Walking tours through Venice’s maze-like streets remain the smartest way to experience this unique city. Local guides make sense of Venice’s complex history while leading small groups to must-see spots like St. Mark’s Basilica and hidden neighborhood churches. The best tours keep groups intimate (usually 8-12 people) and last about 3 hours. My favorites focus on either food adventures through authentic bacari wine bars or comprehensive city walks combining major sights with off-the-beaten-path corners. Skip the big bus groups – these walking tours let you experience Venice like a temporary local. Let’s check out the most worthwhile tours available today.
Key Points
- Highly recommended “Eat Like a Local” food tour with 93% rating, offering personalized attention and dietary accommodations.
- Well-reviewed “Venice: Religion Walking Tour” showcasing Byzantine artistry and political history at Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica.
- Highly rated “Venice Walking Tour and Gondola Ride Combo” providing a comprehensive sightseeing experience at great value.
- Small group sizes, ranging from 10 to 15 travelers, for enhanced interaction and personalized attention from knowledgeable multilingual guides.
- Versatile tour options, including accessibility features and insider tips, catering to diverse traveler preferences and interests.
Eat Like a Local: 3-hour Venice Small-Group Food Tasting Walking Tour
For those craving an authentic taste of Venetian cuisine, the “Eat Like a Local: 3-hour Venice Small-Group Food Tasting Walking Tour” delivers an immersive culinary experience.
The tour boasts a 93% recommendation rate from over 2,000 reviews, and a Badge of Excellence. Guests can expect to savor fresh seafood, homemade gelato, traditional cookies, and regional wines at eight stops, including one of the oldest bars in Venice.
With a maximum group size of 15, the tour provides personalized attention from knowledgeable local guides.
Accessibility, flexible cancellation, and dietary accommodations make this 3-hour experience an ideal way to discover Venice’s vibrant food culture.
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Venice: Religion Walking Tour With Doge’S Palace Tickets
Amid Venice’s captivating canals and historic architecture, the “Venice: Religion Walking Tour with Doge’s Palace Tickets” offers an immersive exploration of the city’s rich religious heritage.
For $100.01 per person, this 135-minute tour takes visitors through the iconic Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica, showcasing the city’s Byzantine artistry and political history.
With skip-the-line access and a professional multilingual guide, participants can admire the stunning gold mosaics, marble inlays, and the Bridge of Sighs without the hassle of long queues.
The tour includes entrance to the Pala d’Oro and audio receivers for an enhanced experience, making it a must-do for those seeking to explore Venice’s religious and cultural legacy.
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Venice Sightseeing Walking Tour With a Local Guide
Immersing visitors in the captivating essence of Venice, the Venice Sightseeing Walking Tour with a Local Guide offers an enriching exploration of the city’s hidden gems and historical landmarks.
With a 93% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, the tour immerses guests in the maritime history and significant sites of Venice, including the Rialto Bridge, Marco Polo House, and St. Mark’s Square.
Led by knowledgeable local guides, the 2-hour experience navigates pedestrian streets and historical districts, providing insider tips and recommendations for dining and activities.
Whether opting for a small-group or private tour, travelers can expect insightful commentary and the chance to discover Venice’s charm through the eyes of a local.
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Venice Walking Tour and Gondola Ride Combo
Embarking on an immersive exploration of Venice’s iconic landmarks and hidden waterways, the Venice Walking Tour and Gondola Ride Combo provides travelers with a comprehensive introduction to the city’s rich history and enchanting ambiance.
Priced from $67.38 per person, the 3-hour experience includes a 1.5-hour walking tour and a 30-minute gondola ride. Guests can explore the Mercerie’s narrow streets, admire the façades of the Basilica della Salute and La Fenice Opera House, and visit the former home of Marco Polo.
The tour is available in multiple languages, and guests can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. With high ratings for knowledgeable guides and great value, this tour offers an unforgettable way to discover Venice.
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Venice Private Food Walking Tour With Locals: 6 or 10 Tastings
This private food tour in Venice promises an immersive culinary experience that showcases the city’s authentic local cuisine and culture.
With options for 6 or 10 high-quality tastings, as well as vegetarian alternatives, the tour offers a sustainable, carbon-neutral experience.
Guided by a knowledgeable local foodie, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the city’s history and dining customs while visiting hidden eateries.
The personalized tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as entrance to attractions.
With a 94% recommendation rate and overwhelmingly positive reviews, this tour provides an excellent way to explore Venice’s gastronomic delights.
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Venice Walk & Gondola Ride: Rialto to Grand Canal
Amidst the captivating cityscape of Venice, travelers embark on a captivating journey that seamlessly blends a guided walking tour with a serene gondola ride.
This 2-hour experience explores the iconic Rialto Bridge, the splendor of Doges Palace, and hidden gems like the Scala del Bovolo.
Led by an expert English-speaking guide, guests will enjoy Venice’s rich history, architecture, and culture.
The tour culminates in a scenic gondola ride through the city’s narrow canals and the Grand Canal, offering a unique perspective of this enchanting destination.
Priced at $102.01 per person, this tour is a must-do for any visitor to Venice, though it’s not suitable for wheelchair users.
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Venice 4 Hrs Tour : St Marks Basilica, Doges Palace and Walk
Travelers can discover the grandeur of Venice’s most iconic landmarks on the 4-hour Venice 4 Hrs Tour: St Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace, and Walk.
With skip-the-line access, guests explore the Gothic Doge’s Palace and admire the golden mosaics of St. Mark’s Basilica.
After a lunch break, the tour continues through Venice’s hidden gems, including the San Zaccaria Church and Campo Santa Maria Formosa.
With a small group size and professional English-speaking guides, this tour provides an in-depth look at Venice’s rich history and culture.
The 94% recommendation rate and over 230 positive reviews suggest this is an excellent option for visitors seeking an immersive Venetian experience.
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Venice: Grand Canal Gondola Ride and Walking Tour
Visitors to Venice can embark on a captivating 3-hour tour that combines a guided walking exploration of the city’s historical center with a tranquil gondola ride along the Grand Canal.
Priced from $62.64 per person, this experience includes a professional guide, a 30-minute shared gondola ride, and audio commentary.
The walking portion visits iconic landmarks like Campo Manin, Teatro La Fenice, and San Moisè Church.
Following the tour, guests enjoy a relaxing gondola ride, passing under the Bridge of Sighs and greeting San Giorgio Island.
With a 3.9/5 rating based on 140 reviews, this tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Venice’s rich history and unique waterways.
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Verona City Sightseeing Walking Tour of Must-See Sites With Local Guide
A vibrant and engaging Verona City Sightseeing Walking Tour takes visitors on a journey through the historic heart of this captivating Italian city.
Led by knowledgeable local guides, the 1-hour 45-minute tour explores the city’s must-see landmarks, including one of Italy’s largest amphitheaters and the balcony that inspired Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet.
With a maximum group size of 10 travelers, the tour offers personalized attention and ample opportunities to ask questions and learn trivia.
Highly recommended for first-time visitors and history enthusiasts, the tour earns a 4.7-star rating based on over 123 positive reviews.
Wheelchair accessible and stroller friendly, the tour is an excellent way to discover Verona’s rich history and iconic sights.
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Venice: Skip-the-Line Doge’s Palace & Basilica Walking Tour
This guided walking tour of Venice takes visitors on a captivating journey through the city’s historic Doge’s Palace and the iconic St. Mark’s Basilica.
At just $108.43 per person, the 2-hour tour offers exceptional value, with skip-the-line access to both attractions.
Along the way, guests will explore the palace’s intrigues and lies, admire the basilica’s Byzantine architecture and golden mosaics, and gain exclusive access to the first-floor museum.
The tour is available in multiple languages and features an expert guide, personal audio system, and the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
With a 4.6/5 rating based on 294 reviews, this is a must-do experience for visitors to Venice.
Read our full review: Venice: Skip-the-Line Doge’s Palace & Basilica Walking Tour Review
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Unusual Venice Walking Tour
For those seeking a more off-the-beaten-path experience in Venice, the Unusual Venice Walking Tour offers a captivating alternative. This 2-hour shared tour takes visitors to hidden gems like Campo Santa Maria Formosa, Rialto Bridge, and Marco Polo’s House, along with the iconic St. Mark’s Square.
With a maximum group size of 15, the tour provides an intimate and engaging exploration of Venice’s lesser-known sights. While the tour is generally praised for its informative guides and interesting stops, some guests have reported issues with language and audio quality during the bilingual experience.
Plus, a few have felt the tour content or duration didn’t fully align with their expectations. The Unusual Venice Walking Tour promises a unique perspective on the city.
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Venice Gems: Campo SantAngelo Walk & Gondola Ride
Explore Venice’s hidden gems and enjoy a classic gondola ride with the Venice Gems: Campo SantAngelo Walk & Gondola Ride tour.
This 2-hour experience takes you through the city’s charming backstreets, starting at Piazza San Marco. Key highlights include the Rialto Bridge, Scala del Bovolo, and the opulent Teatro La Fenice.
Admire the architectural wonders as your guide provides engaging historical insights. The tour culminates in a relaxing gondola ride on the Grand Canal, offering a unique perspective of Venice’s grand palaces and buildings.
Priced from $102.01 per person, the tour provides free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and allows you to reserve your spot without upfront payment.
Recommended for first-time visitors seeking an immersive Venetian adventure.
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Off the Beaten Path Walk in Venice
Travelers seeking a more authentic glimpse of Venice venture off the beaten path for the Off the Beaten Path Walk in Venice tour. This highly-rated 5.0-star experience takes guests through the city’s lesser-known, quieter areas, led by knowledgeable licensed guides.
With a maximum group size of 10, the tour offers personalized interaction and an adaptable itinerary catered to travelers’ interests. The walking route begins at Campiello dei Squelini, ending at the Punta della Dogana – Pinault Collection.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and allows service animals. Priced from $74.04 per person, the Off the Beaten Path Walk in Venice provides an immersive, exclusive glimpse into the city’s authentic charm.
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Venice: St Marks Square Walking Tour & Gondola Ride
Those seeking a more comprehensive Venice experience can embark on the Venice: St Mark’s Square Walking Tour & Gondola Ride.
This 3-hour activity promises a memorable exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks, including St. Mark’s Square, Marco Polo’s house, and the Basilica di San Giovanni e Paolo.
The tour also includes a 30-minute shared gondola ride, allowing participants to glide through the city’s enchanting canals while enjoying live commentary and views of the San Giorgio Island.
With a small group size, free cancellation, and no upfront payment required, this tour offers a convenient and flexible way to discover the highlights of Venice.
Customers have rated the overall experience 4.2 out of 5, praising the guide and transportation services.
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In the Footsteps of Commissario Brunetti by Donna Leon Walking Tour
Bookworms and crime fiction enthusiasts can embark on a captivating walking tour that takes them into the world of Donna Leon’s Commissario Brunetti mystery series.
The “In the Footsteps of Commissario Brunetti” tour explores iconic locations from the beloved crime novels, including the “questura” or police headquarters.
Travelers can discover quieter neighborhoods like the Ghetto and Cannaregio while learning facts and trivia about the author and her works.
With a maximum group size of 10, the tour provides an intimate and immersive experience.
Highly rated with a 5.0 review average and 100% recommendation rate, this walking tour is a must for anyone seeking to uncover the literary side of Venice.
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Venice: St. Marks Basilica and Walking Tour Combo
For those eager to explore the captivating Byzantine history of Venice, the “Venice: St. Marks Basilica and Walking Tour Combo” is a must-try experience.
Priced at $70.53 per person, this 4-hour tour offers skip-the-line access to St. Mark’s Basilica and a guided walking tour of lesser-known streets. Participants can discover landmarks like Campo Santa Maria Formosa and Malibran Theatre, as well as access St. Mark’s Museum and terrace.
While wheelchair access may be limited, the tour is available in multiple languages and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
With an overall rating of 3.4/5, the tour provides a balanced blend of history, architecture, and city exploration.
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Venice Walking Tour of Most-Famous Sites Monuments & Attractions With Top Guide
This 2-hour walking tour of Venice allows visitors to explore the city’s most famous sites, monuments, and attractions with a top-rated guide.
The small group or private tour departs from Dorsoduro and ends in Piazza San Marco, covering landmarks like Rialto Bridge and Marco Polo’s home.
With a maximum of 15 travelers, the tour provides an intimate experience and personalized attention from the knowledgeable local guides.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and welcomes service animals.
While food and drinks aren’t included, the low price starting from $37.56 per person makes it an affordable and enjoyable way to discover Venice’s rich history and hidden gems.
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Venice: Medieval Guided Walking Tour & History Gallery Visit
Travelers seeking to explore Venice’s captivating medieval heritage can embark on a guided walking tour that promises an immersive exploration of the city’s historic landmarks and hidden gems.
Priced at $28.42 per person, the 2-3 hour experience takes visitors through narrow streets and campi, offering insights into the city’s rich history.
Highlights include visiting the Remedio Bridge for views of the iconic Bridge of Sighs and an optional gondola ride.
The tour also features a virtual reality experience showcasing medieval Venice and its renowned 18th-century Carnival.
With an average rating of 4.2/5 from 466 reviews, this walking tour offers excellent value and an engaging look into Venice’s storied past.
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Venice in 1 Day: St Marks Basilica, Walking & Boat Tour
Visitors with limited time in Venice can embark on a comprehensive 3-hour tour that showcases the city’s iconic landmarks and provides an immersive glimpse into its rich history.
The “Venice in 1 Day: St Marks Basilica, Walking & Boat Tour” offers a guided walking tour, skip-the-line access to St. Mark’s Basilica, and a scenic boat ride along the Grand Canal.
With a maximum group size of 16, travelers can enjoy a personalized experience led by a knowledgeable English-speaking guide.
The tour covers key attractions like St. Mark’s Square, Rialto Bridge, and Marco Polo’s House, while also allowing time to admire the stunning mosaics and architecture inside St. Mark’s Basilica.
The boat tour then provides a unique perspective of Venice’s iconic waterways.
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Venice: Express Walk With a Local in 90 Minutes
For travelers seeking a quick yet immersive introduction to the city’s highlights, the “Venice: Express Walk With a Local in 90 Minutes” tour offers an efficient way to experience the city’s iconic landmarks and charming ambiance.
Priced from $83.17 per person, the 1.5-hour tour is limited to 8 participants and led by a local guide in English or Italian. Guests will explore St. Mark’s Basilica, the Rialto Bridge, and enchanting canals, while receiving insider tips on the best bars, cafes, and restaurants.
The tour features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a pay-later option, providing flexibility for travelers. Comfortable shoes and a charged smartphone are recommended for this immersive Venetian experience.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Get to the Starting Point of the Walking Tour?
To get to the starting point of the walking tour, you’ll need to check the tour’s details. Many tours provide directions or meeting points, so you can plan your route in advance. Arrive early to ensure you don’t miss the start.
What Should I Bring on the Walking Tour?
When going on a walking tour, it’s best to bring comfortable walking shoes, water, snacks, sun protection, and a camera to capture the sights. Dress in layers for changing weather conditions, and bring a map or GPS if needed.
How Long Are the Walking Tours, on Average?
Walking tours in Venice typically last 2-3 hours, though some may be longer. The duration depends on the specific tour, the guide’s pace, and the distance covered. Most tours aim to provide a rundown within a reasonable timeframe for participants.
Are the Walking Tours Wheelchair/Stroller Accessible?
The accessibility of the walking tours varies. Some are wheelchair and stroller-friendly, while others may have uneven terrain or steps that make them less accessible. Tourists should check with the tour operator to ensure the tour meets their mobility needs.
Do the Walking Tours Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?
Many walking tour providers accommodate dietary restrictions, such as vegetarian or gluten-free options. Guests should inquire about specific dietary needs when booking to ensure the tour can meet their requirements comfortably.
Recap
Venice offers a variety of engaging walking tours that provide visitors with the opportunity to explore the city’s rich history, culture, and cuisine. From food tastings to religious sites and iconic landmarks, these tours cater to diverse interests and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a rundown or a more focused experience, Venice’s walking tours promise an unforgettable immersion in the city’s captivating charm.