- You will first board your gondola from a station near St. Marks Basilica or the Grand Canal, or any of the other gondola stations.
- Depending on your preference, your ride could either be shared or private. A shared ride would usually mean that you are seated at random and don't have a say in who your co-passengers would be. In a private ride, the entire gondola is booked out just for you and your group.
- If you've chosen a sunset ride, see Venice bathed in the warm glow of dusk. Stay a little longer, and you'll see the city light up building by building at nightfall.
- You could also request an extension if your gondolier is agreeable, albeit at an extra cost.
What to expect on a gondola ride
- Sit back and relax as you float down scenic canals and take in the views of Venice's top landmarks. Relax and let yourself be lulled by the gentle lapping of the water, the gentle swish of the oar, and faraway sounds of the cityscape.
- Don't miss the Bridge of Sighs, a famous enclosed bridge. It connects the Doge's Palace to the New Prison across the Rio di Palazzo canal. Its name, "Bridge of Sighs," comes from a romantic legend, suggesting prisoners sighed as they crossed the bridge, taking their last glimpse of freedom and Venice through the small windows. Note that you have to pay a little extra to sight it, but it's worth it!
- You might also catch the Teatro la Fenice, a premier stage for opera and performances. It hosts a regular season of opera, ballet, and classical music concerts, attracting renowned artists and international audiences.
- If you've opted for it, you will also be serenaded by your gondolier or a gondolier in a nearby boat.
- Your ride will typically last 30 minutes. Don't forget to click photos to capture this experience. These whimsical moments will be punctuated alternatively by silence and soft sounds, dappled sunlight, or the twilit illumination of Venice.
- Once your ride ends, you will be taken back to your boarding point.
- From here, feel free to explore the rest of Venice: visit the Doge's Palace or St. Marks Basilica, or end your ride with a flavorful local meal.
- Your gondolier will be dressed in a black-and-white striped shirt, black pants and closed-toe shoes and often a straw hat with a black or red ribbon.
- They will take you through a designated route, giving you the opportunity to witness the best of Venice up close. If you'd like route alterations, you can request your gondolier beforehand to see if they'd be willing to accommodate your request.
- Gondoliers are usually well-versed in multiple languages, primarily Italian and English, with some being fluent in French, Spanish and German amongst others.
