Tour guides Italy > Venice

Live la Dolce Vita with 5 guided tours in Venice

• Centuries of History in the San Marco District

  

  Embark on a journey through time as you explore the historical heart of the City of Doges. Stroll through the narrow streets of the San Marco Sestiere and admire the splendid Rialto Bridge, the oldest bridge spanning the Grand Canal.

  Along the waterfront, you’ll encounter the magnificent Doge’s Palace, also known as the Palazzo Ducale. This Gothic masterpiece reflects the dark history of this former government seat and tribunal. The iconic Bridge of Sighs, connecting the palace to the judgment halls, evokes the final glimpses of accused prisoners before their sentencing.

  Your walk will lead you to the legendary Piazza San Marco. This vibrant square, with its pigeons, arcades, and the renowned Caffè Florian established in 1720, embodies the timeless spirit of Venice. Finally, the majestic Basilica di San Marco and its 98-meter-high campanile offer breathtaking views of the city and its canals.

• Authentic Immersion in Cannaregio

  

  Discover the local side of Venice in the preserved neighborhood of Cannaregio, far from the tourist crowds. Located in the northern part of the city, this Sestiere is home to a large portion of Venice’s residents. On the Strada Nuova, near the Santa Lucia train station, locals buzz around shops, restaurants, and bars, creating an authentic atmosphere.

  This district also houses the world’s first Jewish ghetto, established in 1516. The buildings here are taller to accommodate more residents. Explore the historical synagogues, such as the beautiful Scuola Spagnola and Scuola Levantina, or visit the stunning Ca’d’Oro Palace, now a museum of art.

  The straight canals of Cannaregio, lined with historic facades, invite you to take a gondola ride. It’s the perfect place to soak in the authentic spirit of Venice.

• A Splash of Color on Burano Island

  

  North of the Lagoon lies the enchanting village of Burano, accessible by Vaporetto. This charming fishing port is famous for its vividly colored houses, painted by fishermen to help locate them in thick fog.

  Burano is also renowned for its needle lace. While it’s rare to see lace-makers working outdoors today, their craftsmanship is celebrated in a dedicated museum showcasing pieces dating back to the 16th century.

  On this picturesque island, you can enjoy freshly caught seafood at a local restaurant while admiring colorful boats gently gliding through the canals.

• The Splendor of Glassblowers on Murano

  

  The island of Murano is a must-visit for its glass artistry. In 1291, the Republic of Venice ordered glassmakers to move their furnaces outside the city to prevent fires. Thus, Murano became a world-renowned center for glassmaking.

  Your Venice tour guide will take you to workshops where you can watch impressive glassblowing demonstrations. Artisans transform molten glass into vivid, multicolored masterpieces, perfect as unique souvenirs.

  After this fascinating experience, stroll around the island, admire the palaces and gardens built by wealthy glassmakers, and enjoy a gelato as you wander through its charming streets lined with canals.

• A Culinary Stroll Through San Polo and Santa Croce

  

  Cross the Rialto Bridge to discover the San Polo Sestiere, a vibrant and unmissable district. Start at its local market, the heart of the city. In the morning, it brims with fresh fruits, vegetables, and seafood. By evening, it transforms into a lively spot for aperitifs in the Venetian twilight.

  Continue your exploration in the Santa Croce district, rich in museums and history. Visit the Ca’Pesaro (modern art museum) or the Palazzo Mocenigo (museum of fabric and costume), and be enchanted by historical churches such as San Cassiano.

  Getting lost in the narrow, ancient streets here is a delight. Listen to the gentle lapping of water in the canals, soak in the atmosphere, and dream about your next journey to this romantic Italian city.