After a hearty breakfast at your hotel, today a qualified local guide will lead you for a walking tour of the stunning historical center if Venice.
Meet your private guide in the hotel lobby and set out on foot for a 2-hour walking tour, discovering the highlights of Venice. Head to St Mark's Square, the heart of political and religious power of the Venetian Republic for centuries. Here you can spot the grand 11th century church of St Mark’s Basilica, nicknamed the Church of Gold for its sheer opulence and position as a status symbol of Venetian wealth.
Adjacent is St Mark’s Campanile, the imposing 12th century bell tower, standing at 323 feet tall. Visually dominating the entire northern stretch of the square are the arcaded Procuratie Vecchie buildings, in classical and Gothic style.
Just off the square, and lining the Grand Canal, admire the Gothic style exterior of the 13th century Doge’s Palace, former residence to the supreme ruler of the Venetian Republic of antiquity. Learn of its adjoining former prison, connected to the Palace by the Bridge of Sighs, which retains the true secrets of how a city built on swamps became one of the most enlightened cities in the western world. Hear tales of illustrious Venetian characters like Marco Polo and Casanova, continuing along to the lively Campo Santa Maria Formosa with its outstanding Venetian palaces, and the Church of San Giovanni e Paolo (considered the Pantheon of Venice).
Your walking tour concludes at the evocative Rialto Bridge overlooking the Grand Canal. From here, you may continue with independent exploration or return to your hotel.
In the afternoon, after time for lunch, sit back, relax and admire the views during a traditional Venetian Gondola ride. You'll find it remarkable how peaceful it is to see this bustling city from the water.
After boarding your gondola, your fully licensed Gondolier will navigate your vessel through the narrow canals and beneath the many stone bridges of Venice during a serene, half-hour gondola ride. Gently guide on this traditional means of aquatic travel along the Venetian Grand Canal, passing the many landmarks and sites that have made Venice a global tourist hub, including the 16th century Rialto Bridge, and the stunning Ca' d'Oro mansion with its arched Gothic exterior. A quintessential Venetian experience!
In the evening enjoy a canal side dinner at one of our restaurant recommendations.