Market  is one of the last remaining fresh food markets in the city and, as such, is a bustling place for locals to come and buy their food. Unlike in North America, where we shop for a week’s worth of food at a large chain grocery store, Italians buy only what they need for that day. And repeat the process every day of the week. While this might sound exhausting, it means fresh food every day and the chance to make lasting relationships with the vendors you buy your food from. Something I dearly long for and admire greatly when visiting cities like Venice.

History of the Rialto Market

But the Rialto Market is much more than just a place to get some of the best food in the city! It is also a place of great historical value. Of all the rich bankers and traders who lived in the region, the most famous were the  Rivoalto  family. The Rivoalto traders were one of the first families to come into the lagoon to set up a trading post. They picked this location because it was well situated along the bend of the canal. This meant it was located on higher ground and therefore was spared from some floodings that other parts of the island suffered through. 

The first known market opened here in 1097. Because the family didn’t have to constantly rebuild their homes, they were in a much better financial position than many other families in the area. There wasn’t home insurance to help you back then. The Rivoaltos grew in prominence and wealth and soon controlled so much of the neighbourhood that the area was named after them.

Layout of the Market

The outdoor portion of the market is where you’ll find seasonal fruits and vegetables under brightly coloured awnings. If you’re looking for a snack, there is nothing more refreshing than a basket of fresh fruit!

Opposite the green awning of the outdoor market is the neo-gothic fish hall, or  Pescheria,  built in the early 1900s. Outside the red brick building, there is still a marble plaque which you should study before heading inside. This plaque denotes the different types of fish allowed to be legally sold here when the marketplace was first built. Certain varieties of fish were being overcaught, and laws were set in place to ensure there was a limit on how many a household could buy to prevent their depopulation.

The Fish Hall

The fish hall is a rustic building with dramatic arches surrounding the exterior. Towering columns continue throughout the interior, making a simple stone building feel rich and illustrious. Fresh fish has long been one of the most important resources in Venice. All they have to do is throw out their rod, and the freshest fish comes jumping out of the sea and pouring into the market. It can’t get much more local than that!

The marketplace was facing the chance of being shut down a few years ago due to a possible canal expansion for cruise ships. Thankfully, the citizens convinced the city to put a stop to this, and the market was saved. But as more and more people shop at larger grocery stores on the island, markets like this always face the chance of being closed. So if you visit, buy at least a little something to show your support. We bought some fresh raspberries and cherries, and they were absolutely delicious. The perfect on-the-go treat!

Ca’ d’Oro

Before heading to our next stop, walk to the corner of the Fondamenta de le Prigioni, across from the Campo de la Pescaria. From here, you have a perfect view across the Canal towards the  Ca’ d’Oro . The  Ca’ d’Oro of Palazzo Santa Sofia  was an illustrious palace built along the Grand Canal for the Contarini family in 1428. The Contarini family was responsible for rearing eight different Doges and was one of the wealthiest families in Venice.

To show off their wealth and power, they wanted to create a palace that mirrored the greatness of the  Doge’s Palace  in St. Mark’s square.  Ca’ d’Oro  means the  golden house . When the building was first constructed, the entire facade was covered in gilt polychrome, giving the effect of being made entirely of gold!

Venetian Gothic

The palace’s architecture is one of the best-surviving examples of Venetian Gothic architecture . The iconic elements characteristic of this style are gallery windows with heavy tracery details featuring quatrefoil designs and byzantine-inspired decorations. Ogee arches span the balcony’s facade, each capped with a wonderfully carved relief ornament.

Inside, the lavish details continue. Even the flooring was made into a work of art. Different coloured stones were used to create fanciful patterns. Since 1927, the building has served as the  Galleria Giorgio Franchetti ,  which features a wonderful collection of 15th-century art.

Riding a Traghetto

Instead of backtracking over the Rialto bridge to get to  Cannaregio  island (our next stop), we’re going to opt for a very Venetian method of crossing the canal, a  Traghetto ! You can find the Traghetto ferry dock along the Fondamenta de le Prigioni , across from the Campo de la Pescaria . Walk over to the water’s edge, where you’ll see a small dock and what appears to be a series of black gondolas. “ But gondolas are so expensive! ” you say. And rightly so, they are. But these are not gondolas; they are  traghetti . A  traghetto  (or  traghetti  if you’re referring to them as plural) means  ferry  in Italian. These little ferry boats take passengers across the Grand Canal when there are no nearby bridges.

This is essentially how many Venetians would have made these crossings long ago. A trip on a traghetto costs €2, which might seem a bit pricey for a quick journey, but they save you a ton of time. Plus, it gives you a short but sweet experience on a gondola-type boat. Sure, you might have to share it with a group but it’s the same design, just less romantic. The trip across the water provides a beautiful view of the Ca’ d’Oro from afar, so you can better study all of it in all its glory before getting up close and personal. The Traghetto will let you off at the  Santa Sofia  in the neighbourhood of Cannaregio.

This area of the island is called  Cannaregio . Cannaregio is home to the old  Jewish Quarter  and is where most of Venice’s permanent residents live. This means that you’ll see things more than just tourist attractions. Places like schools, corner stores, and traditional Venetian houses aren’t sprawling palazzos. If you’re looking for somewhere to stay in Venice, Cannaregio is my favourite spot, as it feels like the community’s beating heart.

Ponte Chiodo

We are going to set off into Cannaregio via the Strada Nova. The Strada Nova a wide pedestrian street lined with shops and cafes. Turn right from the Strada Nova onto Fondamenta S. Felice. This is such a picturesque street and peaceful canal. As you look down along the canal, you can see four different bridges all along one short stretch of water. The most interesting of these bridges is towards the end of the street, called the  Ponte Chiodo.  The Ponte Chiodo dates back to the fifteenth century and is one of the last two bridges that doesn’t have any balustrades to prevent people from falling right into the canal! The city built another bridge just next to it with proper railings but kept the old one as a memory of the past. 

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Scuola Grande della Misericordia

We continue west into Cannaregio across the  Ponte della Misericordia  to the first of two old schools we will look at. The  Scuola Grande della Misericordia  dominates the northern side of the sestiere Cannaregio. The  Scuola Grande della Misericordia  (New School of Mercy) was one of seven  Scuole Grandi  in Venice. These “Scuole Grandi” or “Great Schools” were religious and charitable organizations. Developed in the 13th century, they were the most important social institutions in the Serenissima Republic of Venice. The secular institutions played a crucial role in the fabric of political and religious life. The  Old  School of Mercy was built in 1308 in the typical gothic style (we will see this building at the next stop.) 

But as the organization grew in size, a new building was commissioned to house the growing organization.  Jacopo Sansovino  was brought on to build the “Scuola Nuova,” or  New School.  Built in 1532, the imposing quadrangular structure was strongly influenced by Roman classicism. Building work continued over the next fifty years; unfortunately, Sansovino died before the building was completed. Today the building is used as a gallery and events space, but the exterior architecture has been preserved for us to admire.

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Scuola Vecchia della Misericordia 

Head northeast on Sestiere Cannaregio toward  Campo de l’Abazia . In this small square, you can see the old Chiesa dell’Abbazia della Misericordia in one corner and the original  Scuola Vecchia della Misericordia  in the other. The Scuola Vecchia della Misericordia (“Old School of Mercy”) was the first seat of the organization. When they built the new school, this building was sold off to the guild of the silk weavers in 1634.

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Casa del Tintoretto

Continue west along Fondamenta de l’Abazia, across the wooden Ponte dei Muti, then along Corte dei Muti and turn left toward Fondamenta dei Mori. Along this canal-side street is the old Casa del Tintoretto . This crumbling old house bears a small plaque with the bust of a man on the top. This is the  Casa del Tintoretto,  where the artist  Tintoretto  lived from 1574 to 1594. Tintoretto is one of the few artists who lived and worked in Venice but who was also born here . Many artists flocked to Venice during the Renaissance as the art scene exploded, but Tintoretto was the original trendsetter. His great work helped form the  Venetian school of art  and even perhaps the artist style which defined the Renaissance itself.

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Campo dei Mori

Continuing west, you are greeted by the small, peaceful square Campo dei Mori . As you turn into the square, take note of the strange statue on the corner of the Osteria l’Orto dei Mori . This statue looks almost as if it has a beak. Three carvings were made in the 13th century, one in each corner. They represent the three merchant brothers who famously opposed the Republic of Venice. Back then, it was treason to speak up against your government. In reaction to their controversial attitude, these unflattering carvings were made to mark their treason in stone forever. Years later, their bravery in speaking out against injustice is honoured, and the statues are revered. Venetians today are known to hang satirical comments on these statues. Addressing and airing their problems with local politicians.

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Church of Madonna dell’ Orto

Continue north, along the  Campo Dei Mori , and head across the bridge. Here you’ll come face to face with the grand Church of Madonna dell Orto.  Considering this church’s history and beauty, you’d think it would be overrun with tourists. But, since it’s located so far away from the city centre, often you’ll find this square empty and all to yourself!

The church was first constructed in the mid-14th century for the  Humailiati  order. Never heard of them? Not surprising since they were ousted from Italy in 1462. Despite their name  Humiliati , meaning “ humble ,” the pope famously referred to them as  humiliating . He believed them to take part in sacrilegious behaviours, which included gluttony and lust. One of their members even tried to assassinate archbishop  Carlo Borromeo,  whose task was to reform their order. While the order was definitely not the most pious, they were certainly great art lovers, which can be seen in the design and decoration of this great church.

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Church Facade

This church’s facade is one of my favourite pieces of architecture. There are so many tiny details packed into this small space. The current facade dates back to 1460. The sloped sides of the church are lined with a series of twelve niches, where dozens of statues are placed depicting the twelve Apostles. The niches are each framed in bright white columns creating this very visually powerful ribbon effect along the roofline. On either side of the entrance door are two huge quadruple-mullioned windows that allow light to flow into the church’s interior.

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Atop the ornate ogee archway leading into the church is the statue of St. Christopher, the patron saint of travellers. This was the saint the church was initially dedicated to. However, it changed consecration to the Holy Virgin later in the century. On either side of St. Christoper are statues of the Madonna and the Archangel Gabriel. Above St. Christoper, the pointed roof is decorated in small arches and bas-reliefs with geometrical motifs. The large Eastern-style onion-domed bell tower is surrounded by four statues of the Evangelists. And at the very top is a statue of the Redeemer made in white marble.

Church Interior

Enter the church if it’s open, as this church contains some fantastic works of art. As this is the district where Tintoretto lived, this church contains three different pieces from the great artist. Works by Tintoretto in the church include a  Presentation in the Temple ( South aisle, close to the East end),  Adoration of the Golden Calf,   Last Judgement  (both in the apse, either side of the main altar) and the  Four Cardinal Virtues  (in the upper storey of the apse, behind the altar), all from 1562 to 1564. Walk into the apse and find your way to the right Chapel. On the floor is a simple engraved tomb where master Tintoretto is now laid to rest. Happily surrounded by his amazing works of art.

Jewish Quarter

From the Campo della Madonna dell’Orto head southwest along the Fondamenta Madona de l’Orto. Turn left onto Calle Loredan, where you’ll pass over a few little wooden bridges. When you arrive at Ponte del Forno, cross over onto the Calle del Forno. Turn right onto Fondamenta dei Ormesini and walk for a few minutes admiring the many different cafes and restaurants along this street beside the canal. When you spot the gorgeous iron bridge covered in swirling filagree, turn left onto Cl. Ghetto Vecchio into the heart of the Jewish Quarter. Hearing the words  Jewish Ghetto , you might think we are entering an area built during WWII, but this ghetto had nothing to do with the Nazis. This neighbourhood actually area predates WWII by more than 400 years!

History of the Jewish Quarter in Venice

In 1509, a large portion of the Jewish community from Germany fled the mainland and moved to Venice. Venice had agreed to allow these Jewish refugees to live inside a small neighbourhood on the island of Cannaregio. But in that area alone. The area they were segregated inside was no bigger than an acre and contained hundreds of Jewish refugees. The old district had once been the location of the old copper foundries. The word  ghetto  was actually coined in Venice. In Italian, the word  ghetto  or ‘ get’  translates to ‘ foundry’  or ‘ foundries .’ But over time, the word became synonymous with an area where members of a minority group live, as was in the case of the original Jewish ghetto in Venice.

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Although Venice had given them a place to live, that didn’t mean their life was free and easy. Jewish Venetians were forced to make their living only by selling rags and running pawnshops. This was the only type of employment they were allowed to have at the time. The only exception was Jewish doctors and those with skills in the printing press industries. They worked on printing Hebrew texts and keeping their religion and culture alive in the  Ghetto Ebraico or Jewish Ghetto .

Merchant of Venice

In the 16th century, Jewish citizens from Spain fleeing the Spanish inquisition also arrived in the ghetto. These Jewish Spaniards developed the narrative of the “ merchants of Venice .” They were skilled and sought-after traders and merchants. Soon, the Jewish quarter was the centre of foreign trade in Venice. This new industry brought in a substantial amount of money to the Serenissima, allowing them to stay in business despite previous restrictions on this kind of work in the quarter.

Although Venice allowed Jewish people to live and worship in this area, their lives were highly regulated and segregated. As early as the 16th century, Jewish citizens had to wear either yellow hats or yellow badges to distinguish them from Venetian Christians. The ghetto also had a strict curfew which the residents had to follow. Boats filled with members of the Serenissima would circle the canals at night to ensure no one broke curfew. The punishment for doing so was severe. To many residents, this area must have felt more like a prison than an escape from the persecution they had been trying to flee.

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The First Vertical City

Despite these restrictions, the Jewish quarter’s population grew and flourished. More synagogues began to be constructed. But residential development was difficult. Since they were limited to this small island, their only chance for expansion was to go up vertically. The Jewish quarter in Venice was known to be the first real “vertical city.” Even today, walking around this part of Cannaerigio, you’ll see how much taller these buildings are compared to the rest of the city.

In 1797, Napoleon’s entry into Venice freed the Jewish people from their ghetto. Napoleon abolished these divisions. Jewish Venetians were finally free to buy property throughout the rest of the city. Since they were now some of the wealthiest citizens, they were able to buy up some of the most beautiful palazzos on the Grand Canal. Over the years, these Jewish citizens became as much a part of Venice as any other native Italian. Perhaps because they were such an important part of the fabric of Venetian society, their betrayal at the hands of Italian fascists later in WWII was so devastating. And almost led to their extinction.

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World War II in Venice

Jewish people throughout Europe were rounded up and sent to concentration camps during WWII. But, thanks to the sacrifice of  Giuseppe Jona , head of the Jewish Community in Venice, a large portion of Jewish Venetians managed to escape. When the Nazis demanded Jona make a list of Jewish people living in Venice, he agreed but used the time to warn his community. On the day he was told to deliver the list, he burnt the papers and took his own life, fearing he would be murdered for his actions. The Nazis were only able to find 243 Jewish Venetians who were deported. Only eight of them returned home.

Before WWII, Venice had a Jewish population of around 150,000. After the war, little more than 1,200 people returned to their homes. On one side of the Ghetto Nuovo square is a large bronze monument in honour of the victims of the Nazis. It was created in 1980 by artist  Arbit Blata . The seven bronze panels depict several horrific tragedies Jewish people suffered during WWII. Today there are merely 450 Jewish Venetians left in Cannaregio. But they work hard to preserve and share their history with locals and visitors alike.

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Scuola Spagnola

The  Scuola Spagnola , or  Great Spanish Synagogue , is one of the last remaining synagogues in modern Venice. The synagogue was built in 1555, founded by Jewish Venetians who had been expelled from the Iberian peninsula. The great synagogue was built by one of Venice’s most famous architects,  Baldassare Longhena . He is also notable for designing other iconic Venetian buildings, such as; the church of the  Madonna Della Salute, Ca’ Pesaro  and  Ca’ Rezzonico . 

But the exterior of the synagogue isn’t anything like these other buildings. The facade is rather austere, with a plain, four-story cream-coloured finish. But it wasn’t for lack of inspiration, funding or skill that the exterior was so lacklustre. It was a condition of the Venetian state government in the 16th century. Although Jewish citizens were allowed to build their own places of worship, they needed to be concealed within a building that gave no appearance of being a house of worship. Essentially hiding their religion from the eyes of Christian Venetians.

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Inscribed upon the arch on the entrance of the building is a piece of script that reads, “ Blessed are they that dwell in Thy House and continue to praise Thee .” On the side of the building, there is also a stone plaque with the names of all the deported Jewish Venetian families who suffered death at the hands of the Nazis. Take a moment to pay respect as you pass by.

How to Visit a Synagogue?

Although tourists can’t enter the synagogue on their own (unless attending a service), I recommend booking a guided tour through the Jewish Museum of Venice if you are interested. They have a great connection with the local community, and you know this way you are supporting the preservation of their history through your contributions.

If you were to peek inside, you would be amazed at what you’d find. Stepping inside is like walking into a fantastical jewel box. Ornate carved wooden balustrade frames the ceiling in a variety of geometric shapes. Lavish red velvet curtains with golden tassels hand in front of the windows. Giant brass chandeliers drip from the ceiling and illuminate the rest of the room with warm candlelight. The highlight of the interior is the magestic sanctuary lamp known by its Hebrew name,  Ner Tamid . The light inside this holy lamp symbolizes God’s eternal presence, which will never be extinguished.

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Panificio Giovanni Volpe

Just down the street from the old Spanish Synagogue is  Panificio Giovanni Volpe , one of Venice’s last remaining kosher bakeries. While visiting the Jewish quarter, it’s a good tourist practice to patronize their businesses. This is such an easy way to ensure their community continues to flourish. In this bakery, they still make many traditional Venetian desserts and also some unique Jewish recipes. Don’t be shy to ask what they recommend! Everything is delicious though.

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Guglie Bridge

To cross onto the next island of  Santa Croce , we need to pass over the great  Guglie Bridge . This crossing was established in 1285 with an early wooden bridge, but the current stone incarnation was built in 1580. The large balustrades which run over either side of the bridge are inlaid with gargoyles that watch over the canal. It is therefore dubbed the “ bridge of spies .”

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Chiesa di San Geremia

Standing in the centre of the  Campo San Geremia  is the church of the same name. The  Church of San Geremia  has stood here since the 13th century, and the old brickwork on the bell tower is some of the only remaining pieces of the original church. The rest of the edifice dates back to 1753.

While the interior lacks any flashy ornamentation, this church is often seen as a pilgrimage sight because it carries the relics of Saint Lucy   inside. Saint Lucy is the patron saint of eye illnesses. The story goes that she had devoted her virginity to God and would not marry. To make herself less desirable, she tore out her own eyes. When she was buried in the family mausoleum, they discovered her eyes had been miraculously restored, a sign of her martydom. She is seen frequently in paintings holding a golden plate with a pair of eyes laid upon it. Many people make a pilgrimage to this sight to pray for their own eye related illnesses.

Pasticceria Dal Mas

You’ll find my favourite bakery on the charming Rio Terà Lista di Spagna street. The  Pasticceria Dal Mas  has some of the best cream-filled pastries in town! Their bright green pistachio cannolis are a dream. There are a few seats inside where you can sit and order an espresso or even an Aperol spritz to enjoy with your food. If you’d rather just stand at the counter and chat, you can also do that; how very Italian of you.

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Scalzi Bridge

You’ll come upon the  Scalzi Bridge  at the end of this street before reaching the train station. The Scalzi Bridge means “ bridge of the barefoot monks ” in Italian. The first bridge to be built here was right beside the old Carmelite order, also known as the “order of the barefoot monks.” But this current incarnation of the bridge is one of the city’s newest, completed in 1934. While the bridge isn’t as remarkable as some others, its modernity allows it to feel light and airy, almost defying the laws of gravity.

Santa Croce

Walking over the bridge, we are moving into the  Santa Croce  district. Santa Croce is where you’ll find the large train station, which brings people in and out of Venice every day. Leading to this neighbourhood being referred to as the city’s “transport hub.” Being located away from the top attractions, you’ll also find that Santa Croce has the least amount of tourists. This may be one of the reasons I find it the most pleasant to walk around. The people you’ll find on the street are locals, and there is an honest air about this neighbourhood.

Crossing over the bridge, walk southwest on the  Fondamenta del Monastero to tread along water’s edge. This area of the Grand Canal is bustling with action. You’ll find more than just gondolas and vaporettos here. Motorboats carrying fruits and vegetables chug up and down the water, and boats piled with wooden beams and other construction equipment jet over to their various destinations.

Giardini Papadopoli

Turn left down  Fondamenta Papadopoli where you’ll quickly see the bright green trees sticking their heads above a brick wall. This is the  Giardino Papadopoli , a beautifully manicured garden where locals Venetians come to get some shade and enjoy a bit of green space. The park spans more than 8,800 square meters and was built in 1834. While Venice has ample squares and waterways, there is surprisingly little greenery and lush parkland. The  Giardino Papadopoli  is Venice’s version of Central Park .

Among the gravel and stone paths are a variety of different trees like cypress, cedar, different fruits, elm, oleander, mulberries, and laurel. If you are even looking for someplace to come to escape the crowds and the noise, this is the oasis you’ve been looking for!

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Campo San Rocco

Walking through the park, exit at the south end, and cross the bridge over to the Calle dei Amai. Walking along the Calle dei Amai (which turns into the Calle de le Sechere) and turn right onto Ramo Cimesin. Ramo Cimesin veers slightly right and becomes Calle Tintoretto, and passes through Campo San Rocco.

Campo San Rocco is a charming square whose centrepiece is the church of San Rocco, an impressive Renaissance structure adorned with intricate marble carvings and frescoes. The surrounding buildings feature colourful facades and elegant balconies, creating a picturesque backdrop for a leisurely stroll or a cup of coffee at one of the outdoor cafes.

Basilica dei Frari

From the Campo San Rocco, walk toward Calle Fianco de la Scuola and continue onto Salizada S. Rocco. Turn left onto Campo dei Frari, where you are immediately struck by the towering  Basilica dei Frari  or  Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari . But most people just call it the “ Frari ” for short. The church is the beating heart of this neighbourhood. In 1231 the  Doge Jacopo Tiepolo  donated this land to the Franciscans. The original church he had built was very small. As the Franciscans rose to power, they demolished it in exchange for a larger, more impressive design that better reflected their status in the city. The current version we see today was built in the 14th century in a high Venetian Gothic style.

Looming over church is the great campanile, the second tallest tower in the city. The bell tower was built in 1396 and somehow still stands today! The unassuming facade might fool you into thinking at first blush this church isn’t very important. But in actuality, it is perhaps one of the most significant churches in the entire city.

Entry into the Church

There is a small fee to enter the church (€ 3,00), but it is more than worth it to gaze upon the interior of this church and the famous works of art found inside.

Many Doges were buried here under the watchful eye of masterful works of art by the painter  Titian . Titian, a Venetian himself, painted the great altarpiece inside the church.  The Assumption of the Virgin  by  Titian  is one of the first things your eye is drawn toward as you enter the church. It sits behind the high altar, lit by the glow of the stained glass windows behind it. This piece is perhaps the best example of Titan’s masterful work. Setting the standard for Venetian art during the Renaissance.

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Titian  died of the plague at 94 years old, and a memorial to his life and death stands inside the great Basilica. The monument is gigantic! Looking like a small structure rather than a statue. A version of his famous painting is carved in relief into the stone. The image of the great master himself sitting in front. On either side of the artist are two figures representing  universal nature  and the  genius of knowledge . The other four figures set in between the large columns represent  Painting, Sculpture, Graphic Art  and  Architecture,  each one being a critical force possessed by Titian’s art.

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Campo Santa Margherita

From the church, head south through the Campo dei Frari. Turn right along Salizada San Rocco and left onto Calle S. Rocco. Cross over the Sestiere Dorsoduro and continue south down Calle S. Pantalon as it passes over the bridge, and the street turns into the Sestiere Dorsoduro. Leading you right in the Campo Santa Margherita.

The Campo Santa Margherita is a huge square in  Dorsoduro District . Surrounding this square are houses that date back to the 14th and 15th centuries. Cafes have a tremendous amount of outdoor space in this large square, so you’ll hear the murmur of people laughing and the clinking of wine glasses at all hours of the day. Lovers lounge on the bright red benches, kissing under the sunlight. If you’re tired, this is a great place to end the tour early if you don’t want to explore the rest of the Dorsoduro District.

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Dorsoduro District

The  Dorsoduro district  is located on the bottom of the Venetian islands. This area borders the Grand Canal and the Venetian Lagoon, making it a prime spot for traders to live. While it’s not as flashy as the other districts, think of this as a blue-collar neighbourhood. I still find it to be one of the most charming areas in Venice. Dorsoduro lacks the pretensions of the other spots. Since it’s home to Venice’s  Ca’ Foscari University , you’ll also find the new blood of Venetian society, its students, who liven up the streets with modern music, food and entertainment.

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Ponte dei Pugni

Head to the southern end of the Campo Santa Margherita and make a sharp left onto the Rio Terà Canal. Turn right to stay on Rio Terà Canal until you reach the  Ponte dei Pugni . I love the view from this bridge. If you look towards the west, you can see the brick bell tower from the church of  Santa Maria del Carmelo  sticking its head up above the other buildings. 

On either side of the bridge are a pair of footsteps marked onto the stones. This marking reveals a strange practice from the 18th century. Whenever two rival families were feuding, they would come here to battle it out with their fists. Unlike gun duals in the United States which were common to settle violent disputes, Venetians would fight each other with their fists. The first one to fall into the canal off this bridge was deemed the loser.

Cantine del Vino già Schiavi

We are approaching the evening by this time, but it’s not time for just yet dinner. Oh no, first we must have an  aperitif ! And one of the best places to get it in Dorsoduro is  Cantine del Vino già Schiavi . This bar sells  Cicchetti  (small snacks), which include Venetian classics like crostini topped with salt cod and wild garlic, pistachio cream or aioli with flower petals. Grab an Aperol spritz to drink while standing at the bar to feel very much like a local.

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Calle Nuova Sant’Agnese

Head northeast until you reach the  Calle Nuova Sant’Agnese . This narrow street is filled with a variety of different shops. Being so far away from the touristy areas, these stores are known to sell authentic Venetian goods but at  reasonable prices . In addition to the tourist shops, you’ll also find unique boutiques, which are a great way to support local businesses.

Basilica di Santa Maria Della Salute

If you’re still feeling up for it, continue walking through Dorsoduro, eastwards, along the Calle Nuova Sant’Agnese (which turns into Piscina Forner.) Continue onto Calle de la Chiesa and make a slight left onto Fondamenta Venier dai Leon walking along as it becomes Fondamenta Venier dai Leon. Turns left along Dorsoduro Street and follow the street into the Campiello Barbaro. Walk east along the Calle Barbaro as it becomes Calle San Gregorio and veer onto Calle de l’Abazia.

Stepping onto the stone of the Fondamenta Salute, you find yourself standing in front of the stunning white marble church of  Basilica di Santa Maria Della Salute.  Take a moment to both soak in the view of the church but also turn around to look at the great view of Saint Mark’s square across the river. This is where we first started the tour, and it’s amazing to see this spot from another perspective.

The Venetian Plague

In 1630 Venice was being ravaged by the plague. At the time, one of the ways people thought you could stop the plague was by making an offering to God and praying he would send deliverance to the city. So, the Republic of Venice built the church of  Our Lady of Health  as a last resort .  Eventually, the plague period passed, and the city was able to start rebuilding itself. Nearly a third of the population of Venice died during the plague. Those that survived would remember that harrowing experience forever. Since the church was made in honour of stopping the plague, most of the art and symbolism you’ll find throughout the church in some way refers to death or the plague. Making it a very uniquely themed church. 

The church is most notable for its humongous white dome, which dominates the sky. The dome, which almost seems to defy gravity, became a symbol of inspiration for artists in the city. To support the huge dome and weighty marble church,  1 million wooden piles  were used to hold up the floating building.

To finish the evening, walk down south towards the island’s far edge. The stone promenade which flanks the large waterway is called the  Zattere . Zattere in Italian means  rafts . In the 16th century, timber would arrive in the city on large rafts. Timber was not only used to construct the walls of grand palazzos and houses in Venice; it was literally the ground on which the houses were built. Timber was one of the most important imports in the city. It was also used to make gondolas up until the 18th century. Suffice it to say, the city was built around the timber industry, so its importance is not to be ignored. The earliest parts of the Zattere date as far back as 1520. Today the wide promenade is a great place to watch the sunset, reflection down against the mirror like waters of the canals.

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Trattoria San Basilio

If you’re feeling like you would like to dine somewhere close to your accommodation, there are Vaporetto stops all along the  Fondamenta Zattere . But if you’re looking for something special along the water’s edge but away from the touristy hub, you should check out  Trattoria San Basilio .

This down-to-earth restaurant is located inside the corner of one of the older buildings in the Zattere. It barely looks like a restaurant except for the awning and a few tables and chairs out front. But don’t let its modesty fool you; here, you’ll find a relaxing atmosphere, friendly staff, and traditional Venetian cuisine. Their seafood spaghetti with mussels, clams and squid tastes so fresh you’d swear the food jumped right onto your plate straight from the water. Try to get a spot outside to enjoy the sunset or watch as gondolas paddle past into the moonlight.

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Phew, well, that brings us to the end of this tour. Hopefully, if you packed this all into one day, you found things along the way to return to see tomorrow! Let me know which neighbourhood was your favourite or what you’re most looking forward to visiting!

Happy Travels, Adventurers!

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Happy Travels Adventurers!

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12 comments.

My wife and I took this walking tour just last week – June 2022. It was fantastic! We spread it out over two days as we stopped at lots of places to shop, east, and in 2022 there are lots of free art exhibits. Add a night tour of the Palace and the basilica and you will have a great trip!

laura.f.whelan

Thanks for the comment Phil, I’m so happy you and your wife enjoyed yourself on the walking tour. Two days is the perfect leisurely way to spread it out and make your own stops along the way. I’ve never known they had a night tour of the palace and Basilica but I looked it up and it looks incredible! What a special way to spend an evening in Venice!

Hello Laura, thanks so much for putting together these amazing walking tours! I’m heading to Italy next week and would love to do your Venice tour. However, wondering if it is possible to download it into my phone to follow it while I’m in Venice. Do you know if that is possible?

Thanks in advance, Juliana

The Creative Adventurer

Hi Juliana, I’m still working on the downloadable version of this walking tour! But you can always copy and paste the text to you notes app in your phone and download the google map I provided. Google has an offline map option you can download before you leave if you won’t have roaming while you’re in Italy. Hope this helps 🙂

Hi Laura Thank you so much for sharing this wonderful walking tour of Venice. My husband and I are going in April and as the previous commentator wondered if you had managed to complete a downloadable version yet? I am not very techy so not sure I could manage to copy and paste! My thanks in anticipation , Judi

Hi Judy! We finally have the downloadable version of the walking tour available in our store! You can purchase the PDF here to get all the information in this post and more available on your phone, iPad or desktop even when offline!

https://thecreativeadventurer.com/product/self-guided-walking-tour-of-venice-downloadable-pdf/

I hope you have a fantastic time on your vacation to Venice.

All the best, Laura (the Creative Adventurer)

Hi Juliana,

I am going to Venice next year and am so excited to do this walk. The effort and detail you put into this is incredible. What a wonderful person you are to share this. So appreciate. Can’t wait to discover this walk.

Thanks so much Nicole! I hope you have a fantastic time, Venice is spectacular and a true dream of a location.

Amazing, very well done! Anyone that wants to get of feel of venice should read and walk this. You should really make a documentary…..getting to know venice. thank you

Wow! Thanks for the amazing comment Jim!

I purchased the PDF on my computer but trying to figure out how to now open/save it on my phone. There wasn’t a follow up sent to my email with a link or anything. Please let me know how to obtain it, thanks!

Hi Tommy, I just sent you an email but you should receive an email shortly after payment with the link to the download. If you don’t get one shortly just reply to the email I sent and I will email it to you directly.

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Walking Tours in Venice, Italy

Guided tours & shore excursions in venice.

Venice is magical! See the cultural highlights and architectural delights of this mysterious city surrounded by water. Enjoy the historic walking areas, the Jewish Ghetto, the famous Doge’s Palace, and the striking St Mark’s Basilica. Venice may be small in size, but the opportunities it offers are grand! Our Venice walking tours will give you a deep understanding of this extremely popular place. We offer both private tours of Venice, as well as walks in small groups.

• Most Popular
• Hour Glass 3 Hours

Venice: Highlights Tour St Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace

Discover the major highlights of Venice in three hours, led by an expert local guide and including the two must-see sites: Doge’s Palace and Basilica of St. Mark.

Enjoy the benefits of pre-reserved tickets!

• The Most Efficient Way to Explore This Highlight of Venice
• Hour Glass 2 Hours , 3 Hours

Venice: Doge’s Palace Guided Tour with Pre-Reserved Tickets & Optional Gondola Ride

Visit one of the most important sites in Venice with an expert local guide, bypassing long lines with pre-reserved tickets. Learn about both the supreme authority and wealth of the ruling Venetian Doges and the famous Casanova.  Expand your Venice experience with an optional 30-minute gondola ride along the Grand Canal and see the city’s hidden gems and landmarks. Explore Venice best by joining our small group or private tours.

Jewish Ghetto In Venice Tour with Synagogues Tour Option

How do deep-rooted Jewish families feel about their past and future? Commemorate a long, rich history in Venice on this guided walking tour in Venice’s Jewish ghetto, one of the world’s oldest. Choose to complete your experience with the Synagogues tour organized by the Jewish Museum.

• Fresh Option in Venice
• Hour Glass 2 Hours

Venice: Dorsoduro Artistic Hub Guided Tour with Optional Guggenheim Tickets

Join the travelers drawn to Dorsoduro for its rich artistic heritage, charming ambiance, and local character for an authentic and immersive experience in Venice.

Benefit from the expertise of a local guide for a more relaxed and authentic Venetian walking tour compared to the bustling crowds of the main tourist areas. Enhance your experience with  optional Peggy Guggenheim Museum tickets.

• Sells out quickly
• Hour Glass 1 Hours , 1.5 Hours

Venice: St. Mark’s Basilica Guided Tour: (optional)Terrace Access

Delve into a journey through the centuries with a tour of the iconic St. Mark’s Basilica in Venice. Join a small group guided tour with skip-the-line tickets and choose an optional visit to the famous outdoor terraces. See the original horses and visit the museum.

• Private Boat Trip
• Hour Glass 4 Hours

Venice: Murano and Burano guided tour by private boat

Embark on an exclusive journey, to discover Venice’s exquisite islands: Murano and Burano. Experience the captivating wonders of Murano, known as the legendary birthplace of fine glass craftsmanship. Immerse yourself in the vibrant ambiance of Burano, a picturesque fishing village bursting with vivid colors. Accompanied by your personal guide, be captivated by intriguing tales and fascinating insights as you traverse this rich tapestry of beauty and history.

"A Must-Do Tour... This guided tour was AMAZING!! This was recommended to me by a friend who took the tour last summer. We were a small group. Our guide Marita was excellent!! She was so knowledgeable on Doge's Palace and St Mark's Basilica, never reading from notes. She encouraged questions and loved to share her knowledge. After the tour officially ended, she explained to my wife and cousins about the Torre dell'Orologio (clock tower) in the piazza. So fascinating."

"Sandra was very friendly and extremely knowledgeable about our tours of both The Doge’s Palace and the Basilica. She made sure to keep the group together and engaged with everyone as she spoke excellent English. We were provided with audio equipment to hear very clearly, all of which worked perfectly. We thoroughly enjoyed the tours and Sandra made it extra special. Thank you, Sandra. A+ Highly Recommended."

"Fantastic tour of the Jewish Ghetto and Synagogues... This was a wonderful tour! The guide was extremely knowledgeable and did an excellent job explaining the history of the area. We had a small group of only 5 so there were plenty of opportunities for discussion. I highly recommend this tour to everyone interested in learning more about Jewish history in Venice."

"Very efficient and professional. The guide arrived on time and efficiently located everyone. The audio radios allowed us all to hear everything even at a distance. The history was fascinating and impressive. The building is very opulent and of course, historic The guide was knowledgeable, friendly, and professional and did a great job guiding us through a very busy attraction."

"Great Experience! We thoroughly enjoyed our 3-hour tour with Sandra in Venice, from Walks in Europe. Sandra was friendly and very knowledgeable. It brought to life so many historical events and it was a very pleasant experience. Highly recommended." Turn on screen reader support To enable screen reader support, press ⌘+Option+Z To learn about keyboard shortcuts, press ⌘slash

"The tour was wonderful and so informative. The meeting place was easy to find. Small group so it was nice and intimate. Our guide Cristina was excellent in explaining everything to us about the history. She spent more time with us and showed us some highlights not on the tour! Highly recommend, worth it!!!"

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9 best venice tours: st. mark's basilica & more.

Explore one of the world's most beautiful cities on these top tours.

The Best Venice Tours

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Known for its canals, waterways, bridges and other historic attractions , Venice, Italy, offers travelers everything from centuries-old history to unparalleled beauty. Some of the best Venice tours take you to the quietest areas of the city – away from the crowds – to discover Venice's cuisine, wine and culture, while others showcase the city from the water by gondola or kayak. Consulting both traveler opinion and expert input, U.S. News identified the tours below as the best Venice has to offer.

Avventure Bellissime – Venice in 1 Day Tour

Price: Adults from 119 euros (about $129); kids from 104 euros (about $113) Duration: 3 hours

If you're short on time, consider this three-hour tour that hits multiple of Venice's top attractions. You'll enjoy skip-the-line access to St. Mark's Basilica , as well as a two-hour walking tour (capped at 20 participants) passing sights like Doge's Palace , St. Mark's Square , the Bridge of Sighs , the Rialto Bridge and more. The final leg of your tour is reserved for exploring Venice's world-famous waterways on a one-hour boat ride down the Grand Canal . This is a great way to see much of Venice in just one day, according to tourgoers. Travelers also say it's a great value.

Complimentary headphones are included. Tours run Monday to Saturday around 2:30 p.m. Note: Your shoulders, stomachs and knees must be covered to enter St. Mark's Basilica; large bags are prohibited inside as well. Know, too, that St. Mark's Basilica only offers skip-the-line tickets from April to October.

Check prices & availability on:

Venice Free Walking Tour – Campo SS Apostoli Venice Through the Centuries: North

Price: Free Duration: 2.5 hours

This tour could be a great way to start your visit to Venice. According to reviewers, valuable information is shared on the walk, including locals' recommendations of the best restaurants and places to visit, which could serve you well during the rest of your trip. Though each guide takes travelers along a slightly different route, you'll likely see some of the city's top attractions, learn about its centuries-old history and see much of its incredible architecture.

Tours depart daily at 11 a.m. from Campo Santi Apostoli in front of the well and travel to the eastern part of the Cannaregio district and the western part of the Castello district. The company asks you to consider donating what you think the tour is worth at its conclusion. Additionally, you must reserve a spot online in advance (there is a booking fee of 3 euros, or about $3, per participant). The company offers a couple of other sightseeing tours throughout Venice, as well.

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Venice Kids Tours – A Thrilling Secret Journey Into the Doge's Palace

Price: From 90 euros (about $97) per hour, per party Duration: 2 hours

Ideal for families with kids ages 7 to 18, this tour explores Doge's Palace. Guides lead families through some of the hidden corridors and secret passages not open to the general public as they share stories about the building's history. Also on the agenda is the attic prison, the former torture chamber and the armory, among other spots. Reviewers say their kids love the tour and recommend it to other families.

Kids must be at least 6 years old to tour; the company does not recommend the tour for pregnant women, or for those who have mobility problems or are claustrophobic. Trips depart in the morning only and are limited to five people. Venice Kids Tours offers other family-focused activities, such as scavenger hunts, walking tours and boat tours.

City Wonders – Murano & Burano Islands Small Group Tour by Private Boat

Price: Adults from $47; kids from $42 Duration: 5 hours

Explore two of Venice's most beautiful islands on this outing. You'll first journey to Murano by boat to see a glassmaking demonstration followed by time to shop and explore on your own. You'll then cruise to Burano, where you'll observe Italian women crafting lace by hand, visit a lace museum and stroll around the island. Travelers say the tour is educational and are pleased with the informative guides. Others wish they were given more time to explore the islands.

Tours run a few times daily, normally between 9 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. (and vary by season). City Wonders also operates tours of the Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Basilica, among other Venetian hot spots.

Courtesy of Walks of Italy)

Walks of Italy – Exclusive Alone in St. Mark's Basilica After Hours

Price: Adults from $90; kids from $86 Duration: 1.5 hours

This special tour treats you to an inside look at St. Mark's Basilica after it closes its doors to the general public. Guides lead no more than 25 tourgoers inside the basilica, sharing stories of its history as you explore. In addition, you'll visit the crypt, which is not open to the public during normal visiting hours. The crypt is said to house St. Mark's remains, as well as the Pala d'Oro altarpiece, which is adorned with nearly 2,000 gems. Tour-takers say after-hours is a wonderful time to see the cathedral and that guides are passionate and informed.

Tour times depend on the day, but generally depart between 7 and 9:45 p.m. several times a week. The company also offers a secret passages tour of the Doge's Palace, gondola rides and food tours, among other options.

Raphael Tours & Events – Rialto Food Tour in Venice

Price: From $103 Duration: 4 hours

On this tour, you'll explore Rialto by way of your taste buds as your guide takes you to pastry shops, wine bars, restaurants and markets. Along the way, you'll sample meats, cheeses, wines (including sparkling), polenta, olives and more. Travelers say the tour is wonderful and offers plenty to eat. They also appreciate the stories guides share during the adventure.

The tour operates daily, and start times are customizable. Raphael Tours also operates a walking tour of Venice.

Intrepid Urban Adventures – Cicchetti & Wine Tour of Venice

Price: From $107 Duration: 2.5 hours

Support the local economy on this foodie trip that takes you to locally owned and operated businesses to sample Venetian cuisine. During the tour, you'll eat seven cicchetti dishes (think: polenta, seafood and vegetables), drink five glasses of wine and indulge in one dessert. Though you may pass by some big sights like St. Mark's Square, you'll mostly visit less-touristy spots in the Rialto area of the city. Plus, you'll get to ride in a gondola. Travelers praise the tour guides and compliment the food and wine chosen.

Tours are typically offered Monday through Saturday at 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. While this is the company's sole Venice tour, you can tour with Intrepid Urban Adventures in Florence and Rome , too.

Venice Kayak – Premium Day Kayak Tour

Price: From 110 euros (about $119) Duration: 2.5 hours

Kayak your way through the Venetian lagoon on this trip. You'll immerse yourself in a new perspective as you paddle through canals. The company recommends you have a bit of paddling experience. If you don't, you may be able to ride in a double kayak with a more experienced paddler. Tourgoers say this is a wonderful way to see things you won't see on a regular tour and describe it as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Tickets include the use of all equipment, dry bags and shower facilities after your tour. (You may want to bring a change of clothes). Trips run daily at 5p.m. Venice Kayak offers a nighttime tour as well.

ShowMe Venice – The Secret Venice

Price: From $43 Duration: 2 hours

If you want to experience Venice like a true Venetian, travelers advise you to book this tour. You'll learn plenty about Venice's history – especially the Jewish Ghetto – all while exploring the city away from the busy tourist attractions. Tour-takers also appreciate the personal touches guides add to the tours, such as telling stories about their own life in Venice.

Tours are private, so you have your choice of departure times and days. Ticket fees will vary depending on the number of participants in your tour. ShowMe Venice offers a number of other tours both on land and in the canals via a boat.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Venice Hotels
• The Best Hotels in Italy
• The Best Places to Visit in Italy
• The Best Beaches in Italy
• The Best International Travel Insurance

Tags: Tours , Travel , Vacations , Europe Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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12 Best Walking Tours in Venice

• 5 Pinterest

Are you looking for the best walking tours in Venice ? We’ve rounded up some of the city’s top guided experiences to help you get started.

Below you can discover my top picks . These are the best walking tours in Venice for families, those who want to enhance their photography skills and those who want to know more about the mysterious history of the city. Read on to discover other fun walking tours which will bring you to landmarks and/or hidden gems in Venice .

Want to dive straight in? Browse our catalog now!

• walking tours in Venice

1 – Photography Walking Tour with Private Guide

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 57 reviews )

It is a special experience to have a personal guide who is a native Venetian. Vinicio, who was delightful & knowledgeable, not only helped me with photo tips on perspective, light, telling a story, etc., but gave me a real insight into daily life in Venice. It was my 5th visit to this beautiful city, but I saw neighborhoods I had never seen before! Maureen. Viator

See one of Italy’s prettiest cities through the lens on these photography-themed experiences, one of the most romantic things to do in Venice . If you want to capture Venice’s most atmospheric angles on camera, this is the way to do it.

You’ll be accompanied by an expert local photographer, who knows all the top places for those iconic shots. Famous landmarks and secret streets away from the crowds all feature on these unique itineraries.

Ranked among the best walking tours in Venice, these photography excursions are perfect for beginners. Your guide will give you tips on how to bag the best pictures, teaching you about everything from perspective to light.

Summary of the tour:

• Daytime or sunset photography walking tour with a professional photographer
• Visit landmarks (St Mark’s Square, Rialto Markets, Bridge of Sighs, Venice Lagoon, etc.) and hidden backstreets
• Receive tips on lighting and composition
• Kids aged 13 and older welcome
• book this walking tour

The great thing about these tours is that the itineraries can be customized to your interests. So, if there’s somewhere in particular you’d like to photograph, just ask.

These guides are all professional photographers, so this is a perfect way of snapping some enviable vacation photos. Just make sure your batteries are fully charged!

2 – Kid-friendly Sightseeing Walking Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 52 reviews )

Federica was amazing! Great with the kids and she made the 2.5 hour tour so much fun! I would highly recommend this tour when you visit Venice. Thanks!! Alyssa. Viator

Kids aren’t usually fans of walking, but on these private tours, they’ll soon be converted to the idea. Venice walking trips for families focus on the interests and needs of everyone, from young explorers to older adventurers.

Get your children excited about sightseeing, with stops at engaging landmarks like Marco Polo’s House and St. Mark’s Square. There will be plenty of short breaks along the way for stories, photos and questions.

The guide’s commentary is kid-friendly, with interactive activities and games to hold everyone’s interest. This immersive sightseeing experience is fun and educational at the same time.

• Private tour designed for families
• Visit landmarks such as: Campo San Bartolomeo, Marco Polo House, Rialto Bridge and Piazza San Marco
• Kid-friendly commentary, iPad games and interactive activities
• check offer

The kids will get such a lot out of these tours, soon forgetting that they’re not fans of walking. Guides are engaging, making sure their younger audience members are captivated from start to finish.

If you want to see your kids excited about history and culture, these experiences are the way to go.

3 – Ghost and Legends Walking Tour by Night

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 3 reviews )

See a different side of Venice on these spooky after-dark walking tours. Keep a wary eye out – you might not be the only ones roaming the streets.

As you delve down hidden alleys and wander beside moonlit canals, your guide will captivate your imagination with tales of ghosts and ghouls. This is a Venice that few visitors get to experience.

Learn about fearsome sea monsters and rat-infested prison cells while exploring the labyrinthine passages and backwater squares. Secret lovers and legends featuring Marco Polo’s wife all play a part in these mystical evening adventures.

• Guided tour by night
• Ghost stories and legends about Venice
• Stroll through the alleyways of Hidden Venice
• Children of all ages welcome

These unique Venice tours are just the thing if you’ve already ticked off the main attractions by day and want to do something different.

The guides are excellent storytellers, drawing you into the tales and making your spine tingle. Go with a friend if you’re easily spooked!

4 – Guided Walking tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.3/5 ( 1903 reviews )

Discover the highlights of Venice on these locally-led excursions. You’ll wander through the heart of the historic city, taking in many of the iconic sights . The walk begins in St. Mark’s Square where you’ll admire the Doge’s Palace, the Bridge of Sighs and St. Mark’s Basilica .

Heading further into the maze of narrow Venetian streets, you’ll meander alongside canals, passing churches and traditional markets. Pose for photos beside the Rialto Bridge and check out the former home of explorer Marco Polo. A stop at the Basilica di San Giovanni e Paolo is also included.

Perfect for first-time visitors, this tour is both comprehensive and heaps of fun. It’s a great way to tick off the main sights in Venice and get to know your way around.

This popular excursion receives rave reviews and operates with trusted local guides to ensure an enjoyable experience.

5 – Hidden Venice: The Unusual Walking Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.2/5 ( 19 reviews )

Francesco was a fantastic guide with a wealth of knowledge about parts of Venice that you wouldn’t ordinarily see. He had a great sense of humour and gave us many unique photo ops ⭐️. alan. tiqets

These are some of the best walking tours in Venice if you want to get away from the tourist crowds. You’ll discover a different side of the city, one where centuries of stories will be uncovered.

Hidden gems and ancient legends are the order of the day as you head deep into the warren of alleyways and canals. This is where the locals hang out, so you’ll be in good company.

Check out the “Pantheon of Venice” where many doges – or dukes – are buried. Then admire the spiral staircase of the Scala Contarini del Bovolo – it’s a bit of an insider secret.

• book this tour

The multilingual guides help you get the most out of your experience with their wealth of local knowledge and insider anecdotes. You’ll get to explore places away from the beaten tourist trail with plenty of photo-worthy views to enjoy. Feel free to ask your friendly leader as many questions as you like.

6 – Guided Walking Tour with Gondola Ride

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 967 reviews )

Amazing experience, much much cheaper, Gondola ride was fantastic. Venice town tour was great, lot of nice places visited. Very recommend to everyone. Thank you. Natalja. Headout

These guided walks in Venice whisk you off into the city’s atmospheric back streets , before continuing the journey by water. St. Mark’s Square and the Rialto Bridge are the main stops on your stroll. After exploring the historic old town, you’ll head to the canal for the ride of your life.

As you glide along the iconic Grand Canal in your gondola , you’ll feel like royalty. Don’t forget to wave to the people on the bridges! Watch as famous attractions pass you by – highlights include Mozart’s House, the Peggy Guggenheim Collection and Desdemona’s House.

Combining a gondola ride with a walking tour can be a much cheaper way to enjoy a boat trip along the canal. This two-in-one package shows off the best of Venice with all arrangements taken care of by your guide.

The experience represents great value for money, with friendly guides going above and beyond.

7 – Venice in one Day: Grand Canal & St Mark’s Basilica

Rating: ⭐️ 4/5 ( 3326 reviews )

Tour guide was so sweet and accommodated us with a private tour of the city and water taxi trip in and out of the grand canal seeing unique spots not listed in this description. St. Mark basilica was special and very sacred. Tom and Tammy. Viator

These popular Venice walking tours tick off many of the city’s main landmarks , making them some of the best tourist attractions in Venice . You’ll be experiencing Venice from the water as well as on foot.

Stroll along the Grand Canal and enjoy being in the heart of bustling Venetian life. You’ll learn about the significance of St. Mark’s Square and be awed by the golden mosaics inside the famous Basilica.

Continue to the Rialto Bridge for photos before swapping the main drag for the backstreets. Here, you’ll be charmed by the maze of canals and colorful Venetian residences. Finish on a high with a water taxi ride on the Grand Canal.

These combination trips rank among the best walking tours in Venice. Not only will you explore some of the city’s most atmospheric streets, but you’ll also enjoy a ride on the iconic Grand Canal.

Skip-the-line tickets to St. Mark’s Basilica just sweeten the deal. A great choice for your first day in Venice.

8 – Walking Tour + Guided Tour of Doge’s Palace & St. Mark’s Basilica

Rating: ⭐️ 4.3/5 ( 642 reviews )

I loved my experience. I believe my tour guide’s name was Katarina. She was fantastic, very knowledgeable, and made sure the group stayed together so no one was left behind. Ciara. Headout

These comprehensive Venice tours combine the city’s major highlights in one easy experience. Popular with first-time visitors, the trips give a great overview of Venice and its famous attractions.

As you stroll along the narrow streets, stop to admire heritage churches, Gothic palaces and tranquil canals. This is the Venice you’ve been dreaming of!

The tour includes guided visits to the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica . Two iconic landmarks that epitomize the essence of Venice, with Renaissance paintings and Byzantine art stealing the show. You can add on an optional gondola ride to round off the experience.

The guides have in-depth knowledge of their subject matter which makes these some of the best walking tours in Venice. Your leader will regale you with anecdotes about Venice and its famous landmarks.

You’ll come away knowing far more than you’d get out of a guidebook, with a new appreciation for both art and architecture.

Read more: Best city tours in Venice

9 – 3-hour Venice Small-Group Food Tasting Walking Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 1384 reviews )

Highly Recommend this tour! Our guide Sara was amazing. We were able to learn as we are and drank like a local around Venice. The portion sizes were more than enough to keep us all satisfied. I was also impressed with the quality of the food and wine at each of the stops. Even made some new friends along the way! christina. Viator

One of the best ways to get to know a city is through its food, and Venice is no different. The cuisine here is among the most delectable in Italy.

On these fun foodie experiences , you’ll visit eight restaurants, bars and cafés to discover the delicious underbelly of Venice. Your guide knows all the top spots, so you’re in for a treat.

Tuck into fresh seafood, sweet pastries and cicchetti platters – the latter are similar to tapas in Spain. Homemade gelato is the icing on the cake. Finish up with a few glasses of classic wine from the Venetian region.

Avoid the overpriced tourist restaurants and discover authentic Italian cuisine on these Venice walking excursions. The bars here are where the locals go, and they know best!

This is a fabulously convivial experience – sharing cicchetti with your tour mates is a fun way to spend the evening. You’ll soon become firm friends with your guide too.

10 – Private Tour: Venice Half-Day Walking Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 122 reviews )

An amazing experience! Our guide took us to places off the beaten path and told us amazing history of those places. She was very knowledgeable and personable. Would recommend to everyone!. Trent. Viator

These customizable Venice private tours are perfect if you prefer not to go with the flow. You’ll have a say in the itinerary , so you can focus on visiting the places that interest you the most.

Whether you’re into art or architecture, photography or gastronomy, this is your experience to direct. You’ll be able to tick off top sights like the Rialto Fish Market and the Cannaregio district, as well as discover lesser-known gems .

Finish on a high with wine and cicchetti at a traditional bar – it’s a great way to blend in with the locals.

This is a very personal experience, far removed from the group tours that all follow set routes. On these adventures, you’ll be in charge – if there’s somewhere you’re dying to visit, just ask.

If you’re looking for an authentic Venetian tour with an entertaining guide, this is the answer.

11 – Center of Venice: San Marco Free Walking Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.8/5 ( 4228 reviews )

Excellent tour, It was interesting and fun! Jose. Guruwalk

This tour takes you on one of the most popular Venice walking routes and is an excellent choice for your first day in the city. What’s more, the experience is free! This means that there’s no fixed price, you just give the guide a tip at the end.

You’ll be exploring San Marco, stopping at key attractions like the Fenice Opera House and the Contarini del Bovolo Palace. As you wander beside the Grand Canal, watch the gondoliers ferry their guests along the water.

Finish with a flourish in St. Mark’s Square where the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica loom large.

• see price & reviews

These Venice walking excursions are a great introduction to the city and are particularly good for first-time visitors. If you’re keeping an eye on your budget, this is a cost-effective way of exploring. Just remember to take some cash so you can leave a tip at the end.

12 – Murano Island: Glass-blowing demonstration + Walking Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 2 reviews )

Venice is famous for its glass-blowing , and there’s nowhere better to see it in action than on the island of Murano . The canals of this heritage district are lined with colorful houses, which makes it a popular destination for photographers.

See glass working in action during a demonstration at the Murano glass factory. This timeless craft requires concentration and precision – it’s a privilege to watch the glass-blowers at work.

After your factory visit, you’ll enjoy a guided tour through the atmospheric streets , learning about Murano’s history. Transport is by water taxi, with a scenic ride across the Venice Lagoon.

• check this offer

Once you’ve ticked off the popular sights of central Venice, Murano should be your next point of call. These tours are an easy way to visit one of Venice’s most iconic islands. The guides are friendly and knowledgeable – they make sure you get the most out of your experience.

How to book walking tours in Venice?

If you want to book some of the best walking tours in Venice, there are several companies to choose from. You’ll also find plenty of travel sites selling these excursions online.

Prices may vary between websites so be sure to do your homework. Use the handy TourScanner search engine to compare rates, check out offers and read tour reviews.

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Highlights of Venice

This walking tour is a perfect introduction to Venice: “grand” Venice and off the beaten paths, Saint Mark’s Square and Rialto. Perfect to be customized adding a boat tour or other extras. 

The best tours of Venice for …

The Main Sights

The special walk&boat tour of venice view tour, the classic walk&boat tour of venice view tour, highlights of venice view tour.

Learning the History

Doge’s palace & st. mark’s basilica view tour, grand tour view tour, off the beaten paths: dorsoduro district view tour.

Frari & San Rocco view tour

Accademia galleries view tour, a palazzo: ca’ rezzonico view tour, you need the best storyteller.

Local and professional Guides, we can share with you our history, culture, legends, anecdotes, with a contemporary and entertaining point of view. Local, certified, 5-stars rated Guides in TripAdvisor and Google .

Still got questions?

Unqualified guiding is not permitted by the Italian Law. Therefore, when booking a local guide in any Italian city, it is your right to ask for proof that he or she holds a license before closing any deal. 

A car and train bridge links Venice to the mainland, but once you arrive at Tronchetto - Piazzale Roma (the bus and cars terminal) or Railway Station, there are only two ways to travel around Venice: on foot or by boat.

The expression “high water” indicates an unusually high tide in Venice. This phenomenon especially affects the lagoon of Venice and can cause flooding in the cities of Venice and Chioggia.

Throughout the years there are many events and festivals in Venice, including Carnival, Vogalonga, Redentore and many others.

Venice in a Day with St Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace & Gondola Ride

• Make the most of every moment on our Venice in a Day Tour, checking all the can't-miss sights (and a few hidden gems!) off your list in just one day.
• 8:30 AM tour only: Enjoy skip-the-line entry at St. Mark’s Basilica for more time to explore its incredible architecture and art.
• Skip the line at the Doge's Palace, the heart of politics and power in Venice, and uncover centuries of history within its storied walls.
• Relish in an only-in-Venice moment on a gondola ride through the heart of the city, included in the price of your tour.
• Explore Venice in a group of 20 people or fewer, with an expert local tour guide on hand to tell you the stories behind top attractions and hidden palaces alike.

Tour description

Explore the hidden beauty and fascinating history of venice in one day on our small group tour..

Please note: Only the 8:30 AM tour includes entrance to St. Mark's Basilica. The 8:45 AM tour will see the Basilica from the outside. It is not possible to bring large backpacks on the tour.

Your day starts as all great days in Venice do: with a stroll through the quiet back streets and bustling markets of the city. You’ll meet one of our expert local guides and group of 20 guests maximum for an intimate guided stroll.

Starting early, we'll get to the Rialto Bridge before the crowds descend to admire its incredible marble architecture before moving on to the bustling Rialto market. The chefs and nonnas of the city are shopping for the day's freshest ingredients, so there's no better time for a stroll through the stalls. Your guide will introduce you to a few of our more unconventional ingredients and share how (and why) Venetian cuisine differs from the rest of Italy’s. At the market and throughout your Venice in a Day Tour, they’ll give you tips on what and where to eat while you’re in town.

Our tour continues into the atmospheric neighborhoods of the city, across countless bridges and quiet piazzas. Along the way, you’ll see the childhood home of Marco Polo, the Venetian merchant who first spoke of China; duck inside San Giovanni Gristosomo to see paintings by Venetian masters Bellini and Sebastiano del Piombo; and discover how the “Church of Miracles” got its name—plus so much more! We consciously take you away from the beaten track and to our favorite local spots so you get a taste of the real Venice as well as the big name attractions.

Enjoy a gondola ride along the Grand Canal and quieter back canals of Venice.

We couldn’t say we were covering the best of Venice in a day if we didn’t include a gondola ride on our tour. After your walking tour, you’ll meet a local Venetian gondolier and your group will be split into different gondolas (maximum five people per gondola) for a ride along the Grand Canal and into the quieter back canals of the city. Duck under little bridges, admire ornate palaces, and watch the world go by as you sit back and enjoy this quintessential Venetian moment. With independent Venice gondola rides costing around €80/hour, this half-hour ride, included in the price of your tour, is a bargain.

Discover the top two sights of Venice—St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace—on our skip-the-line tours.

We’ll give you a short break after your gondola ride and meet back at St. Mark’s Square for the next part of our adventure. If you book the 8:30 AM tour, you'll skip the line into St. Mark's Basilica as your guide points out the features of this incredible church. If you book the 8:45 AM tour, your guide will pause outside the Basilica to explain how its east-meets-west architecture came about and the shady means by which the relics of St. Mark came to rest here.

Our day doesn’t end there, though. With pre-reserved, skip-the-line tickets to the Doge’s Palace, we’ll walk straight inside. It’s here that you’ll feel the most benefit for having a local tour guide. Home to some of the city’s most impressive artworks and architecture, Palazzo Ducale is so much more than something pretty to look at. Although it certainly is that, it’s also the historic heart of Venice and a repository for the best stories, from Casanova’s prison break to the Duke whose face was dramatically blacked out of every portrait and painting.

With our expert guides on hand to tell you all the juicy details, plus small groups so you can easily ask all the questions you want, your Doge’s Palace tour is guaranteed to be a highlight of your Venice visit.

Please note that this description is an example and your experience may vary depending on the season, day of the week, and group size. Regardless of where your tour goes, you always have an excellent experience.

Sites visited

Verified guest reviews, jun 25, 2024.

We had such an extraordinary experience on our tour in Venice. Our tour guide was Virginia and not only was she extremely knowledgeable but she was also so very kind. We left Venice feeling like we had made a great friend. The gondola ride was also wonderful. We will remember this experience for the rest of our lives. Grazie Mille!

Jun 05, 2024

Our guide, Chiara, was outstanding. I have taken a half dozen Walks tours and they are always exceptional. This one was a very experience and our group of 11 (adults and teens) all enjoyed our guide and the tour. She was so knowledgeable and showed us all the highlights. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to understand the history of Venice and see the key sites. Bravo!!

May 25, 2024

Walks did a fantastic job with this tour - from online registration, pre-tour logistics, the tour and our tour guide. Walks limited the tour to at most 20 people. This was a perfect size. We saw some for groups with 50 people. Our tour guide, Mose, was very knowledgeable and had a good sense of humor.

May 09, 2024

Pamela was great, thank you!

May 08, 2024

Our guide was very knowledgable but the tour of St Marks and thr Doge’s palace were too long.

Know before you book

Similar tours, welcome to venice: walking tour, st mark's basilica & gondola ride, vip doge's palace secret passages tour, legendary venice: st. mark’s basilica with terraces & doge’s palace.

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Which Venice will you discover?

INTRODUCTORY TOURS

These tours are intended for first time visitors who wish to become acquainted with Venice’s main sights and landmarks, gaining an overall picture of its history and modern-day life.

IN DEPTH TOURS

Art, in all forms has been a unique ingredient of Venice’s success. Discover the magnificence of the grand Venetian architects and painters. For the ones that live in the now the contemporary art, contemporary architecture and the truly authentic glass studios where masters are at work.

UNUSUAL TOURS

These tours are intended for visitors who wish to experience areas and sites rarely seen by tourists, in both urban locations and beyond. Take this opportunity to discover truly authentic art studios, furnaces and lagoon islands with us.

Venice is a fragile city, therefore we support sustainable tourism

My name is Hélène Salvadori and I have been an authorized and registered tourist guide of Venice and its heritage since the 2000 after been certified by the Veneto Region. Since 2000 I am a member of Venice Association of Registered Tourist Guides. I am an associate of Venezia Arte, Best Venice Guides, Venice Sustainable Tourism and Ca’ Foscari Alumni.

Why a guide in Venice?

A Guide in Venice means a friend in Venice. A guide in Venice means opening yourself up to lear the secrets of this ancient city from locals who live and breathe the laguna. What does the local mean to us? It means we’re in the know. As residents who live and work in the city we carry with us its complex history and rich traditions…

• Stories from Venice
• Is Venice 1600 years old? The history of Venice is somehow difficult to unravel, as in its written form this was drawn up late and in a fragmentary fashion. It is interesting to notice that the archeological excavation findings do not always chronologically correspond to the written reports. In fact, the remains prove that rich hubs were already settled on various areas of the lagoon. 

Sightseeing and enjoying  Venice  with our  walks  and  tours . Come and let Venice to be yours.

Planning a tour to Italy? Then you can’t miss Venice, a major destination for your tours . Today as yesterday Venice still draws visitors from every where, all of them wishing to experience its elusive dream-like ambience: it remains a city without wheels, built on rafts on wooden piles, located in the middle of a vast lagoon and still looking as it did centuries ago. Part eastern, part western, half land, half sea, Venice fits into no convenient category of place. It is bathed in mystery and wonder through the tales of countless visitors and travellers, each one adding some of his own, trying to seize the city’s indefinable nature. The millenary history of Venice then unfolds before you through an unparalleled variety of centuries-old palaces and their great array of architecture and world class fine art collections.

But how to visit and get the best of it? First you have to fit into the particular texture of the city: join in on your own or as part of a small group or party and walk around unhurriedly through the maze of waterways and alleys. Second, let a professional guide show you around the landmarks, tell you the stories of the past and bring you into the living scenes of the present. A gondola gliding on a canal, a grocery market in full swing, a bar where you’ll sip a glass of wine and taste local food, a workshop to see how expert artisans produce their traditional handcrafts and varied works. This is what you can experience with our Venice Tours; a city bustling with the joy of unexpected sights and sounds to be experienced at a walking, human and friendly pace.

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VENICE AT A SLOWER PACE

WHAT WE OFFER

PRIVATE TOURS

On foot & by boat, with the expertise of an insider guide, Venice will unfold in front of your eyes in all her unique beauty and legendary history.

CUSTOM SERVICES

If you’re not great walkers or if you don’t have much time, we suggest you to use our private water-taxi services and professional assistants.

Let us know what you’d like for your friends, family, working team or guests, we’ll give you a hand: our experience and creativeness is at your service!

NEWS FROM VENICE

JUST FOR ONE DAY

WHAT NEWS FROM SAN MARCO? GOOD NEWS...

VITTORE CARPACCIO’S EXHIBIT

Just one or two days in Venice? With our Grand Tour, you’ll see St Mark’s Square, the Basilica, one of the best Murano glass factories, the Grand Canal and the Rialto Bridge .

The Accademia Galleries is the greatest collection of Venetian painting in the world. Recently restyled, it offers a complete survey: Paolo Veneziano, Bellini, Carpaccio, Titian, Tintoretto.

Peggy Guggenheim lived in Venice for 30 years and left her art collection to the city she loved. Her home, Ca’ Venier dei Leoni, on the Grand Canal, is an attractive modern art museum.

THE BIENNALE

Finding perfect venues for your dinners in Venice. Planning team building activities: treasure hunts, evening with music, dances, masquerade balls.

SLOWER PACE

Our expertise as city guides and Venetian residents at the service of those that don’t feel like walking too much, and prefer to savor what Venice has to offer in terms of art, history, gourmet experiences and sophisticated shopping.

VENICE PRIVATE TOURS – WALKS INSIDE VENICE

Walks inside Venice proposes to independent travelers, travel agents & tour operators a wide variety of classic and unusual tours and experiences to all sites of interest in Venice, its Lagoon, & the Veneto region.

Guided visits to all museums, churches & palaces, art & history walks through the six Venetian neighborhoods, private boat rides, excursions to Murano, Burano & Torcello, day trips to Padua, Treviso, Vicenza, Verona, etc.

We also provide thematic itineraries focusing on art, architecture, music, contemporary art venues, Jewish heritage, artisans’ ateliers, Murano glass studios, wine and food, women in Venice, temporary exhibits, the plague, the Lagoon, and more.

Our 20-year-long experience suggested us to include a selection of private tours designed for families with children and teen-ager kids, slower-paced people and senior citizens, persons that simply prefer not to rush and enjoy relaxing.

VENICE PRIVATE TOURS – WALKS INSIDE VENICE  also showcases a new section of custom events & team-building activities varying from cooking classes to cocktails or dinners in private palaces and gardens, masks & mosaic making courses, wine tastings, treasure-hunting, and the like.

Walks inside Venice & Walks inside Italy can also design for you fully customized 3-or-4-day escapes to savor our smaller towns, their artistic & cultural heritage, their naturalistic attractions, their territorial food, wines, and recipes.

We can also take care of planning your arrivals and departures, assisting you with private transfers and English-speaking escort services.

Our guides are local people, all of them long-experienced professionals, and flawless English-speakers.

WALKS INSIDE ITALY

San Polo 1541 30125 VENICE, ITALY C.F. e P. Iva 04331170276 Prot. 2016/16140 del 25-2-2016 Polizza Europ Assistance 8957877

ART CITY WALKS

affiliato al Network Gruppo Info Vacanze di Walks Inside Italy Snc Sede Legale: San Polo, 1541 30125 Venice, Italy Sede Operativa: Via Volta n.13 30020 Marcon (Ve), Italy Tel 041 2750687 – Fax 041 5956807

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Secret Venice Tour of Dorsoduro District

Get to know the quiet but trendy academic district that has a banksy mural and cool movie locations.

Want to see the authentic Venice that most people miss? Away from the main tourist areas lies a maze of narrow canals and ancient streets just waiting to be explored. With your guide’s in-depth local knowledge, you’ll discover the true character of the Floating City. Join a small group walking tour through the charming Dorsoduro district to experience the vibrant local art scene and visit famous film locations, historic churches, and shady campos where real Venetian life plays out before you.

• Discover a different side of Venice
• Hidden gems of Dorsodoro
• See the Venice Banksy mural
• Historic Venetian churches
• Life by the canal
• Santa Maria del Carmelo
• Arts and culture of the city
• Experience Venice like a local!

This tour operates from April through November, and begins in Campiello degli Squelini, not far from the Grand Canal in the Dorsoduro district. You'll meet your friendly local guide and set off to explore the highlights of the neighborhood. Over the next couple of hours, your walking tour takes you to the Venice Banksy mural and the world’s largest canvas painting, not to mention the filming locations for Indiana Jones movies, Madonna music videos, and more.

Get to know the neighborhood’s unique churches and most impressive architecture and stroll along the promenade and through popular local campos where university students converse at night over drinks and dancing.

Venice Dorsoduro District Tour Description

Your 2-hour tour includes:

Guided tour of Venice’s Dorsoduro neighborhood

Local art, stunning churches, and charming hidden campos

See the Venice Banksy, Indiana Jones film locations, and more!

The quieter side of daily Venetian life

Engaging, English-speaking local guide

Maximum group size of 8

Meet Your Guide in Dorsoduro

Make your way to the charming Campiello degli Squelini, not far from the Grand Canal in Dorsoduro, where your local guide will be waiting to greet you and introduce you to this attractive Venice neighborhood.

One of the six sestieri (districts) of Venice, Dorsoduro is the city’s arts and university district, and it brings a youthful energy to complement its ancient architecture and classic Venetian streets and canals.

Venice’s Banksy and the World’s Largest Canvas Painting

Early in your tour, your guide will take you inside a local church to see a giant canvas painting thought to be the world’s biggest. Afterwards, you’ll stroll along an otherwise unremarkable canal where famous street artist Banksy left his mark on Venice—his mural depicts a migrant child holding a flare right at the water’s edge.

Local Life & Famous Film Sets in Campo Santa Margherita

Take a stroll through the lively Campo Santa Margherita, where the morning market makes way for one of the district's most lively squares when evening falls. See local life unfold before you, and be wowed by the fabulous Santa Maria del Carmelo church nearby.

Film lovers may see something familiar here—this is where scenes from "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade" and Katherine Hepburn’s "Summertime" were filmed! (Cue the selfies.)

Gorgeous Churches and the House of Othello

As you pass through the streets of Dorsoduro, you’ll happen upon a number of charming local churches that date back centuries. These include the only Venetian church with two bell towers, a 12th-century church with a wooden interior that was founded by poor fishermen during the days of the Venetian Republic, and the church that was the setting for Madonna’s "Like a Virgin" music video.

You’ll also see what remains of an ancient palace inhabited in the distant past by the Moro family and known as the House of Othello.

Arts and Culture at Ca’ Foscari

The Ca’ Foscari University is spread over a number of historic buildings in the Dorsoduro district, many of which you’ll see on this local walking tour of Venice. The main building is a striking Gothic palace that gives the university its distinctive character. Nearby is also one of Venice’s premier art galleries, which was pivotal in the fight to for freedom of artistic expression.

San Basilio & Fondamenta delle Zattere Promenade

Your guide will lead you along San Basilio, an old maritime terminal next to Canale della Giudecca. From here you can see across to Giudecca Island and its striking skyline of basilicas and historic industrial buildings.

Towards the end of your tour, you’ll stroll along the wide Fondamenta delle Zattere promenade where locals sip coffee by the water. Then head towards the Dorsoduro triangle tip where you’ll see an impressive collection of historic buildings and the famous Fortune Goddess statue.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What to bring?

Just some comfortable shoes, a bottle of water, and a sense of curiosity. Please wear sunscreen during hot summer months.

What if I’m concerned about my mobility?

If you have concerns about your mobility, please contact our team before booking. Due to the many steps on bridges in Venice, this tour is not accessible by wheelchair.

Is this tour run by The Tour Guy?

No, it's run by one of our trusted and vetted partners in Venice.

Can I bring my kids on this tour?

Yes, kids are welcome to join this tour!

Is this tour available all year?

No, this tour is offered seasonally from April to November on certain days of the week.

Free 24-hr cancellation on group tours! Learn more

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11AM – Campo SS Apostoli – Venice through the centuries North

Legends and curiosities of venice, venice stunning views and uniquenesses.

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Private Tours

Starting from August 1st, our 11 AM tour will exclusively use radio transmitters and earphones provided by Venice Free Walking Tour. According to the new municipal regulations, tour guides are prohibited from using loudspeakers. The city's noise levels make this change necessary, and we are delighted to offer you an even more personalized tour experience!

Meeting points, do you need an accommodation, work with us, performed every day - booking online is mandatory.

Campo SS Apostoli - 11AM EVERY DAY

Campo San Geremia MON - WED - FRI - SAT

Campo San Pantalon - From March to October TUE

Featured Testimonials

Exceptional free walking tour, laptoplady411, really worth your time.

Join a Guided Venice Walking Tour & Discover Its Enchanting Secrets

V enice in Northern Italy is often referred to as the “City of Canals” or the “Queen of the Adriatic,” is unlike any other place on Earth (no Venice in Vegas is never an option!)

While we’re not raving fans of Venice, we do think it should be on every traveler’s bucket list, simply because it is so unique with a long history worth learning about. 

One of the best ways to see mysterious Venice, is on foot. While a Venice walking tour doesn’t take you around the entire city, it does take you to the unmissable sites, and a few hidden gems, whilst simultaneously interacting with the locals and getting tips for visiting the city.

If you’re like us and you’re only visiting Venice for a day (that was more than enough for us) then you might be tempted by a walking tour of Venice.

But is it worth it? What do you see? And which walking tour organization should I go with? These are all excellent questions, which we will be answering below.

What is the best way to see Venice?

• Rialto Neighborhood: Venice's First

The Rialto Bridge

Wandering the alleyways, marco polo house, campo san giovanni e paolo, st mark’s basilica vip access, let’s finish with a gondola ride, local venetian tour guide, other venice tour options with walks of italy, final thoughts on a walking tour of venice.

Venice is not a huge city and so the best way to see it is on foot. You could easily walk around the main historic sites within an hour. If you require public transportation in Venice, your best bet is to hop on a water taxi.

The Venice Walking Tour Itinerary

Nestled on a cluster of 118 small islands in the Venetian Lagoon along the northeastern coast of Italy, Venice’s distinct beauty is immediately apparent.

The city’s architecture, prevalent in Gothic and Renaissance palaces, as well as iconic canals, and romantic gondolas make it a dream destination for many. 

However, while its intricate network of canals, alleyways, and bridges conceal hidden treasures waiting to be discovered, it can also lead you to feel lost in a maze of winding streets.

With a limited time for sightseeing, how do you know how to fit it all in, not get lost, and experience its enchanting secrets?

If you’re wondering what a walking tour experience of the floating city is like, here’s where our three hour guided tour took us:

Rialto Neighborhood: Venice’s First

We started our tour outside Chiesa di San Giacomo di Rialto, Venice’s first church and the city began on 25th March 421.

Legend has it that Venice began with the population from the mainland trying to find a place where they felt more protected from their rivals. The lagoon and marshlands provided them with that. 

After our introduction to the city and tour, Paolo, our local tour guide, guided us through this Rialto neighborhood, along the canal, and through the fruit and vegetable markets and Rialto Fish Market, which closes at midday due to the heat.

We didn’t get to see the bustling Rialto market that draws people from all over Venice, but we got to experience its lingering smell! 

It was a wonderful way to start the tour away from the crowds and learn more about Venetian life including its love for good seafood and prosecco, which comes from Venice! Venice also has its own winery, which you can enjoy on this wine tasting tour !

On the way to Rialto Bridge, we passed the souvenir shops on the main street. I bought a lovely pink scarf from here – out of necessity -as Kalyra was wearing shorts, and knees and shoulders must be covered when entering St Mark’s Basilica – one of the best stops on our Venice waking tour.

In the past, these souvenir markets were filled with luxury products like silk and spices as Venice was a central stop on the space trading routes, helping it to become an important economic global center in 1300s and 1400s.

No walking tour of Venice would be legit, if you did not walk over the oldest bridge across the Grand Canal. As a central crossing point, it has always played a vital role in the daily functioning of the Republic of Venice. 

In the middle of the bridge are more souvenir shops which have been there since its beginning.

The Rialto Bridge dates to the 12th century and was built as a wooden structure, but it collapsed twice before they decided to reconstruct it in the more reliable stone between 1588 and 1591 by Antonio da Ponte.

We stopped here briefly to marvel at the bridge’s architectural beauty, snap our “I was here photo”, and watch life go by on the Grand Canal. Paolo steered us over to the other side of the bridge – the less crowded side for a different but just as enjoyable Grand Canal view. 

Top Tip: Get to Venice early, ( like we did ) and visit the bridge before 10am for views without the crowds.

With her small flag to help us see her through the crowds, Paolo zig zagged us through the quiet squares and alleyways that whisper stories of the past. 

She shared those, but also practical tidbits like where to chow down on the best local eats and how to navigate the maze-like city streets are on the menu too.

I enjoyed learning more about Venetian life including the need to get around on ferries or gondolas to escape the 30 million visitors a year, and their obligations to clean up the mess, including dog poo.

Venice has six districts, three on one side of the Grand Canal and three on the other. If you have more time in Venice, it’s worth exploring to appreciate life in Venice beyond the top tourist attractions.

This continued as we wandered the narrow alleyways of Corte del Milion to visit the site of Marco Polo’s house in the quarter of San Giovanni Crisostomo. 

The famous explorer and merchant lived here for the last 25 years of his life, until January 1324. We learned a lot about his life as we stood in this square.

The original house unfortunately burnt down in 1596. All that remains is a great archway with a beautiful Veneto-Romanesque arched lintel and on the foundations of this big house, in 1678, the actual Malibran theater was constructed.

Some of the gondola rides will pass by it. I did on my first visit to Venice, but our gondola ride this time did not. Our tour proceeded on the other side of the building for views from the canal.

Paolo told us a lot about Marco Polo’s travel life, which was one of my favorite parts of this walking tour.

We winded through more alleyways, learning more about Venetian life to the much quieter Campo San Giovanni e Paolo, for an espresso break. 

In Venice campo is piazza, which means grass meadow. Each Island in Venice has its own campo serving the villages, and each campo has a church named after it, and a community well. The villagers would build tanks and fill them with sand to filter the brackish water into drinkable water.

It’s one of the largest squares in Venice and is where you’ll find Santi Giovanni e Paolo, one of the largest churches in the city. It’s named after St John and Paul the protectors and has the status of a minor basilica. Twenty-five doges are buried here.

Paolo also told us more about the Scuola Grande di San Marco hospital on the square, which used to be the home for the brotherhood fraternity.

Here you can pay €1.50 to use the restrooms or buy an espresso for the same price or less and use their facilities with it. #nobrainer

Now we’ve had our afternoon espresso fix, it’s time to stroll past the lines and into St. Mark’s Basilica, or Basilica di san Marco, with our pre-reserved skip-the-line tickets. 

Since we’d spent three weeks in Europe already, we were more than happy to visit St Mark’s Basilica on this guided tour. It’s small enough that a quick tour is more than adequate, and with a guide no time will be wasted looking at things you don’t understand. 

I loved having an excellent guide point out the most key features and sharing the Venetian history of Italy’s second most important church to us. He was full of interesting facts, anecdotes and information that you wouldn’t find in the guidebooks.

St. Mark’s Basilica is another awe-inspiring Byzantine masterpiece, highlighting intricate golden mosaics, gilded domes, and exquisite relics. Prepare to have your jaw meet the floor. 

It really is worth a visit, but there was no way I wanted to wait in line with most other people for hours waiting to get in. Skip the line with our Walks of Italy guided tour was impressive.

We also passed through St Mark’s Square, or Piazza san Marco, which was half taken over getting ready for an evening concert. To be honest, I find St Mark’s Square very underwhelming. As it’s open and free, you can visit it at any time on your trip to Venice.

You really can’t come to Venice and not do a gondola ride. There are some touristy attractions that just have to be done.

We finished our guided walking tour with the 30-minute gondola ride. It was part of the tour, which meant we could skip the lines! 

When you see that some of the gondola rides are the same price as this three-hour walking tour, you can understand the value of doing this tour as it’s included!

With just a handful of fellow adventurers on board, you’ll glide through the dreamy waterways, soaking in the cityscape designed for this exact view. 

As we were a family of four, we had a gondola all to ourselves, which we really appreciate. And since we were on the afternoon tour, we rode the gondola at the ideal time – late afternoon to early evening, just as the sun hit golden hour. 

This is the time when the Venetian architecture and quaint canals are awash in golden light, illuminating their finer details and intricate designs.

Taking a gondola ride in Venice is like stepping into a dream. As you drift along the city’s labyrinthine canals, you’ll be transported back to a time of romance and elegance.

Is a Guided Walking Tour of Venice Worth It?

We recommend joining a guided tour of Venice, like we did with Walks of Italy. They have various tour options to see all the sights and more.

The longer I travel (and with kids), especially now to destinations like Europe that have such a rich history, the more I see the value in guided tours.

It allows me the opportunity to switch off from being mum and head tour guide, and connect a little deeper to the destination, the city’s history and culture. Otherwise, it gets lost in a sea of complaints, bored brains, tired feet, crowd hustle, and endless navigation. 

Even if you have more than a day in Venice, a guided tour is a great way to orient yourself to the city and discover places you want to return to for a deeper look, and a more lingering Venice experience. Just ask your local guide to tell you some of those hidden secrets! 

If you’re ready to dive into the enchanting vibes of Venice without getting lost in a sea of maps, this is the tour for you. In just three hours, you’ll go from being a tourist to a Venice insider, all thanks to your local guide’s passion and know-how.

We joined the  Welcome to Venice: Walking Tour, St Mark’s Basilica & Gondola Ride tour as guests of Walks of Italy (but under no obligation to write this post).

We also did a guided walking tour in Florence with Walks of Italy and food and wine tour in Florence , a street food tour of Rome , and Montmartre food tour in Paris with their sister company Devour Tours and found both companies and tours to be professional, informative, and enjoyable.

One thing I love about Walks of Italy is that all tour their professional guides are local – either born and bred – or have lived there for some time. They also often have art and history degrees so are deeply knowledgeable about the area they are guiding you through. 

Our local guide Paola has lived in Venice for over two decades and was very passionate and well versed in Venetian culture and way of life.

Listening to Paola describe everyday life in Venice was the first time I understood why people would live here and battle the never-ending threat (and reality) of encroaching flood waters. (not too mention the never-ending tourists!)

She was kind, gentle, and attentive, answering all questions and keeping us at a gentle pace but making sure we didn’t miss anything. 

Unfortunately, we did have some tourists behaving badly on our tour. I’ve done hundreds of tours around the world, and this was the only time I’ve experienced such embarrassing behavior.

It was a gift for my girls to see this and appreciate their own respectful behavior but to understand the importance of considering others. 

It’s important for you to know this behavior is NOT normal, is in no way indicative of the Walks of Italy tour and did not spoil it.

What it is indicative of is the classy way Paola handled it. She was firm and direct and artfully knew what behaviors to ignore and which ones to address. Everyone else on the tour spoke so highly of her because of it and had deeper gratitude for her.

Walks of Italy have other options for guided tours of Venice. We wanted to join their Venice Boat Tour with Grand Canal & Clock Tower Climb but it was sold out. So be sure to book in advance !

As we enjoyed our Europe food tours so much, and Venice has a unique and delicious food scene, their Cicchetti, Food & Wine Tour at sunset would be a highlight!

With more time in Venice, you may want to escape the crowds with this enchanting day trip to Venice’s lesser-visited outer islands, such as the Island of Murano & Burano, complete with an exclusive wine tasting and private glassblowing demonstration from master glassmakers.

With its enchanting labyrinth of waterways, historic architecture, rich cultural heritage, and iconic landmarks, Venice has captured the imaginations of travelers for centuries. 

Taking this guided walking tour of Venice will allow you to toss those maps aside and effortlessly explore Venice and form a deeper connection to its history, culture, and people one quirky alley and majestic bridge at a time!

Wondering what else to do with the rest of your day in Venice? We have you covered: Check out our one-day itinerary of Venice with a few hidden food spots, and our surprising favorite tour. We also have a post sharing the top things to do in Venice and tips for visiting Doge’s Palace.

And while you are in this region, you must visit Verona . We stayed in Verona and traveled to Venice for the day. Many people do it the other way around, but for me, Verona has my heart. It’s a charming and romantic Italian town with more space and fewer crowds than Venice. See more tips and ideas in our Northern Italian itinerary .