Venice Private Gondola Ride: Explore Hidden Canals and Sights

Overview

Step aboard your private gondola and glide through the canals of Venice. Whether you want to meander through hidden corners or glide under famous bridges and sights – this tour satisfies all tastes. Fabio, one of the gondoliers, says, ‘Being a gondolier is so much more than operating a gondola. Over 400 hours go into getting a Gondolier license, learning the ins and outs of the canals, Venetian art and history. You’re really in the safest hands.’ The shortest tour focuses on the San Paolo district. Discover an intimate side of Venice and lesser-known gems. Canal-facing facades are a unique characteristic of Venetian buildings before streets came along – the canals were the streets – and they were a way of showing style and wealth. If you want to continue to the Grand Canal you can choose the 1-hour tour and If you’re bursting to see Venice’s more famed locations, the 1.5-hour tour showcases the Rialto Bridge area and the longest ride adds St. Mark’s Square to the itinerary.

What's included

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

• ✕Transportation to the meeting point

What you'll do

1. 1

   Drift past the elegant Carmelite church and feel centuries of history echo off its Renaissance façade. Then swoon at the fairytale charm of Torres’ neo-medieval home—so romantic, it practically whispers sweet nothings to passing lovers.

2. 2

   Wander through the lavish halls of Palazzo Ca' Zenobio, where elegance meets intrigue—and if you're lucky, you might just stumble upon a film shoot .

3. 3

   /30 min tour ends here/ Cruise past the Cicogna Palace along Fondamenta Briati and catch a glimpse of its quiet courtyard with a cool Istrian stone well. Then step into San Polo, Venice’s largest square, where the scent of fresh pastries drifts from lively taverns. Explore historic churches and the birthplace of playwright Carlo Goldoni in this vibrant, lived-in corner of the city.

4. 4

   Step aboard a traditional Venetian gondola and glide along the iconic Grand Canal—known affectionately by locals as the “Canalasso.” As your gondolier expertly navigates the waterways, take in the timeless beauty of Venice from a unique perspective. Don’t miss the opportunity to ask your gondolier about the striking Calatrava Bridge. You may have crossed this modern glass structure upon your arrival, but during our tour, you’ll enjoy a privileged view—especially enchanting when illuminated in the evening.

5. 5

   As we glide along the Grand Canal, take a moment to admire the elegant Degli Scalzi Bridge. Constructed in 1846, this architectural landmark was designed to provide a vital connection between the bustling districts of San Polo, Rialto, and Santa Margherita with the newly established railway station—ushering in a new era of accessibility for Venice.

Availability & pricing

8 tour options available. Pick your exact date & check live availability on the booking page.

Good to know

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

Cancellation policy

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