Venice is one of those places that doesn’t feel real until you see it with your own eyes. A city floating on water, with 118 islands connected by canals, arched bridges, and centuries-old buildings—it’s truly unlike anywhere else.
Even though I grew up in Bologna, just a couple of hours away, Venice never loses its magic for me. Sure, it can be crowded, and the occasional high tide can flood the streets, but there’s something about its atmosphere that always draws me back.
One of the best things about Venice? No cars, no buses—just boats and your own two feet. You can explore on foot, go on a classic Venice tour, and hop on ferries, but trust me, you haven’t really experienced Venice until you’ve seen it from the water.
Picture yourself gliding through the canals, passing under historic bridges, and watching the city’s elegant palaces reflect on the water. A gondola ride is the classic way to do it, but if that’s not your thing, don’t worry—there are plenty of other options.
Cruise down the Grand Canal by boat, take a catamaran ride across the lagoon, visit the colorful islands of Murano and Burano, or catch a sunset over the water.
To help you choose the best experience, I’ve handpicked the top boat tours in Venice.
➥ Why should you trust me? Growing up in Bologna, just a short train ride away, I’ve visited Venice more times than I can count, and I know what’s truly worth doing and what’s just a tourist trap. With over a decade in the travel industry, I carefully select only the best tours.
I generally use Viator and Get Your Guide to book tours around the world. I especially recommend them for their great cancellation policy. If you need to change your plans, you can cancel most activities up to 24 hours in advance and get a full refund.
My favorite tour this time is one by Walks, a tour company specializing in cultural experiences in Italy, Europe, and beyond. They also allow free cancellations and date changes (pending availability) up to 24 hours before your tour date.
Are you in a rush? These are the top tours:
| THE BEST TOUR | VIP Venice Boat Tour With Grand Canal |
| MURANO & BURANO TOUR | Murano, Burano, Torcello Island & Glass Factory Tour |
| PRIVATE TOUR | Private: 2-Hour Grand Canal and Secret Canals |
| GONDOLA RIDE | Private Bridge of Sighs Gondola Ride |
| SUNSET CRUISE | Catamaran Sunset Jazz Cruise with Aperitivo |
OUR PICK: The BEST Boat Tour in Venice, Italy
The VIP Venice Boat Tour With Grand Canal is our top choice, as it offers you the best way to explore this floating city: through its canals!
The experience lasts 1.5 hours and operates with small groups of up to eight people, ensuring an intimate and exclusive tour. You’ll hop on a motorboat reserved for the group, and cruise down the Grand Canal with a driver and a guide, focusing on the sights as you learn about the fascinating city.
You’ll cruise past historic sites and palaces, admiring the unique Venetian architecture as you sail under the Rialto Bridge, and pass by St. Mark’s Basilica, the Rialto Fish Market, Doge’s Palace, and the Accademia Gallery.
You’ll discover the stories tied to each attraction as you see them from a new angle, and cruise along scenic and smaller canals, gaining a glimpse into the non-touristy side of Venice.
➤ Why is this the best tour? The tour offers a comprehensive introduction to the city, its history, and major landmarks, as you take in the passing views from a comfortable, spacious boat (which is not the case with gondolas!). You’ll see both the famous and lesser-known attractions from the original streets of Venice: the canals.
Read what the reviews say:
“This was the highlight of our time in Venice. Venice was meant to be seen / navigated by boat and we loved every minute of this tour. We saw so many things we would have never seen if we were walking on foot. A very memorable experience and our guide, Jennifer was very knowledgeable and a wonderful ambassador for the city. Don’t think about it any more, book this experience now!!”
Alyssa – Read more reviews
This tour includes: A speedboat, entrance ticket, headsets, and a guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
➤ If you prefer, you can book the same exact tour, under the name Venice: VIP Boat Tour with Grand Canal, on Get Your Guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Grand Canal Boat Tour
This Grand Canal Boat Tour is the classic Venetian experience with a twist. You’ll board a modern, fancy motorboat and escape the busy streets to enjoy a relaxing cruise down the Grand Canal.
Pass by many Patrician homes, luxurious buildings, and several landmarks as you glide along the waterfront. Make sure to keep an eye out for the astounding Rialto Bridge!
This Grand Canal tour in Venice includes: Boat ride, and a hostess. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Murano and Burano Boat Tours
▶️ Venture to the striking Venetian islands as you sail across the lagoon on this Murano, Burano, Torcello Island & Glass Factory Tour.
Prepare to be dazzled as you step into the world of Murano’s glassworks during a factory tour, and witness skilled artisans in action. Then, immerse yourself in the vibrant hues and lacework of Burano’s charming streets, indulging in local delights along the way!
Lastly, transport yourself back in time on Torcello, known for its Venetian-Byzantine mosaics.
This Venice boat tour to the islands includes: Boat ride, glass factory visit, and free time in Burano and Torcello. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Looking for a different option? Hop on a Premium Lagoon Excursion: Murano Glassblowing & Burano. You’ll join a local guide and a small group and catch sights of St. Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace, and the Bridge of Sighs as you leave Venice behind.
You’ll visit the island of Murano, where you’ll discover the art of glass-making as you tour a factory and enjoy a demonstration, and then head to nearby Burano. There, you’ll get to stroll along the colorful houses and visit a lace-making workshop where you’ll learn about the island’s ancient tradition.
A guide will provide interesting insights about the islands, their history, and culture as you explore them.
This boat to Murano and Burano includes: Roundtrip transfers, a guide, a walking tour, a glassblowing demonstration, and free time on both islands. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
➤ Looking for more Murano and Burano boat tours? I’ve written an entire post about it. Check it out!
Private Boat Tours in Venice
If you prefer a more intimate experience, Venice offers plenty of private tours. Join this Private Canal Cruise: 2-Hour Grand Canal and Secret Canals Boat Ride to glide along the city’s gorgeous waterways.
You’ll pass by Venice’s different districts, and explore the lesser-known areas of Cannaregio, the Jewish Ghetto, and Dorsoduro.
While your guide provides insights into Venice’s history, legends, and culture, you’ll glide on the lesser-known canals. End your tour along the spectacular Grand Canal, marveling at the Rialto Bridge.
This tour includes: A 2-hour boat ride, a guide, and stops at the Jewish Ghetto and Dorsoduro. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ This Private Boat Tour in the Venice Lagoon lasts one hour, so it’s a perfect fit for busy schedules. You’ll hop on a small boat, that accommodates up to 4 travelers, and explore the southern lagoon of Venice, sailing around the Giudecca islands and taking in the views.
The itinerary is customizable, so you can choose to visit the islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello, or cruise to Punta Sabbioni and Cavallino Treporti instead.
For an extra fee, you can include Prosecco and cichetti, and toast to a new day in Venice while watching the sunset from the water.
This tour includes: A private boat ride, and optional Prosecco and cichetti. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
A Classic Gondola Ride in Venice
▶️ The Venice: Grand Canal by Gondola with Live Commentary starts with a walking tour in which you’ll discover fascinating insights about the city and its attractions.
You’ll then hop on a gondola and glide along the canals, sporting iconic landmarks and taking in the sights while enjoying the live commentary of your guide.
Spot the renowned La Fenice Theatre and Mozart House, and cruise past the Peggy Guggenheim Museum and the Salute Church, besides exploring smaller and lesser-known canals.
You can opt to include a Virtual Reality Experience to discover the city’s past at The Yard of Venice.
This Venice Gondola tour includes: Gondola ride, in-app commentary, and an introductory walk. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Venice Sunset Cruises
▶️ Set sail on a 2-hour Sunset Gondola Ride in Venice by Typical Venetian Boat. You’ll cruise across the enchanting lagoon, passing by the historic buildings that surround it with a small group.
Immerse in the beauty of Venice Lido, San Clemente Le Grazie, and other remote islands. The sights are even more magnificent as the sun basks everything in a golden light. Toast to the experience with a half bottle of Prosecco onboard your traditional boat.
This tour includes: Sunset boat ride, half a bottle of Prosecco, a guide, and soft drinks on request. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Spice up your evening with a delightful Venice: Catamaran Sunset Jazz Cruise with Aperitivo. Experience the alluring charm of Venice as you glide through the canals during sunset. Sail along the Bay of San Marco, and down the Giudecca Channel.
Sip on a refreshing spritz or Prosecco (or both!) and listen to soothing jazz melodies from a live saxophonist, as the colors in the sky change and Venice’s waterfront lit up.
Pair your two drinks, which include beer and cocktails as well, with Cicchetti, the classic Venetian appetizers.
This tour includes: Catamaran cruise, live music, Cicchetti, and 2 drinks. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Venice Dinner Cruise on a Galleon
Get ready for a magical candlelit Venetian Lagoon Tour and Galleon Dinner. Indulge in the chef’s exquisite creations, paired with wine and a glass of Prosecco.
As you dine, you’ll get to admire the San Marco Square from the water, and traverse the picturesque islands of Murano and Burano.
Plus, you’ll be surely captivated by the lesser-known islands of Sant’Erasmo and San Francesco del Deserto you’ll cruise past.
Take in the panoramic views from the vessel’s windows, sitting comfortably as you sip on your drinks. The exclusive experience also offers the chance to disembark at the Museo Navale.
This tour includes: Boat ride, dinner, wine, and coffee. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Catamaran Cruise in Venice
Step aboard a catamaran and let Venice captivate you on this Lagoon Catamaran Cruise with Music and Drinks. Sip on a refreshing spritz or Prosecco while admiring the city’s skyline, and get ready to explore the Venetian lagoon.
You’ll sail past the Sant’Elena island, the Giardini della Biennale, and the iconic San Marco. Plus, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Canale di Giudecca before it’s time to venture across to the enchanting Lido.
With comfortable seats, soothing music, and great views, this cruise promises a blend of relaxation and discovery.
This tour includes: Catamaran ride, and drinks (if the option is selected at check out). ➥ BOOK IT HERE
