Private Tour(120 tours)
Small group(5 tours)
Transfer(13 tours)
Package tour(2 tours)
Private tour of Venice to explore Venice’s iconic landmarks with a private art historian guide, skip-the-line access, and optional gondola ride or water taxi
Visit the must-see sites of Venice in the most efficient way- Discover the magnificent Basilica of Saint Mark
- Immerse yourself in the stunning art of the Doge Palace
- Capture life-lasting memories with the most amazing photos
- See Rialto Bridge, Sighs Bridge and much more
- Private friendly guide included
- Skip-the-line tickets to St. Mark’s Basilica
- Skip-the-line tickets to the Doge’s Palace
- Entrance to the Scuola Grande di San Rocco
- Assistance to add a private gondola ride (optional)
- Itinerary may be customized to suit your needs
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Description:
Experience the very best of Venice on this private walking tour that combines the city’s most iconic landmarks with expert storytelling and skip-the-line access.
Designed as the ideal first-time introduction to Venice, this full-day guided experience takes you inside St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace, two UNESCO-listed masterpieces that define the city’s history, art, and power.
Led by a licensed art historian, you’ll uncover the stories behind Venice’s golden mosaics, Gothic palaces, and legendary bridges while exploring St. Mark’s Square, the Rialto area, and the authentic neighborhoods that give the city its soul. This private Venice tour offers a seamless blend of must-see highlights, cultural depth, and personalized attention—perfect for travelers who want to understand Venice, not just see it.
Itinerary – What to Expect
St. Mark’s Basilica – The Golden Heart of Venice
Your private Venice walking tour begins inside the magnificent Basilica of Saint Mark, the most important church in the city and one of the finest examples of Byzantine architecture in Western Europe. Originally built in 828 and rebuilt in 978 after being destroyed by fire during a rebellion, the basilica tells the story of Venice’s rise as a maritime and cultural power. As you admire the breathtaking mosaics made of gold, bronze, and precious stones, your guide will explain why this extraordinary church is known as the Chiesa d’Oro, the Golden Church. Understanding St. Mark’s Basilica also means understanding the origins, wealth, and identity of Venice itself.
Doge’s Palace & the Bridge of Sighs – Power, Justice, and Intrigue
The tour continues inside the Doge’s Palace, a masterpiece of Venetian Gothic architecture and once the seat of one of the longest-lasting governments in history. You’ll visit the sumptuous apartments of the Doges, rulers of the Venetian Republic, and admire extraordinary works by Tintoretto and Veronese. Walking through these halls brings Venice’s political power to life. The visit culminates at the famous Bridge of Sighs, named for the prisoners who crossed it on their way to the Piombi prison, catching one final glimpse of the outside world.
St. Mark’s Square – Venice’s Grand Stage
Outside the palace, you’ll explore St. Mark’s Square, the most important square in Venice and the only one officially called piazza. Surrounded by monumental buildings, the square has been the city’s ceremonial center for centuries. Your guide will point out the Clock Tower (Torre dell’Orologio), completed in 1499, the Procuratie Vecchie, once home to high officials of the Republic, the imposing St. Mark’s Bell Tower, and historic cafés, including the legendary Caffè Florian, welcoming guests since 1720.
Lunch Break – Taste Venice Like a Local
After the first part of the tour, there will be time for a relaxed lunch break. Your guide will suggest excellent local restaurants and bacari where you can enjoy authentic Venetian cuisine, cicchetti, and regional specialties away from tourist traps.
Scuola Grande di San Rocco – The Venetian Sistine Chapel
Following lunch, a walk through narrow, lively streets leads you to the Scuola Grande di San Rocco, founded in 1478. Inside, you’ll encounter one of the most impressive artistic cycles in Venice: Tintoretto’s powerful paintings depicting scenes from the Old and New Testament. Due to its artistic importance and emotional impact, the Scuola di San Rocco is often referred to as the Venetian Sistine Chapel. Your guide will help you read these dramatic works and appreciate their symbolism and innovation.
Rialto Bridge & Fish Market – Venice at Work
The tour continues to the iconic Rialto Bridge, the most famous of Venice’s hundreds of bridges. Designed by Antonio da Ponte and chosen over proposals by masters such as Michelangelo, Palladio, and Sansovino, the bridge offers stunning views over the Grand Canal, Venice’s main waterway. Crossing the bridge, you’ll reach the vibrant Rialto Fish Market, where Venetians have bought fresh seafood for centuries. This lively area marks the end of the walking tour and offers a glimpse into everyday Venetian life.
Optional Private Gondola Ride
If you wish, you can add a private 30-minute gondola ride at the end of the tour. Your guide will escort you to the gondola boarding point, where you’ll enjoy an exclusive ride just for your party. Starting on the Grand Canal and continuing through quieter, intimate canals, this experience allows you to admire Venice from its most romantic perspective. The gondola ride can be added directly from the options menu in the reservation box.
Optional Private Water Taxi Experience
To experience Venice from its most iconic perspective, you can add an optional one-hour private water taxi ride. This exclusive experience allows you to admire the beauty of Venice from the water, cruising along the Grand Canal and passing some of the city’s most famous landmarks, including Santa Maria della Salute, Punta della Dogana, the Doge’s Palace, and the Rialto Bridge from below. Away from the crowds, this is an unforgettable way to see Venice, offering incredible photo opportunities, a relaxed pace, and a sense of exclusivity. It’s deeply romantic for couples and exciting and memorable for families, giving everyone a new perspective on the city.
Why Choose This Tour
- Private experience with a licensed art historian guide
- Skip-the-line access to St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace
- Perfect balance of major highlights and authentic local areas
- Flexible pace and personalized explanations
- Ideal first-time introduction to Venice’s history, art, and culture
Who Is This Tour For
- First-time visitors who want to see Venice’s must-see landmarks
- Art and history lovers seeking deeper insight
- Couples, families, and small groups looking for a private experience
- Travelers who want a well-structured yet relaxed walking tour
- Visitors interested in adding a private gondola ride
Book Your Private Venice Tour
Experience Venice with a knowledgeable local guide and discover the stories behind its most iconic landmarks. Book your private Venice walking tour online or contact us to customize the itinerary, add experiences, or adjust the schedule to your needs.
FAQs – Full-day Venice Private Tour
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately seven hours, including a lunch break and optional gondola ride.
Is this tour family-friendly?
Yes, the tour is suitable for families. The guide can adapt explanations for children.
Is the tour accessible?
Venice has many bridges and uneven surfaces. Please contact us in advance so we can assess accessibility options.
Are entrance tickets included?
Yes, skip-the-line tickets for St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, and the Scuola Grande di San Rocco are included.
Can I add a gondola ride?
Yes, a private gondola ride or a private water taxi experience, can be added during booking.
What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Modest clothing is required to enter churches.
Does the tour run in bad weather?
Yes, the tour runs rain or shine. In case of extreme conditions, we will contact you.
Included:
- Private guide officially licensed
- Skip the line tickets at Doge Palace and Saint Mark Basilica
Not included:
- Transportation
- Lunch
- Gondola ride (optional)
Languages:
Italian, English, French, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Mandarin, Russian, Polish
Meeting point:
At your hotel (if conveniently located) or near Saint Mark. Detailed intructions and map will be emailed.
Duration:
6 Hours
Dress code:
Comfortable walking shoes recommended
Options:
Private gondola ride
Alternative tours:
If you prefer a shorter tour see our Venice Essential:
