• Piazza San Marco - Begin the tour by passing through this iconic square.
• Basilica di San Marco - Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Saint Mark’s Basilica, Venice’s most renowned landmark, on a guided tour that highlights its rich history and magnificent architecture. Bypass the queues and enter this Byzantine marvel, celebrated for its sparkling gold mosaics, intricate marble floors, and impressive domes. Discover the church’s profound religious importance, its role in Venetian history, and the treasures it houses, including the Pala d’Oro, a stunning gold altarpiece embellished with precious stones.
• Bacino di San Marco - The Bacino di San Marco is the breathtaking Venetian lagoon basin in front of St. Mark’s Square, offering one of the most spectacular views in Venice. This historic waterway has been central to the city’s maritime trade for centuries, where gondolas, vaporettos, and grand cruise ships pass by landmarks like the Doge’s Palace, San Giorgio Maggiore, and the iconic Ponte della Paglia. With its glistening waters and dramatic skyline, the Bacino di San Marco is the ideal place to absorb the magic of Venice and to commence your gondola tour!
• rio del Palazzo - The Rio del Palazzo is one of Venice’s most captivating canals, flowing alongside the Doge’s Palace and beneath the renowned Bridge of Sighs. This serene, atmospheric waterway offers a glimpse into the city’s historic core, where your gondola will glide past elegant palaces and hidden passageways. The canal’s most iconic view is from beneath the Bridge of Sighs, where prisoners once took their final look at Venice before entering the palace’s dungeons.
• Ponte dei Sospiri - The Bridge of Sighs is one of Venice’s most celebrated landmarks, linking the Doge’s Palace to the historic prisons. Constructed in the 17th century, this enclosed white limestone bridge is named after the sighs of prisoners who, according to legend, took one last look at Venice through its stone-barred windows before their fate was sealed. Designed by Antonio Contino, its delicate beauty contrasts with its somber past. Today, the bridge is a symbol of Venetian romance and mystery, best admired from the Rio del Palazzo from your gondola.
• rio di Santa Maria Formosa - The Rio di Santa Maria Formosa is a charming canal in the heart of Venice, flowing near the historic Campo Santa Maria Formosa and its stunning Renaissance church. Lined with elegant palaces and traditional Venetian homes, this tranquil waterway offers a glimpse into the city’s authentic charm, away from the bustling Grand Canal. Gondolas and small boats navigate its peaceful waters, passing beneath charming stone bridges. The canal provides beautiful reflections of Venice’s timeless architecture, making it a perfect spot for your scenic gondola ride.
• Rio de S. Severo - The Rio di San Severo is a serene and atmospheric canal in Venice, winding through the historic Castello district near St. Mark’s Basilica. Lined with elegant palaces and centuries-old buildings, this hidden waterway offers a more intimate and peaceful glimpse of the city, away from the crowded tourist routes. Your gondola will glide beneath charming stone bridges, reflecting the timeless beauty of Venetian architecture. With its tranquil setting and picturesque views, the Rio di San Severo is a perfect spot to experience the authentic charm of Venice before concluding your gondola ride.

• Expert, English-speaking Tour Guide
• Skip the Line Access & Guided Tour of St. Mark’s Basilica
• Audio headset during St Mark’s Basilica Visit
• 30 minutes shared Gondola Ride through Venice Canals

• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Gratuities

Enter St. Mark’s Basilica, one of Venice’s most renowned landmarks, with exclusive access to bypass the lengthy queues. Marvel at the stunning mosaics, elaborate Byzantine architecture, and ancient treasures that make this cathedral a true masterpiece. The guide will explain its symbolism, design intricacies, and historical importance.

Next, enjoy a classic gondola ride through Venice’s canals, a must-do experience. As you glide under bridges and past historic palaces, you’ll gain a unique perspective of the city, away from the bustling crowds. The serene waterways offer a quieter, more intimate view of Venice, where history and tradition seamlessly merge with everyday life.

Whether beginning with St. Mark’s Basilica or the gondola ride, this tour provides an unforgettable insight into Venice’s rich heritage and timeless allure.

• A dress code is required to enter St Mark’s Basilica. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women.
• Only small bags are allowed in St Mark’s Basilica
• Please note that the Gondola ride cannot operate during heavy rain or adverse weather conditions. In this case either an alternate date or a partial refund will be provided to clients

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