Walking Tours in Venice

Wind your way through the labyrinth of streets and bridges that connect the islands within Venice. Veer away from the crowded grand canal and explore the city on foot. A walking tour of Venice transports you back in time and explores the multitude of hidden details that add to the city’s charm and mystery.

Taking a walking tour in Venice is the best way to delve into the many facets of the city, exploring the food, history, architecture and culture that makes the city tick. No stone will be left unturned as you delve into what makes Venice special and fully immerse into city life.

Here's everything you should know about walking tours, one of the most captivating sightseeing activities in Venice.

What are the best Venice walking tours?

Whether you want to savor the flavors of the city or pair your walking tour with a private gondola ride, there is a walking tour in Venice for every style of traveler.

Venice historical walking tour

Step back in time as you walk through the time capsule that is Venice. Your guide will show you the stunning facades of the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark's Basilica, while you will wander across Piazza San Marco and Rialto Bridge.

Learn about the impactful history of the city and how it has changed through the centuries, perfectly preserving its ancient structures. You can join a 2-hour small group walking tour or enjoy a private tour for a more flexible itinerary.

Venice walking tour plus Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Basilica

This is one of the most popular walking tours in Venice, as you can enjoy priority entrance to two prolific landmarks in the city. This half-day excursion starts with an in-depth walking tour right through the center of Venice.

Next, visit the Doge’s Palace to see the ostentatious interior that defines the city’s past. End the tour with a tour of St. Mark’s Basilica and stand in awe of its glistening golden interior.

Venice walking tour for kids and families

Historical sightseeing can be a challenge with children, but this family-oriented walking tour in Venice is the perfect alternative. You won’t miss a beat as you visit landmarks like Campo San Bartolomeo, the Marco Polo house and the Rialto Bridge with a focus on involving children through activities along the way.

This 2-hour private experience is for groups of up to 12 people and includes interactive games, iPad games and child-friendly commentary along the way.

Jewish Quarter walking tour

Explore the north side of Venice as you dive into the Jewish heritage of the city in the Cannaregio district. Visit Campo del Ghetto Nuovo to learn about the fortified confinement of Venetian Jews and see the stunning bass reliefs in the ghetto that most visitors don’t know about. You can end the tour with a Synagogues tour to see the prominent places of worship in the community.

Are there any combos available with walking tours in Venice?

A combo is a great way to save and enjoy another iconic activity along with your walking tour in Venice.

Venice food walking combo tour

Indulge in the sumptuous flavors of Venice with a food-tasting walking tour through the city. Everything from prosecco to mozzarella is on offer as you make your way to the most charming food spots across the city. Along the way, you will learn about the history and be intrigued by the many fascinating assets of Venice.

Eat fish lasagna at Rialto market, indulge in cured meat from a local deli and eat your fill of traditional cicchetti to get a true taste of Venice. Go dining in Venice with a small group of travelers or take a private 3-hour tour for an unmatched intimate experience.

Walking tour and gondola ride in Venice

Pair a walking tour in Venice with a gondola ride to see the city from land and water. Your walking tour will pass by the house of Marco Polo, St. Mark’s Basilica, St. Mark’s Square and Rialto Bridge Market. Your tour will end with a lazy 30-minute gondola ride through the narrow canals, away from the busy Grand Canal.

What is on the itinerary of Venice walking tours?

Considering you can walk across the main island of Venice in less than an hour, you can be assured that you will see most of the city’s prominent landmarks. These are some of the fantastic stops you can expect on your Venice walking tour.

St. Mark’s Basilica

This famous cathedral has been the episcopal seat of the Patriarch of Venice in 1807 and is a prominent structure under the Catholic ordinance. Some walking tours include entry to this famous church and you will be overwhelmed with the splendor of the golden interior.

The exterior of St. Mark's Basilica is equally impressive, with five gigantic arches and marble columns leading to bronze doors. The domes that top the cathedral can be seen from far and wide and it sits on St. Mark’s Square in the heart of Venice.

Rialto Bridge

This 16th-century bridge is an iconic site in Venice and one of the four bridges that span the Grand Canal. The bridge’s ornate arches and distinct roof connect the sestieri of San Marco and San Polo and the bridge is seen as an engineering marvel from the Renaissance period.

On the banks of the Canal, you can visit the Rialto Market as well. The market has been an unwavering force in Venetian life for centuries and you can still savor some of the finest fresh produce in all the land.

The Doge's Palace

This impressive residence is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and one of the unmissable attractions in Venice. The Doge's Palace dates back nearly 1000 years, but it has undergone several reincarnations through the ages. Admire the intricate exterior that sits on the bank of the Grand Canal or book a walking tour that includes a visit to the opulent rooms of the palace.

How much do walking tours in Venice cost?

A basic historic tour of Venice costs around €25 per person. This is as part of a small group, but a private tour will cost around €130 per person for a 3-hour tour.

Family walking tours cost €190 per person, but children can join for only €40 and infants join for free.

Visiting the Jewish Quarter with a walking tour costs €50 per person or €75 with a Synagogue tour. A private Jewish Quarter tour would cost €120 per person.

Combo tours that include a gondola ride typically cost €50 to €100 per person, depending on the itinerary and group size.

Walking tours with food tastings cost €90 per person as part of a small group or €180 per person for a private experience.

Is antything included?

Basic walking tours in Venice include a knowledgeable guide that will escort you through the city. The same goes for the Jewish Quarter walking tour and entrance to the Synagogue is an optional extra.

Food-tasting walking tours in Venice take you to as many as 10 stops to savor snacks and drinks. Walking tours that visit Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Basilica will include your entry fee to both attractions. Family walking tours in Venice include several activities to keep kids entertained, hosted by your private tour guide.

Where is the starting point in Venice?

Walking tours in Venice start from various points across the city, depending on your tour’s focus. Basic walking tours start at a central meeting point like St. Mark’s Piazza or the Rialto Bridge, while others start from the tour operator’s office. Walking tours in the Jewish Quarter start at Ghetto Ebraico, where your guide will be waiting in bright clothing or with a sign.

How long do they last?

Most walking tours in Venice last around 2 hours. Food tours last between 3 and 4 hours, giving you plenty of time to savor the delicious treats along the way. The longest tours are ones that include visits to Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Basilica, lasting 4 hours.

Can wheelchair users participate?

Unfortunately, walking tours in Venice are generally not suitable for people with mobility impairments and wheelchair users.

When is the best time to go on a walking tour in Venice?

The best time for a walking tour in Venice at the beginning of your visit. These kinds of tours are designed to help you navigate the city and gain an understanding of its history. Tour guides are always willing to give recommendations for other activities and places to see during your stay.

In terms of weather, the best time to visit Venice is during the spring and fall when temperatures are mild and rainfall is less likely. The summer months can be hot and humid, while the winter months can be chilly and damp.

Travel tips

• Notify your tour operator if you have any food allergies or dietary requirements. Food samples on the tour are prepared ahead of time and no changes can be made on the day.
• Wear comfortable shoes as there is a fair amount of walking involved.
• Tours are offered in English, Italian, German and often Spanish. Make sure you book a tour in your preferred language for a more engaging experience.