Venice Gondola Tours

Multiple route options
Multiple route options
Frequent departures
Frequent departures
Scenic views
Scenic views



Select Your Experience

Venice Rialto Bridge
View of the Santa Maria della Salute Basilica from the gondola ride
Venice Bridge of Sighs
View of the Gondola ride during Carnival
Venice Gondola in canal
Tourist on Gondola ride, Venice
Peggy Guggenheim Collection
Venice Rialto Bridge
View of the Santa Maria della Salute Basilica from the gondola ride
Venice Bridge of Sighs
View of the Gondola ride during Carnival
Venice Gondola in canal
Tourist on Gondola ride, Venice
Peggy Guggenheim Collection
Venice Rialto Bridge
View of the Santa Maria della Salute Basilica from the gondola ride
Venice Bridge of Sighs
View of the Gondola ride during Carnival
Venice Gondola in canal
Tourist on Gondola ride, Venice
Peggy Guggenheim Collection
4.0(2K)

Venice Classic Gondola Ride

from
€33
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
20 min. - 30 min.

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.
Couple on venice gondola
A female tourist enjoying Gondola ride in Venice
Gondola in canals of Venice
View of Gondola on Canal Grande with Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute in Venice
View of Peggy Guggenheim from Gondola Ride
Grand Canal at sunset with Bridge Ponte dell Accademia
Gondola in canals of Venice
Couple on venice gondola
A female tourist enjoying Gondola ride in Venice
Gondola in canals of Venice
View of Gondola on Canal Grande with Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute in Venice
View of Peggy Guggenheim from Gondola Ride
Grand Canal at sunset with Bridge Ponte dell Accademia
Gondola in canals of Venice
Couple on venice gondola
A female tourist enjoying Gondola ride in Venice
Gondola in canals of Venice
View of Gondola on Canal Grande with Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute in Venice
View of Peggy Guggenheim from Gondola Ride
Grand Canal at sunset with Bridge Ponte dell Accademia
Gondola in canals of Venice
3.6(143)

Venice Private Gondola Ride

from
€135
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
30 min.

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.
Gondola with musician in grand Canal, Venice
Couple in Venice on Gondola
Gondola Ride with Serenade, Venice
People on Gondola with musician singing serenade, Venice
Singer singing for people on Gondola, Venice
Venice Gondola in canal
Couple in Venice on Gondola at Rialto Bridge9747 - Venice - Venice Grand Canal: Gondola Ride with Serenade - 06
Venice Gondola with Serenade
Venice Bridge of Sighs
Venice Rialto Bridge
Gondola with musician in grand Canal, Venice
Couple in Venice on Gondola
Gondola Ride with Serenade, Venice
People on Gondola with musician singing serenade, Venice
Singer singing for people on Gondola, Venice
Venice Gondola in canal
Couple in Venice on Gondola at Rialto Bridge9747 - Venice - Venice Grand Canal: Gondola Ride with Serenade - 06
Venice Gondola with Serenade
Venice Bridge of Sighs
Venice Rialto Bridge
Gondola with musician in grand Canal, Venice
Couple in Venice on Gondola
Gondola Ride with Serenade, Venice
People on Gondola with musician singing serenade, Venice
Singer singing for people on Gondola, Venice
Venice Gondola in canal
Couple in Venice on Gondola at Rialto Bridge9747 - Venice - Venice Grand Canal: Gondola Ride with Serenade - 06
Venice Gondola with Serenade
Venice Bridge of Sighs
Venice Rialto Bridge
4.3(998)

Venice Grand Canal: Gondola Ride with Serenade

from
€51
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
30 min.

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.
Gondola on Canal Grande with Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute
St Mark Basilica
Gondola ride through the canals of Venice
Narrow canal with gondola and bridge in Venice
La Fenice Theatre
Peggy Guggenheim Collection
Punta della Dogana Grand Canal Venice
Tour guide leading a group at St. Mark's Basilica with a gondola ride in Venice, Italy
Mosaic in the St. Mark's Basilica - Venice
Tour guide leading a group of tourists in front of St. Mark's Basilica, Venice, with skip-the-line tickets, under a clear blue sky
Gondola on Canal Grande with Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute
St Mark Basilica
Gondola ride through the canals of Venice
Narrow canal with gondola and bridge in Venice
La Fenice Theatre
Peggy Guggenheim Collection
Punta della Dogana Grand Canal Venice
Tour guide leading a group at St. Mark's Basilica with a gondola ride in Venice, Italy
Mosaic in the St. Mark's Basilica - Venice
Tour guide leading a group of tourists in front of St. Mark's Basilica, Venice, with skip-the-line tickets, under a clear blue sky
Gondola on Canal Grande with Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute
St Mark Basilica
Gondola ride through the canals of Venice
Narrow canal with gondola and bridge in Venice
La Fenice Theatre
Peggy Guggenheim Collection
Punta della Dogana Grand Canal Venice
Tour guide leading a group at St. Mark's Basilica with a gondola ride in Venice, Italy
Mosaic in the St. Mark's Basilica - Venice
Tour guide leading a group of tourists in front of St. Mark's Basilica, Venice, with skip-the-line tickets, under a clear blue sky
4.4(1.1K)

St. Mark's Basilica Guided Tour with Gondola Ride

from
€83
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
2 hr.

Tick off 2 bucket list experiences in Venice at once! Follow an expert guide through St. Mark's Basilica, then catch a famous water taxi.

  • Dive right in with skip the line access to St. Mark's Basilica, as a guide helps unveil its dazzling gold mosaics in the language of your choice.
  • Soak in the charm of Venice with a leisurely half hour gondola ride along the Grand Canal and smaller waterways near the Salute Basilica.
  • Marvel at architectural wonders like La Fenice Theatre, and the Murano glass mosaics of Palazzo Barbarigo inspired by St. Marks' Basilica!
  • Enjoy a leisurely break between tours to explore the city, taste the local treats, or simply soak up the Venetian vibes.

Tick off 2 bucket list experiences in Venice at once! Follow an expert guide through St. Mark's Basilica, then catch a famous water taxi.

  • Dive right in with skip the line access to St. Mark's Basilica, as a guide helps unveil its dazzling gold mosaics in the language of your choice.
  • Soak in the charm of Venice with a leisurely half hour gondola ride along the Grand Canal and smaller waterways near the Salute Basilica.
  • Marvel at architectural wonders like La Fenice Theatre, and the Murano glass mosaics of Palazzo Barbarigo inspired by St. Marks' Basilica!
  • Enjoy a leisurely break between tours to explore the city, taste the local treats, or simply soak up the Venetian vibes.

Inclusions

  • 1-hour guided tour of St. Mark's Basilica with skip-the-line entry
  • Expert English, Italian, Spanish, German or French-speaking guide
  • 30-minute shared gondola ride in Venice
  • Tip: Stop in at a local trattoria for an authentic Venetian Lunch, try local favorites like risotto al nero di seppia (black squid ink risotto) or fritto misto (mixed fried seafood).

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.

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(s).
  • This experience 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.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Tour group exploring St. Mark's Basilica with skip-the-line tickets in Venice, Italy
View of Doge Palace and Bell Tower from Gondola
The Santa Maria Formosa
Campo SS. Giovanni e Paolo Venice
Colorful Canal in Venice
Girl holding carnival mask in Venice
Carnival masks on display - Venice
Venice Gondola in canal
Rialto Bridge and Gondola Venice
Gondola on Canal Grande in Venice
Tour group exploring St. Mark's Basilica with skip-the-line tickets in Venice, Italy
View of Doge Palace and Bell Tower from Gondola
The Santa Maria Formosa
Campo SS. Giovanni e Paolo Venice
Colorful Canal in Venice
Girl holding carnival mask in Venice
Carnival masks on display - Venice
Venice Gondola in canal
Rialto Bridge and Gondola Venice
Gondola on Canal Grande in Venice
Tour group exploring St. Mark's Basilica with skip-the-line tickets in Venice, Italy
View of Doge Palace and Bell Tower from Gondola
The Santa Maria Formosa
Campo SS. Giovanni e Paolo Venice
Colorful Canal in Venice
Girl holding carnival mask in Venice
Carnival masks on display - Venice
Venice Gondola in canal
Rialto Bridge and Gondola Venice
Gondola on Canal Grande in Venice
4.3(426)

Venice Walking Tour with Grand Canal Gondola Ride

from
€50
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
2 hr. 30 min.
Guided tour

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.
Basilica di San Marco and Piazza San Marco, Venice Full-Day Guided Tour
Guide and tour group outside the Doge's Palace on a Venice Full-Day Guided Tour
View of Doge's Palace in Venice
Narrow canal with gondola and bridge in Venice
Canals in Murano Island, Venice Full-Day Guided Tour
Tour guide leading a group through St. Mark's Basilica in Venice, showcasing the intricate mosaic and marble inlays, as part of the Venice Full-Day Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Entry to St. Mark’s & Doge’s Palace
Church of Gold - St. Mark's Basilica
Inside view of Doge Palace
Inside Doge Palace Chambers in Venice
Tourists enjoying a Gondola ride on a Venice Full-Day Guided Tour
Basilica di San Marco and Piazza San Marco, Venice Full-Day Guided Tour
Guide and tour group outside the Doge's Palace on a Venice Full-Day Guided Tour
View of Doge's Palace in Venice
Narrow canal with gondola and bridge in Venice
Canals in Murano Island, Venice Full-Day Guided Tour
Tour guide leading a group through St. Mark's Basilica in Venice, showcasing the intricate mosaic and marble inlays, as part of the Venice Full-Day Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Entry to St. Mark’s & Doge’s Palace
Church of Gold - St. Mark's Basilica
Inside view of Doge Palace
Inside Doge Palace Chambers in Venice
Tourists enjoying a Gondola ride on a Venice Full-Day Guided Tour
Basilica di San Marco and Piazza San Marco, Venice Full-Day Guided Tour
Guide and tour group outside the Doge's Palace on a Venice Full-Day Guided Tour
View of Doge's Palace in Venice
Narrow canal with gondola and bridge in Venice
Canals in Murano Island, Venice Full-Day Guided Tour
Tour guide leading a group through St. Mark's Basilica in Venice, showcasing the intricate mosaic and marble inlays, as part of the Venice Full-Day Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Entry to St. Mark’s & Doge’s Palace
Church of Gold - St. Mark's Basilica
Inside view of Doge Palace
Inside Doge Palace Chambers in Venice
Tourists enjoying a Gondola ride on a Venice Full-Day Guided Tour
4.0(50)

Venice in a Day: St. Mark’s, Doge’s Palace, Murano & Burano with Gondola Ride

from
€140.95
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
6 hr. - 9 hr.
Transfers included

Explore the best of Venice on this guided day tour 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 on this guided day tour 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.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Venice Gondola ride | Cruise down the iconic canals

Picture this: the golden hues of sunset reflecting off Venice's tranquil waters, the air tinged with the whisper of romance, and city's silhouettes mirrored in its shimmering canals. The only thing missing? Stepping onto a gondola to immerse fully in the quintessence of Venetian charm and elegance.

Steered by skilled gondolier, whose rowing oar moves in harmony with the waters as they occasionally hum melodies, the Gondola is a traditional, flat-bottomed rowing boat. While its asymmetrical structure might seem unbalanced, it has been perfectly designed to navigate Venice's labyrinthine waterways.

Embarking on a gondola ride is not merely about sightseeing; it's about experiencing the city as it was meant to be seen—from its serene canals — and connecting to its living history as the gondola glides beneath the city's ancient bridges and past majestic palazzos.

Venice gondola tours | Page guide

  1. Why take a Venice gondola tour?
  2. Things to know before booking Venice gondola tours
  3. Your Venice gondola ticket options
  4. How to choose the best gondola ride
  5. Venice gondola route map
  6. Boarding points
  7. Where to book my Venice gondola ride: Online vs on-site booking
  8. Plan your Venice gondola tour
  9. What to see while on a gondola ride in Venice
  10. Frequently asked questions about Venice gondola tickets

Things to know before booking a gondola tour

  • Shared vs Private: The standard fare for a gondola ride is €80 and €100 if you are opting to go on the tour between 7 PM to 8 AM. Note that this charge is for the gondola itself and not per head. So if you’re traveling in a group, i.e. choosing a shared ride option works out to be cheaper. However, if you fancy booking out an entire gondola just for you and your partner/loved ones, consider a private ride. Even if the gondola isn't booked out fully, the experience will still proceed for you and your crew. Note that while adults pay full price for a gondola ride, children under the age of two enjoy free access to the experience.
  • Ride duration: Each ride is usually 30 minutes long. If you want to extend your ride, you can check with your gondolier. However, you will need to pay an additional cost of €40 for every additional 20 minutes.
  • Ride timings: Gondola rides typically begin after 9 AM and go on till late night. Night rides cost at least €20 more, which is a huge consideration given that the gondola rides are pricey to begin with. If this is your first time on a gondola opt for a morning tour; the experience is just as magical.
  • Boarding points: The most popular (and crowded) boarding points are around St. Marks Square and the Rialto Bridge along the Grand Canal. If you’re seeking a quieter boarding experience, consider boarding from near the Jewish Ghetto and Campo San Barnaba.
  • Route: Most gondola tours follow a standard route. Gondolas usually travel down the Grand Canal, particularly passing those waterfronts that showcase popular attractions like the Doge’s Palace and St. Marks Basilica. Gondoliers end the ride at the starting point.  
  • Sights: If you board from St. Marks Square or the Rialto Bridge, you can expect to see top landmarks like the Teatro la Fenice, Ca’ Rezzonico, Peggy Guggenheim and more. Pay the additional euros to include the Bridge of Sighs on your route, as this will allow you to explore the quieter parts of the Venetian waterways.
  • Serenade: A serenade isn’t automatically guaranteed with your ride; it must be purchased as an add-on. Serenade rides are also shared. On the off-chance your gondolier agrees to sing for you in a non-serenade ride, you will have to tip or pay extra accordingly. The terms of this should be finalized before the ride begins.
  • Best time for a ride: Summers can get uncomfortably hot as you’re sitting directly under the sun, and winter evenings are chilly. For a pleasant ride, book a tour before 10 am or late in the afternoon. Crowds are also sparser during these times.
  • Ride cancellation: Only in the case of extreme events like high tide, bad weather conditions or gondola strikes will the ride be canceled. But, what if you change your mind? If you book online, you can cancel the tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Your Venice gondola ticket options

Venice Gondola at Rialto Bridge

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

Venice Classic Gondola Ride

Venice Private Gondola Ride

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

Venice Private Gondola ride

venice gondola ride with serenade

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

Venice Grand Canal: Gondola Ride with Serenade

Doge Palace 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

Hear from our guests

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
Clock icon
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
Clock icon
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
Clock icon
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.

venice gondola route map

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.

Where to book my Venice gondola ride: Online vs on-site booking

When planning your unforgettable Venice gondola ride, one of the first decisions you'll face is whether to book your experience online in advance or take a chance with on-site booking once you arrive.

Booking on-site allows you to walk up to the station when you have time and choose a ride, which works well for spontaneous travelers who don't believe in planning every detail. But it also means that you will have to deal with the risk of unavailability and long lines, especially during peak seasons.

Booking a gondola ride online is slightly more expensive. However, there are several upsides to booking online:

  • Booking your gondola ride online ensures your spot is secured for your preferred date and time, which is especially important during Venice's peak tourist seasons.
  • If you are opting for a shared tour, booking online ensures a guaranteed trip whether you have other people to join you in on the ride or not. Plus, what you are paying for is the reserved time slot, ensuring that you get to go on the ride at the exact time of your choosing without having to wait for people to fill up the boat.
  • Booking online also offers another advantage: you get to skip the queues and board the gondola right away. 
  • Online booking platforms offer the chance to research different gondola services, read reviews, and compare prices, helping you make an informed decision.

Plan your Venice gondola tour

Timings
Experience
Tips
timings
gondola will pass by iconic Venetian landmarks
Tips For Visitors

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.