Venice Private Gondola Ride: Explore Hidden Canals and Sights

Step aboard your private gondola and glide through the canals of Venice, with different routes taking you from quieter waterways to some of the city’s best-known sights. Fabio, one of the gondoliers, says, “Being a gondolier is so much more than operating a gondola. Over 400 hours go into getting a Gondolier licence, learning the ins and outs of the canals, Venetian art and history. You’re really in the safest hands.” The shortest tour takes you through the San Paolo district, offering an intimate look at Venice away from the busiest sights. Look out for the distinctive canal-facing façades of Venetian buildings. The one-hour option continues towards the Grand Canal, while the 1.5-hour tour takes you towards the Rialto Bridge area. The longest ride also includes St Mark’s Square, bringing some of Venice’s most famous sights into the itinerary. Whichever route you choose, you’ll experience the city from its historic waterways.

1. 1

   Chiesa di Santa Maria dei Carmini

   Pass by

   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

   Ca' Zenobio degli Armeni

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   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

   Palazzina Briati

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   /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

   Bar Caffe Ca' Foscari

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   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

   Ponte degli Scalzi

   Pass by

   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.

6. 6

   Palazzo Pisani Moretta

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   As the journey continues along the Grand Canal, you’ll be captivated by the striking façade of the Pisani-Moretta Palace—an outstanding example of Venetian Gothic architecture. Its elegant design is structured into three grand sections, framed by intricate stonework that reflects the city’s noble heritage.

7. 7

   San Polo

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   /60 minutes tour ends here/ Welcome to San Polo, the largest square in Venice and a vibrant heart of local life. This historic district is known for its unique blend of tradition and enterprise—where homes and workshops once stood side by side, embodying the classic Venetian “shop-house” lifestyle.

8. 8

   Ponte di Rialto

   Pass by

   The highlight of this itinerary through Venice is the magnificent Rialto Bridge—the city’s oldest and most celebrated crossing. No matter the hour, it’s a favorite spot for visitors capturing memories with photos and selfies. But on this tour, you’ll enjoy a privileged view from the water, offering a fresh and elegant perspective. Surrounding the bridge, you’ll notice a lively mix of traditional shops and inviting restaurants that reflect the area’s enduring charm. The bridge owes its name to the nearby market, which gained such prominence by the mid-13th century that the entire area became known as Rialto.

9. 9

   Ca' Farsetti

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   As you pass along the Grand Canal, your attention will be drawn to the stately façade of Ca’ Farsetti, one of Venice’s most distinguished palaces. Built in the 13th century in the Venetian-Byzantine style, this historic building now serves as the seat of the City Hall. Its elegant arches and noble columns reflect centuries of civic pride and political heritage.

10. 10

    Galleria Giorgio Franchetti alla Ca' d'Oro

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    At the eastern end of the bridge once stood the old mint, giving rise to its former name, Ponte della Moneta. As we approach the dazzling Ca’ d’Oro, admire its façade—once believed to be adorned with real gold.

11. 11

    Mercati di Rialto

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    /90 minutes tour ends here/ From the canal, the Rialto Market bursts into view with vibrant colors, lively voices, and the scent of fresh produce drifting through the air.

12. 12

    San Marco

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    Step into San Marco Square — Venice’s grand “living room of Europe,” where history and elegance meet. Your gondolier will guide you past the majestic cathedral and bell tower, rebuilt in 1902 after centuries of awe.

13. 13

    Bridge Of Sighs

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    Pass under the iconic Bridge of Sighs, where centuries of secrets and stories linger in the silence of stone. Legend says a kiss beneath it at sunset seals a love that lasts forever

14. 14

    Palazzo Ducale

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    Beneath the shadowed arches of the Doge’s Palace, secrets of a powerful republic linger in silence. Once home to rulers and prisoners alike, its walls still whisper tales of intrigue and hidden justice

15. 15

    Basilica Santa Maria della Salute

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    /2-hour tour ends here/ Admire the majestic Chiesa della Salute, rising gracefully at the Grand Canal’s edge—a symbol of Venice’s resilience and devotion. Built in gratitude after the plague, its baroque beauty tells a story of hope carved in stone and light.

• 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

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