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 of the Floating City—and how to choose the right one for you.
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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:
👉 See all Venice Tours
Not ready to book a tour? Check out our Venice Guide for more info.
Types of Tours Available in Venice
🎟️ St. Mark’s Basilica & Doge’s Palace Tours
The main attraction in Venice is St Mark’s Square, which is home to the Basilica of St Mark (Basilica di San Marco) and Doge’s Palace (Palazzo Ducale). These are stunning mega-monuments that merit a tour. They are steeped in history and full of stories. Here are a few tours to consider:
👉 See all tours including St Mark’s Basilica and/or Doge’s Palace
🚣♂️Gondola and Highlights Tours
Taking a Gondola is undoubtedly the most iconic bucket-list activity in Venice. Many of our Venice tours include a Gondola for a portion of the tour and other monuments as well.
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🍷 Food and Cicchetti Tours
Enjoy fish? Venice is for you! The cuisine in Venice is unique of other cities in Italy and lasagna is the last thing you should eat there. Get a food orientation with a walking tour or take a day trip to Prosecco for some bubbly!
👉 See all Food & Wine Tours
🚤 Murano & Burano Islands
Venice is a series of islands. The main islands are grouped together, surprisingly, in the shape of a fish! That said, there are other islands of equal importance, including Murano and Burano. Each is famous for its own arts and foods!
👉 See all Murano & Burano tours
👥 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.
Tour 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) |
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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.
Not ready to book a tour? Find out if a Tours of Murano and Burano are Worth it
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!
