Venice: St Marks Highlights Lunch & Gondola

Venice’s "St. Marks Highlights Lunch & Gondola" tour offers a captivating glimpse into the city’s rich history and enchanting charm. From exploring the grandeur of St. Mark’s Basilica to indulging in a traditional Venetian lunch, this guided experience promises to immerse visitors in the very essence of this remarkable destination. With a serene gondola ride along the city’s picturesque canals rounding out the itinerary, travelers can expect an unforgettable journey that effortlessly blends iconic sights, authentic cuisine, and the timeless allure of Venice. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, this tour presents an opportunity to uncover the hidden gems that make this city so captivating.

This experience made our list of the 17 Best Lunch Experiences In Venice.

Key Points

• Guided tour of St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace, including insights into their history, architecture, and cultural significance.
• 1.5-hour lunch at a traditional Venetian restaurant, offering an authentic culinary experience.
• 30-minute gondola ride through the iconic canals, providing a unique perspective of Venice’s waterways.
• Comprehensive 5-hour tour with meeting point at Calle larga de l’Ascension and dress code requirements.
• Free cancellations up to 24 hours before the tour, ensuring flexibility for the traveler.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

According to the information provided, this 5-hour guided tour of St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace in Venice costs from Kč5,260 per person.

The tour includes a one-hour guided visit of the iconic St. Mark’s Basilica, a 75-minute guided tour of the Doge’s Palace, and a 30-minute gondola ride. Lunch at a typical Venetian restaurant is also part of the experience.

The tour starts and ends at Calle larga de l’Ascension, and participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes and avoid shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless shirts.

Bookings can be made with no upfront payment, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the tour.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins at Calle larga de l’Ascension, where you will embark on a guided exploration of St. Mark’s Basilica, the iconic "golden church" dating back to the 11th century.

Over the next hour, they’ll marvel at the Byzantine architecture and glittering mosaics that adorn the interior.

Next, the group will visit the Doge’s Palace, the political heart of the Venetian government, for a 75-minute guided tour.

Following this, they’ll enjoy a 1.5-hour lunch at a traditional Venetian restaurant, Noemi, near St. Mark’s Square, where they can savor local cuisine.

The experience culminates with a 30-minute gondola ride through Venice’s enchanting canals.

Explore St. Mark’s Basilica

Visitors begin their exploration of St. Mark’s Basilica, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture dating back to the 11th century.

The guided tour takes them through the cathedral’s opulent interior, where they’ll admire the stunning golden mosaics covering the walls and ceilings.

They’ll learn about the basilica’s history and significance as the spiritual heart of the Venetian Republic.

The tour also provides insights into the intricate craftsmanship and symbolism behind the basilica’s design.

As they wander through the serene and awe-inspiring space, visitors gain a deeper appreciation for the artistic and cultural heritage of this iconic Venetian landmark.

Visit the Doge’s Palace

After exploring the magnificent St. Mark’s Basilica, the next stop on the tour is the iconic Doge’s Palace. This former residence of the Venetian ruler stands as a testament to the city’s political might and artistic prowess. Visitors will be captivated by the palace’s ornate Gothic architecture, its lavish interiors, and the rich history that permeates every corner.

Feature	Description
Architecture	Gothic style with intricate carvings and opulent decorations
Interiors	Sumptuously decorated rooms, including the impressive Sala del Maggior Consiglio
History	Served as the seat of the Venetian government and the official residence of the Doge

The guided tour of the Doge’s Palace promises to be a highlight of the day, offering a glimpse into Venice’s illustrious past.

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Gondola Ride Experience

Capping off the captivating tour of St. Mark’s Basilica and the opulent Doge’s Palace, the gondola ride offers a quintessential Venetian experience.

This 30-minute journey along the iconic canals provides a unique perspective of the city’s stunning architecture and picturesque waterways.

Gliding effortlessly through the tranquil waters, guests will be immersed in the serene ambiance and romantic atmosphere that Venice is renowned for.

The skilled gondolier expertly navigates the narrow passages, allowing travelers to sit back and soak in the enchanting sights and sounds.

This enchanting gondola ride completes the comprehensive tour, leaving visitors with cherished memories of their Venetian adventure.

Lunch at Venetian Restaurant

The tour culminates with a 1.5-hour lunch at the traditional Venetian restaurant Noemi, located near St. Mark’s Square.

Guests can savor authentic Venetian cuisine, including locally-sourced seafood and pasta dishes. Drinks are to be paid separately at the restaurant.

The lunch provides a chance to take in Venetian culture, enjoying the ambiance and flavors of the city.

After the meal, the tour continues with a relaxing 30-minute gondola ride through the iconic canals, completing the quintessential Venetian experience.

The lunch offers a rejuvenating break, allowing visitors to refuel before the final leg of the tour.

Meeting Point and Logistics

The meeting point for the tour is at the wooden souvenir kiosk next to the entrance to the post office, marked with a TURIVE sign.

Participants should wear comfortable shoes and bring a camera and water. The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or people over 275 lbs (125 kg).

Visitors should also note the dress code – no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless shirts are allowed.

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, it’s important for guests to arrive on time and follow the guidelines provided.

With these logistics in mind, travelers can look forward to an immersive exploration of Venice’s iconic landmarks and traditions.

Important Considerations

Along With the meeting point and logistics, there are a few important considerations guests should keep in mind.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those over 275 lbs, so participants should ensure they meet the physical requirements.

Proper attire is also essential, as guests aren’t allowed to wear shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless shirts when visiting St. Mark’s Basilica. Comfortable shoes are recommended, as there’s a fair amount of walking involved.

Bringing a camera is encouraged to capture the stunning Byzantine architecture and scenic gondola ride.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Children Participate in This Tour?

Yes, children can participate in this tour. The tour does not have any age restrictions, and children are welcome to join the guided visits and activities, including the gondola ride.

Is There a Dress Code for the Gondola Ride?

The tour has a dress code that requires participants to wear no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless shirts. While there’s no specific dress code for the gondola ride, it’s best to follow the tour’s overall dress guidelines.

Are Vegetarian/Vegan Options Available for the Lunch?

The tour provider offers vegetarian and vegan options for the lunch. Guests should inform the staff of any dietary requirements when booking the tour so the restaurant can accommodate their needs.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Additional Attractions?

Yes, the tour can be customized to include additional attractions. Travelers can work with the tour operator to add or modify the itinerary based on their interests and preferences within the tour’s duration and pricing.

Is the Tour Guide Available to Answer Questions in Multiple Languages?

The tour guide is available to answer questions in multiple languages, providing a more inclusive and personalized experience for all participants. This allows for better understanding and engagement throughout the tour.

Recap

This tour offers a comprehensive introduction to the highlights of Venice. Visitors can explore the iconic St. Mark’s Basilica, admire the grandeur of the Doge’s Palace, savor a traditional Venetian lunch, and glide through the city’s enchanting canals on a gondola ride. The itinerary is well-paced, providing an immersive and memorable experience for those seeking to discover the beauty and charm of Venice.

You can check if your dates are available here: