Venice is a remarkable city in Italy with an incredibly special attribute: it’s built on water. The enchanting canals replace the roads, and the gondolas and vaporettos act the part of cars, taking you around the +100 islands that make it up.
The city is also famous for its stunning architecture, and delicious local cuisine. But Venice is so much more than its waterways and buildings! And it’s a key destination if you’re spending 2 weeks in Italy (or even less!)
From eerie legends that star in thrilling ghost tours to colorful islands, interesting landmarks, and Carnival festivities, there’s a lot to discover in the city of canals.
In this article, you’ll find over 20 amazing Venice tours catering to pretty much every interest. From delicious food trips to gondola rides, full-day trips, and unusual activities, they cover it all.
Why should you trust my guide to the best tours in Venice, Italy? Being a Bologna native, I’ve had the luxury of exploring Italy extensively, including many trips to Venice.
With a decade in the travel industry, I don’t just pick any tour. I carefully select each one to ensure you’ll get an experience that’s not only memorable but also true to the heart of Venice.
I usually use Viator, Get Your Guide, and Walks Tours to book activities around the world. I especially recommend them for their fantastic cancellation policy. If for any reason your plans change, you can cancel most tours up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Limited time? These are the best tours:
OUR PICK: The BEST Venice Tour for First Timers
If it’s your first time in this mesmerizing city, you’re in for a treat with the Venice In a Day: Basilica San Marco, Doges Palace & Gondola ride. This expertly crafted itinerary covers all the must-see attractions and lets you soak in the essence of Venice in style.
Wander across the legendary Rialto Bridge and explore the vibrant Rialto fish market, where the locals do their shopping. Then, embark on a romantic gondola cruise along the Grand Canal and into the quieter side canals with up to 4 other participants.
At the end of the gondola ride, you’ll have free time to grab a snack or coffee on your own, with plenty of recommendations from your guide on where to go. Meet up again at Mark’s Square to visit one of the iconic landmarks: St. Mark’s Basilica.
Discover its architecture and history in-depth as you explore it, and then pay a visit to Doge’s Palace with skip-the-line access. Explore the audience halls and council rooms as you immerse yourself in tales of the city’s past.
Make sure to ask your guide for the story of Casanova’s imprisonment at the Palace!
Why is this the best tour? It’s a superb tour, super comprehensive, and with rich stories and facts that bring the city landmarks to life. You’ll not only visit the major attractions but also experience the must-dos in Venice, such as gondola riding.
Read what the reviews say:
“I cannot recommend this experience more! The tour was timed well, and we saw all the important spots around Venice. Elena was extremely knowledgeable, funny, and very kind. The tour included a gondola ride and entrance into St. Mark’s basilica and the Doge’s palace. I learned so much about Venice through this tour that I would not have otherwise. Thank you Elena!”
Maycie – Read more reviews
This tour includes: A guide, a city walking tour, a skip-the-line entrance to St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace, a headset, and a gondola ride. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Another Comprehensive Tour of Venice
Unveil the darker side of Venice’s history on this captivating St Marks, Doges Palace, with Murano and Burano & Gondola Ride. With express tickets to St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace, you’ll be led by an art historian through Venetian gothic architecture.
Discover the secrets of Doge’s Palace, including its crime and legal system, and explore its torture chambers. Wander around the palatial courtyard and cross the infamous Bridge of Sighs, catching a glimpse of the Republic’s prison cells.
Then, it’s time to embrace the romance of Venice with a gondola ride, steered by a skilled “rowing master.”
Complete your experience with a mesmerizing trip to the islands of Murano and Burano. Famed for their glassblowing artwork and lace-making respectively, you’ll enjoy a live demonstration of both.
This tour includes: Skip-the-line access to Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica, transfers to and from Murano & Burano, free time on the islands, a gondola ride, and a guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Gondola Rides in Venice
▶️ Cruise through Venice’s enchanting waterways with this Private Gondola Ride along the Grand Canal. You’ll enjoy an exclusive view of the city’s treasures from the water with your favorite people.
Glide on the iconic Grand Canal and spot landmarks along the way, such as La Fenice Theater, and Basilica Santa Maria della Salute. The gondolier might be able to share fascinating tales of the sights you encounter.
The gondola ride lasts 30 minutes and accommodates up to 5 people.
This tour includes: A gondola ride. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ A great alternative is the Venice: Grand Canal Gondola Ride with App Commentary. It’s an informative and fun adventure along Venice’s main waterway.
Glide through the city’s historic heart as you hear the insightful commentary of an app on your phone. As you listen, take in the sights of palaces, churches, and other landmarks.
An expert gondolier will take you down the Grand Canal and other smaller ones so you can get a full picture of the real Venice. End this journey with a mesmerizing view of Saint Mark’s Basin and San Giorgio Island.
This tour includes: A gondola ride, in-app commentary, a 15-minute introduction to the experience, and wifi to download the app. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Tour to St. Mark’s Basilica & Doge’s Palace
▶️ Check out this Legendary Venice St. Mark’s Basilica with Terrace Access & Doge’s Palace Tour. You’ll immerse yourself in the captivating history of these iconic landmarks.
Skip the lines to access the Basilica and admire its opulent interior, adorned with mosaics and Byzantine treasures. Your local guide will bring Venetian history to life with fascinating stories.
Access the Terrace and get an exclusive peek from the Basilica’s balcony over Piazza San Marco. Then, traverse the historic Doge’s Palace, where politics and crime once intertwined.
The visit will give you a chance to walk over the Bridge of Sighs, where convicts walked to their undesirable fates of imprisonment.
This tour includes: A local guide, skip-the-line access to St. Mark’s Basilica, tickets for Doge’s Palace, and a headset if needed. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ An amazing excursion is this Venice: St Mark’s Basilica After-Hours Tour with Optional Doge’s Palace. As the sun sets, step into a realm of beauty and history, marveling at the basilica’s stunning mosaics long after the crowds have left.
Visit the crypt, believed to house the remains of St. Mark, and take in the breathtaking Pala d’Oro and its precious gems.
Joined by a professional guide you’ll get to discover in-depth the history and architecture of the landmark. Upgrade the tour to explore Doge’s Palace and the Bridge of Sighs as well.
With limited group sizes, revel in the tranquility and skip the daytime crowds.
This tour includes: A guide, after-hours entrance to St. Mark’s Basilica, and optional Doge’s Palace entrance. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Murano and Burano Tour from Venice
If you’re in Venice for more than one day, you should definitely go and explore the other islands of the Venice lagoon. Here’s our top pick for the very best Murano and Burano tours.
Visit three islands on this Venice: Murano, Burano, Torcello Island & Glass Factory Tour. It’s one of the greatest excursions to explore the enchanting and very colorful islands near Venice.
You’ll sail across the emerald Venetian Lagoon, being awestruck by the panoramic views, and make your way to Murano.
Visit its famous glass-making factory to witness skilled artisans crafting intricate glass ornaments. Then set off to Burano, known for its vibrantly painted houses and its lace-making industry, and finish the trip in Torcello.
You’ll have plenty of free time on the islands to explore them at your leisure, savor local cuisine, and shop for souvenirs.
This tour includes: Boat transfers, a glass-making demonstration, free time, and a guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Walking Tours of Venice, Italy
▶️ Unveil Venice’s secrets on this Venice Sightseeing Walking Tour with a Local Guide. Wander through Campo Santa Margherita and marvel at the Scuola Grande di San Rocco as you learn about the island’s history and culture.
Visit the resting place of the legendary painter Titian at Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari, and trace Marco Polo’s roots. You’ll also cross the iconic Rialto Bridge, and end at the grandiose St. Mark’s Square.
With insider tips from your guide, this tour is the ultimate Venetian adventure in a nutshell! You can upgrade to a private tour of Venice to enjoy a VIP experience.
This tour includes: A local guide, and a walking tour. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Escape the tourist crowds and delve into the city’s hidden gems on this Exclusive Rooftop Terraces Tour with Prosecco.
This walking tour takes you to various city rooftops, from where you’ll enjoy panoramic views over the canals, bridges, and churches. In other words, it offers a new perspective on Venice!
Stroll through the ancient Red Light District and the sestiere of San Polo, and access private palaces accompanied by a local guide. You’ll also get to explore the Rialto Market, and cap off the tour with a glass of Prosecco.
This Venice walking tour includes: A guide, rooftops entrance fee, and a glass of Prosecco. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ The Welcome to Venice: Walking Tour, St. Mark’s Basilica & Gondola Ride offers the perfect introduction to the floating city.
Led by a savvy local guide, you’ll go off the beaten path to Cannaregio, the historical Jewish Ghetto, where you’ll dive into Venice’s history.
You’ll also visit the iconic St. Mark’s Basilica, explore the Rialto Fish Market, and pass by Santa Maria dei Miracoli and the house of Marco Polo.
The cherry on top? A serene 30-minute gondola ride in Venice, allowing you to experience Venice as it was meant to be seen—from the water! This tour accommodates up to 18 people, ensuring a personalized experience.
This Venice city tour includes: A guide, skip-the-line access to St. Mark’s Basilica, a gondola ride, and a walking tour. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Private Venice Tours
▶️ Discover the city’s hidden gems on a Private Venice Canal Cruise: 2-Hour Grand Canal and Secret Canals. Glide through the secret canals of Cannaregio and Dorsoduro, witnessing daily Venetian life.
Enjoy a Jewish Ghetto tour alongside your guide, who’ll introduce you to its history and the lifestyle of its inhabitants. Then, stop at a gondola workshop in Dorsoduro.
Combining the best of the popular and the secret, the tour ends in the iconic Grand Canal. You’ll float beneath the Rialto Bridge and admire the popular landmarks on both sides of the water.
With limited group sizes, it offers a personalized and utterly enjoyable experience.
This Venice Canal tour includes: A guide, a boat tour, and stops at the Jewish Ghetto and at a Gondola Workshop. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Explore Venice’s must-see attractions with this Venice 4hrs Tour: St Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace and Walk. Skip the long lines and delve into the gilded Doge’s Palace led by a knowledgeable guide.
Cross the Bridge of Sighs, and discover the secrets of the Venetian Republic’s rulers as you explore its rooms and courtyard. Next, head to St. Mark’s Basilica, where golden domes and intricate mosaics await.
A walking tour of the city will also take you to other hidden attractions such as San Zaccaria Church and Campo Santa Maria Formosa. With two best-selling tours combined in one at a discounted price, this is the perfect way to experience Venice’s wonders.
This tour includes: A guide, skip-the-line access to St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace, and a walking tour. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
➤ Looking for more exclusive adventures? I’ve written an entire post about the best Venice private tours. Check it out!
Food Tour in Venice
I’ve written a whole post about food tours in Venice, but here’s the very best one.
This Experience Venice Like A Local: Small Group Cicchetti & Wine Tour will delight foodie visitors. Alongside a Venetian guide, you’ll get to explore the city’s hidden culinary gems.
Venture into charming enotecas to sip on regional wines, including the sparkling Prosecco and a glass of Venetian Spritz. The drinks will be perfectly paired with typical cicchetti.
Make your way to the neighborhoods of Cannaregio and San Polo and uncover the Venice’s rich history, marveling at its architectural wonders.
Enjoy the ambiance as you go from bar to bar, and then hop on a classic traghetto ferry to glide across the Grand Canal. This adventure covers everything from historic watering holes to bohemian-style bars.
This tour includes: A local guide, all food and drink tastings, a ferry ride, and a walking tour. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Wine Tasting in Venice
Indulge your senses in a Venetian adventure like no other on this Eat, drink and repeat: Wine tasting tour in Venice. Sip your way through six exquisite labels at local bars and enotecas paired with delectable food.
As you explore different neighborhoods, listen to captivating stories from your guide. Escape the touristy spots and uncover the city’s hidden gastronomic treasures.
This tour is a flavor-packed journey through Venice’s best wines and cuisine!
This tour includes: A guide, and all wine tastings with food pairings. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Other Venice Boat Tours
Gondolas are not the only way to move around the city! What about some other types of boat tours in Venice? These are our favorites.
▶️ Join this Venice: Grand Canal Boat Tour to cruise along the city’s most important waterway in style. Hop aboard a motorboat and glide down the canal, passing by Patrician homes, majestic palaces, and historic churches.
You’ll get to admire the Rialto Bridge from up close and stop at several major landmarks along the way.
Experience the grandeur of Ca’ Pisani Moretta and the cultural hub of Fondaco dei Tedeschi as you zip past them. Finish off with a view of the magnificent Santa Maria della Salute church.
This tour includes: Boat tour and a hostess. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ What about an enchanting Venetian Lagoon Tour and Galleon Dinner in Venice? Savor the chef’s delectable creations while gazing at the mesmerizing city lights reflecting on the water.
Pass by scenic islands like Sant’Erasmo, Burano, and Murano, and admire the sights of Venice’s waterfront at night. All the while you’ll enjoy fine dining with delicious Italian wines.
This Venice night tour includes: A cruise, dinner, wine pairings, a glass of Prosecco, and coffee. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Cooking Class in Venice
Looking to get your hands in the dough and learn to cook Venetian specialties? I’ve written a whole post with the best cooking classes in Venice, so you can check it out for more options!
Discover the taste of Venetian cuisine with this Traditional Home Cooking Experience in Venice.
This 3-hour cooking class, led by a local chef, will teach you the art of crafting pasta fresca from scratch. You’ll also bake seasonal fruits and vegetables, and make tiramisu.
After all the dishes are prepared, savor your creations paired with local wines in the cozy ambiance of your host’s private home.
A genuine culinary escapade perfect for friends, families, and team-building fun. Get ready to wow your taste buds and take home delicious recipes!
This tour includes: A cooking class with all ingredients, a 3-course meal, wine pairings, and recipes. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Venice Ghost Tour
Explore the mysterious side of the floating city on a Venice: 2-Hour Legends and Ghosts of Cannaregio Tour. As soon as twilight falls, get out on the streets for a guided walking tour of one of the spookiest neighborhoods in the city.
Hear eerie stories about ghost apparitions as you walk through secret streets that are rarely visited by tourists. A guide will provide all the legends and anecdotes needed to give you a spine-thrilling feeling and introduce you to the haunting face of Venice.
This tour includes: A ghost walking tour, a guide, and headsets. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
For more options, check out these other Venice ghost tours.
Prosecco Wine Tours from Venice
▶️ This Venice: Prosecco Wine Tasting Tour offers a journey to the heart of Veneto, where the world’s favorite sparkling wine is produced.
Delve into the history of Prosecco in the Conegliano Valdobbiadene region, with a visit to two charming wineries. Learn all about the production of Prosecco wine, and enjoy tastings of the bubbly drink at both locations.
One of the tasting sessions will be paired with a delectable lunch featuring local delicacies amidst vineyard-laden landscapes.
This Prosecco tour from Venice includes: Transfers, a guide, two winery visits, Prosecco tasting, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ Wine lovers will appreciate this Private Tour: Prosecco Wine Tasting Day Trip with Lunch from Venice. Discover the secrets of centuries-old winemaking in the Veneto region with an expert sommelier.
You’ll explore the picturesque countryside adorned with rolling vineyards and visit two historic wineries. Tour the cellars, and sip on the finest sparkling Prosecco varieties while learning about the making process, from grape to glass.
Finally, stop at a trattoria for a 2-course lunch paired with wine.
This tour includes: Roundtrip transfers, a private guide, winery visits, Prosecco wine tasting, and lunch. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Dolomites Tour from Venice
Spend A day among the most beautiful mountains in the world, the Dolomites and Lake Braies with this unique full-day tour from Venice.
You’ll be driven through the breathtaking scenery of peaks, crystalline lakes, and enchanting towns on your way to the “Queen of the Dolomites”: Cortina d’Ampezzo.
Then, indulge in a leisurely stroll along the banks of Lake Misurina before heading to the awe-inspiring Tre Cime di Lavaredo peaks.
This small group tour offers convenient round-trip transportation and ample time to explore on your own.
This tour includes: Roundtrip transfers, and free time in each location. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
A Family-Friendly Tour of Venice
Looking for a Venetian adventure you can enjoy with your kids? Look no further than The Best of Venice: Family-Friendly Private Tour. You’ll be led by a local guide, an expert at providing informative insights while keeping children entertained.
Your group of 15 will embark on a treasure hunt across the city, savoring delightful treats along the way. Explore Marco Polo’s house, the unique Libreria Acqua Alta bookshop, and the intricate alleyways of the city.
All the while you’ll be playing games and quizzes related to Venice!
This tour includes: A guide, a treasure hunt, games, and a pastry tasting. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
A Carnival Mask Workshop
A day of artistry and tradition awaits in this Venice: Carnival Mask Workshop. A seasoned instructor will teach you the age-old craft of paper mâché mask decoration. Then, go through the steps of creating your very own Carnival mask.
As you work on your masterpiece, unravel the captivating history of Venetian masks and the various Carnival rituals.
The best part? You get to keep your creation as a memento of this fun experience, which is fabulous for both grown-ups and children.
For an extra touch of magic, opt for the glassmaking upgrade and delve into the world of master glass artisans.
This tour includes: A Venetian mask workshop with all supplies, and your creation as a souvenir. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Murano Glass Artwork Workshop
Let the magic of glass come alive in your hands with this 90-minute Create your Glass Artwork: Private Lesson with Local Artisan in Venice.
Craft dazzling glass masterpieces under the expert guidance of a professional, Massimiliano Caldarone. Discover the age-old techniques of Murano glassmaking, and learn to create your very own.
Take home your amazing glass artwork, and enjoy a 10% discount on the artist’s work. The class is for up to 2 people, so it’s an ideal activity for couples.
This tour includes: A private glass-making lesson, all materials, your glass creation, and a 10% discount on the artist’s artwork. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
