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- Private ride
- Shared ride
- Sunset ride
- Canal tours
- Budget ride
- Night ride
- Gondola and gondoliers
- Serenade ride
- Romantic ride
Venice Gondola Tours
Discover Venice's enchanting waterways on a traditional gondola with the flexibility to choose a ride that suits you best.
- Gondolier-assigned seating is ideal for solo travelers. Select a historic route under the Bridge of Sighs, connecting the Doge's Palace to its prisons!
- Want to share a ride with your travel buddies? Select the guaranteed seating options to ensure you're in the same boat.
- Hear the legends behind all the Venetian landmarks you will pass with live bilingual commentary or a digital app in 7 languages.
- Marvel at the domes of Santa Maria della Salute, the waterfront entrance of the Peggy Guggenheim House Museum, and more.
Discover Venice's enchanting waterways on a traditional gondola with the flexibility to choose a ride that suits you best.
- Gondolier-assigned seating is ideal for solo travelers. Select a historic route under the Bridge of Sighs, connecting the Doge's Palace to its prisons!
- Want to share a ride with your travel buddies? Select the guaranteed seating options to ensure you're in the same boat.
- Hear the legends behind all the Venetian landmarks you will pass with live bilingual commentary or a digital app in 7 languages.
- Marvel at the domes of Santa Maria della Salute, the waterfront entrance of the Peggy Guggenheim House Museum, and more.
Inclusions
- 20 or 30-min shared gondola ride in Venice
- Gondola and seat assigned by the gondolier
- Special route under the Bridge of Sighs (if selected)
- Seating guaranteed in the same gondola (if selected)
- Live commentary in English and Italian (if selected)
- Digital app audio commentary in Spanish, German, Japanese, Russian, Chinese, French & Hindi (if selected)
Exclusions
- Headphones (ensure you bring your own)
- Tip: This experience starts just around the corner from St. Mark's Basilica. Combine your visits and tick off 2 bucket list items in 1 day!
- Please note that the ride includes a 20-min introduction and the entire experience could last up to 50 mins total, depending on weather and canal traffic.
- Seating arrangements inside the gondola may vary for balance. This means you might not be able to sit next to your travel partner(s).
- This experience is not accessible for wheelchair users.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Reviews
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4.2
2,165 ratings
1.3K
414
151
117
192
Guests from United States, United Kingdom, France and over 57 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Yolyvette
May 2025Verified booking
The gondola ride was memorable. It took about 30 minutes. We did a mini walking tour beforehand and learned some interesting Venice facts. There was also a virtual experience attraction after the gondola ride that we had to miss.
Saravanan
Apr 2025Verified booking
Traditional gondola with a 20 min ride around the smaller canals of Venice. An audio commentary could have made it more enjoyable.
Mogli
Apr 2025Verified booking
Beautiful experience, it makes you seeVenice from a totally different point of view. The girl who was our guide (bilingual tour) was very nice and friendly, not only introduced the gondola experience, but told some interesting facts about the city and the areas visited. Nice and really skillful gondolier, he also reserved some "tidbits" for us. All concluded with the virtual reality experience in a different historical context, which was a nice icing on the cake
View original review in Italian
Konstantin
Jun 2025Verified booking
We didn't have an audio tour. The on-site organization was not up to scratch (we changed the boarding location twice).
View original review in French
Emma
Jun 2025Verified booking
The description said that the experience would last 50 minutes but it lasted maybe 20 max. The line to get on the gondola was very long and so we didn't actually get on one until 2:25 (was supposed to be 2) and then it was done by 2:45. It's fine if it's only 20 minutes, but then you should advertise it as such
Laura
May 2025Verified booking
The ride was said to be with live commentary in Spanish but it was not and it lasted less than 50 minutes...still good because the gondola ride is unique but I would not repeat here.
View original review in Spanish
Rachael
May 2025Verified booking
While we booked an English speaking your. We were grouped with a spanish/English guide. I felt that the English translation was brief and rush through not providing all of the same information. The audio speakers were very crackled and we were unable to hear fully.
Kai
May 2025Verified booking
Planning was good and fast. They all set off at the same time and that's why the gondolas were jammed. This meant you couldn't travel as far. It was still a nice experience, but a start with individual gondolas from the city center would be better
View original review in German
Gabrielle
May 2025Verified booking
The ticketing experience was very easy, fast and reliable. The gondola ride was really amazing and the boat man was friendly and welcoming. Would definitely do it again 😁
Nicole
Apr 2025Verified booking
we booked a tour with personal comments but the guide said absolutly nothing. The boad tour was ok and we knew that it would be a busy time of the day but that the guide did not explain anything was not what we expected.
Claudia
Apr 2025Verified booking
Tour guide very nice and helpful, time frame was different than expected, at the beginning we had doubts whether we were in the right group as we walked past two gondola boarding points without getting on. The ride was entertaining and nice, but it was very crowded, so we had to stand in line and wait a lot in the gondola. We were only given the audio guide when we asked for it. This was when we boarded the gondola, so the download was not quite complete and not all points could be heard. The virtual journey into the Venetian past with VR glasses was very positive, it wasn't booked separately but was very nice and was also offered afterwards. Overall, the gondola ride is to be recommended, it is somehow part of a visit to Venice.
View original review in German
Jessica
Apr 2025Verified booking
It was by far the best thing I did in Venice & was so inexpensive compared to paying actual Gondola people, well worth the money! There is a 3D tour at the end, was so good!
CELIA
Apr 2025Verified booking
We really enjoyed the experience. The virtual reality at the beginning was very good and the gondola ride was very nice, the gondolier was very pleasant.
View original review in Spanish
Tun
Mar 2025Verified booking
There was nothing standing out from this experience, just a very quiet gondola ride. I understand that this is not a guided tour but the gondolier could have made a warm welcome (he said nothing during the whole ride), talked a bit about what we were seeing and where we were passing (but not a full historical details).
OUMAIMA
Jun 2025Verified booking
Topissime, especially with the guide who was very human, smiling, just adorable 🥰
View original review in French
Benjamin
Jun 2025Verified booking
The guide was kind, attentive, and joyful.
Jean
Jun 2025Verified booking
Magnificent ride through the canals. Godoluer pilots by the millimeter and whistles beautifully.
View original review in French
Alexandre
May 2025Verified booking
Everything went well. We were taken to the Gondola at the appointed time. A great experience!
View original review in Portuguese
Filipa
May 2025Verified booking
We really enjoyed it, it was great! It's worth it
View original review in Portuguese
Deborah
May 2025Verified booking
Beautiful gondola ride! Very enjoyable.
Bernardo
May 2025Verified booking
We loved it just as we expected.
View original review in Spanish
Raghav
May 2025Verified booking
Loved it awedome so good so good love it so awesome will do it again
Marianne
Apr 2025Verified booking
Emma was fantastic. Such a lovely bubbly positive person. You are lucky to have her. Thank you Emma
Earnest
Apr 2025Verified booking
Had to share with 3 other people, not very long but for the price $39 ,worth it
mathieu
Apr 2025Verified booking
Discover the city from a different angle.
View original review in French
An intimate experience with your chosen crew! Peacefully unravel the meandering canals of Venice on a private gondola.
- Fancy an exclusive getaway with loved ones? The opportunity to snap away at stunning waterfront architecture? Look no further.
- Pass by the glamorous Fenice Theater and the white stone Rialto Bridge – the oldest of its kind spanning the Grand Canal.
- This private ride is perfect for families with little ones, small friend groups, or simply two lovers on a quiet escape!
An intimate experience with your chosen crew! Peacefully unravel the meandering canals of Venice on a private gondola.
- Fancy an exclusive getaway with loved ones? The opportunity to snap away at stunning waterfront architecture? Look no further.
- Pass by the glamorous Fenice Theater and the white stone Rialto Bridge – the oldest of its kind spanning the Grand Canal.
- This private ride is perfect for families with little ones, small friend groups, or simply two lovers on a quiet escape!
Inclusions
- 30-minute gondola ride in Venice
- Private group of up to 5 guests per gondola
- Tip: Look out for the impressive external spiral staircase at Contarini del Bovolo Palace, near St. Mark's Square.
- Please note that the ride could last less than 30 minutes depending on weather and canal traffic.
- The ride will only be canceled in case of extreme weather conditions or a gondolier strike.
- This experience is not accessible for wheelchair users.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Reviews
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3.7
172 ratings
78
23
28
19
24
Guests from United States, Spain, Austria and over 26 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Babur
Jun 2025Verified booking
Ride was good but not 50 minutes as advertised. Max about 30 minutes.
Andreas
May 2025Verified booking
In principle, it was good. But unfortunately much shorter than expected. More like a 20-minute drive.
View original review in German
Jennifer
Jun 2025Verified booking
Anya
Jun 2025Verified booking
David
May 2025Verified booking
Christian
May 2025Verified booking
Ayesha
May 2025Verified booking
Lance
May 2025Verified booking
Abhishek
May 2025Verified booking
Nishanth
Apr 2025Verified booking
Gabriela
Apr 2025Verified booking
PAULINE
Apr 2025Verified booking
Jonas
Apr 2025Verified booking
Toutouzis
Apr 2025Verified booking
Marta
Apr 2025Verified booking
Bryant
Apr 2025Verified booking
Judith
Mar 2025Verified booking
Kevin
Mar 2025Verified booking
Nicolas
Jun 2025Verified booking
We were disappointed by the gondola tour, apart from the fact that we only spent 20 minutes on the water, the tour was very short and the gondolier did the bare minimum. Although I'd recommend doing it, as it's something to be done under different conditions. Too bad for a ticket bought at full price without negotiation for 50 minutes ....
View original review in French
SIMONE
May 2025Verified booking
The gondolier was on the phone the whole time of the ride, we were stopped many minutes, and the ride was a rectangle of a few hundred meters around the block.
View original review in Italian
Mariia
Apr 2025Verified booking
Góndola ride was something I was waiting for in Venice, it was beautiful, but the most disappointing part that instead for 30 mins for which I paid big money, we got just 20 mins. Maybe the gondoliers there just doing in that way to take more client during the day, but for me is not acceptable, if in description of experience saying 30 mins, should be full 30 mins, and I'm not saying that we had to wait another hour, as when we came at our time 5pm, they said the closest time they could get us is at 6pm, even that I booked that time months in advance
Angela
Apr 2025Verified booking
I always wanted a gondola ride so that happened. The person who issued our voucher wrote down a price on it that was 1/2 of what we paid. The gondolier said we only paid for a ride in the grand canal. We agreed to pay $45 more to receive a 45 minute ride in side canals. He still only gave us a 30 minute ride yet expected more money. We could have negotiated a better experience on our own. You ripped us off, shame on you
Mario
Apr 2025Verified booking
The tour must have lasted 15 minutes! Then I had chosen the package that included the tour under the Rialto Bridge instead I was told it was not possible! We came out of the gondola parking lot, went straight down the canal for a few minutes then the gondolier turned around, went into a little alley and when we came out the other side he took us back down! 147 euros thrown to the wind! Ah to be fair, it was a beautiful day with no wind and no traffic! There were no excuses! I am very disappointed
View original review in Italian
Ana
May 2025Verified booking
Mike
Jun 2025Verified booking
Unfortunately, the gondola ride was only 30 minutes instead of 50 minutes as booked. Due to the rain, the seats in the gondola were soaking wet and were not wiped dry like in the other boats. As the departure had to be very quick, we sat on the wet seats and our clothes were soaked through to our underwear!!!!!
View original review in German
Lovers in tune, have a pitch-perfect romance on this harmonious gondola cruise through the floating city of Venice.
- Sprinkle a bit of magic onto your date with that special someone as you’re serenaded by a live singer and musician!
- Sway to the medley as you find hidden gems in liquid Venetian alleys – like the quaint limestone Bridge of Sighs over the Rio del Palazzo.
- Keep an eye out for the mesmerizing façade of Ca' d'Oro, a Gothic palace-turned-art museum along the Grand Canal.
Lovers in tune, have a pitch-perfect romance on this harmonious gondola cruise through the floating city of Venice.
- Sprinkle a bit of magic onto your date with that special someone as you’re serenaded by a live singer and musician!
- Sway to the medley as you find hidden gems in liquid Venetian alleys – like the quaint limestone Bridge of Sighs over the Rio del Palazzo.
- Keep an eye out for the mesmerizing façade of Ca' d'Oro, a Gothic palace-turned-art museum along the Grand Canal.
Inclusions
- 30-minute gondola ride in Venice
- Live singer aboard one of the gondolas
- Gondola and seat assigned by the gondolier
- Tip: Embrace the Venetian lifestyle and go for a traditional aperitivo after your gondola ride. Join the locals at a canal-side bar for cicchetti (Venetian tapas)!
- The serenade performers will board a gondola in the center of the row so everyone can hear the music. Musicians may not be on every gondola.
- Please note that the ride could last less than 30 minutes depending on weather and canal traffic.
- Seating arrangements inside the gondola may vary for balance. This means you might not be able to sit next to your travel partner(s).
- This experience is not accessible for wheelchair users.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Reviews
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4.3
1,004 ratings
717
113
58
26
90
Guests from United States, India, Spain and over 10 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Patricia
Jun 2025Verified booking
Kuznetsova
Apr 2025Verified booking
Irene
Apr 2025Verified booking
I wanted a gondola ride for my group of 4 with serenade in our gondola and wrote several times to Headout to make sure of it. This experience is with groups of 5 people per gondola and group of several gondolas. The singer rides in the center gondola with the lucky people who get to ride with him. In our case our gondolier put us last in the group and you could hardly hear him. I also took a ride on the Grand Canal which is not like that, they cross it to the other side to join all the gondolas and face each other to enter the 1st alley and do not do a tour or explanation of the buildings of the Grand Canal. It also includes a virtual 3D experience of old Venice in English and a small explanation also in English from your guide until you reach the gondola and although all the guides speak Spanish and half of the group we were Spanish speakers did not feel like speaking in both languages. I do not recommend it at all. A gondola there costs 90€ per group of 5 people.
View original review in Spanish
Nicole
May 2025Verified booking
This is a really rubbish attempt at what could be a brilliant experience in Venice. You CANNOT hear the music. The goldalas make a long train behind and if you're near the back? Tough luck. Any whispers you might of heard can't be because the drivers are shouting to each other. Not romantic, not a serenade and just a money grabbing organisation. The experience was over in 15 minutes and was both underwhelming and unpleasent.
Amani
Jun 2025Verified booking
Stupid tour, makes no sense to spend this much for this crappy experience.
Gracy
Apr 2025Verified booking
Claudia
Sep 2024Verified booking
The Gondolas where beautiful. The gondola guys where amazing , fun , and handsome. The music and the singer was just mesmerizing. It was the perfect Venice experience, and the Best thing we did at Venice you guys made our trip to Venice the focus of our experience. Thank you.
Maria
Oct 2024Verified booking
Highly recommended. The whole ride was very pleasant.
View original review in Spanish
Edward
Nov 2024Verified booking
Musians were outstanding. Great experience
Phillip
Oct 2024Verified booking
Singer was great. Ride smooth. Your team helped me get out of Gondola. I use a cane. Really appreciate that
Lucille
Oct 2024Verified booking
Alessio
Oct 2024Verified booking
Minh-Chau
Sep 2024Verified booking
Claudia
Oct 2024Verified booking
Unfortunately, the gondoliers were quite unfriendly. For the price of €150, we thought we had booked a gondola with a singer. However, it is a group of gondolas and there is a singer on one of the gondolas. It is mass processing. At the end, a gondolier got cheeky because my husband wasn't quick enough with the tip. Then there was nothing. Tip: better during the day and without a singer - book directly on site! It's much cheaper and certainly no worse!
View original review in German
Jonathan
Sep 2024Verified booking
It was a fun experience and we got to hear the singer even though we were in the first boat. The duration wasn't even close to 30 minutes though. Our time was 6:30 and we spent 5-10 waiting on the main canal for all the other boats and then the actual ride was maybe 10 minutes long. We did one route thru a small canal and came back to the dock at 6:45. All that for 105 euros.... Wouldn't recommend and wouldn't repeat
Michael
Oct 2024Verified booking
There was nothing to love about the experience. When we arrived at the meeting point there was someone who told us the 6:30 pm ride was cancelled because of rainy weather. I called the local tour partner number to tell them and ask for a refund and their office was closed. I also tried to call the toll free number at head out and the call was answered by what sounded like a fax machine. Please refund my cancellation amount to my American Express card ending with 11002. We had to leave Venice this morning to return to America.
Virginia
Oct 2024Verified booking
I expected a gondola ride into the sunset, as this was a sunset ride. Instead, the sunset was behind us most of the time. The gondolas grouped up with others to listen to a women singing with a guitar accompaniment. There was no singer on our gondola. This ride took around 20 to 25 minuets, not even a half an hour. Once the woman stopped singing, we were taken back to land. We didn't even go anywhere. Total Rip-Off!
Hannah
Oct 2024Verified booking
It was supposed to be a serenade gondala ride and there was no music. No gondolier sang.
Hitesh
Oct 2024Verified booking
Not good only 1 Senerade for 5 boat and not at all hear him. Also hardly 15-20 mins ride
Vito
Sep 2024Verified booking
Fantastic experience , fantastic staff , friendly and helpful romantic and refined music , elegant to be able to surprise your woman , price . if you book online you find very affordable prices ☺️ thanks again to all the staf .
View original review in Italian
Irma
Sep 2024Verified booking
Very complimentary and the experience for me and my husband was wonderful we loved it very much it was private and the serenade .. we really lived it was the package I booked. I was a little afraid because of the bad comments I had read but I think that everyone lives their experience differently....
View original review in Spanish
Carla
Jul 2024Verified booking
It was supposed to be a serenade and it was supposed to go in the middle but in reality it went much further and the music was barely audible. My biggest complaint is that they put a lot of emphasis on couples and not families. I took my mom to fulfill her dream of seeing Venice and they separated us in the gondola (something we already knew could happen) but then at the top of the gondola they wanted to change me to leave the couple together saying that it was more important than leaving a mother and daughter together. That was uncomfortable and annoying.
View original review in Spanish
Attal
Jul 2024Verified booking
Excellent performance The music was a real plus, and the singer was a budding Pavarotti. One small drawback: the tour did not include the Bridge of Sighs To be repeated
View original review in French
Ilinca
Jul 2024Verified booking
Everythingooooooooooooooooooooooooooo
View original review in Italian
David
Jun 2024Verified booking
Easy meetup and unique and fun experience. We enjoyed the gondola ride and the musicians were great.
Take a guided tour of one of the most famous landmarks in Venice & enjoy a gondola ride after.
- Get priority access to St. Mark’s Basilica and marvel at its rich history and architectural beauty during a 1.5-hour guided tour.
- Admire intricate Byzantine mosaics, domes, and marble columns as your expert guide enthralls you with fascinating stories of this cultural icon.
- Enjoy a classic Venetian gondola ride and glide along canals to experience the city from its famous waterways.
Take a guided tour of one of the most famous landmarks in Venice & enjoy a gondola ride after.
- Get priority access to St. Mark’s Basilica and marvel at its rich history and architectural beauty during a 1.5-hour guided tour.
- Admire intricate Byzantine mosaics, domes, and marble columns as your expert guide enthralls you with fascinating stories of this cultural icon.
- Enjoy a classic Venetian gondola ride and glide along canals to experience the city from its famous waterways.
Inclusions
- Skip-the-line entry to St. Mark’s Basilica
- Guide tour of St. Mark’s Basilica
- Gondola ride along Venice’s canals and waterways
- Expert English-speaking local guide
Exclusions
- Transportation
- Meals
- Gratuities
- Your tickets guarantee priority access to St. Mark's Basilica but there might be a short wait at security.
- Wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees when you visit the basilica as it is a religious site.
- Seating arrangements within a gondola may vary for balance and safety reasons. Therefore, it may not be possible to sit next to your partner(s).
- Please note that the tour may not operate under exceptional high tide conditions or during religious functions at the basilica. In the event of cancellation, your tour will either be rescheduled or refunded for your convenience.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
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What our guests say
Dr.
Mar 2025Verified booking
Martin
Jan 2025Verified booking
The guide was dificult to keep up with and quite difficult to understand. The guide had no interest in assisting us with the next part of our booking - the Gondola ride. THe booking dstated that we had a 2.5 hour experience. It actually turned out to be about one hour in the Basicila follwed by a 3.5 hour gap before a 20 minute gondola ride. Nowhere were we informed that this gap existed - I had to ring hte service number to speak to a representative who informed me tha thte gondola ride was taking place miud afternoon. This required us to rearrange our plans for our group of 10 people for hte remainder of the day.
KATHERINE
Mar 2025Verified booking
Samuel
Jan 2025Verified booking
irish
Jul 2024Verified booking
our guide speaks English but it was so hard for our party of 7 to understand him, he speaks so fast and his accent is strong, we were not able to ubderstand most if what he was saying. the head phones they provided are not the best either. for the price we paid, would be nice if we get our money's worth but did not.
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Aug 2024Verified booking
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Enjoy some of Venice's best sights on foot and by boat, from St. Mark's Square to Rialto Bridge and Fenice Theater.
- Gain fascinating insights on Venetian history and culture on a walking tour along iconic churches, bridges, and shopping streets.
- Then, glide through the canals on a 30-minute gondola ride, admiring majestic palaces and historic buildings lining its banks.
- Take a leisurely break in-between to savor the sights, sounds, and flavors of the city. Indulge in local delicacies or capture memorable photos.
Enjoy some of Venice's best sights on foot and by boat, from St. Mark's Square to Rialto Bridge and Fenice Theater.
- Gain fascinating insights on Venetian history and culture on a walking tour along iconic churches, bridges, and shopping streets.
- Then, glide through the canals on a 30-minute gondola ride, admiring majestic palaces and historic buildings lining its banks.
- Take a leisurely break in-between to savor the sights, sounds, and flavors of the city. Indulge in local delicacies or capture memorable photos.
Inclusions
- 2-hour walking tour of Venice
- Expert English, Italian, Spanish, German or French-speaking guide
- 30-minute shared gondola ride
- Tip: Take advantage of spectacular photo ops as you get remarkable views of Doge's Palace and St. Marks’ Bell Tower.
- This activity includes a shared gondola ride of up to 5 people. Seating arrangements within a gondola may vary for balance and safety reasons.
- This experience is not accessible for wheelchair users.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Reviews
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4.3
451 ratings
269
115
23
8
36
Guests from United States, Germany, United Kingdom and over 13 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Yuliia
May 2025Verified booking
Amazing, we liked our captain and how highly experienced he was
Donna
May 2025Verified booking
The tour itself was great as was a the gondola ride! Both the guide and the gondolier were very pleasant. Our issue was with the male staff member at your meeting point. Admittedly, we were late for the tour as we had trouble navigating from our cruise ship to the meeting point. When I asked him where we could meet them, he very reluctantly gave me an address for my google maps and sent us on our way WITHOUT THE HEADSET. His complete attitude from the first moment was rude and condescending.
Julie
May 2025Verified booking
Marco, our waking tour guide was amazing. His dry wit made the tour super enjoyable. We also enjoyed the gondola ride, we had great weather for it!
Bruna
Apr 2025Verified booking
The walking tour was very interesting, but the gondola tour was terrible, the gondolier didn't even say hello during the ride.
View original review in Portuguese
Andrew
Apr 2025Verified booking
Ticketing and walking tour was good. Gondola ride was so-so.
Maria
Apr 2025Verified booking
It was a great experience and very informativ
Wita
May 2025Verified booking
Paul
May 2025Verified booking
Harini
May 2025Verified booking
SHERWIN
May 2025Verified booking
Salvador
May 2025Verified booking
Myrthe
May 2025Verified booking
Ximena
May 2025Verified booking
Guida
Apr 2025Verified booking
Stephen
Apr 2025Verified booking
Maribell
Apr 2025Verified booking
Mak
Apr 2025Verified booking
Nancy
May 2025Verified booking
The tour guide never showed up & we were very disappointed. We waited for over an hour & asked 10 different people if that was the correct location & we confirmed we were at the correct address & no guide showed. I would appreciate a refund since we were left abandoned waiting for someone to show up. Very unprofessional! We are very disappointed & I spent good money on a tour that didn't happen. Show
Sophia
Apr 2025Verified booking
The meeting point wasn't specific. The maps gave us two different locations, so we kept going back and forth trying to find the group. At one point, we were at the right spot 5 minutes before the tour started, but I guess the group left early. The tour guide should’ve had a flag or worn specific clothing. My friend and I are still waiting for a refund.
Anette
Mar 2025Verified booking
The city tour was excellent! Unfortunately the gondola ride was disappointing, the gondolier was very unfriendly and obviously didn't feel like it.
View original review in German
Silvia
Dec 2024Verified booking
Jörg
Nov 2024Verified booking
The city tour was competent and very informative, entertaining and fun. The technology worked well and the guide was easy to understand. The pace of the tour was appropriate. The subsequent gondola ride was somewhat shortened and not the route as advertised but quite okay.
View original review in German
Katherine
Oct 2024Verified booking
I took the train up from Florence to spend the day in Venice. The walking tour was quite informative, and our guide was very knowledgeable and quite pleasant she kept us altogether in the crowded streets of Venice. The gondola ride was quite nice. It was a very good way to check out Venice in a day.
Adeteju
Oct 2024Verified booking
Awesome experience!!!..........
ANTONELA
Oct 2024Verified booking
Very good experience and good attention from everyone, we loved it!
View original review in Spanish
Explore the best of Venice as you skip the lines to St. Mark's Basilica and Doge's Palace.
- Glide through historic canals on a 30-minute gondola ride, led by an expert gondolier who shares captivating stories.
- Learn all about the history of St. Mark's and the political significance of the Doge's Palace from an expert English-speaking guide.
- Pick what suits your plan; a half or full-day trip. Extend your journey into the colorful towns of Murano and Burano Islands.
- With an optional visit to the islands, be ready to immerse in the artisanal magic of glass-blowing and lace-making workshops.
Explore the best of Venice as you skip the lines to St. Mark's Basilica and Doge's Palace.
- Glide through historic canals on a 30-minute gondola ride, led by an expert gondolier who shares captivating stories.
- Learn all about the history of St. Mark's and the political significance of the Doge's Palace from an expert English-speaking guide.
- Pick what suits your plan; a half or full-day trip. Extend your journey into the colorful towns of Murano and Burano Islands.
- With an optional visit to the islands, be ready to immerse in the artisanal magic of glass-blowing and lace-making workshops.
Inclusions
- Full/half-day tour of Venice (as per option selected)
- Guided tour of St. Mark's Basilica with skip-the-line entry
- Guided tour of Doge's Palace with skip-the-line entry
- Expert English-speaking guide
- 30-minute shared gondola ride
- Round-trip transfers to/from Murano & Burano Islands (optional)
- Glass-blowing demonstration (optional)
- Lace-making demonstration (optional)
Half-day tour
- St Marks Basilica
- Doge's Palace
- 30-minute gondola ride
Full-day tour
- St Marks Basilica
- Doge's Palace
- 30-minute gondola ride
- Glass-blowing demonstration at Murano Island
- Lace-making demonstration at Burano Island
- Tip: Take advantage of the local expert knowledge! Request your gondolier to point out the lesser-known sights along the canals.
St. Mark's Basilica
- Strict dress code: All guests must wear clothing that covers their shoulders and knees to enter the basilica.
- Keep your camera tucked away – photography is strictly not allowed at the venue.
- This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
- A ramp is available at the Porta del Fiori (Door of Flowers) entrance on the left-hand side of the basilica.
- The Museum on the upper floor of the basilica is served by both a lift and stair lifts.
Doge's Palace
- Shutterbugs, take note: Flash photography, tripods, selfie sticks, and any type of commercial photography is a no-go inside the venue.
- Please note that the Secret Itineraries, Prisons and Armory are not wheelchair accessible.
Venice Gondola Ride
- Seating arrangements within a gondola may vary for balance and safety reasons, it may not be possible to sit next to your partner.
- The gondola ride is not accessible for wheelchair users.
- Please note that the tour may not operate under exceptional high tide conditions or during religious functions at the basilica. In the event of cancellation, your tour will either be rescheduled or refunded for your convenience.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Reviews
How do we collect reviews?
Snapshots from our guests
4.4
63 ratings
39
17
4
0
3
Guests from United States, Australia, Portugal and over 19 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Alain
Jun 2025Verified booking
Very knowledgeable guide, jovial and experienced, magnificent historic site, full day, disappointed with the gondola tour, too many gondolas on the canal, extreme traffic and no narrative.
View original review in French
Lynne
May 2025Verified booking
We only had one day to see Venice This tour is the way to go! We got to visit the Murano Glass factory and the Dogi Palace was unbelievable Our tour guides gave us so much history of Venice it made our trip unforgettable. The gondola ride at the end was very nice even though u had to share the ride. Gondolier was also giving us history besides singing 😎 Thank you for the memories ❤️
IBRAHIM
May 2025Verified booking
The guide Philippe was good and funny. He kept us engaged with questions
GIUSEPPE
Apr 2025Verified booking
Well organized, well explained, very helpful
View original review in Italian
Erik
May 2025Verified booking
Maria
May 2025Verified booking
Jessica
Apr 2025Verified booking
Regina
Apr 2025Verified booking
gerzsenyi-rozier
Apr 2025Verified booking
Yosephine
Mar 2025Verified booking
Daniel
Mar 2025Verified booking
Cheryl
Mar 2025Verified booking
Miss
Mar 2025Verified booking
William
Feb 2025Verified booking
Ivana
Feb 2025Verified booking
Monique
Dec 2024Verified booking
Phillipe and CC were amazing. They have so much knowledge and really knew how to make it interesting. Such an amazing tour , really captures all the great aspects of Venice. Loved the glass making factory and the demonstration was amazing. Highly recommend this tour. From start to finish.
CHAI
Sep 2024Verified booking
Everything was well timed and explained well by our guide. No complaints. Perfect. Don't hesitate to get this tour when in Venice!
Rolf
Nov 2024Verified booking
Everything was about as expected, so everything was ok
View original review in German
Coco
Oct 2024Verified booking
Raymond
Oct 2024Verified booking
Jorge
Oct 2024Verified booking
Triin
Sep 2024Verified booking
VISHAL
Sep 2024Verified booking
Sofia
Sep 2024Verified booking
Vasileios
Sep 2024Verified booking
Why take a Venice gondola tour?
Unique vantage point
As you drift along the waterways, you'll witness daily life unfolding along the picturesque shores, providing a glimpse into the heart and soul of this city. Plus, many of Venice's most picturesque canals are only accessible by gondola, allowing you to discover the city's hidden beauty away from the bustling crowds.
Your Venice gondola ticket options
Shared gondola ride in Venice
Duration: 30 minutes
Suitable for: Budget/solo travelers
- While seating is based on the gondolier’s discretion, you can opt for same-gondola seating for groups of up to 5.
- Upgrade your ticket for live commentary in English/Italian. You can also choose digital app commentary in Spanish, German, Japanese, Chinese, Russian, French and Hindi. There is also an option to upgrade your ticket to include a special route under the Bridge of Sighs.
Recommended tour
Private gondola ride in Venice
Duration: 30 minutes
Suitable for: Families/small groups/couples
- If you’re seeking the ultimate group experience, choose the private gondola option so you can all be in the same boat — pun intended.
- With this private tour, even if your group comprises 2-3 members, the gondola is still reserved only for you.
- Spot unmissable Venetian highlights like the spiral staircase of the Contarini del Bovolo Palace near St. Marks Square, or the Teatro la Fenice.
Recommended tour
Gondola ride with live entertainment
Duration: 30 minutes
Suitable for: Couples
- Enhance your experience with an authentic twist; allow a gondolier to serenade you on the glistening waters of the canal.
- Choose between groups seating or random seating based on how you are traveling — with a group or solo.
Recommended Tour
Combo tours
Duration: 2-9 hours
Suitable for: First timers/those on a tight timeline
- Want to see the best of Venice on limited time and a budget? Combo tours are your best friend. Booking these tours also helps you save on tickets you'd otherwise spend individually at these attractions.
- Get skip-the-line tickets to attractions like the Doge's Palace and more.
Recommended tours
From happy customers
Yolyvette
Canadamei, 2025
The gondola ride was memorable. It took about 30 minutes. We did a mini walking tour beforehand and learned some interesting Venice facts. There was also a virtual experience attraction after the gondola ride that we had to miss.
Venice Classic Gondola Ride
Karin
feb, 2025
Very good service, the gondolier helped us on and off as we had someone with walking difficulties.
View original review in German
Venice Classic Gondola Ride
Lillian
jan, 2019
The ride was quite nice, it was still daylight when we went but it didn't hamper the experience. The musician was talented and the whole system of shared gondolas surprisingly worked.
Venice Gondola Serenade with Carnival Mask
Neil
aug, 2018
If you don't get a good gondolier, they can make your experience less enjoyable since they over talk over each other and compete on completing their rides. We suggest not going on the main strip, but go on the side streets since it won't be so busy.
Venice Gondola Serenade with Carnival Mask
Anette
Germanymrt, 2025
The city tour was excellent!
Unfortunately the gondola ride was disappointing, the gondolier was very unfriendly and obviously didn't feel like it.
View original review in German
Venice Walking Tour with Grand Canal Gondola Ride
Jörg
Germanynov, 2024
The city tour was competent and very informative, entertaining and fun. The technology worked well and the guide was easy to understand. The pace of the tour was appropriate.
The subsequent gondola ride was somewhat shortened and not the route as advertised but quite okay.
View original review in German
Venice Walking Tour with Grand Canal Gondola Ride
Frances
United Statesjun, 2024
We always try to do something interesting on our first day in a new place to get an overview and our bearings. Thought it would be a gondola ride in Venice but in reading travel blogs, a motorboat ride through the grand grand canal sounded better. So we took a chance and loved it. Our guide was fabulous and really knew her stuff. Got to see an awful lot in an hour. Have to say that without google maps we would never have found the ticket office. It would have been nice to have a little more info re: location on the webpage.
1-Hour Sightseeing Cruise on the Grand Canal
Lela
jan, 2018
This is the first website that referred me this tour and that too at such a cheap rate. I am glad i took their suggestion. It was awesome!
1-Hour Sightseeing Cruise on the Grand Canal
How to choose the best gondola ride
Ride type
Seating
Boarding points
Timings
Attractions covered
Features
Book tickets
Venice classic gondola ride
Shared/random
Near St. Marks Square
10am to 6:20pm. Timings vary according to the dates selected.
Peggy Guggenheim Museum, Santa Maria della Salute
Option to avail live commentary and pass by the Bridge of Sighs. Economic gondola ride.
Venice private gondola ride
Just you and your group
Near St. Marks Square
9am to 7:30pm
Teatro la Fenice, Rialto Bridge
Benefit of traveling with your cohort whether it is a group of friends or family.
Venice gondola ride with serenade
Shared/random
Near St. Marks Square
6:30pm
Ca' d'Oro, Bridge of Sighs
Authentic ride experience with Italian gondolier to serenade the guests.
Venice gondola route map
Most gondolas navigate the routes around the St. Marks Square, although some may choose to dip in and out of internal canals to escape canal traffic. In case of the latter, you might stand a chance to catch sight of hidden gems, like the famous Bridge of Sighs. Note that these routes are fluid and not predetermined, so the route a gondola may be following today might not be the same as the one it follows the next day. Route variations are also subject to changes in water levels and weather conditions.
Boarding points
Most of these experiences begin around St. Marks Square, although the Rialto Bridge and the Grand Canal are popular boarding points as well.
Here are some popular stations around St. Marks Square.
Campo San Gallo
This popular ferry station is where you can begin experiences like the shared or classic gondola ride.
Alilaguna and Bucintoro Viaggi
This boarding point is a favorite among those seeking private rides. Alilaguna and Bucintoro Viaggi is a travel company that arranges ferries and other transportation services in Venice.
Campo S. Zaccaria
This station also doubles as a ferry station. Enjoy a serenade ride by boarding from this pier.
Plan your Venice gondola tour
Timings
Experience
Tips
Gondola rides typically begin after 9 AM and end late night, sometimes going up to even 3 AM.
When to take a Venice gondola tour
If you wish to escape the crowds, taking a gondola ride early in the morning offers a relaxed and serene experience. However, many shops and establishments on the waterfront may still be closed. For the dreamy gondola experience, get on board during sunset or after twilight and watch the stars’ reflection on the glistening waters. However, note that these are the busiest times and you will encounter traffic in the canals.
Detailed gondola ride timings
- Arrival and boarding: Utilize Google Maps to easily locate your gondola ride's boarding point. These points are typically found near major landmarks such as the St. Mark's Basilica or along the Grand Canal. Once you reach, look for your gondolier, who will be traditionally dressed in black pants, a striped shirt, and dark shoes, embodying the classic Venetian style.
- The ride: Your gondola will pass by iconic Venetian landmarks. The Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica are just a couple of the architectural marvels you'll see from a perspective that only a gondola can provide from its unique vantage point.
- Return to boarding point: After a tranquil exploration of Venice's canals, your gondolier will navigate back to the original boarding point. This seamless return allows you to continue your Venetian adventure on foot.
- If you want the best photos, consider taking a morning gondola ride — before 11 AM — for good lighting.
- It's always better to chat up a few gondoliers to see whether they're a fit for you. More often than not, gondoliers are happy to share with you tidbits on the city.
- While tipping the gondolier is not compulsory, it is a good gesture to thank the gondolier for the company and experience.
- Summers can get quite hot since you’re directly under the sun. Carry a hat, wear sunglasses and lather on a generous amount of sunscreen before you hop aboard.
- There's very little storage space on a gondola, so it's best to bring only what you absolutely need. Large bags, backpacks, or luggage are not recommended.
What to see while on a gondola ride in Venice
Doge's Palace
The Doge's Palace, a masterpiece of Venetian Gothic architecture, stands proudly at the heart of Venice. Once the seat of Venetian power, it exudes opulence and grandeur, housing lavish halls, magnificent artworks, and the haunting Bridge of Sighs.
Read more
Frequently asked questions about Venice gondola tickets
How much does a gondola tour in Venice cost?
The classic gondola ride starts at €30. However, prices can vary according to the ticket type. Costs can go up if you choose a private ride, combo tours, etc.
Is it better to book my gondola rides online or on-spot?
The best option is to purchase your tour online. This way, you have multiple options to choose from like shared vs private, combo tours, etc. and you don’t have to wait in long queues for a ticket. However, you can also book on-site if you want a spontaneous experience. Note that on-site booking might mean longer wait times, not finding a ride at the time of your convenience, etc.
What are the different gondola tours I can choose from?
You can choose between shared or private rides. In the former, you will be seated randomly and might have to wait for the gondola to fill up before the ride begins. In the latter, you can book out the whole gondola for you and your family/group even if the whole gondola isn't full. You can also opt for a gondola ride with serenade if you're seeking live entertainment on board. If you want to explore more of Venice, book combo tours that will give you the benefit of taking both a gondola ride and visiting top landmarks in the city.
What is the difference between a shared and private ride?
In a shared ride, the gondola will also be occupied by other people besides you and your group. The gondolier may seat you randomly, meaning you might be split from your group if your gondolier so decides. The shared ride is cheaper, starting at €30. A private ride, in contrast, is one where the entire gondola is reserved for you and your group. This means that even if the gondola isn't full to capacity i.e. doesn't have 5 passengers, the ride will still happen. Private rides start from €135 onwards.
What are the best places from where I can board a gondola in Venice?
All your gondola rides can be boarded from around St. Mark's Basilica. This spot is close to the city centre and easily accessible. However, you can board your ride from a variety of gondola stations, including the Rialto Bridge, the Jewish Ghetto and San Marco districts.
How long is a gondola ride in Venice?
A gondola ride typically lasts for about 30 minutes, although this duration may come down if there is lots of traffic in the canals. If you're seeking a longer tour, negotiate with the gondolier at the outset, although you may have to pay more.
Are guided tours available for gondola rides in Venice?
While the gondola ride per se isn't a guided experience, you can upgrade your ticket for live commentary on board. You can also book combo tickets to nearby attractions like Doge's Palace and St. Marks Basilica. You can avail guided tours to these attractions.
What is the cancelation policy for Venice gondola tickets?
You can cancel your tickets up to 24 hours in advance to get back a full refund. Rides may also be canceled in the event of bad weather or a gondolier strike.
Do all gondola rides in Venice include live serenade?
No, not all Venice gondola rides include live music. You’ll have to book a serenade ride if you are seeking this experience.
What are Venice gondola rides prices for kids?
Children under the age of two can ride for free, while all others pay full price.
What can I see in Venice while on my gondola ride?
Most tours allow you to witness St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, St. Marks’ Bell Tower, Rialto Bridge, Bridge of Sighs and Mozart House among others.
Are gondola rides in Venice wheelchair-accessible?
Unfortunately, none of these experiences are wheelchair friendly.
What is the best time to take a Venice gondola ride?
Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times to take a ride. A sunset ride is also highly recommended, even though it can get quite crowded.