Venice’s best walking tours cut through the tourist crowds to deliver authentic experiences.
Small-group tours of “Secret Venice” wind through quiet backstreets and local neighborhoods, offering a genuine slice of Venetian life.
The classic St. Mark’s and Doge’s Palace tours are worth every euro – expert guides make sense of the overwhelming art and history.
Food tours stand out by combining tastings at family-run bacari (wine bars) with neighborhood exploration.
For families, the “Venice for Kids” tours keep children engaged with treasure hunts and storytelling.
Skip the overpriced gondola-walking combos – stick to dedicated walking experiences for better value.
Let’s explore our favorite walking tours that showcase the real Venice.
Key Points
Venice offers a variety of unique and themed walking tours, including “Hidden Venice” tours that explore lesser-known sights and provide optional gondola rides.
Literary and cultural walking tours in Venice, such as the “In the Footsteps of Commissario Brunetti” tour, offer a unique perspective on the city’s history and literature.
Culinary walking tours in Venice provide opportunities to sample the city’s vibrant food culture, including traditional Venetian cichetti and wine tastings.
Comprehensive historical walking tours in Venice cover iconic landmarks like the Doge’s Palace and Basilica, offering a deep dive into the city’s rich history.
Venice also offers family-friendly walking tours with engaging activities and a focus on creating memorable experiences for travelers with children.
Hidden Venice: Unusual Walking Tour
For those seeking to uncover Venice’s hidden gems, the “Hidden Venice: Unusual Walking Tour” promises an immersive experience.
This 2-3 hour walking tour takes visitors off the beaten path, exploring the lesser-known sights in the San Marco area. Led by local experts, the tour includes visits to iconic landmarks like the Scala Contarini del Bovolo, Campo Manin, and Teatro La Fenice.
Participants can also opt for a gondola ride, gliding under the Bridge of Sighs into the San Marco Basin.
With a rating of 4.2/5 from over 3,000 reviews, this tour offers an opportunity to discover Venice’s unique charm and character away from the crowds.
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Venice: City Center Historical Guided Walking Tour
Explore the heart of Venice on the “Venice: City Center Historical Guided Walking Tour”. Priced from $28.47 per person, this 1.5-2.5 hour tour takes you through the city’s iconic landmarks.
Choose between a walking tour in San Marco or an unusual route showcasing hidden gems. Marvel at the Doge’s Palace, the Basilica’s golden interiors, and navigate the charming narrow streets.
With a qualified guide and audio-receiver devices, you’ll dive into Venice’s rich history. After the tour, you can even add on a gondola ride to see the city from the water.
With a 4.4/5 overall rating, this tour is an excellent way to experience the soul of Venice.
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Venice: Jewish Ghetto Walking Tour and Synagogue Tour Option
The “Venice: Jewish Ghetto Walking Tour and Synagogue Tour Option” provides an in-depth exploration of the Cannaregio district and the historic Jewish Ghetto.
Priced from €48.00 to €40.80 per person, the 2-3 hour tour allows visitors to understand the Jewish influence in Venice and walk through the Old Ghetto and Campo del Ghetto Nuovo.
An optional Synagogue tour is organized by the Jewish Museum, though the museum is currently under restoration.
The tour includes knowledgeable guides, engaging experiences, and excellent value for money, with a 4.7/5 overall rating based on 348 reviews.
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In the Footsteps of Commissario Brunetti by Donna Leon Walking Tour
This unique walking tour, “In the Footsteps of Commissario Brunetti by Donna Leon,” provides a captivating exploration of Venice through the lens of the author’s acclaimed crime fiction series.
Led by a knowledgeable guide, Valerio Coppo from [deTour]ist, the tour focuses on the iconic “questura” (police headquarters) and quieter neighborhoods like the Ghetto and Cannaregio.
With over 125 reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, the tour has earned a Badge of Excellence. Lasting approximately 2 hours, it offers a personalized experience for up to 10 travelers at a price starting from $83.09 per person.
Accessible by public transportation, the tour provides a unique perspective on Venice, blending fiction with sightseeing and local culture.
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Secret Venice, an Unusual Walk – Private Walking Tour
Secret Venice, an Unusual Walk – Private Walking Tour provides a captivating exploration of the city’s hidden gems.
Led by the knowledgeable guide Federico, this private walking tour offers an intimate experience for groups of up to 15 participants.
Starting at Campo San Giacomo di Rialto and ending at Campo San Rocco, the tour immerses visitors in Venice’s rich history, with Federico’s engaging presentation style and excellent restaurant recommendations.
Highly rated by past travelers, this tour is a must-do for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure in the Floating City.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and welcomes service animals.
Certain dates may require a €5 access fee for travelers staying outside Venice, but the overall experience is well worth the investment.
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Venice “Cichetti” and Wine Small-Group Walking Tour
Immersing visitors in Venice’s vibrant drinking culture, the Venice “Cichetti” and Wine Small-Group Walking Tour offers an authentic taste of local life.
Rated 91% recommended by travelers, this excursion showcases the city’s traditional Venetian cichetti and acclaimed wines.
Led by knowledgeable guides like Gianmarco, the tour winds through secluded streets, providing historical insights and cultural anecdotes.
Participants enjoy three glasses of local wine and a variety of cichetti, small side dishes akin to tapas.
While feedback highlights the tour’s casual, convivial atmosphere, some visitors felt the food quality and wine education could be improved.
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Private Tour: Venice Half-Day Walking Tour
A 3-hour private walking tour of Venice provides a personalized and in-depth exploration of the city’s highlights.
Led by a professional guide, the tour can be customized based on your preferences, covering architecture, local legends, Renaissance art, and food and wine.
You’ll visit notable attractions like the Rialto Fish Market, Cannaregio Quarter, and Santa Maria Formossa Church, with stops at traditional Venetian bars for wine and cicchetti.
However, the tour is limited to exterior visits only, and access to St Mark’s Square, Basilica, and Doge’s Palace isn’t included.
With a 4.5/5 rating from 129 reviews, this tour offers an intimate and immersive experience of Venice’s rich culture and history.
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Venice Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
Consistently, travelers rave about the Venice Walking Food Tour with Secret Food Tours, a 3.5-hour culinary adventure that showcases the vibrant food culture of the floating city.
With a maximum group size of 12 and a 5.0 rating from 142 reviews, this personalized tour offers a generous sampling of Venetian specialties, including cicchetti, polenta, tiramisu, and more.
Knowledgeable guides lead guests through the city’s historic streets, providing insights into the local cuisine and culinary traditions.
At $113.30 per person, the tour is a fantastic value, and travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
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Private Doges Palace and Saint Marks Basilica Walking Tour
This private walking tour takes visitors on a captivating exploration of two of Venice’s most iconic landmarks – the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica.
With priority admission, guests bypass long queues and enjoy an in-depth look at the sites’ mosaics, historic prisons, and the famous Bridge of Sighs.
Led by knowledgeable guides praised for their storytelling and insights, the tour covers both locations in just a few hours.
Catering to various needs, the experience is wheelchair and stroller accessible and near public transportation.
While reviews are generally excellent, some note issues with guide engagement and pacing, emphasizing the importance of personalization.
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Unusual Venice Walking Tour
The Unusual Venice Walking Tour offers a distinctive perspective on the iconic city, taking participants off the beaten path to uncover its lesser-known gems.
This highly-rated 4.5-star tour, with 558 reviews, provides a shared guided walking experience for up to 15 travelers, starting from $29.14 per person.
Highlights include a shared gondola ride, though food and drinks aren’t included.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers willing to wear comfortable shoes.
Feedback praises the knowledgeable guides, unique destinations, and immersive experiences, though some note issues with tour duration and language barriers.
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Venetian Cicchetti Street Food & Sightseeing Walking Tour With Local Guide
Offering an immersive exploration of Venice’s rich food culture, the Venetian Cicchetti Street Food & Sightseeing Walking Tour takes participants on a journey through the city’s iconic landmarks and authentic local eateries.
With a badge of excellence and 93% traveler recommendation, this small-group tour showcases major sights like the Rialto Bridge and Basilica dei Frari.
Guests will visit bacari to sample cicchetti, traditional Venetian tapas-style snacks.
The tour includes an English-speaking local guide, food tastings, and a personal experience, making it a must-do for first-time visitors seeking authentic culinary and cultural insights.
While vegetarian options are available, the tour may not suit vegan, gluten-free, or dairy-free diets.
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Hidden Venice Walking Tour & Gondola Ride Experience
Travelers seeking an intimate exploration of Venice’s lesser-known charms will delight in the Hidden Venice Walking Tour & Gondola Ride Experience.
Offered by CITY TOURS CO. LTD, this 2-part tour starts with a guided walking exploration of Venice’s hidden backstreets and piazzas. Followed by a 30-minute shared gondola ride, the experience provides an insider’s view of the city.
With a maximum of 10 travelers per tour and multilingual assistance, the tour offers a personalized touch. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour’s meeting point is conveniently located near public transportation.
With an average rating of 4.0/5 from 120 reviews, this experience promises an immersive look at Venice’s storied past and present.
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Venice Walking Tour of Most-Famous Sites Monuments & Attractions With Top Guide
Explore Venice’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems on this captivating walking tour led by knowledgeable local guides.
Over 2 hours, you’ll traverse the Dorsoduro district and end at the renowned Piazza San Marco. Along the way, discover the Rialto Bridge, Marco Polo’s home, and other famous sites.
With a maximum of 15 travelers, you’ll enjoy a more personalized experience. The tour includes local taxes, transportation, and gratuities.
While not wheelchair-accessible, it’s stroller-friendly and allows service animals.
Traveler reviews praise the guides’ local expertise and storytelling skills, though some suggest smaller groups and more time for photos.
Access fees may apply on certain dates.
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Venice Sightseeing Walking Tour for Kids and Families
For families and children above 6 years old, Raphael Tours & Events offers an engaging and immersive Venice Sightseeing Walking Tour.
This 2.5-hour private or small-group tour takes visitors to iconic landmarks like Campo San Bartolomeo, Marco Polo House, Rialto Bridge, and Piazza San Marco.
Led by knowledgeable and family-friendly guides, the tour features interactive activities, iPad games, and a history-themed treasure hunt to ensure children stay entertained.
Garnering a 100% recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this tour provides an exceptional introduction to Venice’s culture and history.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and transport assistance, it’s an ideal choice for families seeking a memorable and educational experience in the captivating city of Venice.
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Morning Walking Tour of Venice Plus Gondola Ride
The Morning Walking Tour of Venice Plus Gondola Ride offers visitors a comprehensive introduction to the enchanting city.
Over 2 hours, the tour combines a 1.5-hour guided walking exploration of Venice’s narrow streets and a 30-minute gondola ride.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the walking portion delves into Venetian history, while the gondola ride provides a leisurely yet iconic experience.
Although the gondola ride lacks commentary, the overall tour is highly rated by past participants.
Accessibility is limited, and larger groups may be split across multiple gondolas.
With convenient meeting and ending points, this tour is an excellent choice for first-time visitors to discover Venice’s charm and highlights.
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Glass Lampwork Workshop and Walking Tour in Murano
Venturing into Murano, the heart of Venetian glass artistry, travelers embark on a captivating journey that blends hands-on glasswork and a guided exploration of the island’s enchanting sights.
This small-group tour offers a 98% traveler recommendation, with a Badge of Excellence and a price of $74.46 per person. Participants can create Venetian beads in a glass workshop, led by a local artist, and discover the island’s churches, landmarks, and striking architecture during the walking tour.
The tour includes a visit to the showroom of the oldest glass factory in the world, with an additional fee of 30 Euros for the glass workshop.
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Venice: Secret Corners Private Walking Tour
Exploring the lesser-known neighborhoods, historic churches, and local landmarks of Venice, the Secret Corners Private Walking Tour offers travelers a personalized glimpse into the city’s rich history and vibrant culture.
Led by knowledgeable local guides, the 5-star rated tour has earned a Badge of Excellence and consistently positive reviews from travelers. Priced at $91.72 per person, the private walking experience allows visitors to avoid crowds and gain unique insights, with guides sharing historical facts and personal anecdotes.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for those with a moderate fitness level. Meeting at the iconic Rialto Bridge, the tour culminates at the Gallerie dell’Accademia, providing an immersive journey through Venice’s hidden gems.
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Best of Venice Walking Tour With Gondola, St Marks Basilica and Doge’S Palace
This comprehensive half-day Best of Venice Walking Tour with Gondola, St. Mark’s Basilica, and Doge’s Palace offers an immersive experience in the heart of the Floating City.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the small-group tour (maximum 10 travelers) allows for a personalized exploration of Venice’s streets, squares, and iconic landmarks.
Highlights include a gondola ride under the Bridge of Sighs and skip-the-line access to St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace, including the latter’s dungeons.
Travelers praise the guides’ engaging storytelling and attention to group needs.
While the tour runs rain or shine, visitors should be aware of potential flooding in St. Mark’s Square and dress appropriately.
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Venice Walking Tour and Gondola Ride
The Venice Walking Tour and Gondola Ride offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the Floating City. Operated by Bucintoro Viaggi, this 3.5-star rated tour provides a 30-minute gondola ride and a walking tour through Venice’s historic neighborhoods.
The walking tour showcases landmarks like St. Mark’s Square, Teatro la Fenice, and Rialto Bridge, while the gondola ride immerses travelers in Venice’s iconic waterways.
While reviews highlight knowledgeable guides and the must-do gondola experience, some note issues with organization and limited commentary from gondoliers.
Travelers should arrive early, expect extensive walking, and check local regulations for any access fees.
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Venice Landmarks: Walking Tour Plus St Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace Tours
A comprehensive half-day walking tour allows visitors to explore Venice’s iconic landmarks, from St. Mark’s Square to the Rialto area.
The tour includes skip-the-line access to guided visits of St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace, providing in-depth insights into Venetian history and architecture. Highlights include marveling at the basilica’s stunning mosaics and crossing the Bridge of Sighs.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair-accessible, participants with limited mobility may still join, though they may face some challenges.
With a maximum group size of 999, the tour offers a balanced experience, though some travelers have noted concerns about audio clarity and group size.
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Break Down
Venice offers a wealth of walking tour options, from exploring the city’s hidden gems to following in the footsteps of literary figures. Visitors can discover the Jewish Ghetto, uncover secret corners, and see iconic landmarks. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or literature, there’s a Venice walking tour that’s sure to pique your curiosity and provide an immersive experience.