Private Venice Tour with a Local, Highlights & Hidden Gems, 100% Personalised

Discover Venice Through a Private, Fully Personalized Tour

This private Venice tour with a local guide offers a unique way to experience the city, priced at $126.12 per person. Lasting between 2 to 8 hours, it caters to those who want a flexible, customized exploration of both the famous landmarks and lesser-known spots. The tour is designed for small groups or private parties, ensuring a personalized experience that can adapt to your interests and pace.

What makes this tour stand out is its focus on off-the-beaten-path locations alongside Venice’s renowned sights. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who prefer a more intimate, authentic encounter with the city rather than crowded tourist routes. The tour has earned a solid 4.5-star rating based on 14 reviews, with 93% recommending it, and it is most often booked 76 days in advance. A key feature is the flexible itinerary, which is shaped by your preferences through a pre-tour questionnaire and direct communication with your guide.

Key Points

• Personalized experience tailored to your interests and pace
• Private tour for your group, avoiding crowds
• Covers both main highlights and hidden Venice spots
• Flexible timing and hotel pickup available upon request
• Duration varies from 2 to 8 hours, allowing for a relaxed exploration
• Insider tips and storytelling from a passionate local guide

Starting Point in Venice’s Cannaregio District

The tour begins at the Palazzo SoranzoS. Polo in the Cannaregio neighborhood. This location is close to public transportation options and serves as a convenient meeting spot. The starting point sets the tone for the experience—an intimate, less touristy part of Venice, often overlooked by visitors focused on San Marco.

From here, the guide will coordinate with the group to craft a route that aligns with your interests. Whether you’re drawn to quiet canals, historic squares, or local neighborhoods, the starting location offers easy access to Venice’s more tranquil corners. The tour’s personalized nature means the route can be adjusted at any time to suit your preferences.

Exploring the Basilica in Cannaregio’s Hidden Church

One of the first stops is an all-marble Renaissance church tucked away in Cannaregio, described as the “jewel box of Venice.” This intimate church impresses with its stunning architecture and interior detail. The guide shares stories and legends that highlight its significance, offering a glimpse into Venice’s artistic and spiritual heritage.

This stop is ideal for visitors interested in architectural beauty and less crowded religious sites. Since it’s away from the typical tourist flow, it allows for a more relaxed appreciation of Venice’s spiritual landmarks.

Discovering Moorish Statues in a Historic Square

Next, the tour takes you to a quiet square where statues of Moorish merchants stand as silent witnesses to Venice’s historic connections with the East. The guide explains the Arabic influences woven into the neighborhood’s history. This spot reveals the diverse cultural ties that Venice built over centuries and offers a peaceful setting away from throngs of travelers.

This stop emphasizes the historical links between Venice and the wider world, providing a deeper understanding of the city’s multicultural past.

The Last Remaining Bridge Without Railings

A highlight is visiting Venice’s last remaining bridge without railings, a rare sight even for residents. This photogenic bridge offers a glimpse into Venice’s earlier days, when bridges opened directly onto the water. It’s a perfect spot for photos and reflection on the city’s maritime architecture.

This location is particularly appealing for those interested in Venice’s engineering history and authentic photo opportunities. Its rarity makes it a distinctive highlight of the tour.

A Tranquil Monastery Courtyard in Castello

Wandering through the Castello district, the guide leads to a hidden monastery courtyard—a peaceful retreat that locals visit to escape the crowds. The stories shared here illuminate the spiritual and architectural significance of Venice’s monastic life. The calm atmosphere makes it an excellent place for quiet contemplation or a moment to appreciate Venice’s religious heritage.

This stop is well-suited for visitors seeking serene, authentic spaces away from bustling tourist routes.

Secret Canal Path to a Picturesque Pier

Continuing along a secret canal-side path, the tour reaches a little-known pier with stunning views of the Rialto Bridge. This off-the-beaten-path stop allows for tranquil reflection and picture-taking in a less crowded setting. It’s a perfect place to appreciate Venice’s unique waterways from a quiet vantage point.

Travelers who enjoy photography and peaceful moments will find this stop particularly satisfying.

Waterfront Promenade with Lagoon Views

The tour then moves to a calm waterfront promenade, offering sweeping vistas across the lagoon towards San Michele and Murano. The guide shares insights into daily life in this residential neighborhood, which sees far fewer travelers. It’s ideal for a leisurely stroll while absorbing Venice’s living, breathing community.

This stop broadens understanding of Venice beyond the tourist-centric areas, highlighting local life and scenic lagoon views.

Logistics and Flexibility

The tour features central Venice hotel pickup upon request, adding convenience for travelers staying nearby. It is primarily a walking experience, with public transport used at additional cost if necessary. The duration and start times are flexible, enabling customization based on your schedule.

Since the tour is private and fully personalized, your guide will tailor the route before the experience begins. A short questionnaire helps determine your interests—be it history, food, hidden locations, or cultural insights—ensuring a tailored journey.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour includes a private walking experience with insider tips from a local guide, along with custom itinerary planning. It does not include food, drinks, attraction tickets, or transportation costs—these are paid separately if needed. Gratuities are optional.

The flexible durations and pre-tour questionnaire allow travelers to decide how long to explore and what to see, making it accessible for most interests and schedules.

Reviews and Guide Quality

The tour has received a high rating of 4.6 out of 5, with many praising the knowledgeable guides and personalized approach. One guide, Roberto, is noted for his expertise in Venice’s history and culture, and his ability to bring the city’s stories to life. Several reviews emphasize the insightfulness and friendly nature of the guides.

However, there is a note of caution: one review reports an experience where the guide “ghosted” the group, highlighting the importance of communication and reliability. The tour’s personalized nature and local insights make it a strong choice for those looking for an authentic, tailored Venice experience.

Pricing and Booking Considerations

At $126.12 per person, this tour offers good value for a private, customized experience. It is most often booked around 76 days in advance, so early planning is advisable. The tour can be tailored to fit various timeframes—from a short 2-hour walk to a full day exploring Venice’s lesser-known sites.

The option for central hotel pickup and the customizable itinerary make this a convenient choice for a personalized day in Venice.

Final Thoughts on the Venice Private Tour

This fully personalized tour from City Unscripted delivers an authentic look at Venice, blending main highlights with hidden gems. Its strength lies in the customization, the local guide’s expertise, and the opportunity to explore quieter, more intimate parts of the city.

Ideal for travelers who want to avoid crowds, learn about Venice’s history and culture, and see the city through a local’s eyes, this tour offers a flexible and memorable experience. While not including attractions or transport costs, the private, tailored approach ensures you get the most out of your visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all physical abilities?
Since it’s primarily a walking experience, comfortable footwear is recommended. The tour can be customized to favor less walking if needed.

Can I choose the start time?
Yes, the tour’s start time is flexible and can be selected during booking.

Is hotel pickup included?
Hotel pickup is available upon request, making it easier for travelers staying in Venice.

How long does the tour last?
The duration varies from 2 to 8 hours, depending on your preferences and schedule.

Are attraction tickets included?
No, tickets to attractions and food are not included and are paid separately if you choose to visit specific sites.

Can this tour accommodate special interests?
Yes, the pre-tour questionnaire helps tailor the route based on your interests, whether they’re history, local life, or hidden spots.

What is the guide’s level of knowledge?
Guides are experienced and knowledgeable, capable of sharing both historical insights and contemporary culture.

Is this tour private or group?
It is a private tour, meaning only your group participates, ensuring exclusivity.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended; further suggestions will be provided by your guide.

How do I book this tour?
Booking can be done online, with most travelers reserving about 76 days in advance for best availability.