GONDOLA RIDES
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GondolaRides

Venice Gondola Rides and Tours

Skip the hassle of waiting in long lines and book the best Venice Gondola Rides online. Enjoy the best deals, get discounts, and book packages from handpicked and verified tour operators. A trip to Venice isn’t worth much until you’ve sailed its scenic canals on a relaxing gondola ride. Choose from a wide variety that includes tours with audio or live commentary, sightseeing boat tours, Grand Canal tours, romantic sunset rides, and more. The very symbol of the floating city, gondola rides are heavily in demand throughout the year and can sometimes be overpriced. So book well in advance to ensure that you don’t get fleeced and enjoy a wonderful journey through the iconic canals of Venice. You can also explore other Venice attractions like Murano And Burano Tours, Doge's Palace, and more.

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Our tips for Gondola Rides

  • Book in advance. Gondola ride is a popular tourist activity in Venice. So, make sure to book it in advance, especially during the peak season to avoid long waiting times.
  • Dress appropriately. Be sure to dress appropriately for the occasion if you want to take a romantic gondola ride. There is a chance of getting wet, so avoid wearing uncomfortable clothes.
  • Be respectful of the gondolier. Gondoliers are skilled professionals who take pride in their work. Be respectful towards them and follow their instructions to stay safe. Refrain from touching the boat's sides or standing up during the ride.
  • Take pictures. Ensure that you bring a camera to capture the unique perspective of the city during the gondola ride. Take pictures of the canals, bridges and other beautiful landmarks as you sail past them.
  • Relax and enjoy the ride. It is very important to relax and enjoy the ride for an unforgettable experience. You can also listen to music to soak in the vibes.
  • Choose a quieter route. During the peak tourist season, certain canals in Venice may be congested and boisterous. If you desire a more serene and romantic ride, request that the gondolier take you on a quieter route, away from the bustling locations.
  • Negotiate. The cost of a gondola ride may differ based on the duration and time of day. Before boarding, it's important to discuss the price with the gondolier and confirm various inclusions such as the number of individuals and the ride's duration.

Good to know

Venice is made up of 118 small islands situated in a lagoon in the Adriatic Sea. Over 150 canals and 400 bridges connect Venice that can be accessed via a gondola ride. A gondola is a Venetian boat that has a flat bottom and has been used as a mode of transport to navigate over shallow waters for over 1000 years.

A gondola ride is one of the best tourist activities in Venice that offers a unique perspective to explore the city from the water. Generally, tourists take a 40-minute gondola ride that starts at 80 Euros. Initially, gondolas used to be colourful but after a 16th-century law, they were required to be painted black. Gondolas are handcrafted and may take months to make. They are usually made up of wood from oak, cherry and walnut. People who steer gondolas are called gondoliers. There are over 400 gondolas in Venice that are either owned individually or by companies. One of the most popular gondola songs is Barcarolle which is from Jacques Offenbach's opera "The Tales of Hoffmann."

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Q: What is the best time to book a gondola tour in Venice?
    A:

    April to October are the busiest months in Venice and also the most expensive. These months constitute the summer season and can be busy. July and August are humid months but the weather is quite favourable. The winter season in Venice is from November to March. There will be fewer crowds and ticket prices will be affordable as well. The best time to book a Venice boat ride is in the late afternoon or early evening when the number of people has reduced, and the lighting is ideal for capturing photographs.

  • Q: How much does a gondola ride cost in Venice?
    A:

    The cost of a gondola ride depends on various factors such as the time of the day, duration and the number of passengers. A typical gondola ride starts at 30 Euros for a 30 to 40-minute ride.

  • Q: How long does a gondola ride in Venice last?
    A:

    The usual duration of a gondola ride in Venice is about 30 to 40 minutes, although you can bargain with the gondolier for a lengthier or briefer ride.

  • Q: What should I expect during a gondola ride in Venice?
    A:

    During a gondola ride, you can witness the breathtaking views of the city, its canals, bridges and other key landmarks. It is an idyllic way to explore the city while also listening to the traditional music played by the gondolier.

  • Q: What should I wear for a Venice gondola tour?
    A:

    It is advisable to dress appropriately for a gondola ride in Venice. Comfortable, non-slip footwear is preferred, and clothing that is prone to getting wet should be avoided. Dressing stylishly is also appropriate for the event.

  • Q: What are the top Venice boat rides and gondola rides for a guided trip?
    A:

    Some of the top Venice boat rides are Classic Venice Gondola ride with commentary, 1-hour Private Gondola Ride With Guide, Private Gondola Ride With Meal at Ai Coristi Restaurant, Renew Your Wedding Vows On a Venetiamn Godola, and more.

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