VENICE, FRANKINCENSE AND MYRRH! A JOURNEY ON AROMATICS TRADE

Introducing this aromatic adventure in Venice

This tour promises an engaging look into Venice’s historic role as a major player in the trade of exotic aromatics. While we haven’t personally taken it, reviews highlight its evocative storytelling and sensory richness.

What we love about this experience is its unique focus on fragrances, the opportunity to learn about Venice’s centuries-long trade networks, and the chance to smell rare raw materials firsthand. The affordable price of $30 for 1.5 hours makes it a surprisingly accessible way to deepen your understanding of Venice’s merchant past.

One thing to consider is that the tour takes place in an indoor showroom, so it might not suit those seeking outdoor sightseeing or a more physical experience. This tour is ideal for travelers curious about history, botany, or perfumes, and who want to explore Venice through its aromatic treasures rather than just its sights.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Authentic Sensory Experience: Smell and explore raw aromatics like frankincense, myrrh, and sandalwood.
• Historical Insights: Discover Venice’s pivotal role in the spice and incense trade with engaging storytelling.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Learn from experts passionate about aromatic raw materials and Venice’s merchant traditions.
• Affordable and Short: At $30 for 1.5 hours, it’s a cost-effective way to add a sensory dimension to your Venice trip.
• Indoor Setting: Conducted in a dedicated showroom, providing a controlled environment for scent exploration.
• Authentic Raw Materials: The collection includes rare and high-quality ingredients like Benzoin, Copal, and Storax.

What makes this tour stand out?

A taste of Venice’s trade history

We loved the way this tour connects Venice’s historic maritime prowess with the aromatic world. Starting from the Chiesa di San Samuele, the guide—who is often described as knowledgeable and passionate—drives home Venice’s importance as a trading hub, linking it to ancient routes like the Silk, Spice, and Frankincense routes.

The storytelling is detailed enough to give you a sense of how deeply fragrances were woven into daily life—used in medicine, cosmetics, arts, and religious rituals. One reviewer mentioned how “the tales about Venice’s merchant ships and the spice routes were fascinating,” adding a layer of context that really helps in visualizing the bustling marketplaces of centuries past.

Sensory exploration in an incense kingdom

The second part of the experience is where it truly comes alive. Visitors are invited to smell a diverse array of aromatic raw materials, such as frankincense, myrrh, mastic, sandalwood, colophony, and copal. The collection comes from a 20-year research and trading background, ensuring authenticity and quality.

Being in a dedicated showroom, the environment feels like an Incense kingdom, which adds to the sense of stepping into a different world. Many reviews highlight how the guide’s explanations reveal secrets and characteristics of each aroma, making the scents more than just smells—they become stories and history in themselves.

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The value of expert guides

A standout feature that reviewers repeatedly praise is the guides’ passion and knowledge. They often mention how guides share insights beyond basic facts, explaining the botanical origins, historical uses, and even the symbolic meanings of the aromas. One review specifically noted that the guide’s “in-depth knowledge made the aromas come alive.”

Practical considerations

The price point of $30 is considered very reasonable, especially given the personalized, private nature of the experience. It’s perfect for those looking for a short, impactful cultural activity that can be easily fit into a day of sightseeing. The 1.5-hour duration allows you to enjoy a rich experience without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

The location at San Samuele is also convenient, right in the heart of Venice, and the meeting point is easy to find, marked clearly with the company’s sign.

A detailed look at the itinerary

Starting point: Chiesa di San Samuele

Your journey begins at this charming church, a well-known landmark in Venice’s San Marco district. The meeting spot is straightforward, and the guide’s clear signage ensures a smooth start.

The indoor exploration in Venice

Once inside the showroom, the first part of the tour involves storytelling about Venice’s historic trade routes and the aromatic commodities that fueled its wealth. You’ll hear about Venice’s relationship with Middle Eastern and Far Eastern markets and how these raw materials were used in various spheres of life—medicinally, religiously, and artistically.

The guide will likely describe how the Stato da Terra e Stato da Mar (the land and sea republics) facilitated this trade, and you’ll get a vivid picture of the Arsenale and vessel-building that supported Venice’s maritime dominance.

The olfactory journey

The highlight is the olfactive exploration of raw ingredients. Expect to smell Frankincense and Myrrh—both staples in religious rituals—and learn about their significance. You’ll also encounter Sandalwood, Benzoin, Storax, and Copal, each with its own story and traditional uses.

Reviewers mention that “the scents from the collection are top-notch, and the guide explains their origins and applications in a way that enhances the experience.” If you’re into botanicals or perfumes, this part offers a tactile, aromatic connection to distant lands and ancient trade routes.

Final impressions

After the scents are explored, you’ll return to the starting point, feeling more connected to Venice’s trading legacy. Many participants appreciate the personalized attention and the chance to ask questions, which enriches the overall experience.

Practical details: what to expect and consider

Duration and group size

At approximately 1.5 hours, this tour is perfect when you need a quick yet meaningful cultural break. It’s a private group experience, meaning guided attention and ample opportunity to engage.

Cost and value

For $30, you receive an entry into a curated collection of raw materials and an expert-led story that makes history tangible. Considering the depth of knowledge and sensory engagement, this price is very fair.

Accessibility and location

The tour takes place indoors at the Anbesa showroom, which is accessible and easy to find from San Samuele water bus stop. No outdoor walking or navigation is required once you’re there, making it suitable for all weather conditions.

Language options

Guides speak both Italian and English, ensuring clarity for international visitors. This flexibility adds to the experience’s comfort and accessibility.

Cancellation and booking

With a full refund available when canceled 24 hours in advance, booking is low-risk. Check availability for your preferred dates, as small groups tend to fill quickly during high season.

Who this tour is perfect for

This aromatic journey is ideal for history buffs, fragrance enthusiasts, and curious travelers. If you’re looking for a short, immersive activity that offers a different perspective on Venice’s past, this is a fantastic choice. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy sensory experiences and want to learn through smell and storytelling rather than just sights.

Travelers interested in Venice’s trade history, botanical products, or perfumes will find this tour particularly rewarding. It also makes a great addition for anyone wanting a more intimate, in-depth understanding of Venice’s merchant legacy without the crowds of major landmarks.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a rare blend of history, botany, and olfactory exploration in a cozy, well-curated setting. It’s a wonderfully different way to experience Venice, focusing on its role as a gateway to exotic worlds through the lens of fragrance.

The knowledgeable guides and high-quality raw materials make it a memorable, educational activity that feels more like a private workshop than a standard tour. For those with a curiosity for the past, a love of smells, or an interest in trade, this experience delivers genuine value and delight.

While it’s not suited for outdoor adventurers or those seeking extensive sightseeing, it’s perfect for anyone wanting a peaceful, sensory immersion amidst Venice’s bustling streets. It’s an authentic voyage into the aromatic riches that helped shape one of the world’s most fascinating cities.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it’s appropriate for most age groups, especially those who enjoy smells and learning about history.

Do I need to know Italian to participate?
No, guides speak both Italian and English, making it accessible for international visitors.

How long does the tour last?
The experience takes approximately 1.5 hours, making it a quick but rich activity during your Venice stay.

Where do I meet the guide?
At the San Samuele water bus stop, where the guide will hold a sign with the company’s logo and the tour name.

What is included in the price?
You get access to a collection of raw aromatics, a storytelling session about Venice’s trade, and an olfactory journey guided by experts.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This aromatic tour is a rare opportunity to experience Venice through its scents and stories, making it a memorable and instructive addition to any trip.

You can check if your dates are available here: