Venice is unlike anywhere else in the world. Built on water, rich with mystery, and layered with centuries of art, politics, and trade, it can be both magical and overwhelming. That’s where a great tour makes all the difference. Based on our years of running guided experiences in Venice, here’s our firsthand guide to the best tours to take in Venice—and how to choose the right one for you.
What’s covered in this article:
Should You Take a Tour in Venice?
Yes, without a doubt! Venice has its well-known sights but it also has a lot of hidden gems to discover that only your knowledgeable local guide will know to show you. Your guide will also bring the city to life with interesting stories and historical facts.
A tour of Venice will certainly elevate your experience as you explore new food in the best places, get to know the city on a deeper level, and maybe even meet new friends on the way. Don’t take our word for it. See what our clients have said about taking a Venice tour:
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Not ready to book a tour? Check out our Venice Guide for more info.
Quick Look: Best Tours to Take in Venice
Best Tours to Take in Venice by Type
St. Mark’s Basilica & Doge’s Palace Tours
The main attraction in Venice is St. Mark’s Square, home to the stunning Basilica of St. Mark (Basilica di San Marco) and Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale). These iconic landmarks are steeped in history and full of fascinating stories, making them must-see stops on any visit to Venice.
St. Mark’s Basilica is a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture, famous for its golden mosaics and intricate domes. Inside, you’ll find treasures like the Pala d’Oro, a dazzling altarpiece adorned with gold and precious gems. Skip-the-line access ensures you’ll have more time to take in its beauty without the wait.
Doge’s Palace offers a glimpse into Venice’s political and cultural past. Explore its grand halls, the Golden Staircase, and the eerie prison cells where Casanova was once held. Don’t miss the Bridge of Sighs, where prisoners caught their final view of Venice.
With a guided tour, you’ll uncover hidden gems in the square, like the two iconic columns of San Marco and San Teodoro, and learn about the square’s historic role in Venetian life. Many tours also include a gondola ride or visits to nearby islands like Murano and Burano for glassblowing and lacemaking demonstrations.
- St. Mark’s & Doge’s Palace Tour
- St. Mark’s & Doge’s Palace + Murano Glass Blowing –
- Venice in a Day Tour with Gondola Ride –
👉 See all tours including St Mark’s Basilica and/or Doge’s Palace
Venice Food and Cicchetti Tours
Love seafood? Then Venice is your dream destination! The city’s cuisine is unlike anywhere else in Italy, with a focus on fresh fish, unique flavors, and local traditions. Forget lasagna—Venetian food is all about dishes like sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines), creamy risottos, and bigoli pasta with anchovies.
A food tour is the perfect way to get a taste of Venice’s culinary scene while exploring its charming streets. Many tours take you to local markets, hidden bacari (Venetian wine bars), and family-run restaurants where you can sample traditional dishes paired with regional wines. You’ll also learn about the city’s food history, from its spice trade roots to its love of fresh seafood straight from the lagoon.
For a truly unique experience, consider a day trip to the Prosecco Hills. Just a short drive from Venice, this picturesque region is home to rolling vineyards and some of the best sparkling wine in the world. On a guided tour, you’ll visit local wineries, learn about the Prosecco-making process, and, of course, enjoy plenty of tastings.
Whether you’re savoring cicchetti on a walking tour or sipping bubbly in the Prosecco Hills, Venice’s food tours offer a delicious way to experience the city’s culture and flavors.
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Tours including a Gondola
Taking a gondola ride is the quintessential Venice experience and a must for any visitor. Gliding through the city’s serene canals, under charming bridges, and past centuries-old palazzos is like stepping into a postcard. It’s no wonder gondola rides are at the top of every Venice bucket list!
Many of our Venice tours include a gondola ride as part of the experience, combining this iconic activity with visits to the city’s most famous landmarks. Imagine starting your day exploring St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace, then capping it off with a relaxing gondola ride through the canals. It’s the perfect way to see Venice from a whole new perspective.
On our tours, you’ll enjoy a shared gondola ride with up to five guests, making it a more intimate and authentic experience. Your gondolier will expertly navigate the narrow waterways, giving you a front-row seat to Venice’s beauty. You’ll pass by hidden gems, historic buildings, and even catch glimpses of daily life in this floating city.
Whether it’s your first time in Venice or your tenth, a gondola ride is an unforgettable way to soak in the magic of the city. Pairing it with a guided tour ensures you get the best of both worlds—Venice’s rich history and its timeless charm.
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Tours Including Murano & Burano Islands
While Venice’s main islands form the iconic fish-shaped heart of the city, the nearby islands of Murano and Burano are equally captivating and worth exploring. Each has its own unique charm, history, and artistic traditions.
Murano is renowned for its centuries-old glassblowing craft. On a visit, you can watch master artisans transform molten glass into stunning creations like vases and chandeliers. Many tours include a demonstration at a traditional workshop, offering a fascinating glimpse into this delicate art form.
Burano, with its brightly colored houses, is a photographer’s dream. The island is famous for its intricate handmade lace, a tradition passed down through generations. While there, don’t miss sampling the island’s signature cookies, “bussolai,” or enjoying its fresh seafood.
Visiting Murano and Burano offers a peaceful escape from Venice’s main attractions. Many tours include roundtrip transportation, making it easy to experience the islands’ beauty and traditions. From Murano’s glass masterpieces to Burano’s vibrant streets, these islands showcase Venice’s artistic soul.
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Private & Semi-Private Tours
We offer tours in small groups, fewer than 20, or we’ll tell you, and private tours. You can find them in these categories.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Venice Tour
After years of guiding travelers through Venice’s canals and alleyways, here’s what we suggest thinking about before booking:
- Tour Duration – Do you want a quick overview or an immersive deep dive? Venice rewards both short strolls and full-day adventures.
- Group Size – Prefer a small group gliding quietly through the city, or don’t mind tagging along with a lively crowd?
- Skip-the-Line Access – Critical at St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace, where the queues can be brutal in peak season.
- Tour Focus – Are you here for the art, the history, the food—or just to say you’ve floated through a dream?
- Mobility & Terrain – Venice means bridges, steps, and walking. Choose a tour that matches your comfort level, especially if accessibility is a concern.
Best Tours to Take in Venice Comparison Chart
| Tour Name | Duration | Skip-the-Line? | Best For | Highlights | Avg Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| St. Mark’s & Doge’s Palace with Gondola Ride | 3.5 hrs | ✅ Yes | First-time visitors | St. Mark’s, Doge’s Palace, Gondola Ride | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.9/5) |
| Venice Food Tour in Cannaregio | 6 hrs | ✅ Yes | First-time visitors | St. Mark’s, Doge’s Palace, Rialto, Gondola | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.8/5) |
| Venice in a Day with Murano and Burano | 3 hrs | ✅ Yes | Food lovers | Cannaregio, Local cicchetti, Wine | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.7/5) |
| Murano and Burano Half Day Boat Tour | 9 hrs | ✅ Yes | Comprehensive explorers | St. Mark’s, Murano, Burano, Gondola | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.9/5) |
| Prosecco Hills from Venice | 4 hrs | ✅ Yes | Art & culture enthusiasts | Murano glass, Burano lace, Private boat | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5.0/5) |
Final Thoughts
Venice may be compact, but it is layered with hidden stories and traditions that reward deeper discovery. Booking the right tour gives you access, insights, and time-saving perks that can transform a good trip into a great one.
Keep planning with these articles:
Where To Stay in Venice
Despite the size of this little island, there are endless hotel options to choose from. We’ve picked the best neighborhoods and hotels to stay in whether you prefer Italian luxury or quiet serenity—or both!
