Tours/Venice/Authentic Gondola Tour & Exclusive Venice eBooks
Viator · group up to 5 pax

Authentic Gondola Tour & Exclusive Venice eBooks

3.0(10)Venice1 hour
VIATOR1.8(5)TRIPADVISOR4.2(5)

Description

Experience the essence of Venice on a classic gondola ride through the city's most enchanting canals. Departing from Campo San Moisè, you'll board a traditional Venetian gondola to discover unique landscapes, sailing under historic bridges and admiring elegant palaces that reveal all the charm of the city. During the approximately 30-minute ride, you'll travel along tranquil canals and a stretch of the famous Grand Canal, appreciating Venice from an unforgettable perspective. Without the need for a guide, the experience allows you to freely contemplate the romantic and timeless atmosphere of the city as you glide smoothly through the Venetian waters. Ideal for sharing special moments, each gondola accommodates up to 5 people and provides an authentic experience of Venetian tradition. To complement the ride, you will receive an exclusive eBook with curiosities, stories, and special tips about Venice and its historic canals.

Tour Options

Authentic Gondola Tour & Exclusive Venice eBooks

Itinerary

30 min

Flowing at the heart of Venice lies the magnificent Grand Canal, an awe-inspiring spectacle. Stretching over 2 miles in length and elegantly taking the form of a backward "S," this iconic watercourse meanders through the city, linking captivating neighborhoods and displaying the architectural marvels of Venice. Embark on a voyage along the Grand Canal and bear witness to the splendor of the palaces, churches, and edifices that grace its shores. Be enchanted by their intricate designs, adorned with vibrant facades and graceful details, reflecting centuries of Venetian history and cultural opulence. As you glide gracefully along the shimmering waters, immerse yourself in the vibrant ambiance of Venetian existence. Admire the elegant gondolas and vaporettos gracefully navigating the canal, ferrying both locals and visitors to their chosen destinations.

Pass by

During the latter part of the 18th century, Venice could proudly boast of having seven age-old theaters, with two solely dedicated to drama and the remainder reserved for musical performances. Among this distinguished group, the most opulent was the Teatro San Benedetto, situated close to Campo San Luca. Initially founded in 1755 by the esteemed Grimani family, it later came under the control of the Noble Society of box holders. Nevertheless, in 1787, following a judicial agreement, the society was expelled and forced to relinquish ownership of the theater to the Venier nobles, who owned the land on which the structure was erected. Promptly, the society embarked on constructing a new and grander theater, to be named Gran Teatro La Fenice, akin to the mythical and immortal bird mentioned in Herodotus' Histories. Just as the phoenix is renowned for rising from its own ashes, this newly-built theater would symbolize society's resurgence from its adversities.

Pass by

There are numerous lingering place names that recall the city's history of widespread horticultural activities or undeveloped areas covered with vegetation. Among these, we can mention the campi (fields), campaign (countryside), courtyards filled with grass, or the calluses of the fighter. The first recorded mention of Rio dell'Alboro dates back to 1696, while the Rio de le Ostreghe appears in documents during the following century. It is likely that a seller of these delicious seafood delicacies operated nearby, as their cultivation in the lagoon experienced significant growth, especially in the first half of the 19th century. This is also evident in the canal named after them, formerly known as the ostregheri canal but now referred to as Canale dei Lavraneri, located in Sacca Fisola.

Pass by

Santa Maria della Salute, situated in Venice, is a remarkable basilica that stands as a symbol of gratitude and optimism. Erected in the 17th century, it was dedicated to the Virgin Mary in commemoration of the city's deliverance from the devastating plague. The impressive domed structure and graceful Baroque architecture render it a prominent architectural treasure along the Grand Canal. Inside, the space is adorned with exquisite masterpieces and intricate embellishments, evoking a sense of wonder among its visitors. Even today, Santa Maria della Salute remains a significant religious and cultural landmark in Venice, attracting both locals and tourists alike who come to marvel at its beauty and historical importance.

Highlights

Shared gondola ride (not guided)
Multilingual assistance when boarding
Ebook guide

What's included

Included
Shared gondola ride (not guided)
Multilingual assistance when boarding
Ebook guide
Not included
Drink
Food
Transport
The gondola ride is not a guided tour

Traveller Ratings

3.0
10 reviews
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Important Information

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • The gondola ride is not private but is shared with other participants.
  • Up to 5 individuals can board each gondola.
  • The route may alter due to unfavorable weather conditions.
  • Our gondolier will assign your seat, not selectable.
  • IMPORTANT: This is a shared tour, not private.
  • The Gondola ride does not include a guided tour.
  • 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
  • Your complimentary eBook will be sent automatically once your reservation has been successfully confirmed.

Reviews(10)

D
Dean_S
October 3, 2024
Fun but understand what you are getting

This was an enjoyable time, we were a little disappointed by the fact that we thought we would each get our own gondola per booking. No where did we understand that we would be sharing the ride with others. The ride was pleasant but in future would would probably book directly with a gondola ride.

Operator response

Thanks for your feedback! You are very important to us! We always choose the best guides, to provide an excellent service! Thank you, we are waiting for you and we thank you!

7
716christinek
September 17, 2024
Perfect for a Visit to Copenhagen

This boutique hotel is extremely well-positioned, centrally, to many key features in the old part of Copenhagen. Most are within walking distance. The location of the hotel is in a quiet area, good for sleeping and resting. Stylish in the decor, with an old-world setting, in very good condition having been renovated several years ago. My room ( Twin deluxe) was very nice, spacious for 1 person, 2 would also have ample room. One small glitch - the squeaky floor. I was told that came with the age of the building and that the sound would not carry to the neighbors. The bathroom had good storage space and the shower was hot with good pressure. The window in the bedroom opened which was a bonus as the weather was quite warm and humid towards the end of August. The breakfast was a lavish buffet with hot and cold dishes and decent coffee. There are a few eating areas so crowded rooms can be avoided. You can also relax with a drink on the terrace, in the Reception area, the courtyard or outside. The Receptionists were very polite, professional and helpful. I highly recommend this hotel, especially if it's your first time in Copenhagen.

Operator response

Thanks for your feedback! You are very important to us! We always choose the best guides, to provide an excellent service! Thank you, we are waiting for you and we thank you!

C
Claire_S
July 23, 2024
Do NOT waste money or time..

Waste of money. Go directly to the Alilaguna booking office and the cost is 36 € per person, less than HALF the cost I paid through this offer... and you only end up on a 20min circular route following every other damn gondola leaving at the same time. It's noisy, busy and frankly distracting as well as seriously over charged. If you want to experience a real gondola ride, book through a local contact.

F
Fran_W
May 21, 2024
Viator inflated ticket price

I booked a Gondola ride through the Viator App which advertised this trip as £80.14 for a 30 minute trip without commentary and a shared boat. I thought this was expensive as some other the other trips seemed less expensive, but as my niece had already booked this trip I booked to be on the same boat as her. When we arrived at the meeting point to redeem our ticket, I was told by the ticket office that this trip is 36€ and should not be any more then that as they are all the same price for this particular trip. I said I had paid £80.14 which is the equivalent of €93.76 which is 3 times the price of the ride locally. How can this be I asked and he said I should not have been charged this. Check how much these rides cost with other operators as this was clearly a hugely inflated price by Victor which I am claiming for.

Operator response

Hello, Thank you for your feedback. We apologize for any confusion regarding the price of your gondola ride. By booking through the Viator App, you benefit from a premium platform that includes additional services such as dedicated customer support, real-time updates, WhatsApp assistance, priority boarding, among other exclusive benefits. These additional conveniences may result in a higher price compared to booking directly on-site. We understand your concerns and appreciate your understanding regarding the differences in pricing structures. If you have any further questions or need assistance, please feel free to contact us.

F
felipecC4019FJ
May 12, 2024
Company doesn’t exist!

The travel company didn’t exist and I lost my money and the ride which was even more frustrating for me and my family! I got to the indicated place place 30 min earlier but there was nobody form this company. I called many times to the number indicated on the voucher but nobody answered. Despite of all the efforts of all the other gondola companies in the area, we could not locate them so I lost 301,95Euros. I called Tripadvisor and hopefully, at least, I’ll get the refund. Felipe

S
Sylvie_M
January 3, 2024
Not worth it.

The tour itself was good, for a 20 minute gondola ride. The local operator was amazing and really tried to help when he realised what had happened. After using many tours with Viator, in many cities over the years, this tour is the first that was a complete rip off. The tour cost our family of four over $750 aus $ for a 20 minute gondola tour, that was exactly the same as the tour that you purchased on the spot for $ 35 euro pp. the local tour operators were shocked we had paid so much, as there is only one tour available. Not a deluxe tour, one I thought I had paid for as it was so much more expensive than every other tour. Our gondola tour was exactly the same as the basic tour that went for 20 minutes. Unfortunately this has been a very expensive lesson and I will now be way more careful when booking tours with Viator in the future.

Operator response

We apologize for the disappointment and frustration you experienced during your Explore the Canals on an Authentic Gondola Tour Venetian Dreams. Your feedback is important to us, and we take your comments seriously. We regret any confusion or dissatisfaction caused by the pricing and quality of the tour. This is not the experience we aim to provide, and we understand your frustration. We will investigate internally to ensure better pricing transparency and quality assurance in the future. We appreciate your loyalty as a Viator customer and apologize for any inconvenience caused. We hope you will give us another opportunity to provide you with a better experience in the future.

A
AnneMarie_B
October 17, 2023
Disappointed tour

The gondolier was rude and short with us, it seemed like if we asked anything we were bothering him , asked him if they have music or hats , his response was "It's not like the crap you see on YouTube"! WOW , I will not recommend this tour in the future , I would have like a guided personal tour, if I ever come back in the future

Operator response

Hello, as we were talking on WhatsApp, we informed our operator so that he could notify the gondolier. He was fired from the company.

F
federicadP1725RE
August 24, 2023
Gondola tour

The gondola tour offers a majestic way to witness Venice's grandeur. The canals are liquid streets, and our gondola felt like a royal chariot. Passing beneath historic bridges and palatial buildings, we were transported to another era. This experience deserves a solid five stars!

Operator response

Thank you! We are happy that you enjoyed our tour! We work to make our customers happy! Your feedback is very important to us!

F
FabioAsr82
August 24, 2023
Romantic Gondola Ride

Venice's romantic allure truly comes to life on this gondola ride. The serene canals, the soft sounds of water, and the intimate setting make it a perfect experience for couples. Our gondolier shared interesting tidbits about the city, enhancing the romance. Five stars for an unforgettable memory!

Operator response

Thank you! We are happy that you enjoyed our tour! We work to make our customers happy! Your feedback is very important to us!

E
Emma_Rei888
August 16, 2023
Romantic and great tour

Romantic and picturesque! Sharing a gondola with other travelers didn't diminish the charm at all. In fact, it added to the fun as we made new friends while enjoying the breathtaking views and the gondolier's melodious singing.

Operator response

Thank you! We are happy that you enjoyed our tour! We work to make our customers happy! Your feedback is very important to us!

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