Grand Canal Tours
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Venice is a city built on water, and the Grand Canal (Canale Grande) is its bustling main street. Lined with sumptuous Venetian palaces and crowded with gondolas, water taxis, and vaporetti (public ferries), this thoroughfare is a feast for the senses. The Grand Canal winds its way through the central neighborhoods of Venice from the Santa Lucia train station to St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco), passing under the iconic Rialto Bridge along the way, and functions as the scenic main artery for transporting both people and goods around the City of Canals.
The Basics
A sail down the Grand Canal is a trip through centuries of Venetian history, as historic palaces dating from the 13th to the 18th centuries rise out of the water along most of the route. Though stretches of the canal are lined with walkways, many of the important landmarks can be seen only from the water, so a small-group Grand Canal boat tour or combination walking-and-canal tour is by far the best way to go. For a historical tour of the canal, opt for a daytime sightseeing tour so you can see the ornate facades of Venice’s famous palaces. For a romantic journey, choose a moonlit gondola ride. And for a truly Venetian experience, opt for a gondola ride with a serenade!
Things to Know Before You Go
- Most Grand Canal gondola rides begin or end in St. Mark’s Square, home to St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace, and include a few picturesque minor canals along the way.
- Alongside Rome and Florence as one of the most popular destinations in Italy, Venice can get extremely crowded. To avoid a long wait at the motor launch, book your Venice tour tickets in advance.
- The palaces along the Grand Canal have architectural styles that span from the Byzantine to the Renaissance, and are best appreciated with an expert tour guide who can explain their history and importance.
- Note that Venice and the Grand Canal feature a great number of bridges, many of which are not wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The Grand Canal snakes its way through the center of Venice from the train station to St. Mark’s Square. All of Venice is pedestrian only, so to get from anywhere in the city to the Grand Canal, you must either walk or take a boat.
When to Get There
Venice is lovely all year round, and the Grand Canal is spectacular both by day and night.
The Islands of Venice
Venice is made up of over 100 small islands, so for a different perspective of this unique city on the water, take a boat tour to one of the quieter outlying islands such as Murano, famous for its glassblowing industry; Burano, known for its lace-making artisans; or Torcello, thought to be the first populated island the in Venetian lagoon.
Address: Venice, Veneto, Italy
Hours: Open 24 hours every day
Admission: Free
158 Tours and Activities to Experience Grand Canal
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Best of Venice Tour with St Mark’s Basilica and Grand Canal Boat tour
See the best of Venice in a day on a tour that combines a guided walk with a cruise along the bustling Grand Canal. Hear the history of St. Mark’s Square and Rialto Bridge from a guide, and visit St. Mark’s Basilica with a skip-the-line ticket to beat the long admission lines. Discover the tucked-away treasures of Venice’s backstreets and charming canals, and then finish on a high note: a water taxi cruise on the Grand Canal.
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From
$97.10
Price varies by group size
From
$97.10
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Venice Super-Saver: Doge’s Palace, Walking Tour & Grand Canal Boat Tour
Explore the best of Venice at a 10% discount with this Super Saver combo of three popular tours. Skip the line at the Doge’s Palace, where you can wander through ornate public rooms and across the notorious Bridge of Sighs. You’ll also head to the front of the long queue at St Mark’s Basilica to tour the dazzling interior of this Byzantine masterpiece including Pala d'Oro and enjoy a guided walking tour of Venice’s hidden gems. Finally, cruise down the Grand Canal aboard a motorboat and soak in the majestic passing scenery.
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From
$170.84
Price varies by group size
From
$170.84
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Semi Private Grand Canal 1-Hour Boat Tour
Experience the beauty of Venice by boat on this Grand Canal tour of the city built on water. Glide through the placid waters past palaces, churches, gardens, and bridges as you make your way along the iconic waterway. Then journey into some of the minor canals on this luxury motorboat. Bring the magic of these liquid streets to life on a tour that’s ideal for lovers, photographers, and travelers!
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From
$67.60
Price varies by group size
From
$67.60
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Venice Canal Cruise: 2-Hour Grand Canal and Secret Canals Semi-Private tour
Discover Venice’s hidden gems on a 2-hour cruise through the city’s secret canals. Watch scenes of daily Venetian life as you glide through the lesser-known neighborhoods of Cannaregio, Dorsoduro and the Jewish Ghetto. A guide will share insight into the city’s history, architecture and local legends. For a grand finale, head out into the wider waters of the Grand Canal and float beneath the iconic Rialto Bridge. Numbers are limited to nine people on this small-group tour for a more intimate experience.
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From
$141.34
Price varies by group size
From
$141.34
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Private Guided Tour: Venice Gondola Ride Including the Grand Canal
Enjoy a private ride through Venice’s iconic canals aboard a traditional gondola. On this classic Venetian experience, soak up famous sights like the Rialto Bridge and the ornate Ca’ d’Oro palace while your expert gondolier navigates the beautiful handmade boat through the Grand Canal and other waterways. A friendly local guide accompanies you on the ride to share interesting facts about Venetian history and architecture along the way.
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From
$460.90
per group
From
$460.90
per group
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Gear/equipment sanitized between use
Private Tour: Venice Grand Canal Evening Boat Tour
Spend a delightful evening cruising along the canals of Venice on this private boat tour. Take in the architectural masterpieces that line the Grand Canal and smaller waterways from aboard a comfortable modern water taxi, venturing further than a traditional gondola would allow. Learn about the artistic and cultural history of Venice from your English-speaking guide as you soak in the sights on your choice of a 1-hour or 2-hour ride.
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From
$460.90
per group
From
$460.90
per group
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Private Grand Canal Boat Tour and Murano Glass Experience
Cruise along Venice's most famous waterway with a private, 1-hour boat tour of the Grand Canal, followed by a trip across the Venetian Lagoon to the renowned glass-blowing island of Murano. Zip alongside magnificent palazzos and soak up the quiet charm of smaller canals as your driver relates the legends and history of 'the floating city.' In Murano, watch master glassblowers at a factory workshop and admire intricate finished pieces at the showroom.
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From
$602.24
per group
From
$602.24
per group
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Ticket & audioguide for Grand Canal
The banks of the Grand Canal have over 170 buildings, so exploring this area on a guided tour can sometimes feel rushed. This self-guided tour is ideal for travelers who like to discover a city at their own pace. You’ll avoid timetables and strict itineraries, and instead explore Venice at a time and speed that suits you. You can listen to the tour content easily by downloading a mobile app, and a boat ticket is included too.
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From
$21.08
From
$21.08
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Venice Walking Tour and Gondola Ride
Explore the famous sites and hidden charms of Venice on this walking tour, followed by a ride through the city’s canals on an iconic gondola. Follow your local guide through a romantic maze of surrounding backstreets to discover some of Venice’s lesser-known gems. Learn the fascinating history of Venice as you wander through narrow alleys and over stone footbridges, and then hop aboard a Venetian gondola for a leisurely ride along the Grand Canal.
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From
$55.31
From
$55.31
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Grand Canal Boat Private Tour: Murano and Burano 4 hrs
Glide through some of Venice's most famous waterways with a private 4-hour boat tour of the Grand Canal, Murano, and Burano. Watch glass blowers at work on Murano and lace makers on Burano. Travel by private motor boat along the picturesque Grand Canal.
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From
$1,093.86
per group
From
$1,093.86
per group
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Grand Canal boat tour and Murano glass experience with Hotel pick up
Nip through Venice the stylish way, in a comfortable water taxi, on this private tour, with one convenient flat rate for groups of up to 10. Admire ancient palaces, secret gardens, the Rialto Bridge, and more, as your guide introduces the city’s signature buildings and the families that made them great. Finish at Murano island, famed for glass for centuries, with a private tour of a historic workshop.
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From
$307.26
per group
From
$307.26
per group
Venice: Grand Canal by Gondola with commentary
Traverse the canals of Venice aboard a traditional gondola with your very own gondolier. Float along narrow waterways and hidden passages, admiring the beauty of one of Italy's most magical cities. Pass beneath centuries-old bridges and take in famous attractions such as St. Marks' Bell Tower and San Giorgio Island from the coziness of your flat-bottomed boat.
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From
$40.56
From
$40.56
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Small Group Venice Grand Canal Panoramic Tour
It is a truth universally acknowledged that visiting Venice and not taking a boat ride down the Grand Canal is a travelling sin. Experience the Floating City in all of its glory on a 1-hour motorboat tour in a group limited to 12. Ideal for first-time visitors, you’ll pass beautiful palazzo and sail beneath famous bridges such as the Accademia Bridge and the Rialto Bridge.
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From
$36.87
From
$36.87
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Transportation vehicles regularly sanitized
Venice Gondola Ride and Serenade
Experience Venice in the most Venetian way possible: via a shared gondola ride while being serenaded. Choose between an afternoon or evening ride and then hop on the six-person gondola by a gondolier who is clad in traditional garb. Then begin the ride, as part of a group of eight different gondolas, with a singer aboard one of the boats. In addition to the song being sun to you, enjoy the sites of Venice's main landmarks, including the grand Canal and Palazzo Barberino.
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From
$46.70
From
$46.70
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Venice: Gondola ride on Grand Canal with music and dinner
Experience Venice by Gondola with this romantic cruise on the Grand Canal. Enjoy skip the line access and admire landmark sites like Teatro La Fenice and the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, learn about the legendary city via multilingual app or brochure, enjoy being serenaded by a gondolier, and savor a delicious complimentary meal at Chiesa di Santa Maria del Giglio.
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From
$114.30
From
$114.30
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Small Group or Private Venice Food Tour: Cicchetti and Wine
Taste your way through the backstreet bars of Venice on this delicious food and wine tour. Follow your local guide to different ‘enotecas’ (wine bars) to discover where local Venetians go to drink and mingle. At each stop, sample regional wines and Prosecco served alongside plates of the popular Venetian appetizers called ‘cicchetti.’ Group size is limited to 12 to ensure a personalized experience.
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From
$122.48
Price varies by group size
From
$122.48
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Venice Highlights : City tour and Grand Canal boat Experience
Get a true Venetian experience on this 3-hour private tour. Follow your guide around the city and see the famous Piazza San Marco, Doges Palace, and the Basilica as you listen to the history of the Italian city. Then take a private boat along the Grand Canal and see the city from a different perspective and how people navigated the city for hundreds of years.
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From
$688.27
per group
From
$688.27
per group
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Private Grand Canal Boat Tour , Murano and Burano 6 hours
Experience one of the world’s most enchanting cities on this private boat tour of Venice. After a convenient hotel or cruise terminal pickup, travel with a local guide to explore the city’s famed canals. Visit St. Mark’s Square, marvel at Burano’s technicolor homes and beautiful lacework, witness a master glass-blower in Murano, and learn about the Grand Canal’s rich history and architecture during one comprehensive half-day cruise.
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From
$983.25
per group
From
$983.25
per group
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Grand Canal by Gondola and Secret Venice Tour
Already ticked off the main sights? Then get ready to explore Venice’s insider-only locations during this off-the-beaten-track guided walking tour, which also includes a thirty-minute gondola ride. Listen to exclusive commentary on unique locations, like the world-renowned Teatro La Fenice and the Scala del Bovolo, as you discover hidden shops and little-known canals.
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From
$65.14
From
$65.14
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Group or Private Venice In a Day: Basilica San Marco, Doges Palace & Gondola
First time in Venice? Maximize your time in the city with a full-day itinerary that ticks off all the most memorable attractions. Stroll across the Rialto Bridge and browse the lively Rialto fish market, then hop aboard a traditional gondola for a romantic cruise along the Grand Canal. Next, access St. Mark’s Basilica and gaze down over the city from the cathedral’s rooftop terrace. Finally, enjoy skip-the-line entrance to the grandiose Doge’s Palace. This small-group tour is limited to 15 people ensuring a personalized experience.
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From
$158.55
From
$158.55
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Classic 30-Minute Gondola Ride in Venice
Explore Venice's famous canals on a guided gondola ride through the city. Meander beneath bridges and along quiet, peaceful stretches in a traditional Venetian boat, taking in sights such as the Rialto Bridge and Campo Manin as you go. Join up to five others—along with your expert gondolier—in enjoying one of Venice's most leisurely and original pastimes, and don't miss this chance to experience the Grand Canal from the water.
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From
$38.10
From
$38.10
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Transportation vehicles regularly sanitized
Skip the Line: Hard Rock Cafe Venice Including Meal
Beat the crowds at the Hard Rock Cafe in Venice for a rock ‘n’ roll night out complete with stunning canal views. Skip the long line when you arrive and head straight to your table. Enjoy classic American fare surrounded by memorabilia from all your favorite musicians, and customize your experience with your choice of a 2- or 3-course meal.
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From
$32.35
From
$32.35
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Private Tour: Venice Gondola Ride with Serenade
Embark on a quintessential Venetian experience with a private, serenaded gondola ride through the famed canals of Venice. Glide past ancient palazzi and magnificent cathedrals on a traditional handcrafted gondola, while musicians serenade you with mood-setting Italian ballads. Gondolas have room for up to four passengers, so it’s the perfect opportunity for romance or an unforgettable family experience.
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From
$447.73
per group
From
$447.73
per group
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Venice in one Day combined city tour with Skip the line
If you’re looking to see most of Venice’s well-known sights all in one day, put your trust in this fun combination day tour. This package includes a gondola ride on the Grand Canal, a walking tour of the city, and a boat tour along the city’s most secluded canals. Plus, it gives you a skip-the-line privilege at Doge's Palace (Palazzo Ducale) and at St. Mark's Basilica.
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From
$196.22
From
$196.22
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
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