Exploring the hidden gems and local hotspots of Venice can be a captivating experience. This private tour offers a chance to venture beyond the well-trodden paths, guided by a local expert who’ll reveal the city’s lesser-known treasures. From the iconic Colonna di San Todaro to the grand Teatro La Fenice, each stop promises to peel back the layers of Venice’s rich history and culture. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this customizable tour promises to provide an engaging and immersive perspective on one of the world’s most enchanting cities.
Key Points

- This private tour showcases Venice’s iconic and hidden gems, including St. Mark’s Basilica, Rialto Bridge, and the Dorsoduro district.
- The tour is led by a local expert, providing insightful commentary and a customizable experience to explore the city’s artistic treasures.
- The 2-hour tour is available in multiple languages and offers a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
- Highlights of the tour include visits to the grand Teatro La Fenice opera house and the traditional Squero di San Trovaso boatyard.
- The tour starts at the Colonna di San Todaro in St. Mark’s Square and focuses on local favorites, such as Gelateria Nico.
Tour Overview

The "Venice: Private City Hidden Gems and Local Hotspots Tour" offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the city’s lesser-known treasures.
Priced from $194.76 per person, this 2-hour tour is available in multiple languages including Spanish, English, French, German, and Italian.
With a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, it provides booking flexibility.
The tour starts at the Colonna di San Todaro in St. Mark’s Square and includes visits to iconic sites like the Doge’s Palace and Rialto Bridge, as well as hidden gems like the Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo.
Throughout, a local expert guide provides insights into Venice’s rich culture and history.
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Itinerary Highlights

This tour takes participants on a captivating journey through Venice’s historic landmarks and hidden gems.
The itinerary starts at the iconic Colonna di San Todaro in St. Mark’s Square, where the guide provides insights into landmarks like the opulent St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace.
The tour then winds through the city, showcasing the picturesque Rialto Bridge, the ornate Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo, and the grand Teatro La Fenice opera house.
Venturing into the charming Dorsoduro district, visitors discover the stunning Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute and the lively Zattere promenade.
The tour culminates at the Squero di San Trovaso, a traditional boatyard.
Guide and Tour Experience

Guiding the tour is a local expert, providing insightful commentary on Venice’s rich culture and captivating history.
As you stroll through the city’s alleyways and over its bridges, the guide points out hidden gems and artistic treasures. The experience is customizable, allowing you to explore specific interests.
Local favorites, like the renowned Gelateria Nico, are highlighted. Throughout the tour, the guide engages participants, fostering a personalized and engaging experience.
With their expertise and passion, the tour offers an authentic glimpse into Venice’s vibrant spirit, creating lasting memories for all who partake.
Meeting Point and What to Bring
To begin the tour, participants should meet at the designated starting location between the two columns in St. Mark’s Square.
This meeting point, known as the Column of Saint Theodore and the Column of Saint Mark, offers a convenient and easily recognizable gathering spot.
Attendees are advised to arrive 10 minutes early to ensure a punctual start.
As for what to bring, the tour recommends:
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Comfortable walking shoes
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A water bottle, especially on hot days
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Appropriate clothing for the weather
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Any personal requests or specific interests to discuss with the guide
Weather Policy
The tour operates rain or shine, unless cases of high tide or heavy rain necessitate cancellation. In such instances, a full refund will be provided.
| Weather Conditions | Tour Status |
|——————-|————-|
| Light Rain | Operates |
| Moderate Rain | Operates |
| Heavy Rain | Cancelled |
| High Tide | Cancelled |
This weather policy ensures guests can explore Venice’s hidden gems regardless of the weather, while prioritizing safety during extreme conditions. Travelers are advised to dress appropriately and stay prepared for any precipitation.
Prefer keeping things personal? Here are more private experiences we've reviewed in Venice
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Customer Reviews

Customers have provided overwhelmingly positive feedback on the Venice: Private City Hidden Gems and Local Hotspots Tour. The tour boasts an impressive overall rating of 4.8/5 based on 12 reviews.
Key highlights include:
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Highly rated guide at 5/5
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Excellent value for money at 4.8/5
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Discoveries of new, picturesque places in Venice
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Some concerns about the unstructured approach noted
While most guests appreciated the customizable nature of the tour, a few felt the itinerary could be more organized.
Booking and Flexibility
With a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, the Venice: Private City Hidden Gems and Local Hotspots Tour offers booking flexibility.
Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later, making it convenient to plan ahead. The 2-hour tour is available in multiple languages, catering to a diverse range of visitors.
Whether guests prefer Spanish, English, French, German, or Italian, they’ll receive personalized insights from a local expert guide.
This customizable experience allows participants to explore hidden corners and pursue their specific interests, ensuring an unforgettable journey through the Venetian city.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Many People Are Usually in a Tour Group?
The size of tour groups can vary, but they’re typically small to provide a more personalized experience. Many private tours accommodate just a few participants, allowing for flexibility and more interaction with the guide.
Is the Tour Available in Other Languages Besides the Listed Ones?
The tour is available in Spanish, English, French, German, and Italian. However, it’s unclear if the tour can accommodate other languages beyond the ones specifically listed in the details provided.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Specific Interests?
The tour can be customized to include specific interests. The itinerary is flexible, allowing you to explore the city’s hidden gems and explore areas that align with your personal preferences.
Are There Any Restroom Breaks or Opportunities to Purchase Food/Drinks?
The tour allows for flexibility to accommodate personal requests and interests. While there aren’t scheduled restroom or food breaks, the guide can point out cafes and restrooms along the way as needed during the customizable 2-hour experience.
How Experienced Are the Tour Guides, and What Qualifications Do They Have?
The tour guides are highly experienced local experts who provide insightful commentary on Venice’s rich culture and history. They’re knowledgeable about the city’s hidden gems and can customize the tour to suit your specific interests.
The Sum Up
The "Venice: Private City Hidden Gems and Local Hotspots Tour" offers an immersive and customizable experience for those seeking a unique glimpse of the city. With a knowledgeable local guide, a flexible itinerary, and a high customer rating, it’s an excellent choice for visitors looking to explore both well-known and lesser-known Venetian treasures. The tour’s reasonable price and flexible cancellation policy make it an appealing option for a memorable and personalized exploration of Venice.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Private Tours in Venice
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