Set out on a captivating journey through the enchanting city of Venice with the "Venice Walk & Gondola Ride: Rialto to Grand Canal" tour. This 2-hour experience blends a guided exploration of iconic landmarks, including the Rialto Bridge and Teatro La Fenice, with a serene gondola ride along the Grand Canal. Enjoy the city’s rich history and breathtaking vistas as you uncover the hidden gems that make Venice a truly remarkable destination. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this tour promises to unveil the essence of the Floating City and leave you eager to discover more.
This experience made our list of the 20 Best Walking Tours In Venice.
Key Points
- This comprehensive experience includes a guided walking tour and a traditional gondola ride, exploring must-see sites like the Rialto Bridge and Teatro La Fenice.
- The 2-hour tour priced at £80.87 per person is led by an expert guide, providing historical insights and cultural stories about Venice’s heritage.
- The tour starts at Piazza San Marco and includes visits to the Scala del Bovolo and Campo Sant’Angelo, showcasing the city’s hidden gems.
- The gondola ride offers a serene journey through the city’s canals, allowing guests to witness the grand palaces along the Grand Canal.
- The tour has a flexible cancellation policy, with a full refund available up to 24 hours in advance, and a meeting point at the Alilaguna Ticket Office in San Marco.
Tour Overview
This tour offers a comprehensive experience exploring the highlights of Venice, combining a guided walking tour through the city’s historic heart and a traditional gondola ride along its iconic waterways.
The tour is priced at £80.87 per person and lasts for 2 hours, with English-language guidance. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Participants should arrive 20 minutes early at the Alilaguna Ticket Office in San Marco to redeem their voucher for a ticket.
The walking tour covers must-see sites like the Rialto Bridge, Scala del Bovolo, and Teatro La Fenice, culminating in a serene gondola ride on the Grand Canal.
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Itinerary Highlights
The tour begins at Piazza San Marco, Venice’s iconic St. Mark’s Square.
From there, you’ll visit the famous Rialto Bridge, with its beautiful arches and bustling markets.
Next, you’ll discover the hidden gem of Scala del Bovolo, a unique spiral staircase with stunning views.
The tour continues through Campo Sant’Angelo, a charming square, before passing by the iconic Teatro La Fenice, Venice’s renowned opera house.
Tour Experience
Participants embark on an immersive walking tour to explore Venice’s hidden gems and lesser-known spots in the city’s heart. Guided by an expert, the tour takes visitors through charming alleyways, across iconic bridges like the Rialto, and past enchanting sites such as the Scala del Bovolo and Teatro La Fenice.
The walking experience provides historical insights and cultural stories, bringing Venice’s rich heritage to life. The highlight, however, is the traditional gondola ride. Gliding through the labyrinthine canals, guests witness grand palaces along the Grand Canal, a serene and unforgettable way to conclude the tour.
Important Information
A maximum of 5 people can be accommodated per gondola, with children under 2 years old able to ride for free if they don’t occupy a seat.
Participants are required to bring their passport or ID card, as no luggage or large bags are allowed.
Due to potential changes in weather, the itinerary may be adjusted, and if the gondola ride is canceled, a refund of €30 per person will be provided.
- Ensure you have your passport or ID card ready for the tour.
- Be mindful of the size of your belongings, as large bags aren’t permitted.
- Be prepared for potential changes in the itinerary due to inclement weather.
Cancellation Policy
According to the cancellation policy, guests have the flexibility to cancel their booking for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This provides travelers with peace of mind and the ability to adjust their plans as needed.
The tour operator understands that unexpected circumstances can arise, so they’ve implemented this cancellation policy to accommodate such situations. As long as guests notify the operator at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled tour, they’ll receive a complete refund with no penalties or fees.
This policy ensures a hassle-free booking experience and allows guests to plan their Venice adventure with confidence.
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Meeting Point
The meeting point for this Venice walking and gondola tour is the Alilaguna Ticket Office in San Marco, located in front of the Royal Gardens.
Travelers are advised to arrive 20 minutes early to convert their voucher into a ticket. This ensures a smooth start to the tour experience.
The key highlights of the meeting point include:
- Convenient location in the heart of Venice, near iconic landmarks like St. Mark’s Square.
- Easy access to the Alilaguna water transportation system, which connects to the city’s canals.
- Ample space for the tour group to gather and receive instructions from the expert guide before embarking on the walking and gondola portion of the tour.
Booking and Flexibility
For this Venice walking and gondola tour, travelers can reserve their spot without making an upfront payment. The tour operator offers convenient WhatsApp communication for delivering the tour voucher. Plus, on certain dates, a €5 access fee may apply for travelers outside of Venice, which can be verified on the official website.
Booking Options | Flexibility | Communication |
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Reserve Now, Pay Later | Weather Policy | WhatsApp Voucher Delivery |
No Upfront Payment | Itinerary Changes | Verify Access Fees |
Secure Your Spot | Refunds for Canceled Gondola | Convenient Messaging |
Access Fee
On certain dates, travelers outside of Venice may need to pay a €5 access fee to join this tour. This fee helps support the city’s efforts to manage visitor flow and preserve its delicate infrastructure. The access fee is checked at the meeting point, so be sure to have your payment ready.
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The fee applies to all participants who don’t reside within Venice. This includes both Venetians and visitors from elsewhere.
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The fee is a per-person charge and is in addition to the tour price.
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Guests can check the details of any applicable access fees at the provided website: https://cda.ve.it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Typical Dress Code for This Tour?
There is no strict dress code for this tour, but visitors are advised to wear comfortable walking shoes and clothing appropriate for the weather. Casual or smart-casual attire is generally suitable for the activity.
Is There a Recommended Age Range for Participants?
There is no specific age range recommended for this tour. Children under 2 years can participate for free if they don’t occupy a seat on the gondola. The tour is suitable for all ages, as long as participants can comfortably complete the walking portion.
Can I Bring Snacks or Drinks on the Gondola Ride?
Snacks and drinks are generally not allowed on the gondola ride. The tour operator aims to maintain the traditional ambiance and avoid any potential spills or messes that could disrupt the experience. Passengers are advised to refrain from bringing food or beverages aboard the gondola.
Is Photography Allowed During the Walking Tour and Gondola Ride?
Photography is generally allowed during the walking tour and gondola ride. However, it’s advised to be mindful of others’ experiences and avoid obstructing views or disrupting the guide. Flash photography may be restricted in certain historic areas.
Are There Any Special Discounts or Packages Available for This Tour?
There are no special discounts or packages mentioned for this tour. However, children under 2 years can ride the gondola for free if they don’t occupy a seat. The tour provider also offers a Reserve Now, Pay Later booking option.
Recap
This captivating Venice tour offers an enchanting blend of guided exploration and a serene gondola ride. Visitors can enjoy the city’s iconic landmarks, from the Rialto Bridge to the Teatro La Fenice, while gaining rich historical insights. The tour culminates in a memorable glide along the Grand Canal, showcasing Venice’s majestic palaces. This unique experience provides an unforgettable opportunity to discover the enchanting beauty and charm of this iconic Italian city.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Walking Tours in Venice
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