The Grand Canal, Piazza San Marco, Carnevale masks, and darkened alleyways full of mystery. This is likely what you know about Venice. But what if Venice was a completely different place than you expect? In this StayCation exploring one of the world’s most mysterious and romantic cities, we will uncover the city that the locals know, and get to the heart of what it means to be Venetian.

The floating city shaped like a fish is divided into six districts or sestiere. Each day, we will explore a district, seeing daily life in parts of the city where tourists rarely venture. Our activities will focus on learning about the lagoon, the artists of the city, and the truly surprising history that most tourists miss.

We have enjoyed our small groups so much that we will continue to keep numbers low and personal attention high.

This itinerary is subject to improvement, your guide may rearrange or change activities without notice.

In the late afternoon, we meet in our centrally located hotel for a tour orientation. Then we will board a private water taxi for a joyride down the Grand Canal, finishing with a dinner of local Venetian specialties.

In the morning we will be joined by a local guide to take us around the back streets of this unique city and finish our walk on Piazza San Marco. Our evening will start with a gondola ride (you really must) and maybe a light dinner to finish the day (on your own).

Our focus this morning will be a deeper look at art with a local guide, visiting the Accademia Gallery filled with venetian masterpieces, and after that the famous “Scuola Grande di San Rocco” a real tribute to the genius of Tintoretto, one of the greatest among the venetian painters.

Rest of the day on your own.

Today we will hop aboard a Vaporetto and explore the islands of the lagoon and learn about the history that shaped the early days of Venice (Burano and Torcello). Lunch together in Torcello in a bucolic island setting, then back to the hotel to relax, or explore more hidden corners on your own.

Today we’ll learn how to cook some Venetian specialties from our friend and cook Michele in his own apartment! Get ready to roll up your sleeves and enjoy great food and wines!

After a wonderful lunch together, you can choose to end the day by visiting a spectacular Gothic Church (S.Maria dei Frari) or simply find a perfect spot to enjoy the sunset!

You can sleep in today because the main activity on our last day of the tour will be to learn the basics of how to row a Venetian boat (weather permitting)! Followed by some local cicchetti (AKA Venetian Tapas) to wrap up the late morning schedule.

The rest of the day will be free to buy last-minute souvenirs and to say goodbye to Venice, sipping a coffee or a Spritz overlooking a quiet Campo.

Farewell Dinner together in a nearby local restaurant.

The tour is over after breakfast.  Your guide will be available this morning to help you with your further travel plans. Grazie e arrivederci Venezia!