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Venice gondola private rides
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
How do we collect reviews?
Snapshots from our guests
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
A day trip to Murano, Burano, and Torcello departing Venice’s main port, Punta Sabbioni.
- Traverse the quaint canals and alleys of three Venetian islands with an expert English, Italian or German-speaking guide.
- At the first stop, Murano, watch skilled artisans weaving magic through traditional glass-making methods.
- Wander through Burano Island's panoramic streets, admire a technicolor brick house, sip at one of its tiny cafés, and more.
- If selected, Torcello Island offers breathtaking views of the lagoon and lovely sights like the Devil's Bridge without side rails!
A day trip to Murano, Burano, and Torcello departing Venice’s main port, Punta Sabbioni.
- Traverse the quaint canals and alleys of three Venetian islands with an expert English, Italian or German-speaking guide.
- At the first stop, Murano, watch skilled artisans weaving magic through traditional glass-making methods.
- Wander through Burano Island's panoramic streets, admire a technicolor brick house, sip at one of its tiny cafés, and more.
- If selected, Torcello Island offers breathtaking views of the lagoon and lovely sights like the Devil's Bridge without side rails!
Inclusions
- Boat tour around Murano and Burano Islands
- Boat tour of Torcello Island (if selected)
- English, Italian, and German-speaking guide onboard
- Round-trip boat transfers from Punta Sabbioni Venice
- Glass blowing demonstration in Murano
- Tip: When in Burano, don't miss the charming footbridge connecting it to the tiny neighboring Tre Ponti island!
- This experience is not accessible by wheelchair and pram/strollers.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Cruises and Gondola Rides in VenicePrivate ride
Why choose a private gondola ride in Venice?
Priority entry
Skip the queues with a pre-booked private ride, ensuring you embark on your romantic journey with ease and at your preferred time. Unlike a shared ride, where the experience may begin only once the gondola has been filled, this experience begins the moment you step aboard.
Customised seating & privacy
Book the entire gondola for your party, guaranteeing an intimate and personalized experience. Enjoy the tranquility with your loved ones, with no strangers to interrupt. The ride will begin even if the gondola isn't filled to maximum capacity (i.e. 5 guests and 1 gondolier) since you've booked out the entire boat.
Plan your Venice gondola ride
Discover Venice's stories
Choose live commentary or a digital guide (available in Spanish, German, Japanese, Chinese, Russian, French, and Hindi) to learn about Venice's iconic landmarks. Dive deep into the city's rich history and architectural marvels as you glide past magnificent buildings and bridges.
Note: Both live commentary and the digital app are optional inclusions that can be availed with a ticket upgrade.
Personalized attention
Your gondolier will be able to answer your questions and share their knowledge of Venice's history and culture. You can also request them to extend your ride, or even adjust the route, although this depends on the gondolier's availability and convenience. Of course, you will have to pay extra for overtime.
From happy customers
Yolyvette
CanadaMay, 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
GermanyMar, 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
Is a private ride ideal for me?
Pros
Cons
You can enjoy the canals and the city's atmosphere with just your special someone or chosen companions, creating a more exclusive and private experience.
Private gondola rides are significantly more expensive than shared gondola rides.
You might also be able to negotiate the route and duration of your ride since you don't have to worry about others' requirements.
Unlike a shared gondola, a private ride might not be as authentic or full of local flavor. The gondolier might not engage as much, respecting the privacy you need.
Navigating the serene canals: What to expect on a private gondola ride
Embarking on a private gondola ride through Venice is not just about moving from point A to point B; it's an immersive journey through the heart of the city, allowing you to experience its soul. As you glide along the serene canals, the gondola gently rocks to the rhythm of the water, creating a soothing ambiance that's both tranquil and romantic.
Sights to behold
From the intricate facades of centuries-old palazzos to the vibrant hues of Venetian homes, every turn unveils a visual feast. Architectural marvels reflect on the water, lending an ethereal beauty to your journey. Iconic views may include the Rialto Bridge, Fenice Theater, Peggy Guggenheim Museum, Doge's Palace, St. Marks Basilica, and the Bridge of Sighs, promising unforgettable moments and splendid photo opportunities.
What to see on your Venice gondola ride
Sounds to enrapture
Venice's canal sounds are uniquely captivating, blending the gentle splash of water, the distant murmur of locals and visitors, and the occasional serenade by a gondolier into a tranquil auditory experience. This serene soundscape underscores the peacefulness of floating through the city's waterways, making every moment on the gondola an auditory delight to be savored.
Sensations to cherish
Gliding through Venice's canals offers an unmatched sensation, connecting you to the city's aquatic essence with each oar stroke. This journey showcases why Venice has enchanted its visitors for centuries. The cool breeze and the gondola's gentle sway provide a serene escape, enveloping you in the city's unique charm and tranquility amidst life's hustle.
Frequently asked questions about Venice gondola private rides
How much does a private gondola ride cost?
A 30-minute private ride starts from €135, These prices can go up if you decide to take an after-hours gondola, or if you wish to extend your ride. The extra cost is €40 for every additional 20 minutes.
How far in advance should I book my private gondola ride?
While planning your visit, we recommend booking your private gondola ride at least a week in advance to secure your preferred date and time. During peak tourist seasons, even earlier booking is advisable to ensure availability.
How long does a Venice gondola private ride last?
Generally, a private gondola ride in Venice lasts around 30 minutes, depending on the route and package you choose. It's sufficient time to soak in the stunning views with your special someone and capture frame-worthy photos. However, you can always ask to extend the duration of your ride, but you will be charged an additional cost of €40 for every additional 20 minutes.
Do you offer multilingual gondolier services?
Our gondola tours can be enhanced with live commentary from knowledgeable gondoliers fluent in multiple languages, including English, Italian, Spanish, and French. Availability may vary, so please request this service when booking.
What Venice attractions can I see during my private gondola ride?
During your gondola ride, you'll float down the quaint canals of Venice, passing by breathtaking monuments and buildings, stunning bridges, and bustling piazzas. You'll also get a unique perspective of famous landmarks like the Teatro la Fenice and the Rialto Bridge, Venice's great bridge that spans the Grand Canal.
Can I customize my gondola route to include specific landmarks?
While gondola routes are typically pre-determined to showcase the most scenic and historically significant parts of Venice, some gondoliers do accommodate requests for specific landmarks when possible. Please discuss your preferences with them in advance, and they might tailor your journey accordingly. Moreover, decisions on which route to take are also influenced by factors like weather conditions and canal traffic.
What is the difference between a shared and private gondola ride?
In a shared ride, seating is random unless you opt for group seating. Typically, a shared gondola accommodates up to 6 passengers (including the gondolier), offering a different social experience. However, in a private ride, you can book out the entire gondola for yourself and your loved ones, even if it means the gondola hasn't reached maximum capacity. This offers a cozy and intimate experience.
What are the advantages of a private gondola ride?
Privacy, intimacy, and personalized attention from the gondolier are some of the advantages of booking a private gondola ride.
Are there any night-time gondola rides available?
Yes, evening gondola rides are available and highly recommended for their enchanting atmosphere. If you're taking a sunset or night ride, the city lights illuminate the canals and historic buildings, making it the ideal way to enjoy Venice's charm and magic. However, night rides do cost about €20 more. Please book in advance as these slots are particularly popular.
What should I wear for a gondola ride?
Venice's weather can be quite variable, so we recommend dressing comfortably yet elegantly, suitable for the season. During cooler months, a light jacket is advisable as it can be breezy on the canals. For evening rides, consider a more formal attire to match the romantic setting.
Are gondola rides safe for children?
Absolutely! Gondola rides are a safe and memorable experience for guests of all ages. Life jackets are available upon request in some gondolas (although provision of life jackets isn't the norm), and the experienced gondoliers ensure a smooth and secure journey through Venice's canals.
How can I capture the best photos during my gondola ride?
Morning and late afternoon rides offer the best natural lighting for photography, with softer hues and longer shadows that beautifully highlight Venice's architecture. We recommend having your camera ready for unexpected views and don't hesitate to ask your gondolier to pause briefly at picturesque spots.
Is it possible to arrange a surprise gondola ride for a special occasion?
Arranging a surprise gondola ride for a special occasion is a wonderful idea and absolutely possible. By choosing a private gondola ride, you can tailor the journey to your special moment, whether it's a proposal, anniversary, birthday, or just a romantic gesture. Here's how to make it happen:
- Prebook your tickets so you can guarantee the perfect timing for your ride.
- Opting for a private ride ensures that the gondola is exclusively yours, making the surprise even more personal and intimate.
- Arrive at the station 10-15 minutes before your scheduled time to ensure that you don’t miss the ride.
- Meet the gondolier, climb on board, and set sail on the most romantic ride of your life.
What happens if it rains on the day of my booked gondola ride?
In case of light rain, gondola rides typically proceed with the provision of umbrellas. However, for heavy rain or unsafe weather conditions, the ride will be canceled.
Should I tip the gondolier after a private ride?
Tipping the gondolier is not mandatory but appreciated for exceptional service. A gratuity of €5-10 per person is suggested for a memorable experience.
