Venice Morning Highlights: Piazza San Marco to Grand Canal

Peel back the layers of Venice's captivating history and architecture on this morning tour from Piazza San Marco to the Grand Canal, where enchantment awaits.

Exploring the iconic sights of Venice on a morning tour from Piazza San Marco to the Grand Canal is a captivating experience. Guided by local experts, visitors will uncover the city’s rich history and stunning architecture while wandering through picturesque streets and canals. From the grandeur of Doge’s Palace to the tranquility of minor waterways, this tour promises an immersive glimpse into the essence of La Serenissima. Whether a first-time or seasoned traveler, the highlights of this walking and gondola adventure will leave you eager to discover more.

Key Points

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  • The 2.5-hour Venice Morning Highlights tour starts at Piazza San Marco and includes a guided walking tour and a shared gondola ride along the Grand Canal.

  • The tour highlights iconic Venetian landmarks like the Doge’s Palace, known for its Venetian Gothic architecture and historical significance.

  • Pricing ranges from $125.13 to $118.87 per person, with up to 5% savings, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

  • The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility issues or babies under 1 year old, and large bags or luggage are not permitted.

  • The itinerary may change based on weather conditions, and the shared tour format encourages interaction among participants.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Duration

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The Venice Morning Highlights tour blends the city’s rich history and scenic beauty, offering visitors a 2.5-hour immersive experience.

Priced from $125.13 to $118.87 per person, the tour provides up to a 5% savings. Guests can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Those who wish to reserve now and pay later can do so with this option. The tour starts at Calle larga de l’Ascension, 1256, in Piazza San Marco, providing an ideal launch point to explore the highlights of Venice.

Pricing and Cancellation Policy

venice-morning-highlights-piazza-san-marco-to-grand-canal

Priced from $125.13 to $118.87 per person, the Venice Morning Highlights tour offers up to a 5% savings.

Offering up to 5% savings, the Venice Morning Highlights tour is priced between $125.13 and $118.87 per person.

A reserve now and pay later option is available, and free cancellation is allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This ensures flexibility for travelers to plan their visit without financial risk.

The tour’s competitive pricing and generous cancellation policy make it an attractive choice for those seeking to experience the historic sights and scenic beauty of Venice during the morning hours.

Starting Point and Guided Walking Tour Highlights

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Starting at Calle larga de l’Ascension 1256, near the San Marco Post Office, the guided walking tour blends history and scenic beauty across Venice’s renowned landmarks.

Explore the Doge’s Palace, marveling at its Venetian Gothic architecture and significance.

Visit the prominent Santa Maria Formosa square and church, rich with spiritual heritage.

Learn about the tombs of Doges and Bartolomeo Colleoni’s statue at Campo dei Santi Giovanni e Paolo.

The tour culminates with a shared gondola ride along the Grand Canal and minor waterways, providing a unique perspective of the city’s iconic canals.

Doge’s Palace and Venetian Gothic Architecture

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The Doge’s Palace stands as a magnificent example of Venetian Gothic architecture, captivating visitors with its ornate facades and historical significance. As part of the guided walking tour, guests will have the opportunity to explore this iconic landmark and learn about its rich past.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Architecture | Blending Byzantine, Gothic, and Renaissance styles |

| Significance | Served as the residence of the Venetian ruler and seat of government |

| Highlights | Opulent Doge’s Apartments, impressive courtyard, and Bridge of Sighs |

The Doge’s Palace offers a glimpse into the grandeur and power of the once-mighty Venetian Republic, leaving a lasting impression on all who visit.

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Spiritual Heritage at Santa Maria Formosa

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One prominent stop on the Venice morning tour is the Santa Maria Formosa, a historic church that showcases the city’s rich spiritual heritage.

Guests will explore this prominent square and church, learning about its significance. Founded in the 7th century, the Santa Maria Formosa is known for its Byzantine-style architecture and impressive collection of Renaissance art.

Visitors can admire the church’s ornate interior and fascinating history as part of the guided walking tour.

With its deep roots in Venetian culture, the Santa Maria Formosa provides a glimpse into the spiritual heart of this captivating city.

Tombs of Doges and Bartolomeo Colleoni’s Statue

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Another prominent stop on the Venice morning tour is the Campo dei Santi Giovanni e Paolo, which features the tombs of Venetian Doges and the impressive statue of Bartolomeo Colleoni.

This historic square showcases the final resting places of past Doges, rulers of the Venetian Republic.

Towering over the square is the bronze equestrian statue of Bartolomeo Colleoni, a renowned Venetian condottiero (mercenary captain).

Designed by Andrea del Verrocchio, the statue is considered a masterpiece of Renaissance sculpture and a highlight of the walking tour.

Visitors can learn about the significant historical figures and their lasting legacies in this picturesque Venetian square.

Gondola Ride Along the Grand Canal and Minor Canals

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After exploring the historic Campo dei Santi Giovanni e Paolo, the tour culminates in a gondola ride along the renowned Grand Canal and minor canals.

This leisurely cruise allows guests to witness the city’s stunning architecture and lively waterways from a unique perspective. The gondola ride is shared, with seating assigned by the experienced gondolier.

Though not guided, this tranquil boat journey provides a serene conclusion to the tour’s exploration of Venetian history and landmarks. Guests can sit back, relax, and soak in the beauty of Venice’s iconic canals before concluding their memorable morning in the city.

Important Information and Restrictions

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What important information do guests need to know before embarking on this Venice tour? Visitors should arrive 20 minutes early to the meeting point at Calle larga de l’Ascension 1256, near the San Marco Post Office, to present their voucher and receive their tickets. Due to the walking nature of the tour, it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues or babies under 1 year old. Plus, guests can’t bring large bags or luggage, and the itinerary may change based on the weather. Lastly, this is a shared tour, so participants should expect interaction with others on the experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Can I Join the Tour if I’m Traveling Alone?

Yes, you can join this tour even if they’re traveling alone. The tour is shared, so solo travelers can expect to interact with other participants during the experience.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Walking Tour?

The tour does not specify a maximum group size. It’s a shared tour, so participants can expect interaction with other tour-goers. The itinerary and experience will be the same regardless of the total group size.

Are Audio Guides Available in Languages Other Than English?

The tour provides personal audio systems and headphones for the walking portion, but the commentary is only available in English. There’s no information about audio guides in other languages being offered.

Are There Any Discounts for Students or Senior Citizens?

The tour doesn’t offer specific discounts for students or seniors. However, the price range provides a savings of up to 5% off the standard rate for all travelers.

Can the Gondola Ride Be Customized for a Private Experience?

The tour doesn’t offer a private gondola ride option. The gondola ride is a shared experience, with seating assigned by the gondolier. However, visitors can explore private gondola tours separately from this package.

The Sum Up

The Venice Morning Highlights tour offers a captivating way to explore the city’s iconic landmarks and scenic canals. With a guided walking tour and shared gondola ride, travelers can enjoy Venice’s rich history and architectural beauty. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this 2.5-hour experience provides an excellent introduction to the charming lagoon city.

You can check availability for your dates here: