The Caffé Florian, on the southern side of the square, claims to be the oldest café in Europe.
There are few places more distinctively and recognizably Venetian than the Piazza San Marco, or St. Mark’s Square as it is known in English. Some of the city’s most famous landmarks are located here, and it’s the perfect place to come and wander over the old flagstones in the sunshine, past the enamoured couples and the famous swirling masses of pigeons, and soak up the quintessentially Venetian atmosphere.
Putting a Ring on it
The eastern end of the square is dominated by St. Mark’s Basilica, a world-renowned masterpiece of Italo-Byzantine architecture whose extravagant exterior has long earned it the nickname Chiesa d'Oro (Church of gold). Next to the basilica stands its famous campanile, or bell tower. At 98m high, the campanile is the tallest building in Venice, and one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks, with its distinctive rusty brown brickwork contrasting strikingly with the prevailing white and cream of its surroundings.
Red Right Hand of the Doge
South of the basilica, and adjacent to the famous Grand Canal, sits the square’s other major landmark, the doge’s palace. A masterpiece of the Venetian Gothic architectural style, the palace is grand without being overly imposing, and it takes some time to fully take in the extent and intricacy of the carved stonework and delicate arches. On a darker note, you may notice the distinctly reddish tinge of the façade’s 9th and 10th columns, between which a representative of the doge used to appear and announce death sentences to the assembled crowd below.
Whether you are a first-time visitor or you want to make the most of your time in Venice, this full-day tour is the perfect opportunity to see the most popular highlights as well as off-beaten-path landmarks. Discover the architectural and artistic highlights of Venice in a day including St. Mark's Basilica, the Doge's Palace, the Rialto Bridge, and more!
On your private tour, you will:
This tour is all about making sure you experience the best of Venice in a single day –nearly an impossible task. You will see the world-famous St Mark’s Square— probably one of Italy’s most iconic locations and Venice’s largest urban open space.
This square is enclosed by the astonishing St Mark’s Basilica and the magnificent Doge’s Palace. Not only will you visit St Mark’s Basilica but also explore the Doge’s Palace, which rises majestically above the waters of the Grand Canal on St Mark’s Square. It remains one of the best examples of Venetian gothic architecture.
Your guide will be sure to show you the highlights, including the Rialto Bridge, famed as the oldest bridge to cross the Grand Canal, its arcade full of small souvenir shops is the best place to buy beautiful Venetian masks and feathers.
You will also visit the breathtaking building of the Frari Church, and the Accademia bridge, and expertly navigate the charming alleyways of the neighbourhoods of San Polo, Dorsoduro, San Marco and Castello.
At the end of your tour, your guide will be sure to give you expert recommendations on how to spend an evening in Venice –from a gondola ride to the best spots for dinner.
If this is your first time visiting Venice, this is half-day tour is the perfect experience to discover two of the city’s must-see sites: St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace, and to explore the best of the city of canals in a short amount of time.
On your private half-day tour, you will:
Your tour begins with a wow – at the heart of the world-famous St Mark’s Square. Probably one of Italy’s most iconic locations and Venice’s largest urban open space, this square is enclosed by the stunning St Mark’s Basilica and the absolutely magnificent Doge’s Palace, both of which you will visit with your private guide.
The Doge Palace was built in 812 and is celebrated as one of the best examples of Venetian Gothic architecture in the city. Right next to the Doge’s Palace in St Mark’s Basilica, deemed an icon of Italian art and culture; it is indeed one of the city’s top highlights.
Then, your guide will take you off the beaten path for a leisurely stroll as you head towards Venice’s most iconic bridge - the Rialto. Famous for being the oldest bridge to cross the Grand Canal, its arcade full of small souvenir shops.
After walking across this fantastic bridge, your tour will end with magnificent views of the Grand Canal where your guide will give you great recommendations for the best food spots during your stay.
Enjoy exploring a lesser-known side of Venice as you venture through its myths and mysteries on this private evening walking tour.
On your private 2-hour tour, you will:
This tour takes you off the beaten path, into the shadier stories of the city's legendary past, even as you explore several of the city’s highlights, like the Campo San Polo, Rialto Bridge, St Mark’s Square, and the Grand Canal, along with other spots off-the-beaten-track, including the Venetian red light district.
Along your tour, you will uncover answers to questions like: where did the "hangman" live? Who was the "Biasio" of Venice? Who was "Casanova"? Where are the ghosts' palaces, and who was the "Doctor of the Plague"? On your night out, your guide will be sure that you do not find yourself lost in the hidden mazes of the city.
Though we can't give away many details regarding this mysterious tour, we can say with certainty that it is riddled with excitement and intrigue, and is a great way to explore the city outside the heat of the day with a private guide!
Discover the best of "La Serenissima" and immerse yourself in a Venice that is not just gondolas, but a city of canals with many grand palaces such as Palazzo Ducale (Doge's Palace), unique museums and impressive churches like St. Mark's Basilica.
On your private tour, you will:
Trace the city’s fascinating beginnings, learn about its failed defence against the plague and unearth its dark secrets. Your journey will take you through Venice’s grandest central district. The architecture is sublime, the excitement rejuvenating and the atmosphere unique.
You will begin your tour walking towards Venice’s pre-eminent bridge- Rialto Bridge. Famous for being the oldest bridge on the Grand Canal, its arcade full of small souvenir shops is the best place to buy beautiful Venetian masks and feathers.
Your private guide will give you the history of the markets, as they have been operating for over seven centuries. Stroll around the bustling Rialto Markets, a picturesque shop primarily selling fish and vegetables. Take in all the sights, sounds, and smells of the market.
Venture through the most magical streets and canals of San Marco, and pass the iconic St Mark’s Square. Probably one of Italy’s most iconic locations and Venice’s largest urban open space, this square is enclosed by the astonishing St Mark’s Basilica and the magnificent Doge’s Palace.
You will see the Doge’s Palace, built-in 812, which is one of the best examples of Venetian gothic architecture. Right next to the Doge’s Palace is St. Mark's Basilica with its gold mosaics and many domes will also be sure to capture your attention.
Your tour will finish with tickets and a tour of St Mark’s Basilica. Your guide will take you on a tour of the historic Basilica, deemed to be an icon of Italian art and culture.
Please note that St. Mark's Basilica is an active church and can be subject to unforeseen closures due to religious reasons. In cases of closure, you will be given alternative touring options.
Discover the fascinating history of Venice by exploring the magnificent Doge’s Palace (in Italian Palazzo Ducale), the former residence of the Doge of Venice and one of the most popular attractions in the heart of the city with a private tour guide. The Venetian Gothic Style 14th-century building became a museum in 1923 and visiting its rooms is the best way to learn about the past of "La Serenissima".
On your private tour you will:
There is no better way to understand the power which Venice had over the overworld than by a private, guided tour of Doge’s Palace.
For over a thousand years beginning in the eighth century, Venice was ruled by doges – elected magistrates who served for life. While the process for selecting doges changed throughout the millennium, the singular law was simply that no doge could pass his title on to a member of his own family.
While the original wood structure burned down, the building which stands today is still a staggering 700 years old. From its ornate wood carvings to its larger-than-life facades, the palace is more than just a historical sight – it’s an architectural masterpiece and a visual feast.
Whilst touring the palace, see works by Titian, Tintoretto, and Tiepolo amongst others.
Explore the best of Venice and see "The City of Canals" most popular highlights on this private 2-hour introduction tour with a professional tour guide, who will take you to on a journey to discover one of Italy's more picturesque and romantic cities.
On your private tour, you will:
Trace the city’s fascinating beginnings, learn about its failed defence against the plague and unearth its dark secrets.
You will begin your tour by visiting Venice's Rialto neighbourhood. Take in all the sights, sounds, and smells of the local markets before crossing the Rialto Bridge. Famous for being the oldest bridge on the Grand Canal.
Venture through the magical streets and canals of Venice, step off the beaten tourist path to uncover the quieter side of the city, and end the tour in the iconic St Mark’s Square. Probably one of Italy’s most iconic locations and Venice’s largest urban open space, this square is enclosed by the astonishing St Mark’s Basilica and the magnificent Doge’s Palace.
You will see the Doge’s Palace, built-in 812, which is one of the best examples of Venetian gothic architecture. Right next to the Doge’s Palace is another superb building that will be sure to capture your attention!
Venice is one of Italy's most unique and fascinating cities. With a history dating back to the 5th Century, it is world-famous for its extraordinary topography. The city is built upon a lagoon and made up of a network of over 118 small islands, connected by over 400 bridges, and crisscrossed by around 150 canals. As a result, the best way to explore the city is by boat and our luxury boat tour is a delightful way to explore the highlights of Venice and get a comprehensive introduction to the city’s history, architecture and captivating culture.
On this luxury private boat tour, you will:
The stunning mosaic of islands that make up Venice truly has to be seen to be believed. The city and its surrounding lagoon have been awarded UNESCO World Heritage status and its history, nature, architecture, and amazing arts and cultural scene captivates millions of visitors every year. Experience our private luxury boat tour of the city known as the Sirenissima and ensure to beat the crowds on the narrow streets and see the many islands and landmarks in all their splendour from a unique vantage point on the water.
Your adventure through the lagoon will begin at your hotel or another location of your choice in central Venice where your friendly local guide will be waiting to immerse you in the city’s charming cultural patrimony. After getting acquainted, you will be aboard your vessel for the day’s exploring, a gorgeous Luxury Riva Aquariva Limousine Boat. Once you get comfortable, you will journey to the heart of the lagoon, seeing a series of spectacular sites along the way.
While the exact itinerary of your tour may vary depending on the conditions on the day, your guide will be sure to include the Island of San Marco, known to house some of the city’s most famous landmarks including the grand St. Mark’s Square, the breathtaking Basilica di San Marco and the majestic Doge’s palace. Your guide will point out some of the city's most emblematic architecture and reveal gripping tales of the historic events that occurred amongst the charming streets. You will also make it to the nearby San Giorgio Maggiore island, one of the most picturesque spots in the Venetian lagoon, which offers fantastic views of the Venice skyline and the Basilica of San Giorgio Maggiore, a masterpiece of classical architecture that dates back to 1610.
Another stop on your voyage will be the intriguing island of Poveglia where your guide will regale you with stories of some of the mysterious legends associated with this eerie abandoned enclave. Whilst visits to the island are prohibited, your captain will get you as close as possible so you can get a feel for the tumultuous history and alleged ghostly aura from the spirits of many who have perished upon Poveglia over the years. Adjacent to Poveglia you will have the chance to cruise up and down the incredible Lido di Venezia, a long, narrow island that forms a natural barrier between the Venetian Lagoon and the Adriatic Sea. The lido is celebrated for its sandy beaches, whimsical Art Deco architecture and for being the home of the Venice Film Festival, one of the most hotly-anticipated events for cinephiles where the Hollywood royalty and prestigious auteurs descend on the lido in August and September every year.
Right at the tip of the Lido, you will find the lush green island of Vignole, traditionally known as Venice’s vegetable garden. You will take in this oasis of gardens, orchards and vineyards dating back hundreds of years, many of which provide fresh produce to the restaurants of Venice to this day. Right next door, you will see Certosa, another lesser-known islet where you may spot a variety of birds and other wildlife. All the while you will have the chance to enjoy a glass of prosecco on board as well as snack on some traditional Venetian cookies that will give you a delectable taste of a much-loved local delicacy.
No boat trip around the islands of Venice would be complete without a stop on Murano, one the most famous and colourful islands thanks to its myriad of talented artisans. Murano is synonymous with Venetian glass, an art form that dates back to the late 13th century, and your guide will explain why the glassmakers relocated to the island as well as how the tradition is still going strong today. You will even get the chance to step inside one of Murano’s oldest glassblowing factories to see the elaborate art of glassmaking firsthand.
Following your exuberating artistic interlude in Murano, you will climb back aboard your boat and cross the lagoon one more time to return to bustling central Venice. You have the option to return to your hotel, or your guide can take you back to St. Mark’s Square should you wish to continue your exploration of the Floating City on foot. Your guide can provide a wealth of recommendations for what to see, do and eat during the rest of your stay in Venice and this unforgettable excursion will come to a close, no doubt one of the highlights of your trip.
Once the centre of the European art world, and still a haven for artisans to this day, it is easy to see why so many have been inspired by the unique beauty of Venice across the centuries. Each of the city’s more than one hundred islands has its distinct character and stories to tell, and visitors who appreciate great art should not miss the chance to discover the iconic Murano and Burano, known around the world for their colourful streets and old traditions of glass-blowing and lace making. The best way to navigate the highlights and the hidden gems of Venice is on the water, and our artsy excursion by luxury boat allows you to embark upon an unforgettable journey through the Venetian Lagoon curated by a passionate local guide.
On this private full-day trip, you will:
The city of Venice is truly one of a kind. There is so much to uncover amongst its intricate web of islands connected by iconic bridges and canals. Exploring Venice by boat provides you with an immersive and authentic experience, through its rich maritime history and gives a comprehensive view of its incredible architecture since many of its buildings were specifically designed to be seen from the water.
Your delightful day on the water will begin at your hotel in central Venice where your private guide will pick you up and bring you aboard your elegant Riva Aquariva boat with a dedicated captain at your disposal for the duration of the trip. Once you get acquainted, it is time to embark upon your voyage of discovery through the lagoon. As you cruise through the waterways, you’ll enjoy a privileged view of Venice’s most iconic landmarks. Whilst the itinerary may vary depending on the conditions of the day and the interests of your party, you will not want to miss San Marco island, home of St. Mark's Square, the Doge’s palace and the impressive St. Mark’s Basilica. Your guide will provide a crash course in Venetian history and architecture as you take in the picturesque buildings of the square from the water, once the political and religious centre of the independent Republic of Venice.
You will likely sail under the renowned Bridge of Sighs and learn the origin of its intriguing name before reaching San Giorgio Maggiore. This small island just a stone’s throw away from San Marco is known for its grandiose basilica and bell tower that dates back to the 16th century. Your journey will continue to the isolated enclave of Poveglia, where your guide can share the dark secrets of the eerie abandoned island, and the nearby Venice Lido, which forms a natural barrier between the lagoon and the Adriatic sea and is beloved for its sandy beaches, glamorous hotels and for playing host to the prestigious Venice Film festival. All the while, you will have the chance to sip Prosecco and taste emblematic Venetian sweet treats as you take in breathtaking views.
You can expect to see the Arsenale, a fascinating Byzantine shipyard thought to have been the largest manufacturing complex in Europe before the Industrial Revolution. Your guide will explain how innovative shipbuilding techniques as well as historic trade routes were crucial to the wealth and power of the Republic of Venice, as well as how the space has been repurposed today. Before heading to the most colourful parts of the lagoon you will discover some of the lesser-known islands such as the rustic Vignole and the lush green haven of Certosa where you can keep an eye out for some of the lagoon’s wonderful wildlife.
Then it will be time for your hotly-anticipated visit to Murano, a charming cluster of islands famous worldwide for their master craftsmen who have been producing exquisite glasswork for over 700 years. You will disembark your boat to explore the island on foot and have an opportunity to witness master artisans practice the ancient art of glassblowing in one of the oldest remaining glass factories. This behind-the-scenes experience offers a rare glimpse into Venetian artistry that has been perfected over centuries. Your guide will explain more about the history of Murano and how it once served as an important trading hub whilst you stroll the scenic canals and perhaps even acquire some Murano glass to take home.
Soon you will sail on to beautiful Burano, where a kaleidoscope of colourful homes lines the canals. You will delve into the island’s lace-making tradition, a craft that has flourished for over 500 years, and see a special demonstration of this intricate process. As you wander around its picture-perfect streets, you will learn about Burano’s origins and the local legend as to the reason behind the striking colours of the facades. By this time, you should have worked up an appetite so your guide can recommend some fantastic restaurants on the island to enjoy typical Venetian cuisine (not included).
After this delectable detour, you will climb aboard the boat once more and make your way back through the lagoon, passing by the neighbouring island of Mazzorbo where you can admire its historic buildings and vineyards and hear about the uncommon grape varieties that are cultivated there, producing very interesting and sought after wines. Your captain will then bring you back to central Venice where you will return to your hotel or if you prefer, disembark at St. Mark’s Square to continue your adventure, armed with plenty more recommendations from your passionate local expert, and a deep understanding and appreciation of Venice’s crafts and cultural heritage.
A visit to Venice offers a captivating blend of stunning beauty, rich history, unique geographical features and vibrant cultural traditions. The city's picturesque canals, breathtaking palaces, and mosaic of magnificent islands dotted across its waters create a sense of awe and serenity that has enticed residents and travellers alike for centuries, earning Venice the title la Sirenissima. The city's relationship with the sea has shaped its entire identity. From the tranquil waters of the Grand Canal to the smaller, winding side canals, the essence of Venice lies in this seamless fusion of architecture and nature, where boats replace cars and bridges link neighbourhoods. The best way for visitors to truly get under the skin of Venice is by boat, accessing islands and landmarks you could not reach on foot. On our private full-day luxury boat experience, you can make the most of your time in the city of canals and uncover the treasures of the Venetian lagoon in the company of a knowledgeable local guide.
On this private full-day luxury boat trip, you will:
Founded around the 5th century AD, Venice is renowned for its stunning canals, historic architecture, and romantic charm. Over time, the city grew into a powerful maritime republic, particularly during the Middle Ages and Renaissance, and its wealth and importance are still evident in many incredible buildings that have survived to this day. As such, wandering the streets of Venice can feel like stepping back in time, especially since cars are forbidden. Our luxurious private boat tour offers a perfect combination of Venice's iconic landmarks, artisanal traditions, and culinary delights, creating a truly unique and immersive experience.
You will begin your Venetian adventure in the heart of the city with a hassle-free hotel pick-up and enjoy the comfort and privacy of your own dedicated captain and expert guide throughout the day. Once you hop on board your splendid Riva Aquariva boat, your guide will give you a thrilling introduction to the Floating City. You will soon start to cruise past Venice's most renowned landmarks, including St. Mark’s Square, the Doge’s Palace, and St. Mark’s Basilica, as you take in breathtaking views of the historic San Marco area.
As you glide across the lagoon, you'll pass by the well-known islands of San Giorgio, Poveglia, and the impressive Venice Lido, each with its charm and story that will be adeptly explained by your guide. Meanwhile, you can indulge in traditional Venetian treats and Prosecco while on the boat, adding a touch of local flavour to your luxurious journey. You will have the chance to learn about the illustrious Venetian maritime history as you sail past the Venice Arsenale, a historic naval hub, and also enjoy the views of the beautiful islands of Vignole and Certosa.
Then it will be time to delve into the artistic heritage of Murano where you can disembark to get a closer look at its Venetian glass shops and galleries and enjoy an exclusive visit to one of the oldest glassblowing workshops, where you’ll see artisans crafting their world-famous pieces. Later, you will marvel at the vibrant colours of Burano, famous for its charming houses and intricate lace-making tradition dating back 5 centuries. After enjoying a demonstration of the lace-making process, you will have time to wander the lively streets and take plenty of photos. You will also pay a visit to the historic island of Torcello, where you can get an in-depth look at one of the lagoon’s earliest and most significant settlements before stopping for a traditional lunch (at your own expense). Your guide will show you the best places to eat on the island, including a renowned family-run restaurant showcasing the best of Venetian cuisine.
Last but certainly not least, your final stop of the day will be the tranquil island of Mazzorbo where you’ll not only learn all about its historic vineyards but also indulge in a wine tasting where you can savour a taste of its exquisite wine and discover rare and ancient grape native to the island that has been revived in recent years.
As your circumnavigation of Venice comes to a close, your captain will take you back to the city centre, where you have the choice of returning to your hotel to relax or to St. Mark’s Square to dive deeper into the magic and mysteries of the city. Your guide will ensure that you are well-prepared for the rest of your trip with plenty of insider tips, and your fond memories of your exhilarating expedition through the iconic waterways of Venice will last a lifetime.
Venice is a truly captivating city known for its canals, long and complex history, thriving food culture, artisanal traditions and its vibrant carnival festivities. Travellers short on time can enjoy a full-day itinerary jam-packed with Venetian highlights on our exclusive private tour, where you can cruise the Grand Canal, stroll the historic Sestiere, visit the colourful island of Murano to see master glassblowers at work and even dip into an atelier where carnival masks are carefully crafted. You will also get a delectable introduction to the quintessential Venetian gastronomy in the form of Cicchetti at a traditional tavern, making this the perfect way to immerse yourself in Venice’s rich cultural heritage.
On this private full-day tour, you will:
There are so many sights and intriguing stories to be found within Venice that it can be hard to know where to start. Enlisting the help of a private guide is a great means of making the most of your time in the Floating City. Our carefully curated full-day itinerary combines Venice’s most famous sights with authentic experiences, offering a perfect blend of culture, cuisine, and unforgettable views. This is Venice at its finest—a day crafted for travellers who want to explore the city’s essence from every angle.
Your Venetian adventure will begin at your hotel where your guide will come to pick you up and set the stage for your day together. From there, you will embark upon a walking tour of the historic centre to learn about the monuments and events that have shaped Venice across the centuries. Traversing the heart of the city, your guide will show you St. Mark’s Square, where the grandeur of St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace awaits. You will marvel at the opulent architecture that showcases Venice’s illustrious past and stroll by the Bridge of Sighs, learning its intriguing history and imagining the stories of those who once passed through it. Your guide will also show you the iconic Rialto Bridge and pass by the bustling Rialto Market nearby, a staple of Venetian daily life. You will have the opportunity to meander through the charming streets of San Polo and Cannaregio, two of Venice’s most authentic sestieri (the name given to the traditional neighbourhoods in the centre of Venice). Here, you’ll experience Venice as locals do, with your guide introducing you to hidden gems and sharing insights about Venetian customs and everyday life.
One of the quintessential Venetian customs is of course the annual carnival celebrations which see the city come alive with opulent balls, parades, and performances. Masks are central to the festivities, with visitors and locals alike donning intricate designs and elaborate costumes, stepping back in time to Venice’s Golden Age. As you step inside an authentic mask atelier, you’ll get an exclusive insider look at the mask-making process. Your guide will explain the origins of the Venice carnival and the different types of masks on display, and you will see firsthand the artistry and craftsmanship that go into this cherished tradition at the hands of the expert mask makers known as mascareri.
Your itinerary will include a pause for a delicious Venetian lunch at a cosy local tavern where you can indulge in traditional cicchetti —small plates brimming with local flavours — and enjoy an ombra, a small glass of wine that’s an integral part of Venetian social life. With your guide’s local insight, you’ll be able to savour this midday feast and connect with Venetian culinary heritage. After lunch, it is time to get on the water and embark on a scenic private boat journey across the Venetian lagoon to the vibrant island of Murano, famed for its centuries-old glassmaking tradition. You will visit a glassblowing factory, where a skilled artisan will demonstrate the mesmerizing process of creating Murano glass—a unique and intricate art form passed down through generations.
As your Venetian voyage of discovery draws to a close, you will enjoy a breathtaking cruise along the Grand Canal. You will admire Venice’s palazzos, bridges, and timeless skyline from the water, getting caught up in the romance of Venice’s waterways as you glide past emblematic landmarks, capturing unforgettable views and memories. Following your picturesque boat trip, you will have the option to return to your hotel and relax or to disembark back at St. Mark’s Square to enjoy Venice at twilight, equipped with a much deeper knowledge of the city's truly unique personality and traditions.
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