Hidden Canals of Venice: Rialto Walking Tour & 30-Minute Gondola Experience
Trade the tourist loop for a more intimate Venice: a 2½-hour guided walk that threads Rialto’s alleys, points out La Fenice and Marco Polo’s house, and ends with a 30-minute shared gondola ride and a visit to the Gondola Gallery.
The Experience
Before You Go
Download the audio before you go
The gondola segment includes an audio commentary—download the app’s files ahead of time to avoid connectivity hiccups.
Expect gaps between activities
There is a scheduled gap between the walking portion and the gondola ride—use it to visit the Gondola Gallery or get a quick espresso nearby.
Mind the acqua alta
Tours may be postponed or refunded in cases of exceptional high tide; keep an eye on local tide forecasts and the operator’s communications.
Dress for uneven streets
Sturdy, comfortable shoes are essential—Venetian stone and bridges are irregular and often wet.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Campo Santa Maria Formosa for quieter architecture and local cafés
- •The tiny Calle della Mandola for a perfect canal reflection shot
Wildlife
- •Seagulls
- •A few species of saltwater fish visible from bridges
Conservation Note
Rising tides and boat traffic stress historic foundations and waterways; choose operators that follow local regulations and avoid contributing to wake damage.
Venice grew from lagoon settlements tied to Byzantine and later maritime trade; the Rialto was its medieval commercial heart and shaped the city’s urban layout.
Photographer's Notes
- • From the Rialto Bridge looking east over the market
- • A small bridge near Campo San Gallo for intimate canal angles
- • Along the walk before the gondola launch for narrow-canal close-ups
What to Bring
Comfortable walking shoesEssential
Grippy soles and support help on slick stone, bridges and narrow alleys.
Light waterproof jacketEssential
Protects against sudden rain and spray during high-tide conditions.
Reusable water bottleEssential
Stay hydrated while walking; many campo cafés offer refills.
Small daypack or crossbody bag
Keeps valuables secure and leaves your hands free for photos and rails.
Common Questions
How long is the gondola ride?
The gondola portion is a shared 30-minute ride and can accommodate up to five people per gondola.
Where do we meet the guide?
Meet at Campo San Gallo beside St. Mark’s Square; the operator asks you to arrive five minutes before departure.
Can I choose my seat in the gondola?
Seats are assigned by the gondolier to balance the boat and take into account guests’ weight distribution.
What happens if there is high tide?
The tour may be postponed to the following day or refunded in cases of exceptional high tide (acqua alta); the operator will inform you if the tour can’t operate.
Is the tour accessible for people with limited mobility?
The tour is rated easy, but Venice’s bridges and steps make full wheelchair accessibility difficult—contact the operator for specific accommodations.
Do I need cash for anything extra?
Most inclusions are covered, but you may need small change for a coffee, tips, or the occasional €5 city access fee on certain dates.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2–3 hours
Location
Venice, Veneto
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; involves walking short distances over uneven pavements and standing during the gondola ride.
Ready to Explore Venice?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now