Venice: Secret Venetian Palace & Hidden Corners of Venice

Set out on a captivating journey through the lesser-known corners of the enchanting city of Venice. This exclusive two-hour tour unveils a side of the floating city that few visitors ever witness. Guided by a knowledgeable local, you’ll uncover hidden gems like the historic Marco Polo House, the stunning Malibran Theater, and the breathtaking Scala Del Bovolo, where panoramic vistas await. Wander through charming alleys, marvel at the exquisite Grimani Palace, and learn about the unique culture that makes Venice truly exceptional. Get ready to experience the city’s captivating secrets and make unforgettable memories in this one-of-a-kind destination.

Key Points

• Explore the lesser-known architectural gems of Venice, including the Grimani Palace and the unique spiral Contarini Bovolo Staircase.
• Discover the birthplace of the famous explorer Marco Polo and learn about his legacy through interactive exhibits.
• Experience the rich cultural heritage of Venice by visiting the historic Malibran Theater, known for its impressive Gothic-Renaissance façade.
• Enjoy the charming atmosphere of the Acqua Alta bookstore, featuring boat-shaped bookshelves and four resident cats.
• Enjoy a private guided tour that showcases Venice’s hidden corners and provides insights into the city’s history and architectural evolution.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The "Venice: Secret Venetian Palace & Hidden Corners of Venice" tour provides a 2-hour deep dive into the lesser-known sights of the iconic city.

Priced from £134.60 per person, the private group tour is available in English, French, Italian, and German.

With a flexible cancellation policy and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour offers convenient booking.

Highlights include visits to Marco Polo House, Malibran Theater, Grimani Palace, and the architecturally stunning Scala Del Bovolo.

Guests will also discover the unique Acqua Alta bookstore and its feline residents.

Throughout the experience, travelers can expect an engaging guide and the opportunity to purchase tickets for select attractions.

Tour Highlights

Explore hidden gems of Venice, including Marco Polo House, Malibran Theater (external), Grimani Palace, and the Scala Del Bovolo (external). Visit the Acqua Alta bookstore, known for its unique shelving made from boats and gondolas, and meet its 4 resident cats. Experience the Contarini Bovolo Staircase, an architectural marvel transitioning from Gothic to Renaissance styles, offering stunning views of Venice.

Highlight	Description
Marco Polo House	Birthplace of the famous explorer
Malibran Theater	Exterior of a historic Venetian theater
Grimani Palace	Residence of Doge Antonio Grimani
Scala Del Bovolo	Unique spiral staircase with panoramic views

Itinerary Details

The tour begins at Campo Santa Maria Formosa, a lively campo in Venice.

From there, visitors will wind through the city’s narrow alleys to reach the Acqua Alta bookstore, known for its unique shelving made from boats and gondolas and its four resident cats.

Next, the group will visit Palazzo Grimani, the former residence of Doge Antonio Grimani, to admire its classical art and architecture.

The tour concludes at the Contarini Bovolo Staircase, a striking architectural marvel that transitions from Gothic to Renaissance styles and offers panoramic views of the city.

Inclusions

This tour includes a knowledgeable guide to lead participants through the hidden corners of Venice.

The tour package covers the following:

• Tour guide to provide historical insights and navigate the city’s maze-like streets
• Hotel pick-up to ensure a seamless start to the experience
• Tips for the guide, ensuring they’re adequately compensated for their expertise
• Tickets for entry to Grimani Palace and Scala Del Bovolo, allowing visitors to explore these architectural marvels from the inside, if requested (additional €12.00 per person payable on-site).

These inclusions are designed to deliver a comprehensive and immersive tour of Venice’s lesser-known gems, catering to travelers seeking an authentic and enriching experience.

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Important Information

Participants will find the meeting point at Campo San Bartolomeo, under the statue.

Comfortable shoes are recommended as the tour involves walking through narrow alleys.

Unfortunately, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to the uneven terrain.

Plus, pets, luggage, and large bags aren’t allowed on the tour. This is to ensure the safety and comfort of all participants.

The tour provides an intimate experience, so the group size is kept private.

Discover Marco Polo House

Nestled in the heart of Venice, Marco Polo House stands as a testament to the legendary explorer’s legacy.

As part of the tour, visitors will have the opportunity to uncover the secrets of this historical gem.

The tour explores:

• Polo’s birthplace and childhood home
• Artifacts and memorabilia showcasing his renowned travels
• Architectural details that offer insights into 13th-century Venetian life
• Interactive exhibits that bring Polo’s adventures to life

Through this immersive experience, travelers can walk in the footsteps of one of the most celebrated figures in Venetian history, gaining a deeper appreciation for the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Explore Malibran Theater

As part of the tour, visitors will explore the Malibran Theater, an architectural gem that stands as a testament to Venice’s rich cultural heritage.

Though the theater’s exterior isn’t open for internal visits, guests will admire its impressive façade, which blends Gothic and Renaissance elements.

Commissioned in the 16th century, the Malibran Theater has played a significant role in the city’s performing arts scene, hosting renowned operas and theatrical productions over the centuries.

Today, the theater remains an iconic landmark, offering a glimpse into Venice’s illustrious past and its enduring commitment to the arts.

Climb Contarini Bovolo Staircase

The Contarini Bovolo Staircase is the architectural highlight of the tour, offering visitors a unique vantage point to admire Venice’s enchanting cityscape.

Commissioned by Pietro Contarini in the late 1400s, this staircase seamlessly transitions from Gothic to Renaissance styles, showcasing the city’s rich artistic heritage.

Visitors can climb the spiral staircase and be rewarded with:

• Panoramic views of Venice’s iconic landmarks, including St. Mark’s Square and the Grand Canal
• A close-up examination of the staircase’s intricate carvings and architectural details
• An appreciation for the engineering prowess required to construct such an impressive structure
• A deeper understanding of Venice’s evolution as a center of art, culture, and innovation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Private Tour?

The tour is a private group, so the group size is not strictly limited. However, it is designed for a small, intimate group to explore the hidden gems of Venice comfortably.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

No, according to the important information, pets, luggage, and large bags are not allowed on the tour. The tour itinerary does not mention any provisions for bringing one’s own food and drinks.

Is There an Option for a Self-Guided Tour Instead?

No, there doesn’t appear to be an option for a self-guided tour on this particular excursion. The tour is offered as a private guided group experience, and the itinerary and inclusions do not mention a self-guided option.

Can I Leave the Tour Group at Any Point During the Experience?

Yes, tour participants can leave the group at any point during the experience. The tour is private and flexible, allowing individuals to explore at their own pace or branch off if desired.

Is There a Discount Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour doesn’t offer any discounted rates for students or seniors. The price is a flat rate of £134.60 per person, regardless of age or student status. There are no special discounts available for this private group tour.

Recap

This exclusive 2-hour tour immerses visitors in Venice’s hidden treasures. Guided by a local expert, travelers will uncover the historic Marco Polo House, the stunning Malibran Theater, and ascend the breathtaking Scala Del Bovolo for panoramic views. Wandering through charming alleys and visiting the exquisite Grimani Palace, guests will embrace the unique culture and hidden gems of this captivating city, creating unforgettable memories.

You can check if your dates are available here: