Is anybody not in love with Venice? This incredible city is breathtaking in every way: its picturesque patchwork of glittering canals and opulent buildings, first-rate museums and iconic landmarks is one of the wonders of the world. If you've never been to Venice then now is the time to include it in your travel plans for your next trip to Italy - and if you've been before, then now is the time to come back!
Are Tours of Venice Worth it?
Absolutely! For the solo visitor, navigating Venice can be daunting. Its maze of alleys and canals have been known to confuse even the most seasoned travelers, while popular spots like St. Mark’s Square, the Doge’s Palace and the Rialto Bridge are often overwhelmed with tourists, making exploring them a chore. That’s why we believe a guided tour is essential for making the most of your time in Venice - without the hassle. But which are the best tours of Venice to take to ensure you get the best experience in the Floating City?
Whether you're an art-lover in search of the city’s treasures or prefer taking in the sights scudding along the Grand Canal in a gondola, our specially crafted Venice tours will enable you to get the most of your time in this unique and spectacular city of water. Read on to find the perfect Venice tour for you!
1. Venice at Twilight: The Secrets of the Serenissima
Embark on a captivating journey through the timeless labyrinth of Venice on our introductory walking tour of the Floating City. Discover the unparalleled beauty of Venice in the company of our friendly local expert guide, and immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of the city’s narrow alleys and winding canals. Our route will take us past unmissable highlights like St. Mark’s Square, the Rialto Bridge and the Bridge of Sighs as well as hidden corners of the city where ancient churches, dazzling palaces and mysterious canals brim with intrigue. Enjoy a complimentary spritz on us at a traditional Venetian bar, and marvel at the ethereal beauty of Venice illuminated by the soft glow of twilight.
- Tour Duration: 2.5 hours
- Group Size: A maximum of just 10 participants. Also available as a private itinerary.
2. St. Mark’s Basilica at Night
Our special night tour of Saint Mark’s Basilica offers a unique opportunity to explore Venice’s extraordinary cathedral after it has closed to the general public, meaning you won’t have to wait in line - or battle the crowds. With an expert guide, you’ll delve into the story of Saint Mark and Venice’s history, discovering how the basilica was built and became the city’s iconic landmark. Inside, admire the precious Pala d’Oro and vast expanses of stunning mosaics, beautifully illuminated by state-of-the-art lighting. Our exclusive tour also includes a visit to the crypt, the final resting place of Venice's patriarchs.
- Tour Duration: 2 hours
- Group Size: A maximum of just 10 participants. Also available as a private itinerary.
3. Essential Venice Tour: Highlights of the Floating City
Venice is a stunning treasure trove of art and culture that could captivate you for a lifetime. But if you’re new to the Floating City and want to see the city’s highlights at their best, then our Essential Venice tour offers the perfect foundation. Together, we’ll visit the city's top landmarks with skip-the-line access. First, marvel at the iconic Saint Mark’s Basilica, renowned for its glittering mosaics and stunning architecture. Next, explore the spectacular Doge’s Palace, a symbol of Venice’s immense power for nearly a millennium. Inside, you'll find the breathtaking Bridge of Sighs, a historic passage with a dark history. After exploring these monumental sites, you’ll uncover the authentic charm and unique beauty of Venice's lesser-known areas with our local guide, from hidden bookshops to serene canals.
- Tour Duration: 3.5 hours
- Group Size: This is a private tour, so will be reserved just for you and your group.
4. Venice Art Tour: The Colors of the Floating City
Venice is one of the world’s great cities of art. From Bellini and Titian to Tintoretto and Veronese, the list of great artists who have made their mark on the Serenissima is practically endless. On this special tour we’ll be taking a deep dive into Venice’s remarkable art scene, which permeates its palaces and churches, meeting halls and museums. Inspired by the extraordinary beauty of their home city, Venetian artists embraced the power of color to forge a new style of painting. Our Venice Art Tour is the perfect way to delve into the unique expressiveness of Venetian art. Guided by one of our art experts, you’ll discover how art has shaped Venice in extraordinary locations often missed by standard itineraries. Explore The Accademia, the Scuola di San Rocco, and the Basilica dei Frari, where Titian’s stunning altarpiece stands as an icon of the city.
- Tour Duration: 3.5 hours
- Group Size: This is a private tour, so will be reserved just for you and your group.
5.Murano, Burano and Torcello Islands Tour
Embark on an enchanting journey through the Venetian lagoon with our excursion to the picturesque and untouched islands of Murano, Burano, and Torcello. Discover the vibrant fishermen’s huts of Burano, the renowned glassworks of Murano, and the intriguing landmarks of Torcello - the place where the story of Venice began. These islands offer a glimpse into another side of Venice’s history and culture, where time seems to stand still and age-old traditions of craftsmanship continue to thrive. Accompanied by one of our expert local guides and with a private water taxi at your disposal, you’ll experience the wonders of the Venetian lagoon in total comfort. This special trip is the perfect way to explore the islands of Venice and enjoy an unforgettable day-trip from the Floating City!
- Tour Duration: 4 hours
- Group Size: This is a private tour, so will be reserved just for you and your group.
6. Essential Verona Day Trip
Shakespeare may never have visited Verona, but the city brims with the romance and intrigue that inspired his tale of literature’s most famous star-crossed lovers. Verona is home to some of Italy’s most remarkable ancient landmarks, including a beautifully preserved amphitheater, atmospheric medieval churches, and an iconic ancient bridge. This elegant city is also a paradise for food enthusiasts, offering authentic neighborhood restaurants and bars that highlight the delights of Veneto cuisine amidst its charming piazzas and cobbled streets. And, of course, there’s the world’s most famous balcony, the symbol of Romeo and Juliet’s enduring love. Join our Essential Verona tour to explore all these highlights and more, guided by a local expert who will bring the city’s rich history to life.
- Tour Duration: 3.5 hours
- Group Size: This is a private tour, so will be reserved just for you and your group.
7. Best of Padua with the Scrovegni Chapel
Escape the crowds of Venice and uncover one of Italy’s hidden gems with our tour of historic Padua. Home to one of the world’s oldest universities, Padua also boasts the magnificent pilgrimage basilica of Saint Anthony and one of the most important landmarks of the early Renaissance - Giotto’s Scrovegni Chapel. This city is a treasure trove of art, history, and culture that is simply unmissable. Accompanied by an expert local guide, you’ll meander through the enchanting medieval streets, explore an 800-year-old covered market, and admire a dazzling array of sculptures, frescoes, and architectural wonders. Located just half an hour from Venice, Padua is a perfect day trip from the Floating City.
- Tour Duration: 3.5 hours
- Group Size: This is a private tour, so will be reserved just for you and your group.
We hope we’ve given you some inspiration to help you plan your trip to Venice! Through Eternity Tours offer a range of insider itineraries in the Floating City, so if you’re visiting Venice this year check out our website or get in touch with our expert travel planners today!