2-Days Venice trip from Rome – private tour

Key Points

• Private 2-day tour offering an exclusive Venice experience from Rome
• Includes train transportation and hotel in Venice, with hotel pickup and drop-off in Rome
• Visit key sights like Piazza San Marco, Rialto Bridge, and Santa Maria della Salute
• Enjoy a gondola ride and explore Venice’s historic bridges and charming streets
• Tour guided by an expert with a focus on avoiding crowds and offering a personal touch
• Price per person is approximately $1,164, booked on average 74 days in advance

Wide-Ranging Itinerary Covering Venice’s Iconic Landmarks

This 2-day private tour from Rome offers a comprehensive look at Venice’s most famous sights, combining guided visits, scenic views, and unique experiences. The tour starts early, with pickup at P.za della Repubblica in Rome, and includes transport by train to Venice, ensuring a smooth journey. The tour’s structure allows for full immersion in the city’s atmosphere while maintaining an efficient pace. It also includes hotel accommodation in Venice and round-trip transfers in Rome, offering convenience and comfort.

Exploring Venice’s Grand Canal and Its Architectural Marvels

The first day centers around Venice’s most important waterway, the Grand Canal. This 3.8 km long canal acts as the city’s main artery, dividing Venice into two parts. Traveling along the canal by ferry or gondola, visitors gain a sense of the city’s layout and grandeur. The guides highlight the history of this older-than-Venice waterway, built following the river’s path. The views of historic buildings and bridges lining the canal are highlights.

Next, the tour visits Piazza San Marco, Venice’s main square. Known as la Piazza, it hosts the 700-year-old basilica of San Marco, the San Marco Campanile, and the Clock Tower. This area functions as the cultural and social heart of Venice, and the guide provides insights into its importance. With around two hours allocated, visitors have time to admire these monuments and soak in the lively atmosphere.

Discovering Venice’s Historic Bridges and Local Markets

A key highlight is the Ponte di Rialto, the oldest of Venice’s four bridges spanning the Grand Canal. Connecting the districts of San Marco and San Polo, the Rialto Bridge offers spectacular views of the canal and access to the Rialto Market. The market presents a lively array of local produce and crafts, giving a taste of Venice’s daily life. Afterward, visitors can stroll to the Fontego dei Tedeschi’s panoramic terrace for a stunning view of the city.

This section emphasizes Venice’s bridges’ beauty and functionality, with around two hours dedicated to exploring these sites at a comfortable pace. The free access to the bridges and market makes this a practical yet memorable part of the day.

Visiting Santa Maria della Salute and the Bridge of Art

On the second day, the tour begins with Santa Maria della Salute, an iconic church built in honor of the Virgin Mary after the plague. Positioned at Punta della Dogana, the church’s location offers views of the Grand Canal and is visible upon entering Piazza San Marco. The two-hour visit allows for appreciation of its architecture and historical significance, with free admission.

Next, the Ponte dell’Accademia connects Dorsoduro and San Marco districts. As one of the four Grand Canal bridges, it provides excellent photo opportunities and access to the Gallerie dell’Accademia. Passing over the bridge, visitors see some of Venice’s most artistic and historic neighborhoods.

The Unique Spiral Staircase at Scala Contarini del Bovolo

A notable stop is the Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo, famous for its multi-arch spiral staircase. Known locally as the “snail” staircase, it offers a distinctive architectural feature and panoramic views of Venice from its top. The building’s history reflects multiple transformations due to various owners, adding depth to its story. The visit lasts about two hours and is free, making it an accessible highlight.

Classic Gondola Ride with Danieli

No trip to Venice feels complete without a gondola ride. The tour includes a one-hour navigation through the city’s canals aboard a traditional gondola operated by Gondola Danieli. This experience offers a perspective on Venice’s waterways that is both romantic and practical, revealing hidden alleys, bridges, and scenic views. The cost of the gondola ride is included in the tour price, providing excellent value.

Logistics, Group Size, and Booking Details

This private tour ensures you avoid the crowds often associated with group excursions. The group size is limited to your booking, allowing for personalized attention from the professional guide. The tour is booked an average of 74 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. The price per person is around $1,164, which covers all major stops, transport, hotel stay in Venice, and the Venice Access Fee—a mandatory fee included in the price.

The tour begins at 6:30 am in Rome, with hotel pickup and drop-off included in the package. In Venice, hotel accommodation is part of the package, reducing the hassle of additional arrangements. The tour operates most days, with confirmation upon booking and the option for child seats on request.

Practical Considerations and Limitations

While the tour offers an extensive visit in a short time, it requires an early start and involves transfers by train. The schedule is packed, which suits those who want a rundown but might feel rushed for those seeking a more relaxed experience. The tour does not include food or drinks, so travelers should plan accordingly for meals or snacks during the day.

A notable negative in some reviews is the need to adjust plans on short notice, such as changing meeting times. This indicates that timing and organization are crucial for a smooth experience. The tour’s focus on key sights compensates for the limited time but may mean skipping some lesser-known locations.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This 2-day private Venice trip from Rome is ideal for travelers seeking a guided, personalized experience of Venice’s top attractions. It suits those who want convenience and comfort, with hotel stays and train transport included. The tour is perfect for first-time visitors who want a well-organized overview without feeling overwhelmed by crowds.

However, those looking for a more leisurely exploration or a culinary-focused visit might find the schedule a bit tight. The main advantages are the guided insights, avoiding crowds, and the comprehensive coverage of Venice’s most famous sights in just two days.

This private tour offers a well-structured, guided exploration of Venice’s most celebrated sites, all within a two-day window from Rome. The train transport, hotel in Venice, and included gondola ride provide great value and convenience. Its personalized approach helps travelers avoid the usual crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience.

While the itinerary is packed, it captures Venice’s essence—its architecture, bridges, and waterways—and provides insights from knowledgeable guides. The early start and busy schedule may not suit everyone, but for those eager to cover major highlights efficiently, this tour delivers a memorable visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, child seats are available on request, making it accessible for families.

How much does the gondola ride cost?
The gondola ride is included in the tour price, providing good value.

What is the price per person?
Approximately $1,164, covering all major activities, transport, and accommodation.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at P.za della Repubblica in Rome and ends back at the same meeting point.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan accordingly.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 74 days in advance for better availability.

What is the tour duration?
It spans approximately two days, with early starts and organized schedules.

Is this a group or private experience?
It’s a private tour, ensuring only your group participates.

What are the main stops on this tour?
Key stops include Grand Canal, Piazza San Marco, Rialto Bridge, Santa Maria della Salute, Ponte dell’Accademia, Scala Contarini del Bovolo, and a gondola ride.

Can the itinerary be customized?
Since it’s a private tour, customization options may be available upon request during booking.

What is the cancellation policy?
Full refunds are available if canceled at least 6 days in advance.