The Best of Venice: San Marco Highlights & Gondola Ride

4.5 (28 reviews) Venice, Italy
Duration3h
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish, Italian
Private tourOnly your group will participate

Overview

San Marco is the beating heart of Venice — rich in history, art, and stunning views. On this private tour, your local host will take you on a journey through the city’s highlights: the Basilica di San Marco, the Doge’s Palace, and the Piazza San Marco.
But there’s more to San Marco than its famous sights. Your host will share personal stories, lesser-known corners, and tips you won’t find in any guidebook. Along the way, you'll also enjoy a classic gondola ride through the canals — a must-do Venetian experience!
(Please note: the gondola ride is not included in the price and needs to be paid in cash on the day — your host will help arrange it.)

Want to grab a bite or a coffee? Your host knows just the right place to pause and recharge. And if you’d like to tweak the route or focus on a specific interest, your host will gladly tailor the experience to you.

Whether you're here for the big sights or the local feel, this tour blends both for a truly memorable Venetian adventure.

What's included

  • CO2 Neutral: all tours carbon emissions are offset
  • Private guide
  • Entrance tickets to landmarks are not included
  • Hotel pick-up & drop off
  • Gondola Ride - Guests must pay upfront to the host

What to expect

  1. Palazzo Ducale
    20m · Admission ticket not included
    Palace built in Venetian Gothic style, and the residence of the Doge of Venice, the supreme authority of the former Republic.
  2. Piazza San Marco
    40m
    The lowest point of Venice and the city's main square where most famous buildings are located.
  3. Basilica di San Marco
    15m · Admission ticket not included
    Blending the architectural styles of East and West, Venice's magnificent basilica was consecrated in 832 AD as an ecclesiastical building to house the remains of St. Mark.
  4. Pass by
    Depending on your host and their chosen route for the tour, this stop might also be included in your route.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

In front of Caffè Florian

End point

In front of Caffè Florian

Additional information

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Private tour: only you & your local guide
  • CO2 Neutral: all tours carbon emissions are offset
  • On certain dates, most travelers staying outside of Venice who are planning to visit for the day will be required to pay a €5 access fee. For further details (including exemptions) and to learn what days this fee is applicable, please visit: https://cda.ve.it

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Reviews

4.5 (28)
From
€264.00 per person
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  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
  • Instant confirmation
  • You'll choose your date and travelers and pay on viator.com. Prices vary by date, group size and option.
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