Venice in 2 Days Tour Including Gondola Ride and Islands Tour by Private Boat

Discover the enchanting allure of Venice in just two unforgettable days. This private guided tour immerses you in the city’s iconic landmarks, serene waterways, and captivating island communities. Start with a skip-the-line exploration of Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica, followed by a tranquil gondola ride. The next day, venture out to the picturesque islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello, where you’ll uncover the unique cultures and artistry that make this lagoon city so extraordinary. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this comprehensive itinerary promises to leave you with memories that will linger long after your visit.

This experience made our list of the 3 Best 2 Day Tours In Venice.

Quick Points

• This two-day tour offers an immersive experience exploring Venice’s iconic landmarks, including Doge’s Palace, St. Mark’s Basilica, and a gondola ride.
• On the second day, the tour includes a private boat trip to the nearby islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello, showcasing their unique cultures and craftsmanship.
• The tour provides skip-the-line access to major sites, enhancing the visitor experience and allowing for deeper exploration.
• Knowledgeable private guides offer insights into the history, architecture, and cultural significance of the places visited.
• The tour includes private transportation and is suitable for travelers seeking a comprehensive and efficient way to experience the highlights of Venice in two days.

Tour Overview

This two-day Venice tour offers an immersive experience, exploring the city’s iconic landmarks and enchanting lagoon islands.

Led by a private guide, the tour showcases the best of Venice, from the grand Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica to the serene canals via gondola.

Day two takes travelers to the nearby islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello, where they’ll discover unique local cultures and artisanry.

With skip-the-line access and private transportation, the tour ensures an optimized and seamless experience.

Whether it’s your first or fifth time in Venice, this comprehensive package promises to reveal the city’s timeless beauty and charm.

Day 1: Central Venice Exploration

The tour begins with a guided walking exploration of central Venice, giving visitors an immersive introduction to the city’s iconic landmarks and charming alleyways. The group will skip the lines to visit the stunning Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica, marveling at their ornate architecture and rich history. The highlight of the day is a serene gondola ride along the city’s picturesque canals, allowing travelers to soak in the unique atmosphere of this floating city.

Highlights	Duration	Meeting Point
Guided Walking Tour	2-3 hours	Piazza San Marco, next to Lion Pillar
Skip-the-line Access to Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica	1-2 hours	Piazza San Marco, next to Lion Pillar
Gondola Ride	30-45 minutes	Piazza San Marco, next to Lion Pillar
Total Duration	4-6 hours	Piazza San Marco, next to Lion Pillar

Guided Walking Tour

The guided walking tour of central Venice kicks off the two-day adventure, providing visitors with an immersive introduction to the city’s iconic landmarks and captivating alleyways.

Led by a knowledgeable private guide, the tour grants skip-the-line access to the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica, allowing guests to explore these renowned sites without wasting time in lengthy queues.

As the group navigates the charming streets and bridges, they’ll learn about Venice’s rich history and culture, uncovering hidden gems and gaining a deeper appreciation for the city’s unique character.

The walking tour is an essential part of the overall experience, setting the stage for the subsequent lagoon island exploration on the second day.

Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica

A highlight of the central Venice exploration is the skip-the-line access to the iconic Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica.

Touring the Doge’s Palace, visitors can marvel at its ornate Gothic architecture and learn about the history of Venice’s former governing body.

Next, they’ll enter the nearby St. Mark’s Basilica, an impressive Byzantine-style cathedral adorned with golden mosaics.

This exclusive access allows travelers to bypass the typical long queues and fully enjoy these architectural masterpieces.

With an expert guide leading the way, guests gain deeper insights into the significance and cultural legacy of these must-see Venetian landmarks.

Day 2: Lagoon Islands Tour

On the second day, visitors embark on a private boat tour to explore the enchanting lagoon islands surrounding Venice. The tour takes them to the islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello, each offering a unique cultural experience. Visitors discover the centuries-old traditions of Murano’s renowned glass-blowing artisans, marvel at the vibrant, lace-patterned houses of Burano, and visit the historic Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta on Torcello, one of the earliest inhabited centers of the Venetian lagoon.

Island	Highlights
Murano	Glass-blowing demonstrations
Burano	Colorful, lace-patterned houses
Torcello	Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta

This immersive island exploration provides a captivating glimpse into the diverse cultures and craftsmanship that thrive within the Venetian lagoon.

Unique Culture and Craftsmanship

Immersing themselves in the lagoon islands, visitors uncover the unique cultures and time-honored craftsmanship that thrive within these enchanting enclaves.

On Murano, guests witness the centuries-old tradition of glassblowing, as skilled artisans demonstrate their techniques and create intricate, one-of-a-kind pieces.

Across the lagoon on Burano, the island’s vibrant, colorful houses frame the intricate lace-making crafted by local women, whose needlework has been passed down through generations.

Torcello, the oldest continuously inhabited settlement in the Venetian lagoon, offers a glimpse into the region’s Byzantine history, with its ancient cathedral and serene ambiance.

Exploring these islands allows travelers to enjoy the authentic heritage and traditions that have defined the Venetian way of life for centuries.

Inclusions, Logistics, and Additional Information

Though the two-day tour of Venice and its lagoon islands doesn’t include meals or accommodation, it provides a comprehensive and optimized experience for visitors.

The tour includes a gondola ride, local guide, and skip-the-line access to the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica. Transportation is provided by private vehicle and boat, ensuring a seamless and efficient itinerary.

Guests should note that a COVID-19 vaccination card or Green Pass is required for entry to museums and churches. Plus, a small access fee may be charged on certain dates for non-Venice residents.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour, this Venice experience offers flexibility and value for travelers.

Since You Asked

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour’s group size varies, but it’s not specified. The website advises checking for details. Guests can expect a private guide for an optimized experience, regardless of the group size.

Are Child Rates Available for This Tour?

Child rates are available for this tour, but they’re not explicitly mentioned in the overview. Families can likely inquire about discounted pricing for children when booking the tour.

Can I Customize the Itinerary or Add Extra Activities?

Customers can customize the itinerary or add extra activities, but it may incur additional costs. The tour operator is generally flexible and willing to accommodate specific requests to enhance the overall experience.

Are Audio Guides Available During the Walking Tour?

Audio guides aren’t mentioned in the tour details, but the private guide should provide detailed commentary during the walking tour. Travelers can inquire about audio guide availability when booking to enhance their sightseeing experience.

Can I Pay With a Credit Card on Site?

Participants can typically pay with credit cards on-site for the tour’s inclusions, such as the gondola ride and admission tickets. The tour provider’s website or booking process will provide specific payment details.

The Final Verdict

This 2-day Venice tour offers a comprehensive experience, showcasing the city’s iconic landmarks, tranquil waterways, and the unique cultures of the surrounding islands. Travelers will enjoy skip-the-line access to Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica, a relaxing gondola ride, and an exclusive boat trip to Murano, Burano, and Torcello, where they can enjoy Venetian artistry and heritage. It’s an enchanting way to discover the essence of this captivating city in just a short time.