Venice’s charm isn’t just in its canals and historic squares; it’s in the experiences you collect along the way. From gliding across the lagoon on a private boat to savoring Venetian wines in local taverns, the city offers plenty of ways to dive deeper than just sightseeing. We particularly love the Venice: Murano & Burano Guided Glass Tour by Private Boat for its intimate look at artisans’ craftwork, and the Venice: After-Hours St. Mark’s Tour for a peaceful, crowd-free exploration of iconic sights. Whether you’re after cultural insights, culinary delights, or exclusive behind-the-scenes access, Venice’s tours offer meaningful ways to connect with the city’s essence.
Quick Overview
Venice’s tours span a variety of interests—from art and history to food and wine. You can explore the stunning St. Mark’s Square with skip-the-line access or venture off the beaten path with a food and wine tasting in the Ghetto. For those interested in craftsmanship, a private boat to Murano and Burano reveals Venice’s glassblowing and lace traditions. For a touch of adventure, the half-day lagoon trip via speedboat offers a lively way to see more islands beyond the tourist crowds. Each experience is tailored to different preferences, budgets, and activity levels, ensuring there’s something for all.
1. Venice: Murano & Burano Guided Glass Tour by Private Boat
At number 1, this private boat tour offers an intimate experience that many crowded ferries can’t match. It lasts about 5 hours, including stops at Murano, famous for its glassblowing, and Burano, renowned for its colorful houses and delicate lace. Your guide will lead you through artisan workshops where you watch master glassmakers craft delicate pieces, and see women making lace on Burano’s narrow streets. You also get to pick up a keepsake directly from the artisans, which makes the experience tangible and memorable. The round-trip private boat transport means you skip the crowds and travel at a relaxed pace.
Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, with reviews like “Giovanni was excellent—very professional and enthusiastic,” and “Selena made our day so special.” The tour is perfect for those who want a personalized experience with flexible timing and the chance to explore at your own pace. The cost is well justified by the private boat and exclusive access, making it a fantastic choice for a more refined, less touristy day.
Bottom Line: For those who value exclusivity and artisan craftsmanship, this tour offers a true Venice experience away from the crowds.
2. Venice: Doge’s Palace, St Mark’s Basilica, optional Terrace
This walking tour delivers priority access to Venice’s most famous landmarks, including the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica. The tour lasts between 2 to 5 hours, giving you ample time to soak in the history and art of these iconic sites without waiting in line. Your guide will lead you through the Sala del Maggior Consiglio and over the Bridge of Sights, sharing stories of Venice’s political power and artistic masterpieces. An optional upgrade includes ascending the Terrace of St. Mark’s Basilica for panoramic views of the city.
Reviews highlight the value of skip-the-line tickets and the guide’s engaging storytelling. One guest notes, “Denise was the best tour guide we’ve had—so knowledgeable and personable,” emphasizing the importance of a good guide to bring Venice’s highlights to life. The tour suits travelers who want a focused, efficient visit, with deep insights into Venice’s history and architecture.
Bottom Line: Ideal for first-timers wanting to see the essentials without the hassle of long queues, especially if you appreciate engaging stories.
3. Venice like a Local: Food and Wine Tasting Tour
For 2.5 hours, this small-group food tour takes you through Venice’s hidden culinary venues, pairing Cicchetti—Venetian tapas—with local wines. Led by a friendly guide, you’ll explore charming districts, crossing the Grand Canal on a traghetti gondola and visiting historic taverns and Mercato di Rialto. The focus is on authentic flavors and local atmosphere, rather than tourist traps.
Guests love the personal attention and the opportunity to learn about Venetian food traditions, with reviews stating “Olimpea was so amazing—she shared her tips and stories along the way.” The tour is perfect for food lovers eager to sample regional dishes and discover local wine culture. The small size ensures an intimate experience, making it a highlight for culinary travelers.
Bottom Line: Great for those wanting a taste of Venetian life combined with delicious bites and drinks.
4. Venice: San Marco to Rialto Walk & Spritz Like a Local
This 2-3 hour walking tour takes you from St. Mark’s Square to the Rialto Bridge, with a focus on Venetian everyday life. Along the way, you’ll stop at local bacari to sip a Spritz, a quintessential Venetian aperitivo. You’ll also see Venetian masterpieces and admire the Palazzo Soranzo Van Axel, adding a cultural touch.
Reviews note the tour’s friendly pace and authentic experience, with one saying, “It was a fun, relaxed way to see the city and enjoy a local drink.” Optional upgrades include a gondola ride or visiting a Gothic Palace, adding extra charm to your day. The tour is suited for travelers who want to blend sightseeing with local customs and enjoy a social, laid-back afternoon.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a relaxed, authentic walk with a taste of Venetian social life.
5. Venice: After-Hours St. Mark’s Tour (Doge’s Palace option)
This 75-minute to 3.5-hour after-hours tour offers an exclusive look at St. Mark’s Basilica and optionally the Doge’s Palace, avoiding the daytime crowds. Your small group gains access to off-limits areas like the secret passageways and hidden chambers, including Casanova’s prison cell and the torture chambers.
Guests rave about the intimate atmosphere and the insider stories shared by guides like Elena and Francesca. One reviewer mentions, “It was priceless to be inside these landmarks when they’re usually overwhelmed with travelers.” Its best suited for travelers interested in history, architecture, and unique access.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice if you’re after a peaceful, immersive experience of Venice’s most famous sites.
6. Venice: St Mark’s Square & Basilica Priority Entrance & Tour
This one-hour guided tour provides priority access into St. Mark’s Basilica, allowing you to skip long lines. Your guide will explain the mosaics, artwork, and symbolism behind Venice’s most iconic church, giving you a personalized, in-depth visit.
Guests highlight the convenience of fast-track entry and the expert commentary offered. One says, “The mosaics are stunning, and the guide’s stories helped me appreciate the church much more.” It’s suited for visitors who want a focused tour of the basilica without wasting time standing in line.
Bottom Line: A perfect brief visit for architecture and art lovers who value efficiency.
7. Venice Offbeat Food & Drinks Tour with Eating Europe
This 3.5-hour small-group tour explores Venice’s Cannaregio district and Jewish Ghetto, revealing hidden culinary treasures. You’ll visit cozy bacari, historic bakeries, and sample tapas, Venetian wines, and authentic tiramisu. Your guide shares local stories and culinary secrets behind each dish.
Guests praise the authenticity and variety of tastings, with reviews like “Anna included history and food, making it a perfect combination.” It’s ideal for travelers who want to eat like a local and see parts of Venice most travelers miss.
Bottom Line: Excellent for foodies eager for an authentic, off-the-beaten-path culinary experience.
8. From Venice: Prosecco Wine Region Tour with 2 Tastings
This 6-hour small-group tour takes you out of Venice to explore the Prosecco region, a UNESCO World Heritage site. You’ll visit two family-run wineries, learn the secrets of sparkling wine production, and enjoy a light lunch of local dishes. Tasting premium Prosecco amid stunning vineyard vistas makes this a truly enjoyable day.
Guests rave about the passionate local guides and beautiful scenery, with reviews like: “The wineries were intimate and passionate about their craft.” It’s best suited for wine lovers who appreciate quality tastings and scenic drives.
Bottom Line: For wine enthusiasts, this trip offers a delicious and picturesque experience.
9. Venice: Doges Palace, Prison, and Secret Passageways Tour
During this 2.5-hour tour, you’ll go behind the scenes of Doge’s Palace, exploring secret passageways, prison chambers, and Casanova’s cell. It’s limited to 20 people, making it a personal and revealing journey into Venice’s darker corners.
Guests like Roberta C. remark, “The secret passageways tour is worth every euro,” praising the exclusive access and engaging storytelling. Perfect for travelers who want to explore less-visible parts of Venice’s most famous building.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice if you’re after an immersive, insider’s look at Venice’s political and criminal past.
10. Venice: Cicchetti, Spritz, and Wine Tour in Ghetto Ebraico
This 2-hour tour combines food, history, and local ambiance in Venice’s Jewish Ghetto. You’ll taste cicchetti and sip Spritz at several local bars, while learning about the neighborhood’s historic significance.
Reviews highlight the personal stories and authentic atmosphere, with one saying, “Marina’s tour made me feel like a local for a few hours.” It’s perfect for those wanting to combine culinary delights with cultural insights.
Bottom Line: Ideal for curious travelers interested in Venice’s diverse neighborhoods and culinary traditions.
11. Venice: Private Walking Tour with a Local
This customizable private tour lets you design your own Venice experience with a local guide. You choose the start point and focus—whether it’s art, hidden alleys, or favorite cafes. It’s great for travelers wanting a bespoke day with personalized tips and local stories.
Guests say, “Our guide was passionate and flexible, showing us Venice through her eyes,” emphasizing the tailored approach. Suitable for those who want an intimate, flexible experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who prefer a personalized, relaxed exploration of Venice.
12. Venice: Murano and Burano Half-Day Lagoon Trip
Finally, this speedboat trip combines Murano’s glassmaking and Burano’s colorful charm in about 4 to 4.5 hours. You’ll watch master glassblowers, explore lace shops, and take plenty of photos of the painted houses. The fast pace keeps you energized and allows you to see both islands comfortably.
Reviewers love the lively boat ride and beautiful scenery, with a reviewer noting that it’s a “great way to see more than just Venice’s main island.” It’s best suited for active travelers who want a quick, immersive island experience.
Bottom Line: An easy, lively way to see two of Venice’s most iconic islands in half a day.
How to Choose the Right Tour
Picking the perfect experience depends on your interests, budget, and how much time you want to spend. For a luxurious, artisan-focused day, the Murano & Burano Private Boat is hard to beat. If you’re after cultural highlights, the Doge’s Palace and Basilica tour offers quick, skip-the-line access. Food lovers should consider the Venice like a Local or Offbeat Food & Drinks tours for authentic, flavorful experiences.
For more exclusive, behind-the-scenes access, try the After-Hours Doge’s Palace or the Secret Passageways tour. If time is limited but you want a taste of the islands, the Murano & Burano Lagoon Trip offers a lively, scenic excursion.
Final thoughts
Venice’s tours range from luxurious private outings to local tasting adventures. For families or those seeking a relaxed pace, the San Marco to Rialto walk makes for a fun afternoon. Culture vultures will appreciate the secret passageways or the exclusive after-hours visits. Early booking is advised, especially for popular options, to secure the best time slots. No matter what you choose, Venice’s tours promise a richer, more meaningful visit—so pick one that suits your style and book early!