Getting a good guided tour in Venice cuts through the tourist chaos and gives you direct access to the city’s must-see sights. You’ll save hours by skipping the notoriously long lines at the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica. My favorite tours include the early morning walks (before the crowds hit) and the backstreet food tours where you’ll discover authentic cicchetti bars alongside locals.
Small-group tours work best here – you can actually hear your guide in Venice’s narrow streets and slip more easily into local spots. For first-timers, I especially recommend the classic highlights tours that combine St. Mark’s Square attractions with hidden neighborhood walks.
Let’s look at Venice’s most worthwhile guided tours.
Good To Know
Skip-the-line tours for popular attractions like the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica, with small group sizes and expert English-speaking guides.
Unique experiences that combine sightseeing with local food tasting, engineering insights, and exclusive access to off-the-beaten-path destinations.
Historical and cultural tours that provide in-depth exploration of Venice’s landmarks, including virtual reality experiences and private guided tours.
Food, wine, and photography tours that offer immersive local experiences, from sampling Venetian tapas to learning photography techniques from professionals.
Accessibility and logistics information, including group dynamics, pricing, and traveler insights, to help select the best guided tour for your needs.
Skip-the-Line: Doges Palace & St. Marks Basilica Fully Guided Tour
As travelers explore the historic heart of Venice, the Skip-the-Line: Doges Palace & St. Marks Basilica Fully Guided Tour offers an exceptional opportunity to bypass lengthy queues and explore the city’s rich cultural heritage.
This small-group tour, with a maximum of 20 participants, is led by expert English-speaking guides who provide insightful commentary on the iconic Doge’s Palace and the stunning St. Mark’s Basilica.
Equipped with audio headsets, guests can enjoy clear communication as they enjoy the tour’s 2-hour duration.
With morning and afternoon time slots available, this highly-rated tour is a must-consider for those seeking an enriching Venetian experience.
Read our full review: Skip-the-Line: Doges Palace & St. Marks Basilica Fully Guided Tour Review
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Venice, the Lagoon, and Acqua Alta Small-Group Guided Tour
This small-group guided tour offers travelers an in-depth exploration of Venice’s remarkable engineering and its ongoing battle against the seasonal acqua alta (high water) flooding.
The tour includes walking and water bus travel to uncover the city’s unique lagoon landscape and learn about the MOSE flood barrier project.
With a maximum of 8 travelers, the experience provides personalized attention. An important note is the €5 access fee that applies on certain dates for visitors staying outside Venice.
Read our full review: Venice, the Lagoon, and Acqua Alta Small-Group Guided Tour Review
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Venetian Cicchetti Street Food & Sightseeing Walking Tour With Local Guide
The Venetian Cicchetti Street Food & Sightseeing Walking Tour with Local Guide provides travelers a two-in-one experience to explore Venice’s iconic landmarks and savor the city’s beloved street food delicacies.
Guests meet at Campo San Bortolomio and stroll to sites like the Rialto Bridge and Basilica dei Frari, while stopping at authentic bacari (wine bars) to taste cicchetti, or small bites.
With an expert local guide, the small-group tour offers a personalized experience and cultural insights.
While vegetarian options are available, the tour doesn’t cater to other dietary needs.
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Best of Venice: Saint Marks Basilica, Doges Palace With Guide and Gondola Ride
Though offering a rundown of Venice’s top attractions, the Best of Venice: Saint Marks Basilica, Doges Palace With Guide and Gondola Ride tour provides travelers an express experience to discover the city’s iconic landmarks.
The tour includes a walking exploration of St. Mark’s Basilica, skip-the-line entry to the Doge’s Palace, and a scenic gondola ride, all led by a professional art historian guide.
Capped at 20 participants, the small-group dynamic allows for an engaging and informative experience.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate, though large backpacks are prohibited.
Read our full review: Best of Venice: Saint Marks Basilica, Doges Palace With Guide and Gondola Ride Review
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Venice Walking Tour of Most-Famous Sites Monuments & Attractions With Top Guide
Exploring Venice’s most iconic landmarks and hidden gems, the Venice Walking Tour of Most-Famous Sites Monuments & Attractions With Top Guide offers travelers a rundown of the historic city.
The 2-hour walking tour explores the Dorsoduro district, leading guests to Piazza San Marco. With both small group and private tour options, the experience is recommended by 95% of travelers and features a knowledgeable English-speaking guide.
Highlights include the Rialto Bridge and Marco Polo’s home, along with off-the-beaten-path discoveries.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour welcomes strollers and service animals, making it suitable for most visitors.
Read our full review: Venice Walking Tour of Most-Famous Sites Monuments & Attractions With Top Guide Review
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Welcome! Venice Sightseeing Kickstart Tour With Local Guide, Small Group
This Venice Sightseeing Kickstart Tour with Local Guide offers travelers a small group experience to explore the city’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
Guests can expect photo stops at key locations, a visit to the historical Rialto area, and a unique view of the famous Rialto Bridge.
The tour culminates at the iconic St. Mark’s Square, where the guide provides personal tips and suggestions for dining and other attractions.
With a 5.0 rating from 48 reviews, this tour is a highly recommended way to get an engaging introduction to the beauty and history of Venice.
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Venice Saint Marks Basilica Afternoon Guided Tour
Visitors to Venice can enjoy the city’s rich history and magnificent architecture on the Venice Saint Marks Basilica Afternoon Guided Tour.
The 1.5-hour experience includes skip-the-line access to the iconic basilica, exploration of its 43,000 square feet of golden mosaics, and entry to the first-floor museum.
Guides provide live commentary in multiple languages, bringing the basilica’s history to life. While the tour operates rain or shine, crowd sizes can vary.
Most guests praise the knowledgeable guides and unique perspectives, though some note issues with noise and crowding during peak times.
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St. Marks Cathedral: the Shining Golden Basilica – Guided Tour
St. Mark’s Cathedral, the shining golden basilica in Venice, offers a guided tour that immerses visitors in its rich history and architectural splendor.
With 92% traveler recommendation, the tour provides skip-the-line access, allowing guests to explore St. Mark’s Square, Doge’s Palace, and the Basilica’s terrace.
The experience includes a Virtual Reality journey through St. Mark’s Square and audio-receivers for groups over 10.
While reviews note mixed clarity and organization, travelers praise the beauty of the Basilica and the informative guides.
Priced from $35.16 per person, the tour is an opportunity to uncover the captivating essence of this Venetian icon.
Read our full review: St. Marks Cathedral: the Shining Golden Basilica – Guided Tour Review
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A Venetian Evening – Wine Tasting & Tapas Tour With a Local Guide
One of the most popular evening activities in Venice is the A Venetian Evening – Wine Tasting & Cicchetti with a Local Guide tour.
This highly-rated tour takes visitors through the Dorsoduro district, known for its bacaris and cicchetti (appetizers).
Travelers can expect to sample 5 wines, including prosecco, natural wines, and a dessert wine, along with several Venetian tapas.
Led by a licensed local guide, the small-group experience (max 8 people) provides an intimate and authentic look at Venetian cuisine and culture.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and operates in all weather conditions.
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Venice: Private Tour With a Local Guide
What better way to experience the magic of Venice than through the eyes of a local guide? This private walking tour offers just that – a personalized experience showcasing the city’s lesser-known neighborhoods and local favorites.
With a 4.5-star rating from 103 reviews, the tour provides an insider’s perspective, customizable to your preferences. You’ll explore the city on foot, learning about the history and culture from a knowledgeable guide.
The tour includes tips for local eateries and sites, though transportation and personal expenses are excluded. Comfortable shoes are recommended as the tour operates in all weather conditions.
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Private Guided Tour: Venice Gondola Ride Including the Grand Canal
Although Venice is renowned for its iconic gondola rides, this private guided tour offers a unique opportunity to experience the city’s enchanting canals from the perspective of a local expert.
The 30-minute ride takes guests past significant landmarks, including the Rialto Bridge and Accademia Bridge, while a knowledgeable gondolier and guide provide insights into Venetian history and architecture.
The tour accommodates up to four travelers per gondola and includes hotel pickup and drop-off.
While reviews are mixed, positive experiences highlight the scenic views and knowledgeable guides, though some guests felt the tour lacked personal engagement or value.
Read our full review: Private Guided Tour: Venice Gondola Ride Including the Grand Canal Review
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Venice Photography Walking Tour With Private Guide
Offering an immersive exploration of Venice’s iconic landmarks through the lens of photography, the Venice Photography Walking Tour with Private Guide provides an engaging and educational experience for travelers of all skill levels.
With 57 reviews and a 93% traveler recommendation, the 3-hour tour showcases St. Mark’s Square, the Bridge of Sighs, and hidden backstreets, while teaching composition, lighting, and reportage-style photography.
Suitable for any camera, including smartphones, the tour is customizable to participants’ interests. Led by local professionals, the experience includes hotel pickup and drop-off, and operates rain or shine, starting at $236.39 per person.
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Guided Tour of St. Marks Basilica With Terrace
Enjoy the opulent splendor of St. Mark’s Basilica on this guided tour.
Explore the basilica’s dazzling golden mosaics, ornate domes, and impressive architecture with a professional guide. The tour features skip-the-line admission, personal headsets, and optional access to the Terrace and Museum.
With 99 reviews and a 3.6 rating, this experience provides an in-depth look at one of Venice’s most iconic landmarks.
Just be sure to arrive 15 minutes early, as there are no refunds for no-shows or late arrivals. Group size is limited to 25 travelers for a more intimate experience.
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Venice Doges Palace & St Marks Basilica Guided Tour
This guided tour provides an in-depth exploration of two of Venice’s most iconic landmarks – the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica.
Over the course of 2 hours, you’ll skip the lines and enjoy a personalized audio system as an expert guide leads you through the magnificent interiors.
Admire the Gothic architecture and stunning artworks, including the Basilica’s impressive mosaics and inlaid floors.
This private tour is suitable for up to 25 travelers and offers excellent value, with entrance fees, gratuities, and access to exclusive areas like the Basilica’s first-floor museum and terrace included.
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Skip the Line: Doges Palace Guided Tour in Venice
Visitors can skip the long lines and gain exclusive access to the Doge’s Palace, one of Venice’s most iconic landmarks, with this guided tour.
The 1-hour 15-minute experience showcases the palace’s Byzantine and Oriental architecture, along with its gold staircases and renowned artworks. Guests will learn about the history of the Most Serene Republic from a qualified guide and see the famous Bridge of Sighs.
While the tour generally receives positive reviews for its content, some customers have reported issues with the meeting point and communication.
Read our full review: Skip the Line: Doges Palace Guided Tour in Venice Review
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Rialto Farmers Market Food Tour in Venice With Wine Tasting & Guided Sightseeing
Travelers seeking an authentic taste of Venetian culture can embark on the Rialto Farmers Market Food Tour in Venice.
This 2.5 to 4-hour tour combines food sampling and sightseeing, with travelers savoring small bites, local wine, and prosecco while visiting top attractions.
Led by a knowledgeable guide, the tour provides an insider’s perspective on Venetian life and culture, avoiding tourist traps.
With a maximum group size of 14, the experience offers an intimate and immersive look at this historic city.
Travelers will learn about local cuisine, explore the Rialto Market, and enjoy sights like the Chiesa di San Giacomo di Rialto.
Read our full review: Rialto Farmers Market Food Tour in Venice With Wine Tasting & Guided Sightseeing Review
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Live Guided Tour: Golden Basilica, Doges Palace & Gondola Ride
For those seeking a comprehensive exploration of Venice’s iconic landmarks, the “Venices Best: Basilica, Doges Palace, Gondola & History Gallery” tour provides an unparalleled experience.
With skip-the-line access to St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace, as well as a shared gondola ride and self-guided museum visits, this tour offers an immersive look at Venice’s rich history and architecture.
Despite some critiques regarding large group sizes and rushed experiences, the tour maintains an impressive 95% recommendation rate from travelers.
With expert guides and stunning sights, this tour is an excellent choice for making the most of a visit to Venice.
Read our full review: Live Guided Tour: Golden Basilica, Doges Palace & Gondola Ride Review
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Venice Jewish Ghetto & Cannaregio District Food Wine & Sightseeing Guided Tour
This guided tour takes visitors on an immersive exploration of Venice’s Jewish Ghetto and the charming Cannaregio district.
Over approximately 4 hours, guests enjoy Venetian tapas, sweets, and alcoholic beverages while learning about the area’s rich history and culture from an English-speaking local guide.
The maximum group size of 14 ensures personalized attention.
While not suitable for strict dietary needs, the tour provides a unique opportunity to discover Venice’s less touristy neighborhoods and sample authentic local cuisine.
With rave reviews, this tour is an excellent way to experience the city’s vibrant food and cultural scene.
Read our full review: Venice Jewish Ghetto & Cannaregio District Food Wine & Sightseeing Guided Tour Review
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2-Hour Venice With Kids and Family Friendly Private Guided Tour
Do you want to explore Venice with your family in a fun and engaging way? The 2-Hour Venice with Kids and Family Friendly Private Guided Tour is an excellent option.
Offering a custom itinerary tailored to your family’s interests and ages, this tour features engaging activities like treasure hunts and photo opportunities.
With a kid-focused guide, you’ll discover top sights and hidden gems while keeping the little ones entertained. The private nature of the tour ensures undivided attention.
While entrance tickets, snacks, and transportation aren’t included, the tour provides tips for enjoying Venice.
Priced at $262.40 per group, it’s a great way to explore the city with the whole family.
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Doges Palace Guided Tour
Visitors exploring Venice’s iconic landmarks won’t want to miss the Doges Palace Guided Tour. This 1-hour tour provides skip-the-line access to the center of power in the Venetian Republic.
Guests can admire art by renowned masters like Titian and Tintoretto as they walk through the palace’s ornate halls. The highlight is crossing the Bridge of Sighs, where prisoners like Casanova were held.
While the tour is generally well-received, some travelers note issues with pacing and accessibility. The knowledgeable local guide and stunning architecture and artwork make this a must-do activity for those visiting Venice.
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The Essence of Venice in a Stress Free Small Group Walking Tour With a Top Guide
Eager to discover the heart of Venice beyond the iconic landmarks? This small-group walking tour offers an intimate glimpse into the city’s hidden gems.
Led by passionate local guides, you’ll visit the Rialto Bridge, Marco Polo House, and St. Mark’s Square, learning about Venice’s rich history and culture along the way.
With a maximum of 10 participants, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience and insider tips on the best local eateries.
Highly recommended by 98% of travelers, this tour is an excellent choice for time-conscious visitors seeking an in-depth, stress-free exploration of the Floating City’s essence.
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Venice Sweet Treats Small-Group Guided Foodie Walking Tour
Travelers seeking a delightful exploration of Venice’s sweet treats will find the “A Sweet Stroll Through Venice: Pastries, Chocolate, and Gelato” walking tour an enticing option.
This small-group tour takes visitors on a journey through six historic neighborhoods, allowing them to sample a variety of desserts, from classic gelato to traditional Venetian cookies.
Highlights include an espresso at a historic café in St. Mark’s Square, a gondola ride across the Grand Canal, and visits to atmospheric venues like a kosher bakery.
With a knowledgeable guide, exceptional food, and an intimate group setting, this tour offers a uniquely sweet experience in Venice.
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Venice: Doges Palace and Piazza San Marco – Live Guided Tour
Although Venice is renowned for its picturesque canals and romantic gondola rides, the city’s rich history and architectural wonders are equally captivating.
The “Venice: Doges Palace and Piazza San Marco – Live Guided Tour” offers a comprehensive exploration of these cultural highlights. Guests will skip the lines to visit the iconic Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica, gaining exclusive access to the Bridge of Sighs and Doge’s Palace Prisons.
The tour also includes a visit to Murano and Burano Islands, where travelers can witness a glass-blowing demonstration. With knowledgeable guides and a maximum of 10 travelers, this tour provides an immersive and personalized Venetian experience.
Read our full review: Venice: Doges Palace and Piazza San Marco – Live Guided Tour Review
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Skip the Line: Doges Palace Ticket & Guide Book
The “Skip the Line: Doges Palace Ticket & Guide Book” offers visitors a comprehensive and efficient way to explore the political and artistic grandeur of Venice.
With priority access to the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Square Museums, travelers can enjoy the lavish chambers, the Bridge of Sighs, and Casanova’s historical prisons.
The included guidebook, available in 7 languages, enhances the self-guided experience.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour caters to most visitors, providing optional add-ons like fast-track access to the Bell Tower.
Read our full review: Skip the Line: Doges Palace Ticket & Guide Book Review
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Exclusive Day Tours on a Private Boat With an Exclusive Guide
For those seeking a more immersive and personalized experience in Venice, the “Exclusive Day Tours on a Private Boat With an Exclusive Guide” offer a remarkable opportunity.
With a 100% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, these exclusive day tours provide a private boat and a personal guide to explore the city’s hidden gems.
Travelers can enjoy bottled water, while all drinks on the islands are at their own expense.
Although not wheelchair accessible, the tours are stroller-friendly and near public transportation.
Confirmation is received at booking, and safety is the top priority, with the inability to board resulting in exclusion from the tour.
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The Sum Up
Venice offers an array of guided tours that cater to diverse interests. From skip-the-line access to iconic landmarks like the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica, to intimate food tours and private boat excursions, visitors can explore the city’s rich history, culture, and culinary delights with the guidance of knowledgeable local experts. These tours provide an immersive and efficient way to make the most of one’s time in this enchanting Italian destination.