Venice: St. Mark's Square and Rialto with 30 minutes Gondola Ride

This is the tour for those that come to Venice for the first time: we will talk about the winged lion, the story of St Mark being brought to Venice from Egypt, his “golden church”, and then Theodore, killing a dragon, and, of course, when, how and why the Venetians have built a city on hundreds of thousands of wooden poles stuck in the mud of the lagoon. We will visit St Mark’s square, the basilica and we will end at the Rialto bridge on the Grand Canal. Walking across the city --you can choose between the Castello or San Marco districts-- we will also see some of the hidden corners in Venice, understanding everyday life in the city, its problems, what is like to live in such a city and about the “high water” phenomenon and what is on to protect the city and the lagoon. And, last but not least: a 30 minutes Gondola ride to end with an unforgettable experience.

1. 1

   Piazza San Marco

   40 min

   Begin your journey in Piazza San Marco, the heart of Venice and one of the most breathtaking squares in the world. Surrounded by architectural masterpieces like St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, and the towering Campanile, this iconic square has been the center of Venetian life for centuries. Your guide will share stories of the city's powerful past, its maritime empire, and the significance of the remarkable landmarks that make this piazza an unmissable stop.

2. 2

   Ponte di Rialto

   30 min

   Walk through the vibrant streets of Venice and arrive at the Rialto Bridge, the oldest and most famous bridge crossing the Grand Canal. From this scenic spot, admire the stunning views of the bustling waterway below, where gondolas and vaporettos glide past historic palaces and lively markets. Your guide will bring the bridge’s history to life, from its early wooden structures to the grand stone archway that stands today, a symbol of Venice’s trading legacy.

3. 3

   Stop 3

   1 hour

   Admire the magnificent Grand Canal, the city's main waterway, lined with opulent palaces, elegant bridges, and centuries of history. Your guide will highlight the architectural beauty and historical significance of this Venetian artery, where merchants and noble families once showcased their wealth. To complete your experience, enjoy a 30-minute private gondola ride, drifting through Venice’s serene canals. Relax as your gondolier navigates hidden waterways and picturesque bridges, offering you a unique perspective of the city. This timeless experience captures the romance and charm of Venice, making for an unforgettable way to end your tour.

• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• On certain dates, most travelers staying outside of Venice who are planning to visit for the day will be required to pay a €5 access fee. For further details (including exemptions) and to learn what days this fee is applicable, please visit: https://cda.ve.it
• Kindly note that the guide will not join you during the Gondola Ride

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