Top 15 Guided Tours in Venice for Unforgettable Experiences

Venice comprises 118 small islands, all distinguished by exquisite canals and interconnected by over 400 bridges. Situated in the Veneto region of northeastern Italy, Venice is renowned for its architecture and artistry.

For centuries, Venice has captivated numerous visitors to Italy. With its rich historical background and intricate canal system, the allure of Venice is undeniable. While in Venice, abandon the roads and traverse the bridges or embark on a gondola adventure, allowing yourself to immerse in the diverse culture and history of this unique city.

Below are 15 premier Venice tours designed to ensure that you experience the most enchanting aspects of this remarkable city.

1. Boat Trip To Murano, Torcello & Burano

Explore three of the most well-known islands in the City of Canals during a boat trip that will navigate you through sections of the Venetian Lagoon.

This four-and-a-half-hour boat tour allows you to delve into the rich history, culture, and scenic beauty of the three Islands, with a 45-minute stop at each. Observe skilled artisans demonstrating glassblowing in Murano, admire the vibrantly painted houses in Burano, and experience the peaceful landscapes of Torcello.

The multilingual guide accompanying you on the boat will provide insights into the history of these renowned islands while allowing you the freedom to discover at your own pace.

2. Doge’s Palace Priority Admission Ticket

Visit the historical palace that was formerly the residence of the Doge of Venice, bypassing long queues. Proceed directly to this illustrious site and explore its distinctive architecture and artworks.

Allocate time to uncover the magnificent works of art on display and explore the iconic golden staircase along with the Bridge of Sighs that leads to the prison.

This palace serves as a significant representation of the city’s vast history and culture, providing a glimpse into the past.

3. Grand Canal Gondola Ride

This gondola journey will take you along the 3,800-meter Grand Canal, the principal waterway of Venice.

This 30-minute gondola ride navigates through serene waters and beneath small bridges. Throughout the ride, experience the essence of the City of Canals.

Utilize a map featuring descriptions of the landmarks you will pass by, and engage with audio commentary through a mobile app during your gondola experience.

4. Doge’s Palace & St. Mark’s Basilica Tour

Uncover two significant landmarks of Venice on a walking tour that guides you through the essential attractions of St. Mark’s Square.

This two-hour walking tour not only showcases the highlights of St. Mark’s Square but also grants you immediate entrance to St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace. Witness the pinnacle of Italo-Byzantine architecture at St. Mark’s Basilica and enhance your understanding of Venice’s history at Doge’s Palace.

The guided tour ensures you receive comprehensive knowledge about the essential historical, cultural, and architectural elements of the sites you visit.

5. Gems Of The Venetian Lagoon

This boat excursion takes you from St. Mark’s waterfront around the islands of San Giorgio Maggiore and Lido, exploring the true treasures of the Venetian lagoon.

This tour encompasses four hours of travel through the Venetian lagoon, passing by San Giorgio Maggiore and Lido, and also featuring stops at the vibrantly colored houses in Burano and the classic glassblowing industry of Murano.

Appreciate the natural beauty of the islands and the surrounding waters, as a live multilingual guide shares insights regarding the sights encountered along the way.

6. Murano and Burano Islands Tour

This tour transports you to the islands of Murano and Burano by boat, where you can pause to appreciate the vividly colored houses, experience the serene and refreshing ambience, and learn about the glassblowing techniques employed by masters at the glass factory.

Spending four hours on the boat and exploring the two islands ensures an experience that is both enjoyable and educational. A multilingual guide accompanies you throughout the journey to provide the utmost tour experience.

7. The Mysterious Venice Walking Tour

This unique tour invites you to explore the enigmatic side of Venice. Accompanied by an experienced guide, discover the city’s unusual secrets as you navigate through its heart.

Join a 75-minute walk through the lesser-known parts of Venice, where the true spirit of the city resides. Uncover hidden and secluded locations, complete with rich histories and unique marketplaces. Visit the oldest church in the city, The Church of San Giacometto, situated in the Rialto Area, which was once a vital trading hub.

Wander through intricate streets and squares, revealing an alternative perspective of Venice characterized by iconic architectural marvels and deep-rooted history.

8. Grand Canal Gondola Serenade

Experience a delightful excursion along the Grand Canal, accompanied by an enchanting serenade featuring iconic Italian songs during your gondola ride.

This 30-minute shared gondola ride offers a memorable journey complemented by a professional singer performing authentic Italian melodies amid stunning scenery.

Connect via mobile app to access audio commentary while leisurely cruising through the less crowded waterways in a tranquil setting.

9. Leonardo Da Vinci Museum Skip-The-Line Ticket

Gain exclusive access to the Leonardo Da Vinci Museum, advancing directly inside without the necessity to wait in long lines.

Dedicate time to explore the masterpieces of Leonardo Da Vinci, while learning about his life within a museum themed around the four natural elements: earth, water, fire, and air.

This engaging, family-friendly tour captivates adults and children alike with its distinctive showcases.

10. Venice Carnival Grand Ball Gala Dinner & Show

Celebrate the Venice Carnival with a grand ball, immersing yourself in a historic tradition that showcases elaborate costumes and a vibrant party atmosphere.

Spend four hours at an exclusive gala, enriched with music, dance, and performances by magicians and contortionists. Savor exquisite dishes accompanied by drinks, all while being serenaded by pianists and entertained by a variety of shows.

This lavish evening promises to leave you with unforgettable memories of your time in the city.

11. Carnival Mask Workshop

Participate in this distinctive workshop in the City of Masks, where you will learn traditional techniques for mask creation and even craft your own.

During this hour-long session, refine your skills while being taught traditional methods of producing masks from papier-mâché.

All necessary materials are furnished, allowing you to explore your creativity with guidance and tips provided throughout the mask-making process.

12. Venice Walking Tour & Gondola Ride

Enhance your understanding of the city built on water and canals through a walking tour supplemented by a gondola ride.

This two-hour excursion allows you to navigate the primary points of interest on foot, delving into the city’s history, followed by a gondola ride that presents a different yet beautiful perspective of the city.

Let a knowledgeable guide inform you about the city’s narrative as you traverse the primary attractions, showcasing its artistry and heritage.

13. Rialto Market Lunchtime Tour

Immerse yourself in the unique ambiance of Venice through a walking and tasting tour that enriches your understanding of the city’s culinary scene and culture.

This four-hour expedition introduces you to prominent landmarks as well as hidden gems that are equally enchanting. During this tour, you will have opportunities to meet local artisans and producers who can share insights about life in this fascinating city.

Relish the tastings at seven distinct eateries, each serving authentic, high-quality Italian cuisine, including an 18th-century osteria specialized in Venetian delicacies.

14. Legends & Ghosts of Cannaregio Tour

Venture into the hidden and shadowy corners of the city through this unique tour that offers a distinctive experience of Venice.

Dedicate four hours to uncovering the dark streets and isolated areas of Cannaregio in the evening, as your guide narrates captivating stories about the ghosts and legends associated with Venice.

The professional guide provides insights in German, English, and French through headphones to enhance your tour experience.

15. Hop-on Hop-off City Sightseeing Boat Tour

Experience the beauty of Venice, with its numerous bridges and intricate canal systems, on a hop-on-hop-off city tour that empowers you to disembark at any preferred stop.

The complete tour spans two hours, yet allows you to select your stop to explore the city, revealing its remarkable architecture, history, and cultural richness at your leisure. Visit all desired major attractions at your own pace while enjoying complimentary onboard Wi-Fi.